Getting Started


First visit decorative image

Your First Appointment


We are always excited to meet new patients! During this visit, we will help you get acquainted with our office and learn about your orthodontic treatment. Our friendly staff at the front desk can help you with any questions you may have regarding your registration and will also make a copy of your insurance card to keep on record. Our treatment coordinator, Teri, will take you to our consultation room, where you will meet with Dr. Sydlewski. We pride ourselves on educating our patients each step of the way, and the initial exam is the start of that process.

Prior to meeting with Dr. Sydlewski, we take photos and any necessary x-rays to determine if treatment is necessary.


After careful examination, Dr. Sydlewski will discuss one of the following with you:


  • Treatment is indicated now
  • Treatment is not needed
  • Treatment is indicated; however, Dr. Sydlewski feels that treatment should be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption, or other factors are monitored and reconciled. In this case, you will be placed on observation and we will closely monitor your condition through regular examinations.

If Dr. Sydlewski feels you are ready for treatment, we will then get started on complete diagnostic records.

Diagnostic records are made to determine the best course of treatment and typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth, and X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care. We will provide a complete clinical diagnosis regarding the nature of the problem, a written summary of the findings and a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals and estimated fees. We encourage questions from both the patient and the parent, and as such, we provide ample time to answer your questions.

Dr. Sydlewski has set aside one hour for your visit with NO FEE for this initial exam/consultation. So that we may continue offering this as a COURTESY visit, please contact the office at least 24 hours in advance should you need to reschedule.


Beginning Your Orthodontic Treatment


Because the initial appointment to begin treatment with braces or other orthodontic appliances can take 1-2 hours, we prefer to schedule these appointments in the morning when it is quiet to allow you to have Dr. Sydlewski’s undivided attention. 


Future Visits


Our use of cutting edge technology allows our patients to be seen at a 4 to 8 week interval with an average adjustment appointment length of only 20 to 30 minutes. These shorter appointments are typically scheduled in the afternoons to allow our office to accommodate as many after school appointments as possible. 

We look forward to seeing you and your child in the office and  to showing you how orthodontic care can enhance both dental health and overall wellness. We can't wait to see your smile!