What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Appointment

By Dr. Mike Seelig, DMD, MS – Shine Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics

Embarking on orthodontic treatment is an exciting step toward achieving a confident, healthy smile. Whether you’re visiting us in Gallatin or Hendersonville, knowing what to expect can help ease any nerves and make your first visit an enjoyable one. At Shine Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re proud to be a fully digital practice, meaning your entire experience from records to treatment planning is comfortable, efficient, and goop-free.

1. A Warm Welcome and a Tour of Our Digital Office

When you arrive, our friendly team will greet you and walk you through what makes our practice unique. We combine pediatric dentistry and orthodontics under one roof, making it easy for your family to get comprehensive care in a single visit.

You’ll quickly notice that we’re not your typical orthodontic office, our digital workflow eliminates the messy impressions and long wait times you may remember from the past. Everything we do is streamlined to make your experience easier, faster, and more precise.

2. Digital Records: No Goopy Impressions, Ever

Forget the uncomfortable trays filled with impression material. At Shine, we use an iTero® 3D digital scanner to capture precise images of your teeth and bite. This process takes just a few minutes and provides a highly accurate 3D model of your smile with no mess, no discomfort, and no retakes.

Our digital X-rays give Dr. Mike and his team a complete, detailed look at your teeth and jaw alignment while minimizing radiation exposure. Together, these digital tools help us craft the most effective, personalized treatment plan possible.

3. Seeing Your Future Smile Instantly

One of the most exciting parts of your first visit is our Instant Smile Simulation. Using iTero’s advanced software, we can show you what your smile could look like after treatment right there in the chair.

Whether you’re considering Invisalign® or traditional braces, this real-time preview helps you feel confident about your next steps and gives you a clear vision of your future results.

4. Personalized Consultation with Dr. Mike

After reviewing your scans and X-rays, Dr. Mike Seelig will sit down with you to discuss your goals and answer every question you have.

He’ll explain your options from Invisalign treatment to braces or early interceptive orthodontics, and walk you through the timeline, cost, and expected outcomes. We believe that education is key, and our team will make sure you feel informed and empowered to make the best choice for your smile.

5. A Treatment Plan That Fits Your Life

Our fully digital workflow doesn’t just make things faster, it makes them more customizable! By planning every step digitally, Dr. Mike can ensure precise tooth movement and better treatment outcomes.

For many patients, this means fewer in-office visits, faster turnaround on appliances, and more consistent progress tracking through tools like Invisalign’s virtual monitoring platform. Whether you’re a busy parent, working adult, or student, we make sure your orthodontic journey fits seamlessly into your schedule.

6. Flexible Financial Options

During your visit, we’ll review your insurance coverage options and walk you through flexible payment options to make treatment affordable. Our team is experienced in helping families maximize their benefits and minimize surprises.

7. Ready to Get Started?

By the end of your first appointment, you’ll have a complete understanding of your treatment options, timeline, cost, and you’ll even get a sneak peek at your future smile.

Most importantly, you’ll leave knowing that your smile is in expert hands at Shine, where modern technology meets compassionate, family-centered care.

Experience the Shine Difference

At Shine Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’ve reimagined what orthodontic care can be. Our digital-first approach ensures comfort, precision, and convenience from start to finish.

If you’re searching for a trusted orthodontist in Gallatin, TN or a Hendersonville orthodontist who values your time and your smile — we’d love to meet you.

📍Schedule your complimentary consultation today to see your smile simulation and discover why families across Sumner County are choosing Shine.

[Book Your Appointment →] https://shinepdo.com/get-started/