If you’re considering Invisalign® to straighten your teeth, your first appointment is a big step—and a surprisingly easy one. At Bethea Family Dentistry in Columbia, SC, Dr. Gary Bethea and his team make the process clear, comfortable, and personalized from day one. Here’s what you can expect when you walk through our doors.
Getting Acquainted
This isn’t a rushed consult or sales pitch. We take time to hear what’s on your mind: What do you want to change about your smile? What’s been bothering you—crowding, gaps, a bite that feels off? Dr. Bethea listens carefully and answers any initial questions you might have about Invisalign, timelines, or goals.
A Full Smile Check-Up
Before we talk trays or timelines, we want to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for treatment. We’ll examine your bite, look for signs of gum disease or decay, and take a few digital X-rays if needed. Invisalign works best when your smile is starting from a healthy foundation, and this exam sets the stage for success.
Digital Scans & Smile Simulation with ClinCheck®
No goopy impressions here. We’ll use a handheld scanner to create a quick, comfortable digital model of your teeth. That scan is then uploaded to Invisalign’s advanced ClinCheck® software, which allows us to map out how your teeth will move and—even better—preview how your smile could look once treatment is complete.
For many patients, seeing that simulation is the moment things click: they can picture the end result and feel excited to get started.
Discussing Whether Invisalign Is Right for You
Based on what we’ve found and what you’d like to achieve, Dr. Bethea will explain whether Invisalign is a strong match for your case. We’ll discuss alignment specifics—how much movement is needed, how long it might take, and any factors to consider (for example, if you have past dental work or a complex bite). If aligners won’t be the best fit, we’ll explain alternatives clearly so you don’t feel left wondering.
Tailoring Your Treatment Plan
Once your scan and evaluation are complete, Dr. Bethea builds a customized treatment plan that works for your specific needs and lifestyle. That includes:
- How many aligners you’ll need
- How long treatment is expected to last
- How often to change trays (typically every 1–2 weeks)
- When to come in for check-ins and adjustments
We also talk openly about your role: wearing your aligners 20–22 hours a day, removing them to eat and drink anything other than water, and keeping your teeth (and trays) clean.
What Happens Next
If Invisalign looks like a great fit for your smile, we’ll go ahead and order your aligners. They’re custom-made for you and usually arrive in just a few weeks. At your next visit, we’ll walk you through putting them in, what to expect those first few days, and how to track your progress.
And if Invisalign isn’t the right solution? No pressure—we’ll explore alternatives that might suit your goals better. This appointment is about giving you the information and confidence to decide what’s right for you.
Invisalign With Bethea Family Dentistry in Columbia
At Bethea Family Dentistry, we believe that a confident smile starts with feeling informed and supported. If you’re ready to explore Invisalign, we’re here to answer your questions and walk you through the process—step by step. Give us a call to schedule your consultation!