With so many different treatment options, tools, and appointment types, beginning orthodontic treatment can sometimes feel like learning an entirely new subject in school! However, at Freedman & Haas Orthodontics, we believe in equipping you with the knowledge you need to feel well-informed and comfortable every step of the way on your orthodontic journey – and one question you might have is, “What is the pan-repo appointment?” If this sounds like you, keep reading to learn all about this important exam and how it will help you take the next step toward a straight and confident smile.
What is the Pan-Repo Appointment?
The panoramic radiographic appointment (pan-repo, for short) is a diagnostic tool that our team uses mid-way through the treatment process to determine if any adjustments to your treatment plan should be made moving forward. This comprehensive imaging session gives us a lot of information about how well your appliances have done to straighten your smile so far and how slight alterations might make the next half of treatment that much more efficient.
The Process
We’ll begin by taking X-rays and photos of your mouth, which will provide a complete view of the oral anatomy from the root of your teeth positioning to the underlying bone structure, before conducting a chairside oral exam. Essentially, we’re looking for three main checkpoints: 1) how parallel your teeth have become relative to each other, 2) the height of your teeth on both sides of the jaw, and 3) how well the teeth follow the curve of the lower lip from back to front. These guidelines will then help us determine whether repositioning a bracket or slightly altering the treatment plan will speed up the treatment process in the long run.
If we decide to move one or more brackets, we’ll remove the original bracket, clean it, and sandblast it so it is ready for reuse and reapplication. Then, we’ll apply the brackets just like we did at the beginning of the treatment.
Usually, the pan-repo appointment lasts about an hour – but this hour is key to helping you finish your treatment plan with success. Once this appointment is complete, the countdown to getting your braces off can truly begin, as most patients get their appliances removed about 9-12 months after the pan-repo assessment.
Why Is the Pan-Repo Necessary?
While not every orthodontic office conducts pan-repo appointments for their patients, the Freedman & Haas Orthodontics team believes that going this extra mile can be just the thing to improve your experience, both through speed and quality. This necessary step can truly make all the difference in a successful treatment plan, and we’ve seen it be the defining factor of hundreds of smiles.
Breakdown of Benefits
The pan-repo appointment is more than just a diagnostic tool; it’s a gateway to personalized orthodontic care. Here are some of the key benefits:
Precision in Treatment
The comprehensive view provided by the pan-Repo allows us to craft treatment plans with a high degree of precision. By understanding the intricate details of your oral anatomy, we can more accurately predict how different treatments will impact your overall oral health.
Early Detection
The panoramic images can reveal dental issues that might be in their early stages, such as emerging teeth misalignment, jawbone irregularities, or even potential cysts. Addressing these issues early can prevent more complex problems down the line.
Efficient Monitoring
As your treatment progresses, the pan-repo appointment can serve as a checkpoint. By comparing new images with previous ones, we can assess the effectiveness of the treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Safety
The pan-repo exam is non-invasive and uses low levels of radiation, ensuring patient safety while providing invaluable insights.
Comprehensive Care
Beyond just orthodontic treatments, the insights from the pan-Repo can be shared with your general dentist or other dental specialists, ensuring that all aspects of your oral health are considered and cared for.
What to Expect During Your pan-Repo Appointment
Walking into any medical or dental appointment with a clear understanding of what to expect can alleviate concerns and make the experience more comfortable. The pan-repo appointment at Freedman & Haas Orthodontics is designed to be straightforward and patient-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can anticipate:
Pre-Appointment Preparation
Before the actual imaging, our team will provide you with a brief overview of the procedure. Any jewelry, glasses, or metal objects that could interfere with the imaging will need to be removed. If you have any questions or concerns, this is the perfect time to voice them.
Positioning for the X-ray
You’ll be guided to the imaging area, where you’ll be positioned in front of the X-ray machine. It’s essential to remain still during the imaging process to ensure clear and accurate results. A chin rest and bite guide might be used to stabilize your head and align your teeth correctly.
The Imaging Process
The X-ray arm will rotate around your head, capturing images from various angles. This process is painless and will take only a few minutes. You might hear slight humming or buzzing sounds, which are entirely normal.
Post-Imaging Review
Once the images are captured, they’ll be processed and displayed on a computer screen. Our orthodontic team will review these images, ensuring they have all the necessary details for a comprehensive analysis. If any additional images are needed, they’ll be taken at this time.
Immediate Feedback
While a detailed analysis might take some time, our team can provide initial feedback based on the images. This can include observations about your jaw alignment, the positioning of your teeth, or any other notable findings.
Next Steps and Follow-Up
After the appointment, our team will delve deeper into the images, using them to craft or adjust your treatment plan. If needed, you may be scheduled for a follow-up appointment where these findings will be discussed in detail, and any recommended treatments will be presented.
All in all, the pan-repo appointment is a seamless and efficient process, ensuring that we have a panoramic view of your oral health to provide the best possible care.
Discover Your Smile Confidence at Freedman & Haas Orthodontics
Whether you’re prepping for your next pan-repo appointment or gearing up for debond day, your team of experts at Freedman & Haas Orthodontics will be beside you every step of the way. Your smile is a reflection of your confidence, and we can’t wait to make you see the beauty in yours!
If you’re ready to schedule your free consultation, it’s time to contact our office in Wellington or West Palm Beach to get started today!
