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As we continue to adjust to the changes brought about by the outbreak of COVID-19, things can get overwhelming. Every day we’re faced with new information and with business continuing to close and stay-at-home orders being put in place, there’s no doubt our lives are looking a little different. If you’re currently in orthodontic treatment you might be beginning to wonder how these changes will affect your progress. Or maybe you were just looking to start your smile transformation, and now you’re worried that’s no longer possible. If this sounds like something you can relate to, we have great news! Here’s your guide to virtual visits and consultations!
Thanks to today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to stay connected, allowing us to be there for you! Even though our office is closed, we’re still available to address all of your orthodontic needs. We’re here to help our current patients keep their current treatment, while also offering virtual consultations for those looking to get started with orthodontic treatment! To find out more about virtual consultations and keeping up your smile from home, keep reading below!
How do virtual consultations work?
Virtual consultations are a relatively new resource that has emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of this, many people may not be sure how virtual visits are conducted or what they should expect. Thankfully, the process is very user-friendly! Your first step is to visit our virtual consultations page. From there, a pop-up window will prompt you through instructions on submitting photos for review and any other relevant information. Then your part is finished! Dr. Pakravan and our team will go over your photos and any notes you’ve included and get back to you with your next steps.
Tips for taking great photos
For many of our patients, the idea of submitting photos is the biggest hindrance to pursuing virtual treatment. This doesn’t have to be the case! Our easy-to-follow process will show you the exact photos you should send in. If you wear elastics as a part of your orthodontic treatment, you should have them in for your photos. This will allow Dr. Pakravan to make sure you’re wearing them correctly and provide any feedback if necessary. If you’re out of elastics, just let us know, and we’ll be happy to send you some more!
Here are some additional tips to help you take a great photo:
- Have a family member take your photos or use the self-timer on your camera.
- Turn your flash on.
- Do your best to only photograph the teeth and mouth area.
- Try to keep the muscles around your mouth relaxed.
- Keep your teeth together and bite down hard. This is the best way to make sure the pictures are accurate.
Why virtual consultations are important
As we continue to deal with the COVID-19 health crisis, it’s become necessary for orthodontists to find new and innovative ways to continue caring for their patients. By implementing virtual services, Dr. Pakravan is able to keep in touch with current patients while continuing to meet the orthodontic needs of our community. Whether you’re maintaining current treatment or just getting started, virtual consultations are the perfect way to prioritize your smile, even while practicing social distancing.
For many of our current patients, virtual visits can both help us keep your orthodontic treatment progressing, as well as reduce delays when we are able to resume routine appointments, and many patients want to be seen. For patients wearing Invisalign, a Motion Appliance with rubber bands, or many other orthodontic appliances, having a virtual visit can allow us to guide you as our partner in care to ensure continuing progress toward your smile transformation without having to bring you into the office!
Virtual consultations are also beneficial in the case of an orthodontic emergency. Accidents happen and it can be stressful if you can’t see your doctor right away. If you’re not sure your situation qualifies as an orthodontic emergency, a virtual consultation can eliminate the guesswork. Being able to contact Dr. Pakravan about what you’re experiencing will allow us to remedy your problem quickly and efficiently.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort or have questions regarding your treatment plan, a virtual visit can also be helpful. In many cases, our team is able to review and assess any damage and provide a solution with a virtual consultation alone. We can walk you through home remedies for a number of minor issues, from irritation to loose brackets. We’ll also be able to determine if you would require an in-office visit to treat an urgent problem. If so, we’ll set up a time with minimal staff present to ensure everyone’s health and safety.
How you can avoid emergencies
While our office is closed in response to the outbreak of COVID-19, it’s important to be extra careful to avoid orthodontic emergencies. If you’re a current patient, be sure to follow every recommendation put in place by Dr. Pakravan to care for your teeth and appliances. This includes:
- Avoiding sticky and crunchy foods that can damage your braces
- Brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time
- Flossing every night before bed
- Wearing a mouthguard when participating in any at-home sports
- Informing us of any broken or damaged appliances – we will be scheduling repairs in the order they happened as soon as possible
- Keeping all Invisalign aligners and retainers clean and safely stored when you’re not wearing them
Taking extra steps to care for your teeth and appliances will help protect your smile investment long-term. Being extra careful to avoid any accidents now will be worth it when you get your braces removed and see the smile you’ve always dreamed of!
Care for your smile from the comfort of your home with Windy City Orthodontics
At Windy City Orthodontics, our top priority is providing you with the best possible care, even from a distance. Thanks to virtual consultations, you can still get started on your smile transformation while doing your part to flatten the curve. Whether you’re already a member of the Windy City Orthodontics family or are just looking to get started, our team is here to help find the treatment that’s the best fit for you! It’s our goal to remain accessible while keeping you, your family, and our team safe, healthy, and smiling.
If you’re ready to take the next steps to the smile you’ve always dreamed of, contact our office and schedule your free virtual consultation!