First Orthodontic Consultation in Clermont-Ferrand

The OrthoClermont practice of Dr François Normand in Clermont-Ferrand welcomes new patients for a comprehensive initial orthodontic consultation. This first appointment is a fundamental step: it allows for an accurate diagnosis, an assessment of the patient's actual needs, and a joint decision on the best therapeutic approach. Whether you are consulting for your child, a teenager or yourself as an adult, this initial consultation follows a rigorous protocol to ensure nothing is overlooked.

When should you see an orthodontist for the first time?

Professional dental associations recommend a first orthodontic assessment around the age of 6–7, when the first permanent teeth appear. At this age, the orthodontist can detect early abnormalities in jaw growth, tooth eruption problems or harmful functional habits (mouth breathing, thumb sucking, atypical swallowing). Early intervention can sometimes prevent the need for more extensive treatment during adolescence.

For teenagers, the consultation is generally prompted by visible dental crowding, overlapping teeth, a jaw discrepancy or an aesthetic concern. Most orthodontic treatments begin between 11 and 14, when the permanent dentition is nearly complete.

For adults, there is no age limit. An increasing number of patients in their 30s, 40s and 50s seek treatment to improve dental alignment or correct functional problems. Current techniques, particularly clear aligners, make treatment discreet and compatible with professional life.

How to book an appointment

You can contact the OrthoClermont practice by phone on 04 23 32 47 37 to schedule your first appointment. No referral from your dentist is required: you can consult an orthodontist directly. However, if your dentist has referred you to the practice, please bring their letter or any X-rays to your visit.

Please allow approximately one hour for this first consultation. This time is necessary to carry out a complete assessment and to take the time to discuss your expectations and questions.

What happens during the first consultation

The initial consultation at OrthoClermont follows a multi-step protocol designed to establish a comprehensive and precise diagnosis.

• Welcome and medical questionnaire: The team welcomes you and provides a health questionnaire to complete. This information is essential for adapting treatment to your general health.
• Discussion with the practitioner: Dr François Normand listens to your concerns: What brings you in? Do you have any particular constraints (professional, aesthetic, sporting)? This dialogue is fundamental to guiding treatment.
• Clinical examination: Visual examination and palpation of the teeth, gums and jaw joints. The practitioner assesses the occlusion (how the upper and lower teeth fit together), facial symmetry and the quality of the periodontal tissues.
• X-rays: A panoramic X-ray provides a view of all the teeth, roots and bone structures. A lateral cephalometric X-ray completes the assessment by showing the relationship between the jaws and skull. These are taken on-site at the practice.
• Digital scan: A 3D intra-oral scan captures the precise shape of your dental arches, replacing traditional alginate impressions with superior accuracy and comfort.
• Clinical photographs: Photos of the face and dentition are taken to document the initial situation and serve as a reference throughout treatment.

The treatment plan

Once the complete assessment has been carried out, Dr François Normand analyses all the data collected to establish a precise diagnosis. At a second appointment, or sometimes during the first consultation if the case allows, the practitioner presents a detailed analysis: the exact nature of the problem, the treatment objectives, the various therapeutic options available and their estimated duration.

For each option, the advantages, limitations and cost are clearly presented. Dr François Normand recommends the technique best suited to your situation, but the final decision is yours. A comprehensive, detailed quote is always provided, which you can submit to your insurance provider to determine your out-of-pocket costs.

Documents to bring

• Health insurance card and proof of coverage
• Supplementary health insurance details
• Recent dental X-rays if you have any (panoramic, CT scan)
• Referral letter from your dentist if applicable
• Health record for children and teenagers
• List of current medications if applicable

Frequently asked questions about the first consultation

Is the first consultation free?

The initial consultation is a medical procedure that includes a comprehensive clinical examination and X-rays. It is covered by national health insurance and your supplementary health insurance under standard conditions. The fee is communicated when you book your appointment.

My child is 5, is it too early to consult?

The first assessment is recommended around 6–7, but it is never too early to seek advice if you notice a problem: mouth breathing, a jaw that is too far forward or back, difficulties chewing. Dr François Normand will advise whether monitoring or early intervention is needed.

Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?

No referral is required. You can book an appointment directly with OrthoClermont on 04 23 32 47 37. A letter from your dentist is appreciated but not mandatory.

How many appointments before treatment begins?

Generally, two appointments are sufficient: the initial consultation (complete assessment) and the presentation of the treatment plan with the quote. Treatment can then begin once any necessary prior approval has been obtained and the quote accepted.