What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Visit
Choosing an orthodontist is a long-term commitment. Most treatment lasts a year or more, followed by years of retainer wear. Before you commit, it helps to know what the experience will be like, what it will cost, and how you’ll be supported after treatment ends. Here’s how Garlock Orthodontics handles each step.
Our office is at 6240 S. Main St., Suite 220, in Aurora. Dr. David Garlock and Dr. Logan Smith see patients Monday through Friday.
Your Free Orthodontic Consultation
Your first appointment is a free consultation. We spend it getting to know you, your goals, and what you want from treatment. The visit includes X-rays, photographs, and a digital scan of your teeth, so the doctor can recommend a plan based on your actual bite. See your first visit for more details.
We scan with the iTero intraoral scanner instead of traditional impression trays. It takes thousands of images in minutes, it’s more comfortable, and it lets us show you a 3D model of your teeth.
Personalized Treatment Plans From Two Orthodontists
Your plan comes from an orthodontist, not a template. Dr. Garlock trained at Saint Louis University after graduating at the top of his class from dental school, and he teaches other clinicians about Invisalign. Dr. Smith is a board-certified orthodontist who also earned his orthodontic certificate at Saint Louis University. Depending on your needs, your plan may include:
- Invisalign clear aligners
- Metal, ceramic, self-ligating, or LightForce braces
- Two-phase treatment for young children
- Supporting care such as TADs, TMJ treatment, or laser gum contouring
Orthodontic Financing and Insurance
Dr. Garlock believes finances shouldn’t stand in the way of a healthy smile. We offer:
- In-house 0% financing
- Plans ranging from low down payments to low monthly payments
- Help with insurance from a team that works with all insurance plans
We keep you informed about your finances, just as we do about your treatment. Read more on our orthodontic financing page.
Retainers and Retainer Insurance
Treatment doesn’t end when braces come off or you finish your last aligner. Custom retainers keep your teeth from drifting back, and our in-office 3D printing lets us make them from your digital model. We also offer Retainer Insurance, which gives you access to replacement retainers for up to six years after treatment, so a lost or broken retainer doesn’t put your results at risk.
Questions From Lakewood Patients
How long does the first visit take?
Plan enough time for records (X-rays, photos, and a scan) and a conversation with the doctor. Our team will give you a time estimate when you book.
What if I have questions during treatment?
Dr. Garlock makes himself available. You can call, text, or ask him in the office whenever questions come up.
Can my whole family be treated at the same office?
Yes. We treat children, teens, and adults.
Start With a Free Consultation
The best way to know what treatment will look like is to see it for your own teeth. Schedule your free consultation with Garlock Orthodontics.

