Your First Visit
At the first visit to the orthodontist, information is gathered to determine the best course of treatment. The initial visit typically includes a medical/dental history, clinical examination; photos of the patient’s face and teeth, and a panoramic X-ray if indicated. The patient’s chief concern is evaluated, and treatment options are discussed. If the patient is ready for treatment, an appointment for diagnostic study records will be made.
Records Appointment
Our records include impressions of the upper and lower teeth and wax bites to determine jaw position. Our office utilizes state-of-the-art X-ray imaging. Conebeam CT scans are used to evaluate the dental structures as well as the temporomandibular joints (TMJs). If indicated, Itero Digital Impressions are used to capture the teeth and the occlusion (bite). This information is used to determine a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
Consultation
After the doctor has evaluated your records, we discuss your treatment with you in detail. We will also work with you to establish the most convenient financial arrangements for your particular case.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. You’ll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. Our regular office hours are Monday to Friday from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Patients are seen by appointment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately. Cancel only if it is an emergency. It may be difficult to reschedule you since most appointments are made 4 to 8 weeks in advance.
Payment & Office Policies
Cost
The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. We have payment plans to suit different budgets. We also accept assignment from most insurance plans, and file the necessary papers to the insurance company. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.
Fees
In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established this financial policy:
- If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount. (If you have insurance,
we will offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee that will not be covered by insurance.)
- To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a
period of months.
- For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, MASTERCARD, DISCOVER, and DEBIT.
- In cases of serious delinquency, treatment will be discontinued, although we will make every effort to
accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.
- Payments can be extended over a period of months interest free.
Insurance
If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. We do accept most insurance plans; however, professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to an insurance company. Thus, the insurance company is responsible to the patient and the patient is responsible to the doctor. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.