EXAM
At the first visit to our office information is gathered that will aid the doctors in assessing
the need for orthodontic treatment. This information includes a medical/dental history, a clinical examination, and a brief consultation. At this visit the doctor will determine if treatment is indicated at this time. If treatment is indicated he will give a general idea regarding the type of treatment needed and will recommend diagnostic records.
RECORDS
Diagnostic records are generally made at the first visit to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth and x-rays. This information is used to design 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
At the consultation appointment the doctor will review the diagnostic information gathered from the records. If treatment is recommended the treatment plan will be discussed as well as treatment length and cost.
REGULAR APPOINTMENTS
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expander, etc.) usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. You will then likely be seen at regular intervals of 4 to 6 weeks for your "adjustment" which will usually take from 15 to 30 minutes. We typically reserve morning and late afternoon appointments for your brief monthly adjustments. Our longer appointments (i.e. placing braces and expanders) are reserved for less demanded times. We also allow for emergency appointments throughout the day. If you do need to cancel an appointment, please contact us immediately. Our regular office hours are normally Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm.
PAYMENT AND OFFICE POLICIES
Cost
Since the doctors develop individual treatment plans for each patient it is impossible to determine treatment fees prior to seeing the patient or over the phone. The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options at the consultation appointment.
Fees
Our office has established the following 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 on your portion of the fee that will not be covered by the insurance).
- To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months.
- In cases of serious delinquency, treatment may be discontinued although we will make every effort to accommodate with temporary difficulties.
- We accept Visa and Mastercard for your convenience.
Insurance
If you have orthodontic insurance we will take care of all of the necessary paperwork for you. Please send us all the necessary insurance information so that we can help you process the claim. Please be aware of the following insurance facts:
- Orthodontic insurance is a separate rider to dental insurance. Having dental insurance does not automatically mean that you have orthodontic insurance.
- Orthodontic coverage is usually different from your dental insurance. Most orthodontic insurance is 50% of the total fee up to a lifetime maximum.
- Orthodontic insurance is usually not paid in one lump sum.
ONLINE ACCOUNT ACCESS
To access your account and appointment information online, you need to register when you visit our office at your next appointment.
