Office Policies
Your First Visit
We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to our office. Your initial appointment will consist of a thorough examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. During the initial examination for each patient, we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to ask questions as well.
- Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
- Is treatment needed now or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
- What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
- Do any primary or permanent teeth need to be removed?
- How long will treatment take?
- How much will it cost?
- What are my payment options?
- While we can often answer these general questions about treatment during the initial examination, we may need to address specific areas after careful analysis of the diagnostic records. We feel it is important to analyze each patient's specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction.
We know your time is valuable, so we give patients the opportunity to start treatment the same day. This allows you to do two appointments the same day: the initial exam and the diagnostic records. The records include X-rays, photos, and impressions, as needed, for study models. These diagnostic records are necessary to confirm the prescribed treatment plan. If this may be of interest to you, please come prepared to fill out paperwork, make an initial payment, and to spend about an hour with us.
Consultation
After the doctor has evaluated your records, we discuss your treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your particular case. You will get a copy of your orthodontic records and treatment plan with a step-by-step description of your treatment. A copy will also be provided to your dentist.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes one hour. You'll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 10 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 10 to 30 minutes. Our regular office hours are Monday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and Friday 7 a.m.–12 p.m. 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 is difficult to reschedule you since most appointments are made 4 to 10 weeks in advance.
Payment & Office Policies
Cost
It is our mission to provide you with affordable, high-quality treatment that fits your budget! We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. Please ask us about financing options, credit card payments, flex spending accounts, and bank drafts. We thoroughly explain your options, so that we can accommodate your needs.
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.
- We have no money down (CareCredit) and no interest payment options (Electronic Debit)
- For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, MASTERCARD, and AMERICAN EXPRESS
Insurance
If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from regular dental insurance. Remember that insurance policies vary, and we will review your insurance to determine the appropriate course of action. Once treatment has started, we will file your claims.
Please remember that orthodontic insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If, during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for all charges.
CareCredit®
CareCredit, a GE Money Company, gives you convenient payment options so you can get the procedure you want, when you want it.
