Getting Started
We’re with you every step of the way
First Visit
Your initial appointment typically takes about one hour. The visit will consist of a thorough examination and discussion of potential treatment options. To be as precise as possible, we may also request X rays, intra-oral photographs, and a digital scan to diagnose and create the appropriate treatment plan for each patient. We will also determine the approximate treatment time required for each patient receiving treatment. At the end of your appointment, we will determine the cost of treatment. This will include any insurance benefits, and in-house interest free financing options that are popular.
Insurance / Financing
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. Fees vary with each case, so we will be happy to work out a convenient payment schedule to suit your needs. Typical arrangements include an initial down payment and monthly installments with no financing charge.
We take most all insurance plans. At the first appointment, we will check your insurance plan, and help you determine how much orthodontic coverage your plan will provide. Since there is such a wide variety of plans, we will customize a payment plan that includes your insurance benefit to help make orthodontic treatment as affordable as possible.
Patient Forms
Emergencies
There are very few true orthodontic emergencies. Most problems can be remedied at home. However, if you have a situation that you cannot resolve on your own, call us as soon as possible, so we can fit you in for a repair appointment. In the meantime, the tips below can help resolve minor problems you may encounter during your orthodontic treatment.
Sore Teeth
Sore teeth are common during orthodontic treatments. Typically, the soreness is light to moderate and will only last two or three days. If you experience soreness that last more than three days, please call our office as soon as possible and we will be happy to make an adjustment to help make you more comfortable. If your teeth are not sore, it doesn’t mean your teeth are not moving. As treatment progresses, you will experience less soreness after each visit which is normal.
Wire Irritation
If your braces cause an irritation… try moving the wire away from the irritated area with a pencil eraser. If the wire will not move, try covering the end of it with a small piece of dental wax. If the wire is painful, you can cut it with a nail clipper or scissors that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Make sure you retrieve the small clipping and be careful not to swallow it.
Loose Bracket
If the main wire or a bracket comes loose… First, call our office to see if the bracket needs to be re-fitted. If you have a situation where you must cut the wire or slide a bracket off the wire, you may use fingernail clippers that have been washed and sterilized in alcohol. Please call our office on the next business day to schedule a repair appointment.
Lost Separator
If a separator comes out… Call our office to see if it needs to be replaced. Some patients may lose a separator during treatment, which is common.