Do you charge for an initial visit?
No. As a courtesy to you and your family dentist, we will always discuss the feasibility of braces or tooth straightening without charging a fee for the initial consultation.
At what age do you start seeing patients?
As a rule of thumb, we like to evaluate young patients after the 6-year molars erupt and the front permanent teeth start to appear, usually between the ages of 6 and 8. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children be seen for the first time by age 7.
Why do you evaluate patients so young?
The purpose of early evaluation isn’t necessarily to begin treatment right away, but to inform and observe. At an early age, eventual needs may be identified and discussed. A small percentage of patients at this age may need to start treatment in some form, but it’s better to begin correction as early as possible in these cases. Habits are evaluated, medical issues are discussed and an observation schedule is arranged until the patient is ready to begin treatment.
How long will the first visit take?
The first visit can last anywhere between 30 minutes and an hour depending on the patient’s current situation or any concerns the doctor may have. We may just do a visual exam and explain the situation or we may suggest one or more X-rays and complete diagnostics including digital impressions of the teeth with photographs to document the current position.
Do you take patients transferring from out of town?
Yes we do. We handle a patient transferring into our office from another city just like a new patient. We gather complete diagnostic records to show the current status and propose treatment to complete the work that has been started.
Do you have any adult patients?
Absolutely. A growing percentage of our patients are adult, and according to the American Association of Orthodontics 1 in 4 patients are adults! Newer cosmetic appliances are making adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is trained as a general dentist, but has had at least 2 more years of full-time training in orthodontics and graduated with a nationally accepted specialty certificate. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics.
Can I make all my appointments in the afternoon after school and late in the day?
In order to have early and late appointments available for the majority of patient appointments, some procedures need to be accomplished during the hours of 9 and 3. These typically are longer procedures in the morning, but sometimes scheduling during school or work hours is unavoidable. We will do our best to work with your schedules and accommodate your family needs.
Do you see patients for emergencies?
Yes, our contact information for an emergency is posted on the website. Feel free to visit our emergency care page for more information.
Can we make payments?
Yes. Whether or not you have insurance or a dental plan, we will structure a convenient payment plan that will allow you to pay for orthodontic services over a period of time that usually coincides with your treatment plan.
How do you handle insurance?
After verification of coverage, we will agree to bill and collect from an insurance carrier. However, we ask patients to understand that if coverage ceases or changes, the patient is still responsible for the agreed upon fee.
Do you take American Express, Master Card and/or Visa?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards.
Do you have direct debit?
Yes, we have arrangements for direct debit, charge card posting, as well as payments over the internet.
Do you charge interest?
No we do not.
Do you give family discounts?
We have special programs and fees for multiple patients from the same family.
I need to be pre-medicated for the dentist. Do I need to take my medicine for the orthodontist?
Yes.
Do retainers need to be worn after braces?
Yes, retainers are worn full-time for about 3 months followed by nighttime wear indefinitely. The orthodontist will go over retainer wear after treatment
Why do teeth get crooked after wearing braces or aligners?
Teeth move throughout life whether you have worn braces or not. It is part of the natural aging process. This is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely to maintain your orthodontic results over lifetime.
