We are always excited about meeting new patients at their first visit to our office. Your initial appointment will consist of a thorough examination and a discussion of any orthodontic problems that warrant treatment at the present time. This important visit will give us insight into your orthodontic tendencies, which are often related to family history, habits and your general dental development. In the absence of a pressing orthodontic treatment need, the patient will typically be placed on observation and recalled periodically to monitor future dental development. Both the inital consultation and recall appointments are complimentary. Initiating any necessary treatment at the appropriate time as well as in a timely fashion are key to orthodontic success for more difficult cases. Providing these services without fee lowers barriers so that all can receive crucial screening and follow-up appointments.
During the initial examination of each patient, we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. We encourage you to ask questions during the exam as well. This is your time, so feel free to pick our brains!
- Is there a condition in need oforthodontic correction?
- If so, 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 baby or permanent teeth need to be removed?
- How long will treatment take?
- How much will treatment cost?
- Am I covered by orthodontic insurance and if so, how much will it cover?
- What are my payment options?
While we can often give general answers to all of these treatment questions during the initial examination, we will ony be able to give definitive answers after careful analysis of orthodontic diagnostic records. We feel it is important to carefully analyze each patient's specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction. Please assist us by providing the following information, if available, at the time of your new patient exam visit:
- Any panoramic x-ray(s) taken within the past year.
- If you think you may have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance card. By providing this information at the first visit, we will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of your costs.
- Paperwork,orthodontic diagnostic records and any questions you may have from any previous orthodontic treatment or consultations.
We know your time is valuable, so to expedite treatment, we may also reserve time following the exam for diagnostic records. The records include x-rays, photos and impressions for study models, all of which are necessary for developing an appropriate treatment plan. This additional appointment, if necessary, will last approximately thirty minutes. It can also be scheduled for another day, if time does not permit. Following the records appointment, a consultation appointment to discuss definitive treatment options, time frames and financial arrangements will be made. We insist that our patients leave our office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, their treatment plan (or plan options) and how long treatment is expected to take, so that they can be informed consumers and assist us in formulating a plan that correctly matches their treatment goals, finances and timeframe.
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