We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to our office! Your initial consultation appointment will consist of a thorough examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. We dedicate an hour of time for this very important appointment. Specifically, the first 15-minute block allows us to finalize paperwork (i.e. patient medical history, insurance information, HIPAA form, etc.). The second 15-minute block is when we take photographs and perform the clinical orthodontic examination. We use the photographs during the third 15-minute block to discuss our findings and potential treatment plans for orthodontic correction. We also answer any questions you may have during this time. The last 15-minute block is to answer any remaining questions you may have and, if orthodontic treatment is recommended, we will then review multiple payment options that our practice offers. It is our goal is to help the patient and their family. Our payment options make orthodontic treatment affordable.
During the consultaion appointment for each patient, some of the questions we will address are as follows. 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 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 consultation appiontment, we may address other specific issues after careful analysis of the diagnostic records which are generally taken at a subsequent appointment. These records include a panoramic x-ray, a cephalometric x-ray and models of the teeth. We feel it is important to analyze each patient's specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results.
We insist that our patients leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment will consist of and an estimate of how long it will take. Also, we will answer any additional questions you may have.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:
- Any panoramic X-ray taken within the past six months.
- If you have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance card. By providing this information at the first visit, we will be able to give you detailed information regarding the benefit your provider may offer.
We know your time is valuable and we sincerely appreciate the time you are taking to meet with us!