Office Policies
Mission Statement The goal of this practice is to provide the most professional and thorough orthodontic treatment in an atmosphere that is enjoyable and pleasant for our patients, parents and staff.
Your First Visit
At the first visit to the orthodontist, a new patient exam is performed. It is then determined if the patient is ready for treatment or if the patient should be placed on our recall program. If the patient is ready for treatment, diagnostic records are taken to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, digital iTero scan for digital models (instead of impressions), photos of the patient's face and teeth, and X-rays.
This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
Treatment Plan Consultation
After the doctor has evaluated your records, he discusses your treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your particular case. This is to ensure that you are comfortable with what is planned for you or your child.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you have your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) placed usually takes about one to two hours. Then you'll have regular appointments approximately every 4 to 8 weeks for an adjustment. Those appointments will be approximately 15 to 30 minutes long. Our regular office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00 AM to 8 PM. 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 8 weeks in advance.
Payment & Insurance Policies
Straight Facts About Orthodontic Costs
The cost of treatment depends on the case. Since each patient's problem is unique, the cost of the treatment is determined for each individual. The cost of treatment is broken down into a payment plan/fee schedule. This will consist of an initial payment followed by monthly payments. If you have orthodontic insurance, this will also be taken into consideration. You will be able to discuss cost and the fee schedule before treatment begins. We work hard to make orthodontics enjoyable and affordable.
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.
- To fit your individual needs, the fee schedule can be adjusted if necessary.
- In cases of serious delinquency, treatment can be discontinued, although we will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.
Insurance
Our office participates in multiple insurance plans. If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. Whenever possible, our office accepts the assignment of benefits from an insurance company to reduce the "out of pocket" cost for the patient or their parents. The balance will be arranged for you to pay (this will be discussed in detail at the treatment plan consultation). We will file the necessary paperwork to the insurance company. Professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to an insurance company. Thus, the insurance company is responsible to the patient and the patient is responsible to the doctor. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.
