Your First
Visit
 At the first visit to the orthodontist, diagnostic records
are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete
diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history,
clinical examination; 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.
Consultation
After the doctor has evaluated your records, we discuss your
treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your
particular case.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders,
etc.) usually takes from 30 minutes to one hour. You'll then
see us at regular intervals 6 to 10 weeks apart for an adjustment,
which takes 20 to 40 minutes.
Our regular office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM
to 5:30 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 6 to 10 weeks in advance.
Payment &
Office Policies
Cost
The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's
problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options
before treatment begins. We have payment plans to suit different
budgets, including a no-down-payment option.
We will file the necessary papers to the insurance company.
We work hard to make orthodontics 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. (If you have insurance, we will
offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee
that will not be covered by insurance.)
- To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements
can be made to extend your payments over a period of months.
- For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, MASTERCARD and DISCOVER.
- In cases of serious delinquency, treatment will be discontinued,
although we will make every effort to accommodate patients
with temporary difficulties.
Insurance
If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage
you have available. The balance will be arranged for you to
pay (see above). 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. |
