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; plaster study models of the teeth, 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 45 to 60 minutes. You'll then see us at regular intervals 6-12 weeks apart for an adjustment.  The days that we are in the office vary each month, Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 5 PM and 8AM to 4:30 PM on Fridays.  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 since most appointments are made 4 to 12 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 offer payment plans.   We also accept assignment from most insurance plans, and 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.) For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, MASTERCARD, AMERICAN EXPRESS 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. We ask that you assign your insurance benefit to us. 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.