At what age do you start seeing patients?
We suggest an initial screening at age 8. At this age, we can show the family what problems they may see in the next few years. For some problems, we can help with or without a short round of braces. We will recommend intervention so that treatment when they are older is significantly simpler or try to avoid surgical procedures when the child is older.
We would like to see all children no later than 10 years old. This doesn’t mean orthodontic treatment will be starting. We can help prepare the family for timing, finances, and scheduling in the future. We do NOT want families to wait until there are no more baby teeth. Waiting too long to be evaluated can also cause problems or make treatment longer or harder.
How long will the first visit take?
The first visit is usually an hour depending on the patient’s current situation or any concerns the doctor and family may have. We may just do a visual exam and explain the situation. We may suggest Records including x-rays, scan of the teeth, and a thorough evaluation with measurements.
Do you have any adult patients?
Absolutely. A growing percentage of our patients are adult, and according to the American Association of Orthodontics 1 in 4 patients are adults! Newer cosmetic appliances are making adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
An orthodontist is trained as a general dentist, but has had at least 2 more years of full-time training in orthodontics and graduated with a nationally accepted specialty certificate. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics.
Can I make all my appointments in the afternoon after school and late in the day?
In order to have early and late appointments available for the majority of patient appointments, some procedures need to be accomplished during the hours of 9 and 3. These typically are longer procedures in the morning, but sometimes scheduling during school or work hours is unavoidable. We will do our best to work with your schedules and accommodate your family needs.
Do you see patients for emergencies?
Yes, our contact information for an emergency is posted on the website. Feel free to visit our emergency care page for more information.
Can we make payments?
Yes. Whether or not you have insurance or a dental plan, we will structure a convenient payment plan that will allow you to pay for orthodontic services over a period of time that usually coincides with your treatment plan.
How do you handle insurance?
After verification of coverage, we will agree to bill and collect from an insurance carrier. However, we ask patients to understand that if coverage ceases or changes, the patient is still responsible for the agreed upon fee.
Do you take American Express, Master Card and/or Visa?
Yes, we accept all major credit cards.
Do you have direct debit?
Yes, we have arrangements for direct debit, charge card posting, as well as payments over the internet.
By patient request, we have auto-payment plans using a card or bank account. This makes payments exceptionally easy.
Do you charge interest?
No we do not.
Do you give family discounts?
There are discounts provided for multiple patients within the same family and full-time employees of: military, police, fire, ministry, and dental offices.
Do retainers need to be worn after braces?
Yes, our retainers are to be worn full-time for 2-4 weeks, then 12 hours per day for one year followed by nighttime wear indefinitely. We have patients practice their retainer(s) in the office and send home a thorough retainer information paper.
Why do teeth get crooked after wearing braces or aligners?
Teeth move throughout life whether you have worn braces or not. It is part of the natural aging process. This is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely to maintain your orthodontic results over lifetime.
