Your First Appointment
The initial visit allows us to learn about you and your orthodontic needs. In our office, every effort is made to meet your needs in a timely and caring manner. Each individual’s condition is unique and deserves personalized attention. Please anticipate an hour for this first appointment. Parents are encouraged to be present during the initial exam for minors.
During the initial exam, you can expect the following:
- Review of your concerns and goals
- Review of your medical/dental history
- Photos and specialized orthodontic x-ray(s)
- Dr. Sionit or Dr. Taylor will then conduct a thorough examination.
This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. The doctor will discuss the answers to the following questions:
- Is there an orthodontic problem? If so, what is it?
- Can it be corrected?
- When should it be corrected?
- How long will it take to correct it?
After the doctor has answered all questions, our treatment coordinator will explain the costs involved and possible payment options, and insurance benefits. In most cases, we can proceed with the necessary orthodontic records at the end of the consultation. Our treatment coordinator will help you make a follow-up visit to begin the process.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. You’ll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. 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.
Financial Considerations
The fees for treatment vary considerably and are based on the type of treatment and severity of the problem. Your treatment fee can only be estimated after an in depth consultation. Although we understand finances can be a concern for treatment, we do not want it to stand in the way of our achieving the smile and orthodontic care you deserve. Our treatment coordinator will work with you to design a payment plan around your needs and will assist in explaining any insurance coverage you may have. We directly bill insurances when possible and are preferred providers of most orthodontic insurance plans. If you have any questions about your coverage, please do not hesitate to call. From flexible monthly payments, to outside financing and help with your insurance, you’ll find our team eager to arrange a plan that fits your needs.
Insurance
If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. We accept all PPO insurance plans for your convenience. The balance will be arranged for you to pay. 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.