Your
First Visit
We usually allow 30 minutes for the first visit. During this
appointment a thorough medical and dental history will be
taken and a comprehensive examination of the teeth, jaws and
muscles of the face will be done. An orthodontic X-Ray of
the face and teeth will also be taken. During this examination
the doctors will determine:
- Whether orthodontic treatment is necessary
- If so, when is the best time to start
- The estimated length and cost of treatment
There is no charge for this orthodontic examination or X-ray.
If orthodontic treatment is needed, financial arrangements
can be made at this time. We will be happy to accept assignment
of insurance benefits. If necessary, or if desired, at the
next appointment, the Doctors will present the planned treatment
or any changes to the original treatment plan since the initial
visit.
Questions are encouraged at any time because it is very important
to understand your specific orthodontic treatment.
Cost
Fees will be quoted in advance of any actual work being performed.
Our fees are typically all-inclusive, which means that everything
we do from the start is included.*
The cost for orthodontic treatment varies from patient to
patient. More difficult cases require more treatment time
and more complicated appliances. The orthodontist determines
the extent of the treatment at the initial visit to the office.
The orthodontic problem and how it will be corrected will
be thoroughly explained to you by the orthodontist during
this time.
In an attempt to make the treatment more affordable, various
payment arrangements may be offered. A down payment is required
and the balance of the fee may be spread out into monthly
payments.
Insurance
Today, many insurance companies cover part of the cost of
orthodontic treatment. We accept most major insurances and
will be happy to process the required forms and assist you
in obtaining the maximum allowable benefit. If you have a
Cafeteria or FLEX plan with your current employer, these plans
may enable you to pay part of your orthodontic expenses with
pre-tax dollars.
Orthodontic insurance can be complicated to understand. We
will make every effort to assist you in understanding your
benefits. However, please remember that the contract for your
insurance is between you and your insurance company, and our
office has no part in determining your benefits. The assistance
we provide to you is strictly a courtesy. It is to your advantage
to discuss any questions you have about your benefits with
your benefits coordinator at your place of employment or call
the insurance company directly.
It is important to maintain your orthodontic insurance during
the entire orthodontic treatment in order to receive the maximum
coverage from your existing policy. If insurance is dropped
or discontinued during treatment, it is the patient’s
responsibility to pay the remaining balance for your orthodontic
expenses, including the portion no longer covered by insurance.
Financial Agreements:
We offer a number of flexible payment options and special
payment plans to make things easier on you. This includes
VISA, MasterCard, AMEX, DISCOVER and a third party financing
option. Please discuss these options with your Financial Coordinator.
* Poor fitting appliances due to fabrication defects will
be replaced free of charge. There will be a minimal charge
to replace lost, stolen, broken or neglected appliances.
| Print
Forms |
Please help us be prepared for your first appointment
by completing this Patient Information and Medical History.
Download and print the forms, fill them in, and fax
them to our office prior to your visit or bring them
with you to your first appointment.
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