EXAM

At the first visit to the orthodontist, information is gathered that will aid the orthodontist in assessing the need for treatment. This information includes a medical/ dental history, a clinical examination and brief consultation. Usually at this visit, the doctor will give a general idea regarding the type of treatment needed, and an estimate of the cost. The final decisions regarding cost and treatment will be made following evaluation of diagnostic records.

RECORDS

Diagnostic records are generally made subsequent to the exam 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. We normally send our patients to Wilson Radiographics for x-rays and photos, but take diagnostic study models within our office. This information is used to plan 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. Treatment length and cost will also be discussed if treatment is recommended.

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 10 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 10 to 40 minutes. Our regular office hours are:

• Monday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
• Tuesday and Thursday: 7:00am - 3:00pm
• Wednesday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
• Friday: 9:00am - 12:00pm

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 several weeks in advance.

PAYMENT AND 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 do not file insurance claims but are happy to assist with the forms. We also offer various payment options. 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 -- 4% if paid by cash or check.
• To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months.
• 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 fill out the necessary forms for your reimbursement (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.