Our objective is to make sure your visits with us will be pleasant and informative. Your initial appointment will consist of an examination and a discussion of potential treatment options, and will take approximately one hour. This important visit will address the orthodontic needs of you or your child. A thorough explanation of the problem and possible treatment options will be discussed with you. We always schedule adequate time to completely answer all your questions. A written summary of our findings and recommendations will be provided to your family dentist. In addition, any 
questions regarding insurance or financial options will be discussed. One of three outcomes will be determined at this first visit:
- Treatment is not needed, no further visits necessary.
- Treatment will be needed in the future.
- Treatment is needed now.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:
- If you have dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.
- Completed patient registration forms.
If for some reason you cannot keep your appointment, please contact our office. By doing so you allow another patient to use that time as well as reschedule your appointment. If it is after hours, please leave your name and number and a brief message on our voicemail and we will return your call in the morning.
Diagnostic Records and Treatment Planning
If it is determined that treatment is needed; you will be scheduled for diagnostic records. These records usually consist of study models, diagnostic photographs, and orthodontic X-rays. Once these orthodontic records have been obtained, we will review them and determine an individualized treatment plan for your orthodontic needs. We will review your treatment plan with you, make financial arrangements, and set up visits for treatment to begin.
Successive Visits
Periodic visits are an important part of orthodontic treatment. Generally, we will want to see you every 6-8 weeks to check your progress and make adjustments to your braces. During this time, you will need to keep appointments, follow instructions, as well as practice good oral hygiene and proper nutrition. Also, continue to visit your dentist regularly. Once your braces are removed, retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt to the new teeth positions.
Length of Treatment
Braces may be on between 18 months and 30 months. Some cases may require a longer treatment period - depending on the age of the patient, the severity of the problem, and the degree of movement possible.
Dental Care
Before any orthodontic treatment, your family dentist should make certain that all cavities have been treated and the health of your gums and underlying bone are free of periodontal disease. Your family dentist should also schedule cleaning and cavity checkup visits during your orthodontic care. We would like to reinforce the need to keep your regular visits with your family dentist. We are an aid to your family dentist; not a replacement. Please contact our office if you have any questions.