Our greatest goal is to give you the healthy, straight, and beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. We understand that choosing to receive orthodontic care is a big decision, and we respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way you look and feel.
Our practice will work with you every step of the way to make sure your orthodontic care is as rewarding as possible. We utilize the latest technology, and offer a variety of safe and gentle treatment options to give you the customized, individual care you deserve.
Getting Started
1) The Initial Exam
Your first visit to our office will be a comprehensive initial exam for you or your child. Dr. Don will carefully examine the teeth for a wide range of possible orthodontic problems, such as crowding, cross-bite, gaps, etc. Once he has a clear picture of the most likely course of treatment, we’ll discuss what type of treatment is necessary, how long it will take, and estimate how much it will cost. You’ll understand everything you need to know in order to decide whether to proceed with treatment.
2) The Records Appointment
After your initial exam, if you decide to proceed with treatment, records are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, study models of the teeth, photos of the patient’s face and teeth, and X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan that addresses the unique needs of each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
3) The Consult Appointment
After Dr. Don has thoroughly evaluated your diagnostic records, we’ll explain your treatment to you in detail, including specific costs for your particular case.
4) Getting Braces
After the records appointment, we’ll be ready to schedule the appointment to get your new appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) placed. Getting appliances placed usually takes one to two hours.
Regular Appointments
After that, you’ll see us at regular intervals four to eight weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes about 30 minutes.
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.
Visiting the dentist during orthodontic treatment
It is vital that you continue to visit your family dentist once every six months for teeth cleanings and routine dental checkups, even during your orthodontic treatment. If extra dental care is needed, we will be happy to coordinate with your family dentist to make sure you receive the best possible care.
