Resources and Forms for Orthodontic New Patients

New Patient Exams

At your new patient exam, we will begin by taking digital photographs of your face and teeth. Dr. Carlyle will then do a thorough exam of your teeth, bite and oral tissues. After which, she will discuss the clinical findings and any areas of concern you may have. The doctor will then recommend treatment options and costs. Available payment options are determined during this visit.

Diagnostic Records and Consultation

If treatment is recommended at the new patient exam, complete orthodontic records are needed prior to the start of treatment. Records consist of orthodontic x-rays, and models of the teeth. If the individual case needs further study, a separate consultation will be scheduled to further discuss treatment options. A separate fee will be charged for the diagnostic records.

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.

Our regular office hours are Monday to Thursday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. 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.

Payment & Office Policies

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 have payment plans to suit different budgets, including a no-down-payment option. We also accept assignment from most insurance plans, and file the necessary papers to the insurance company. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.

Orthodontic Insurance

If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. We ask that you assign your insurance benefit to us. The balance will be arranged for you to pay. However if you change jobs or your employer changes insurance carriers your benefits may change. Therefore, it is very important that you let us know. We will help you utlize your orthodontic benefits in every way possible; from filing claims to handling communication with your insurance carrier on your behalf.

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. (If you have insurance, we’ll offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee that will not be covered by insurance.) To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months. – For your convenience, we accept payment by most major credit cards. – In cases of serious delinquency, treatment may be discontinued, although we will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.