|
|
|||||||||||||||||||||
| Initial examination and consultation We love seeing new patients and we are excited to talk to you about your orthodontic care. 
We have set aside special time during your first visit to get to know
you and discuss your concerns. Your first visit to our office is our
opportunity to provide you with a complimentary initial examination
and to evaluate you or your child's oral health. Dr. Powell will perform
a comprehensive orthodontic examination of your bite, facial contours,
and facial balance. He will utilize the latest technology including
a computer simulation to help diagnose each case and determine if
this is the right time to begin treatment, or if further growth and
development should occur. Dr. Powell will then explain various treatment
options, make recommendations and explain the reasons behind them.
Fees, insurance coverage, and payment options will also be discussed.
A variety of affordable payment plans, including coordination of insurance
benefits are offered.You will leave our office with a complete understanding of Dr. Powell's recommended treatment plan and all of the information you need to make an informed decision regarding treatment. Dr. Powell will answer any questions you may have. It is always our goal to make each and every visit to our practice the most rewarding and pleasant experience of your day. Records visit  Your next visit is the "records appointment," during which
diagnostic records are obtained to determine the best course of
treatment. This typically includes a panoramic radiograph,
cephalometric radiograph, facial and dental photographs, and impressions
that are utilized to fabricate plaster study models. Dr. Powell uses
these diagnostic records to create your customized treatment plan and to
track progress as your teeth move during the course of treatment.
Separators are typically placed in your mouth at the end of the records
visit.Separators are the first step toward your super smile. Small donut-shaped elastic spacers are placed between your back teeth to gently create enough space for us to place your molar bands. We will show you where and how many separators have been placed in your mouth. Brush your teeth as you normally do, but avoid flossing between your teeth where the separators are located. Please do not use toothpicks, chew gum, or eat anything sticky that might pull the separators out. When we first place the separators, your teeth may be sensitive, especially when you bite. Choose soft foods or foods that do not require a lot of chewing. To relieve the soreness take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed. The discomfort will go away in a few days. IMPORTANT! If you lose a separator, please call us so we can replace it. We need space for your next appointment to place your braces in the most comfortable way. Regular appointments In one week you will return and your initial appliances (braces, expander, etc.) will be delivered. This appointment takes 40 minutes. You will then see us at regular 6 week intervals for adjustments which will take approximately 20 minutes. Parents are always welcome to watch the treatment process. Parents are brought back following each visit into special mini-consult areas designed to answer any questions they may have and to provide you with all the orthodontic supplies needed to keep your progress moving smoothly. Communicating that we care is very important to us and you will find that we take the time to show you your treatment progress, what adjustments were made that day, and what to expect for future appointments. Treatment time Treatment time varies depending on growth and the severity of the problem. Patients grow at different rates and, consequently, respond to orthodontic treatment differently. Cooperation in wearing rubber bands (also called "elastics"), keeping your teeth clean, and taking care of your braces as prescribed will also influence the length of time you are in treatment. Early treatment time ranges from 3 to 9 months and treatment time with braces ranges from 6 months to 3 years. Financial and insurance information  Orthodontic treatment is a
significant expense for any family. We have payment plans to suit
different budgets. As a courtesy and service to our patients, we gladly
file and accept assignment of orthodontic insurance so you do not have
the pay the full amount. Please provide us with all the necessary
insurance information so we can process your claim. We work hard to
make orthodontics affordable.Convenient interest free payment plans we offer include:
Emergency care If you have a problem requiring emergency treatment please call us as early as possible during the day. Should you have an emergency after hours or on the weekend, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Powell at home. His emergency phone number is always available through the office. |
