 Your First Visit
We are always excited about meeting our new patients. We realize time is a valuable commodity and strive to give you the most convenient appointment time within days of your first phone call. For your convenience, we will be sending you a package of information, which will include a comprehensive health history, an office brochure and privacy notice, and some miscellaneous forms. If you prefer, you can download and print the appropriate forms from our website, fill them out, email them to us or bring them with you. If you have insurance coverage for orthodontic treatment, please bring the card with you.
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child should have an orthodontic examination at age seven. Therefore, if there is anyone else in the family you would like to be seen at the same time, please let us know.
Your first appointment is a simple clinical examination to discuss your concerns and determine your orthodontic needs. Dr. Radu will evaluate the alignment of your teeth and jaws, jaw joints and facial balance. If treatment is indicated, the next step is taking diagnostic records, which consist of specific X-rays, impressions of the teeth and photographs. These are used to develop an individualized treatment plan and to track the progress of tooth movement throughout the course of therapy.
A new patient exam usually lasts between 30-45 minutes. Should you decide to start treatment, we may be able to obtain the diagnostic records right away.
During this consultation appointment we will strive to answer a few basic questions that most patients and parents have, such as:
- Is orthodontic treatment indicated?
- When is the best time to begin treatment?
- What options are available, what are their pros and cons, and which option is the best one?
- How long will treatment last?
- How much will treatment cost?
- How much will my insurance pay?
- What financial arrangements are available?
After exploring all possible alternatives to help you understand all options, we'll recommend the approach that optimally addresses your concerns and results in a stable bite along with a great smile.
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