Get a Straight & Beautiful Smile
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. Our practice utilizes the latest technology and offers a variety of safe and gentle treatment options to give you the customized, individual care you deserve.
Your Initial Exam & Consultation
When you arrive for your first visit, you'll be greeted and given a tour of our office. We'll ask you a few questions about your medical and dental history and collect your insurance information.
You'll get a panoramic X-ray, as well as photos of your face and teeth. Dr. Swan will review these with you, and also examine your teeth and your bite. All this information will allow her to determine the best timing and course of treatment.
You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions about your proposed treatment, as well as view models and animations of the recommended techniques and appliances.
Our treatment coordinator will be available to discuss the cost of treatment, including payment options and any available insurance benefits. By the end of the initial examination, it is our goal for the patient and family to understand:
- Whether treatment is indicated or not
- The proposed treatment (or available treatment options)
- The recommended timing of treatment for the most efficient and effective results
- The length and cost of treatment
Starting Treatment
Patients who decide to proceed with treatment will require complete diagnostic records. This can often be completed at the first visit as well. In addition to the records from your initial exam, we'll take a cephalometric X-ray and take impressions of the teeth for plaster models. We use this information to formulate a complete diagnosis and custom treatment plan.
These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care. Occasionally, additional treatment needs will be discovered upon completion of records. In that case, we'll review any changes to the proposed treatment plan with you before placing appliances.
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 four to eight weeks apart for an adjustment, taking 15 to 30 minutes for your appointments.
We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you can't keep an appointment, please let us know as soon as possible. Please cancel only if it's an emergency or you're ill and contagious. It is difficult to reschedule patients because most appointments are made four to eight weeks in advance.