| First visit | Records and treatment discussion |
First visit
We love to welcome new patients to our practice! We value your confidence in choosing us, and work at making your initial visit comfortable, productive and enjoyable. Each patient is unique and during this visit, Dr. Monica will determine the individual needs of your case. If treatment is indicated, then you will be given information about the process, timing, estimated fees, etc. and scheduled for a comprehensive records appointment. Detailed treatment planning and discussion will be done after complete records are examined. Whenever possible, we offer the option to obtain the diagnostic records right away. There is no charge for the initial consult, but if X-rays or records are done at this visit, the corresponding fee will be charged.
Things to bring with you at the first visit
| • | Completed New patient registration form and Acknowledgement of receipt of privacy notice mailed to you prior to your visit. (You can also download online forms) |
| • | Insurance
information, cards, information about the
primary subscriber |
| • | Any recent X-rays or records (Panoramic X-ray, Cephlogram, study casts, photos), if you have them. Please check with your dentist if you have had a Panorex within the past 6 months, and bring along a copy of this. |
The initial visit is usually 30-45 minutes, and we encourage questions from both the patient and the parent, so you have a good understanding of the recommended treatment. At the end of this visit, you will have a general idea of the treatment plan, timing and cost; details will be discussed at the Records appointment.
Records
and treatment discussion
Routinely, a set of records consists of specific
X-rays (Panorex and Cephalogram), impressions of
the teeth, photographs and a detailed examination.
After evaluating the records, Dr. Monica will discuss
the treatment plan with you in detail, and answer
any questions you may have about the same. Treatment
options, timing, length of treatment, risks and
benefits, fee for treatment, financing options,
etc. are explained and the requisite appointments
are scheduled.
Subsequent
visits
The timing of actual appliance placement and frequency
of subsequent visits varies depending on the treatment
modality. For routine braces, separators are placed
and the braces put on after a week. Most patients
will then be seen for adjustments every 4-6 weeks.
Adjustment appointments can usually be scheduled
later in the day, so children do not need to miss
school. However, if it is necessary to schedule
earlier appointments for certain procedures, we
will provide you with an excuse note for school.
We always encourage any questions and feedback from
our patients, as we believe that well informed patients
make the best patients.
