Do You Charge For an Initial Visit?
As a courtesy to you and your family dentist, we offer a “complimentary” exam to determine the need for braces.
At What Age Do You Start Seeing Patients?
We follow the American Association of Orthodontics recommendation that every child receive an orthodontic evaluation by age 7.
Why Do You Evaluate Patients So Young?
Early detection and correction of dental problems while a child is young may prevent more serious problems from developing and make any subsequent treatment shorter and less complicated. A small percentage of this young group may need some form of intervention to widen the arch, making more room for teeth to erupt. Habits are evaluated, medical issues are discussed and an observation schedule is arranged until the patient is ready to begin treatment.
How Long Will the First Visit Last?
The first visit can last anywhere between 45 minutes and 1 hour. The Doctor will conduct an orthodontic examination. Treatment plan and financial options will be discussed.
Do You Accept Patients Transferring From Out of Town?
Yes, we do. After an examination Dr. Riley will propose options for the completion of your treatment.
Do You Have Any Adult Patients?
Absolutely! A growing percentage of our patients are adult. New cosmetic options are making adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient. Learn more here.
What is the Difference Between an Orthodontist and a Dentist?
An orthodontist is a general dentist that has completed 2 to 3 additional years of full-time education in orthodontic biomechanics. Upon completion they are licensed as a specialist in orthodontic treatment.
Can I Make Appointments For Late in the Afternoon?
In order to have early and late appointments available for the majority of patients, some longer procedures need to be accomplished during the hours of 9 and 3. We will do our best to work with your schedules as well as permitted.
Do You See Patients for an Emergency?
Yes, contact information for our patient emergencies is on our phone system. Feel free to visit our emergency care page for detailed information.
Are Payment Options Available?
Yes, we offer a variety of payment options that will allow you to pay for orthodontic services over a period of time during your estimated length of treatment. Learn more here.
How Do You Handle Insurance?
After verification of coverage, we will bill and collect from most insurance carriers. All insurance plans are different and vary greatly, some plans send the payments directly to the patients. Plans with orthodontic coverage only cover a portion of the total ortho fee with a lifetime maximum that will be paid out. Your insurance is an agreement between you and your employer. We will do all we can to help you receive your maximum benefit by assisting you with the required paperwork. However, we ask patients to understand that if coverage ceases or changes, the patient is ultimately responsible for the total fee.
Do You Accept Most Major Credit Cards?
We accept all major credit cards with the exception of American Express.
Do You Have Direct Debit?
Yes, we have arrangements for direct debit from your checking or savings. We can also charge monthly payments to your credit card, flex, or HSA card.
Do You Charge Interest?
No we do not.
Are Family Discounts Available?
We do offer a family courtesy incentive for multiple patients from the same family.
Are Retainers Required After Braces?
Yes, retainers are worn full-time for about 6 months followed by nighttime wear indefinitely.
Why Do Teeth Move After Getting Braces Removed?
Teeth move throughout life whether you have or have not previously gone through orthodontic treatment. It is part of the natural aging process. This is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely while you sleep to maintain orthodontic results throughout your lifetime.