Office Policies
Your First VisitAt the first visit to the orthodontist we will determine if you are a candidate for orthodontic treatment. If you can benefit from treatment, diagnostic records will be taken or scheduled at that time. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, virtual study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth, and X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care. Consultation After diagnostic records are taken, a consultation appointment will be scheduled with the doctor to discuss the relevant findings and the proposed treatment plan. All of your questions regarding treatment will be answered at that time. Regular Appointments The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes less than one hour. You'll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. Patients are seen by appointment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. Our automated appointment confirmation system confirms appointments approximately two days before the appointment date. You may also register on our web site to receive e-mail reminders. Cancellation of Appointments If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify the office immediately by calling 248-644-5400. If possible, please give us 24 hours notice. This courtesy on your part makes it possible to give an appointment to another patient on our cancellation list. Extra Appointments If a problem arises, please call the office as soon as possible so we can determine if you require an extra appointment. If so, we will do our best to accommodate you in the day’s schedule. At the very least, we will be able to make the patient comfortable with complete appliance restoration being completed at the later appointment. Financial Information Financial considerations should not be an obstacle to a beautiful smile. We understand that orthodontics is a personal as well as financial investment. To assist you in this process our practice offers a wide range of payments options. It is our goal to provide you with high quality, affordable treatment that fits within your budget. Fees The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s orthodontic needs. Our financial manager will meet with you following the consultation appointment to discuss your orthodontic fee, financing options, insurance coverage and length of payment plans. We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. For your convenience we accept Visa and MasterCard. We also offer automatic monthly credit/debit card payments, and financing through Care Credit. In addition we extend a 5% bookkeeping credit for payment in full made by cash or check within the first three months of starting treatment. Insurance If you have insurance, please be sure to provide us with accurate insurance information. This will allow us to develop a payment plan for treatment that will maximize your insurance benefit and to structure payments that will fit your budget. Our office participates with Delta Dental. If you have orthodontic insurance coverage, prior to setting up your payment schedule, we will check your orthodontic benefits from your insurance company. This will enable you to understand what your benefits are and how they will be paid. We will submit insurance claims for your convenience and also accept assignment of benefits from most insurance plans. Orthodontic benefits are paid as a lifetime benefit. Once you have achieved a certain dollar amount, you have no further benefit under that plan. Most companies pay their benefits monthly or quarterly as treatment progresses. When the sum provided by your plan has been paid, insurance payments cease. You must be aware, however, that your insurance is an agreement between you and the insurance company.; Occasionally, benefits are terminated or changed. If the insurance company discontinues payments you would be responsible for any unpaid balance. If the insurance pays more than anticipated you would be refunded any excess once the account is paid in full. Flexible Spending Accounts/HSAs: Many employers offer a plan where pre-tax dollars can be set aside once a year for medical expenses commonly referred to as ‘flex’ plans. Orthodontic treatment is a good way to maximize this benefit. It is important to find out the guidelines of your flexible spending account Please check with your benefit administrator to find out the specific details and requirements. Please call our Kim our financial manager at (248) 644-5400 or email her at kim@orthodonticassociates.com for assistance in making payment arrangements and for any financial questions. Some questions can be handled easily by email, however, more complex questions may require a phone call during regular business hours. |
