Office Policies

YOUR FIRST VISIT

At your first visit, after completing our Medical/Dental History form, Dr. Fell will discuss any orthodontic problems and treatment options. She will show what alternatives are available and what results might be expected. She will also discuss the best time to commence treatment and the estimated costs involved for taking records and for treatment. Dr. Fell will be happy to answer whatever questions or concerns you may have.

If treatment is to begin, formal diagnostic records will be required for Dr. Fell to develop a custom treatment plan based upon the most complete information. Records will include photographs of the face and teeth, impressions for study models, and cephalometric and panoramic X-rays. In addition, these records will be helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as teeth move during orthodontic care. Records may be taken at the first visit if desired and time permits, or at a subsequent visit.

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY, LOWER RADIATION

The office uses all digital x-ray equipment which substantially reduces radiation to the patient. Digital imaging provides clear and crisp images that allow Dr. Fell to diagnose your case as well as to better communicate your needs to the patient and the patient’s dentist.

Patient Form

Help us be prepared for your first visit by completing the patient information form prior to your first visit. Download the file, print and fill it out, and bring it with you to your first vist.

Adult Patient Information Form
Child Patient Information Form
CONSULTATION

Once Dr. Fell has evaluated all your information (x-rays and models), she will be able to thoroughly explain the proper plan of treatment, the length of time involved, and specific financial arrangements.

REGULAR APPOINTMENTS

When you get your braces and/or appliances, the appointments usually take from 1 to 2 hours. We ask that these appointments be in the morning or early afternoon, which may cause some school/work to be missed. Appointments will then be at regular intervals, 4 to 10 weeks apart. Dr. Fell will check on your progress and adjust appliances when needed. These appointments usually take from 15 to 30 minutes. We are in the office Monday through Friday and some Saturdays. Patients are seen by appointment only on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and some Saturdays. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and we ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us as soon as you know. Cancel only if it is an emergency. It is difficult to reschedule, since most appointments are made 4 to 10 weeks in advance.

PAYMENT AND OFFICE POLICIES

Cost

The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's problem. You will discuss fees and payment options before any treatment begins. We have payment plans that suit different budgets, including a no-down-payment option. We also accept assignment from most insurance plans and file the necessary papers with your insurance company. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.

Fees

In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established these financial policies:

If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount. (If you have insurance, the discount applies to your portion of the fee that will not be covered by insurance.) To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months. For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, MASTERCARD, and automatic checking or savings account withdrawal arrangements.

In case of serious delinquency, treatment may be discontinued. We will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.

Insurance

If you have insurance, we will help you determine the coverage you have available, and we ask that you assign your insurance benefits to us. The balance will be arranged for you to pay (see above). Professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to the insurance company. Therefore, the insurance company is responsible to you and you are responsible to the doctor. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions on your behalf.

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