Drs. Lyons and Gunsolus, and our team look forward to meeting you and appreciate the opportunity to discuss your or your family's orthodontic needs.
The goal of the first meeting will be to:
- Getting to know you and your goals for treatment.
- Evaluate the needs and concerns of both you and your dentist.
- Complete a thorough assessment of the jaw relationship; position, function and fit of the teeth, as well as health of the jaw joints and muscles.
- Outline the varying treatment alternatives, treatment timing, fee estimates, scheduling and general office procedures.
- Discuss the next steps in treatment of any orthodontic problem.
We know your time is valuable, so to expedite treatment, we will schedule time during the initial exam to obtain the diagnostic records if it is deemed necessary for further treatment planning. The records include impressions for study models which are taken in our office, as well as diagnostic x-rays and photos which will need to be taken at Northwest Radiography. These records are necessary for developing the appropriate treatment plan. This additional appointment will last approximately one hour.
During the initial examination for each patient, we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to ask questions as well.
- Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
- Is treatment needed now or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
- What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
- Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
- How long will treatment take?
- How much will it cost?
- What are my payment options?
While we can often answer these general questions about treatment during the initial examination, we will address specific areas of concern after careful analysis of the diagnostic records. We feel it is important to analyze each patient's specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction.
If necessary, we will then schedule a consultation visit to discuss treatment options, time frames and financial arrangements. We insist that our patients leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment will consist of and how long it will take. Also, we will answer any additional questions.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:
- Any panoramic X-ray taken within the past six months.
- If you have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance information. By providing this information at the first visit, we will be able to give you an estimate of your costs.
New Patient Forms
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