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What is orthodontics?
Orthodontics is more than simply “straightening crooked teeth”.
It’s a special area of dentistry that focuses on your bite,
skeletal and dental relationships, facial aesthetics and form. As
a specialist, the orthodontist works closely with your general dentist
and other dental specialists to provide you with comprehensive dental
care. What makes an orthodontist
so special?
An orthodontist is a dentist who has completed at least two continuous
years of additional training in orthodontics at an accredited university
after graduation from dental school and is licensed as a specialist
by the state. By limiting their practice exclusively to orthodontics,
Dr. Groesch, Dr. Longos and their staff of well-trained assistants
have truly become experts in their field.
At what age should my child
be examined to determine if they will benefit from orthodontics?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every
child visits an orthodontist by age seven or earlier. A child may
also be seen if a problem is detected by the parents, the family
dentist, or the child's physician.
Would an adult patient
benefit from orthodontics?
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age! Everyone wants
a beautiful and healthy smile. Approximately twenty-five percent
of orthodontic patients today are adults.
How Do You Start?
Once you have determined that it’s time to see the orthodontist,
just call our office. Our receptionist will schedule an examination
for you. During this visit, we will ask some questions concerning
your dental and medical history. We will carefully listen to what
you hope to achieve from treatment. Then Dr. Groesch or Dr. Longos
will perform a visual examination and will advise you of any problems
and the necessary corrective treatment. They will also discuss the
appropriate timing of treatment and a fee range for orthodontic
care.
If orthodontic treatment is recommended we will, with your permission,
gather diagnostic records. These consist of study models, x-rays
and photographs of your teeth and face. This data, as well as information
from your initial examination, is used to make a comprehensive treatment
plan.
At a consultation visit we will present the results of the doctor’s
study. We will explain any orthodontic problems, describe the plan
for treatment, clarify office policies and procedures, and discuss
the exact cost of treatment. When all of your questions have been
answered, it is time to schedule the start of orthodontic treatment.
How long do orthodontic
treatments take?
Treatment times vary on a case by case basis, but the average time
is from one to three years. Rate of growth, cooperation of the patient,
and the severity of the correction necessary can effect actual treatment
time.
 What
is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a state-of-the-art alternative to braces that is virtually
undetectable to other people. Invisalign straightens your teeth,
not with brackets or wires, but with a series of clear, customized,
removable appliances called aligners.
How much does treatment
cost and what kind of payment arrangements are available?
Since an individual treatment plan is designed for each patient,
it is impossible to determine treatment or fees prior to seeing
the patient. We offer several financial options to fit the individual
needs of our patients. Insurance benefits are investigated, billed
and in most cases accepted. Visa, Master Card, Discover or automatic
deductions from you bank account are also accepted in our office.
Patients can also view their account history and track insurance
payments through our web site. We offer an accounting discount for
payments made in full at the start of treatment and family member
discounts. We are flexible in our accounting arrangements to make
orthodontics available to everyone.
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