New Patient Information at Family Orthodontics
Patient Information
When you visit Family Orthodontics in Tacoma, your initial examination and consultation are complimentary. We never want a potential patient to miss out on the opportunity to learn more about orthodontia — and how it can change their lives — for budgetary reasons.
We are committed to educating our patients and their families about every aspect of treatment. We know that informed patients are best equipped to make the right decisions regarding their treatment.
Whatever your goals may be for your orthodontic treatment, we are dedicated to turning your dreams into the reality of a perfect smile.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
During your initial visit, the orthodontist will conduct a thorough exam of your mouth and teeth. Based on this preliminary review, we will discuss potential approaches to treatment — if orthodontia is indeed warranted. We will explain how the process works and what to expect. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions.
At that time, the orthodontist may recommend performing diagnostic tests, which may include photographs, X-rays and impression molds. We will schedule a return visit for you, giving our treatment experts the opportunity to review your test results. During your next appointment, we will present our recommended treatment plan and discuss the next steps in the process.
Financial Arrangements and Insurance Coverage
We work hard to help every patient who seeks orthodontic treatment find a way to afford it. Our financial services team is dedicated to assisting you with insurance forms and approvals. In fact, we handle all of your insurance paperwork for you, so you never have to worry about it.
If you don’t have insurance coverage for braces or other orthodontic treatments, we can make flexible financial arrangements to suit your budget and treatment plan.
Think of it as a hassle-free way to finance your — or your child’s — lifetime of smiles.
In Case of Emergency
Although it doesn’t happen often, you may experience an emergency with your braces or orthodontic appliance outside our normal business hours.
If you sustain significant mouth trauma, sudden, unexplained pain or are involved in an accident, contact our office immediately.
If a piece of your orthodontia breaks, we recommend that you place any broken pieces into an envelope and bring them with you to your next appointment. In anticipation of any potential problems, keep an emergency kit at home that includes orthodontic wax, tweezers, dental floss, a standard pencil eraser, and cotton swabs.
If a bracket becomes loose, use tweezers to put it in place, then apply wax to stabilize it. If a wire breaks and protrudes into your cheek, use the pencil eraser to gently move it in a direction that doesn’t cause pain, then cap it with a ball of wax. Rinse with saltwater and stick with soft foods until you can see the orthodontist.
For most other problems you may encounter, we can generally assist you over the phone.
