Getting Started
Diagnostic Records
At your first (or second) visit to see Dr. Pearson, diagnostic records are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, impressions for study models of the teeth, digital photos of the face and teeth, and digital x-rays. This information is used to create 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 a full diagnosis and treatment has been developed, an appointment will be made to discuss the patient's treatment in detail, including the treatment time and the cost for the patient's treatment.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (Invisalign aligners, braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes about one hour. You'll then see us at regular intervals of four to eight weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes between five and twenty minutes. Our regular office hours are on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Patients are seen by appointment only and we are usually right on time. We take pride in being on time for our patients and we ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. Your appointment time has been reserved especially for you and if you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately. Cancel only if it is an emergency. It is difficult to reschedule you since most appointments are made four to eight weeks in advance.
Payment and Office Policies
Cost
The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. We have payment plans to suit different budgets, including a no-down-payment plan as well as a discounted fee for pre-payment. We also accept assignment from many insurance plans and file the necessary papers to the 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 this financial policy:- If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a bookkeeping fee discount. (If you wish to have your insurance assignable, we will offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee that will not be covered by the 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 Discover.
- In cases of serious delinquency, treatment will be discontinued, although we will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.