Patient Information
We want you to feel informed and at ease every step of the way. Here's everything you need to know about your experience with us.
Getting Started
Your First Visit
Your complimentary consultation is all about getting to know you and understanding your smile goals. Here's what you can look forward to.
Warm Welcome
Our team will greet you by name and make sure you're comfortable. We'll give you a tour of our office and handle any paperwork so you can relax.
Comprehensive Exam
Dr. Vasquez or Dr. Chen will personally examine your teeth, jaw, and bite. Using our 3D digital scanner — no goopy impressions! — we'll capture a complete picture of your smile.
Your Personalized Recommendations
We'll walk you through our findings together and discuss which treatment options best fit your goals, timeline, and lifestyle. No pressure — just honest, thoughtful guidance.
Making It Work for You
Our treatment coordinator Sarah will review everything from insurance benefits to monthly payment options. We'll find a plan that fits your budget comfortably — no surprises, no hidden fees.
Begin When You're Ready
There's no rush. When the time feels right, we can often start treatment the same day. Otherwise, we'll reserve your next appointment at a time that works best for your schedule.
Treatment Journey
What to Expect During Treatment
Beginning Treatment
- Your braces are placed or first aligners are delivered
- A brief adjustment period — we'll equip you with everything you need to stay comfortable
- A personalized care guide for brushing, eating, and daily life
- Direct access to our team for any questions
Active Treatment
- Check-in visits every 6-8 weeks to monitor progress
- Gentle, steady movement toward your ideal smile
- Progress photos so you can see how far you've come
- Adjustments tailored to your body's unique response
Finishing & Retention
- The exciting day your braces come off or you wear your final aligners
- Custom retainers crafted to protect your results
- Stunning before-and-after photos to celebrate your transformation
- A long-term retention plan to keep your smile beautiful for life
Financing
Insurance & Payment Options
A beautiful smile should never be out of reach. We offer several ways to make your investment in orthodontic care comfortable and stress-free.
Insurance
We work with most major dental and orthodontic insurance plans. Our team will verify your benefits and advocate on your behalf to maximize your coverage.
Payment Plans
Spread the cost of treatment over time with our flexible, interest-free monthly plans. We'll customize a schedule that feels right for your family's budget.
CareCredit Financing
For additional flexibility, CareCredit offers extended financing with promotional interest-free periods. Apply online or we'll help you in the office — it only takes a few minutes.
Family Discounts
When multiple family members are in treatment, we offer special family pricing. Because we believe everyone in your household deserves to love their smile.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Great question — and one we hear often! The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first evaluation by age 7. At this age, enough permanent teeth have come in for us to spot potential issues early. An early visit doesn't necessarily mean early treatment — it simply lets us keep an eye on development and step in at the ideal time if needed.
Every smile is different, so timelines vary. Most comprehensive treatments take between 12 and 24 months. Simpler cases with clear aligners can wrap up in as few as 6 months, while more complex cases involving jaw correction may take up to 30 months. During your complimentary consultation, we'll map out a personalized timeline so you know exactly what to expect.
We won't sugarcoat it — there can be some mild tenderness for a few days after braces are placed or adjusted. But most patients find it very manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods. We'll also send you home with orthodontic wax and tips to stay comfortable. Any soreness typically fades within 3 to 5 days.
We understand that cost is a real consideration for families, and we want to make great care accessible. Treatment costs depend on the type of treatment, complexity, and duration. During your complimentary consultation, we'll provide a clear, detailed estimate and walk you through every payment option — including insurance benefits, interest-free monthly plans, and CareCredit financing. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Absolutely — and you'd be in great company! About one in four of our patients are adults. With options like clear aligners, ceramic braces, and lingual braces, you can straighten your teeth discreetly and comfortably. The science of tooth movement works the same at any age, and we love helping adults finally get the smile they've always wanted.
Traditional braces use fixed brackets and wires to move your teeth, while clear aligners use a series of removable, clear plastic trays. Braces give us the most precise control for complex cases, while clear aligners offer a nearly invisible, removable option that's ideal for mild to moderate alignment concerns. During your consultation, we'll walk you through both options and help you decide which fits your lifestyle and goals best.
Most patients visit us every 6 to 8 weeks during active treatment for check-ins and adjustments. Clear aligner patients may come in a bit less often, typically every 8 to 12 weeks. Each visit usually takes just 15 to 30 minutes. We offer flexible scheduling — including early morning appointments — to make visits easy to fit into your routine.
Yes — and this is the part that protects everything you've worked for! After active treatment, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. We typically recommend full-time retainer wear for the first few months, then transitioning to nighttime wear. Many of our patients also love the peace of mind that comes with a permanent fixed retainer. We'll help you find the right option for your lifestyle.
Your Journey to a Confident Smile Starts Here
We’d love to welcome you to our practice. Schedule a complimentary consultation and let us create a personalized plan just for you.