Office Policies

Complimentary Consultation

For your first visit, please take time to complete the patient information form, which is available on our website (see "patient forms") or in the packet sent to you. By completing this form prior to your arrival, we can begin your first visit without delay.

Your initial appointment will consist of the following:

Review of Medical History
Clinical examination
Panoramic x-ray (if necessary)
Initial diagnosis and discussion of the orthodontic problem(s)
Guide to treatment options
Guide to the timetable of treatment

What to expect at your next appointments

Your sequence of appointments following the initial consultation with Dr. Kennell will be as follows:

1. Records Appointment

In order for the doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient, information must be gathered as the next step to getting braces.

Taking Orthodontic records includes the following three components:

Dental impressions of upper and lower teeth
X-Rays of teeth and jaws (Panoramic) and of head (Cephalometric)
Pictures of patient's face, teeth, and bite

This appointment is typically followed by a treatment conference where Dr. Kennell will discuss the treatment plan and treatment options with you in detail.

2. Bonding Appointment (*Separators and Banding if needed)

This is the appointment where the doctor places the braces on the teeth and a wire is secured into the braces. At this time, we will also discuss the importance of proper care of the teeth and braces.

*Depending on your particular treatment, separators may be placed one week prior to the placement of orthodontic bands. A separator, which is a small rubber band, will be inserted between the back teeth and will allow for easier placement of the bands.

3. Adjustment Appointments

Once the braces are in place, you will visit our office at intervals of 6-8 weeks, depending on your specific needs. At these appointments, Dr. Kennell will monitor your treatment progress and various procedures may be performed including the placement of new wires, the use of rubber bands, and the review of home care instructions. These appointments typically take 15 to 30 minutes and are by appointment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately.

4. Debanding

Upon completion of treatment, the braces will be removed and post-treatment records are completed. Retainers are then made to hold the teeth in place.

Payment & 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 several payment plans to suit different budgets. 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 fee discount. (If you have insurance, we will offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee that will not be covered by 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, Discover, American Express and Care Credit.
Ask about our no money down financing option through Springstone Financial.

Insurance

If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.