We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to our office. Your initial appointment consists of a thorough examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. This important one hour visit gives us insight into your orthodontic needs. We know your time is valuable, so to expedite treatment we may also reserve time following the exam for diagnostic records, which might include x-rays* and photographs necessary for developing the appropriate treatment plan. This additional appointment lasts approximately 30 minutes.
During the initial examination for each patient we address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment, treatment options, time frames and financial agreements. We encourage you to ask questions as well. We want our patients to leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment consists of, and how long it will take.
- Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
- Is treatment needed now or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption or other factors have occurred?
- What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
- Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
- How long will treatment take?
- How much will it cost?
- What are my payment options?
While we can usually answer these general questions about treatment during the initial examination, in some cases we may need to address more specific areas after careful analysis of the diagnostic records needed to start treatment. We feel it is important to analyze every patient’s specific needs, since such in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction. We might then schedule a consultation visit to discuss treatment options, time frames, and financial arrangements. We want patients to leave with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment consists of, and how long it will take. Also, we gladly answer any additional questions you might have.
Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:
- Any X-rays taken within the past six months.
- If you have orthodontic insurance, bring your insurance card. By providing this information at the first visit, we will be able to give you an estimate of your costs.
Forms
You may access the following new patient form to assist us with your care. Please print and fill out the following form, then bring it to your appointment.
New Patient Form
*Waugh & Allen Orthodontics uses conventional 2-D x-rays for screening patients. When needed, 3-D x-rays may be made. Waugh & Allen subscribes to the worldwide standards regarding the lowest dose of x-ray needed for patient care and employs a full-time Radiologic Technician to oversee radiation safety, the only orthodontic practice in Athens offering this level of care.
*These forms require Adobe Acrobat Reader. Click the Adobe logo above to download.