Office Visits

Our greatest goal is to give you the healthy, straight, beautiful smile that you've always wanted. We understand that choosing to receive orthodontic care is a big decision, and we respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way you look and feel. Our practice will work with you every step of the way to make sure that your orthodontic care is as rewarding as possible. Our practice utilizes the latest technology, offering a variety of safe and gentle treatment options to give you the customized, individual care you deserve.

Every smile starts with an initial consultation!

We love seeing new patients and we are excited to talk to you about your orthodontic care. We have set aside special time during your first visit to get to know you and discuss your concerns. Your first visit to our office is our opportunity to provide you with a complimentary initial examination and to evaluate you or your child's oral health. Dr. Powell or Dr. Bre will perform a comprehensive orthodontic examination of your bite, facial contours, and facial balance. They will utilize the latest technology including a computer simulation to help diagnose each case and determine if this is the right time to begin treatment, or if further growth and development should occur. The doctors will then explain various treatment options, make recommendations and explain the reasons behind them. Fees, insurance coverage, and payment options will also be discussed. A variety of affordable payment plans, including coordination of insurance benefits are offered.

You will leave our office with a complete understanding of the recommended treatment plan and all of the information you need to make an informed decision regarding treatment. The doctors will answer any questions you may have. It is always our goal to make each and every visit to our practice the most rewarding and pleasant experience of your day.

What happens after the initial consultation?

Your next visit is the "records appointment," during which diagnostic records are obtained to determine the best course of treatment. This typically includes a cephalometric radiograph, facial and dental photographs, and a digital scan that is utilized to fabricate study models. The doctors use these diagnostic records to create your customized treatment plan and to track progress as your teeth move during the course of treatment. Separators, also known as spacers, are sometimes placed in your mouth at the end of the records visit.

Separators are the first step toward your super smile. Small donut-shaped elastic spacers are placed between your back teeth to gently create enough space for us to place your molar bands. We will show you where and how many separators have been placed in your mouth. Brush your teeth as you normally do, but avoid flossing between your teeth where the separators are located. Please do not use toothpicks, chew gum, or eat anything sticky that might pull the separators out. When we first place the separators, your teeth may be sensitive, especially when you bite. Choose soft foods or foods that do not require a lot of chewing. To relieve the soreness take an over-the-counter pain reliever as needed. The discomfort will go away in a few days.

IMPORTANT! If you lose a separator, please call us so we can replace it. We need space for your next appointment to place your braces in the most comfortable way.

In one week you will return and your initial appliances (braces, expander, etc.) will be delivered. This appointment takes 50 minutes. 

Parents are always welcome to watch the treatment process. Parents are brought back following each visit into the progress bay area designed to answer any questions they may have and to provide you with all the orthodontic supplies needed to keep your progress moving smoothly.

Communicating that we care is very important to us and you will find that we take the time to show you your treatment progress, what adjustments were made that day, and what to expect for future appointments.

Scheduling Appointments

Visiting the orthodontist about every six to eight weeks is an important part of your orthodontic treatment. Our practice will work with you to make sure that your appointments are as convenient as possible. When scheduling appointments, please let us know what days and times work best for you.

We understand that “life happens”! If you're running late or need to reschedule, please let us know and we will do everything we can to accommodate you. When you're ready to schedule your first appointment, contact our practice and our friendly scheduling coordinator will assist you. We're looking forward to working with you.

Visiting the dentist during orthodontic treatment

It is very important that you continue to visit your family dentist once every six months, even during your orthodontic treatment, for teeth cleanings and routine dental checkups. If extra dental care is needed, we will be happy to coordinate with your family dentist to make sure that you are receiving the best care possible.