We Love New Patients!
At Farr West Orthodontics, we make getting braces fun and easy! For kids, that means making our new patients feel comfortable and at ease in our orthodontic offices and being very clear and open with them about what to expect with each visit. For parents, it means answering all questions and reducing stress by taking care of orthodontic insurance procedures. Check out the following to see how Farr West Orthodontics can make your orthodontic experience a smooth one!
What To Expect
If you’ve never had a child with braces before, it’s natural to wonder what to expect when exploring orthodontia and the different treatments available. Here is a basic description of the steps our patients take upon choosing Farr West Orthodontics for their orthodontic care.
Orthodontic Consultation
At the initial visit, we get to know the patient and family members, helping them get oriented to and acquainted with our office and practice philosophy. We then perform a thorough examination to determine if orthodontic treatment is needed. General questions regarding the fee and our payment options are discussed during the first appointment.
Initial Records
After the consultation, diagnostic records are an important step in orthodontic treatment. These records include photographs, x-rays and models of the teeth. The information gathered from these records helps us determine an appropriate course of treatment for the patient. We then prepare a treatment plan specifically designed to address the patient’s orthodontic needs and requests.
Initial Placement of Appliance(s)
This first appointment of active treatment usually requires one to two hours for placement of the appliance(s) and/or braces with time to review instructions for the care and cleaning of the appliance(s). Due to the length of this appointment, we generally schedule this appointment in the morning.
Active Treatment
This phase of treatment includes monthly adjustment visits (for patients in Comprehensive Treatment) and appliance adjustment visits (for patients in Phase I Treatment). These visits usually occur every three to six weeks and are approximately 30 minutes long. Periodic progress reports and records will be taken throughout the active period of treatment to ensure a high standard of quality and adherence to the patient’s individualized treatment plan.
Removal of Appliance
The removal of orthodontic appliances usually takes about one hour. Instructions for retention appliances, such as a retainer, will be given at this appointment.
Retention Treatment
During the retention appointments, the retainer is examined, adjusted and corrected to ensure proper function. It is important that the patient follow the doctor’s instructions on wearing the retention appliance in order to prevent relapse.