Our treatment coordinators, Chase and Barb, will greet you in our waiting room and escort you to the examination room to meet with Dr. Brown.

The initial consultation with our office is complimentary. Initially, we will obtain basic information regarding any current or potential orthodontic problems. We can then properly address your individual concerns and needs. Please allow approximately one hour for your first visit to our office. If treatment is indicated, Dr. Brown will address the nature of the orthodontic problems, the type of treatment required, the estimated length of treatment time and when to initiate treatment necessary to correct these problems. All information will be conveyed with strong visuals using our state-of-the-art computer graphic system. Once the initial examination has been completed, our treatment coordinator will provide you with an examination report, information regarding future appointments and, of course, the estimated cost of treatment. We will discuss the payment options available through our office and, if you should have orthodontic insurance, determine your maximum benefit prior to leaving the appointment.

At the end of your appointment, Chase or Barb will give you a brief tour of our office. If you are satisfied with the proposed treatment plan and financial arrangements and Dr. Brown has indicated you or your child is ready to initiate treatment, a complete set of orthodontic records (radiographs, photos, impressions etc.) will be recommended. Dr. Brown's treatment plan will then be confirmed, and the process of putting your braces on can begin.

Diagnostic Records
Orthodontic records can be obtained immediately after the examination appointment, if you prefer. This can save you from making a second appointment. The records appointment will take approximately 25-30 minutes.

Records confirm Dr. Brown's diagnosis and treatment plan and serve as documentation of your teeth, lips and profile when treatment is initiated.

What will be the length of treatment?
The length of treatment varies from patient to patient. It depends on the severity of the bite, the degree of correction, age and the level of cooperation achieved. However, most cases are completed between 18-24 months. We are constantly reviewing treatment progress and make an effort at each appointment to give you an update regarding you or your child's treatment status.

What if treatment is not recommended at the first appointment?
If treatment is not indicated, a recall appointment will be scheduled at either six to 12 months to monitor the child's growth and dental development. Ninety percent of children seen in Dr. Brown's practice should be monitored until the majority of permanent teeth have erupted and before initiating orthodontic therapy. This protocol limits the child to one phase of orthodontic treatment and reduces both the total treatment time and the cost of orthodontic treatment.

What is my responsibility once the braces have been put on?
We remain in close communication with your regular dentist. It is necessary that check-ups and cleanings continue to be scheduled throughout orthodontic treatment every six months.

The patient must also maintain regular visits to our office throughout your orthodontic treatment. These are usually scheduled every four to 10 weeks to monitor your progress, check your hygiene and adjust your braces.

Orthodontics is very different from medicine or general dentistry. The orthodontist and the staff cannot do all the work for you. Generally speaking, excellent orthodontic treatment results can only be obtained with cooperative and informed patients and parents. Successful treatment is a team effort: patients, parents, staff and the orthodontist working together. The rewards are your pleasing smile, your healthy teeth and your glow of new confidence.