For New Patients

Your First Visit During your first visit to Dr. Austin's office, diagnostic records are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of your teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth, and digital X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of your treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care. Consultation As a new patient to our office, the purpose of your first visit is get to know you, answer your questions, and explain your orthodontic needs. Following are some of the questions that will be answered during Dr. Austin’s orthodontic examination:  Do you need orthodontic care? How long is expected treatment?  What are the approximate costs for your care? How will your dental insurance help?What payment options are available? If you are not currently in need of orthodontic care, the doctor will suggest that we see you again for a simple follow up examination in future months. We will automatically send you a reminder card as the suggested date approaches. The doctor will begin with orthodontic diagnostic records. These records are done at no cost to you unless you need a copy for yourself. These records consist of:  - Impressions of your teeth so that a set of plaster study models can be made.   - Intra-oral & Extra-oral Photographs of your teeth and smile.   - Digital Orthodontic Radiographs (75% less radiation - it's like taking a long walk on a sunny day). Dr. Austin will review your radiographs and models to confirm his examination findings. He will develop a complete diagnostic work-up and treatment plan to fit your specific needs. If needed, a consultation may be held to further answer your questions and explain the following:                  · Diagnostic findings · Proposed treatment plan                      · Estimated treatment time · Costs · Terms Our goal is to provide you with quality personalized care. We look forward to discussing your orthodontic needs!

 
Regular Appointments

Your first big appointment (when you get your appliances, braces, expanders, etc. bonded) usually takes from one to two hours. You'll then see us at regular intervals of 4 to 8 weeks apart for adjustments, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. Our regular office hours are Mon. 9-6pm, Wed. 8-5pm, Thurs. 7:30-4:30pm and Fri. 7:30-2:30pm. Summer times are different. Patients are seen 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 at least 24 hours in advance. Cancel only if it is an emergency. It is difficult to reschedule since most appointments are made 4 to 8 weeks in advance.