When you take the first step towards improved health and a straighter smile, it can be really exciting! But you may also find it a little overwhelming, especially in the beginning when you don’t know much about the orthodontic process. At Hemphill Orthodontics, the trust you place in our practice is important to us, and we want you to feel confident in the care we provide. That begins the moment you walk through our door for your first orthodontic visit with our Celina office!
Because this is one of the most important appointments you’ll have, our team works hard to ensure it’s as rewarding and stress-free as possible. Part of that is preparing you for each part of your orthodontic journey. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect from this initial consultation, and where we’ll go from there.
Your first orthodontic visit with Hemphill Orthodontics
When you enter our office, you’ll be greeted warmly and introduced to some of our team. You’ll receive a quick tour to help you feel more comfortable with your surroundings before we move on to photographing your teeth. We also do a series of x-rays in order to see what’s happening beneath the gums, like the position and growth of the bones and joints, and the teeth that are still below the gum line.
In some cases, impressions of your teeth will be taken so we can make an exact replica of the bite, helping us to understand exactly what the problem is and how best to treat it. This involves biting down on a soft putty-like material for a few moments. We’ll then use that impression to create a mold in our lab.
Following this, Dr. Hemphill will look at the records and images available and perform a careful oral examination. He may also ask questions about any problems with chewing, swallowing, or opening and closing the mouth. When taken together, this information allows Dr. Hemphill to make a proper diagnosis. It also allows him to create and finalize a customized treatment plan at this first visit!
Following the exam, Dr. Hemphill will let you know if treatment is recommended and what the goals are. Depending on the developmental stage of the teeth and jaws, it may begin right away, or at a later time. Regardless of whether you’re starting treatment now or later, this is the best time to discuss the orthodontic process, and address any questions or concerns you may have. You can expect us to touch on:
- any oral issues you’re experiencing
- if treatment is needed immediately
- what treatment options are available to correct the problem
- if any teeth will need to be removed
- an estimate of how long we expect your treatment to take
- the total investment required for treatment
- any payment or financing options we have available to you
In order to create a successful treatment plan for you, we’ll look at your specific needs, your lifestyle, and your goals. This individualized approach allows us to consistently produce superior results that will give you a smile worth sharing!
Your investment in a healthier, straighter smile
Once you’ve decided on a treatment plan with Dr. Hemphill, we’ll walk you through the investment needed for your new smile. Every patient has their own unique needs and will respond to treatment in their own way, so the total treatment costs will vary from case to case. Your personalized treatment plan will include a breakdown of all applicable fees, and we will inform you of all costs involved before treatment begins.
At Hemphill Orthodontics, we believe everyone should have access to the orthodontic treatment they need! We’re committed to providing high-quality care for our patients by offering competitive pricing, flexible payment schedules to work with any budget, and customized payment plans to give you peace of mind.
If you have insurance that covers orthodontic treatment, you’ll receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Since many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from regular dental insurance, our team is happy to review your insurance to help you maximize your benefits. Once treatment has started, we can file your claims for you.
Orthodontic insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If, during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for all charges.
What comes next
After your first orthodontic visit, we’ll schedule an appointment for you to receive your new orthodontic appliances! You can expect follow-up appointments with us every 6-8 weeks or so, depending on the type of treatment. At these visits, Dr. Hemphill will adjust your appliance if necessary, monitor that the tooth movement is safe and healthy, and check that everything is progressing accordingly.
These visits are an essential part of your orthodontic treatment, so it’s important that you don’t skip them. While we do our best to make sure appointments are scheduled for a day and time that’s convenient for you, if you’re running late or can’t make your appointment for any reason, we simply ask that you let us know as soon as possible. We’ll be happy to accommodate you by rescheduling your appointment for another day to keep your treatment on track.
Hemphill Orthodontics will give you something to smile about
You’re putting your smile in good hands with Dr. Hemphill and our expert team! We have years of experience in straightening smiles, and innovative techniques allow us to deliver the best results in the shortest amount of time possible. You can also be sure Dr. Hemphill will only recommend the most necessary and efficient treatment for you.
Because orthodontic treatment is one of the most important investments you can make for yourself or your family, it should only be trusted to an experienced orthodontic specialist like Dr. Hemphill. If you’re interested in learning more about how orthodontics can benefit you, get in touch today to schedule your first orthodontic visit. We’re here to give you the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve!
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Dr. Hemphill