Your First Visit
We look forward to meeting you on your first visit to our office. During this time, we will introduce you to our team and get you acquainted with our office. We understand that each patient's orthodontic treatment is different and we promise to give you the individualized care you deserve. The first visit will include photographs and a panoramic x-ray to help Dr. Becher determine the need for and timing of orthodontic treatment. This information also helps us to demonstrate our finding. If treatment is indicated we will then complete diagnostic records which will include models of your teeth. This information will be evaluated by Dr. Becher prior to your next visit to confirm our initial clinical findings and to help customize your treatment. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
We understand that everyone's needs and expectation about orthodontics is different. It is our goal to provide each patient with an individualized treatment plan and to inform you about the following:
- Is Orthodontic treatment indicated?
- When is the best time to initiate treatment?
- What treatment options are available?
- How much will treatment cost?
- How long will treatment last?
Our treatment coordinator will then discuss your insurance benefit as well as establish an individualized payment plan.
Regular Appointments
The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. You'll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 10 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. We request 24 hours notice if you need to cancel your appointment.
Office Hours
Monday & Wednesday – 8:00am to 5:00pm
Tuesday & Thursday – 7:00am to 4:00pm
Payment & Office Policies
Cost
Dr. Becher does not want finances to stand in the way of a beautiful smile. It is our mission to provide you flexible payment options to help fit your budget. The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. We have payment plans to suit different budgets, including a no-down-payment option in some cases. We also accept assignment from most insurance plans, and file the necessary papers to the insurance company. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.
Fees
In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established this financial policy:
- If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount.
- To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months.
- For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, DISCOVER, AMERICAN EXPRESS, and MASTERCARD
- We offer online bill pay and automatic draft
Insurance
If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit that is distinct from regular dental insurance. Because insurance policies vary, we can only estimate your coverage in good faith but cannot guarantee coverage due to the complexities of insurance contracts. For your convenience, we do take assignment on insurance. The balance will be arranged for you to pay (see above). Professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to an insurance company. Thus, the insurance company is responsible to the patient and the patient is responsible to the doctor. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.
Please remember that orthodontic insurance benefit is paid through the course of treatment. If during treatment, your benefit or your insurance changes, please inform our office. We will determine the benefits of the new or altered coverage. The financially responsible party will be accountable for any difference.
