Choosing to improve your oral health with orthodontics is a big decision, and we’re excited to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted! Every orthodontic journey begins with a consultation, which we offer free of charge to potential patients. This appointment is one of the most important visits you’ll have with us, giving you the chance to meet our team and learn more about everything we have to offer. You might be feeling a little nervous about it, especially if you aren’t sure what to expect from the process. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what you can expect from your free consultation with Sandifer Orthodontics!
Completing your new patient paperwork
If you’re new to our practice, we’ll need you to complete intake paperwork on or before your first visit. For your convenience, we have these available on our website. If you prefer, you can also complete these in the office once you arrive for your appointment. While every office has its own set of required forms, there are some basics you’ll need to complete in almost any healthcare setting. We’ve outlined these for you below.
New patient intake forms. This basic paperwork will ask for your name, date of birth, contact information, and the party responsible for any recommended treatment. This person will sign the consent forms, so they must be at least 18 years of age.
Medical history forms. The medical history form is used to evaluate your overall health before treatment. Read through each item carefully, as the accuracy of this form is important to the success of your treatment plan.
Dental history forms. A thorough dental history is essential before beginning orthodontic treatment. This paperwork includes an assessment of the dental work you’ve had over the years and asks you to outline any dental surgery or trauma. You’ll also lay out the basics of your current oral hygiene routine.
Dental insurance forms. If you have dental insurance, you’ll complete the insurance verification form at your initial appointment. This allows our office staff to verify your benefits promptly.
HIPAA forms. You’ll receive a notice about our privacy practices regarding your personal health information. This describes how your medical information may be used and disclosed, and explains how you can access it. It also goes over the rights you have with respect to your Personal Health Information and how you can exercise those rights.
Meeting your treatment coordinator
Once you’ve completed your paperwork, we’ll show you to a consultation room. You’ll meet our treatment coordinator, learn more about what you can expect from our practice, and go over any concerns you have about your oral health. After reviewing your medical and dental histories, you’ll be introduced to Dr. Sandifer!
Meeting Dr. Sandifer
After meeting Dr. Sandifer, she’ll perform a careful examination of your teeth and jaws. She may also ask some follow-up questions about your specific concerns. Once the exam is complete, we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about your diagnosis or the proposed treatment plan. This part of the visit gives us important insight into your orthodontic needs and typically takes about half an hour.
We know your time is valuable, so we may also reserve time following the exam for diagnostic records, which help expedite treatment. These records include digital photographs, X-rays, and a scan of your teeth for study models. This gives us a good look at what’s happening beneath the surface of your smile, and gives Dr. Sandifer a deeper understanding of your overall oral health.
Diagnostic records are an essential part of developing a customized treatment plan and take approximately 20 to 30 minutes to complete. Your personalized plan will outline each step of the process from start to finish. It also includes information on which appliances would be best for you and an estimate of how long treatment will take.
Reviewing your treatment plan
Once you’ve decided on a treatment plan, our team will walk you through exactly what it includes so there are no surprises. Every case is different and each patient responds to treatment in their own way, so your plan is built around your specific needs.
We believe everyone should be able to access high-quality orthodontic care and a confident smile. If you have insurance that covers orthodontic treatment, we’ll gather that information ahead of your consultation, and our insurance coordinator and treatment coordinator will help you understand how your benefits apply to your care.
The official go-ahead
The final step in your consultation is completing your treatment agreement and consent form, which makes everything official. Take time to review these carefully and clarify any final questions before signing. Your consent form permits us to treat you or your minor child. Legally, nothing can move forward without it, so be sure to read and initial each statement, which helps us verify that every point has been read and understood before treatment begins.
Our team will also walk you through a few office policies before you go. These usually cover emergency visits, appointment expectations, and what to do about a broken bracket or appliance. You’ll get information on transferring or discontinuing treatment as well.
Your free consultation with Sandifer Orthodontics
Now that you know what to expect from your free consultation with Dr. Sandifer and our expert team, it’s time to make some smile magic! If you haven’t already, get in touch to schedule your first visit at our Jackson or Brandon office. You can also learn more about our orthodontic care for the Madison area. The beautiful smile you’ve always wanted is waiting for you here!
Free Orthodontic Consultation FAQ
Is the orthodontic consultation really free?
Yes. Every first visit at Sandifer Orthodontics is complimentary, and there’s no obligation to begin treatment that day. You’ll meet Dr. Sandifer, get a full exam, and leave with a clear treatment plan.
How long does the consultation take?
Plan for about an hour. The exam and conversation with Dr. Sandifer run around half an hour, and if we take diagnostic records the same day, those add another 20 to 30 minutes.
What should I bring to my first visit?
Bring your completed intake paperwork if you filled it out ahead of time, your dental insurance information, and a list of any questions about your smile. That’s all you need to get started.
Will I get X-rays at my consultation?
Often, yes. When time allows, we take digital photographs, X-rays, and a scan of your teeth so Dr. Sandifer can plan your treatment accurately and you can avoid a second trip.