First Visit
What To Expect
Upon arriving at Smile Bright Orthodontics, please check in with our receptionist. We look forward to welcoming you to our office.
Dr. Angelica Chaghouri will personally conduct a comprehensive clinical orthodontic examination and discuss all aspects of the recommended treatment with you.
The Purpose of the Initial Examination is to Answer:
- What type of problem, if any, is present?
- When is the appropriate time to begin treatment?
- What type of treatment is needed?
- How long will the treatment take?
- How much will the treatment cost?
What’s Next?
If orthodontic treatment is recommended, an appointment for Diagnostic Records will be scheduled. If time permits, these records can be taken during your initial visit.
What are Diagnostic Records?
- Study models of your teeth.
- Panoramic and cephalogram radiographs and tracings.
- Evaluation by the doctor to determine the best course of treatment.
What is the Cost of the Treatment?
The cost of treatment varies depending on the severity of the patient’s condition. If treatment is necessary, our treatment coordinator will discuss fees and payment options during the initial exam. We offer various payment plans to fit your budget and accept most insurance plans, striving to make orthodontic care affordable.
What Does My Investment Include?
Your investment includes:
- Orthodontic records: X-rays, study models, and a personalized growth study workup to determine your treatment objectives.
- Active treatment fees: These cover both early treatment options and comprehensive treatment with braces or Invisalign®, including all appliances, office visits, and procedures performed in the office. Appliances are designed to last the entire treatment period if the patient follows instructions. Additional fees may apply if appliances need replacement due to loss, breakage, misuse, or failure to follow dietary guidelines.
- Final retainers: One set of final retainers is provided upon completion of treatment for comprehensive (Phase II) patients. Additional retainers will incur a replacement fee if lost or broken.
What Doesn’t My Investment Include?
- External Dental Work: Work performed at dental offices outside our orthodontic practice.
- Accident or Injury Treatment: Additional treatment is required due to accidents or injuries resulting in TMJ complications, orthognathic surgery, or other unforeseen issues. Fee adjustments may be necessary in such cases.
Assignment of Benefits
- Insurance Acceptance: We accept the assignment of benefits for most insurance plans, significantly reducing the family’s out-of-pocket expenses.
- Claims Filing: If we do not accept your insurance plan’s assignment of benefits, we will file claims for you to be reimbursed directly.
- Policy Changes: If your policy changes before the full payment of the insurance benefit, please inform our office immediately so we can adjust your contract accordingly.
Office Hours
We aim to see you promptly for your appointment. Time is allocated to complete necessary procedures, provide treatment information, and answer any questions. We request that patients arrive on time to avoid delays to maintain an efficient schedule. Our office and the patients scheduled after you greatly appreciate your cooperation and consideration.