Your First Visit
There is no charge for your initial consultation at Schumacher Orthodontics. During this visit, we want to get to know you on a personal level and learn about your expectations for your orthodontic treatment.
At this appointment, Dr. Schumacher will answer the three most common questions patients want to know: 1) When can treatment start? 2) How long will it take? 3) How much will it cost?
All patients must have a complete set of records taken before treatment can begin. If there is time, records can be taken the same day as the initial visit. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of the 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 treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.
Consultation
If a definitive treatment plan can be made upon initial evaluation, we will discuss that with you during your first visit. However, in difficult cases, additional time may be needed to evaluate the patient’s records thoroughly. In these situations, an additional appointment may be scheduled to discuss treatment options.
Regular Appointments
Once Dr. Schumacher has determined you are ready for treatment, we’ll schedule your bonding appointment. Schumacher Orthodontics uses an indirect bonding technique to place brackets. Indirect bonding guarantees precise bracket placement and shortens the time it takes to place the braces. This appointment will take about one hour.
You’ll then see us at regular intervals every four to eight weeks for adjustments, which usually takes about 15 minutes. 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 immediately. Cancel only if it is an emergency.
Payment and Office Policies
Cost
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. One of the primary goals of Schumacher Orthodontics is to provide the highest quality of service at an affordable price.
Fees
In an effort to keep orthodontic fees manageable while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we offer various methods of payment:
- If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount.
- We offer an in-office financing plan at zero interest to you.
- For your convenience, we can set up your monthly payments to be automatically deducted from your bank account.
Insurance
If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. However, the treatment fee is ultimately the responsibility of the patient. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.