Your Orthodontic Journey
We sincerely appreciate your selection of our office to care for your orthodontic needs. Our goal is to provide you with the very best treatment available so you may achieve and maintain optimum dental health.
In order to begin your journey at our state-of-the-art facilities, you will be introduced to one of our talented and knowledgeable treatment coordinators. It will be her job to guide you, until your treatment has started.
We ask that you provide the following information at this visit:
• Any prior dental x-rays (if available)
• A list of medications you are presently taking
• A Completed Patient Information Form (click here)
NB: Please alert the office if you have any medical condition or if you are on any medication.
We seek to ensure that your visits with us will be pleasant and informative.
Orthodontic Records
The Treatment Coordinator will take orthodontic records which include impressions of your teeth, pictures of your teeth and face, as well as x-ray images.
Treatment Planning
Once these records have been obtained, the Orthodontist will review them, conduct a thorough examination and determine a specific treatment plan for your orthodontic needs. In most cases, we will immediately set up the necessary appointments to begin orthodontic treatment with you.
Length & Cost of Treatment
On average braces are worn for 12 to 36 months depending on the age of the patient, the severity of the problem, the patient’s cooperation and the degree of movement possible. The treatment coordinator will also discuss the financial arrangements available to you.
Successive Visits
Periodic visits are an important part of orthodontic treatment. Generally, we will want to see you every 6 to 8 weeks to check your progress and make adjustments to your braces. During this time, you will need to keep appointments, follow instructions, and practice good oral hygiene. Also continue to visit your dentist every 4 to 6 months.
Retention Phase
Once your braces are removed, retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums and muscles adapt to the new positions of the teeth. The retention period is an important part of your overall treatment and should not be neglected!
Dental Care
Before any orthodontic treatment, your family dentist should make certain that all cavities have been treated and the health of your gums and underlying bone are free of periodontal disease.
In addition, your dentist or an oral surgeon may need to remove any teeth that Dr. Meeks/Allen prescribed to correct your bite. Your family dentist should also schedule cleaning and cavity checkup visits during your orthodontic care. We would like to reinforce the need to keep your regular visits with your family dentist because we are only an aid to your family dentist and not a replacement.
Please contact our office at (876) 927-5552 if you have any questions. The timing of your treatment is very important. You or your child may or may not be ready for treatment. Therefore, a consultation will allow us to better understand your needs.