First Visit

Initial Visit

Our objective is to make sure your visits with us will be pleasant and informative. Your initial appointment will consist of an examination and a discussion of potential treatment options. There is no charge for this appointment. This important visit will address the orthodontic needs of you or your child.

Please assist us by providing the following information at the time of your first visit:

• Any X-rays (if applicable)
• A list of medications you are presently taking
• If you have medical or dental insurance, bring the necessary completed forms. This will save time and allow us to help you process any claims.

Please alert the office if you have a medical condition that may be of concern (i.e. diabetes, high blood pressure, artificial heart valves and joints, rheumatic fever, etc.) or if you are on any medication (i.e. heart medications, aspirin, anticoagulant therapy, etc.)

If for some reason you cannot make it to your appointment, please contact our office at (404) 325-8116. By doing so you allow another patient to use that time as well as reschedule your appointment. If it is after hours, leave your name and number and a brief message on our answering machine and we will return your call in the morning.

Diagnostic Records & Treatment Planning

 If it is determined that treatment is indicated, you will be scheduled for diagnostic records.  These records usually consist of study models, diagnostic photographs and orthodontic x-rays.  We use a Planmeca Radiographic X-Ray Unit to take all x-rays.  This unit is one of the newest generation digital x-ray units which produce a superior, radiographic image for orthodontic records at significantly reduced radiation levels compared to traditional units.  Once these orthodontic records have been obtained, Dr. Clinebell will review them and determine a specific treatment plan for your orthodontic needs.  We will then meet with you to review your treatment plan.  During this appointment, we will use our Interactive Communications computer program that uses graphics, animation, and morphing.  We find this to be beneficial to educate our patients about orthodontic concepts and treatment individually tailored to each person.  We will then set up all necessary appointments to begin your orthodontic treatment.

Successive Visits

Periodic visits are an important part of orthodontic treatment. Generally, we will want to see you every 4-10 weeks to check your progress and make adjustments to your braces. During this time, you will need to keep appointments, follow instructions, as well as practice good oral hygiene and proper nutrition. Also, you should continue to visit your dentist regularly.

Length of Treatment

Braces may be on between 6 months to 30 months, or longer depending on the age of the patient, the severity of the problem, the patient's cooperation and the degree of movement possible.

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. We would like to reinforce the need to continue regular visits with your family dentist because we are only an aid to your family dentist and not a replacement.

Please contact our office 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 complimentary consultation will allow us to better understand your needs.