Office Policies

Your First Visit

During you first visit you will be able to tour our office, meet with our Treatment Coordinator and have an extensive Oral Exam by Dr. Marc. We will also be happy to answer any questions on concerns you may have. At this time you may be given the answers to such questions as:

• Is treatment needed ?
• What type of treatment is needed ?
• When is the best time to start ?
• What is the approximate fee ?
• How long will it take ?

At the first visit to the orthodontist, we may take impressions to create diagnostic study models for further evaluation. Additional records such as photos of the patient’s face and teeth, and X-rays, are 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. These impressions and records are included free of charge in your complimentary initial exam. After the doctor has evaluated your records, we discuss your treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your particular case.

Regular Appointments

The appointment at which you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from 40 to 60 minutes. You’ll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for adjustments, which takes 10 to 40 minutes. Our regular office hours are Monday to Thursday from 7:10 AM to 5:00 PM.  We are closed on some Thursdays and open on some Fridays.  Please contact us at 713-468-9669 for details.  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 and cancel only if there is an emergency. Please remember it is difficult to reschedule you since most appointments are made 4 to 8 weeks in advance. Broken appointments also add to your overall treatment time.

Investment

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 work hard to make orthodontics affordable.

In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established this financial policy:

• Our payment plan typically involves a down payment for initial installment of appliances followed by monthly installments. (We do not charge interest or financing fees.)
• For your convenience, we accept payment by Visa and Mastercard.
• If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount.
• In cases of serious delinquency, treatment will be postponed, although we will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.

Insurance
If you have insurance, we will help you receive the maximum benefits from your company. We will file the original paperwork and the necessary continuations for you to receive your reimbursements.

Patient Forms

You will be asked to complete a Medical and Dental history and a few other forms prior to your New Patient Exam.