- When should my child first see the orthodontist?
Generally, your child should first see the orthodontist around age seven when the four upper and lower permanent incisor teeth have grown in. Your child's dentist may make a referral to the orthodontist, but you do not need a referral to come in and see us. If you prefer, go ahead and schedule an examination appointment with the orthodontist. The initial exam is complimentary as a service to your dentist. Some orthodontic problems are best treated at an early age. The treatments often use growth to make corrections. Other treatments are best left until all the permanent teeth have erupted. The orthodontist can explain which problems are treated when in more detail.
- When are adults too old to have braces?
Adults can have treatment at almost any age. Approximately 25% of our patients are over 18 years age, with our oldest patients being in their sixties. A new treatment option for adults is the Invisalign® System. See our special Invisalign Treatment section for more answers to your questions about Invisalign. So you see, "Never too late.
- Do braces hurt?
It does not hurt to have the braces applied to your teeth. This is especially true when newer bonding techniques are used to apply the braces. We use a technique called indirect bonding where the braces are pre-fitted to a model of your teeth prior to the actual application to the teeth. The braces are then applied all at once using a custom fitted tray. While it takes us nearly a week to prepare the fitting of the braces, it only takes about half an hour to apply the braces to your teeth; and does not hurt at all! Usually within 6-12 hours after you have had the braces applied, your teeth will be sore when you bite into food. This soreness to biting lasts three to five days and reoccurs each time the wires are adjusted. During this time you should be good to yourself. Eat foods that are soft, use the orthodontic wax for sore spots and take aspirin, Tylenol, or Advil for pain relief.
- How do I know if I need braces or a retainer?
Although retainers generally work best on smaller, localized problems and braces on bigger, more generalized problems, only the orthodontist knows for sure which will work for you. After an examination the doctor can tell you. Remember the initial examination is free. Just call the office to make an appointment.
- How can I make an appointment if I am a first time patient?
Call our office. The receptionist will be glad to make an appointment. She will need some information like your name, address, phone number and appointment time so plan to spend a few minutes on the phone when you call. If the office is not currently open, you can leave an e-mail for the receptionist. Be sure to leave your name, voice phone number and a convenient time to return your call during our regular business hours.
- What will happen at my first visit to the office?
The first visit is designed to answer all your questions about potential orthodontic treatment. You will not get any braces or retainers at that time. Before you arrive a welcoming letter will be sent to you. It will contain a new patient medical & dental history form. The reverse side requests information about insurance and the person who will be financially responsible for the account. If you need a copy of this form you can download them from this website. Please bring the form back with you to the first visit. Please arrive a few minutes early for the appointment. You will be greeted by our New Patient Coordinator, Treatment Coordinator Cari Wilcock. She will help you with any questions you might have before meeting the doctor. Next Dr. Johnson will look at your teeth and tell you what he sees. If orthodontic treatment is indicated, we will try to give you an estimate of treatment time, the appliances needed, and the fees associated with the treatment.
- Is there any charge for the initial evaluation visit?
No. The initial examination is complimentary. We believe you should be able to find out if treatment is indicated and what the costs might be without a charge.
- Can I make financial arrangements to pay any fees over time?
Upon approval of credit you may choose a plan that allows for payment of orthodontic fees over the treatment time. Most people do use a payment plan to pay for treatment and there are several different options to choose from. So, there is a plan that will fit every family's needs. If Dr. Johnson recommends treatment, you will have the opportunity to discuss payment arrangements with the Financial Coordinator at the initial examination visit. Whenever possible we will quote the exact fee for all treatment and outline expected insurance coverage when applicable.
- Do you accept MasterCard & Visa?
We do accept MasterCard and Visa. We can also set up your account so that your charge card can be debited each month. If you would like to take advantage of this feature, call our Financial Coordinator at 510-521-9934. Or send her an e-mail.
- Can I start treatment without making an initial down payment, making only monthly payments during treatment?
Upon approval of credit, some payment plan options do not require an initial down payment. We also work directly with Orthodontist's Fee Plan (OFP) which offers several plans with low monthly payments.
- Do you accept third party insurance coverage as payment?
We are members of Delta Dental Plan of California and accept payments from them and any other insurance company that is not a closed panel (HMO, DMO, PPO). Closed panel insurance companies require the patient to pick an orthodontist from a limited group of providers that are paying members. We are not members of any of these plans. If you would like to know why, be sure to ask the doctor.
- Can I get a second opinion on treatment recommended by another orthodontist?
Second opinions are welcome. There is no charge for an initial examination, however a complete consultation with full records and treatment plan is charged the usual and customary consultation fee. Orthodontic treatment, while based on scientific principles, contains a certain amount of artistry. Each orthodontist may see the problems and approach ideal treatment somewhat differently. Dr. Johnson would be happy to discuss any differences.
- Can I bring in a sibling for a free consultation?
We love to see families in our office. We only ask that you call ahead and let us set aside the appropriate time in the schedule for a complete and thorough examination.