New Patients

OFFICE VISITS

At the first visit, Dr. Hodges performs an initial clinical evaluation to determine the timing and potential need for orthodontic treatment. He will explain the rationale behind his treatment recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

Consultation The consultation appointment is extremely important. At this time, the Dr. Hodges presents the treatment plan along with possible treatment options. At Hodges Orthodontics, we feel it’s necessary that everyone is fully educated and informed of the proposed treatment before orthodontic appliances are placed. This will ensure that everyone involved in the treatment process knows what to expect and what’s expected of them before beginning treatment. After Dr. Hodges has answered any questions you may have, our financial/treatment coordinator will discuss the treatment fee and financing options.

Regular Appointments The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. After that, you’ll likely see us at regular intervals four to ten weeks apart for adjustments. These appointments usually last 30 to 60 minutes. We make every effort to be on time for our patients. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately because most appointments are made six to eight weeks in advance. We will do our best to accommodate before- and after-school appointments. However, due to appointment type, length, or availability, these prime appointment times are not always available. With this in mind, we do provide school and work excuses for each visit.

Payment and Office Policies COST The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s malocclusion. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. We have payment plans to suit various budgets and several down-payment options. We also accept assignment from most PPO insurance plans, and will be happy to file the necessary papers to the insurance company.

INSURANCE If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. We ask that you assign your insurance benefit to us. The balance will be arranged for you to pay (see above). Professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to an insurance company. Thus, the insurance company is responsible to the patient and the patient is responsible to the doctor. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf. Please note, estimated insurance coverage is not a guarentee of payment. Responsible party/patient is responsible for payment of insurance portion upon discontinued coverage or insurance claim denial. Therefore, any portion not covered by insurance will be the reponsible party/patient’s responsibility.