Complimentary Consultation

We are always excited about meeting new patients during their first visit to Ellingsen-Paxton-Johnson Orthodontics! Your initial appointment is a 70-minute visit which will give us insight into your orthodontic needs. It will consist of photos, an x-ray, and a thorough examination by Doctor Ellingsen, Dr. Paxton or Dr. Johnson. A discussion of orthodontic concerns and potential treatment options will follow.

During the initial examination for each patient, we will address the following questions that cover the basics of orthodontic treatment. We encourage you to ask questions as well.

• Is there a condition that orthodontics can address?
• Is treatment needed now, or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption, or other factors have occurred?
• What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem?
• Do any permanent teeth need to be removed?
• How long will treatment take?
• How much will it cost?
• What are my payment options?

Many times we advise that, although orthodontic treatment will be necessary in the future, younger patients are not quite ready to begin. These patients are placed in our "Growth and Guidance" program with regular checkups to follow growth and tooth eruption to determine the most appropriate time for treatment to be started.

Should orthodontic treatment be indicated additional information will be needed for our doctors to develop the appropriate, individualized treatment plan. This additional information, or diagnostic records, consist of another x-ray and impressions for study models. We know your time is valuable, so we often reserve time following the exam for these records. This will take approximately 15 additional minutes.

In certain cases, an additional consultation appointment will be scheduled to discuss treatment needs after careful analysis of the diagnostic records. We feel it is important to analyze each patient's specific needs, because in-depth planning leads to superior results and higher patient satisfaction. We insist that our patients leave the office with a clear understanding of their specific needs, what the treatment will consist of, and how long it will take. It's our goal to answer all your questions as well as communicate with your dentist to coordinate overall dental care.

Regular Appointments

The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. After that you'll see us at regular intervals every 4 to 8 weeks for adjustments. Adjustments generally take 20 to 40 minutes, depending upon treatment needs. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us 48 hours prior to your appointment. Cancel only if it is an emergency. It may be difficult to reschedule at your preferred time since most appointments are made 4 to 8 weeks in advance.

Our office is unique in having three orthodontists, providing built-in second opinions and three sets of eyes to assure patients receive the best possible orthodontic care. Patients will see all of the doctors during their treatment.

Patient Form

You can conveniently fill out our health history form online.
Click here to go to the form.

Financial Options

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.

It is our mission to provide you with affordable, high quality treatment that fits your budget! We offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs. Please ask us about financing options, credit card payments, and bank drafts. We thoroughly explain your options so that we can accommodate your needs.

Insurance

If your insurance covers orthodontic treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. Many insurance policies have a lifetime orthodontic benefit, differing from regular dental insurance. Insurance policies and orthodontic coverage vary, but please be assured that we will review your insurance and act as your advocate to help you receive your maximum benefit. Once treatment has started, we will file your claims.

To help us with your insurance filing, please complete the insurance questions on our questionnaire. Please remember that orthodontic insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If, during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for all charges.

Convenient Online Services

We know how busy you are. That is why we're committed to providing you superior, leading-edge service. With our secure online service you will be able to:

• View your appointment and account information any time;
• Sign up for email or text appointment reminders;
• Check your payment history and see current charges;
• Print out flex spending reimbursement and tax receipts.