Your First Appointment

The majority of our patients are referred by their dentist, and many are related to, or are friends of past and current patients. Although it is useful for your dentist to write you a referral, it is not necessary. So whether you are looking for a consultation for you or a family member, or even a second opinion, our friendly reception team will be happy to arrange an appointment for you.

At the initial appointment, we understand that each patient's concerns are different, so it is very important for us to understand your concerns and expectations about factors such as your dental and facial appearance, your bite and any symptoms you are experiencing. We promise to give you our personal attention.

The Orthodontist will carry out a thorough examination, including measurements of your teeth, face and jaw joints. We will then discuss potential treatment options, if you are ready and suitable for treatment.

There are three common outcomes from your initial examination:

• treatment is not required
• treatment is advisable, but should be delayed until dental and facial growth growth is most appropriate for treatment to occur
• treatment is recommended, and it is best to proceed now.

If you are ready and suitable for treatment, we will offer you a separate Diagnostic records appointment, where we take an accurate model of the teeth, x-rays of the teeth and jaw structure, as well as photographs. The diagnostic records are required to assist the careful evaluation of the problems, and enable the development of an accurate and customised treatment plan for you.

After we have evaluated your records, you will be invited to make a third appointment, where we have a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals and estimated fees. We encourage questions from both the patient (and the parent), and as such, we provide ample time to answer your questions.

The fee which we discuss will cover all aspects of the proposed treatment done in our practice, lost or broken appliances. Procedures associated with the treatment but provided by other practitioners (such as extractions, gum and restorative treatments) will not be included.

There are a number of payment plans available for patients with or without health insurance.

1. An Initial Assessment appointment
2. Models, Photos and Orthodontic X-ray Records appointment if necessary
3. Treatment planning appointment

X-rays are taken by a third party for which a Medicare rebate may be available.