Resources for New Patients at Chinitz Orthodontics

What Happens At My First Orthodontic Appointment?

Your first visit to Chinitz Orthodontics is completely complimentary and designed to give you a clear understanding of your smile, your options, and what comes next. We’ll use a digital scanner to take a detailed look at your teeth, so there are no messy impressions, and you’ll meet one of our doctors to talk through whether treatment is recommended and which options may be the best fit for you.

Here’s what you can expect during your visit:

• Make sure to have you Health History forms filled out (this includes recent dental history and insurance information)
• Meet with our experienced orthodontic assistants take a digital scan of your teeth
• Meet with your doctor to determine if you need treatment.
• Ask ALL your questions
• If treatment is recommended, meet with our rockstar treatment coordinators to go over finances and next steps
• Schedule your next appointment!
• Leave with a smile!

This visit is meant to be a partnership between the patient and the orthodontist. We encourage you to bring all of your questions, concerns, and notes about what works for your lifestyle to this appointment. Dr. Chinitz and our treatment coordinator will work with you to determine the best option for you moving forward, whether it be braces or clear aligners. For children, early treatment may be the best option – or monitoring their growth may be a better fit.

How Do I Pay For Orthodontics?

Our goal is to ensure that excellent care is accessible to as many patients as possible. We accept a large list of insurance carriers, take HSA and FSA payments, offer multiple discounts to those who qualify, and provide interest-free in-house payment plans. We’re happy to discuss all of your financial needs at your complimentary first appointment.

Sometimes, issues with braces, clear aligners, or retainers happen during or after treatment, many of which are common and easily managed at home. Here’s what to do in case you run into any of these issues:

If a bracket comes loose from the wire or breaks, avoid wiggling or pulling on it. If it’s still attached to the wire, cover it with orthodontic wax (that we’ll provide you with) to reduce movement and irritation. If it falls off, don’t worry – give us a call to set up a repair appointment.

Sometimes, braces wires may move during treatment, which can lead to irritation or poking of your cheek or gums. You can try to gently push the wire back into place with a clean pencil eraser, or cover the sharp end with orthodontic wax to protect your mouth. If irritation persists, contact us or bring up your concern at your next appointment.

It’s normal to experience mild soreness after starting treatment or after an adjustment or a new clear aligner. We recommend eating soft or cold foods, rinsing with warm salt water, or using over-the-counter pain relief (as recommended by your doctor).

If you break your retainer or lose a clear aligner, call us. We can help determine whether you need a replacement or if you can wait until your next appointment. As a rule, always keep your previous clear aligner tray as a backup!