Learn more about:

Your First Visit

Your First Visit
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 rational behind his treatment recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

Records
If orthodontic treatment is indicated, the records appointment is commonly the next step. This appointment commonly consists of digital x-rays, photographs of the face and teeth, impressions for plaster study models, wax bites, and a face-bow for articulating models. Dr. Hodges will use the information from the records along with his initial evaluation findings to develop an individualized orthodontic treatment plan.

Consultation
The consultation appointment is extremely important. At this time, Dr. Hodges presents the treatment plan along with possible treatment options. At Hodges Orthodontics, we feel that it is 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 is expected of them before beginning treatment.

After Dr. Hodges has answered any questions you may have, our financial 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. You'll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for adjustments, which usually last 30-45 minutes. We make every effort to be on time for our patients, and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately as most appointments are made 4 to 8 weeks in advance.

Payment & Office Policies

Cost

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. We have payment plans to suit different budgets and several down-payment options. We also accept assignment from most insurance plans, and will be happy to file the necessary papers to the insurance company. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.

Fees

In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established this financial policy:

If full payment is made at the onset of treatment in cash or check, we will offer a 5% fee discount. (If you have insurance, we will offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee that will not be covered by insurance.)
To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months.
For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA, AMEX, and MASTERCARD.
In cases of serious delinquency, treatment will be discontinued, although we will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.

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.

Patient Forms