The happiest patients are the cooperative ones. They will have fewer problems in treatment by carefully following instructions. They usually have a maximum of progress within a minimum period of time. There is satisfaction in knowing that one has done their part and is reaping the benefits. Wearing headgear, lip bumper, or elastics is a must! Orthodontic treatment success is very dependent upon patient cooperation.
At the end of the first appointment when the appliances are placed on the teeth, the parent and patient is given a thorough explanation and instructions as to the proper way to care for the new orthodontic bands, brackets and wires. Tooth brushing technique and the use of wax for emergencies is covered. The reasons for brushing in a specific way are explained and questions are invited and answered to the best of our ability. Understanding brings about cooperation and appreciation of the care of teeth and orthodontic appliances. A qualified dental assistant will review the use of fluoride, emergency procedures, headgear wear. etc.
An Orthodontist is a highly qualified individual who after studying and obtaining a dental degree has pursued at least two or three additional years of formal University education to obtain specialty qualification in orthodontics and facial growth and development. The happiest moment for an orthodontist is the completion of a difficult treatment and observing the joy of a patient with a "new" appearance and healthy dentition.
The first appointment usually requires one hour for appliances to be made, cemented or bonded onto the teeth, and for explanations and instructions. These long appointments are scheduled in the morning or early afternoon. We have limited after school appointments, and they must be confined to the short procedures which take a minimum of time. Only in this way can we see a maximum number of patients during the after- school hours. This is fair to everyone. Long appointments cannot be made after school hours or on Saturday mornings.
After the initial long appointment, we make every effort to schedule the in-school appointments during a study period or some other time which will not result in the patient having to miss work they will need to make up. We will work with the patient and their school or work schedule on an individual basis and we will cooperate in every way possible to minimize the inconvenience. With mutual understanding of each other’s problems, scheduling does not, as a rule, present problems. In order to be fair to every patient, we cannot make exceptions to our scheduling requirements.