Roberts and deMarsche Orthodontics

The Consultation:
The initial consultation is free. At this appointment we will answer any questions that you may have,
such as:
> the health or cosmetic benefit of straightening your teeth
> the total treatment time (including frequency and length of office visits)
> the best type of braces ( clear or metal, fixed or removable, Invisalign, lingual)
> the cost of your treatment, including payment plans and your orthodontic insurance coverage
> coordination of treatment with your general dentist or dental specialist

Payment Plans:
We have payment plans (no interest charge) that spread the cost of treatment over the estimated treatment time. Usually, there is a down payment (the first monthÕs payment) of 25%, with the balance spread over the estimated months of treatment time (usually 12 to 18 months). We also have available, through Orthodontists Fee Plan, no down payment plans, that spread payments over a greater period of time.

Dental Insurance:
We participate with most private insurance plans. If you have orthodontic insurance coverage, please bring an insurance form with you so that we may rapidly determine your benefit. For your convenience, we will accept the insurance benefit directly from the provider, and coordinate all necessary communications and paperwork.

Flexible Spending Accounts:
If you work for a company that provides a flexible spending account, or a Òflex-planÓ, we will explain to you the mechanism for saving 35 to 40% of your treatment cost through paying with pre-tax dollars.

Adult Orthodontics:
Unlike traditional orthodontic offices that cater primarily to young patients, our offices are designed to also be comfortable environments for adults. We offer individual treatment rooms for patient privacy and make every effort to accommodate patients with busy schedules. Treatment plans vary greatly. Limited tooth movement is common for adults, so these treatment times can be as short as 3 to 6 months, whereas comprehensive treatment is usually 18 to 24 months.

Children's Orthodontics:
The best age to begin orthodontic treatment depends upon the nature of the dental problem and the Òdental ageÓ (age based upon the development of the dentition) of the patient. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that children should be first examined at the age of seven. If there exists a severe protrusion of the upper incisors, for instance, the teeth should be retracted, or moved back, early (age seven or eight) in order to protect them from injury. Phase I treatment usually lasts 9 to 12 months and is followed by Phase II (comprehensive) treatment a couple of years later. There are other indications for early treatment, but in total, only about 20% of those who need orthodontics need early treatment. Our office also credits most of the cost of Phase I orthodontic treatment to our comprehensive treatment fee, which means that parents do not pay ÒtwiceÓ for braces when there is the need for a two phase treatment. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment usually begins between ages 10 and 12, in the late mixed dentition.