Your First Visit to Lafayette Orthodontics
We’re delighted to have you join us at Lafayette Orthodontics. Your journey to a confident, healthy smile starts with a warm welcome and a personalized approach to care. From your first step into our office, your comfort is our priority.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we offer convenient computerized check-in, flexible appointment reminders by text or email, and a comfortable reception area complete with a full-service coffee bar and complimentary Wi-Fi.
When you arrive, please check in with our friendly front desk team. Dr. Seth Osterman will perform a comprehensive orthodontic examination and walk you through your treatment options in detail, helping you and your family make informed decisions with confidence.
What Happens During the Initial Orthodontic Consultation?
The first visit is designed to give you clarity. You’ll leave with answers to the most important questions, including:
Is there an orthodontic concern that needs treatment?
When should treatment ideally begin?
What treatment options are recommended?
How long is treatment expected to take?
What are the costs involved?
Will any permanent teeth need to be removed, and why?
If your child is the patient, can treatment be delayed until more teeth come in or growth is completed?
We’ll also give you an estimate of treatment fees, review your orthodontic insurance if applicable, and walk you through our convenient payment options.
If we determine that orthodontic treatment is needed and you’re ready to begin your smile journey, we’ll schedule your diagnostic records and treatment start date.
Understanding Diagnostic Records
These records help us design the most effective treatment plan for your unique needs. They may include:
Digital study models of your teeth – Scans provide precise models to measure your bite and tooth relationships
Panoramic and cephalometric x-rays – These show the underlying skeletal and dental structures, root health, and tooth positioning
Photographs – Used to analyze facial proportions, balance, and contour
This information allows us to assess issues like tooth alignment, bite problems, root health and position, and overall treatment strategy.
Transparent Orthodontic Costs
We understand that cost is a concern for many families. The fee for treatment depends on the complexity of the case, but during your initial consultation, our treatment coordinator will:
Go over your customized quote
Review payment options that fit your budget
Discuss insurance coverage if applicable
We work with most insurance plans and offer flexible payment arrangements to make your investment in a confident smile as easy as possible.
What’s Included in Your Orthodontic Investment?
Your treatment fee may cover:
Active treatment: Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, your plan includes appliances, regular visits, and all necessary in-office procedures
Durable appliances: Designed to last throughout treatment when cared for properly
Final retainers: One set of retainers is included at the end of comprehensive treatment
Please Note: Additional charges may apply if appliances are lost or damaged due to improper care or breakage.
What’s Not Included?
While we aim to keep your plan comprehensive, there are a few exceptions:
Orthodontic records: X-rays, impressions, digital scans, photographs before, during, and after treatment
Services performed by other dental specialists outside of our office
Replacement appliances if they are damaged, lost, or ill-fitting due to lack of wear
- Additional retainers beyond the final set
What You’ll Need to Bring With You
Please assist us by providing the following at your first visit:
Any panoramic X-rays taken within the last few years
Your orthodontic insurance card, if applicable
Having this information allows us to provide the most accurate cost estimate and treatment timeline.
Insurance & Assignment of Benefits
We’re happy to work directly with most insurance providers to minimize your out-of-pocket expenses.
If we accept assignment of benefits, we will handle the claims and apply your insurance directly.
If we do not accept the assignment, we’ll file your claims so you can be reimbursed by your provider.
Important: If there’s a change in your insurance policy at any point during treatment, please notify our office right away so we can adjust your payment agreement accordingly.