First Visit
 Welcome to our office! We understand that each patient has different health needs, aesthetic goals, and expectations about treatment. We have set aside a special time to discuss questions regarding you or your child's orthodontic care. After you have scheduled a new patient consultation, a welcome packet will be sent to your home. For your first visit, please take the time to complete the new patient form. By completing this form prior to the consultation, we can begin your visit without delay.Upon your arrival to our office you will always be kindly greeted by our receptionist. She will assist you in getting checked in at the Patient Sign-In Terminal and will notify our patient coordinators of your arrival. Our patient coordinators will greet you in our waiting room and escort you or your child to our consultation room for your first visit with Dr. Kallis. After the consultation, our patient coordinators will escort you and/or your child to obtain Diagnostic Records prior to the exam. After Diagnostic Records are obtained, you will meet with Dr. Kallis to discuss treatment. Because the Diagnostic Records are obtained at your first visit, Dr. Kallis is able to obtain basic information regarding any current or potential orthodontic problems. He can then properly address your individual concerns and needs. If treatment is indicated, Dr. Kallis will discuss the:
All information will be conveyed with strong visuals using our state-of-the-art IACT graphic communications system. Once the initial examination has been completed, our treatment coordinator will provide you with:
Please allow one hour for your first visit to our office. Diagnostic Records Orthodontic records are obtained at the initial consultation appointment. Records confirm Dr. Kallis’ diagnosis and treatment plan, and also serve as documentation of your teeth, lips and profile. Typical records include: Panoramic Radiograph : A Panoramic Radiograph reveals the position of both erupted and unerupted teeth, missing or extra teeth, general condition of bone and supporting tissue, and any possible decay. Cephalometric Radiograph : The Cephalometric Radiograph is a side picture of the head. This picture is traced and measured to illustrate the outline of the nose, lips and chin; how the upper and lower jaw is related to the head; and how the front teeth are related to each jaw. Study Models : Study models are an exact duplication of your teeth in white plaster. These help the orthodontist to evaluate the alignment and relationship of teeth and the space available for moving teeth. Extraoral Photos : Used to help evaluate facial balance and soft tissue contours, the extraoral photos consist of a relaxed and a smiling frontal picture of the face and a side profile. Intraoral Photos : Intraoral photos help evaluate the appearance and condition of the enamel and gingival tissues. What is the length of treatment? The length of treatment varies according to the patient’s orthodontic problem. It depends on the severity of the bite, the degree of correction, age and the level of cooperation achieved. Most cases are completed between 18-24 months. We constantly review treatment progress in order to give you an update regarding you or your child's treatment status at each appointment. What if treatment is not recommended? If treatment is not recommended, a recall appointment will be scheduled at either 6 or 12 months, to monitor the child's growth and dental development. Ninety-five percent of children seen by Dr. Kallis should be monitored until the majority of permanent teeth have erupted. This protocol limits the child to one phase of orthodontic treatment and reduces both the total treatment time and the cost of orthodontic treatment. What happens once the braces have been put on? Dr. Kallis and his staff stay in close communication with your regular dentist. It is necessary that check-ups and cleanings continue to be scheduled throughout orthodontic treatment every six months. The patient must also maintain regular visits to our office throughout your orthodontic treatment. The visits are usually scheduled every eight to ten weeks to monitor your progress and make adjustments. Dr. Kallis and his staff cannot do all the work for you. Excellent orthodontic treatment results can only be obtained with the cooperation of patients and parents. Successful treatment is a team effort: patients, parents, staff and the orthodontist working together. The rewards are your beautiful smile, healthy teeth and new confidence. |
