Step 1: New Patient Exam
The new patient exam will take approximately 45 minutes and will hopefully be very informative for you. Please complete both sides of our orthodontic patient information form and bring it with you to this first visit. We have provided them for download here on our website.

• Child Orthodontic Patient Information Form
• Adult Orthodontic Patient Information Form

We know your time is valuable and this will expedite the examination process. Our treatment coordinator will review your responses and discuss the areas of concern. She will discuss our practice philosophies and give you a tour of our beautiful office. Dr. Searcy will then perform an informal oral and facial examination, discuss his findings and hopefully answer any questions you may have concerning treatment, fees, etc.

Depending on the stages of growth and development and the severity of the problems, Dr. Searcy will recommend one of the following:

• Take no further steps at this time.
• Initiate a pre-orthodontic guidance program and reevaluate at 3, 6 or 12-month intervals.
• Begin treatment.

If a panoramic X-ray is needed at this examination, we can take it at this time. If your dentist has taken one in the last few months, please bring it with you to this appointment. There is no charge for this initial examination.

Step 2: Initial Records
If you choose to begin treatment at this time, further information will be needed. This information, "Orthodontic Records," consist of the following:

• Orthodontic study models (molds of teeth)
• Color photographs of the face and mouth
• One or two X-rays of the head (cephalometric)
• One X-ray of all the teeth and supporting bones (panoramic)

We may be able to take these records the same day as the initial exam, if our schedule permits or you may elect to schedule a separate "records" appointment. These records provide the baseline information for making a thorough diagnosis. The cost of records is $290.00 and is payable at the time of this procedure.

We are acutely aware of your concern about "unnecessary X-rays" and want to assure you that X-rays will only be taken when necessary for proper diagnosis and follow-up. Our X-ray equipment is state-of-the-art and produces minimal radiation.

Step 3: Treatment Consultation
Dr. Searcy will do an extensive evaluation of the diagnostic records and formulate a treatment plan, which addresses all of the orthodontic concerns. At this appointment, our treatment coordinator will discuss his treatment goals and proposed treatment plan. If the patient is a child, it is not necessary for him/her to be present but is most welcome to attend. A specific fee for the entire treatment will be given at this time. Dr. Searcy will answer any other questions you may have about your treatment.

We hope this answers most of the questions you may have about this important step. Our well-trained team of health professionals strives to provide the finest orthodontic treatment available in a warm and caring atmosphere.