Can you give me information about the scheduling of appointments?- To schedule an appointment call us at 727-797-5460
OUR SCHEDULE IS "DESIGNED FOR YOU"! We are aware of the concern many have about mid-morning appointments and we want you to know we do all that we can to minimize the number of times we need to see you during the mid-day! We work hard to be sensitive to your scheduling needs. Over the course of treatment, you will need occasional longer appointments that will be scheduled during your work or school day. While school & work are very important, the physical and psychological benefits of orthodontic care will last a lifetime. We are confident you will find that the increase in self-esteem and self-confidence will more than offset any temporary disruption caused by missing a small part of the school (or work) day.
[back to top] Will I be seen on time?Our goal is to see each patient at their scheduled time! While we can't always be right on time, we do everything possible to see you without delay. Arriving late for an appointment may mean that patients scheduled after you have to be seen late. Honoring our patient's appointment time is important to us. Occasionally, if you arrive late, we may have to ask you to reschedule. We know your time is valuable and we do all we can to keep right on time!
[back to top] I would like to have all of my appointments after 3 PM. Can that be arranged?The first hour of the day (8:00-9:00 AM) and the entire afternoon (after 2:30 PM) are reserved for the shorter appointments. This allows us to offer the greatest number of before and after school (or work) appointments to all of our patients. The longer, more complicated appointments are scheduled in the mid-day times. We would not want to disappoint you and so we must be candid and say that during the course of treatment it will be necessary for every patient to have some mid-morning appointments scheduled. The majority of our patients are of school age and we work closely with each area school to meet their guidelines for excused absences. You can feel confident that we will schedule as many before or after school/work appointments as possible!
[back to top] What if I'm not able to keep my appointment?We have a great telephone reminder service that will call you before your scheduled appointment and will give you a chance to let us know about any unexpected changes in your schedule! The advance notice will allow us to utilize that time for another patient. With 24 hour notice, we can change most appointments to a more convenient time at no charge.
[back to top]
What is the appropriate age to begin orthodontic treatment?The American Association of Orthodontists suggests that every child have an orthodontic screening by age seven. At this age many young people begin treatment at approximately twelve years of age when most of the permanent teeth erupt or have erupted. However, the American Associate of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic screening by age seven. Many severe problems can be prevented from fully developing by initiating early orthodontic treatment. Dr. Turner can give you an idea of what to expect in the future. He may alleviate your concerns or discuss the benefits of possible treatment.
[back to top] Am I too old to have braces?Dr. Turner has many adult patients. As long as adults have healthy teeth and supporting structures, orthodontics can be done at any age (including patients who are senior citizens). The more complex
problems may require coordination with your general dentist and other specialists.
[back to top] How long will treatment take?Many factors determine length of treatment - type of bite problem, response to treatment, and cooperation on the part of the patient. The treatment time most commonly ranges from six (6) to thirty (30) months. Dr. Turner can give you an idea of treatment length at your initial appointment.
[back to top] How much does treatment cost?The cost of treatment is dependent on the difficulty of the problem. Dr. Turner can give you an estimate of the treatment fee at your initial appointment. We offer many flexible finance plans.
[back to top] Will insurance pay for orthodontic care?Many patients have orthodontic benefits as part of their dental plan. Please check with your insurance or benefits manager as to the extent of your coverage. Not all patients with dental coverage have orthodontic coverage. This is dependent on the employer's decision as to the extent of the coverage they wish to purchase. Orthodontic coverage differs from regular dental coverage in that the insured individual usually has a lifetime maximum benefit. This benefit is paid as a percentage of the orthodontic fee until the maximum benefit is reached.
[back to top] What should I do if something comes loose or gets broken?Call us right away! We don't want you to wait until your next scheduled appointment. Repair of broken or damaged appliances may require more time than your next scheduled visit allows. It may be best to reschedule so that you will not be inconvenienced by the need for an additional appointment. We're never more than a phone call away. Your comfort is very important to us and we want you to know that we're always here when you need us! You can find some additional information in the First Aid section.
[back to top] We appreciate being your orthodontic office and each one of our team takes great pride in doing all that we can to provide our patients with the best orthodontic experience available. | 
