Our Office Policies

Scheduling Appointments

We are sensitive to the fact that families have many obligations during the day. We want to see you on time, have enough time to do the necessary procedures, answer any questions and update you on your progress. Arriving on time will help us to accomplish all the treatment planned for that appointment. All future appointments should be made before leaving the office, as you will normally be seen every six to eight weeks. Once your braces are removed and retainers are in place, the time between appointments is greatly extended.

Missed Appointments

We ask for at least 24 hours notice if you have to reschedule your appointment. Missed appointments and numerous appointment changes will result in an extension of your treatment time. Our goal is to keep your treatment on time by scheduling the appropriate appointments. Please make every effort to keep your appointment.

Financial

The philosophy of the office is to provide the highest quality of orthodontic care. Our fees vary according to the complexity of your case, length of treatment, your cooperation as well as other factors. An estimated cost and treatment length will be discussed at the first consultation appointment. Full diagnostic records are required to establish a specific fee and an accurate treatment time.

Our costs do not include extractions, general dental care or fees by other dental specialists.

Payment for records is due at time of service.

Fees

The records/consultation fee includes the following:

• study models, facial and oral photographs and x-rays
• diagnosis and treatment planning
• presentation of Dr. Bales' treatment recommendations

Treatment

The treatment fee includes all active orthodontic care, insertion and adjustment of retainer for one year after removal of braces.

Payment Plans

We offer several payment options for comprehensive treatment:

Discount: We offer a bookkeeping discount if payment is made in full at the start of active treatment. This discount applies to comprehensive treatment over $3000.00.

Monthly Payments: This consists of an initial payment, followed by regular monthly payments. The length of your payments is flexible and can be discussed. There is no interest. You can leave post-dated cheques or an imprint of a credit card to make these payments.

Insurance

We are happy to confirm benefits and file insurance claims for our patients. We do not accept assignment of the benefits. You are responsible to pay us directly, either in full or with monthly payments and the insurance company will reimburse you.

Many insurance companies require pre-authorization.We will send an estimate to the insurance company as required so that they can assess your coverage and eligibility for benefits.

Payments

All payments for orthodontics services are made directly to our office by the person financially responsible for treatment. We do not accept payments directly from your insurance company. You are responsible to Dr. Bales for all services rendered. Your insurance company is responsible to you. It is important to keep your account up to date.