FAQ

Do you charge for an initial visit?

No. As a courtesy to you and your family dentist, we will always discuss any orthodontic needs you may have without charging a fee for the initial consultation.  

At what age do you start seeing patients?

The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children be seen for the first time by age 7.  While not every patient needs orthodontic treatment at this age, it is a great time to meet our team, and start planning any future orthodontic needs!

How long will the first visit take?

Your first visit is scheduled for 45 minutes. Dr. Phillis will start with a clinical exam of your teeth.  This will be followed by imaging with our clinical team.  Dr. Phillis will then review all your images and measurements with you, and discuss any treatment recommendations.  Renee, our financial and treatment coordinator, will review any fees associated with treatment, insurance information, and answer any additional questions you may have.  

We will also provide you with a written summary of your appointment!

Do you take patients transferring from out of town?

Yes we do. We handle a patient transferring into our office from another city just like a new patient. We gather complete diagnostic records to show the current status and propose treatment to complete the work that has been started.

Do you have any adult patients?

Absolutely. We have adult patients of many ages!  Newer cosmetic appliances are making adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient.

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

An orthodontist is trained as a general dentist, but has had at least 2 more years of full-time training in orthodontics and graduated with a nationally accepted specialty certificate. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics.

Do you have flexible scheduling?

Yes! We make every effort to coordinate your orthodontic care in a way that fits for your schedule. If it is necessary to schedule an appointment during school hours, we are able to provide you with a medical excuse note for your academic administration.  We offer early morning, and evening appointments for your convenience.  If you your schedule has limited time availability, we often encourage you to schedule multiple appointments in advance!

Do you see patients for emergencies?

Yes, for serious emergencies including facial trauma, extreme pain, or bleeding, we have an after-hours emergency line to connect you directly with Dr. Phillis or a member of the team.  To reach this line outside of business hours, please call 978-256-2526 and follow the prompts. 

For loose brackets, or pokey wires, we request you call during regular business hours.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes.  Whether or not you have dental insurance, we will structure a convenient no-interest payment plan that will allow you to pay for orthodontic services over a period of time that usually coincides with your treatment plan.

How do you handle insurance?

After verification of coverage, we will agree to bill and collect from an insurance carrier. However, we ask patients to understand that if coverage ceases or changes, the patient is still responsible for the agreed upon fee.

Do you take American Express, Master Card and/or Visa?

Yes, we accept all major credit cards.

Do you have auto-pay?

Yes! We have auto-pay available for credit cards, debit cards, and ACH drafts. 

Do you give family courtesy discounts?

We have special programs and fees for multiple patients from the same family.

Do retainers need to be worn after braces?

Yes, typically retainers are worn full-time for about 3 months after completing treatment, followed by nighttime wear indefinitely.

Why do teeth get crooked after wearing braces or aligners?

Teeth move throughout life whether you have had orthodontic treatment or not.  It is part of the natural aging process. This is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely to maintain your orthodontic results over  lifetime.