Get Started

Prior to your first visit

We understand that choosing to have orthodontic treatment is a big decision and we respect your reasons for improving your smile and your oral health. Prior to your initial visit our Patient Coordinator will be calling you to answer any questions you may have.

Please take some time to complete our Medical History and Privacy Policy forms which are available on this website or in the package mailed to you. Bring these completed forms with you to this first appointment.

A fee of $90 per child and $160 per adult (18 and over) will apply for this initial one hour consultation. This is payable by cheque, Visa, MasterCard, cash or debit. This fee is covered by many dental insurance plans and we will be happy to provide you with the necessary forms if you have insurance coverage.

Upon arrival

You will be greeted by our New Patient Coordinator. She will assist you with getting checked in and show you how to use our automated sign-in service. You will be shown our reception and gaming areas, as well as our courtesy brushing station. You will be asked to fill in your forms if you haven’t already done so.

During your visit

Our Records Technician will take digital photos of your face and teeth for Dr. Kuppers or Dr. Greene to review. Any necessary x-rays will be taken at that time. This information will be used by our doctors to thoroughly assess your needs.

During this initial examination Dr. Kuppers or Dr. Greene will identify any potential concerns and make appropriate treatment recommendations. Time is given to discuss these recommendations and any concerns with our doctors.

Our Treatment Coordinator will answer any questions while she teaches you about orthodontics and provides you with a comprehensive and informative package. Fees will be presented and insurance pre-determinations provided.

If treatment is not required at this time, our doctors may will arrange to monitor the growth and development of your child in our Growth & Development Guidance Program. These observation appointments are a courtesy, and will continue until an appropriate timepoint of orthodontic intervention is recommended.

Oral Hygiene

When you have braces, it’s very important to brush and floss after every meal in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy throughout your treatment. The day your appliances were placed, your orthodontic hygienist provided you with an oral hygiene kit and demonstrated how to care for your braces. Our team will monitor your oral health throughout your treatment while following our “Healthy Mouth” protocol. You will be encouraged to continue seeing your dentist for regular cleanings and dental checkups. Avoid:

• Chewy and sticky foods ( bagels, caramels, chewing gum and candy)
• Crunchy and hard foods ( popcorn, nuts, uncut fruits and vegetables)
• Foods high in sugar (desserts, soda pop and sugary cereals)

Remember, we are here to help and encourage you with our “Healthy Mouth” protocol, so you can “Live Your Life Smiling™”

Discomfort with Braces

When you first get your braces, you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and will fade in a few days to a week. Drinking cold liquids may temporarily relieve some discomfort for you. If the pain is more severe you can also tryx taking a pain reliever.

It is also very common for your lips, cheeks and tongue to be irritated for the first week, as you become use to the braces.

Applying the wax that was given too you in your kit to the source of irritation can help to alleviate this discomfort. The wax will act as a band aid preventing further irritation, thereby allowing your body to heal the sensitive area.

Loose Teeth

If your teeth begin feeling a little loose, don’t worry! This too is normal. Your braces must first loosen your teeth in order to move them into the right position. Once your teeth have been repositioned, they will no longer be loose.

Loose Wires and Brackets

A wire and/or bracket on your braces may come loose during treatment. If this happens, please contact us as soon as possible so that we can check and repair your appliances. If any pieces of your appliances come off, be sure to save it and bring it to your next office visit.

Your Appliances

Take care of all your orthodontic appliances. Damaged appliances can increase the length of your treatment process. Your teeth and jaws can only move into their correct positions if you consistently wear the elastic rubber bands, headgear, retainer or any other appliances prescribed by Dr. Kuppers and/or Dr. Greene.