Do I need a referral from my general dentist to see an orthodontist?
No. You can reach out directly to us to schedule your complimentary consultation. No referral needed!
Do you charge for an initial visit?
No. As a courtesy to you, we discuss the feasibility of braces or tooth straightening without charging a fee for the initial consultation.
At what age do you start seeing patients?
As a rule of thumb, we like to evaluate young patients after the 6-year molars erupt and the front permanent teeth just start to appear. This is usually between the ages of 6 and 8. The American Association of Orthodontics recommends that all children be seen for the first time by age 7.
Why do you evaluate patients so young?
The purpose of early evaluation is to inform and observe, more than to start treatment. At this early age, the eventual needs may be identified and discussed. Habits are evaluated, medical issues are discussed and an observation schedule is arranged until the patient is ready to begin treatment.
A small percentage of this young group may need some form of intervention. Certain conditions are better caught earlier and treated before they become bigger and more challenging problems later. Dr. Kim will check for these conditions during the initial consultation and thoroughly discuss the diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
How long will the first visit take?
The first visit can last anywhere between 30 minutes and 1 hour depending on how ready the patient is for treatment. We may just do a visual exam and explain the situation or we may suggest one or more X-rays and complete diagnostics including digital scans of the teeth with photographs to document the current position.
We understand that time is precious, so for those who are ready to start treatment right away, we do our best to accomodate the schedule so that they can start their smile journey on the same day of consult.
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. A large percentage of our patients are adults! You are never too old to take care of your teeth and get the smile you deserve. New, more cosmetic appliances are making adult treatment much more comfortable and convenient. Learn more here.
What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?
Upon earning a doctorate in dental medicine from a 4 year dental school, an orthodontist attends an additional 2-3 year full-time residency program for advanced specialty training in orthodontics, resulting in a nationally accepted specialty certificate. The orthodontist then limits their practice to straightening teeth and dentofacial orthopedics. Dr. Henna Kim earned her orthodontics certificate along with a Masters in Oral Biology at the esteemed UCLA.
Can I make all my appointments in the afternoon after school and late in the day?
In order to have early and late appointments available for the majority of patient appointments, some procedures need to be accomplished during the hours of 9 and 3. We will do our best to work with your schedules and accommodate your family’s needs.
Do you see patients for emergencies?
Yes, our contact information for an emergency is posted on the website. We can easily be reached by text. Feel free to visit our emergency care page for more information.
Can we make payments?
Yes. Whether or not you have insurance or a dental plan, we will structure a convenient payment plan that will allow you to pay for orthodontic services over a period of time that usually coincides with your treatment plan. Learn more here.
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 charge interest?
No. We are happy to provide in-house payment plans free of interest to make treatment affordable to our patients.
Do you give family discounts?
We have special programs and fees for multiple patients from the same family.
I need to be pre-medicated for the dentist. Do I need to take my medicine for the orthodontist?
Most orthodontic procedures are not invasive and do not require premedication. However, it is best to confirm with the prescribing physician prior to any procedure.
Do retainers need to be worn after braces?
Yes, retainers are worn full-time for about 6 months followed by nighttime wear indefinitely.
Why do teeth get crooked after wearing braces or aligners?
Teeth move throughout life whether you have worn braces or not. It is part of the natural aging process. This is why retainer wear is recommended indefinitely to maintain your orthodontic results over a lifetime.
