Our Practice Profile
We appreciate your desire to seek the best possible orthodontic care. We pride ourselves on our honesty, our patient respect, and the assurance to provide you with the best possible treatment. Here are a few reasons to choose our office for your orthodontic needs:
Is the doctor an orthodontic specialist?
Yes. Dr. Crain has taken an additional two years of post-graduate orthodontic training beyond the four years of dental school. See education details on the Meet Dr. Crain page. He is an orthodontic specialist registered as a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and limits his practice specifically to orthodontics. Orthodontics isn’t just something that we do- It is all that we do.
Do you get patients in and out of braces during the estimated treatment time?
The most frequently asked question in any orthodontic practice is, “ When will I get my braces off?” We have a very high success rate of completing treatment during the estimated treatment time. Dr. Crain pays particular attention to dental age and does not start treatment too early. Our treatment techniques, bracket placement, and an efficient system to monitor treatment progress all combine to complete treatment during the estimated time with the best possible final results.
Does the doctor place all of the braces himself?
Yes! This is the single most important aspect of treatment. The placement of the braces is a technically detailed procedure. When done properly, the final orthodontic result is achieved easier and faster. Assistants do not have the training or license to position the braces on the teeth. In our practice, Dr. Crain attaches the braces to the teeth.
Clear (ceramic) Braces: The In-Ovation C Ceramic Brackets, developed by GAC, are clear brackets that are virtually invisible for our patients who are concerned about esthetics during their orthodontic care. They do not require the use of clear o-rings like other kinds of ceramic braces. It is the clear o-rings which become stained between appointments.
Do you re-use brackets that have been used in someone else’s mouth?
We do not recycle bands or brackets- ever! Believe it or not, this is a common practice that can save the doctor hundreds of dollars per patient. Even though the recycled brackets are sterilized, we feel that this is a disservice to the patient. Patients who receive recycled braces are not informed of this, and they think that they are getting new braces. Braces are precision devices which are manufactured and intended for single use only.
How much is the treatment fee?
Orthodontics is an investment for a lifetime! Orthodontic fees and philosophies may vary widely amongst offices, and it is important for you to be comfortable with both aspects of the office. It is vital that you look beyond fees and be satisfied with the quality of care that you will receive. Many times a treatment fee is quoted at an orthodontic office for the treatment only- and may not include diagnostic records or retainers. This gives an incorrect perception of the fee. We feel very strong about honesty with our patients. We want you to know, up front, what your entire fee includes so that there are no surprises at the end. Our fee is all-inclusive. It includes the diagnostic records, all appliances for the estimated treatment time, your retainers and 1 year of the retention period. You will be given a fee estimate at the initial, no cost appointment. Additionally, the all-inclusive fee will be discussed at the consultation before the treatment starts. We take great pride in providing you with the very best in orthodontic care. We know that you will develop confidence in our office, and we hope that you will feel comfortable in recommending us to your friends and family.