Orthodontics Patient Information

Thank you for your interest in the University of Alabama Graduate Orthodontic Clinic Program.

Our goal is to provide competent, professional, timely and compassionate orthodontic care for our patients and a meaningful education to our residents. We strive to treat each patient with respect and consideration for their time, comfort, feelings, and privacy.

Your First Visit

At your first visit to our clinic, we will perform a comprehensive initial orthodontic examination. With the clinical information that we gain, we will describe any orthodontic problems you may have, outline various treatment options that might benefit you, and discuss time requirements. As a courtesy to you, no fee is charged for this initial visit, and you are under no obligation to continue with any treatment.

The Records and Consultation Appointment

Should you decide to continue, all fees and payment options will be completely explained, and if you wish to proceed with treatment, a records appointment will be scheduled.

At that appointment, complete orthodontic diagnostic records will be taken. These records include: study models of your teeth, digital photographs of your face and teeth, and panoramic and cephalometric x-rays. With these records, our Doctors will confirm the findings of your initial clinical examination.

At the consultation appointment, a personalized treatment plan will be explained and any treatment options discussed

Care Of Your Orthodontic Appliances

Now that you have your appliances you must be sure to brush your teeth and gums better than ever before. Extra care must be taken in the area between the gums and appliances. We call this area the DANGER ZONE. Food that collects around the bands and wires can cause stains and cavities as well as unpleasant odors, so be sure to keep your teeth clean. This will also keep your gums healthy so they do not become swollen and infected. Brush after each meal. Take your time and do it right, and you will be glad you did. An electric toothbrush can be used, and a Water Pik appliance, if used conscientiously, is highly recommended.

Your orthodontic appliances will affect the foods you eat. In general hard, brittle foods and soft, sticky foods should not be eaten. These foods break the appliances and increases the time and cost to complete your treatment.

Certain foods can be eaten if they are served in a special way. Fruits and vegetables such as apples and carrots should be sliced and eaten in small pieces, while fresh corn may be eaten if sliced off the cob. Please exercise caution in your selection of foods. In general, keep pencils, fingernails, etc. out of your mouth!  Treat your appliances as expensive, fine pieces of jewelry.  With your cooperation and efforts we will achieve the best results possible. We also recommend regular check-ups and dental fluoride treatments. The use of over-the-counter fluoride mouthrinses are highly recommended. Be sure and keep all of your dental appointments so we can complete your treatment on time.

Notify the Clinic immediately if appliances become loose or broken! Due to the expense of orthodontic supplies, patients who repeatedly lose brackets or break appliances will be charged an additional fee.