Welcome to Our Office
Your first visit is an important step, and we’re here to make it easy. You’ll meet Dr. John DiGiovanni and our staff, get to know the office, and learn about the treatment options that can help you achieve a healthy, confident smile.
Your initial appointment includes a complete orthodontist consultation. Dr. DiGiovanni will review your medical and dental history, perform a full orthodontic exam, and discuss possible treatment options. This visit is also your chance to ask questions and become familiar with our team and office environment.
Personalized Orthodontic Care
No two patients are the same. That’s why Dr. DiGiovanni provides individualized recommendations based on your unique needs and goals. Whether this is your child’s first orthodontic visit or your own, you’ll leave with a clear plan designed specifically for you.
Meet Our New Patient Coordinators
Our patient coordinators, Raquel and Alba, will guide you through every step of your first appointment. With decades of orthodontic experience, they are here to answer questions, explain next steps, and make sure your experience is smooth and stress-free.
Getting Started Is Easy in Just 4 steps
Here’s what to expect at your first orthodontic consultation:
1. Photos and X-rays
We begin by taking diagnostic records of every new patient during the consultation. This includes photographs and, if needed, an X-ray.
2. Exam and Treatment Options
Dr. DiGiovanni performs a comprehensive exam, answers your questions, and presents treatment options tailored to you.
3. Financial Arrangements
Our treatment coordinator reviews your case fee, explains insurance benefits if applicable, and helps arrange a payment plan that suits your needs.
4. Start Treatment
If treatment is recommended for your condition and you’re ready, it’s often possible to begin that same day!
Treatment Costs Explained
We keep costs simple and transparent. The cost of orthodontic treatment depends on your diagnosis, the appliance you choose, and how long treatment will take. At your first visit, we share a written estimate that explains the average cost of orthodontic treatment for cases like yours, your estimated insurance benefit, and your out-of-pocket total. If you are comparing options, we will also review Invisalign cost versus braces so you can choose what feels right.
Easy Financing That Fits You
We want great smiles to be within reach. Choose from pay-in-full savings or flexible in-house monthly payments that are interest free. You can also use FSA or HSA funds, and we are happy to answer any questions along the way.
About Orthodontic Insurance
Good news, many plans include an orthodontic benefit. We work with most insurance, check your coverage, and handle claim submission for you. Share your insurance details before your visit, and we will have your estimate ready the day you come in.
Meet Your Financial Coordinators
With Over 60 Years of Orthodontic Experience!
Joanne (Laguna Beach) and Kim (Newport Beach) make the financial side simple and clear. They know orthodontic insurance and treatment financing inside and out, and they will work to help you receive the maximum benefit allowed by your plan. Ask anything. They are here to help before, during, and after treatment!
How Joanne and Kim help you:
- Verify insurance and explain your coverage in plain language
- Prepare a written estimate with your expected out-of-pocket costs
- Set up interest-free monthly plans or pay in full savings
- Guide you on using FSA or HSA funds for eligible expenses
- Handle claim submission and follow up with your insurer
- Answer billing questions and adjust payment schedules when needed
Share your insurance details before your first visit so Joanne and Kim can have your estimate ready the day you come in.
Preparing for Your First Visit
Before your first orthodontic visit, try to complete the following steps. This will help make your consultation as smooth and efficient as possible:
- Your completed New Patient Health History Form
- Dental insurance details, if you have coverage
- Any recent x-rays, models, or dental records
- A list of questions for Dr. DiGiovanni
- For children, we recommend both parents attend if possible
FAQ
What Can I Expect From The First Consultation?
At your first orthodontic consultation, we’ll do a complete exam and talk about your dental and medical history. Dr. DiGiovanni will check your teeth and bite, go over treatment options, and give you an idea of how long treatment might take and what it could cost.
When Can I Schedule My First Orthodontic Consultation?
You can book your first consultation Monday through Friday. Longer visits, like exams and appliance placements, are usually in the morning. Shorter adjustment appointments are often in the afternoon, which works well for students after school. This way, your first visit gets the time it deserves.
How Long Will The First Visit Take?
Your first orthodontic visit usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes. We’ll start with a quick look at your teeth, chat about your goals, and, if needed, take x-rays, impressions, or photos to get the full picture.
What Should I Bring To My First Appointment?
Please bring your completed health history form, any dental insurance details you may have, and recent x-rays or dental records if you have them. If it’s your child’s first visit, it’s helpful if both parents can come along.
Will I Learn About Treatment Costs At The First Visit?
Yes, we’ll go over costs at your first visit. After the exam, Dr. DiGiovanni will explain your treatment options, give you a clear idea of fees, and let you know how insurance might help if you have coverage.
How Much Do Braces Cost?
Costs vary by case complexity, treatment length, and appliance type. At your visit, we will share a personalized estimate, the average cost of orthodontic treatment for similar cases, and the cost of Invisalign if you are deciding between options. Your estimate will also include any expected insurance benefits and financing choices.
Will Insurance Cover Everything?
Coverage varies by plan, and most plans do not cover the total fee. Many include an orthodontic benefit that pays a portion of treatment. We review your estimated coverage at the consultation and help you use the maximum benefit available.
Do You Bill Insurance?
Yes, and we accept direct payment as well. We verify your benefits and submit claims for you. Our goal is to make the process easy from start to finish.
Do You Offer Payment Plans/Options?
Yes. We offer multiple choices, including in-house monthly payments that are interest free and pay-in-full savings. We will design a plan that fits your budget during your first visit.
Your First Step Toward a Great Smile
We look forward to welcoming you as part of our patient family. From your very first orthodontic visit, our focus is on open communication, personalized care, and helping you feel confident about your treatment journey.
