1040 US-1, Suite #103 Avenel, NJ 07001
732-582-4224
Pay Online
New Patient Forms
Entering a medical practice for the first time can be stressful or intimidating, even in oral healthcare offices. But it doesn’t have to be! It can be thrilling and fun and full of anticipation of all the achievable possibilities when you collaborate with a trusted provider to make your dreams a reality. To help reduce the fear of the unknown and get you enthusiastic about the process, below is what you can expect at your first orthodontic appointment at White Oak Dental & Orthodontics!
1.) Medical History & Insurance Paperwork
Like every new healthcare office you visit, you must complete some paperwork at your first orthodontic consultation. We know it’s not the most fun part of any healthcare journey, but it’s vital to complete it accurately before the consultation and treatment process begins. Knowing your medical and dental history, allergies, treatment preferences, and insurance benefits is crucial to providing a budget-friendly personalized treatment plan that fits into your daily life.
At White Oak Dental & Orthodontics, we understand the value of your time. That’s why we offer the option to complete your paperwork online before your first appointment. This way, you can take care of it at your convenience, saving you time and making your visit more efficient.
2.) Comfortable Accommodations
Stepping into White Oak Dental & Orthodontics, you’ll immediately notice the bright and modern ambiance that defines our practice. This relaxing, high-end aesthetic continues into the private treatment rooms we use for dental and orthodontic care.
Designed with your comfort in mind, each room is an oasis of relaxation to ease any apprehensions you might have about orthodontic treatment. As you settle into our plush, leather dental chairs, we hope you’ll feel excited about your upcoming smile transformation.
We didn’t just stop at comfy seats, however. To enhance your experience further, our treatment rooms are equipped with ceiling-mounted TVs, allowing you to watch Netflix shows or movies during your appointment. This unique feature helps distract and entertain, making the time pass quickly while you’re receiving care. Soft blankets and pillows are readily available to ensure you feel cozy and supported throughout your visit.
At White Oak Dental & Orthodontics, we believe a calm and inviting environment is essential to a successful orthodontic journey. By providing these luxurious accommodations, we aim to ease dental anxiety and transform your oral healthcare visits into enjoyable and relaxing experiences.
3.) Meeting Dr. Lai & Her Team
A significant part of your first visit to White Oak Dental & Orthodontics involves meeting Dr. Lai and her team for the first time. Even if you’ve received dental care from her husband, Dr. Aquino, or Dr. Slezak, you might not have interacted much with Dr. Lai, a board-certified orthodontist. Your initial orthodontic consultation is an opportunity to get to know her and experience how she combines her expertise with a compassionate approach to orthodontic care.
From the moment you walk through the doors, Dr. Lai and her team prioritize making a personal connection with you. They take the time to get to know you, not just as a patient but as an individual with unique needs and expectations. This personal approach helps craft a more tailored treatment plan and provides a comforting, trust-filled atmosphere.
Dr. Lai’s team consists of skilled professionals passionate about orthodontics and patient care. Each team member is trained to answer your questions, address your concerns, and help you feel informed and comfortable throughout your treatment process. They are not just providers; they are your partners in achieving the smile you desire.
4.) The Consultation Process
Your first orthodontic appointment at White Oak Dental & Orthodontics is not just about meeting the team but also about laying the groundwork for your treatment. The consultation process is thorough so that every aspect of your orthodontic needs is covered safely, quickly, and comfortably.
X-Rays & Scans
The first step in your consultation involves comprehensive diagnostic imaging. We utilize the latest digital X-ray technology and scanning systems to get a detailed and clear picture of your oral structure without messy or goopy impressions. These images are crucial as they help Dr. Lai assess the positioning of your teeth and jaw, identifying malocclusions such as misalignments or other orthodontic needs. The precision of these tools ensures that your treatment plan is accurate and tailored to your specific conditions.
Thorough Examination
Following the imaging, Dr. Lai will conduct a detailed examination of your teeth, gums, and jaw. This examination is not only focused on identifying immediate orthodontic concerns but also on preventing future issues. Dr. Lai’s expertise allows her to observe subtle signs that might indicate the need for early intervention, making the treatment more effective and often less invasive.
Discussion of Treatment Options
After examining and reviewing your X-rays and scans, Dr. Lai will discuss the various treatment options available. Dr. Lai will explain each treatment method—traditional metal braces, gold braces, clear braces, or advanced solutions like Invisalign or Spark clear aligners—and then recommend the best treatments based on your specific dental needs, lifestyle, and cosmetic preferences so that you are comfortable with and confident in your treatment plan.
Financial Planning
Understanding the cost of orthodontic treatment and financial planning is integral to the consultation process. Our team will provide a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with your recommended treatment plan. We’ll also explore insurance options and discuss payment plans to help manage the expenses without stress. We aim to make orthodontic care accessible and affordable for all our patients. We never want cost to be the reason you have to turn down treatment for yourself or your child.
All You Can Ask Questions Portion
Finally, we dedicate time for you to ask any questions you might have. This part of the consultation allows you to leave the office feeling confident and fully informed about your orthodontic journey. Whether your questions are about the treatment details, timeline, care instructions, or anything else, Dr. Lai and her team are there to provide comprehensive answers.
Your New Smile Is Just Around The Corner!
As you prepare for your first orthodontic visit, remember that at White Oak Dental & Orthodontics, our goal is to ensure your comfort and confidence every step of the way. Dr. Lai and her team are committed to providing you with the highest quality of orthodontic care in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Don’t wait to begin your or your child’s journey towards a perfect smile. Call or click today to schedule your first appointment at White Oak Dental & Orthodontics in Avenel!