If you’re considering braces or clear aligners, your first step at Carter Orthodontics is a free orthodontic consultation. During your consultation, our team will evaluate your orthodontic needs, discuss your goals, explain your treatment options, and review the expected cost and payment options.
Carter Orthodontics provides orthodontic care for children, teens, and adults at our offices serving the CSRA, including Martinez (Augusta), Georgia, North Augusta, South Carolina, and Aiken, South Carolina.
Here’s what you can expect during your consultation.
1. A Warm Welcome
When you arrive, our team will welcome you and collect the information needed for your consultation. You’ll have an opportunity to tell us about your concerns, goals, and any questions you have about orthodontic treatment.
There is no cost for the consultation, and you are not required to begin treatment during the visit.
2. Diagnostic Photos and X-Rays
As part of your evaluation, our team may take diagnostic photographs and digital X-rays when appropriate.
These records help the orthodontist evaluate your teeth, jaws, bite, tooth positioning, and overall orthodontic needs.
The information gathered during this step helps us develop an individualized treatment recommendation.
3. Comprehensive Orthodontic Examination
Dr. David Carter or another Carter Orthodontics orthodontist will evaluate your teeth and bite.
The examination may include an evaluation of:
- Tooth alignment and spacing
- Crowding
- Overbite and underbite
- Crossbite
- Jaw and bite relationships
- Tooth eruption and development
- Other orthodontic concerns
The goal is to understand your individual orthodontic needs rather than simply recommend a specific type of appliance.
4. Discuss Your Treatment Options
After the examination, we’ll explain the treatment options that may be appropriate for your case.
Depending on your orthodontic needs, options may include:
- Traditional braces
- Ceramic braces
- Clear aligners
- Hybrid braces
- Early orthodontic treatment
- Other orthodontic treatment options
Treatment recommendations are based on your individual orthodontic needs, goals, and clinical evaluation.
5. Review Treatment Time and Cost
We’ll explain the expected treatment process and answer questions about:
- Estimated treatment time
- Recommended treatment option
- Expected appointments
- Treatment costs
- Orthodontic insurance benefits
- Payment and financing options
At Carter Orthodontics, orthodontic treatment starts at $4,645. The final cost varies depending on the treatment and your individual orthodontic needs.
If you have orthodontic insurance, your benefits may apply toward treatment costs. Insurance coverage varies by plan, and our team can help you understand your available benefits.
6. Explore Payment & Financing Options
Carter Orthodontics offers several ways to make orthodontic treatment more manageable.
Options may include:
- Pay-As-You-Go Orthodontic Program
- Cherry Payment Plans, including 0% APR for 6 months for qualifying patients, subject to approval
- Forever Aligned Club / $79 Membership, which may provide treatment savings
- In-house payment plans
- Other available financing options
Our team will explain the options available to you and help you understand the costs before you decide to begin treatment.
[Learn more about Payment & Financing Options →]
[Learn more about the Pay-As-You-Go Orthodontic Program →]
7. Ask Questions
Your consultation is also an opportunity to ask questions.
You can ask about anything related to your orthodontic treatment, including:
- Which treatment option is right for me?
- How long will treatment take?
- How often will I need appointments?
- Can I choose clear aligners?
- What will my treatment cost?
- Will my insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
- What payment options are available?
- What happens after treatment?
Our goal is for you to understand your options before making a decision.
8. Decide When You’re Ready
There is no requirement to begin treatment during your consultation.
You’ll leave with a better understanding of your orthodontic needs, treatment options, expected costs, and next steps.
If you’re ready to begin, our team can explain the process for getting started. If you need time to consider your options, that’s okay too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the orthodontic consultation free?
Yes. Carter Orthodontics offers free orthodontic consultations. Virtual consultation options are also available.
Do I need orthodontic insurance?
No. You can have a consultation and discuss treatment options whether or not you have orthodontic insurance. If you have insurance that includes orthodontic benefits, those benefits may help reduce your out-of-pocket treatment cost.
How much does orthodontic treatment cost?
Treatment at Carter Orthodontics starts at $4,645. The final cost depends on the recommended treatment and your individual orthodontic needs. Insurance benefits may apply for patients with orthodontic coverage.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Carter Orthodontics offers several payment and financing options, including the Pay-As-You-Go Orthodontic Program, in-house payment plans, and third-party financing options.
Do you offer braces and clear aligners?
Yes. Carter Orthodontics offers several treatment options, including traditional braces, ceramic braces, hybrid braces, and clear aligners.
Can children and adults have an orthodontic consultation?
Yes. Carter Orthodontics provides orthodontic consultations and treatment for children, teens, and adults.
Ready to Take the First Step?
A free consultation is the easiest way to learn what orthodontic treatment options may be appropriate for you or your child.
Book Your Free Orthodontic Consultation →
Carter Orthodontics serves patients throughout the CSRA with locations in Martinez (Augusta), GA; North Augusta, SC; and Aiken, SC.
