Patient Resources

Your First Visit

At Artemis Smiles Orthodontics, we make your first visit comfortable, informative, and stress-free. This is the start of your smile journey, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

What to Expect

• Personalized Consultation — Meet with our experienced treatment coordinators and Dr. Bennie to discuss your goals and ask any questions.
• Comprehensive Exam — We use 3D imaging and scans to assess your teeth, jaw alignment, and overall oral health.
• Treatment Discussion — Dr. Bennie will review your results and explain your treatment options, including braces, InBrace, Invisalign, or other appliances.
• Customized Plan — We’ll create a personalized treatment plan, outlining the process, timeline, and any preparatory steps needed.
• Cost & Payment Options — Our team will provide a clear breakdown of costs, insurance coverage, and flexible payment options.

We’re excited to welcome you to Artemis Smiles Orthodontics and help you achieve the confident, healthy smile you deserve!

Financial Info

At Artemis Smiles, we believe finances shouldn’t stand in the way of your dream smile. That’s why we offer flexible, straightforward payment options to fit your budget.

• Cash & Major Credit Cards – We accept most major credit cards for easy payment.
• Flexible Financing – Down payments as low as $300 with customizable payment plans available to accommodate a variety of budgets.
• Insurance Assistance – We file claims on your behalf to help maximize your benefits.
• Payment Plans – Treat Now and Pay Later with Cherry & Artemis Smiles

At Artemis Smiles, we’re not just about creating beautiful smiles; we’re also committed to ensuring that the journey to achieve that smile is as comfortable and hassle-free as possible, including when it comes to finances. If you have any questions or would like more information about our financial policies and options, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. We’re here to help you navigate the financial aspects of your orthodontic treatment, so you can focus on achieving the smile of your dreams.

Emergency Care

At Artemis Smiles, we understand that orthodontic emergencies can arise unexpectedly, causing discomfort and concern. Whether you encounter a minor issue or a rare major emergency, our dedicated team is prepared to provide the care and guidance you need to address the situation promptly and effectively.

For any emergency, please text our practice with photos, if possible, so we can get back to you with an accurate response as quickly as possible. Someone will be available on-call to answer your questions.

In the Event of a major emergency

Real orthodontic (or dental) emergencies are few and far between but can include situations such as:

• Injury or trauma to the teeth, mouth, or facial area
• Swelling or infection of the gums, face, or mouth
• Intense, uncontrollable pain in these areas

In such scenarios, it’s important to seek prompt medical attention — if necessary, visiting an emergency room might be the most appropriate action. Typically though, your first point of contact should be your regular dentist. Your dentist is well-equipped with the expertise to manage a variety of dental issues, possessing the diagnostic capabilities, anesthetic options, and treatment solutions you require. For instance, if you encounter a broken tooth, your dentist can address the immediate issue and plan for the tooth’s repair. Subsequently, your orthodontic treatment plan can be modified accordingly. Similarly, extreme pain or swelling might indicate an underlying infection or disease, which would be best addressed by a dentist or a specialist like a periodontist.

Common, Minor Issues

At Artemis Smiles, we understand that minor emergencies can be a part of the orthodontic journey. While these situations are typically not severe, they can cause discomfort or concern. Our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your treatment process is as smooth and comfortable as possible, providing guidance and solutions for any issues that may arise. Here’s an overview of common minor emergencies and how to manage them until you can visit our office:

• Discomfort from Braces Adjustments — It’s normal to experience some discomfort after having your braces adjusted. This sensation usually subsides within a few days. In the meantime, over-the-counter pain relievers and soft foods can help alleviate any soreness.
• Loose or Broken Brackets — Brackets may become loose or detach from a tooth. If this happens, please contact us to schedule a repair. To minimize discomfort, you can cover the loose bracket with orthodontic wax. If the bracket completely comes off, bring it with you to your next appointment.
• Misplaced or Poking Wires — Wires can shift and begin poking the inside of your mouth or become misplaced. To temporarily resolve this, use the eraser end of a pencil to gently push the wire back into place or apply orthodontic wax over the area to reduce irritation. Avoid cutting the wire, as this could inadvertently lead to swallowing or inhaling the small piece.
• Lost Elastics or Bands — If an elastic band or the bands around your brackets come off, try to reattach them using sterile tweezers, if you’ve been instructed on how to do so. If you’re unable to reattach the band or if it’s lost, make sure to inform us so we can replace it and adjust your treatment as necessary.
• Minor Irritation and Ulcers — Orthodontic appliances can sometimes cause irritation to the cheeks, lips, or tongue, leading to the formation of ulcers. Rinsing with a saline solution or applying topical anesthetics can provide relief. Additionally, placing orthodontic wax on the areas of the appliance causing irritation can prevent further discomfort.
• Removable Appliance Issues — If you’re using a removable appliance and it becomes bent or broken, stop wearing it immediately to avoid further damage or discomfort. Contact us to assess whether the appliance needs to be adjusted or replaced.

Tips For Managing Minor Emergencies

• Always have orthodontic wax on hand for covering protruding wires or brackets.
• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent issues related to plaque buildup and gum irritation.
• Keep a small dental care kit with you, including orthodontic wax, sterile tweezers, and a small mirror, for managing minor issues when away from home.

Remember, most minor emergencies are easily managed with simple at-home remedies and do not disrupt the overall progress of your treatment. However, it’s important to inform us of any issues at your earliest convenience so we can provide professional advice and schedule an appointment if necessary.