New Patients

Begin with an Initial Consultation

At Marks Orthodontics, your initial consultation is complimentary. This is your chance to learn more about how orthodontics can help you achieve your dream smile. ‍

Your appointment will consist of:

A review of your medical and dental history. Complete oral exam with x-rays and photos needed to determine if treatment is necessary.
A thorough overview of your current orthodontic status and how we can improve your smile.
A discussion about financial information including personalized in-office interest free financing. We will also discuss any additional incentives you may be eligible for at that time, like payment in full discounts.

Getting Started with Treatment

We understand that scheduling appointments around work and school is hard to do, so along with convenient after work/school hours, we will try to combine as many appointments as possible to fit your busy lifestyles.

When you choose to move forward with treatment at Marks Orthodontics your next steps will be:

Sign the initial financial agreement
Review treatment consents and other paperwork to set up the financial plan
Choose which braces option you prefer that can best align your smile
Pay the down payment
Get braces on!

The Braces Are On! Now what?

Then the fun begins! Our treatment is set up to continue working while you are away from the office, but we need to be certain that it is activated and headed the right direction about every 4-8 weeks. Usually these adjustment appointments are fairly quick.

During this time Dr. Kathryn Marks will:

Remove your colored or clear ties on the braces
Make adjustments to the wires or brackets
Retie with NEW COLORS! You can be as creative or discrete in your choices as you want!
Set up your next appointment

What Can I Do to Help Things Along?

Orthodontic treatment truly is a partnership between your orthodontist and YOU. There are several steps you can take to ensure the best and fastest route to your beautiful healthy smile.

Keep your appointments regular.

We understand that life happens, which is why we have flexible appointment times to work around your sometimes hectic lives. The better you stick to your individualized recommended schedule, the faster you will see your smile change.

Keep them clean!

Brushing and flossing never before has been more important than during braces. While braces and clear aligners can be used to get beautiful results, it is extremely important to properly care for them to avoid undesired results. Dr. Kathryn Marks takes this part of treatment extremely seriously and requires the commitment from patient and parents to be sure you avoid those unfortunate consequences. She will give you all the tools necessary and give regular updates on how you are doing.

Follow a braces-safe diet.

The key to moving teeth is keeping braces and buttons attached to the teeth! Sticking to a braces friendly diet will ensure fewer emergencies and that movement continues forward.

Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What insurance does Marks Orthodontic accept?

Our staff is always available to help with any insurance questions! Our practice is in-network with the Delta Dental of Michigan and collaborates with a variety of insurance providers. Our team will work with you to understand your full insurance benefits, and as a courtesy for our patients, we will assist in submitting the necessary paperwork to your insurance company. Before your first consultation, you may consider contacting your insurance provider and find out your personal lifetime benefit.

How much does a consultation cost?

The consultation is complimentary and includes your orthodontic records of x-rays, photos, Dr. Marks's diagnosis and treatment plan.

Will my child get braces on their first visit?

Your child’s first visit will be an initial consultation to create a treatment plan. We’ll take radiographs and examine their bite. After this examination, we’ll discuss options with you and formulate a treatment plan. We also offer a "same day start" where kids can be examined and start braces that same day for some cases.

How long does the initial consultation take?

We schedule 50 minutes per patient for each consultation. Prepare to spend an hour or two at our office, depending on how many patients we are screening.

What can we expect during the first orthodontic appointment?

After the initial consultation and you’ve decided to go forward with the treatment plan, we’ll begin. Each treatment plan is custom-fit to each patient, so the first appointment will vary in activities. Some patients will receive palate expanders while others may get braces. We’ll let you know what you can expect after our initial consultation.

How do we know if my child needs braces?

You might consider braces for your child if they have issues like crowded or overlapping teeth, noticeable gaps, an overbite or underbite, or difficulty chewing. Your child's dentist may identify these concerns during regular check-ups and may recommend an orthodontic evaluation. Early signs, such as difficulty biting or chewing, mouth breathing, or thumb-sucking beyond early childhood, can also indicate the need for braces. However, every child is different! If you’re curious whether or not your child needs braces, scheduling an initial consultation will answer all of your questions about their potential orthodontic treatment needs. It is normal to come into the office without a referral—we are happy to help you!

What should we bring to the first appointment?

At the time you schedule your appointment, please send us your insurance information. It can take a few days to get all the information we need from the insurance company to give you the most accurate quote.

For your child's first orthodontic appointment, bring any recent dental records or X-rays. It's also helpful to have a list of your child's current medications and any relevant medical history. We're here to answer any questions during this appointment too.

We understand that your time is valuable, you (parent or guardian) can sign the treatment consents and bring the form of payment at that appointment.

How often will my child need to visit the orthodontist?

Your child will typically need to visit the orthodontist every 4 to 8 weeks. These regular appointments allow the orthodontist to adjust the braces, monitor progress, and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan. The exact frequency of visits may vary depending on your child's specific treatment needs.

Frequently Asked Question

Do I need a referral for an orthodontic evaluation?

No, you don't! We work with all local area dentists, but you don't need a referral from one to schedule a complimentary consultation with us.

It's important that you do have a dentist you've seen recently for an exam and cleaning. Once Dr. Marks has evaluated your smile, we'll send a detailed report and treatment plan to your dentist. We'll continue to work together with them to get you the smile you've always wanted.

Frequently Asked Question

Is it painful to get braces on?

The process of getting braces on is easy and pain free! After you leave the office, you will start having some discomfort about 4-6 hours later as your teeth start to move. You'll feel the most sore during the first 24 hours and after four days, you'll feel great!

some of our orthodontic Services

Explore Possibilities

At Marks Orthodontics, we offer braces, clear aligners, pre-orthodontics, and after care. If you're curious what kind of orthodontic treatment you or your child may need, schedule a complimentary consultation with us today.

Braces

Classic and reliable orthodontic treatment.

Braces

Clear Aligners

Explore the possibilities of invisible orthodontic care.

Clear Aligners