RESOURCES
Your smile journey, made simple
We believe a great orthodontic experience begins long before your first appointment. From preparing your visit to finding answers to your questions, we’re here to make every step feel simple, comfortable, and stress-free.
Explore our resources and feel confident knowing we’re here to guide you along the way.
NEW PATIENT FORMS
A few details before you arrive.
Your time matters to us. To help make your first visit as smooth as possible, we encourage you to complete your new patient forms before your appointment.
Taking care of the details ahead of time means more time to focus on what matters most which is getting to know you and your smile.
Patient registration
Who’s coming in, how to reach you, and which dentist we should loop in.
Medical & dental history
Medications, allergies, and past treatments. The details that keep care safe.
Insurance & billing
Your coverage and who to bill, so benefits are verified before you sit down.
Consent & privacy
A short notice on how we look after your records and share them with your dentist.
YOUR FIRST VISIT
Every great smile starts somewhere.
About 45-60 minutes, start to finish so nothing feels like a surprise.
What to bring
Insurance card (and any secondary coverage)
Photo ID
A current list of medications
Notes from your dentist, if they sent you our way
Bringing your child? We go at their pace, and a parent’s lap is always welcome.
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Arrive and settle in
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10 MINUTES EARLY
We build extra time into first visits, so there’s not need to rush or sit in a crowded room.
ABOUT 15 MINUTES
A quick exam
We look at your teeth, jaws, and bite. It’s a careful look, not a procedure.
ABOUT 10 MINUTES
Photos and a digital scan
We look at your teeth, jaws, and bite. It’s a careful look, not a procedure.
ABOUT 20 MINUTES
The conversation
We talk through what we found, what it means, and every option
ABOUT 10 MINUTES
Your plan, in writing
A clear timeline, a total price, and exactly how insurance an monthly payments would work.
A WEEK TO THINK
No pressure to decide
Take the plan home and talk it over. Nobody will chase you for a signature.
REFERRALS
Great care begins with connection.
We’re grateful for the trust patients, families, and dental professionals place in us. Whether you’re referring someone you care about or a patient who could benefit from orthodontic treatment, we’re here to make the whole process simple and welcoming.
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A call before anything is sent
Dentists can call (000) 000-0000 to talk the cause through first — what you’re seeing, and whether a consultation is the right next step.
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Records, shared the careful way
We confirm a secure way to pass photos, X-rays, and notes across. Health details never travel by ordinary email.
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Your patient books when ready
They can request a visit themselves, or we’ll reach out and find a time that suits the family.
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You hear how it went
After the visit we send a short summary of the plan, so your records stay as current as theirs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions? We’re here to help.
We know that starting orthodontic treatment can bring plenty of questions. From treatment options and appointment expectations to caring for your smile, we’ve gathered answers to help you feel informed and prepared.
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The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. At this age, children have a combination of baby and permanent teeth, allowing us to identify potential concerns with jaw growth, crowding, and bite development.
An early evaluation doesn’t necessarily mean your child needs braces right away. It simply allows us to determine the best time to begin treatment, if needed.
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Not necessarily! Many children do not need treatment at age 7. However, certain orthodontic problems are easier to address while a child is still growing.
If treatment isn’t necessary yet, we may recommend periodic visits to monitor your child’s growth and dental development until the ideal time for treatment.
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Absolutely not! Orthodontic treatment isn’t just for kids and teenagers. Adults of all ages can benefit from straighter teeth, an improved bite, and a healthier smile.
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Orthodontic treatment offers benefits beyond a beautiful smile. Properly aligned teeth and jaws can:
Make brushing and flossing easier
Reduced cavity risk and periodontal disease
Improve bite function and chewing
Reduce premature tooth wear by creating a more stable bite
Center tooth roots in the bone for long-term stability
Prepare patients for restorative general dental work (ie obtain space for implants or fillings)
Help address crowding, spacing, and bite problems
Support long-term dental health
Improve smile confidence and self-esteem
Our goal is to create a smile that is not only beautiful but also healthy and functional.
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While both dentists and orthodontists care for your oral health, orthodontists complete additional specialized training after dental school focused on straightening teeth, correcting bites, and guiding jaw development.
Dr. Albert Ngo is a board-certified orthodontist who completed his dental education, orthodontic residency, and Master’s degree at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).
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No! You can schedule an orthodontic consultation directly with our office without a dentist’s referral.
We welcome patients who are simply curious about their smile or want to explore their treatment options. Schedule your free consultation and we can review ways to improve your smile together!
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Yes! We offer complimentary orthodontic consultations for new patients.
Your free consultation includes a comprehensive orthodontic examination, with X-rays, photographs, and a digital scan as appropriate to evaluate your smile and bite.
Dr. Ngo will discuss his findings, answer your questions, and review personalized treatment options. There is no obligation to begin treatment.
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Your first visit is an opportunity for us to get to know you and your smile!
During your consultation, our team will review your dental and medical history, evaluate your teeth and bite, and gather any necessary diagnostic records.
Dr. Ngo will explain whether orthodontic treatment is recommended, discuss your options, and review the estimated treatment timeline.
We’ll also help you understand treatment costs, insurance benefits, and available payment arrangements.
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Please bring your ID, dental insurance information, a list of medications, and any relevant dental records you may have.
We also encourage you to bring any questions or concerns about your smile. Our team is happy to help you feel informed and comfortable throughout your visit.
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Both braces and clear aligners can be excellent options for straightening teeth.
Braces are attached to your teeth and work continuously, making them effective for a wide range of orthodontic concerns.
Clear aligners are removable, nearly invisible trays that offer greater flexibility when eating, brushing, and flossing.
The best option depends on your bite, treatment goals, lifestyle, and willingness to wear aligners consistently. Dr. Ngo will help you choose the right treatment.