Philosophy and Services

Why Choose Our Office

We appreciate your desire to seek the best possible orthodontic care. We pride ourselves on our honesty and patient respect and assure you the best possible treatment. Our office has 2 semi-private patient chairs to facilitate treatment for both adults and children. Our office typically sees 50% adults and 50% children. Dr. Benson takes diagnostic models and dental x-rays to help plan each case individually before any treatment is rendered. Usually several weeks are needed, depending on severity of the problem, to gather all relevant information and present all treatment goals with pros and cons associated with each possible treatment scenario. Rarely is there one treatment option. There are many different ways to approach problems and we want everyone to understand and choose the best option for their treatment.

Additionally, Dr. Benson pays particular attention to dental age and typically waits to begin treatment until most of the permanent teeth are in. For more information on how Dr. Benson has arrived at his timing philosophy, please read this informative essay Orthodontic Treatment Timing with references to current research. Our treatment timing philosophy, mechanics, bracket placement and an efficient system to monitor progress all combine to complete treatment during the estimated time with the best possible final results.

View Our Treatment Timing Printable Document

Services We Offer

Orthodontics for Adults and Children
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Adults have their own reasons for undergoing treatment. Some are concerned about how they look. Others seek treatment to make chewing easier or to relieve pain. Since adult’s teeth and jaws are done growing, adult orthodontics may involve special issues that don’t apply to children. For this reason, your treatment will likely involve a team approach. Dr. Benson will develop and oversee your dental plan, but he will likely communicate and coordinate treatment with your dentist, a periodontist, oral surgeon or other dental specialist. Children and adolescents present their own unique set of challenges given their ongoing growth. Careful consideration of the timing and amount of growth is necessary in order to obtain the best possible results. Therefore, Dr. Benson’s diagnostic work-up looks at these special considerations for children.

There are also many orthodontic appliances that can move teeth. Dr. Benson will talk with you on your preferences and treatment goals and help you choose which method is best for your situation. Currently we offer metal brackets, clear or tooth colored brackets, Invisalign, and an assortment of customized retainers that can help limited movements.

Sequence of Getting Started

First Appointment-Patient Initial Examination
A thorough examination will be done. The patient and Dr. Benson will meet and review the health history, goals of their dentist and goals of the patient. A possible treatment plan, length of treatment time and a range of fees will be discussed. Specifics of the case are finalized after records and a treatment plan are completed. If the patient is ready for orthodontic treatment, diagnostic records will be ordered.

CONFIDENTIAL HEALTH HISTORY – ADULT
CONFIDENTIAL HEALTH HISTORY – CHILD
CONSENT FOR USE AND DISCLOSURE OF PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION
INSURANCE AUTHORIZATION FORM
NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES


Second Visit-Records or Diagnostic Visit
This would include models of the teeth, which are positioned on an instrument called an articulator (jaw movement simulator). Facial and dental photographs are taken. X-rays are taken to view skeletal structures including the jaw joints. We use Rocky Mountain Oral X-ray to take all our photos and x-rays. They have the best technology and training in the x-ray field. The models, x-rays and photos are used to document a patient’s current condition and to help formulate strategies for improvement.

Third Appointment-Consultation
The records are evaluated and a comprehensive treatment plan is presented. This plan should include a sequential description of the type of treatment recommended and an approximate time the treatment should take. Each treatment plan is customized to the individual patient. If the patient has a history of TMJ disorders, Dr. Benson may ask the patient to wear an acrylic bite splint (jaw orthodontic) prior to beginning treatment, to stabilize the jaw and allow a more accurate diagnosis of the problem. Dr. Benson also will work closely with other dental specialists, oral surgeons, periodontists, and restorative dentists if orthodontics alone will not address all the patient concerns and problems.

Fourth Appointment-Treatment Begins
Since there are many different types of orthodontic treatment plans, this appointment will vary greatly. Subsequent appointments would proceed according to the treatment plan. Periodic progress reports are given to the patient and/or parents. Removal of orthodontic braces and delivery of retainers is done in accordance with the treatment plan. The goal is simple: We want our patients to have a healthy, attractive smile that lasts a lifetime.

Financial Arrangements

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in the overall dental, medical, and psychological well being of adults and children. The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient’s orthodontic problem, and we will discuss fees and payment options with you before treatment begins. To prevent financial considerations from being an obstacle to obtaining this important care, we offer a variety of payment options.

We accept payment in full, in house payment plans, and third party dental financing options. We accept cash, checks, MasterCard, and Visa.

We work individually with each family to utilize their Flex or Health Savings Benefits. See your benefits manager to get more information on this tax savings option.

Our office is able and willing to file and receive your dental insurance benefits. Orthodontic coverage is not included in everyone’s plan but we are happy to investigate that information. We are currently a Delta Dental of Colorado provider and are able to receive benefits from all major dental companies. Please contact our office for further information.