A Great Start to A Beautiful Smile At Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics, in Tuscaloosa, we believe that your first orthodontic visit is your most important one. Your First Visit The first visit to a doctor’s office can sometimes seem intimidating, especially for kids. But, your first visit to Cowan & Whitaker Orthodontics will be completely painless. You’ll be welcomed by our team, introduced to board-certified orthodontist Dr. Cowan, and shown around our office right away. In fact, the average wait time is only 4 minutes. We value your time and work hard to get you in and out on time. Our highly-trained, orthodontic treatment coordinator will then take some digital photographs of your teeth. If necessary, a panoramic and cephalometric X-ray. These images are the best way for us to see your teeth, jaws, and facial soft tissue. After reviewing these records, Dr. Cowan will join you in a private consultation room to discuss your individualized and unique treatment plan. Dr. Cowan will point out specific areas of concern and show you what kind of corrections you can expect by showing photos and videos of similar cases. Answering Your Questions We’ll do our best to answer the following questions: Is there a condition that orthodontics can address? Is treatment needed now or should treatment be delayed until appropriate growth, tooth eruption, or other factors have occurred? What treatment procedures will be used to correct the problem? Do any permanent teeth need to be removed? How long will treatment take? How much will it cost? What are my payment options? He will take as much time as needed to answer your questions and decide what kind of treatment is best for you. Dr. Cowan and his assistant will then walk you through the process. They will explain everything from scheduling to expected discomfort levels, to finances and payment options. Our goal is to make sure that no question goes unanswered. Giving Your the Best Care The orthodontic treatment process involves a series of orthodontic visits. We value the relationship that we will build with you and your family throughout that process and want you to be confident that you’re receiving the best orthodontic care possible. Once you feel like we've answered all of your questions and concerns, you can start your treatment that same day. We value your time, and we know you want to make the most of your visit. Get Started Please bring any panoramic X-rays you’ve had in the last 6 months, your insurance card if you have it, and your filled-out patient form If you have any more questions about your first orthodontic visit, please call us at 205-750-0081. You can also schedule a free consultation by filling out a simple online form.