Informed
Consent

for the Orthodontic Patient

Risks and Limitations of Orthodontic Treatment

Successful orthodontic treatment is a partnership between the orthodontist and the patient. The doctor and staff are dedicated to achieving the best possible result for each patient. As a general rule, informed and cooperative patients can achieve positive orthodontic results. While recognizing the benefits of a beautiful healthy smile, you should also be aware that, as with all healing arts, orthodontic treatment has limitations and potential risks. These are seldom serious enough to indicate that you should not have treatment; however, all patients should seriously consider the option of no orthodontic treatment at all by accepting their present oral condition. Alternatives to orthodontic treatment vary with the individual’s specific problem, and prosthetic solutions or limited orthodontic treatment may be considerations. You are encouraged to discuss alternatives with the doctor prior to beginning treatment.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics is the dental specialty that includes the diagnosis, prevention, interception and correction of malocclusion, as well as neuromuscular and skeletal abnormalities of the developing or mature orofacial structures.

An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed at least two additional years of graduate training in orthodontics at an accredited program after graduation from dental school.

  • Results of Treatment

    Orthodontic treatment usually proceeds as planned, and we intend to do everything possible to achieve the best results for every patient. However, we cannot guarantee that you will be completely satisfied with your results, nor can all complications or consequences be anticipated. The success of treatment depends on your cooperation in keeping appointments, maintaining good oral hygiene, avoiding loose or broken appliances, and following the orthodontist’s instructions carefully.

  • Length of Treatment

    The length of treatment depends on a number of issues, including the severity of the problem, the patient’s growth and the level of patient cooperation. The actual treatment time is usually close to the estimated treatment time, but treatment may be lengthened if, for example, unanticipated growth occurs, if there are habits affecting the dentofacial structures, if periodontal or other dental problems occur, or if patient cooperation is not adequate. Therefore, changes in the original treatment plan may become necessary. If treatment time is extended beyond the original estimate, additional fees may be assessed.

  • Discomfort

    The mouth is very sensitive so you can expect an adjustment period and some discomfort due to the introduction of orthodontic appliances. Non-prescription pain medication can be used during this adjustment period.

  • Relapse

    Completed orthodontic treatment does not guarantee perfectly straight teeth for the rest of your life. Retainers will be required to keep your teeth in their new positions as a result of your orthodontic treatment. You must wear your retainers as instructed or teeth may shift, in addition to other adverse effects. Regular retainer wear is often necessary for several years following orthodontic treatment. However, changes after that time can occur due to natural causes, including habits such as tongue thrusting, mouth breathing, and growth and maturation that continue throughout life. Later in life, most people will see their teeth shift. Minor irregularities, particularly in the lower front teeth, may have to be accepted. Some changes may require additional orthodontic treatment or, in some cases, surgery. Some situations may require non-removable retainers or other dental appliances made by your family dentist

  • Extractions

    Some cases will require the removal of deciduous (baby) teeth or permanent teeth. There are additional risks associated with the removal of teeth which you should discuss with your family dentist or oral surgeon prior to the procedure.

  • Orthognathic Surgery

    Some patients have significant skeletal disharmonies which require orthodontic treatment in conjunction with orthognathic (dentofacial) surgery. There are additional risks associated with this surgery which you should discuss with your oral and/or maxillofacial surgeon prior to beginning orthodontic treatment.

  • Please be aware that orthodontic treatment prior to orthognathic surgery often only aligns the teeth within the individual dental arches. Therefore, patients discontinuing orthodontic treatment without completing the planned surgical procedures may have a malocclusion that is worse than when they began treatment!
  • Decalcification and Dental Caries

    Excellent oral hygiene is essential during orthodontic treatment as are regular visits to your family dentist. Inadequate or improper hygiene could result in cavities, discolored teeth, periodontal disease and/ or decalcification. These same problems can occur without orthodontic treatment, but the risk is greater to an individual wearing braces or other appliances. These problems may be aggravated if the patient has not had the benefit of fluoridated water or its substitute, or if the patient consumes sweetened beverages or foods.

  • Root Resorption

    The roots of some patients’ teeth become shorter (resorption) during orthodontic treatment. It is not known exactly what causes root resorption, nor is it possible to predict which patients will experience it. However, many patients have retained teeth throughout life with severely shortened roots. If resorption is detected during orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist may recommend a pause in treatment or the removal of the appliances prior to the completion of orthodontic treatment.

  • Nerve Damage

    A tooth that has been traumatized by an accident or deep decay may have experienced damage to the nerve of the tooth. Orthodontic tooth movement may, in some cases, aggravate this condition. In some cases, root canal treatment may be necessary. In severe cases, the tooth or teeth may be lost.

  • Periodontal Disease

    Periodontal (gum and bone) disease can develop or worsen during orthodontic treatment due to many factors, but most often due to the lack of adequate oral hygiene. You must have your general dentist, or if indicated, a periodontist monitor your periodontal health during orthodontic treatment every three to six months. If periodontal problems cannot be controlled, orthodontic treatment may have to be discontinued prior to completion.

  • Injury From Orthodontic Appliances

    Activities or foods which could damage, loosen or dislodge orthodontic appliances need to be avoided. Loosened or damaged orthodontic appliance can be inhaled or swallowed or could cause other damage to the patient. You should inform your orthodontist of any unusual symptoms or of any loose or broken appliances as soon as they are noticed. Damage to the enamel of a tooth or to a restoration (crown, bonding, veneer, etc.) is possible when ortho dontic appliances are removed. This problem may be more likely when esthetic (clear or tooth colored) appliances have been selected. If damage to a tooth or restoration occurs, restoration of the involved tooth/teeth by your dentist may be necessary.

  • Headgears

    Orthodontic headgears can cause injury to the patient. Injuries can include damage to the face or eyes. In the event of injury or especially an eye injury, however minor, immediate medical help should be sought. Refrain from wearing headgear in situations where there may be a chance that it could be dislodged or pulled off. Sports activities and games should be avoided when wearing orthodontic headgear.

  • Temporomandibular (Jaw) Joint Dysfunction

    Problems may occur in the jaw joints, i.e., temporomandibular joints (TMJ), causing pain, headaches or ear problems. Many factors can affect the health of the jaw joints, including past trauma (blows to the head or face), arthritis, hereditary tendency to jaw joint problems, excessive tooth grinding or clenching, poorly balanced bite, and many medical conditions. Jaw joint problems may occur with or without orthodontic treatment. Any jaw joint symptoms, including pain, jaw popping or difficulty opening or closing, should be promptly reported to the orthodontist. Treatment by other medical or dental specialists may be necessary.

  • Impacted, Ankylosed, Unerupted Teeth

    Teeth may become impacted (trapped below the bone or gums), ankylosed (fused to the bone) or just fail to erupt. Oftentimes, these conditions occur for no apparent reason and generally cannot be anticipated. Treatment of these conditions depends on the particular circumstance and the overall importance of the involved tooth, and may require extraction, surgical exposure, surgical transplantation or prosthetic replacement.

  • Occlusal Adjustment

    You can expect minimal imperfections in the way your teeth meet following the end of treatment. An occlusal equilibration procedure may be necessary, which is a grinding method used to fine-tune the occlusion. It may also be necessary to remove a small amount of enamel in between the teeth, thereby “flattening” surfaces in order to reduce the possibility of a relapse.

  • Non-Ideal Results

    Due to the wide variation in the size and shape of the teeth, missing teeth, etc., achievement of an ideal result (for example, complete closure of a space) may not be possible. Restorative dental treatment, such as esthetic bonding, crowns or bridges or periodontal therapy, may be indicated. You are encouraged to ask your orthodontist and family dentist about adjunctive care.

  • Third Molars

    As third molars (wisdom teeth) develop, your teeth may change alignment. Your dentist and/or orthodontist should monitor them in order to determine when and if the third molars need to be removed.

  • Allergies

    Occasionally, patients can be allergic to some of the component materials of their orthodontic appliances. This may require a change in treatment plan or discontinuance of treatment prior to completion. Although very uncommon, medical management of dental material allergies may be necessary.

  • General Health Problems

    General health problems such as bone, blood or endocrine disorders, and many prescription and non-prescription drugs (including bisphosphonates) can affect your orthodontic treatment. It is imperative that you inform your ortho dontist of any changes in your general health status.

  • Use of Tobacco Products

    Smoking or chewing tobacco has been shown to increase the risk of gum disease and interferes with healing after oral surgery. Tobacco users are also more prone to oral cancer, gum recession, and delayed tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. If you use tobacco, you must carefully consider the possibility of a compromised orthodontic result.

  • Temporary Anchorage Devices

    Your treatment may include the use of a temporary anchorage device(s) (i.e. metal screw or plate attached to the bone.) There are specific risks associated with them.

    It is possible that the screw(s) could become loose which would require its/their removal and possibly relocation or replacement with a larger screw. The screw and related material may be accidentally swallowed. If the device cannot be stabilized for an adequate length of time, an alternate treatment plan may be necessary.

    It is possible that the tissue around the device could become inflamed or infected, or the soft tissue could grow over the device, which could also require its removal, surgical excision of the tissue and/or the use of antibiotics or antimicrobial rinses.

    It is possible that the screws could break (i.e. upon insertion or removal.) If this occurs, the broken piece may be left in your mouth or may be surgically removed. This may require referral to another dental specialist.

    When inserting the device(s), it is possible to damage the root of a tooth, a nerve, or to perforate the maxillary sinus. Usually these problems are not significant; however, additional dental or medical treatment may be necessary.

    Local anesthetic may be used when these devices are inserted or removed, which also has risks. Please advise the doctor placing the device if you have had any difficulties with dental anesthetics in the past.

    If any of the complications mentioned above do occur, a referral may be necessary to your family dentist or another dental or medical specialist for further treatment. Fees for these services are not included in the cost for orthodontic treatment.

  • ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

    I hereby acknowledge that I have read and fully understand the treatment considerations and risks presented in this form.
    I also understand that there may be other problems that occur less frequently than those presented, and that actual results may differ from the anticipated results.
    I also acknowledge that I have discussed this form with the undersigned orthodontist(s) and have been given the opportunity to ask any questions. I have been asked to make a choice about my treatment. I hereby consent to the treatment proposed and authorize the orthodontist(s) indicated below to provide the treatment. I also authorize the orthodontist(s) to provide my health care information to my other health care providers. I understand that my treatment fee covers only treatment provided by the orthodontist(s), and that treatment provided by other dental or medical professionals is not included in the fee for my orthodontic treatment.

  • CONSENT TO UNDERGO ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT

    I hereby consent to the making of diagnostic records, including x-rays, before, during and following orthodontic treatment, and to the above doctor(s) and, where appropriate, staff providing orthodontic treatment prescribed by the above doctor(s) for the above individual. I fully understand all of the risks associated with the treatment.

  • AUTHORIZATION FOR RELEASE OF PATIENT INFORMATION

    I hereby authorize the above doctor(s) to provide other health care providers with information regarding the above individual’s orthodontic care as deemed appropriate.
    I understand that once released, the above doctor(s) and staff has(have) no responsibility for any further release by the individual receiving this information.

  • CONSENT TO USE OF RECORDS

    I hereby give my permission for the use of orthodontic records, including photographs, made in the process of examinations, treatment, and retention for purposes of professional consultations, research, education, or publication in professional journals.

  • I have the legal authority to sign this on behalf of

  • Notes

    PATIENT'S COPY

BRENT FREY,DDS

Specialist in Orthodontics &
Dentofacial Orthopedics

BROKEN BRACKET POLICY

Ok folks, this one is simple. If the brackets are not attached to the teeth, the braces can't do their job! Granted, it is difficult to complete treatment without having breakages. However, patients who break multiple brackets at a time or who break a bracket or two in between each appointment put themselves at serious risk for delayed progress and compromised results.

As your orthodontic provider, my team and I take great pride in practicing solid technique. In order to deliver consistent results, orthodontic technique must be combined with patient compliance. When this combination exists, orthodontics is efficient and rewarding. The following policy is designed to give you the best chance of successful treatment.

Young patients, if you break a bracket, tell your parents. Parents and adult patients, call the office to report breakages. We would like to be prepared for the additional time required to repair the brackets.

After the third broken bracket, fees may be assessed for broken brackets ($35/each), molar tubes ($50/ each). Fees will be assessed at the discretion of Dr. Frey.

The purpose of this policy is not to punish anyone, nor is it designed for profit. The goal is to promote responsible and aware patients. When patients understand the importance of taking care of their orthodontic appliances, it greatly improves the chances of successful treatment. Dr. Frey and the Champion Smiles Team thanks you for your commitment!

Prince George's Metro Center ||| | 6525 Belcrest Road, Suite 290 | Hyattsville, MD 20782
North Oak Professinal Center | 3060 Mitchellville Road, Suite 108 | Bowie, MD 20716
301-249-4123 | info@smile-champs.com | www.smile-champs.com

BRENT FREY,DDS

Specialist in Orthodontics &
Dentofacial Orthopedics

APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING

Orthodontics is unlike any other dental treatment. Treatment is generally non-invasive and is delivered over a period of months to years. During active treatment, you will visit the office once every one or two months. Another unique aspect of orthodontic treatment is that clinical assistants are trained to perform a number of basic orthodontic procedures, such as placing and tying in wires. Routinely, you will notice that the assistants will start working on the patient, Dr. Frey will look closely at the patient and plan the next step, and the assistant will finish working on the patient. Thus, our office can be very busy at peak times. To ensure that the schedule runs smoothly, we take special care of when certain procedures are scheduled.

Seventy-five percent of each patient’s appointments are basic adjustments including placing new ties or wires. These appointments can require as few as five minutes of chair time. The busiest portion of our schedule is before and after work/school hours. These appointment times are highly coveted! Because you have to visit the office once every month or two during active treatment, we understand why you like to avoid having office visits conflict with your personal schedule on a regular basis. To accommodate our patients, we reserve peak times in the schedule for routine adjustment appointments. From 7am-9:30am and 2pm-5pm, we only schedule wire and tie changes.

Generally, orthodontic patients will have no more than five appointments that last longer than 30 minutes. The new patient exam, records, consultation, placement of braces, removal of braces, and other special procedures require appointments that can take more than 30 minutes. Not only are the appointments longer, Dr. Frey may spend a lot of time working with patients for these procedures.

All of the more time consuming and clinically sensitive appointments are scheduled during mid to late morning. Initially, some patients may feel frustrated that they have to take off work or school for these longer appointments. By scheduling long appointments during off-peak times, it allows us to get you in and out of the office quickly during peak times when you have short appointments. Thus, for the majority of the treatment, you should be able to schedule appointments at times that do not conflict your personal schedule. Also, scheduling lengthy and clinically sensitive appointments during off peak hours gives us the time we need to focus on delivering precise, successful care.

Here are some things to remember. Emergency appointments can be scheduled during peak times. However, if the emergency involves breakage of orthodontic appliances, we will only do what is needed to make the patient comfortable during peak time. Because it takes extra time to repair broken appliances, we will have you come back at an off-peak time for the repair. If you know that something is broken, make sure you call so we can schedule accordingly. If you come in for a routine adjustment appointment and don’t call to report a broken bracket, we will make sure you are comfortable and schedule you during off peak hours for the repair.

When you or your child has a broken bracket and we ask you to come back for the repair, it may seem unfair. Keep in mind that if we schedule you for a ten-minute adjustment appointment and we spend an extra 20 minutes fixing something that has been broken, it will cause everyone else’s appointment’s to be delayed. Thus, if you value our ability to get you in and out of the office for the majority of your appointments, you must also understand why we can’t spend extra time on unscheduled repairs during peak times.

Prince George's Metro Center ||| | 6525 Belcrest Road, Suite 290 | Hyattsville, MD 20782
North Oak Professinal Center | 3060 Mitchellville Road, Suite 108 | Bowie, MD 20716
301-249-4123 | info@smile-champs.com | www.smile-champs.com

BRENT FREY,DDS

Specialist in Orthodontics &
Dentofacial Orthopedics

RELEASE AUTHORIZING USE OF PERSONAL LIKENESS

I, (patient name) consent to the use of my personal image and likeness, including but not limited to images representing and depicting the treatment provided to me and the effect thereof, by Champion Smiles for any lawful use Champion Smiles deems appropriate, including for treatment, advertising his/her/its services to the general public (including via social media and electronic media), illustration, and publication to the public at large for educational purposes.


I hereby relinquish any and all rights to my likeness or any image of me obtained by any photographic or digital means by Champion Smiles during the course of my treatment. I understand that I am entitled to no consideration, remuneration or payment for the use of my image in any advertising, promotional or educational materials.


I understand any image or likeness of me may be altered prior to use if deemed appropriate by Champion Smiles. I understand and agree that I have no right to be consulted about or approve of any such alterations before my image is used.


I understand and agree that Champion Smiles may use information regarding my health condition, including information regarding my diagnosis, course of treatment, my date of birth and/or age and my other relevant medical conditions, in describing the treatment re

ndered to me as depicted in any image of me.


I understand that Champion Smiles may not and has not conditioned the rendition of treatment to me upon my authorization of the use of my image and/or likeness.


I have read the foregoing in its entirety and understand its terms.

Prince George's Metro Center ||| | 6525 Belcrest Road, Suite 290 | Hyattsville, MD 20782
North Oak Professinal Center | 3060 Mitchellville Road, Suite 108 | Bowie, MD 20716
301-249-4123 | info@smile-champs.com | www.smile-champs.com