Financing and First Visit

Your First Orthodontist Visit in McAllen, TX

Your first orthodontic visit is an exciting step toward a healthier, more confident smile. At McAllen Orthodontic Group, we want your experience to be smooth, informative, and stress-free from day one. Whether you’re a parent bringing in your child or an adult exploring orthodontic treatment for yourself, our team is here to guide you.

When you arrive, our friendly team will greet you and give you a brief tour of the office. Your visit will include an x-ray and a clinical orthodontic examination by Dr. Joseph Ryan. He will review the x-rays, examine your smile, and walk you through any recommended next steps.

If treatment is recommended, we can often begin the process that same day. This saves you time and helps get your orthodontic journey started right away.

What to Expect at Your First Orthodontic Visit

  • We’ll identify any concerns and explain if treatment is needed
  • You’ll learn the best time to begin treatment
  • We’ll walk you through the type of treatment recommended
  • You’ll get a general idea of how long treatment might take
  • We’ll discuss financing options and what your investment includes

Diagnostic Records

If orthodontic treatment is recommended, diagnostic records can be taken at your initial or a follow-up visit. These records include:

  • 3D virtual study models of your teeth
  • 3D virtual x-rays

Dr. Ryan reviews these records carefully to determine your personalized treatment plan.

What’s Included in Your Orthodontic Investment

  • Orthodontic records (x-rays, models, growth study)
  • All appliances, office visits, and procedures during active treatment
  • One set of final retainers for Phase II comprehensive patients

What’s Not Included

  • Work performed at outside dental offices
  • Additional appliances due to loss or damage
  • Extended treatment due to complications (e.g., TMJ)

Orthodontic Financing Options and Insurance 

Easy Financing

Most orthodontic treatments in Texas typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the type of treatment and complexity. Before you begin, our team reviews all fees and payment options so you can make an informed, confident decision.

We offer:

  • Low down payments
  • Interest-free monthly payment plans
  • Automatic monthly drafts for convenience
  • Clear explanation of costs before starting treatment

Affordable Payment Plans

We believe orthodontic care should be accessible to every family. Our team helps you create a payment plan that fits your budget while maintaining high-quality treatment. You can expect:

  • Flexible monthly payments
  • Options designed around your financial needs
  • No-interest plans to keep treatment affordable

Insurance and Assignment of Benefits

To help reduce your out-of-pocket cost, we accept most major dental insurance plans. Our team will:

  • Verify your orthodontic benefits
  • Assign benefits when possible to lower upfront costs
  • File insurance claims on your behalf
  • Explain how your coverage applies
  • Assist with reimbursement if the assignment isn’t available

Please notify us right away if your insurance changes during treatment.

FAQ

You can schedule by calling our office or requesting an appointment online. We offer flexible scheduling to make your visit as convenient as possible.

Your first orthodontic visit typically takes between 30 minutes and an hour. If you’re ready to begin treatment, we may also take diagnostic records during this visit.

Please bring your photo ID, insurance details, and any dental records or referral forms. These help us provide the most accurate recommendations for your care.

Orthodontic insurance often covers part of your treatment, but not all plans are the same. We’ll help you understand what your insurance covers and what your out-of-pocket costs might be.

Yes! Our team will handle filing claims for you and can accept assignment of benefits for many major insurance providers.

Yes. Through our secure patient portal, you can view your upcoming appointments, check balances, make payments, and download receipts anytime.

Start Your Journey With Confidence

We’re here to make your first orthodontist visit informative, easy, and welcoming. With flexible financing options, personalized care, and a friendly team, McAllen Orthodontic Group is ready to help you achieve your healthiest smile. Call us today to schedule your consultation!