Welcome, New Patients!
Here's How to Get Started
Our greatest goal is to give you the healthy, straight, beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. We understand that choosing orthodontic care is a big decision, and we respect your reasons for wanting to improve the way you look and feel. We’ll work with you every step of the way, using the latest technology and a variety of safe, gentle treatment options.
What New Patients Can Expect,
Step by Step
From your first hello to the day treatment begins, here’s exactly what happens and how long each step takes. You’ll always know what comes next.
Initial Consultation
Every smile starts with a consultation. You’ll meet our team, learn about orthodontics, receive a complete exam, and find out which options best meet your needs. We will listen to your main concerns, review your dental and medical history, and complete an oral exam to determine whether treatment is needed.
Records Appointment
We gather the records needed for a thorough diagnosis and plan, including X-rays. It takes about half an hour.
Treatment Review
You’ll meet with Dr. Costalos to go over your plan, including any alternative options, timeline, and costs.
Starting Treatment
Dr. Costalos places your braces or delivers your first aligners. This visit takes about an hour, and our team will make sure you’re comfortable throughout.
Preparing for Your Visit
A few simple things make your first appointment, and every visit after it, smooth and easy.
What to Bring
- Your insurance card
- A list of current medications
- Recent dental X-rays
- A parent/guardian if under 18
Scheduling Your Visits
Visits every 4 to 6 weeks are an important part of treatment. Tell us which days and times work best for you. If you’re running late or need to reschedule, let us know and we’ll do everything we can to accommodate you.
Keep Seeing Your Dentist
Continue visiting your family dentist every six months for cleanings and check-ups. If extra care is needed, we’ll coordinate with your dentist.
Making Orthodontic Care
Affordable
Cost is one of the first questions new patients ask, and we believe in answering it openly. Before treatment begins, we’ll walk you through your fee, your insurance benefits, and your payment options, so you can choose what works best for your family.
Insurance
Many dental plans include orthodontic benefits. Our team will check yours and file claims for you.
Flexible payment plans
Spread the cost of treatment over comfortable monthly payments with a low down payment, so you can get started sooner.
FSA and HSA
Orthodontic treatment is typically an eligible expense for flexible spending and health savings accounts, which can lower your out-of-pocket cost.
Third-party financing
Prefer to finance? Ask us about healthcare financing options that offer additional monthly payment choices.
What affects cost
The cost of treatment depends on its complexity, how long it takes, and the type of appliance. Your exact fee is shared at your treatment review, with no surprises.
Complete Your Forms Online or on Paper
Save time at your first visit by completing your paperwork before you arrive. Fill out each form securely online, or download a printable PDF and bring it with you.
Medical & Dental History: Patients Under 18
For children and teens. A parent or guardian should complete this form.
Medical & Dental History: Adult Patients
For patients age 18 and older.
Informed Consent for the Orthodontic Patient
Review the benefits, risks, and limitations of orthodontic treatment before you begin.
Option 1: Online (Recommended)
- Select Start Form to open it securely on Paubox.
- Works on any phone, tablet, or computer.
- Your answers are encrypted and sent directly to us.
Option 2: Paper
- Select Download Printable PDF.
- Type your answers or fill it out by hand.
- Sign, date, and bring it to your visit.
Your Privacy
- Please don’t email, text, or send photos of completed forms.
- On a shared computer, print without saving.
- Delete any filled-in copies from your device.
Questions about your forms? Call us at (718) 238-9888.
Ready to Get Started?
Book a consultation with Dr. Costalos at 466 Bay Ridge Parkway. We’ll listen to your concerns, examine your smile, and explain every option. No pressure, just answers.