Accompanying Your Child During Their Orthodontic Appointment

“Can I stay with my child for their appointment?”  

“Of course you can!  They’re getting their braces today.  Did you remember to bring your camera?”

Orthodontists want you to be able to experience your child’s orthodontics right along with them.  Having an open clinic area in the orthodontic office allows for a wonderful bonding opportunity for patients and their parents.  

“Timmy what did they say today?  Are your braces coming off soon?  Too often the response is “I don’t know, I guess.”  What better way to find out how your child’s treatment is progressing than hearing it firsthand.

Over the past 15-plus years, the trend set in orthodontic offices has gone with the open clinic (or treatment area).  Of recent years, many offices are choosing to go with the enclosed or cubical area design trying to afford their patients with the added privacy assurance.

The thought behind this move back to the separated treatment stations is that it affords the added privacy when discussing patient treatment, finances and insurance information.

Posing the option to patients at one local orthodontic office, the overwhelming response was to keep the open clinic.  The reasons given for their opinions were surprising.

The number one reason given by both patients and parents was the social atmosphere.  Parents were inclined to reply that they looked forward to conversation with clinical assistants as well as other parents during their child’s appointment time.  Young and mature patients alike replied that they would miss seeing friends and talking with the other assistants.

One parent’s response to the unofficial poll taken was that had this office not had the open clinic area she would not have overheard and been able to join in a conversation discussing local oncologists in the area and their related specialties.  She obtained information to use for a personal health issue.

A variety of conversations taking place in the open clinic area appear to allow a relaxed atmosphere conducive to the patients’ overall treatment experience.

This particular orthodontic office utilized the practice of chair side courtesy in discussing any additional financial options that might have become available during the treatment time.  In asking the parent to step up to the patient’s chair, or directing them to the financial or reception desk, they were better able to observe the HIPAA regulations.

Overall, the great debate continues to sway in favor of the open clinic area.  As seen in the orthodontic office polled, courteous observation of patient privacy does not hinder the enjoyable atmosphere of the open clinic.

Finally, happy patients are more apt to refer friends and family to a practice that emits a pleasurable experience for all!

**Author Credit**

Dr. Parsons & Dr. Gilbert, Orthodontics
www.SmilesForever.com