Let's

Get Started

First Visit

We are thrilled to have the opportunity to meet you! When you visit, our Front Desk Associates will introduce you to our Treatment Coordinator, who will gather information about why you have come to visit us. Your wishes and goals are an essential part of the planning process.

During the initial visit, you and your family will get to know Dr. Johnston and our Team. Dr. Johnston will do a comprehensive examination, which typically includes photographs and an x-ray. Dr. Johnston will determine:

  • What orthodontic and esthetic concerns should be addressed.
  • How long treatment will take.
  • What the fees for your treatment will be.

You will have the opportunity to ask Dr. Johnston questions and review treatment options. Our goal is to create a specialized treatment plan just for you or your child. Please expect to spend about 60 minutes with us.

The initial consultation is free of charge.

Welcome to our Office

Finance and Insurance Info

One of the first questions patients ask us after we suggest any treatment is: How much will this cost?

Through our affiliate, OrthoFi, we can offer incredible flexibility like no one else. Unlike many offices, you choose your initial investment, your monthly payment, and your payment length based on your family situation and your monthly budget. Many patients will pay for the entire treatment upfront in order to get a discount for doing so. Others will pay a larger amount up-front to decrease their monthly payments. Some patients choose to complete their payments during their estimated treatment time, while others will extend payment considerably past that time to lower monthly payments, with no high initial cost. OrthoFi makes it easy for you to tailor your plan! If you have any questions regarding your OrthoFi account, do not hesitate to contact them at orthofi.com.

Before you start treatment, we will explain the costs to you and offer payment plans to help you cover the expenses your insurance does not cover. If treatment is paid in full at the onset, we can also provide a discount. We accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and FLEX/HAS payment options.

Patient Forms

Made Easy

Our goal is to take the hassle out of healthcare. Insurance and medical forms will be sent to you via email (through our affiliate, OrthoFi), and we have streamlined these forms to make them easy to complete and submit online. We will use these forms to maximize your insurance coverage and offer you the tailored care you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. Orthodontists have a special focus within dentistry of correcting bites and straightening teeth. They have attended additional years (typically three) of specific orthodontic training (residency) at a dental school university. While they both monitor your overall oral care, orthodontists will correct problems such as an overbite, underbite, or other general teeth alignment.

When should my child first visit the orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that an Orthodontist see all children by age seven. While there are many times that no treatment is needed at this age, certain skeletal and dental problems can BEST be addressed at this age.

What will happen at the initial examination appointment?

The initial exam at Johnston Orthodontics involves reviewing your medical and dental history and performing a complete bite assessment by Dr. Johnston and his team. We take digital photographs better to explain your bite issues and a panoramic x-ray to evaluate dental development, bone growth, and adequate treatment time. The initial exam typically takes 1 hour.

Will braces interfere with daily activities?

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How long will I need braces?

Treatment time varies from person to person and the complexity of the issue to correct. It also depends on how your teeth respond to orthodontic forces and often is dependent on compliance with elastics. Generally, treatment takes anywhere from 18-24 months.

Does Dr. Johnston treat both children and adults?

Yes. While many of our patients are teens and adolescents, Johnston Orthodontics has 25-30% of adult patients in treatment.

Do I need to see my dentist while in braces?

Yes. The dentist will perform cleanings, check for cavities and look for other restorative concerns. Checkups with your dentist should be every four months during orthodontic treatment, unless specified by Dr. Johnston!

How long are my appointments?

Appointment times vary from 20-60 minutes, depending on the visit and what needs to be accomplished. The average appointment is 30 minutes long.

What should I do if something breaks or is hurting?

Overall, there should be minimal discomfort involved while in treatment. In most cases, over the counter pain relievers may be used. Wax can also be used temporarily to stop a wire from poking or rubbing the cheek. In case of an emergency, please call the office to schedule an appointment. If, after hours, we have an emergency phone number for our patients of record (404-692-1072).

How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces, aligners, or retainers?

  • Floss every day, at least once, and brush your teeth after each meal
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste, and if your orthodontist recommends it, fluoride rinse as well
  • Whenever you take out your retainer, put it safely in its case. Brush and floss before putting it back in after each meal
  • Gently brush your retainer to keep it clean, and use retainer cleaning tablets if desired.
  • Follow Dr. Johnston’s recommendations and avoid sticky, chewy, and hard foods that can damage your braces.
  • Keep your regular dentist appointments

Will my braces interfere with sports?

You can enjoy your favorite sports; however, you will need to wear a special mouth guard that will protect your teeth.

Will I need a retainer?

In nearly every case, retainers will follow orthodontic treatment. The retainer is to ensure that your teeth don’t shift after orthodontic correction.