38 Reasons to Choose Orthodontic Affiliates
1. We are your Hometown Orthodontists…Why?
Dr. Surber and Dr. Schmidt:
…We are both, truly your Hometown Orthodontists.
2. We have a great reputation. Orthodontic Affiliates has treated over 100 of the area’s Dentists and family members.
The Orthodontic Affiliates method of non-extraction, conservative treatment is quite popular, not only with patients, but also with family dentists. We have treated over 100 of the area’s Dentists and their family members. This is a major vote of confidence, by our colleagues, and is one of the highest compliments an Orthodontic practice can receive. When fellow dental professionals choose our office to treat their families, it is a major tribute to the quality of care we provide.
3. Over 60,000 satisfied patients
Orthodontic Affiliates has treated over 60,000 patients, including many children of former patients. Our desire is to make you a part of our orthodontic family, in such a way, that you feel comfortable recommending our office to your family and friends. We are very proud of the fact that the largest source of referrals to our practice come from former patients.
4. Friendly, fun atmosphere
We have a family-oriented practice and are dedicated to providing energetic and fun-loving service for each patient. Much care was taken in the design of our offices to make every one of your visits enjoyable and a truly positive experience. Our patients receive an Orthodontic Affiliates t-shirt, with a QR code on the back, they can wear to win “OA Smile Rewards” points on the day of their appointment. They will also want to wear it any time to increase their chances of winning our iPhone giveaway for referring-a-friend.
We realize the significance of brace removal day! We have a special celebration to congratulate our patients on this important day. For achieving this milestone, the celebration begins with colorful balloons, “OA Smile Rewards” points, which can be redeemed for gifts, and parents receive a “thank you for my beautiful smile” letter written by their child.
5. The Doctors have over 65 years combined experience as Orthodontic Specialists
Orthodontists are the experts uniquely qualified to correct “bad bites.”
The American Dental Association requires orthodontists to have at least two years of post-doctoral, advanced specialty training in Orthodontics, in an accredited program, after graduation from dental school.
Our patients benefit from the knowledge and expertise of two skilled clinicians with over 65 years of combined experience and excellence as Orthodontic Specialists. This is especially helpful for patients with difficult corrections, where our doctors consult with one another before, during, and after treatment which ensures an excellent result.
6. We treat more TMJ patients than any other practice in the Region
Orthodontic Affiliates has been a TMJ treatment-centered practice since the early 80′s having successfully treated and helped over 1,000 TMJ and MPD patients. Dr. Surber and Dr. Schmidt continue advancing their education into this complex treatment area. Our ” in-house” laboratory facilities allow for quick fabrication, of the needed appliance, for these treatments.
7. Highly trained team
Each member of our team is highly skilled and dedicated to providing energetic and fun-loving service to each patient. All of our orthodontic technicians complete a thorough training program, and are required to take National Certification examinations. Orthodontic Affiliates enjoys one of the most experienced Orthodontic staffs in Northwest Indiana many of which have been with us for over 25 years!
8. We have 7 offices to serve your needs
We have offices in Lake, Porter, and LaPorte counties. This convenience saves many families significant expense and travel time away from work or school. Upon becoming a patient, you may conveniently schedule a visit at any location. Our state-of-the-art Internet based practice software will make those appointments easily.
9. Convenient office locations with ample parking
All of our office locations provide “up to the front door” parking. None of our offices are located in busy, high-rise office complexes.
10. Reception area has free Internet access
You can access the internet on your personal electronic devices via our WiFi hotspot.
11. We are dedicated to being on time
We realize people have busy lives. We are often complimented by our patients . They appreciate not having to wait an unreasonable amount of time…even in the busy after school rush hours.
12. State-of-the-art treatment techniques
The doctors at Orthodontic Affiliates continually strive to enhance treatment methods, as to improve the facial harmony, smile, and bite for all our patients. We use proven, state-of-the-art technology, to move teeth efficiently, while providing the highest quality treatment results.
13. Face-focused treatment plans (Emphasis on non-extraction treatment)
Typically orthodontists are often forced to pull teeth in order to create space for crowded teeth. No one likes to have teeth removed. Dr. Surber and Dr. Schmidt rarely need to remove teeth with their treatment modalities. Smiles with a full display of teeth often produce a broader, more natural smile and a much nicer profile. In those few cases which still require extraction, space is made to improve the facial balance and to provide a natural smile and profile that will last a lifetime., not the space.”
14. Functional Orthopedic appliances (NO HEAD GEAR)
Many orthodontic problems involve skeletal disharmonies. They may involve insufficient jaw growth or excessive growth. Because of our “Face Focused” approach to treatment, we attempt to resolve these problems with functional appliances. This method usually prevents the need for a surgical procedure. Major modifications of jaw size can be achieved if treatment is started when the patient is young. We recommend scheduling the first visit with the orthodontist at age 7.
15. Emphasis on early interceptive treatment
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends children have an orthodontic check up no later than age seven. While your child’s teeth may appear straight, there could be a problem only an orthodontist can detect. Of course, the check-up may reveal that your child’s bite is fine, and that can be comforting news. For each patient who requires treatment, there’s an ideal time to begin, in order, to achieve the best results. Early treatment gives Dr. Surber and Dr. Schmidt the opportunity to:
The goal of early treatment is to create a better environment for your child’s permanent teeth and facial appearance. teeth.
16. Adult treatment
Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age. Approximately 25% of our patients are adults. You’ll be pleased to learn braces will work with your current lifestyle. You can do almost anything with braces—sing, play a musical instrument, dine out, kiss, and even have your picture taken. It’s never too late to improve the health of your teeth and gums. Orthodontic Affiliates has successfully treated patients in their 60′s and 70′s.
17. FAAB: Fast Acting Adult Braces offered
Great news! Orthodontic Affiliates now offers FAAB… Fast Acting Adult Braces for adults. If you’re hiding your smile… it’s holding you back. If you’re uncomfortable with your smile… you’re not free to show the world the real you. It means you can have the smile you’ve always wanted in less than a year and sometimes in less than six months. With Fast Acting Adult Braces your new smile will be ready for that next camera phone moment. So, whether your “social six” are crowded, spaced too far apart, or have shifted since wearing braces, we’ll give you a new reason to smile.
Fast Acting Adult Braces allow for orthodontic treatment and aesthetic adjustments on the anterior (front) teeth. By focusing on only the anterior teeth, orthodontic and cosmetic transformations can be achieved in a fraction of the time, with less cost, as with complete, traditional orthodontics. Clear ceramic braces are often used. Following treatment, an invisible retainer is bonded behind the anterior teeth to stabilize the finished treatment.
18. Invisible Retainers are bonded in after the braces are removed
We have all heard the stories about kids throwing their “removable” retainers away accidentally or their teeth shifting because they didn’t wear their retainers after treatment. Orthodontic Affiliates uses bonded “permanent” retainers behind the teeth to preserve our good work and your beautiful smile.
19. TMJ Treatment
Orthodontic Affiliates has been a TMJ treatment centered practice since the early 80′s having successfully treated and helped over 1,000 TMJ and MPD patients. Dr. Surber and Dr. Schmidt continue advancing their education in this complex treatment area. Our ” in house” laboratory facilities allow quick fabrication time of the needed appliances for these treatments.
20. Surgical Orthodontics
For non-growing patients with severe skeletal disharmonies, the doctors at Orthodontic Affiliates work as part of a team with an oral surgeon to correct the problem and achieve facial balance..
21. Invisalign “braceless” orthodontics
Invisalign® is the advanced way to straighten teeth and improve smiles. Using the latest technologies, Invisalign® straightens your teeth without metal braces. This is done by using a series of comfortable clear aligners that straighten the teeth. This treatment method costs about the same as braces. You can visit their website at: www.invisalign.com
22. Treatment progress regularly updated with the patient or parent
At each appointment, the doctor will evaluate oral hygiene, tooth movement, tooth alignment and how the bite fits. Parents are always welcome in the treatment area. We are available to address questions or concerns, and go out of our way to make your orthodontic treatment a pleasant experience. Please feel free to ask the doctors or a team member if you have any questions during your treatment.
23. Use of efficient “Space-age” orthodontic wires which shorten treatment time, require fewer visits, and exert much less pressure on teeth
Nickel titanium alloys (originally developed by NASA to deploy satellites into space) have been used for some time in the initial phase of orthodontic treatment. Recently, copper was added to nickel titanium creating a new space age wire, which is light years ahead of wires used in the past.
Thermal NiTi is what’s known as a shape memory wire. When you touch this wire, it is very soft and easily bent. However, when the wire is warmed by the mouth, it will return to its original shape and gradually become more stiff. Thermal NiTi is also special because it doesn’t need to be adjusted or changed as often, allowing increased time between appointments. We will probably leave the same wire in your mouth for two to three months to allow it to gradually move your teeth to their new position. Like new appliances that are more efficient in the home, this wire is more efficient in your mouth. This means less time away from school or the office.
24. Low-profile braces
We no longer use your mother’s braces…no more bands around the teeth, no more head gear, no big wires. Today’s braces are small, esthetic, low profile, and easy to place. You could read a book while they are being placed on your teeth!
25. Use of Clear braces
Some of our patients may choose to have clear braces on their front teeth. They are less noticeable and may be an option if you are not a candidate for Invisalign® treatment.
26. Kids can choose colors for their braces
Kids love to express themselves and show off their braces, like a fashion statement. We offer a large selection of color choices. Choose a different color every visit! Most kids mix and match many different colors.
27. Latest infection control procedures
Our commitment is to maintain the highest level of safety and well-being for our patients and team. Our practice meets or exceeds all of the requirements of the Centers for Disease Control, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the Environmental Protection Agency for infection control procedures in an orthodontic environment.
28. Free Exam, Panorex, and Consultation ($160 value)
A referral from your family dentist is not necessary for this comprehensive exam, which includes: oral exam, Panorex X-ray, and consultation by the doctor. (clicks to our drop down page with all of our direct mail cards).
29. Ability to start patient’s orthodontic treatment on the day of the initial consultation
For your convenience, we are able to take orthodontic records on the day of your initial exam. This eliminates the need for an extra appointment and allows treatment to begin immediately.
Kids also earn “Smile Rewards Points” for starting the day of their consultation.
30. Affordable fees-No hidden charges
Orthodontic treatment is an excellent investment in the overall dental, medical, and psychological well being of both children and adults. Over the past 30 years, the cost of orthodontic treatment has not increased as greatly as other sectors of the economy, making it more affordable than ever. The fee quoted covers all appointments and procedures done in our office, appliances, braces and retainers needed during treatment.
Any procedure done out of our office or if an appliance is lost or broken is the patients responsibility. Dollar for dollar when you consider the lifetime benefits of orthodontic treatment, it is truly a great value..
31. Flexible Financing- No Money Down plans available
We are committed to developing a financing option that fits within your budget. We make financial arrangements to extend payments over a period of months or years. Some arrangements have No Down Payment. We offer this service with no finance charge and 0% interest. For your convenience we offer auto check drafting and automatic credit card payments. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. Third party financing is also available through CareCredit and Chase Health Advance.
32. Insurance accepted
We are experienced working with insurance companies. We work with all types of insurance policies and want to be sure you receive all the benefits to which your family is entitled.
We are also currently Orthodontic Network Providers for 21 Insurance companies.
33. Convenient scheduling
We make a sincere effort when scheduling your appointment, to ensure you receive the best treatment possible, while missing the least amount of time from school or work.
34. Family Care Program
When a patient becomes part of our practice, we feel a responsibility to the entire family. We will examine and monitor younger siblings at no charge until the time is right for them to start treatment. When any additional family member begins treatment there will be a $200.00 reduction in total treatment fee. As a family care provider, we welcome family members of all ages.
35. Discounted fee for additional family members
When any additional family member begins treatment at Orthodontic Affiliates there will be a $200.00 reduction in total treatment fee. As a family care provider, we welcome family members of all ages.
36. Fun patient involvement contests
Our patients love our fun contests, t-shirts, Win-a- Schwinn bicycle giveaways, iPhone giveaways, and they are excited to earn points on their OA Smile Rewards Card which can be accrued and redeemed for awesome gifts !!!
37. Smile Rewards Program for patients to win gifts and great prizes
Patients are excited to earn points on their OA Smile Rewards Card. Collect points and redeem for awesome gifts !!!
Here are just a few ways to earn points:
38. Cool office logo T-shirt with QR code given at starting appointment for patients, and newly referred friends to win gifts, $250 fee reduction coupon, and enter the iPhone giveaway
All patients who begin treatment receive a cool t-shirt with the Orthodontic Affiliates Logo and QR code to win points, gifts, fee reductions for referred friends, and a chance to win an iPhone for both parties. Scan our QR code or go to our “Promotions tab.”
