There is no doubt that times are changing! From business closures to safer-at-home orders, daily life has started to look quite different than what most of us are used to. These unforeseen changes can leave you wondering how – and even if – you can go about seeking orthodontic care or continue your current treatment. Thankfully, today’s technology allows us to stay connected, even when we can’t physically be together. Dr. Clauss and his staff are taking full advantage of these advances in technology by implementing virtual visits and consultations in order to provide you with top-notch care!
Virtual visits are a somewhat recent development in telemedicine that makes it possible to conduct appointments and exams completely online. As we all continue to do our part and practice social distancing, it is still our goal to help you discover your smile. We’ve recently implemented virtual visits within our practice so that we can be there for you, regardless of where you are in your smile journey! To find out more about our new virtual visit services, keep reading below!
How They Work
Virtual visits are a relatively new service, so you may be unsure of exactly what it will consist of. Don’t worry though – the process is simple! You’ll simply fill out a form with your basic information, along with some photos of your teeth, and send it to our office. Dr. Clauss will review your photos and any notes you may have and reply with information and/or instructions for your continued care.
Taking photos can sometimes be an area of concern for some patients. Many people worry about getting the right angles or might be unsure of how to get the best pictures. This doesn’t have to be the case! We provide you with some example photos and even a short video on the best way to get clear, effective pictures that will give Dr. Clauss just what he needs to evaluate your progress. One thing to note: if you typically wear elastics, be sure to have them on in the photos. This lets Dr. Clauss make sure you’re wearing them properly, as well as provide any additional feedback.
Why They Matter
Oftentimes, as we get older, we learn more about how our oral health is tied together with our total body health. This leads many people to seek out orthodontic care for themselves or their children. However, as we continue to experience safer-at-home orders and are encouraged to keep practicing social distancing, it’s necessary to find new ways to approach dental health. This is why virtual visits are so important. Being able to keep up communication with Dr. Clauss and providing up-to-date photos of your teeth will help keep your smile progress on track!
Virtual visits can also be very beneficial in the case of any emergency. We know accidents happen and when you can’t get in to see your doctor it can be stressful. If you have an issue with your braces, retainer, or Invisalign aligners, you can easily set up a virtual appointment with Dr. Clauss, and he’ll help you find the best possible solution. If you’re experiencing minor discomfort or have any questions, sending photos or even a video conference can be the perfect solution! For many situations, Dr. Clauss is able to assess any damage and make suggestions using these tools alone. However, in the case of more severe emergencies, we are able to schedule an in-office visit.
How To Get Started
If you’re ready to take the first step to achieve the smile of your dreams, you’re in the right place! Dr. Clauss and his skilled team are prepped and ready to help you achieve your dream smile. Your first step is heading over to our COVID-19 Update page to select if you’re a new or current patient. From there, you’ll snap your photos! You can have someone take them for you or take some quick selfies – just remember to bite down on your back teeth! Once you send in your photos, your part of the work is done! Dr. Clauss will review your photos and reach out to you with follow up information.
We know this is a time of adjustment for many of our patients and their families. That’s why we want to make sure you have access to the best standard of care available. Social distancing doesn’t have to keep you from pursuing the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re already a part of our orthodontic family or are just starting to do your research, we’re here to help you find the treatment plan that’s best for you!
As you get started with your orthodontic treatment or continue along with a current plan, the most important thing you can do it keep up your oral hygiene! Maintaining a healthy oral care routine will help you keep your smile in tip-top shape as we each do our part to slow the spread of COVID-19. It’s critical that you brush your teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes, and floss every night before bed. These basic steps will help you to keep your smile on track, even when you can’t make it into the office! This won’t last forever, and you don’t want your treatment to fall behind just because you skipped out on the basics. Be sure to send in your smile selfies and stick to any guidelines put in place by Dr. Clauss in regards to your orthodontic treatment.
At Clauss Orthodontics, our top priority is providing you with excellent orthodontic care, while keeping you and your family safe and healthy. Change doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Schedule your free virtual consultation today and get started on the path to your dream smile, all from the comfort of your home!