Your First Visit When you enter Dr. Gartner's office, Marcy and Kathy will greet you. You will be asked to fill out medical/dental history forms and a registration form, or if you like, you may download the forms from this website. Just fill them out and bring the forms with you to the first visit. (Download forms) During your initial visit, Dr. Gartner will thoroughly examine your mouth, teeth, and jaws and determine if orthodontic treatment is indicated. He will also answer any questions you may have. If it appears that treatment is needed at this time, full diagnostic records will be scheduled. Only one parent needs to accompany the young or adolescent patient at this visit. After your records appointment, Dr. Gartner will study all of the records and determine the case diagnosis. At a consultation appointment, he will present to you this diagnosis, an outline of the treatment plan, and an estimated length of treatment time. A fee will be quoted and payment options explained. For our patients who are dependent children, Dr. Gartner likes to present this information to both parents, if possible. OUR PHILOSOPHY FOR YOUR CARE High quality care combines clinical expertise with a safe and comfortable environment. After a thorough diagnosis of the case, Dr. Gartner will thoughtfully develop a specific treatment plan. We are careful to explain each procedure during treatment, as the best results come when the patient is actively involved in the therapy. Understanding these procedures, and the critical part the patient plays, is essential to systematic treatment progress. While many of our patients have been referred to our office by general dentists, increasing numbers of our patients are referred by friends and family members who have benefited from orthodontics in our office. Of course, we appreciate and welcome recommendations from our friends and patients. In all cases, Dr. Gartner is careful to communicate and coordinate care with the family dentist to insure that the very best comprehensive treatment is rendered. We believe in having fun and our practice reflects the casual friendliness of suburban Park Ridge. WELCOME TO GARTNER ORTHODONTICS!