Become a Patient

To become an orthodontic patient in our program, complete the following steps:

1. Complete and submit the Orthodontic Patient Registration and Health History form. We will contact you within one-two weeks after we receive the form to set up your required free screening appointment.
2. Once the screening appointment is scheduled, the patient or a parent/legal guardian (if the patient is under the age of 18) should:
   
   
   • Provide orthodontic (not medical) insurance information and take a picture of your insurance card (both sides).
   • Provide a photo of the patient's drivers license or that of the parent/legal guardian.
   • Complete the following paperwork.  Please provide the below information to us at least 24 business hours prior to coming to your appointment by either emailing it back to us at orthodontics@slu.edu or faxing it to us at 314-977-7782.
     • Sharing Health/Financial Information form (include the information of the person bringing the patient to the screening appointment).
     • Clinic Compliance Form
     • Assignment of Benefits Agreement
     • Consent to Radiographs and Orthodontic Records
     • Acknowledgement of Receipt of Saint Louis University Privacy Practices

Important: At the screening appointment, prospective patients under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (with proof of guardianship).  The prospective patient will be seen by an orthodontic faculty member or resident to determine whether orthodontics is an option, which category applies for pricing and whether the prospective patient is a candidate for the program. The visit includes a cursory examination of the teeth, jaws and mouth. Allow an hour and a half for the appointment.

If the patient is considered a candidate for the program, financial options and insurance coverage will be discussed at the screening appointment. We will only provide estimated insurance information if we receive all orthodontic insurance information on the online forms at least 24 business hours prior to the appointment. Please remember orthodontic treatment can take anywhere from one to two and a half years of active monthly treatment. Patients must be able to attend monthly daytime appointments in our office during school and work hours.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child be screened by an orthodontist by the age of seven. Early intervention results in less costly and less comprehensive treatment requirements. General orthodontic questions can be directed to 314-977-8600. When calling, press "1" for general information and then "1" again for orthodontics.

A referral from a dentist is generally required for endodontic and periodontic services. This can be arranged by phone. To schedule an endodontic or periodontal appointment, call 314-977-8600, press "1" for appointments and then "2" for endodontics/periodontics.

Dental Specialties provides comprehensive dentistry for children under the age of 12.  To schedule a pediatric dentistry appointment, call 314-977-8600, press "1" for appointments and then "4" for pediatric dentistry.