Dr. Ernie Gardner

Piedmont Orthodontic Associates - Patient Information

Working with Your Family Dentist

Your family dentist has referred you to our office and naturally plays an important role in optimum oral health. It is important to return to your general dentist on a regular basis for exams and oral hygiene visits. We recommend that you visit your dentist at least twice a year and preferably three times a year if possible.

We recognize the value of good communication between doctors and have therefore made a commitment to work with your family dentist to enable the most comprehensive treatment program. We regularly communicate with your family dentist during your treatment as well as during follow up.

Patient Protection and Comfort

It is imperative that health care facilities consistently apply state-of-the-art sterilization and disinfecting techniques to provide patients with maximum protection. In our office, we are committed to your safety. Throughout the day, we continuously and thoroughly sterilize our equipment for your protection and adhere to or exceed every standard of infection control set by the Center for Disease Control and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Your comfort is also a top priority. We strive to make our office a relaxing and pleasant environment. In addition, we communicate with you every step of the way. During your initial consultation, the procedures will be thoroughly explained to you, and you will be kept informed during your treatment. We find an informed patient is more relaxed, allowing for optimum treatment results.

Financial Options

Several factors determine the fee for orthodontics, including the complexity of your condition. You will be informed of any fees before treatment is started. We understand your health care or dental insurance will not cover the entire cost of your treatment, and we make every effort to help you maximize your coverage and increase your reimbursement. We accept assignment from your insurance carrier. Financial options will also be discussed during the initial visit.

Dr. Gardner and his staff extend their commitment to providing excellent dental care by helping patients select the best payment option for their individual needs. Flexible payment options are available and are based on the responsible party's credit history. We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Capital One and Automatic Credit Card Draft.

Appointments / Scheduling

Because we want to make your first visit as convenient as possible, we mail the necessary health history forms to your home. Please bring the completed forms with you on your first visit. Your first visit will include a comprehensive examination followed by a thorough discussion of your orthodontic condition and treatment options.

With regard to scheduling and appointments, we value your time and pride ourselves on the efficiency of our office. We have convenient office hours that allow you to make an appointment that fits easily into your schedule. For our younger patients we make every effort to minimize time missed from school, although for some types of appointments you will be seen during the earlier part of the day to ensure the best results for you.

We are prepared to respond to emergencies should they arise and are always available to answer questions or help our patients in an emergency situation. After hours, please call (864) 585-8709.