New Patient Information
Welcome to Smile By Dr. K
What to expect
as a new patient
From your very first call to your final appointment, we’re committed to making your experience clear, comfortable, and genuinely life-changing.
Your First Visit
What happens during your
airway evaluation?
Your complimentary evaluation is a real diagnostic visit — not a sales pitch. Here’s exactly what to expect:
1
Airway & Health History
We start by listening. Dr. K reviews your (or your child’s) health history, symptoms, and concerns — including sleep quality, breathing habits, energy levels, and any prior diagnoses.
2
Clinical Examination
Dr. K evaluates the jaws, teeth, bite, and tongue position in person. He assesses nasal breathing capacity, tongue tie status, and signs of airway dysfunction.
3
Imaging (If Indicated)
For many patients, 3D CBCT imaging is recommended to visualize the airway, jaw, and dentition in three dimensions. This is discussed in advance and not required at every visit.
4
Findings & Options
Dr. K explains what he found — clearly, in plain language. If treatment is appropriate, he’ll present your options, timelines, and expected outcomes. No pressure. No obligation.
5
Q&A
We take as much time as you need. This is a big decision and you should leave with every question answered — not rushed out the door.
6
Next Steps (Only If You’re Ready)
If you’d like to move forward, we schedule your records appointment and begin the treatment planning process. If you need time to think — that’s completely fine.
Common Questions
Everything you need
to know before you come in
Is the first appointment really free?
Yes. Your initial airway evaluation with Dr. K is completely complimentary — no cost, no hidden fees. We believe no one should face a financial barrier to finding out if their symptoms have an airway connection.
How old does my child need to be?
We see patients as young as 3 years old. Early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment — but it gives us a baseline and allows us to monitor development. If your child is already showing signs (mouth breathing, snoring, bedwetting, ADHD-like behavior), earlier is better.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring any prior orthodontic or dental X-rays you may have, a list of any medications (for you or your child), and your insurance card if applicable. Most importantly, bring your questions — we encourage patients to come prepared.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We accept most major orthodontic insurance plans. We also coordinate with medical insurance for sleep-related diagnoses. Our team will review your benefits and help you maximize coverage before any treatment begins.
How long do appointments typically take?
Your initial evaluation is typically 45–60 minutes. Follow-up treatment appointments are usually 20–30 minutes. We respect your time and run on schedule.
Which location should I come to?
We have two locations: Northridge (serving the San Fernando Valley) and Newbury Park (serving Ventura County). Dr. K practices at both. Choose whichever is most convenient, and you can always transfer between locations if needed.
Insurance & Financing
We work with
your coverage
Orthodontic Insurance
Most major PPO orthodontic plans are accepted. We’ll verify your benefits before your first appointment and clearly explain what’s covered.
Medical Insurance
For sleep-related airway diagnoses, medical insurance may cover a portion of treatment. We help you navigate the coordination between dental and medical coverage.
Flexible Payment Plans
We offer in-house payment plans and work with third-party financing options so that cost is never a barrier to getting the care you need.
Transparent Pricing
No surprise fees. Before any treatment begins, you’ll receive a complete breakdown of costs, insurance coverage, and payment options — in writing.
Ready to take
the first step?
Call us, email us, or fill out the contact form. Your complimentary evaluation is waiting — and it could change everything.