Kunik Orthodontics in Austin, Texas
Medical and dental procedures always seem a little confusing and hard to navigate. We wanted to get to bottom of this with Dr. Kunik.
We had lots of questions for Dr. Kunik who has been perfecting the art of orthodontics for over 30 years. Patients commonly ask about pricing, retainers, Invisalign, and braces. We asked those questions but also the hard-hitting questions about why patients should come to his office and what does he do that differentiates his office from all the others.
Commonly Asked Questions from patients
Do you charge more for Invisalign than braces?
Dr Kunik: “I see Invisalign and braces as tools for orthodontics. At the initial exam we customize a plan for each patient and decide which tool will work best to achieve the goal. Occasionally both tools are needed. Treatment fees are based on difficultly of case, length of case, and required case management and not the tool needed to achieve the goal.”
Do you charge for broken brackets or emergency appointments?
Dr Kunik: “No. Broken brackets happen, and it could be a weak bond to the tooth or something the patient eats but no. It is best to add the bracket back on so we can move forward with treatment.”
What is included when I decide to go to Kunik Orthodontics for my treatment?
Dr. Kunik: “At the initial exam, Beth will review everything included in treatment. Typically, each case includes Dental Monitoring, Invisalign or braces, and 2 sets of retainers at the end. In some cases we require more in office appointments, in this case we prefer to see you in the rather than virtual appointments through Dental Monitoring.”
Do you do veneers or crowns in your office? Are they included in treatment?
Dr. Kunik: “We stick to what we know which is orthodontics. We do not do veneers, cleanings, crowns, fillings, or any general dental work in our office. We can refer you to a great cosmetic dentist if you do not currently have one.”
Hard Hitting Questions
Why aren’t your prices listed on your website?
Dr Kunik: “There are many variables with fees, so we don’t list them on the website. It would be hard for people reviewing the website to diagnose their bite and figure out their fee. The fees vary depending on an individual’s goals, case management requirements, case complication, and treatment length.”
Why should people choose you for their orthodontist?
Dr Kunik: “My treatment plans and my staff. My job is to set up the proper treatment plan and customize it for each patient and to make sure the goals we set are achieved. It is also my job to train the best staff. My #1 goal in my office is to have employees that care. I hire and keep exceptional people that are caring and incredibly knowledgeable. I train mini-orthodontists. From day one my philosophy has always been that the patients pay their checks and not me.”
Why do you use Dental Monitoring?
Dr. Kunik: “Dental Monitoring is great for virtual appointments, and I am able to keep a close eye on all my patients. It’s biggest benefit is communication. My patients can message with any question and get an answer rather quickly, and I can use the scans to communicate with their dentist, periodontist, or surgeon. It is an incredible tool for evolving and looking forward to the future of orthodontics.”
What are the hidden costs (for patients) in your office?
Dr. Kunik: “The initial fee we give includes your treatment for the prescribed months, Dental Monitoring, in office visits or virtual appointments, and 2 sets of retainers. There can be other fees due to missing several appointments, noncompliance, lost retainers, teeth shifting due to not wearing retainers. I do my best to be reasonable and fair when these things happen. I offer a discounted retreatment fee and I offer several options when noncompliance becomes an issue. We do have to charge for these occurrences since our office also incurs additional costs.”
Fun Questions
How many kids do you have?
Dr. Kunik: “I have 6 kids. My oldest is 28, then I have triplets that are 26, and twins that are 13.”
What is your favorite food?
Dr. Kunik: “Spring rolls with peanut sauce”
What do you order at Starbucks?
Dr. Kunik “Simple and easy, just a soy latte.”
Do you have any pets? And can we see a photo?
Dr. Kunik “Yes I have 2 mini goldendoodles and they are my babies.”
Dr. Kunik is ready to meet you and answer any questions you have about orthodontics or his favorite color. Come meet Dr. Kunik and his staff
