Your First Visit to Cool Braces

It's a free visit where you get a full exam, real answers, and a plan you can actually understand, and you won't need a referral unless you're on an HMO. Here's exactly what happens.
Doctor showcasing braces on jaw model to a teen

What to Bring

Honestly, not much. Bring a few basics and we'll take care of the rest:
Insurance card (if you have coverage)
Photo ID
A list of any medications or allergies
Your smile goals (even if they're just "I want to feel confident")
That's it. We handle the rest.
Doctor holding paperwork
Doctor holding x-ray of jaw

The Visit Timeline

Your first appointment takes about 60 minutes. Here's how it flows:
Insurance Verification: We verify before you even walk in. You'll know what's covered from the start.
Photos: We capture your smile on day one. You'll look back at these during treatment and be amazed at how far you've come.
Digital X-rays: Low-radiation panoramic and ceph X-rays. We see bone, roots, and jaw structure. The stuff that drives the plan.
Meet Your Treatment Coordinator: Tell us your goals. What's bothering you. What you're hoping for. We listen first.
Meet Dr. Tahir and Dr. Lia: Your actual doctors. They review everything, walk you through what they see, and tell you exactly what your teeth need.
Your Plan and Pricing: Treatment plan, timeline, cost, insurance breakdown, payment options. One page. No hidden fees. No numbers that change later.

Why Cool Braces Is Different From Old-Fashioned Orthodontic Solutions

When Dr. Tahir opened Cool Braces in 1995, he quickly learned that every patient is different. People need orthodontics for wide ranging reasons. Maybe it’s health related, or maybe you want your child to have the best possible prom photos. Since 1995, our main focus has been understanding each patient and giving them the best care for their individual needs.
Cool Braces Family
We don’t give cookie cutter answers or push you to generic treatments. We’re focused on the long term, so we help create the smile that still looks great even years from now. That’s why we have our 25-Year Smile Guarantee. If it doesn’t still look amazing twenty five years from now, we’ll work to fix it!
More than 30 years experience providing expert Orthodontic care in Oak Lawn and Berwyn
Fully customized strategies for each patient
25-year Smile Guarantee*
Cutting edge technology for faster and more reliable results
Flexible payment options for every budget
Fun, friendly practice - our patients become our friends!
Regular, reliable, ongoing care when you need it
* Learn more about our Smile Guarantee.
Father-Daughter Ortho Duo, Family Owned, Not a Corporate Chain

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a referral from my dentist?

Only if you're on an HMO plan. Most HMO patients come in with a referral from their dentist already in hand, ready to get started. If you're not sure whether your plan requires one, call us and we'll figure it out. Otherwise, book straight with us. For over 30 years, dentists across Chicagoland have trusted us with their patients. That's not something you earn overnight.

What if I have dental anxiety?

You're in good company. Between them, Dr. Tahir and Dr. Lia have guided 25,000+ patients through this. A lot of them showed up nervous. Tell us at the start and we'll move at your pace, explain everything before it happens, and skip anything that's not needed that day. Most patients tell us it was way easier than they expected.

How much will treatment cost?

Depends on your case, your insurance, and what your bite actually needs. We don't do vague ranges over the phone. The real answer is in your X-rays. After your free consultation, you'll leave with a real number, your insurance breakdown (if you have coverage), and a payment plan if you want one. No surprises. No pressure.

Can I start my braces the same day as my consultation?

Yes. If your case is straightforward and you're ready, we can place your braces the same day. We keep everything in stock for exactly that reason. Show up curious, leave with braces on. Or take the plan home and come back later. Your call.

What if I decide I'm not ready?

That's fine. Really. The consultation is free for a reason. Take your time, talk it over, come back when it feels right. Could be next week. Could be next year. We'll be here!

We're Ready When You Are.

Every confident smile begins with one decision. If you are ready to see how orthodontic treatment can transform your look, your confidence, and your life, we are ready to help.
Smiling family of five with a small dog behind a banner reading 'Cool Braces Family.'