Choosing an orthodontic practice to trust with the beauty of your smile or your child’s smile is an essential decision. Orthodontic treatment has the potential to be a long process, so you’ll want to make sure you or your little one are comfortable with the doctor and staff.
Your orthodontic experience is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life, so make sure it’s something to smile about. Ask someone you trust for a recommendation.
Selecting an orthodontist may seem like a daunting task for someone who has never been through it, so it’s a great idea to ask for a recommendation from someone who has. Whether it’s a friend, co-worker, or family member, he or she will probably be more than happy to share a firsthand experience.
Your general dentist is also a great resource to get a recommendation. If his or her children have had braces, ask which orthodontist they used.
Consider education and experience
Once you have a list of a few orthodontists, do a little research. Find out about their educational background, where they went to school, and what kinds of continuing education or specialty training they’ve had.
Before you set up a consultation with an orthodontist, make sure he or she is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontists. This ensures the practice remains up to date on the newest and most effective clinical procedures.
Get a consultation from more than one office
Orthodontists have different treatment styles, so getting a consultation from more than one office is a wise idea. Some may offer specific orthodontic treatment options or products that others may not. Compare the length of recommended treatment time with the cost of that treatment.
It’s also crucial to feel comfortable with your orthodontist. Does the person have a pleasant chairside manner? Do you feel like he or she really pays attention to your concerns?
Is the staff friendly and helpful? By visiting more than one office, you’re more likely to find an orthodontist who can meet your individual needs while staying within your budget.
Ask questions
During your consultation, don’t be afraid to ask questions. That’s why you're there! It’s important to understand what type of orthodontic issues you have and the most effective ways to treat them. The more informed you are about your own dental health, the better decisions you will be able to make.
A few things to consider:
- Who will be overseeing your treatment: the orthodontist or assistants?
- Is the office located near your home or work to make appointments as convenient as possible?
- Do they offer extended office hours before or after work and school?
- What types of insurance does the office work with and what kind of financing does it offer?
- Do the orthodontist and staff seem interested in making your experience personalized or do you feel like “just a number”?
Orthodontist or general dentist?
Choosing an orthodontic specialist instead of a general dentist for your orthodontic treatment is a decision that will truly make a difference in your smile. Orthodontics is a big investment in your health and confidence, and the function and appearance of your smile. Why would you trust anyone less than a specialist?
A dentist must attend an additional two to three years of training at an accredited university residency program and then pass national board examinations in order to become certified as an orthodontist. This education, along with the experience of a practice dedicated solely to orthodontics, gives orthodontists a unique ability to create a customized treatment plan and carry out safe, predictable, and efficient treatment.
