5 Tips for Choosing an Orthodontist

There may be many dental and orthodontic care options available for you to choose from, which can cause decision-making to become overwhelming. However, there are some things you can do to make the decision easier on yourself. Here are five tips for choosing an orthodontist.

1. Do Good Research You can start by either searching online for best orthodontist near me and similar keywords or by reviewing recommendations given to you by your dentist. Once you have this initial information about your options, you should seek out the experience and educational background of each orthodontist on the list. Make sure each orthodontist you consider is American Association of Orthodontics certified. If you or your child need treatment for a specific condition, make sure the orthodontist you choose has experience treating that condition.

2. Get Recommendations

In many cases, particularly children’s orthodontic care, your dentist can recommend a good orthodontist to you. Dentists aren’t always also orthodontists, but they can assess the need for you or your child to seek orthodontic care. Many dentists will often work with orthodontists who have practices in the same geographic area, so your will have a good idea of the best options for you in terms of the condition you or your child has, the treatment required and the potential costs of that treatment. Once you have the recommendations, you can start researching and contacting those orthodontists.

3. Check the Costs

Orthodontic care can be expensive, so it’s important that you check with the orthodontist’s office to see whether your insurance will be fully or partially accepted or not. This will depend on your insurance provider and plan, your location and the policy of the orthodontist’s office. You should also ask the orthodontist about the cost of the treatment you or your child require. If, for example, your child needs braces and will need a retainer in the future, ask how much the braces, check-ups, tightenings, retainer and extra gear like rubber bands will cost. Check whether there are payment plans available. You should also ask how for an estimate regarding the period of time treatment will take and how that will affect pricing.

4. Consider Treatment Options

Orthodontic treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Depending on your needs or those of your child, there are several options available. Traditional metal braces and Invisalign are probably the most common treatments, used for simple realignment. Permanent and removable retainers are also common as methods of maintaining corrective treatment after braces are removed. If you have jaw alignment issues, you may require more specialized headgear. For congenitally missing teeth, additional mechanisms alongside traditional braces may be required. Tooth extractions, implants and the installation of bridges are also common.

5. Get an Initial Assessment An orthodontist will want to see you or your child for an assessment before proceeding with any treatment. Check whether or not a fee will be charged for the assessment before you schedule. When you go, do your own assessment, too. Study the office’s atmosphere and the cleanliness and modernity of the facilities. Try to get an idea of the professionalism and friendliness of the orthodontist and the rest of the office’s staff. Think about how comfortable you or your child feel during the appointment. These considerations are just as important as treatment options and costs. You deserve to feel comfortable and happy with your orthodontist’s demeanor and treatment methods.

As long as you keep in mind what you need and want out of orthodontic care, get to know the orthodontist and do your research, you’ll have an easier time making decisions regarding your dental and orthodontic care.

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