While most teenagers dread being told they need braces, adults are eternally grateful they met with an orthodontist to help them get a perfect smile.
However, it’s essential to take the time to carefully choose the perfect provider for you or your child. After all, the fate of your smile rests in the hands of the orthodontist you choose!
If you’re not sure what to look for in a provider, keep reading for important factors to keep in mind before you select an orthodontist.
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Ask For Referrals
One of the easiest ways to find a trusted orthodontist for braces, expanders, or realignments is to ask your dentist for a referral. As your dentist knows your insurance information, they can point you in the right direction.
Similarly, you can also ask friends or family members if they have any recommendations. They may be more candid about their recommendations than your family dentist and offer better insight into their experiences.
Read Online Reviews
Once you have a few options for orthodontists in mind, you’ll want to check out the online reviews of different locations.
Reading online reviews offers valuable, firsthand insight into patients’ experiences with staff. They can discuss professionalism, kindness, cleanliness, and their overall impression of the office.
Remember, it’s important to critically read these reviews. Some disgruntled patients may leave untrue comments to undermine the office staff.
Consider Education and Experience
Next, you’ll want to look into the doctor’s experience. There are pros and cons to younger doctors, just as there are benefits and caveats with older practitioners.
Recent graduates may be more in tune with updated methods and procedures, while more experienced doctors have an established reputation. Remember, dental treatment experience doesn’t always mean they are a better doctor.
Either way, you’ll want to ensure your potential provider is from an accredited institution, licensed, and a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.
Schedule a Consultation
Finally, to ensure that you feel comfortable with a potential orthodontist, you may want to set up a consultation.
This offers you the chance to meet your providers as well as any assistants and office staff to help you feel more comfortable down the line. It also allows you to ask questions and get feedback.
When you want to improve your dental health, it’s crucial to ensure you feel comfortable in the chair! If you feel any doubts at all about a potential provider, don’t be afraid to restart the process until you find the right fit for you.
How to Select an Orthodontist: Your Simple Guide
Whether you need braces to straighten your teeth or have TMJ, an orthodontist is often a necessary part of oral health. Finding the best fit for you is vital to feeling comfortable.
Remember, improving dental health is essential to keeping the rest of your body healthy. Though scary, visiting an orthodontist can only help you look and feel your best.
Did you find the guide to the steps you should take to select an orthodontist useful? If so, you’ll want to check out the rest of our website. There, you can find more great health and wellness content.
