Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Orthodontist

As with any healthcare decision, choosing the right orthodontist is an important matter that deserves due diligence. There’s certainly no shortage of orthodontic practices in most populated areas, and sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference between them all.

Choosing the right orthodontist in an informed way matters because there are implications for your health or your child’s health. Also, the patient-provider relationship with an orthodontist can last for years, so finding one who’s a good match helps make the experience more pleasant in the long run.

Finding the Right Orthodontist

• Start by compiling a list of the orthodontic practices in your area.

• Ask your dentist or your child’s dentist if they have any recommendations.

• Ask local friends or family for recommendations if they’ve seen had orthodontic treatment.

• Look at websites to get an impression of the practices and gather basic information.

• Confirm that they are a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.

• Determine whether they take your insurance.

• Find out if they offer flexible payment plans.

• Consider how long they’ve been in practice; a long history of care in the same area indicates experience and quality customer service.

• See if they provide a variety of treatment options, like different types of braces and different types of clear aligners.

• Look for patient testimonials on the website.

• Read online patient ratings and reviews of the orthodontists you’re considering.

• Select an orthodontist that offers a free initial consultation so you can meet them and their staff and get a feel for the practice without having to pay.

• Pay attention to how well they communicate and answer your questions and whether they deliver great customer service.

• Consider whether the office environment is clean, well maintained, and pleasant.

• Ask questions about treatment options, payment options, frequency of appointments, ease of making appointments and getting in for emergency visits, and other aspects you want to know about.