8 Key Things to Consider When Choosing an Orthodontist

Did you know that four million Americans have braces? 25% of those Americans are adults with braces. 

Are you one of the millions of Americans with braces, or are you considering getting some orthodontic work? There are a few things you should consider before choosing an orthodontist. 

This guide will list some things you should keep in mind when searching for the perfect orthodontist. Keep reading to learn what they are. 

Also Read: Foods to Avoid With Braces

1. Their Experience Level

Before choosing an orthodontist, it’s important to consider their experience level. This might help you choose between your top two picks. 

While an orthodontist that got top-quality education might be ready to take on patients, they don’t have the experience level you might feel most comfortable with. The more experience an orthodontist has, the better prepared they’ll be to help you. 

While new orthodontists are capable of giving great treatment, you should still consider how long they’ve been practicing. Make sure your orthodontist is capable of providing basic care and taking on complex work. 

2. The Staff

When deciding between orthodontists, it’s a good idea to take a look at the staff too. Your orthodontist doesn’t work alone, and having a qualified and experienced team is an important thing to pay attention to. 

Does your orthodontist have a team of dental assistants and hygienists? Consider looking up information on each team member to find out the level of experience they have too. 

You want to choose a professional team and provide great service and one that’s friendly. This is especially important if you’re looking for an orthodontist for your children; you want them to feel as comfortable as possible when receiving care. 

3. The Office

A well-run office is an important thing to consider before making your first appointment. Call ahead of time to ask for a tour of the office if possible. 

If the entire staff is professional and friendly, you know you’ll be in good hands. You also have to consider the general aspect of the office as well. 

When visiting, make sure to check how clean and organized it’s kept. If the staff is nice but doesn’t pick up the phone or call you back when needed, this is a sign of a disorganized office, and you should stay away. 

4. Location and Hours

Before making your first dental appointment, make sure the orthodontist you choose is in a good location and offers flexible appointments. While regular dental cleanings are only required twice a year, orthodontic work might require many more visits to the office. 

If you’ll need to go in for treatment every couple of weeks, it’s important to choose an orthodontist that’s close to your home or workplace. This will make it easier to schedule appointments around your busy life. 

Consider choosing an orthodontist that offers flexible evening or weekend hours. This can make it easier to schedule an appointment, so you don’t miss school or work. 

5. The Technology Used

The best orthodontists will have the latest technology in their office. This is something you should keep in mind before making a decision. 

An orthodontist office with quality technology can offer the best treatment plan for your specific needs. Updated digital x-ray systems will make procedures easier for you. 

While traditional metal braces might be the best choice, orthodontists should also offer more advanced treatments like Invisalign for more comfortable and faster teeth straightening processes. 

6. Pay Attention to Costs Too

While you might be looking for affordable treatment, something that’s too inexpensive might prove to cost you more in the end. A high-quality orthodontist will work with you to provide the treatment you need without causing you to go over your budget. 

Look for an orthodontist that offers a low-cost initial consultation. This will allow you to get an initial assessment, so you know what kind of treatment you need without having to pay so much from the start. 

Many orthodontists offer payment plans so you can pay for your treatments monthly. 

7. Treatment Options Offered

Look for a place that not only offers the orthodontic treatment you need but a variety of treatment options. This will show that your orthodontist has the training and experience to work with all kinds of patients and is skilled enough to fix all kinds of issues. 

Whether you’re interested in Invisalign or clear ceramic braces, it’s important to find out what your orthodontist offers before making an appointment. While you won’t need every kind of orthodontic treatment offered, it’s important to know that you have many options to choose from to cater to your specific needs. 

Visit a family orthodontist today so you can reap all the benefits of getting the dental care you need. 

8. Consider Looking at Reviews

No matter the level of experience or education, the thing that matters the most when choosing an orthodontist is patient experience. How the orthodontist makes the patient feel comfortable during treatment can help you determine if a specific orthodontist is right for you. 

Read online reviews both on the orthodontist’s website and other places on the internet. Other people’s experiences, whether bad or good, can help you choose which orthodontist is right for you. 

What to Consider before Getting Orthodontic Work

When you need orthodontic work and are looking for the right local orthodontist, there are a few things to consider before making a choice. It’s important to research their experience level and the type of treatments they offer. 

Did you find this article informative? Make sure to check out some of the other health-related blogs on our site for similar content.