How to Choose an Orthodontist
Important Questions to Ask
You’ve Decided You Want to Seek Orthodontic Treatment. What’s Next?
This may sound like common sense, but…. choose an orthodontist for your orthodontic care! An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has graduated from dental school and then completed an additional two-to-three years of education in an accredited orthodontic residency program. You can rest assured that your best smile will come from an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics who possesses the top skills and expertise in the field.
Choosing the Right Orthodontist for Your Care
Making the decision to pursue orthodontic care is not insignificant. Orthodontic treatment is a commitment in time, finances, and even lifestyle- so when choosing an orthodontist for yourself or your child, you want to be certain the fit is right.
A good first-step is to ask your local friends, family, and even neighbors and colleagues for a recommended orthodontist. Chances are, people in your life have sought orthodontic treatment for themselves or their children, and they will be happy to shed some light for you.
Once you have a list of orthodontic practices in mind, we recommend doing a bit of background research. Check into the education backgrounds of each orthodontist you are considering and find out where they went to dental school, any kind of specialty training they may have, as well as their continuing education.
A good orthodontist will continue their education throughout their career as treatments and technology are always changing. You will also want to make sure your doctor is a licensed dentist and member of the American Association of Orthodontists.
Arrange Multiple Consultations
Once you have your shortlist of potential orthodontists, it is always a good idea to seek consultations with each office. This gives you the opportunity to get a feel for how the office is run, see how comfortable you feel with the prospective orthodontic team, how attentive they are, and feel out what it will be like to receive treatment from the orthodontist you choose. Every orthodontist has a different style when it comes to treatment, so you can get an idea as to whether the office is right for you.
Don’t Be Hesitant to Ask Questions
During your consultation time, make sure to ask questions. It is important for you to understand what the treatment options are, and what the ultimate treatment goal is for you or your child. You will also gain insight into how attentive the orthodontic team will be. If they take the time to answer your questions with consideration, they will likely take the same care with your treatment. The more informed you are about your orthodontic needs, the easier it will be for you to make good decisions about moving forward.
To book a consultation call 305-423-4130
Office Considerations
As you begin to make you decision on which orthodontic practice is right for you, some things you may want to take into consideration are:
- Who will ultimately oversee your treatment? (Hint: It should be the orthodontist rather than assistants.)
- Is the office in a location that will make appointments convenient for you to attend?
- Are extended office hours available outside of normal work and school schedules?
- Does the office work with your insurance plan if it offers orthodontic coverage?
- What kind of financing options are available through the office?
- Do the orthodontist and staff seem genuinely interested in you and your needs?
Learn More About the Pinecrest Orthodontic Difference
At Pinecrest Orthodontics, our goal is to make each potential patient who walks through our door feel that they have found the right fit for their orthodontic care. We strive to offer top notch orthodontic treatment in a caring and friendly environment. We aim to make each patient’s orthodontic journey a special one, from the initial visit through the day appliances are removed.
Contact our office today to schedule your complimentary consultation! We are your local Pinecrest orthodontic office, and also proudly serve the communities of Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, and South Miami. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile!