Choosing the best orthodontist in your area can be a tough job. The advanced orthodontic options available nowadays widen your range of potential specialists and make the selection quite complicated. Adding to that, you must note that oral treatments are complex, costly and prolonged. Each procedure may sometimes take months or even years to complete, depending upon the patient’s condition.
You are paying a hefty amount and practically handing over the fate of your smile into the hands of a stranger. Naturally, you will be willing to go for someone whom you can trust, and one who addresses all your concerns. Finding the right person can be a grind, and you cannot stop wondering who’s the best orthodontist around me.
To help you narrow down your selections and decide well, here is a list of few things to consider when looking for the best orthodontist in your vicinity:
- Qualification and experience
While doing research, you must compare and contrast the experience as well as the educational background of each specialist. It is fundamental for an orthodontist to have a particular level of higher education, graduation degree, a doctor of dental surgery degree and further training in this field. And if they are Board certified, it adds to their training and expertise. Thanks to the tech-era, you can easily look up online or make some calls to find out their experience and qualifications.
- Dentist Referrals
Your dentist works in coherence with the local orthodontists and knows the competence of each. So, you must seek his/her suggestion before you make your selection. In addition, you can gain useful information from your friends and family by asking them about their experience with nearby orthodontists.
- Orthodontic treatment options
Varying from metal braces to Invisalign, there are numerous treatment options available to align your teeth. To be on the safe side, you must carry out some research on your dental condition. Find out the treatment options offered by local specialists to treat your issue and pick someone who is a pro at this particular procedure. Once you’ve gained all the information, you can also ask better questions in your initial consultation and sort out all your concerns.
- Comfortable office and staff
When you are looking for an orthodontist, you must find someone who makes you feel at ease. Along with the specialist, the entire team such as the clinical assistants and scheduling coordinators should be approachable. Find out the qualifications of every staff member then opt for a place where you feel your concerns will be addressed and supported.
Orthodontic treatments can last anywhere from 1 – 2 years or even more. Given the significant amount of time you are going to spend at the orthodontist’s office, you must find a place that makes you feel relaxed. Visit the offices you are considering and go for a place that is clean, spacious and welcoming.
- Payment options
Orthodontic treatment needs a significant financial investment. The industry today is diverse and marked with multiple payment options. You have to make efforts and find out an orthodontist who offers an option that works well for you. Make sure you understand all charges associated with your treatment fee. Since each case is different, try to understand your treatment plan and figure out all the underlying costs.
- Location and office hours
You will be visiting the selected orthodontist quite frequently over the course of your treatment plan. Therefore, it is important to consider the distance of their office from your home, school or workplace. Next, you must find out their work hours to ensure you can manage the appointments with your work or study schedules.
Indeed the whole process of finding a reliable orthodontist can be an overwhelming task. The changing nature of the field, various treatment options, and orthodontists available make the task of selection quite challenging. However, if you carry out thorough research of the field as well as your dental condition, this task can become pretty straightforward. Since most specialists offer a free consultation upon the first visit, it can be used as a perfect opportunity to make a note of all factors that will influence your further treatment.
So, make a move once you are fully satisfied and prepare yourself for the gorgeous grin that’s coming your way!