CHOOSING AN ORTHODONTIST
Choosing an orthodontist to trust with your smile, or your child’s smile, is an important decision. Orthodontic treatment is a process that can impact your oral health for years to come, so it is important to feel comfortable with both the doctor and the team caring for you.
Orthodontist or general dentist?
Not all providers offering orthodontic treatment have the same level of training. Some dental offices may advertise “specialized training” after only a limited number of continuing education courses. Before selecting an orthodontist, it is worth taking a moment to confirm credentials. One simple way is to search through the American Association of Orthodontists website to ensure your provider has completed the proper specialty training.
Education and experience are important.
Orthodontics is about more than straight teeth and awesome smiles. It involves guiding bone, improving bite function, and supporting long-term oral health. Orthodontists complete an additional two to three years of full-time residency training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on orthodontics under experienced specialists. That level of training allows for a deeper understanding of both the science and the art behind creating a healthy, lasting smile.
Why board certification matters.
Board certification is one more way an orthodontist can demonstrate their commitment to excellence. Board-certified orthodontists have completed hundreds of additional hours of preparation to demonstrate their judgment, clinical skills and knowledge. This certification is awarded by the American Board of Orthodontics, the only orthodontic specialty board recognized by the American Dental Association. To determine if the orthodontist that you are considering is board certified, you may look them up on the ABO Board Certified locator.
Who is overseeing your care?
It is also important to understand who is making decisions about your treatment. In some offices, much of the treatment process is delegated to assistants or clinical managers. At Myser Orthodontics, your family’s care is directly overseen by an orthodontist at every visit, so you always know who is guiding your treatment and your results.
A FEW OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
Trust Matters.
Choosing the right orthodontist is not just about credentials. It is also about trust and how you feel during the process. Ask friends, family, or your general dentist for recommendations. People who have gone through treatment can give helpful, honest insight.
Convenience is Key.
Consider location and scheduling. Orthodontic visits typically happen every couple of months, so convenience matters for both school and work schedules.
Flexible finances.
Review financing options. Look for a practice that offers the opportunity for payment plans, works with your insurance and helps make treatment manageable for your family.
Take the Time to Compare.
Orthodontists have different treatment styles, so getting a consultation from more than one office is a great idea. Do they have a pleasant chair-side manner? Do you feel like they're really paying attention to your concerns? Is the staff friendly and helpful? By visiting more than one office, you're more likely to find an orthodontist who can meet your individual needs.
Ask questions.
During your consultation, don't be afraid to ask questions. After all, that's why you're there! It's important for you to understand what type of orthodontic issues you have and the most effective ways to treat them. The more informed you are about your own dental health, the better decisions you will be able to make and the more comfortable you will ultimately feel with your decision.