subject: Choosing the Right Orthodontist [print this page] An orthodontist is a type of dentist who focuses on diagnosing, preventing and correcting crooked teeth and misaligned jaws.
Orthodontists for Children
Children should undergo a screening by an orthodontist by age 7, as this is the time that growth-related problems can be identified. By age 12, about 90 percent of your child's face has developed, so if oral problems are found, treatment can actually guide facial development. Early orthodontic treatment can prevent more severe problems from developing, and is often more economical.
Orthodontists for Adults
Millions of adults across the United States are undergoing orthodontic treatment. Adults are actually more likely to need orthodontic treatment as many suffer from damaged teeth as a result of wear and tear and bone loss. Orthodontic treatment in adults can help prevent more severe problems such as tooth loss.
How to Find the Best Orthodontist
When looking for the best-qualified orthodontist, you must first determine who needs orthodontic work: an adult or a child. Ask friends, family members, coworkers and even your family doctor for recommendations.
Some important factors to consider when looking for a new dentist might be:
The location of the dental office (you are more likely to maintain appointments if the office is closer to your home)
Availability of appointment times and office hours
After-hours emergency care
Finding a new orthodontist is important. Remember that if you find one, and are completely satisfied, it is entirely acceptable to change orthodontists.
The Initial Consultation
Arrange a consultation (many orthodontists will offer this at no cost) and ask your prospective orthodontist:
How long he or she has been practicing
How many patients they have treated as an orthodontist
What orthodontic options they offer (clear braces, Invisalign, etc.)
How they handle orthodontic emergencies
Whether they have any affiliations with other dental professionals in the area (such as general dentists, oral surgeons, etc.)
If evening and weekend appointments are available
The types of financing they offer
If they are affiliated with a local hospital or clinic
The best orthodontists will listen to all of your questions and concerns, and answer everything completely and patiently.
Addressing Your Needs After Treatment
One important thing to bring up during your initial meeting is how your prospective orthodontist will address your needs after treatment. This will give you some insight as to how concerned he or she is with your overall satisfaction.
Selecting an orthodontist who meets your needs and expectations is a decision that is too important to make without careful consideration. When you need an orthodontist, you want a dental professional you can trust. Do not choose your orthodontist based on cost and advertisements.
Patient References
If you are able, talk to current patients in the waiting room. You can also ask the practice to provide contact information for current and former patients to get an idea of how the orthodontist treats different patients. Make sure to look at before and after photos (of actual patients) to see the type of work your orthodontist performs.
