How Do I Choose the Best Orthodontist in My Local Area?

Only 35% of adults have properly aligned teeth. If you want to maintain a straight, stunning smile, visit the best orthodontist in town. They can determine which orthodontic procedure best suits your needs. 

About 20% of people with braces today are adults. For a more discreet option, you might want to consider clear aligners instead.

Not sure which orthodontist suits your needs? Here are eight tips that can help your search. With these tips, you can schedule an appointment with confidence.

Choosing the right orthodontist can ensure the best results from your treatment.

Start searching for an orthodontist and a straight, stunning smile with these tips today!

1. Gather Referrals

First, turn to friends and family members who live in town. Ask if they’ve visited a local orthodontist recently. If they have, you can start building a list of orthodontists to research further. 

As you talk to each friend, try to learn more about the orthodontist and the orthodontic treatment they requested. For example, you might want to ask:

• Was the orthodontist experienced
• Were they easy to talk to
• Did they push treatments on you
• Do they offer multiple treatment options
• Were you satisfied with the results
• How much did it cost

Learning more about their experience can help you find the best orthodontist on your list. You can also determine which orthodontists to avoid.

If your friends can’t refer you to an orthodontist, that’s okay. Start searching for “best orthodontic practice near me” online.

Once you have a list of options to choose from, use the rest of these tips to narrow them down. 

2. Review Credentials

Before scheduling an appointment with an orthodontist on your list, it’s important to make sure they’re qualified to offer treatment. 

First, visit each orthodontist’s website. Learn more about their education. For example, where and when did they graduate?

Make sure they have a diploma from an accredited institution.

During your search, you might want to consider when each orthodontist graduated. Someone who graduated a few decades ago likely has more experience. However, it’s possible their knowledge is out of date.

If you prefer an orthodontist with more experience, make sure they’ve continued their education. Determine if they’re up-to-date with new technologies, procedures, and treatments. These orthodontists will strive to offer a higher standard of care.

If they’re out-of-date with trends in the dental industry, they might struggle to offer the orthodontic treatment you need. 

You can feel more confident in an orthodontist who keeps their credentials and education up-to-date. 

3. Look for Years of Experience

There are over 83,268 orthodontists and 11,932 practices across the US. Some orthodontists have more experience in the dental industry than others, though. Some practices have existed longer than others in the area, too. 

Visit each orthodontist’s Healthgrades.com or BBB listing. Determine how long they’ve owned their own practice. Consider how long each orthodontist has worked in the dental industry, too.

You can feel more confident in a professional who has years of hands-on experience treating patients.

Consider the type of orthodontic treatment you’re interested in as well. Then, determine how long the orthodontist has offered that specific treatment.

For example, you might find an orthodontist who only recently started offering Invisalign. Consider finding someone with more experience. Consider how many patients they’ve helped as well.

An experienced orthodontist will know how to customize each treatment plan with the patient’s specific needs in mind. If they lack experience, however, they might struggle to answer your questions. You might not receive the higher standard of care you’re expecting. 

4. Read Reviews

If you want to learn more about each orthodontist on your list, read reviews.

First, check the orthodontist’s website for testimonials. Check for before and after photos as well. These photos can help you determine if the orthodontist will meet your treatment goals.

You can also find reviews on the orthodontist’s Google My Business, BBB, or Healthgrades.com profiles.

As you read reviews, look for comments about the orthodontist’s professionalism. Try to find a professional who already has a strong reputation. Their reputation could speak to their abilities to accomplish your treatment goals. 

5. Explore Their Services

Remember, you’ll want to make sure the orthodontist you choose offers the treatment you’re interested in. Determine if the orthodontist offers the best dental braces in town by reading reviews. Otherwise, consider the other types of dental braces they offer. 

For example, you might want to consider ceramic braces.

The best orthodontist will review your treatment options with you. They can help you determine which course of treatment aligns with your goals.

If they start pushing a specific treatment on you, however, they’re possibly not the right fit. Instead, choose someone who will help you see the pros and cons of each option. 

6. Check Their Location

Before choosing an orthodontist, determine where their practice is located. You’ll need to visit for routine checkups throughout the year. Find a practice located near your home, work, or school.

You’ll have an easier time attending your appointments if they’re nearby.

7. Schedule a Consultation

Schedule a consultation appointment with one of the orthodontists on your list. Take the time to ask any questions you weren’t able to answer through your research. Learn more about the orthodontist’s experience and expertise.

On the fence about visiting an orthodontist for your child? Here are a few benefits of visiting a children’s orthodontist to keep in mind.

During your consultation appointment, ask which orthodontic procedure they would recommend. Determine what types of dental braces they have the most experience with, too.

After your appointment, consider how you felt. Were you comfortable around the dentist? Follow your gut. 

8. Check Your Insurance

Before making your final choice, make sure to check with your insurance provider. Determine if they’ll cover a portion of your orthodontic treatment. Determine which orthodontists on your list accept your insurance, too. 

Stunning Smiles: 8 Tips for Finding the Best Orthodontist in Town

You don’t want to choose the first orthodontist you find online. Instead, use these tips to find the best orthodontist in town. The best professional will ensure the best results from your orthodontic treatment.

After using these tips, you can start wearing the best dental braces for your perfect, straighter smile.

Searching for more tips? You’re in the right place.

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