How to Find an Orthodontist

Properly aligned teeth boost confidence in your smile and support good oral health. Finding an orthodontist with the skill set and experience you need is important. If you are still trying to figure out where to start, we have some advice to make your search easier. Rather than spending hours hunting for an orthodontist, you can streamline the search in several ways. These four ideas are some of the easiest to do.

Take advice from a healthcare professional

Orthodontics is a dental specialty, and it is common for members of the local dental community to know one another. In many cases, a regular dentist can recommend trusted colleagues who are local orthodontists. Though a referral's manner, personality, and location may not be right for every individual, a professional opinion is a good start when trying to find an orthodontist.

Reach out to friends and family

Friends and family are often the first places to start when looking for recommendations. Chances are you know a few people who have gone to or taken their kids to see an orthodontist in the area. Few recommendations are more trustworthy than someone you know well who can give you a first-hand account of their experience.

Check on public online opinions

Social media and the internet are some of the more popular ways to research health and dental care providers. In addition to reading a biography of the orthodontist or seeing pictures of the office, it is possible to find out how the general public feels about a particular provider.

Other websites, such as the American Association of Orthodontists, can help patients discover a practice's rating and read reviews from actual patients. An insurance plan will list available providers near the patient, as well. With this in mind, the patient can also ensure the orthodontist provides the specific services they need during a call or consultation.

Call and ask questions

Patients have a personal responsibility to conduct good research and ask questions before choosing an orthodontist. Referrals and opinions can help narrow the list, but asking questions can help you gain the reassurance needed to make a final decision. When choosing an orthodontist, consider the following questions:

• Does the provider accept dental insurance?
• How close is the location to the patient’s work, school, or home?
• Do the office hours limit scheduling appointments, so time off work or school is required?
• What is the general approach to orthodontics?
• What ages does the practitioner work with?
• How are after-hour emergencies handled?
• What treatments do they offer, and what are the costs?