Blog Highlights

• When considering orthodontic treatment it’s recommended that you do some research
• Speak openly with your orthodontist
• The length of treatment often varies by patient

It’s recommended that you visit your dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings. Your dentist monitors your overall oral health including the state of your teeth and gums. However, in some cases, you may need to visit an orthodontist.

Orthodontists study for an additional two years and are trained to treat more serious dental issues, such as jaw alignment. They also deal with more common structural problems including spacing, crowded teeth, overbites, and underbites.

When considering orthodontic treatment it’s recommended that you do some research and interview or get a consultation from any potential orthodontist. Here are some things to think about when choosing your orthodontist:

Qualified Specialist

You’re trusting this doctor with your smile. You want to make sure they are competent and deliver high-quality results. Before committing to an orthodontist, make sure they have some years of practical experience. Confirm that they are a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). The AAO only includes qualified professionals, who have completed the necessary training. It’s also worth asking friends and family if they have any recommendations.

Scheduling

To make your life easier in the long run, confirm that your potential orthodontist has reasonable business hours. Typically orthodontic treatment will require multiple visits to the office a year and you don’t want to constantly miss work or school. Many specialists now stay open in the early evening and are often on call during the weekend. It’s important to find an orthodontist who can work with your schedule.

Treatment Options

Speak openly with your orthodontist. In most cases, you may have multiple options for treatment. If, for example, you are self-conscious about having braces, let your orthodontist know. They should be flexible enough and caring enough to work with you to make you comfortable. They might recommend clear braces or even lingual braces which go behind your teeth.

Length of Treatment

The length of treatment often varies by patient. The average treatment is two years, but it can take longer. Ask your orthodontist what to expect and to give you an estimate. Any professional orthodontist should be able to give you a fairly accurate estimate. It’s also a good idea to ask how often you’ll need to visit the office before undergoing any treatment.

Cost

Orthodontic treatments can be expensive. Before making your choice of doctors, do a little price comparing. Different orthodontists often charge different prices for treatments. Make sure you know what’s included, especially if the orthodontist quotes you something suspiciously high. If a price seems significantly lower than others, make sure you know why and check on the quality of the doctor’s past treatments. Ask about any additional fees that might apply for regular checkups, so that you aren’t caught off guard in the future.