Finding the right orthodontist for you is crucial to the overall success of your treatment. After all, your orthodontist is at the helm of the ship, directing your treatment plan to achieve the best results for your personal situation. When it comes to finding the right orthodontist, it may not be the first doctor that you meet. You may have to meet with a few orthodontists to find the one who is best suited to you. Just because there are many orthodontists available, doesn’t mean that they all have your best interests in mind. So, what makes a good orthodontist? Here are some tips for finding the right fit for you.
Trustworthiness
Orthodontic treatment is a big investment of your time and finances, neither of which you want to spend on something you may not need. Unfortunately, as in most businesses, some practices are more interested in making money than they are in properly servicing their patients, so finding an orthodontist you can trust is key. Talking to people you know or getting a referral from your dentist are both good ways to determine if an orthodontist you are considering is trustworthy or not. Online reviews can also be helpful, but take them with a grain of salt since you don’t personally know the reviewers. In the end, the most important factor is whether or not you personally feel you can trust the orthodontist to provide the care you need at a cost you can afford.
Well-Versed in the Field
A good orthodontist has experience in the field and has had to deal with many different orthodontic issues. Every patient is unique, so a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. Being able to design the best solution for every individual patient is a sign of a good orthodontist. Your orthodontist should also be a trusted source, and open, honest communication is crucial to the orthodontic process. Your teeth are a big deal and relying on a less-than-trustworthy source isn’t a good idea.
Take a moment to learn a bit about your orthodontist’s education. Most orthodontists will have their credentials prominently displayed in their office, but if you can’t locate them, simply ask to learn more. A trusted orthodontist will have no problem providing you with more information about themselves and their practice.
Experienced and Friendly Staff
An orthodontist’s staff is a direct reflection on them, and a good staff should provide a warm and welcoming environment for their patients. This can be a time where anxiety is at its peak with many patients, and it helps to walk into a friendly office for your appointments. The staff and office environment should put your mind at ease during this stressful time. Aspects of a welcoming office include:
- Friendly faces
- Bright, cheery space
- Informative displays
- Educated staff
- Comfortable atmosphere
Your orthodontist’s office should be equipped with the most current technology, and a convenient location is an added bonus that makes seeing your orthodontist a breeze.
Product Selection
There’s no doubt about it, the field of orthodontics has come a long way in recent years with so many products available to correct various orthodontic issues. A good orthodontist keeps on all of the latest breakthroughs in the field, helping them to be prepared for whatever issue walks in their door. Helping you find the right product that meets your needs, whether it’s Invisalign, braces or something else is an important part of the orthodontic journey.
The Right Orthodontist
At the end of the day, you need to choose the orthodontist that best fits your needs and your lifestyle. Sometimes, it just isn’t a good fit, so don’t compromise quality over convenience, someone else’s opinion, or anything else. In finding the right person to help guide you on your journey to a perfect smile, you’ll be able to achieve the look you desire and get the best possible results.
