The right doctor can build you up with encouragement, support, and understanding, while the wrong one can leave you in the dark regarding outstanding care.
Finding the right care provider can be a bit hazy when choosing an orthodontist. Not every orthodontist has the same experience or credentials, and some don’t offer the best treatment options available in the industry.
If you have questions about how to choose an orthodontist, this post is for you!
We’ll explain how to choose an excellent orthodontist, some red flags of selecting an orthodontist, and how to compare orthodontists to find the right one for you.
Let’s get started!
How Do I Choose a Good Orthodontist?
As you start looking for an orthodontist, remember there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for “the best” orthodontist.
You and your family will have unique needs when it comes to orthodontic health!
Determining what you want is the first step in making your decision. Once you have a checklist of what you want, finding the right fit is easier.
Here are some things to consider as you make your list!
1. Ask for Recommendations
Referrals from loved ones are often a great place to start when searching for an orthodontist.
Check with your friends and family to see who they visit, and ask them how happy they are with the level of treatment.
You can also check with your dentist for recommendations; however, a referral to an orthodontic specialist is not required!
Visiting an orthodontist who often works with your regular dentist can improve orthodontics treatment because they can help your orthodontist get a clear picture of your oral health.
2. Research Their Credentials
Not all orthodontists have the same certifications.
Believe it or not, only 63% of orthodontists are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.
Choosing a board-certified provider means your orthodontist dedicates themselves to excellence.
Are they a specialist? Anyone can say they are an orthodontic provider; however, orthodontists take an extra 2-3 years to master their craft in orthodontics.
Did they practice dentistry prior to becoming an orthodontist? Both our doctors practiced dentistry prior to specializing in the field of orthodontics. They are better able to communicate and co-treat with your general providers!
3. Consider Potential Treatment Options
You want to choose an orthodontist who offers the treatments you need.
For example, if you want Invisalign treatments or more comfortable self-ligating braces, you must find an orthodontist who carries those products. Otherwise, you may be unhappy with your treatment.
Modern equipment, such as digital imaging software, digital X-rays, and 3D oral scanners, is also a sign of a good orthodontist.
This equipment means they’ve invested in advanced orthodontic tech to provide the best treatment possible.
4. Research Before & Afters
Does your orthodontist have quality before and afters on their website and/or social media? Are they and their patients proud to showcase their new smiles? If not, ask why?
5. Practice Ownership
Does your orthodontist own the practice? Many general offices will bring an orthodontist into their practice to extend treatment options in one location. It’s great for patients; however, many times, the days of treatment will be limited, and the orthodontist can change.
At Orthobar, Dr. Grahl and Petersen are partners and the owners of the practice! Nothing is changing there. So rest assured, you will start with them and finish with them!
3 Warning Signs of a Bad Orthodontic Practice
Most orthodontists strive to provide quality patient care, but some don’t excel as well as others. Three things to avoid when selecting a new orthodontic practice include:
Poor communication. Speaking with an unknowledgeable staff that doesn’t prioritize your time is a sign of poor communication that could hurt your overall experience.
Unprofessional behavior. If you feel rushed or forgotten when you enter the waiting room or the practice doesn’t seem to prioritize comfort, it’s a sign that the office doesn’t put patients first.
Inconsistent treatment. A significant factor of successful orthodontics treatment is consistency. Orthodontists who consistently change treatment plans or try to oversell patients are major red flags. Also, most corporate orthodontic practices tend to have patients see a different orthodontist each visit.
Scanning through online reviews is a great way to spot these trends without having to experience them firsthand. If you notice that many patients highlight these warning signs, it’s a good reason to stay away.
How Do You Compare Orthodontists?
You will know when you find the right orthodontists for you! Your orthodontic care is a major commitment of 1-2 years, so find somewhere that you feel welcome and excited to visit. Instead of booking multiple consultations, consider the unique advantages Orthobar offers:
- Privately Owned Practice: Orthobar is independently owned, ensuring personalized care from start to finish.
- Board-Certified Orthodontist: Dr. Petersen is board-certified, demonstrating his commitment to providing the highest level of care.
- Kois Recognized Specialist: Our orthodontist, Dr. Grahl, is a recognized Kois specialist, offering you the expertise needed for exceptional results.
- Convenient Location & Hours: We’re located in a prime area with hours that fit your busy schedule, making it easy to prioritize your orthodontic health.
- State-of-the-Art Office: Our modern facility is equipped with advanced technology to ensure you receive the best treatment available.
- Dedicated Care: At Orthobar, your orthodontist is with you every step of the way, dedicated to giving you the best possible outcome.
By considering these factors, you can feel confident that Orthobar is the right choice for your orthodontic journey.
What Makes Orthobar So Special?
At Orthobar, we want to do more than help patients achieve a better smile.
Our treatment philosophy is rooted in forming a genuine human connection with each patient and guiding them in making the best decisions for their orthodontic journey. As a privately owned practice with Dr. Petersen or Dr. Grahl, the orthodontist you start your treatment with is the orthodontist who will be with you every step of the way.
We also have a state-of-the-art office designed to make you feel comfortable from the moment you step in the door and cutting-edge technology to give you the best smile possible.
If you want to learn more about how we work at Orthobar, schedule a free consultation today to get to know us better!
