How to Look for a Trustworthy Orthodontist

You wouldn’t trust just anyone to perform a major surgery. You wouldn’t put your critical illness in the hands of a doctor you found on Craigslist. And it would be best if you didn’t trust your teeth with a bargain bin orthodontist you read about in the classified section. 

Finding a trustworthy orthodontist is as important as finding a reliable realtor or lawyer. Your teeth are a temple, and poor care could cause permanent damage or lifelong discomfort. And even if you find an orthodontist who performs their job well, there’s a chance the in-person experience could be even worse than pulling teeth. 

In this article, you’ll learn about the importance of finding a good orthodontist and what to look for when searching for the best orthodontic care for your specific situation.

Why choosing the right orthodontist matters

Dental and orthodontic care is a standard part of life for millions of people. The monotony of oral care can convince some patients that the quality of the orthodontist isn’t important.

This assumption is not necessarily valid. An orthodontist is a medical specialist like a surgeon or an oncologist, and you’d undoubtedly seek the best care in those situations. Why wouldn’t you want the best care for your teeth?

And orthodontists are more than simply the professionals who work on your teeth. They can fit you for invisible aligners and can also help you create a plan accounting for all factors, from start to finish. They can recommend the proper care post-treatment and give you a big-picture overview of how your orthodontic care will impact all aspects of your life.

What to look for

Your priorities come first when searching for a new orthodontist, and everyone’s preferences are different. You should also consider if you need an orthodontist vs a dentist. Some people emphasize the quality of medical care, while others prefer to prioritize the in-office experience. Here is a quick guide to possible considerations when looking for a good orthodontist. 

Experience and education

Orthodontists have to start somewhere, but looking for a more experienced professional for the best care is wise. Few qualities are better than long-term experience with proven results, giving you the peace of mind to know you’re in the best hands.

Consider the orthodontist’s education as well. It’s not necessary to look exclusively for Ivy League-educated doctors. Still, ensuring the orthodontist received a degree from a real school with a decent reputation is a good idea. 

This may seem like overkill, but don’t skip this step! Most people assume their orthodontist is trustworthy. Assumption is the first step to disappointment or worse. Do your research, and don’t take anything for granted. 

Types of treatments

Orthodontists offer a service to patients. Like other caregivers or companies, these services differ from practice to practice. If you place a high value on versatile treatment options, consider searching for an orthodontist that offers all sorts of services, from surgery to standard care.

Orthodontic care is constantly changing with new technologies. The latest cutting-edge treatments may only be available at specific locations. Ensure you understand your needs, what aligners cost and learn whether a more novel treatment is preferable.

Reputation

Look online and talk to other patients. The orthodontist you’re considering may have a bad reputation. Carefully look at what other people say about each orthodontist you research. Read patient testimonials. Find out if the orthodontist has won awards or spoken at conferences. The orthodontist may have also earned high marks from companies and businesses. Make sure your orthodontist has a good reputation before deciding to go in for a consultation.

Cost

Orthodontic care is inescapably expensive. Not all orthodontists offer the same price points. First, make sure the office accepts your insurance. Then, make a pros and cons list detailing the risks of lower-cost treatment vs. the benefits of higher-cost treatment, and vice versa. 

If you need insurance, some offices may offer financing or payment plans. Others may even have discounts on certain treatments.  

In-office environment

Getting the best care is extremely important, but why suffer at the hands of a grumpy orthodontist or a hostile office environment? Research the in-person reputation of the office if highly personal and friendly care is important to you. An orthodontist is more than someone who works on your teeth – they are also a long-term resource to answer questions and provide expertise. If you value that personal touch and connection, consider finding an orthodontist known for family-friendly care.

List what you’re looking for

Everyone has different preferences. Some people prefer a highly experienced orthodontist, while others prioritize a family-friendly environment. While this article highlights the essential aspects of finding a trustworthy orthodontist, the preferences are entirely up to you.

Make a ranked list that highlights what you prioritize. This may surprise you and make you realize you never knew you valued one thing over another.

Bottom line

Finding a trustworthy orthodontist is a challenging exercise. Many people take oral care for granted and assume that orthodontists are all similar in quality. This is a dangerous assumption that could lead to long-term consequences. Don’t trust your pearly whites to just anyone!