You’re never too old to straighten your smile with Sunset Valley dental care. In fact, 20% of patients with braces today are adults! Finding the right Sunset Valley orthodontist can ensure your care is in the best hands.
An experienced orthodontist can customize your treatment based on your unique needs. With their high-quality services, you can discover the smile of your dreams!
Not sure what qualities of an orthodontist to prioritize during your search? Read on to discover our best orthodontist tips in this comprehensive guide!
Credentials
Before using the rest of this orthodontic treatment guide, build a list of local orthodontists. You can start your search on Healthgrades or the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) directory. Otherwise, consult your dentist or primary care physician for professional referrals.
Use these resources to confirm that each orthodontist has the necessary credentials to practice in Texas. If they don’t have an active state license, remove them from your list.
Orthodontists are dentists who have completed additional training. Confirm they have completed a graduate program in dentistry. Did they receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD)?
To become an orthodontist, they must gain acceptance to a CODA-accredited orthodontic program. Completing a residency program can take two to three years.
To become a board-certified orthodontist, they must:
- Complete the ABO written exam
- Complete the ABO clinical exam
- Renew their certification every 10 years
Receiving their ABO board certification is voluntary. It represents an orthodontist’s public and personal commitment to achieving higher standards in their specialty. Determine if they trained in orthodontics or dentofacial orthopedics.
Orthodontists with this certification are dedicated to lifelong learning. Choose an orthodontist who has continued their education over time. These professionals keep up with best practices, new procedures, and the latest technology.
Experience
While visiting each orthodontist’s website or Healthgrades profile, check how long they’ve worked in the industry. There are 95,684 employees (a 2.1% increase since 2018) and 15,817 businesses in the US. As the orthodontics industry keeps growing, new practices will open.
These newer businesses may need to work out operational kinks before offering patients a higher standard of care. For example, they may experience issues when scheduling appointments. You could spend valuable time sitting in the waiting room if they’re unorganized.
Instead, choose a long-established orthodontic practice. Consider how long the orthodontist there has worked in the industry.
Their hands-on experience resolving alignment issues can work to your benefit. They’ll understand the problems you’re facing.
These orthodontists will leverage their experience to make customized recommendations for each patient. You can feel confident choosing an orthodontist with relevant knowledge.
Make sure the orthodontist’s experience aligns with your needs. Determine if they’ve treated your specific alignment issue. This could include:
- Crossbites
- Overbites
- Open bites
- Underbite
- Gaps between teeth
- Crooked teeth
Reputation
Ask each orthodontist for patient referrals and reviews. Otherwise, check their Yelp, BBB, and Google Business profiles. Look for an orthodontist who already has a strong, positive reputation.
Do any complaints repeat between patients? These can include comments on:
- Cleanliness
- Professionalism
- Wait times
- The staff
- Billing problems
Avoid practices with a long history of patient complaints.
Ask the orthodontist if they have before and after photos of their recent patients. Do you notice a change in their smiles? If not, continue your search.
Services
Look for an orthodontist that offers a range of professional services. Common orthodontic services include:
- Traditional metal braces
- Clear aligners (Invisalign)
- Self-ligating braces
- Ceramic braces
- Phase one treatment
Schedule a consultation appointment to determine what form of treatment you need. The orthodontist should customize your treatment based on your alignment issues. Customized treatment plans can lead to better results.
Orthodontists shouldn’t push one treatment over others. Instead, they should review the pros and cons of each procedure. With their help, you can make an informed decision based on your smile.
For example, perhaps you’re a business professional. You may want to avoid wearing metal braces and wires. Your dentist may recommend Invisalign.
Invisalign aligners are made from clear plastic. They’re discreet, allowing you to receive treatment without attracting notice.
Location
Determine where each orthodontic practice is located. Choose a practice near your home, school, work, or child’s school. Make sure it’s conveniently located.
You’ll need to visit the orthodontist multiple times while receiving treatment. This ensures they’re able to make adjustments. If a practice is hard to reach, remove it from your list of options.
Demeanor
Meet each orthodontist in person. Prepare a list of questions you want to ask. For example:
- Did you graduate from an accredited dental school?
- Where did you complete your residency?
- Do you only perform orthodontic treatment?
- What other services do you offer?
- What treatment plan do you recommend?
- What are the pros and cons of each option?
- Are you a member of the AAO?
- What are the practice’s office hours?
- Can you provide patient references?
- What insurance plans do you accept?
Pay attention to how the orthodontist speaks and acts around you and their staff. Are they kind, patient, and professional?
You’ll need to schedule multiple follow-up appointments while receiving treatment. Choose an orthodontist who can put you at ease. If they make you uncomfortable, you may avoid these appointments.
Your follow-up appointments give the orthodontist the chance to assess your teeth. They may make adjustments to your braces or treatment plan. This can ensure your treatment remains on schedule.
Pricing
Ask three local practices how much their orthodontic treatments cost. Compare prices to determine the local average. If one practice charges more than the rest, question why.
Determine if dental insurance will cover a portion of the cost. If not, ask the practice if they offer payment plans.
Find Your Sunset Valley Orthodontist Today
Searching for the best Sunset Valley orthodontist can feel daunting at first. Use our best orthodontist tips to streamline your search. You can save valuable time by trusting the leading Austin orthodontists at Sing Orthodontics.
We’re among the top 1% of clear aligner providers in the world. Trust our experienced team, personalized services, and affordable treatments. Contact us now for a free consultation or same-day treatment!
