Curiously your general dentist may have discovered the problem when you were seen at a regular appointment, or you may have noticed something different with the appearance of your teeth. “Where do I proceed from here?” Firstly, a dental specialist (orthodontist) is the logical choice. A referral is not necessary from your general dentist, but as a prospective patient, “Where do I look to find a good orthodontist?” Furthermore, “How does a prospective patient make a decision as to whether this office is the correct choice for them?”
There are a number of important questions that should be considered when searching for an orthodontist.
- A trustworthy relationship is necessary. Your own dentist may suggest a referral to an orthodontist; or perhaps a good friend, who was a former patient of the orthodontist, may have encouraged you to go their office.
- How long has the orthodontist been in practice and how long at their current location? Obviously experience does play a role in this factor. Orthodontics is a science and art profession and years of experience only enhances the orthodontist’s ability to diagnose and achieve a more stable final result. The patient and parent should have easy access to this location. As well, convenient hours are essential with everyone’s busy schedules.
- Does the office enjoy working with children or adults, or both? This can be important if there is a family requiring orthodontic treatment. Interestingly the diversity of patient ages within a practice further strengthens the patient-team relationship.
- Is there a pleasant patient experience with this team? The patient should feel there is warm stimulating environment from the time they arrive. A collaborative contribution from all staff members including the doctor ensures a long lasting patient staff relationship.
- Is there a long wait to schedule an appointment? Ideally a new appointment should be expedited in a timely manner. This helps to maintain the patient’s interest in the process. Furthermore it may indicate that the office systems are efficiently designed to provide a smooth transition in effecting the patient’s potential treatment.
- Are there a variety of braces to choose in their office? Generally these include clear braces whether fixed or removable (Invisalign), fixed metal braces that can be coloured with special elastics at routine appointments. Finally removable appliances or retainers may be considered for special problems.
- After hours care. Is there a plan in place? Although orthodontic therapy usually does not have similar problems as in general dentistry, nevertheless the patient will feel that this is a caring office if there is a plan in place to deal with after hour comfort calls.
- The latest dental technologies are certainly an important asset to the overall office impression, but as a prospective patient the other previously stated questions possibly have greater importance in making your final decision. The orthodontist may enjoy treating special cases. These may be cases that are of particular interest to the orthodontist. Perhaps this will further influence your final decision.
Orthodontics has the ability to change your life. These questions will help provide an excellent start on your way to achieving a great smile that will last for a lifetime.
