It’s well known that having healthy, beautiful teeth motivates people to smile more. Smiling more, in turn, leads to feelings of happiness and confidence.
If you aim to rock a stunning, long-lasting smile, then a simple visit to your usual dentist might not cut the mustard. What you need is a specialized professional, such as an orthodontist.
But with so much choice out there, how do you pick the best one? Don’t worry: keep reading and you will discover five ways to find an orthodontist that can look after your smile for life.
1. Education and Experience Is Key
Let’s start with the basics. To become an orthodontist, it’s necessary to graduate from dental school and then go on to specialize in orthodontics for two or three further years.
Precisely because of this long and demanding academic career, you’d better check the credentials of the orthodontists that you are planning to contact.
Where and when did they study? How well did they graduate? Did they complete any further training? How much experience do they have in the specific treatment that you need? Are they certified by the American Association of Orthodontists?
Try to cover as many areas as possible, but if you can’t find an answer to some of your questions, then feel free to contact them directly.
2. Get in Touch and Ask Questions
A great idea is to put together a list of local orthodontists and start contacting them directly, either via email or phone.
Not only will this be a good opportunity for you to get any doubts cleared up and questions answered, but you will also get a feel for how they are.
Are you looking for someone professional but also very friendly and approachable? Or do you feel more comfortable in the hands of someone who’s a bit older, more traditional, but with plenty of experience?
3. Consider Your Budget
There’s no denying it: orthodontic treatments are pricey. You need to be fully confident in your choice as well as consider this an investment for your future.
While aspects such as education and attitude are crucial, another important thing to consider is how much you’re actually able (and willing) to spend.
Devote some time to doing a thorough research of a few orthodontists that have caught your eye, and check and compare their price lists. The differences might not be massive, but chances are you’ll find an orthodontist that offers better value for money.
4. Ask Around and Read Customer Reviews
The good, old friend’s recommendation works very well in this area, too. Think about it: do you know anyone who’s had any orthodontic treatments before, and was very pleased with the result? Brilliant, now pick up the phone and give them a ring.
Start gathering as many names of good orthodontists as possible, then go online and check if their website features any customer testimonials.
Do they seem genuine? Are any of those customers mentioning the treatment that you might be having? If so, what are they saying about it?
If you’re in the Austin area, visit moodyortho.com and you’ll find a lot of enthusiastic testimonials.
5. Go With Your Gut
OK, now that you’ve done your homework, contacted a few orthodontists, checked their fees, and vetted their credentials, you’re still feeling stuck.
It might be because all the doctors on your list have similar prices, offer the same treatments, and boast excellent academic backgrounds.
But if you think hard enough, you’ll surely realize that one of them stands out. Trust your instinct, and pick what your gut is telling you.
Ready to Find an Orthodontist That’s Right for You?
With our tips and ideas, you’ll find an orthodontist that’s perfect for you in no time.
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