The Bureau of Labor Statistics recorded 5,040 orthodontists throughout the United States. However, this number does not include those working as self-employed orthodontist professionals. With so many orthodontist professionals on the market, how do you choose the best orthodontist for you?
There are some qualities and certifications you should look for when doing your research. Read on to the different ways you can shop for the best orthodontist for you.
A Provider in Your Network
One of the first things to look out for when choosing the best orthodontist for braces is insurance compatibility. Is the orthodontist an in-network provider with your insurance?
Choosing an orthodontist that accepts your insurance could mean paying little to nothing out of pocket for this procedure. Be sure to check with your insurance to get a list of the best orthodontist professionals in your network.
Word of Mouth Recommendation
Research shows that customers trust each other more than they trust the business that is trying to sell them something.
Try asking family or close friends for recommendations. You can trust that if they had a bad experience with their orthodontist, they’re likely to tell you the truth and steer you away in a different direction.
Has Excellent Online Reviews
Alternatively, you can take advantage of the information-sharing nature of the Internet. You can find reviews on crowd-sourced reviews platforms including Google, Yelp, and ZocDoc. Reviews left by former patients can give a good sense of the orthodontist before you even step into the office.
After you’ve decided on and received treatment by the best orthodontist, pay it forward and help those who come after you by leaving a review of your own.
Board Certified Professional
An orthodontist is a dental professional who completed an undergraduate degree, dental school, and a post-graduate dental program. However, not all orthodontists are board-certified–a certification by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO).
To pass the board, an orthodontist must meet requirements including education specificities, experience, and professional dental associations.
Varied Treatment Options
If you’re looking for the best orthodontist for kids’ braces, go for one with varied treatment options.
These options may include:
- metal braces
- Invisalign
- ceramic braces
- behind the teeth braces
An important question to ask is whether they provide subtle braces options?
Kids may want to transform their smile, but not with braces that are so obvious. Good subtle braces options for them may be ceramic braces, Invisalign, or behind-the-teeth braces.
Choose the Best Orthodontist for You
As a customer, you hold the decision power to choose the best orthodontist for you. If after a consultation meeting, you don’t feel that the dental professional is a right fit for your dental needs, continue to shop around.
The most important thing is that you receive your treatment from a dental professional you trust.
For more dental tips and advice, read up on the health section of our blog!