Choosing an orthodontist for your child can be an exciting yet nervous time. It’s been shown that the earlier a child obtains proper orthodontic care, the better the results. For this reason, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends parents to have their children evaluated by an Orthodontist when they reach the age of seven. In many cases, having an early orthodontic intervention can avoid more costly and complicated treatments in the future.

The specialists at Orthodontist Select want to help you navigate the process of making the best decision for your child’s needs. We are here to offer you peace of mind in knowing that you’re making the best decision in choosing the right Orthodontist. Here are a few important factors to consider when you are starting your search:

Verify Credentials

It’s important for a parent to understand that there is a huge difference between a dentist and a properly trained, experienced orthodontist. It’s true an orthodontist starts out as a dentist. They must finish an additional two-three years of specialized training after completing dental school. This involves between 4,000 and 6,000 hours of clinical experience focusing solely on orthodontics. Don’t wait for your family or children’s dentist to refer you to an orthodontist.  Seek one out at age seven at the latest.  Only a licensed and qualified orthodontist, who has completed their specialized training at an accredited dental school, can evaluate the need for orthodontic care and provide the necessary orthodontic treatment.

And remember, an orthodontic specialist also has years of experience treating adults.  Some of the most complex and challenging patients fit this description.  Adult patients offer additional challenges that only a trained specialist can appreciate.  Whether you are choosing clear aligners like Invisalign or traditional braces, an orthodontic specialist is the right choice.  Ask your provider to show you pictures and results from other adult patients who have experienced their care.

Office Visit

Once you have decided on an orthodontist, schedule a personal visit to their office.  Make sure to ask for a tour of the facility to make sure it is modern and clean.  Inquire about staff.  Are they experienced?  Does the doctor do regular dental care like cleanings and fillings?  Only a true specialist focuses all their time and attention to orthodontics.

Check Online Reviews

It is recommended that parents and adults check online reviews for an orthodontist. Keep in mind that it is more common for a patient who is unhappy to post a review about a negative experience. Most satisfied patients don’t do this. If an orthodontist has many negative reviews over a long period, it could be a concern. A parent should look at the reviews and see if there are any common complaints. See if the complaints mostly focus on the insurance/payments or the doctor or staff. Does it seem as if patients are generally happy with the work done by the orthodontist but do not like their personality? These may seem like trivial complaints but keep in mind that you and your child could be working with this orthodontist for two years or longer.   It’s a big decision you are making.  The minor problems could become a major source of stress.

Learn About Payment Plans

Orthodontic care is an investment in your child’s future. By having a great smile, you are opening new opportunities for your child through better self-esteem and confidence.  And the long term health and comfort of your teeth are also at stake here.  Straight teeth that fit well together will last longer and serve you better than crooked, poorly fitting teeth.  If you seek the cheapest option, you might be receiving lower-quality care from a non-specialist.  Orthodontic specialists generally will offer you no interest payment plans.  Plus, if you have insurance, most offices will file the claim for you. They want to make your new smile a reality and are equipped with a professional team to make the process simple and easy for you.

Getting Started

It’s time to make the right call and seek an orthodontist that is truly a specialist in their field and has the best interest of you and your child in mind.  The independent doctors who have all been certified as specialists by Orthodontist Select are here to offer you high quality treatment for a lasting, beautiful smile.  They offer complimentary consultations with no referral required at any of their locations. Orthodontist Select certified practices treat families in the Frisco, McKinney, Allen and surrounding neighborhoods.

Price Family Orthodontics Frisco
Wise Orthodontics Frisco
RX Smile Frisco
Rendon Orthodontics Allen
Rendon Orthodonitcs Frisco
Stonebridge Orthodontics McKinney