Orthodontic treatment is a long-term investment. If you’re thinking of getting an orthodontic treatment due to health or cosmetic reasons, you must be aware of a lot of things before you commit to one.
The health of your heart and your chances of dementia are directly related to what happens inside your mouth
You put your overall health at stake when you decide to get any oral treatments. It is advisable to learn as much as you can before choosing an orthodontist because you would not regret an informed decision the way you would regret a whimsical one.
Since it’s a matter of absolute importance, you should find an orthodontist that is ideal for you, a doctor that has the right specialization, staff and hours that work for you. Here is a guideline about things to consider when finding an orthodontist.
The doctor
As obvious as it looks, you need to look into the doctor’s career before you get treated by them. When you ask for friends and family for a trusted recommendation make sure it’s not for someone who only gets the cleaning done. If you find someone you like then look them up on the internet and read testimonials about them. Not every review on the internet can be trusted, try to look for the ones that speak of personal stories.
The doctor’s qualifications and previous records mean a lot. There are times when a dentist also provides orthodontic treatments. Both of these doctors spend the standard eight years in med school. However, an orthodontist spends 2-3 years longer in residency before they begin to practice. Look for any probation or negligence related to the orthodontist you have chosen. Check their work hours and their proximity to your residence. Look for the loupes on the doctor to see how professional he is.
Doctors like Dr. Larrabee are a gem. His pristine record and brilliant repertoire make him an excellent choice when it comes to an orthodontist in Arizona.
The staff and setting
Whether your doctor provides a free consultation or not, the first impression is the last impression. Decide how comfortable you are with the doctor and his team. Your level of comfort with the team is essential for you since they will be present throughout your treatment and the follow-up visits. Observe the environment and see if you like the place and are comfortable with how clean it is including the waiting area.
Ask the team and doctors about the details. Read about your treatment on the internet so you can make informed queries. If the doctor and his team reassure you, you’re halfway through the decision. Remember to look at before and after pictures of past patients. Also, read the testimonials about patient satisfaction. These things are often put up on walls of the clinic and the website. Ask for them from the reception if you don’t find them.
The cost
Orthodontic treatments are a serious investment. A majority of the practising doctors understand this and provide you with an array of payment solutions. It’s your responsibility to request a complete quote that includes details, fees and post-treatment services such as retention. Each case carries, and so does its nature of the payment. Read things through and make an informed decision. Take your time to get comfortable with the doctor and the payment options.
In the end, believe what your intuition says. Nothing can guide you better than yourself. There is a possibility that a highly qualified orthodontist may make you feel uncomfortable. Ask yourself about everything and then choose the right orthodontist.