If you are looking for a Philadelphia orthodontist, although there are a lot of options out there, finding the Philadelphia orthodontist that is the right fit for you can be a challenge.
Luckily with the right prep and planning and asking the right questions you will be able to feel confident in your choice.
Here are the 5 top questions to ask when choosing a Philadelphia orthodontist:
1. What Do the Reviews Say?
Even before you start scheduling consultations with prospective candidates, look for reviews and check out the websites of orthodontists in the Philadelphia area to get an initial feel for who is out there and what they offer.
Also make sure that any orthodontist you are interested in is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontics. This will give you extra confidence that they are up-to-date on all the newest technology and treatments. The best Philadelphia orthodontists are up to date on all the cutting edge technology and latest trends in treatment. Their website is also a good place to find other referrals.
2. What Are Their Credentials & Experience?
Most of the time, we can’t really get a good feel for a new doctor or dentist until we go in for a visit so it is important to set up a consultation with at least a few orthodontists. While it can be time-consuming, it can really help you feel more confident about your final choice.
Once you schedule consultations, make sure you ask about credentials, specialties and how many years of experience do they have. You want to choose a Philadelphia orthodontist that has been practicing their craft for years and stay up-to-date on the latest orthodontic technology.
3. What Are Their Office Hours and Appointment Policy?
Not all orthodontists are as flexible as others so if you need flexible appointment schedules and early and late appointment times, you need to ask about it. Also find out their policy about lateness and switching appointment. Also ask about their policy for emergencies. You want a Philadelphia orthodontist who knows how valuable your time is.
4. What Are the Treatment Options and Costs?
Today there so many different options available that it is important to choose an orthodontist that is skilled in all the options you are interested in. Invisalign aligners which are clear and plastic and removable and lingual braces that are attached to the back of the teeth making them less visible are both specialized techniques that not all orthodontists are skilled in. Find out each prospective candidate’s specialties before making any final decisions.
Cost is also always an issue. The traditional metal braces tend to be the least expensive, but the others tend to be a little more expensive. Most Philadelphia orthodontists offer payment options to make the financials a little easier. Make sure you ask about payment options right from the beginning.
5. How Easy Are They to Get to?
Orthodontic treatment typically takes years so a convenient location in Philadelphia is important. If it is difficult to get to, that just adds much unneeded stress into your life. Also ask about parking in the area as well.
Questions of Observation
There are some questions best asked during your initial consultation. You really can’t get a feel for a place and the people until you experience them yourself.
While there, you should pay attention to your surroundings. Is everything clean and sterile? Are they using the latest technology? Do they keep their patient’s comfort in mind at all times? Is the office comfortable and the staff friendly? Also pay attention to how the orthodontist interacts with you. Is he very brusque, acting like he doesn’t have a lot of time to spend with you? Or does he really sit down and get to know you and what your needs are? If you have a fear of going to the dentist, make sure that the orthodontist you choose has a gentle chairside manner. Everyone has their own needs when it comes to which types of personalities they prefer to interact with so make sure you are going to be comfortable because you are going to be spending a lot of time with this doctor and his staff. Orthodontic treatment can least between 1 year to about 3 years.
If you think you are interested in Invisalign in particular, make sure you find an orthodontist who specializes in this sort of treatment.
Once you pick an orthodontist, you will be given a treatment plan based on your needs and any cost considerations. Some options are a little more expensive than other so weigh the pros and cons for each. The orthodontist can give you all the pertinent information you need to make a decision. If your dental insurance do not cover braces in its entirety, then you have other payment options like a healthcare credit card like CareCredit and a dental savings plan.
While the financial cost can be an especially daunting aspect of getting braces, don’t let that be the only barrier to a healthier smile. Straighter teeth also improve your overall oral health so it is crucial that you don’t just chalk up crooked teeth to an aesthetic issue that can be ignored. Talk with different orthodontists to find the most affordable path for you to take.
It is important that you don’t rush into an important decision like this. Once you have gone on a few consultations, sit down with all the information and weigh your options. Like any big decision, you should look at it from all angles before making your final decision. Don’t be afraid to call back to different orthodontists with follow-up questions. They should want to talk with you and offer you advice. Your gut reaction can also be an important component as well. If at any time, you feel uncomfortable in the office or with what is being planned, then you should listen to your body. You don’t want to feel stressed and worried every time you step into the office.
Check out the top orthodontists in Philadelphia. Give Orthodontics Limited a call today.
