Selecting an Orthodontist
Good time to start looking for an orthodontist and selecting one is when there are no immediate problems to be addressed. Selecting a specialist is a stage process.
- At first, find an orthodontist who is conveniently located to your home or work, and if your insurance is accepted (if you have it);
- Second, verify an orthodontist qualifications, training, personal qualities, etc.
How to find an Orthodontist?
There are numerous ways to find an Orthodontist. Some of them are:
- Referral from your family dentist
Most of the times, if your general dentist recommended getting an orthodontic treatment, he or she will give you names of several practitioners to choose from. However, you should decide for yourself if you feel comfortable with that specialist treating you or your child. Consider going elsewhere, if the office stuff or the orthodontist does not clearly answer your questions, you do not feel welcome, or the office stuff is not friendly to your child. Keep in mind, on average patients have to visit an orthodontist on a regular basis for the next 2-3 years, once the treatment starts.
- Referral from your friends, your child’s friends or their parents
They are likely to recommend a specialist their child sees, and usually can honestly tell you what they like and dislike about their doctor. Be cautious, just because that doctor treats your friends, doesn’t necessarily means he or she possesses necessary skills and expertise to treat your problem.
- Directory listings
The easiest way to find an orthodontist who is located close to your home or office is through online or printed directory. If directory contains list of dentists in your area, you can easily find an orthodontist there, by locating an “ABO” or “AAO” next to the practitioner name. “ABO” means that orthodontist took an optional certification and is a member of American Board of Orthodontics; where is “AAO” states that an orthodontist is a member of The American Association of Orthodontists.
There are many skilled practitioners, who haven’t taken ABO certification or decided not to, however, it doesn’t mean that they have lesser knowledge or skills to treat you or your family member.