Finding an Orthodontist
If you think you may have an orthodontic problem that needs treatment (or your dentist has recommended you see one), your next question will likely be, 'How can I find orthodontists in my area?'
Choosing an orthodontist is an important task - you want to feel that you've found the right one for you.
While your dentist may say that they can refer you to an orthodontist, perhaps you're curious about whether there are others in your community. It might be worth your time to look beyond the first recommendation you receive, do some detective work and schedule a few consultations.
In this post, our orthodontists at My ORTHODONTIST share some tried-and-true tips that might help you in your search.
Ask Family, Friends & Coworkers
Orthodontists serve a great variety of people. You likely have coworkers, friends and/or family who are undergoing orthodontic treatment or have done so in the past. Ask them about the orthodontist they see and research their recommendations yourself (online reviews are great for this).
You might also contact your local, provincial or national orthodontists association or society for a list of certified practicing orthodontists in your area.
Search for Orthodontists in Your Area Online
'Good orthodontist near me' (or 'good orthodontist near BC) is a popular search term for a reason - the Internet can be a valuable source of information if you know where to look and how to put the data you find in context.
Using your favourite search engine, you will likely be able to find at least a few orthodontists in your area who are taking patients.
In the digital age, orthodontists should have an online presence and an up-to-date, well-maintained website that specifies whether they are currently accepting new patients.
This may also be a good time to check online reviews from past or current patients. While not all reviews may be accurate or in proportion (happy patients will sometimes procrastinate on writing a good review, while unhappy patients are motivated to share a bad experience), a pattern of positive or negative reviews may factor into whether you add a particular orthodontist to your shortlist.
Confirm That Your Orthodontist is Certified to Practice in Your Province
Whether your issue is simple or complex, orthodontists are able to correct dental and facial irregularities. We focus on diagnosing, preventing and correcting issues with misalignment of teeth and jaws.
An orthodontist must have completed a 4-year graduate program at an accredited dental school and complete a further 2-3 year residency program in Orthodontics. Only dentists with this advanced specialty education can present themselves as orthodontists, and any dentist you consider should be able to produce proof of education and certifications.
Schedule a Consultation
In some cases, you may be able to gather information about an orthodontist's philosophy and practice from their website. However, you might also consider scheduling a consultation to meet an orthodontist and their team in person. Here are a few questions to add to your list:
- What hours is your practice open?
- Are you able to book appointments around work or school schedules?
- Do you treat children, teens and adults?
- What will my orthodontic treatment cost?
- How will we know which Phase 2 treatment or post-treatment will be required (such as braces, clear aligners or a retainer)?
Ask About Treatment & Technology Options
Did you know there are different types of braces that your orthodontist may recommend based on your specific needs?
Invisalign clear aligners may also be an option.
You'll want to be sure you're receiving the treatment you need, at a cost you can manage.
Here are a few questions to ask about treatment and technology options:
- What will be the duration of my treatment and how does this compare when examining treatment options for my condition?
- How much will my treatment cost?
How to Assess Whether an Orthodontist is Right for You
We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, personalized orthodontic care for children, teens and adults in BC and surrounding communities.
When evaluating whether an orthodontist is the right fit for you, consider their reputation among the community, online and people you trust. Also, think about whether their hours, location, chairside manner and treatment and technology options suit your personal orthodontic treatment goals.