BUZZ_December_Print

5 Tips For Selecting The Right Orthodontist
by Dr Martin Fine
When choosing an orthodontist, the most
important aspect is ensuring you and your
child feel comfortable.
It’s not surprising that many patients
simply “default” to the orthodontist
recommended by their general dentist
for their orthodontic care. While
there’s certainly nothing wrong with
this approach, most orthodontists
themselves actually recommend taking a
more active role in selecting the provider
to best meet your needs and treatment
goals.
Choosing the right orthodontist is a very
personal decision, but there are a number
of factors you’ll want to consider:
1. Ask Around -. Most likely you
already know several people who have
had braces so ask them about their
experience. Ask them about the whole
treatment from beginning to end. Ask
them about the braces themselves and
about the orthodontist, his/her staff
and overall office environment.
2. Ask the orthodontist for an initial
consultation - This experience gives you
and your child an opportunity to meet the
orthodontist and staff, learn about their
treatment philosophy and discuss your
treatment goals. During this visit, ask
about:
- Your ability to view before/after photos of
previous patients
- The flexibility of office hours to
accommodate your schedule.
3. Qualifications - Most importantly, be
sure the orthodontist you’re considering
is university trained and certified in
orthodontics. Often, general dentists
might take a few courses that allow
them to perform orthodontic treatment,
but they are NOT orthodontists and do
not have the same university training in
orthodontics as an orthodontist.
4. Comfortable - Remember, you are
entering into a relationship that could
last for years—you want to look forward
to the visits, and the beautiful end result!
Taking the time to carefully choose a
orthodontist that you feel comfortable
working with will greatly enhance
the success of your treatment and,
ultimately, your long-term satisfaction
with the results.
If you have any questions at all regarding
your or your child’s teeth please don’t
hesitate to get in touch.
Martin Fine
Fine Orthodontics
(02) 9369 3566
- The types of treatment systems available
- The doctor’s experience in treating your
specific issues
- Financing and payment options