Whether it’s your first time visiting an orthodontist’s office or you’ve just started visiting a new dental professional, you’ll likely be a bit unsure about the particulars of your treatment. Understanding as much as possible about what’s happening when it comes to your well-being is extremely important. It’s your smile that’s on the line, after all.
A good orthodontist will always keep you in the loop when it comes to your treatment; there should never be a time when you don’t know what’s going on. To help get the patient-orthodontist conversation started, we’ve come up with three of the most important questions to ask when you’re in the office. Let’s get started!
What Sets This Office Apart?
They’ve Gotta Know Their Stuff
Though all qualified orthodontists go through similar training while pursuing an advanced degree, not all practices are the same. Some specialize in dentofacial orthopedics, others in cosmetic dentistry, and still others in pediatric orthodontics. Depending on your specific situation, you may need to visit one of these specialists. You’ll normally be advised by your general dentist on where to go, but you can always make an appointment for a consultation yourself.
In the vast majority of cases, a general orthodontist is what you’ll be looking for. These kinds of practices provide treatments like traditional braces, Invisalign, and a host of others that can be used to provide stellar smiles for adults and children alike.
A Step Ahead
So if you’re in the market for an excellent general orthodontist, how can you tell who’s ahead of the pack? A good place to begin is with an office tour, which any good practice should be happy to provide. Does it feel clean and comfortable? While you’re at it, ask yourself whether you feel comfortable with the doctors and team. This is probably the most important thing you’ll do when deciding on a practice.
A good practice will know what sets itself apart. For example, at Webb Family Orthodontics, we focus on four primary traits that keep us a step ahead of the competition.
- Expert Training: I earned my DDS degree with honors from the University of Tennessee. After this, I received orthodontic training at Louisiana State University, where I graduated with recognition as the class’s most outstanding resident. This goes to show that I’m passionate about orthodontics; I strive to provide the best possible care for my patients day in and day out.
- Personalized Service: Simply put, we make all decisions regarding your treatment with you. You’ll be there every step of the way, never left wondering what’s going on. Your needs, concerns, and goals combined with our team’s expertise goes a long way.
- Payments That Work for You: A variety of treatment options combined with flexible payment options means we can work with any budget. We’ll take a look at your insurance coverage before sitting down with you to create a personalized payment plan that works with you, not against you.
- Convenient Locations and Flexible Appointment Scheduling: We’ll do everything we can to make sure you get the personalized treatment you deserve. You shouldn’t have to worry about scheduling or long drives on your road to a great smile.
What’s Abnormal?
After you’ve decided on a practice, it’s time to really understand your unique orthodontic situation. At Webb Family Orthodontics, some of the most common orthodontic problems we’re confronted with include crowded teeth, gapped teeth, malocclusions (over- and underbites), and tooth protrusion. You’ll probably have some idea about your situation (it’s your body, after all), but that’s only the beginning when it comes to understanding what’s going on with your mouth.
Your orthodontist should take x-rays, perform a thorough examination, and review medical records in order to get a comprehensive picture of the problem. At Webb Family Ortho, this happens during the complimentary initial consultation. Remember, a good orthodontist will share every relevant piece of information with you as it comes in. It’s impossible to receive great orthodontic treatment without laying down a strong foundation.
What Are My Options?
After you’ve received an accurate blueprint, it’s time to decide on the best path forward. In most cases, there are multiple options to treat any given problem. Of course, that varies depending on the severity of the situation. You’re probably aware of a few common treatment techniques, but you might not know what kinds of problems each can treat.
- Traditional Braces: The most common orthodontic treatment, traditional metal braces can treat a very wide variety of problems. From mild cases of crowded teeth to some severe malocclusions, braces are more effective than ever.
- Clear Ceramic Braces: These work just like metal braces, but are more discreet. Clear or tooth-colored ceramic brackets can be a great option for teens and adults concerned with the aesthetic of metal braces. It’s important to note that these brackets require extra attention be paid to oral health care, as they’re more brittle. These aren’t appropriate for many severe cases; your orthodontist can advise you further if this seems like a good choice for you.
- Invisalign Clear Aligners: An increasingly popular option for corrective orthodontic treatment is the Invisalign system. Removable and clear, these can be used to treat mild to moderate cases for which traditional braces used to be the only real option. The benefits are obvious, but they aren’t appropriate for all cases.
Starting the Process
None of the above questions can be asked if you don’t visit a potential practice to begin with. The selection process and orthodontic treatment both begin with the initial consultation. This quick, accurate meeting is the beginning of your relationship with the orthodontic practice; it’s your first step to the great smile you’ve always dreamed of. At Webb Family Ortho, this first consultation is completely free. Our team would love to meet you at one of our convenient locations around the greater Chattanooga area! Just visit this contact form to get the ball rolling. We hope to see you soon!