Choosing the best orthodontist near your home or office can be an overwhelming task. Your teeth are a sensitive subject (no pun intended), and orthodontic treatment has the potential to be a long and costly process. You want to build trust early on with your orthodontist, as you are putting the fate of your smile in his or her hands!

To help you in the decision making process, here are several things to consider when searching for the best orthodontist near you who is right for your needs:

Experience and Qualifications of the Orthodontists

When researching orthodontists, look for what qualifications and experiences they have. Orthodontists require a certain level of higher education, including a bachelor’s degree, a doctor of dental surgery degree, and additional training in orthodontics. Orthodontists can also become Board Certified, which isn’t required but adds a higher level of training and experience. Before choosing an orthodontist, do your research online or by calling the office to determine if he or she has the proper experience and qualifications.

Invisalign vs Braces Cost

Cost is can be a barrier when choosing whether or not to visit an orthodontist. There are many options for braces today, and treatment is a significant financial investment. Ask an orthodontist for complete information on payment options and insurance coverage before starting treatment. Make sure you understand all of the fees associated with your treatment, as well as any payment plans that might be available. Every orthodontic case is different, so be sure to understand the full scope of your specific treatment plan.

Orthodontic Treatment Options

From metal braces to Invisalign, there are a wide range of orthodontic treatment options available today for straightening your teeth. Before making your first appointment, figure out what treatment options that orthodontic office offers to help you ask better questions about the options during your initial consultation.

Dentist Referrals

Ask family and friends in your community about their experiences with orthodontists in your city. Better yet, ask your dentist who he or she suggests. It’s important to work with an orthodontic practice that not only has the skills and experience necessary, but is also pleasant to work with and has nothing but good intentions. Your dentist should also have recommendations for you.

Location and Office Hours

While you shouldn’t choose an orthodontist solely based on the location of the office, this is an important factor as you’ll be going to many appointments over the course of your treatment plan. Additionally, you should always ask about office hours, to ensure that they are manageable with your school or work schedule.

Free Orthodontic Consultation

Most orthodontists offer free orthodontic consultations, in order to do an initial examination, take digital x-rays and photos and discuss treatment options to see if you are ready for orthodontic treatment. If you’re looking at an orthodontic office that doesn’t offer this initial free consultation, we’d recommend you go in a different direction. It’s important that you are fully informed about the process before making a final decision.

Office Environment of Best Orthodontist Near You

Orthodontic treatments can last anywhere from 1-3 years (or more), which is a significant amount of time to spend inside an office. Take advantage of that free consultation, and visit the offices you are considering. You want to feel relaxed and comfortable inside your orthodontist’s office.

We also suggest meeting the rest of the team — such as clinical assistants and scheduling coordinators — during your initial consultation, as you will be working with the staff a significant amount. Are they friendly and approachable? Can they confidently answer your questions? Take time to learn their qualifications as well, and make sure you feel supported and listened to in that office environment.

If you’ve been considering visiting an orthodontist to straighten your smile, and you’re curious about Gorman & Bunch Orthodontics, here are the next steps we suggest.

1. Meet our staff.
2. See our orthodontic treatments.
3. Peruse our payment options.
4. Check out our seven Central Indiana offices — including our newest in Fishers.
5. Read our blog for more info on Invisalign vs braces.
6. Schedule your free orthodontic consultation.

Before making a final decision on the best orthodontist near you, make sure you receive as much orthodontist information as possible. We look forward to hearing from you!