3 Questions To Ask When Trying to Find an Orthodontist

When a patient tries to find an orthodontist, specific questions can help narrow the search and match the patient to the right provider. Whether you are searching for a new orthodontist in the same town or there is an urgent need to find an orthodontist after a move to continue treatment, these questions help narrow your many choices.

Why patients should carefully screen to find an orthodontist

Though it may be tempting to perform a quick online search, click on the link for the first orthodontist that pops up in the results, and make an appointment that fits into a busy schedule, it is important to find an orthodontist who matches the needs of the family. Before committing to any provider, asking questions and interviewing providers to find a match is a good idea to help eliminate concerns and misunderstandings.

3 questions to ask to find the right orthodontist

Patients are certainly able to read online reviews, but this does not present the whole picture of what a dental practice may be able to offer. Patients can peruse practice websites, call the practice, and ask local friends and family with similar dental situations and concerns. For example, a parent with multiple children may be better served by an orthodontist who can accept the entire family into the practice. These questions can help narrow down the search.

1. Is the orthodontist accepting new patients?

Perhaps the most important question to ask when searching for a new orthodontist is whether they can accept new patients into the practice. This information is easy to obtain: Simply call the front desk and inquire. In addition, patients can ask other questions, such as whether the orthodontist treats children and adults, during this phone call.

2. Does the orthodontist treat children or patients with special needs?

Parents with school-aged or older children with special needs must be careful when screening for a new orthodontist. Some orthodontists are amenable to treating those with medical conditions, autism, physical handicaps, and sensory sensitivities, while others prefer to treat only adult patients. If a patient has a concern about whether a family member will be able to receive quality treatment at a specific practice, it is important to make these inquiries by phone or during the initial consultation.

3. Is there an available appointment when the patient needs one?

Patients who wish to make an appointment at a popular dental practice may have to wait weeks before the initial visit. If this patient has a cavity or another emergent situation, it may be advisable to consider whether this orthodontist will be able to meet this patient’s specific needs. Similarly, if a dental practice is a long drive away from the patient’s home, work, or school — even if it is a great practice — this distance needs to be factored into the family’s schedule.