What You Need to Know When Evaluating Orthodontists in Philadelphia

You have put off getting braces for long enough and now you are finally ready to do something about it. But how do you find the right orthodontist?

Orthodontic treatment is a big investment of time and money so you want to do it right. Here is what you need to know when evaluating orthodontists in Philadelphia.

Recommendations Speak Volumes

You can learn a lot about a prospective orthodontist by what former and current patients say about them. Look for reviews and check out the websites of orthodontists in the Philadelphia area to get an initial feel for who is out there and what they offer.

Besides finding reviews online, ask your friends and family for recommendations and even ask orthodontic offices you are interested in, to provide names and numbers of patients you can talk to about their experiences.

Also make sure that any orthodontist you are interested in is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontics. This will give you extra confidence that they are up-to-date on all the newest technology and treatments.

The best orthodontists are up to date on all the cutting edge technology and latest trends in treatment. Their website is also a good place to find other referrals.

Compare Treatment Options and Costs

Today there so many different options available that it is important to choose an orthodontist that is skilled in all the options you are interested in. Invisalign aligners which are clear and plastic and removable, and lingual braces that are attached to the back of the teeth making them less visible are both specialized techniques that not all orthodontists are skilled in. Find out each prospective candidate’s specialties before making any final decisions.

Cost is also always an issue. The traditional metal braces tend to be the least expensive, while the others tend to be a little more expensive. Most Philadelphia orthodontists offer payment options to make the financials a little easier. Make sure you ask about payment options right from the beginning.

Pay Attention to Their Credentials & Experience

Make sure you ask about credentials, specialties and how many years of experience do they have. You want to choose a Philadelphia orthodontist that has been practicing their craft for years and stay up-to-date on the latest orthodontic technology.

Also, if you are interested in a more advanced orthodontic treatment like Invisalign or lingual braces, you need to check to see if the orthodontists you can considering are actually experienced enough in that mode of treatment. For example, are they an Elite Provider of Invisalign? Are they certified to provide lingual braces? How many patients have they successfully treated with this technology?

Do They Have Flexible Appointment Hours?

Not all orthodontists are as flexible as others so if you need flexible appointment schedules and early and late appointment times, you need to ask about it. Also find out their policy about lateness and switching appointment. How quickly can they see you if you have an emergency? You want a Philadelphia orthodontist who knows how valuable your time is.

A Convenient Location Is a Must

Orthodontic treatment typically takes years so a convenient location in Philadelphia is important. If it is difficult to get to, that just adds much unneeded stress into your life. Also ask about parking in the area as well.

Schedule Several Initial Consultations

You really can’t get a feel for a place and the people until you experience them yourself. That is why it so important to schedule initial consultations with a couple of orthodontists before making a final decision.

While there, you should pay attention to your surroundings. Is everything clean and sterile? Are they using the latest technology? Do they keep their patient’s comfort in mind at all times? Is the office comfortable and the staff friendly?

Also pay attention to how the orthodontist interacts with you. Is he very brusque, acting like he doesn’t have a lot of time to spend with you? Or does he really sit down and get to know you and what your needs are? If you have a fear of going to the dentist, make sure that the orthodontist you choose has a gentle chairside manner. Everyone has their own needs when it comes to which types of personalities they prefer to interact with so make sure you are going to be comfortable because you are going to be spending a lot of time with this doctor and his staff. Orthodontic treatment can least between 1 year to about 3 years.

It is important that you don’t rush into an important decision like this. Once you have gone on a few consultations, sit down with all the information and weigh your options. Like any big decision, you should look at it from all angles before making your final decision. Don’t be afraid to call back to different orthodontists with follow-up questions. They should want to talk with you and offer you advice. Your gut reaction can also be an important component as well. If at any time, you feel uncomfortable in the office or with what is being planned, then you should listen to your body. You don’t want to feel stressed and worried every time you step into the office. Check out the top orthodontists in Philadelphia.

If you are looking for the best Philadelphia orthodontists, consider Orthodontics Limited. They have convenient locations in Hatboro, Northeast Philadelphia and Center City Philadelphia. They are also a Diamond Provider of Invisalign Aligners and are skilled at lingual brace technology as well.

Drs. Pale, Gemmi and Middleberg offer all the latest technology in their offices and they always stay current on important trends in their field. The staff at Orthodontics Limited know what a big difference a straighter smile can make in a person’s life. Not only does it help restore self-confidence, it makes it easier to practice proper oral hygiene so you have a healthy, beautiful smile for years to come.

The staff at Orthodontics Limited also understand that each person’s situation is different so that is why they take the time to sit down with you and go over your options. They will create the best treatment plan for your particular needs.

To find out what type of orthodontic treatment is best for you, call Orthodontics Limited, one of the top Rittenhouse Square orthodontists, today to schedule your initial consultation. Why wait any longer to get the smile you have always dreamed about?