What Makes a Good Orthodontist
What Makes a Good Orthodontist
An orthodontist is a dental professional who specializes in re-aligning teeth, such as moving crowded teeth apart or moving teeth that have a gap between them closer together. Moving, or straightening, teeth is accomplished with braces or Invisalign. If you need the services of a good orthodontist, there are several factors to look at. Consider the following:
Proper Training
The difference between an orthodontist and a regular dental professional is that the orthodontist has spent an additional two to three years honing his or her craft. Many have also gone to extra workshops to learn techniques like Invisalign or information about new orthodontic procedures and technology.
Consultation
Many orthodontists offer a free consultation which consists of an examination and a conversation between you and the orthodontist. The orthodontist discusses the work that needs to be done as well as the cost of the care. The orthodontist should allow time to answer questions and provide explanations about why the recommended treatment is necessary.
Good References
A good orthodontist will be able to put you in touch with other clients so you can talk to them about his or her services. Another way to get good references is to talk to family members or friends who have used an orthodontist. Ask him about his or her strong and weak areas. Ask them if they would use the services of that practice again.
Manner
Many people are nervous about dental procedures. Furthermore, your relationship with your orthodontist will last several months if not years. You want to find a professional who treats you with kindness and respect and who puts you at ease. One characteristic you may want to look for is empathy, or the ability to understand how others are feeling. Compassion is also a useful quality. During your consultation, pay attention to how you feel about the orthodontist. Are you comfortable talking to him or her? Does he or she put you at ease? If not, you may want to work with someone else.
Efficiency
Occasionally, your orthodontist will run late due to an emergency or meet the needs of another patient. On the whole, though, your orthodontist should keep to his or her schedule and see you at the appointed time. This is a matter of convenience as well of respect. If your orthodontist is habitually late, you may want to find another professional. Another option is to ask for an appointment early in the day before the orthodontist has time to fall behind.
Open About Finances
Your orthodontist should give you an estimate of cost during your initial consultation. He or she should also keep you up to date if anything changes during treatment. Most dental insurances do not cover orthodontic services, but it’s worth asking your orthodontist if he or she accepts any type of insurance. If you can’t afford all of your care at once, the orthodontist may be able to arrange for you to spread out your treatments and pay a little at a time.
Uses the Latest Technology
Orthodontics is an ever evolving field. For instance, do you remember the “train tracks” braces of the 1980s? Today, braces can be designed to match the color of your enamel so that they are practically invisible. A good orthodontist never stops learning. Not only does he or she go through an intense residency, he or she also attends continuing education classes. This ensures that you receive the most up-to-date options and treatment. It is also a positive if the office uses up to date electronics such as paperless billing.
Good Communicator
Each profession has its own lingo. Your orthodontist should be able to communicate in a language that is clear and that makes sense to you. If you don’t understand what your orthodontist says, ask him or her to explain further. Keep asking until you are sure you understand. Again, communication skills are something you can assess during the initial consultation.
Works Well with Children
Adults aren’t the only people who seek help from orthodontists. Children, too, sometimes need their teeth straightened. If you are looking for an orthodontist for your son or daughter, have your child sit with you during at least part of the consultation. Afterward, ask him or her about his or her opinion of the orthodontist. It may be a good idea to sit in on the first treatment or two to observe how the orthodontist interacts with your child.
Schedule a Consultation With an Orthodontist
In Larkspur, Calif., you can learn more about orthodontic treatments that will help you find your smile. Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics has a team of orthodontists who include:
• Dr. Jasmine Gorton
• Dr. Bill Schmohl
At our orthodontic facility, we provide treatments to children, teenagers, and adults with these devices:
• Braces – WildSmiles, traditional or ceramic
• Aligners – made by Invisalign
• Retainers – to keep your teeth in place
• Damon Clear – self-ligating devices
Our patients are treated using the Wow Smiles system that creates a unique smile for your face. Call us today at 415-459-8006 to schedule your first appointment.
What Makes a Good Orthodontist
Gorton & Schmohl Orthodontics
900 Larkspur Landing Circle, Suite 200 Larkspur, California 94939
