How can you select an orthodontic provider that’s right for you?
Orthodontic treatment can last from six months to two years, so it’s important to find a provider who you’re comfortable maintaining a relationship with for that period.
There are many factors to consider when searching for an orthodontist, but here are our top tips for selecting an orthodontic provider:
Do a search of your local area
Check their credentials
Safe treatment is of the utmost importance, so you should always check your orthodontic provider’s credentials prior to commencing treatment. If you’ve already got a provider in mind, you can check whether they’re an ASO member and specialist orthodontist using our Orthocheck tool. However, not all specialist orthodontists are ASO members so if your search returns a negative response you can double check their qualifications with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). All orthodontists will be registered with AHPRA under two categories, as a general dentist and as a dental specialist.
Ask your potential provider
You can ask your orthodontic provider directly what type of orthodontic training they have undertaken. Only specialist orthodontists have completed a general dental degree and more importantly three additional years of full-time university training in the field of orthodontics. Therefore, orthodontists are the true experts when it comes to diagnosing and treating teeth and jaw alignment issues. In contrast, some other orthodontic providers may have only completed training over a couple of days before they begin treating patients! It’s vitally important for you to be aware of and comfortable with their degree of knowledge and experience.
Don’t choose by price alone
Price should not be the only factor you consider when selecting an orthodontic provider. Costs can vary based on a number of factors (including operational costs and geographic location) and cut-price services may simply be an indication of inadequate training and poor product quality. If you’re concerned about the cost of orthodontic treatment, you can ask your orthodontist about options to affordably spread the costs out over your entire treatment period.
Don’t get hung up on a brand
Did you know that there are multiple brands who create clear aligners in Australia? While Invisalign® is one of the most recognisable brands, other options include Spark® and 3M Clarity. Your orthodontist will have considered a number of factors when deciding on which brand was best for their patients, so when searching for an orthodontic provider it is best to ask if they offer clear aligner treatment rather than asking about a specific brand name.
Remember, your smile is undoubtedly one of your most important features. Therefore, please safeguard the health of your teeth and gums when choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment. Do-It-Yourself (DIY) and mail-order orthodontics cannot provide you with the same level of care and protection as seeing a fully qualified specialist orthodontist for your orthodontic treatment.
Once you have identified your specialist and confirmed their qualifications, there are some practical questions it can be beneficial to ask.
- What treatment options are available?
- Will clear aligners suit me?
- How long will the treatment take?
- How much will treatment cost?
- What hours can I reach you?
- What follow-up care do you provide?
Once you’ve got the basic information, you’ll have all you need to take the next step towards your perfect smile.
Use our Finder Tool or our OrthoCheck Tool to help you make your decision, or learn more about your orthodontic treatment options.
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