There are now over 91,100 orthodontists in the US. If you’re looking for a practice in Frankfort and Louisville, KY, you need to do your due diligence. Research will ensure you find a local orthodontist who can offer the highest standard of care.
Here are seven factors to consider when searching for orthodontic services. Using these tips, you can find a qualified professional who offers the services you need. They’ll straighten your smile, giving your self-confidence a boost in the process.
Start searching with these tips today.
1. Credentials
You can begin building a list of local orthodontic practices by visiting the American Board of Orthodontists website. Make sure each orthodontist you consider is certified by the board. Confirm they have an active dental license, too.
If the orthodontist refuses to show you proof of both licenses, remove them from your list of options. Finding an orthodontist with the right credentials can help you feel more confident in their abilities to offer the highest standard of care.
2. Experience
Use Healthgrades.com to find out how long each orthodontist has practiced in Kentucky. Consider how long they’ve owned their own orthodontic clinic, too. You’re less likely to experience problems at an already-established practice.
A practice that’s been open for a few years has fine-tuned its business operations. They likely offer a higher standard of customer service and patient care. You’re more likely to find reviews for these practices and orthodontists, too.
An orthodontist with prior experience in the area will have an easier time making recommendations based on your dental care needs.
3. Insurance
If you have orthodontic insurance, determine which practices on your list fall within your network. If you decide to choose an orthodontist who isn’t in your network, coverage won’t come into effect. You’ll have to pay the full price for any orthodontic services you choose.
Visit your insurance company’s website to learn which local practices fall within your network. The website should have a “find a provider” option. Otherwise, ask each practice about the insurance they accept during your in-person consultation appointment.
Plan to meet two or three orthodontists in person. Have a list of questions you want to ask about their experience, orthodontic services, and pricing.
Visiting more than one practice can help you compare the costs for each orthodontic service you’re considering. For example, Invisalign treatment can cost between $3,000 and $5,000. Traditional metal bracket braces can cost between $2,000 and $6,000.
Costs vary based on:
- How much insurance will cover
- Your location/average prices in the area
- Your oral health needs/how much work needs to be done
- The dentists’ time for labor
Comparing costs can help you determine the average in your area.
4. Location
Note where each orthodontic practice is located. Orthodontic care isn’t a one-time thing. You’ll need to visit your orthodontist regularly throughout the duration of your treatment plan.
For example, they might need to adjust your metal braces or provide you with new Invisalign aligners.
Look for practices that are located within 30 minutes of your home or work.
5. Services
Don’t assume that the orthodontists in your area offer identical services. Some practices only offer orthodontic care with traditional metal braces. However, you or your child might prefer an alternative treatment option.
For example, Invisalign clear aligners are ideal for patients who prefer a more discrete treatment option. The aligners are custom-made using clear plastic. They’re not as obvious as metal braces.
Clear aligners are also more comfortable.
However, treatment with aligners isn’t ideal for younger patients. While you can’t remove metal braces alone, you can remove your aligners for meals or to brush your teeth. Younger patients tend to lose or forget to wear their aligners, causing delays with their treatment.
When meeting with local orthodontists, allow them to assess your orthodontic needs. Then, ask them which orthodontic treatments they recommend. They shouldn’t pressure you to choose the most costly option available.
Instead, they should help you review the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice.
6. Reputation
Before choosing a local orthodontist, talk to friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers in the area. Ask if they’ve sought orthodontic treatment in the past year. If they have, ask about the quality of care they received at the clinic.
Speaking with people in your inner circle can help you find a reputable orthodontist in the area. You can also determine which orthodontic clinics to avoid based on their warnings.
Ask each friend you speak with about the orthodontic treatment they elected to receive. Learning about their experience will help you manage your expectations. You can feel more confident choosing a treatment option that aligns with your preferences, too.
If you can’t gather recommendations from friends, look for patient reviews online. Check Google, Facebook, Healthgrades.com, or Yelo. Find an orthodontic practice that has a glowing reputation.
Reading online patient reviews will help you get a feel for each orthodontist’s strengths and weaknesses. It can help you learn more about the practice as a business, too. For example, perhaps patients complained about long wait times or the unfriendly staff.
Look for practices that already have four- or five-star ratings. If they’re a new business and lack reviews, keep searching. Remember to find an experienced orthodontist and established practice.
7. Personality
Meeting each orthodontist in person will give you the chance to determine if you’re comfortable around them. Consider how they treated you during the consultation appointment. Were they patient when listening to your concerns, or did they interrupt you a few times?
If you’re uncomfortable around the orthodontists you meet, keep searching. Remember, you’ll visit them a few times during your treatment plan.
Simplify Choosing a Local Orthodontist in KY
Don’t choose an inexperienced local orthodontist without using these tips. Instead, do your due diligence. Find an experienced, qualified orthodontist who can provide the level of dental care you need.
With their help, you can straighten your smile, improving your appearance and confidence in the process.
Ready to begin orthodontic treatment with a team you can trust? We’re here for you.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment.