The choices that Parents face.
As a parent, you find yourself wondering if your kid needs braces. Do they need to see an orthodontist or should you just take them to the regular dentist in your local neighbourhood? What’s the best first step to get a clear picture of what kind of braces they need?
Understanding the difference between an orthodontists and a dentist is important. First of all, an orthodontist IS a dentist first but has completed a specialty in dentistry. Second, you don’t need a referral to see an orthodontist. Many people think that you need to be referred by a dentist, and while that’s typically what happens, but that’s only because your family dentist is the logical front line dental caregiver in your health care team.
Another thing to note and be aware of is that Invisalign, which is a very popular brand name for clear aligners. Invisalign is not the same thing as braces. While Invisalign is offered at many local dental offices, you really should be inquiring about the underlying issues that are affecting you or your child and that can only be determined definitively by a certified orthodontist.
So, you need to get Braces? Who’s going to be on your team?
Getting braces means making an important commitment to the orthodontist of your choice. You will be seeing them over the years for adjustments to youraligners, braces or alignment system. and so you should choose your Ortho provider carefully to be sure that you are satisfied that you are getting both service and value.
The cheapest solutions is not always the best. Aside from learning more about the orthodontic treatment plans, frequency of visits or types of braces some useful questions that will give you a good idea of what the service provider is like to work with would include:
1) Are you a dedicated ortho provider? or are there more then one orthodontist working here? 2) What’s the best time for my child’s orthodontic treatment? 3) Consider asking for other parent’s opinions or read orthodontist reviewson the office you are considering.
These are just a few useful tips to help you choose the right orthodontist for you. At Walt Orthodontics, our approach is very much geared towards dedicated patient care and long lasting relationships. We’ve created an office environment that is indicative of that, and we look forward to meeting you and your family.
