Tips on How to Find an Orthodontist
Tammy Davenport shares her tips on how to find an Orthodontist:
1. Make a list of the orthodontists that have been recommended to you. Write down the names and numbers, leaving a space between each name to make notes later.
2. When you have the time to make some phone calls, get your list and insurance card (if you are using insurance) and start by calling the first name on the list.
3. Jot down the receptionist’s name next to the doctor’s name in case you need to call back for any reason.
4. If insurance is involved, you will need to first find out if they accept your specific plan. Don’t assume that they accept it because your insurance booklet says they do.
5. Ask if they offer a wide variety of braces, including invisible braces or a “no braces” look. If a doctor offers a variety of braces, retainers and trendy accessories, he/she will also probably be using the latest equipment and techniques.
6. Check out their payment policy and find out if they offer payment plans with no interest. Most doctors do not charge interest, however, there are some that do.
7. Find out if they offer a free consultation. Many orthodontists do this now so that you can find out a lot more information without any additional cost.
8. Make sure that their office hours and work days will coincide with the days that you would be available for appointments.
9. After you have made the phone calls, look back over your list and read your notes.
10. If you feel comfortable with one or more of the offices that you phoned, call back to schedule a consultation. Remember to ask for the same person you spoke with earlier, so that you don’t have to repeat everything. At the consultation, you will meet the orthodontist and his/her staff. You will probably be given a tour of the office and answers to any questions that you might have. This should be the final factor in deciding which orthodontist to choose.