It’s that time… time for us to look for an orthodontist for my younger son, who (despite being utterly handsome to me) is in need of some teeth-straightening so has asked several times for braces. He’s been asking for orthodontic work, and he’s 12, so his facial structure should be developed enough that starting to alter his bite hopefully doesn’t change it too much (he has a very symmetrical face and fine bite, so we don’t have to change anything about his facial structure or jawline). We started researching orthodontists in the Queens and Nassau area of New York, mostly based on feedback from happy patients we know (friends, family, neighbors with children who have had orthodontic work in the last year or so), and very much based on seeing good results on their own children’s smiles.
Selecting an orthodontist is an important decision that can significantly impact a child’s dental health and overall well-being (we’ve heard tales of orthodontists who do too much too fast and cause damage to the child’s palate/roof of the mouth, or other issues). We also want to prioritize him looking good facially whether smiling or not (we don’t just want straight teeth, but an overall attractive aesthetic that keeps his nice jawline and facial symmetry). But the power of a gorgeous smile with straight teeth can’t be understated… a beautiful smile can charm people from first meet, and is a sign of great health and appeal for so many. It’s an important investment in our own self-care and for our kids! Here are key factors that were suggested that we consider when making this choice in our search:
1. Qualifications and Experience: Look for a qualified orthodontist who has completed specialized training beyond dental school. Experience matters, so consider how long they have been practicing and their track record with similar cases.
2. Treatment Options: Orthodontics isn’t one-size-fits-all. Inquire about the treatment options offered by the orthodontist. Whether considering traditional braces, clear aligners like Invisalign, or other specialized treatments, ensure they have expertise in the method you prefer.
3. Technology and Facilities: A modern orthodontic practice utilizes advanced technology for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring progress. Check if the orthodontist’s office is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to provide efficient and effective care.
4. Patient Comfort and Care: Your comfort during treatment is crucial. Evaluate the atmosphere of the office and the demeanor of the staff. A friendly and supportive environment can make a significant difference in your child’s overall experience.
5. Cost and Insurance: Orthodontic treatment can be a significant investment (from what I’m hearing, we can expect to drop at least $3-5k, and that’s on the conservative end). Understand the total costs, what is covered and what isn’t, payment options available, and whether this provider even accepts your dental insurance. Some practices offer flexible financing plans to ease the financial burden while others expect complete payment from the start.
6. Reviews and Recommendations: You can read online reviews and seek recommendations from friends, family, or your own general dentist or pediatrician for providers of braces for your kid. You can ask to see the results of others (before and afters). Positive testimonials and word-of-mouth referrals can provide insights into the orthodontist’s reputation and patient satisfaction, and pay attention to the end results (such as if there as an overall change to the facial shape of the payment, and if the end results flatter the patient- the orthodontist should have an eye toward providing an overall beautiful result and not just straight teeth… a face can be made to look more attractive based on how the teeth line up).
Choosing an orthodontist is a personal decision that should be based on individual needs and preferences, and for us, we want a very qualified orthodontist with a great deal of experience in maintaining an overall symmetrical face and strong jawline while (slowly is fine) straightening his teeth to give him a 1000 watt smile. (our other son seemed to need braces, but overtime his teeth just straightened out on their own, so sometimes just waiting a bit is a good idea too- after all, teeth still shift over time, especially when the wisdom teeth grow in at about 18 and need to be removed right away or some teens may end up needing braces again). We are considering these factors and conducting thorough research, taking our time, and hopefully we have great updates for you as we start down the path of trying to give our son the best orthodontic care possible.