How to Find an Orthodontist Near Me?

Finding an orthodontist can be difficult with so many in-network and out-of-network providers available in your area. Just as with any medical practitioner, you’ll want to make sure that they’re experienced and can provide personalized care for your condition. There are a couple of considerations to have in mind when searching for an orthodontist near me, and we’re going to highlight some of them. 

As with any medical condition or treatment, it’s important for you to find the right doctor for you. And no matter who you choose, you should make sure that you understand what is going to happen and why. Just because someone is an orthodontist doesn’t mean they’re right for your particular situation.

Insurance Coverage

If you’re a patient, insurance coverage is often a bit of a mystery. As you’ve probably heard, there are two types of insurance providers: Preferred Providers and Network Providers. 

• Preferred Providers: These are your traditional insurance companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield or Aetna that are typically the ones you choose for your healthcare coverage and often require that you use their network providers.  

• Network Providers: These are like Preferred Providers, except they are more flexible around where you get your healthcare. Dentists and Orthodontists that participate in Dental Discount Plan’s insurance network are designated as Network Providers. Dentists in Network Provider networks typically also accept insurance issued by your state’s Medicaid program (although not all do).

If you’re not sure if a provider accepts your insurance, call them and ask! Remember: just because some providers don’t accept your insurance doesn’t mean they can’t help you.  If your dental insurance provider has decided not to cover OTC Orthodontics, you can still get Orthodontic Care for less money by switching your preferred provider to a Network Provider.

Your Goals

First and foremost, you want to be happy with your teeth. It’s a simple concept and one that applies to any treatment, orthodontics included. Your orthodontist should listen to you and understand your needs with the treatment.  They will also be upfront about what to expect from the treatment so that you’re not having unrealistic expectations on what is achievable.

Office Location

When visiting your orthodontist, you might have to travel a while to get to his or her office. It can be inconvenient, but the location shouldn’t matter if he or she is worth it. An orthodontist’s office should be easy to find, in a convenient location, and easily accessible. That is why it’s always recommended that you’re narrowing the search to the providers in your locality.

Selection Criteria 

You should find out as much as you can about your orthodontist. There are certain questions that you need to ask before deciding on an orthodontist. This includes things such as education, board certification, and training. You should also find out what he or she has done in the past for other patients. 

The best thing you can do is get as much information in advance as possible. Besides, you want to be sure that your orthodontist has the treatment options that fit your needs. No one wants to feel like they are being rushed into a treatment plan they’re not comfortable with. Your treatment options should include basic as well as more advanced orthodontic treatments. 

Plastic Vs. Metal Braces

If you’re not crazy about the idea of having braces, then maybe an alternative such as clear or plastic braces would be more suitable for you. Plastic braces are usually more affordable, they look better than regular metal braces, and they’re more comfortable. 

Metal braces are more expensive, but the results are usually well worth it. Metal braces can be customized to fit your teeth, and they’re easy to clean. The best thing about metal braces is that they don’t require much maintenance. A good orthodontist will recommend the best option depending on your needs and comfort levels.

Schedule an Initial Consultation

The orthodontist might be experienced, but you find it hard to get along. That is why you should schedule an initial consultation to establish if there is chemistry between you and the doctor. If you find yourself in an office that looks nice and upscale, but the staff is unfriendly, and the equipment isn’t up to date, you have a problem. It will be time to look for another practitioner.

To sum it up, Not all top orthodontists are created equal. You want to do your homework to get the right provider that will meet all your treatment needs.