Do your teeth look a little crooked? Maybe there are gaps between your teeth. Consider visiting the best orthodontist in Conway for treatment.
Orthodontic care isn’t only for children. In fact, 20% of people with braces today are adults.
Not sure how to find an orthodontist in Little Rock and Conway, AR? Read on for the orthodontist selection tips you need for an easy search!
1. Gather Recommendations
Don’t waste time vetting every orthodontist in Little Rock and Conway. After all, there are over 15,800 orthodontists in the US. Instead of vetting each one, ask for orthodontist advice in Little Rock.
Talk to friends, neighbors, family members, and coworkers. Ask if they can recommend a local orthodontist. Learn more about their experience as a patient.
For example, you can ask:
- Where is the practice located?
- How long has the orthodontist practiced?
- Are they kind and knowledgeable?
- What are their credentials?
- What services do they offer?
- Would you choose them again?
- Did you have any problems as a patient?
Their first-hand accounts can provide information that’s not available online. If the patient had a negative experience, learn more. For example, maybe they struggled to schedule an appointment.
While undergoing orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to schedule multiple appointments. If you choose metal braces, the orthodontist may need to tighten them. For Invisalign treatment, you’ll receive new aligners every few weeks.
You can also talk to your general dentist. They can provide a professional referral.
If you can’t gather information from friends and family, start your search online. Visit Healthgrades.com to build a list of local orthodontists.
Read online patient reviews for each practice on your list. Choose a practice with a four-star rating or higher. You’ll feel more confident in their ability to offer a high standard of care.
2. Research Credentials
Don’t rush choosing orthodontic care before reviewing the orthodontist’s credentials. First, determine where they completed their education and training.
Orthodontists are dentists who have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DDM). They should have completed a competitive residency in a CODA-accredited orthodontic program. This program can last for two to three years.
Confirm that they have training specifically in dentofacial orthopedics or orthodontics. Check for proof that they have board certification from the American Board of Orthodontists. Determine if they’re a member of the American Association of Orthodontists.
Are you interested in Invisalign treatment? Make sure they have Invisalign certification.
It’s not enough for an orthodontist to have these credentials. The best orthodontist in Conway should continue their education over time.
These orthodontists keep up with new techniques and technologies. They’re likely to meet a higher standard of care.
Determine how long each orthodontist on your list has practiced. Consider when they opened their own practice in Conway. An established practice won’t close its doors overnight.
An orthodontist with years of experience treating patients will recognize the orthodontic issues you’re facing. They’ll leverage their experience to create a personalized treatment plan.
The orthodontist shouldn’t use a cookie-cutter approach for each patient. Instead, they should make recommendations based on your needs and concerns.
For example, Invisalign aligners are made of clear plastic. They’re discrete, making them ideal for adults. However, they’re not always ideal for patients with more extensive orthodontic issues.
The orthodontist should consider the severity of your alignment problems. They should recommend a treatment option that will ensure the best outcome.
3. Schedule Multiple Consultations
Schedule consultation appointments with three local orthodontists. Different practices may offer different treatment options. This will also allow you to compare the cost of services between practices.
Before these appointments, prepare a list of questions you want to ask. For example:
- What are your credentials?
- How long have you practiced?
- Do you specialize in treating adults or children?
- What services do you offer?
- What treatment option would you recommend?
- Can you walk me through this treatment option?
If the orthodontist struggles to explain their reasoning when recommending a treatment option, keep searching. Look for a knowledgeable orthodontist.
4. Consider Their Location
Determine where each orthodontic practice is located. Look for practices near your home, school, or work.
Remember, you’ll need to schedule multiple appointments while receiving treatment. Ask about the practice’s office hours. Make sure they suit your schedule.
5. Review Their Services
During your consultation appointment, determine what orthodontic services each practice offers. These can include:
- Traditional metal braces
- Lingual braces
- Invisalign/clear aligners
- Ceramic braces
Have the orthodontist weigh the pros and cons of each one. For example, perhaps you’re worried about the treatment’s duration.
The average length of Invisalign treatment is 22.8 months. Your treatment may be longer or shorter. It can vary based on the severity of your orthodontic issues.
The orthodontist shouldn’t push you in a specific direction. Instead, they should help you make an informed choice based on your concerns. If discretion and comfort are your priorities, Invisalign is an ideal choice.
6. Evaluate Patient Experience
Consider how the orthodontist treats and speaks to you during your consultation appointment. Do they seem to offer personalized care? Consider if they took the time to listen to your concerns.
You shouldn’t feel like a number. Instead, look for an orthodontist who cares about their patients.
Before leaving the clinic, consider the office environment. Is it inviting, clean, and organized? Consider if the staff is friendly and patient.
These are all factors that can affect your experience as a patient. Choose an orthodontic team you feel comfortable around.
7. Check With Your Insurance
Request prices from three local practices. Determine how they set their prices.
Determine if your insurance provider will cover a portion of the cost. If not, ask the practice if they offer financing options.
Find an Orthodontist in Little Rock and Conway, AR
Make an informed choice. Find an orthodontist in Little Rock and Conway, AR you’re comfortable around. With these tips, you can find a qualified professional who can improve your smile.
Look no further than Wardlaw Orthodontics. We provide unsurpassed patient care. We’ll ensure you have a beautiful smile you’re proud of.
We’re the largest provider of Invisalign in Central Arkansas and in the top 1% of providers in the US. Trust our experience, qualified team. Contact us now to schedule your appointment.