Choosing the right orthodontist starts with finding an AAO specialist who has 2-3 years of extra training after dental school. Look for modern technology, good reviews, payment plans that fit your budget, and someone who makes you feel comfortable during your visit.
Finding the perfect orthodontist can feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know which one will give you or your child the best care? Don’t worry – this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From checking credentials to understanding costs, we’ll help you make the right choice for your smile.
What Makes a Good Orthodontist
Education and Training Come First
Orthodontists receive two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this education may call themselves orthodontists, and only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.
Think of it this way: all orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are orthodontists. This extra training makes a huge difference. Orthodontists undergo 2-3 additional years of residency training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on diagnosing and treating dental and facial irregularities.
Look for AAO Membership
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) sets the gold standard. The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) represents 18K+ orthodontists throughout the United States, Canada, and abroad. When an orthodontist belongs to the AAO, you know they meet strict requirements.
Members of the AAO are dentists who completed a 3-year residency program specializing in orthodontics after dental school. They are certified once they pass a licensing exam for each state.
Board Certification Adds Extra Confidence
ABO Board Certification is a voluntary credential that represents an orthodontist’s personal and public commitment to the standards of specialty practice and lifelong learning. While not required, board certification shows an orthodontist goes above and beyond basic requirements.
Questions to Ask Your Orthodontist
About Their Experience
Start with these key questions:
- Are you a member of the American Association of Orthodontists?
- Are you board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics?
- How many years have you been practicing orthodontics?
- How many cases like mine have you treated?
About Treatment Options
There are a lot of treatment options available, from clear aligners to modern braces. Each appliance has their advantages, but only an orthodontist has the specialized knowledge to identify and plan for all the variables in your mouth.
Ask about:
- What treatment options do you recommend for my case?
- How long will treatment take?
- What are the pros and cons of each option?
- Do you offer clear aligners or traditional braces?
About Their Practice
- What technology do you use?
- How often will I need appointments?
- What happens if I have an emergency?
- Can I see before and after photos of similar cases?
Technology That Makes a Difference
Digital Scanning vs. Old-School Impressions
Conventional casting is operator-dependent and presents several sensitive steps that can contribute to decrease the cast’s accuracy. In addition, it is a procedure that can lead to patient’s anxiety and discomfort. Intraoral scanning, on the other hand, incurs fewer repetitions, shorter chair time, greater patient comfort and has the very high digital precision.
Modern orthodontists use digital scanners instead of those messy impression molds. Instead of messy impressions, our scanner scans each tooth individually, and the layout of the gums and mouth, too. The whole process only takes less than twenty minutes and provides us with an extremely accurate 3D view of the mouth.
3D Treatment Planning
In orthodontic practice, digital scanners can be successfully used in efficient treatment planning, custom appliance fabrication, clear aligner technology and orthognathic surgical simulation. This technology helps your orthodontist plan your treatment more precisely.
Look for an orthodontist with a good balance of using proven methods while also looking forward to the newest technology. You don’t want anyone stuck in the Stone Age still doing mouth impressions on patients, of course, but also, not someone who is implementing every new thing right away.
Understanding Costs and Payment Options
What You Can Expect to Pay
In its 2018 annual survey, the American Dental Association listed the average price of comprehensive orthodontic treatment, which includes braces, as $5,000 to $6,000. However, costs vary based on:
- Type of treatment you need
- Length of treatment
- Where you live
- The orthodontist’s experience
Here’s a breakdown of average costs:
- Metal braces: $3,000 to $7,500
- Ceramic braces: $2,000 to $8,500
- Clear aligners: Similar to traditional braces
- Lingual braces: $5,000 to $13,000
Insurance Coverage
Out of pocket, patients with insurance paid an average of $3,407 for traditional metal braces, per reader reports from CostHelper. Most dental insurance plans cover orthodontics for children under 18.
Typically, insurance will cover a percentage of the treatment cost or provide a fixed benefit amount. Check with your insurance about:
- Percentage covered
- Lifetime maximums
- Age limits
- Whether your orthodontist is in-network
Payment Plans and Financing
Many orthodontic practices offer in-house payment plans, allowing patients to spread the cost of treatment over several months or years. These plans often come with low or no interest and can be tailored to fit your budget.
Don’t forget about these options:
- Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Third-party financing
- Upfront payment discounts
What to Look for During Your Visit
The Office Environment
Safety and cleanliness are essential for all dental and orthodontic care. The orthodontist’s office, instruments, waiting room, and exam room should all be clean and well maintained.
Pay attention to:
- Is the office clean and organized?
- Are staff members friendly and professional?
- Do they run on time for appointments?
- Is the waiting area comfortable?
Communication Style
During your initial consultation, assess the orthodontist’s communication style and whether they make you feel comfortable. An orthodontist who listens to your concerns, thoroughly explains the treatment plan and answers all your questions can make the entire treatment period more reassuring and pleasant.
A good orthodontist should:
- Listen to your concerns
- Explain things in simple terms
- Answer all your questions
- Make you feel comfortable
- Show genuine interest in your case
Red Flags to Avoid
Most orthodontists are trained in basic orthodontic care, but some may not have the expertise to treat complex cases using your preferred treatment modality. Hence, they may be hesitant to clearly share their treatment plans with you.
Watch out for orthodontists who:
- Can’t clearly explain your treatment plan
- Pressure you to start immediately
- Don’t answer your questions confidently
- Seem unclear about treatment options
- Make unrealistic promises about results
Location and Convenience Matter
Think About Your Schedule
Choose an orthodontic practice that is conveniently located and offers flexible hours to accommodate your schedule. Accessibility and convenience make it easier to attend appointments and follow through with treatment recommendations.
Consider:
- How far is the office from home or work?
- Do they offer evening or weekend appointments?
- Is parking available?
- Are they easy to reach by phone?
Remember, Orthodontic treatments usually require more office visits than other dental procedures, such as regular cleaning. You’ll be visiting regularly for 1-3 years, so convenience matters.
Special Considerations for Different Ages
Children and Teens
The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that your child get a check-up with an orthodontist at the first recognition of the existence of an orthodontic problem, but no later than age 7.
For kids, look for orthodontists who:
- Have experience working with children
- Create a fun, comfortable environment
- Are patient and gentle
- Offer early orthodontic care
Adults
If you are looking for an orthodontist for yourself, be sure that they have experience working with adults. An orthodontist who works mostly with children might not be a good fit for an adult.
Adult considerations include:
- Aesthetic treatment options
- Flexible appointment times
- Understanding of adult lifestyle needs
- Experience with adult orthodontics
Getting a Second Opinion
It’s smart to get quotes from several orthodontists since fees vary by private practice. Many orthodontists provide free consultations, which means there shouldn’t be a cost to getting a second opinion.
Getting multiple opinions helps you:
- Compare treatment plans
- Understand different approaches
- Find the best value
- Feel confident in your decision
Most orthodontists offer free consultations, so take advantage of this. Come prepared with questions and take notes to compare later.
Making Your Final Decision
Compare Your Options
Create a simple chart to compare orthodontists based on:
- Credentials and experience
- Treatment options offered
- Total cost and payment plans
- Office location and hours
- Your comfort level with the team
Trust Your Instincts
“We often hear that patients go to other consultations, but they say, ‘We picked you because my kid liked you.’ That’s pretty cool,” says Dr. Knapp.
Numbers and credentials matter, but so does how you feel. The right orthodontist should make you feel:
- Comfortable and welcomed
- Confident in their abilities
- Heard and understood
- Excited about your treatment
Ask About Treatment Plans
Before making your final choice, make sure you understand:
- Exactly what treatment you’ll receive
- How long it will take
- What results to expect
- What happens if treatment doesn’t go as planned
For more detailed information about what to expect during your consultation, check out our guide on what happens at an orthodontist consultation.
Understanding Modern Orthodontic Approaches
Airway-Focused Treatment
Some orthodontists now focus on more than just straight teeth. Your individualized treatment is designed by the doctor focusing on your airway, tooth alignment, and aesthetic goals – the three essential elements for achieving ideal oral health and function.
This approach looks at:
- How you breathe
- Jaw development
- Overall facial balance
- Long-term health benefits
If you’re interested in this comprehensive approach, learn more about airway-focused orthodontics.
Comparing Treatment Options
Understanding your options helps you ask better questions:
- Traditional braces: Most effective for complex cases
- Clear aligners: Nearly invisible, removable
- Ceramic braces: Less visible than metal
- Lingual braces: Hidden behind teeth
For a detailed comparison, read our article on clear aligners vs. braces.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right orthodontist is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your smile. Take your time, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The perfect orthodontist for you combines the right credentials, modern technology, fair pricing, and a communication style that makes you feel comfortable.
Remember, orthodontic treatment is not a quick fix. Working with the right orthodontist to determine a treatment plan can yield life-enhancing results. This investment in your smile is also an investment in your confidence, health, and future.
Ready to start your orthodontic journey? Book an appointment with a qualified orthodontist who can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Your perfect smile is waiting – and with the right orthodontist, you’ll love the journey as much as the destination.