You’re never too old to visit an orthodontist in Sammamish. In fact, about 20% of people with braces today are adults. If you’re looking for an orthodontist, it helps to know what to look for, though.
Otherwise, you might find an orthodontist who lacks the experience and expertise you need.
Instead, keep these seven factors in mind when searching for a local orthodontist. With these tips, you can narrow down your options. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you’ve chosen an experienced professional.
Start your search for the best orthodontist in town with these tips today.
1. Experience and Expertise
There are now over 367,900 orthodontists and over 70,7000 practices throughout the US. To narrow down your options, choose an orthodontist with years of experience. You’ll feel more comfortable knowing your orthodontist has learned from the past.
First, research each orthodontist’s credentials. Make sure they’re qualified to provide the best possible care.
Otherwise, your orthodontist might fail to meet the standards of care. They could make a mistake as well.
Consider where your orthodontist went to school, as well as where they completed their training. Make sure they graduated from an accredited institution.
While you’ll want to find an orthodontist with years of experience, it’s important to make sure their training is up-to-date, too. Find someone who focuses on continuing their orthodontist education.
Ask about the orthodontic CE courses they prioritize.
These orthodontic courses help professionals remain up-to-date with the latest practices and procedures. They’ll make sure to provide their patients with the best services, too.
Finding someone with an updated orthodontist education isn’t enough, though. Ask each orthodontist on your list how long they’ve practiced. Consider how long they’ve owned their own practice, too.
A long-established business has likely outlasted competitors in the area. It’s also likely they’ve gained the respect of locals in Sammamish. Chances are, they’re doing something right!
A new orthodontic practice, on the other hand, might still have a few kinks they need to work out.
Ask each orthodontist on your list about their accomplishments over the years, too. For example, they might have won an award or accolade. Ask if they’re a member of a local or national organization, too.
These orthodontists strive to become leading members in their field.
Looking for a thought leader in digital orthodontics? Consider contacting Dr. Rooz Khosravi for your next appointment.
2. Services
Once you make sure each Sammamish orthodontist has experience and expertise, consider the services they offer.
Orthodontic technology has developed a lot over the years. Orthodontists can now offer a range of treatments, including:
- Braces
- Clear ceramic braces
- Clear Invisalign aligners
- PORTH Clear Aligners
- Lingual braces
Choose an orthodontist that focuses on modern orthodontics. They’ll utilize advanced technology for your treatment. Using the latest technology will ensure the best results.
You can achieve a happy, healthy smile with pain-free, modern orthodontic methods.
Consider finding an orthodontist who offers orthodontic training courses, too. Remember, an orthodontist who cares about continued education can benefit your experience. They’ll strive to offer top-notch services for their patients.
3. Location
It helps to find an orthodontist near your home, school, or work. Otherwise, you might find the drive to your appointments tedious. If there’s an emergency, you might struggle to reach the office in time.
Make sure each orthodontic practice on your list is in a safe location, too. If you’re not comfortable visiting that area, scratch it off your list.
Take the time to research each office’s hours. Do they offer flexible hours? Make sure you’re able to visit their office for an appointment based on your schedule.
Some practices offer emergency hours, too. You’ll have peace of mind knowing you can visit if there’s an emergency.
4. Office Environment
Consider scheduling a consultation with a few of the Sammamish orthodontists on your list. During your visit, consider the office environment.
Make note of the atmosphere. For example, is the waiting room clean and organized? Make note if the waiting room seems full.
It could indicate there’s not enough staff or that appointments were overbooked.
If you visit an exam room, make sure it’s clean as well. Make sure the instruments are wrapped and sterilized for each patient, too.
Consider the staff during your appointment as well. Does the staff seem friendly? Are they able to answer your questions?
If the staff looks miserable, consider it a red flag.
5. References and Reviews
You can learn more about each orthodontist by reading patient reviews. You can find reviews on the orthodontist’s website. Check their Better Business Bureau and Google My Business listings, too.
Read a handful of reviews from each source.
One or two negative comments are normal. If the bad outweighs the good, however, scratch that practice off your list.
6. A Soothing Demeanor
During your consultation appointment, pay attention to how the orthodontist talks. They should take the time to listen to your orthodontic concerns and goals. Then, they should make recommendations based on your distinct needs.
Are they friendly and easy to understand? If you’re not comfortable around that orthodontist, look elsewhere.
7. Cost
Ask each practice if they fall within your insurance network. If they don’t, that’s okay. Ask if they have a payment plan you can use instead.
As you visit each practice, ask about the cost of their services. Don’t choose the cheapest option. Chances are, you’ll get what you pay for.
Instead, use the rest of your notes to find an orthodontist you can count on.
Consider These Factors When Choosing a Sammamish Orthodontist
You don’t have to choose the first Sammamish orthodontist you find online. Instead, consider these factors when choosing a modern orthodontist. Using these tips can help you find someone you can trust.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing your orthodontist offers the best services in the area!
Want to discuss your orthodontic options? We’re here to help.
Contact Dr. Rooz Khosravi’s office today to get started.