No matter the stage you are in life, whether you are a middle schooler or a 9-5 career type, there is no better time than now to get started with your smile journey. Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your smile, and knowing who to partner with is almost as important as the investment itself! Actually choosing which orthodontist to work with, however, can feel like a tall task and you may find that you aren’t sure where to start!
When it comes to researching which orthodontist is the right match for you, we know that it can feel more than a little intimidating, but straightening your teeth should be an exciting decision, not a stressful one! That’s why our team at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics has created the ultimate guidebook that reveals which questions to ask when choosing an orthodontist.
“What are your other patients saying about your practice?”
Sometimes the simplest path to an answer is the most telling. Do you know anyone who has worked with the orthodontic team you are considering working with? Have you found any reviews online that support their team? If not, ask the doctor! They should be able to point you in the right direction so that you can get a peer-reviewed estimate of the quality of care you’ll be working with.
Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics is a huge supporter of our own transparent review system. Read what our patients have said about us by clicking here!
“Are you trained in the field of orthodontics?”
You may naturally assume that the person recommending your orthodontic treatment is a trained orthodontist, but this is not always the case. Because dentists and orthodontists undergo much of the same training at the beginning of their schooling, orthodontists are dentists at their cores, but dentists are not orthodontists. Just like with any area of medicine, you want your treating physician to be trained in the specific area that they are treating you for. Although dentists are great for advising on cavities and crowns, you want a trained orthodontist to take care of your braces.
It is always a good idea to make sure that your orthodontist is trained in the following areas:
- how to change the development of the dental alveolar complex and facial growth of younger patients
- the growth and maturation of the teeth and jaw
- biomechanical techniques to move teeth properly
- numerous case studies
- diagnostics
Before moving forward with a treatment plan, you need to know that your care will be overseen by someone who has had this extensive training and experience.
“Can you explain a little more about your background in orthodontics?”
Professional experience is important; understanding the specifics of that experience is vital. You’ll want to have several questions about qualifications lined up for the orthodontist at your first consultation so that you know if their level of care is right for you.
Be sure to ask them the following: Where did you go to school? How long have you been practicing? How do you keep up to date with the latest research and treatment options? A qualified individual should easily be able to answer these questions, and you should not be shy about looking deeper into their responses.
Another good place to look for this information is the orthodontist’s website. Do they have a section that highlights their training and education? Dr. Pedersen graduated magna cum laude from the University of Maryland Dental School before becoming the chief orthodontic resident in his residency program. Beyond that, he has years of experience working with all methods of orthodontic treatment. You can dig deeper into Dr. Pedersen’s qualifications here.
“What should I expect from treatment?”
Orthodontic treatment is a unique process intended to match the needs of every individual, so if you want to get an idea of what you should expect from your time spent with braces, you should ask your orthodontic specialist several questions. For example, how long do they expect treatment to last? How often are follow-up visits? Who will be overseeing your care?
“What are my treatment options?”
Knowing which treatment options the orthodontist specializes in is an extremely important factor when it comes to making a decision about which practice you want to work with. Getting braces is a lengthy process that requires years of work in some cases. Because of the duration of the process, you should carefully consider the methods that would be available to you at the orthodontic office in question before you make a commitment to work with them.
Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics offers a wide range of orthodontic treatment options, including:
Metal Braces
As the traditional option, metal braces are often the first that come to mind when considering orthodontic treatment. These braces work by tightening the wire attached to a bracket glued to each tooth. With gentle, continuous pressure, your teeth are aligned over a period of 12-36 months, depending on the severity of your case, your mouth’s response to treatment, and your desired outcome.
Clear Braces
Clear braces work the same way as metal braces. The difference is that clear braces use white, ceramic brackets that blend in with the color of your teeth and provide a less noticeable appearance.
Invisalign
This removable treatment option uses a series of clear trays that adjust your teeth without the use of wires or brackets. Because they are clear, this option allows you to straighten your teeth with a look that is almost invisible. By wearing these trays for 22 hours per day for 9-15 months, you’ll see results in no time.
“Do you offer a free consultation?”
Moving forward with an orthodontic treatment plan is an exciting step toward a brighter smile – but it is also an important financial decision. A free consultation takes the pressure off of your decision and allows you to focus on the health of your smile and the facts of the practice without distraction.
Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics offers a free consultation so we can put our best foot forward, giving you the opportunity to ask questions without the pressure of commitment.
“What are my payment options?”
Your smile is an investment, and you deserve to understand the financial commitment that comes with it. Be sure to ask questions about financing options, payment plans, and insurance policies before you move forward.
Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics accepts a wide range of insurance policies and offers flexible, zero-interest payment plans, and low monthly payments that can make your dream of a beautiful smile a concrete reality.
Trust the Experience and Reliability of Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics
Choosing the orthodontist that is right for you is one of the most important aspects of your care. Knowing which questions to ask your doctor during your consultation will help you understand the process you’re about to begin and decide whether or not the doctor is a good fit for you and your family.
With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Pedersen and the team at Andrew Pedersen Orthodontics have the background to support you through your smile success journey, no matter what it takes to get you to your end goal. Ready to speak with Dr. Pedersen today? Get scheduled for your free consultation here!