How to Choose an Orthodontist in Milwaukee, WI

Choosing the right orthodontist can be a trying task, especially if you are also trying to find one for your child. You want to ensure they are seeing a professional with a proven, positive track record. You also want to make sure that they will provide a positive experience for both you and your child.

So, where do you start?

Here are some great tips on how to choose an orthodontist.

Closeup Braces on Teeth. Woman Smile with Orthodontic Braces.

How to Choose an Orthodontist

Choosing an orthodontist for yourself versus choosing an orthodontist for your child actually varies minimally. The decision, however, will have lasting effects for both of you, so you want to choose wisely and take your child’s personal considerations into account.

There are many possible routes to take in determining the best orthodontist, but here are a few easy steps to point you in the right direction and narrow down your results.

Compile a List

The first step is to compile a list of orthodontists in your area and even slightly outside your area. Most dentists have a list of recommended orthodontists. Ask your current dentist if they have such a list, and that will be a great starting point.

Another easy way to add to your list is to ask your peers. If you have some family or friends who recently had orthodontic work performed, ask them to whom they went.

A great way to begin investigating a good orthodontist for your child is to ask other parents if they have any recommendations. Typically, children begin to discover they need braces or major dental work around similar times, middle school, and high school. If your child has friends who have gotten braces, are currently wearing braces, or have undergone dental surgery, you might find someone those children like.

You also want to verify that all the options you have compiled are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.

Research and Narrow the List

Once you have a list of orthodontists you may like, the next step will be to narrow down your results. Ask yourself what type of needs you have with orthodontics. For instance:

  • Do you need a specialist of some sort?
  • Are you considering invisible liners?
  • Will you need a headgear?

All these questions may narrow down your search substantially.

Next, you’ll want to dive a little deeper into each office. Check out their most recent reviews, read over their websites, and call each office to make sure they are accepting patients.

Schedule a Consultation

Once you have a shortened list of top contenders for your orthodontist, the final step is to schedule a consultation.

This is the time where you will get to discover whether or not the orthodontist is the right match for you. The best thing to do to prepare is to have a list of questions to ask.

When writing out these questions, think about what is most important to you. Keep in mind that although this is a consultation, orthodontists are very busy, so you may have a limited timeframe in which to speak with them.

Now is not the time to ask them to break out their CV and review their alma mater. Consider situations that you may encounter that could make you feel uncomfortable or how accommodating they are to your schedule. How does the orthodontist respond?

This is a great time to bring your child with you if they need orthodontic treatment. While ensuring the orthodontist is a safe and trustworthy option for you and your child, your child will more than likely be more focused on the orthodontist’s personality. Try and determine their personality by allowing your child to ask them some questions and see how they handle a child’s interaction with them.

Remember: While you are looking for the stats and medical reputation, your child is looking for comfort.

Another big question you may want to ask is whether or not the orthodontist will be taking care of you each time or if they may be seeing a technician. You may want to familiarize yourself with the extra help within the office.

If you’re a working professional or have a busy lifestyle, you may want to ask if they ever offer extended hours that are not labeled on their website.

Schedule an Appointment With an Orthodontist

Major work on your teeth and your child’s teeth can be trying, but it will be well worth it in the end. Make sure you have a seasoned orthodontist who works well with you and your child’s needs, and who has a passion for oral care.

The dental professionals at Moles and Ferri have multiple convenient locations to suit your busy schedule and pride themselves on providing specialized orthodontic care. Be sure to add us to your list when deciding how to choose an orthodontist, or call us today to schedule a consultation.