In order to properly evaluate orthodontic treatment, these are some of the important points that you should consider when selecting an orthodontist:
- Is the orthodontist a university-trained specialist in orthodontics?
- Does the orthodontist use esthetic bonded brackets wherever possible?
- Does the orthodontist use functional appliances to correct maxillofacial skeletal growth problems?
- Does the orthodontist consider and recommend orthognathic surgical orthodontics when necessary to obtain ideal results?
- Has the orthodontist taken advanced courses in Invisalign treatment methods?
- Does the orthodontist use “space age wires” for improved comfort, performance, and speech?
- Does the orthodontist place and remove the braces, or is this performed by the assistants (which is illegal in the state of Florida)?
- Does the doctor use high-speed instruments to remove the cement or does the assistant remove the cement (which is also illegal in the state of Florida)?
- Does the orthodontist take progress x-rays to check the roots and make sure that the results are approaching ideal? The orthodontist should evaluate patients on a continual basis and reposition brackets as necessary at no additional fee.
- Is the orthodontist always present when treatment is rendered as required by law?
- Does the orthodontist go to multiple offices, leaving less time and accessibility for his Plantation patients?
- Does the quoted fee include all costs, including emergency visits, broken bracket fees, and retainers?
- Ask if the orthodontist offers flexible financing with no down payment as we do upon request.
- Are all of the orthodontic assistants certified?