Whether you’re an adult who has always wanted to straighten their teeth, have a child who is looking to visit the orthodontist for the first time, or are currently undergoing orthodontic treatment and have relocated, choosing an orthodontist involves more than just selecting the first name you find on the internet.
The truth is a relationship with an orthodontist can last years, and the upshot of this relationship should be results that last a lifetime. Here are the top tips for choosing an orthodontist.
Reputation
Reputation is one of the most important factors you should seek out in an orthodontist, as it allows you to understand how they are regarded by patients and the industry. An orthodontist who is referred to you by friends, family or your dentist is likely to be known for the results they achieve and the way they interact with their patients.
Then cross-check reviews and testimonials about your proposed orthodontist to gain an insight into the experience others have encountered.
Credentials
Orthodontics is a highly specialised field of dentistry, requiring an additional three years of training on top of a general dentistry degree. It’s worth ensuring your orthodontist is correctly accredited with a specialist orthodontic degree. Other credentials to look for include the highly-regarded industry accreditation that is board certification.
An orthodontist who has achieved board certification is not only a registered specialist orthodontist, but has also treated cases assessed by the Australasian Orthodontic Board. At Norwest Orthodontics, Dr Shimanto Purkayastha is the only Australian Orthodontic Board Certified Specialist Orthodontist in the Norwest area.
Previous results
A good orthodontist will likely have a portfolio of results. Some will have before or after images on their website, while others will have that information available at their clinic. It’s worth taking the time to view this portfolio to understand the type of work your proposed orthodontist does and the success they achieve. At the first consultation remember to ask about this as well, so the orthodontist can outline how they operate.
Treatment
At your first appointment, an orthodontist will conduct a preliminary assessment of your teeth and alignment and talk you through the options available. This first meeting provides valuable insight into the care, professionalism and treatment you will receive throughout your relationship.
The initial consultation should explain the type of treatment proposed, outline the length of time it will take, the cost involved, and allow you to ask any questions about the option proposed.
Location
Orthodontic work requires regular appointments, and these can be as often as every six weeks. This means the location of your orthodontist should be a big factor in selecting the right professional for you.
You need someone who is accessible to your home, work, school or all of the above to ensure appointments are easy to attend. Then factor in their opening hours or availability. Are they open extended hours or will they see you on weekends if necessary?
Technology
Orthodontics not only requires skill, but the use of technology to achieve the best possible result. During your first visit to a clinic, you should assess the general state of the facilities and the quality of the technology used. State-of-the-art equipment and facilities can affect the quality of diagnosis and the length of your treatment.
Meanwhile, the clinic should be warm and welcoming, yet professional. You can see our clinic and facilities, and meet some of the Norwest staff to better understand our approach.
Cost
A great smile is an investment that lasts a lifetime, and it’s important you clearly understand the costs involved. Orthodontic work is often less expensive than people anticipate, but before you select an orthodontist, it’s critical you know how much you will pay and how that payment will be charged.
At Norwest, we offer a clear outline of the costs of treatment, what’s included and even offer payment plans to assist with budgeting for treatment.
About Norwest Orthodontics
Norwest Orthodontics specialises in helping you achieve a great smile, no matter your age. We feature a range of orthodontic treatments that span from early intervention right through to remedial adult work.
We also have a suite of treatments available that include discrete, removable Invisalign braces, and welcome the opportunity to work with you to achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of.
You can learn more about our services, or contact us to make an appointment.
