You will notice that many of these questions are the same as those you should ask your dentist. That is because most of the information learned will apply to anyone that you are going to entrust with your orthodontic treatment.
- Are you an orthodontist? If you are in an orthodontic office, the answer to this question should be “yes,” but you could be surprised at the answer. Remember that there are no such things as silly questions.
- Did you complete a residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics? All true orthodontists have completed this residency. Otherwise, the answer to question 1 should be “no.”
- Are you board certified in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics? Some practicing orthodontists may not yet be board certified. If they are not, it is important that the dental professional at least be “board eligible.” Board eligible means the dentist has finished the necessary courses but has not taken or passed the clinical and written board exams. The exception to this is if the dentist is still in residency. In that case you make qualify to become a “board case.”
- How many different orthodontics patients did you treat last year? A specialist in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics will likely see between 100 and 300 orthodontics patients per year. Some more, some less. If they are seeing less than one new patient a week on average, ask why that is the case. Is it because of teaching responsibilities? Clinical or basic science research interests? Journal editorial or other professional commitments? You will need to determine if the answer meets your needs.
- Do you perform advanced or complex orthodontic treatment? Again, the answer to this question should be “yes.” Orthodontists are the braces specialists, after all.
- What is the role of an orthodontist? This question is important for determining if the dentist is a true specialist and focuses on orthodontic treatment alone or if there is a good deal of general dentistry in the practice. You may want a specialist that works exclusively in orthodontics.
- Under what circumstances do you refer to a dentist? Referrals are not only made to specialists; Specialists are refer to general dentists. Just as you do not want a general dentist performing advanced maxillofacial oral surgery, you don’t want your orthodontist to be doing too many general procedures (including yours in many cases). Asking this question early in the process can be helpful if issues arise later.
- Are you a member of the American Association of Orthodontists? Most orthodontists in the United States will at least be a member of the American Association of Orthodontists. While membership in this organization is not critical, you may want to find out if they were barred from membership for any reason.
- Has your staff had specialized training in orthodontic treatment? An orthodontic office with specially trained staff can make your experience with orthodontic treatment much more pleasant and successful. This is a perk that may not be available everywhere, but if it is, it can give you extra confidence in the skill and professionalism of the orthodontist.
- Do you offer traditional braces as well as more advanced clear dental braces? When this question is directed to an orthodontist, you are looking to see if you have the flexibility of all available technologies. A skilled orthodontist can give you the pros and cons of both traditional and clear teeth braces.