5 Things to Consider When Choosing an Orthodontist

Are you wondering if it’s too early or too late to be concerned about overcrowded or misaligned teeth? While most kids don’t get braces until they are between the ages of 12 and 14, children as young as 7 can benefit from a visit to a pediatric orthodontist if there are already visible signs of an alignment issue, and more adults are getting braces than ever before. But how do you choose the right orthodontist?

Orthodontist Dr. Joseph Z. Yousefian and his team at Yousefian Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults in Bellevue, Washington, are dedicated to the best smiles possible. Sometimes that means intervention at an early age to ensure your child’s adult smile will be as perfect as your dreams for them. But don’t forget about yourself — sometimes it means getting orthodontic work as an adult to finally realize your dream smile.

That said, it’s important to have the right person doing the orthodontic procedures. Here are five things Dr. Yousefian wants you to know about choosing an orthodontist before you make your first appointment. 

1. Is the dentist a specialist?

Orthodontists receive an additional 2-3 years of training after they finish dental school to become specialists in the mechanics of tooth eruption and alignment. The orthodontist you choose should not only be skilled in basic orthodontic care but have the expertise needed to treat complex cases in children, teens, and adults. 

2. Is the dental office well run?

You want everyone involved in your or your child’s care to be at their best, so investigate the practice you are thinking about choosing in advance. If you can visit the facility and get a tour, you can check on things like cleanliness, comfortability, and the general feel of the practice.

3. Is the staff professional?

The sign of a good dentist is one who makes sure his or her front office is on point. Staff should be professional, friendly, and willing to help with any issue. Look for a dentist who has retained staff members for long periods of time, as this shows that the staff respect and have loyalty to the dentist they work with. Dental assistants should be certified in their area of expertise as well.

4. Is the technology up to date?

Dental care has come a long way from gummy mouth molds and clumsy, outdated X-ray machines. Seek a dentist who has invested in the tools of their craft and who also offers multiple options for orthodontic care. Traditional braces may still be the best solution for your child, but ask what other options are available, like Invisalign® that can work faster and more discreetly.

5. Is the cost realistic?

If you find an orthodontist offering a deal on braces that seems too good to be true, it just might be. You want the best care for yourself or your child, and that can mean working out a budget to afford top-notch orthodontic treatment. 

Are you ready for a consultation with an orthodontist committed to high quality in both value and care? Contact our office at 425-200-4808 to schedule an orthodontics consultation or book online today.