What Are the Signs of a Good Orthodontist?

Last Updated on April 21, 2024 by Gio Greenard

What are the signs of a good orthodontist? Many dental patients are referred to an orthodontist for treatment of an array of mouth problems involving the teeth and gums. Typical problems include correcting teeth that are tipped, twisted, or missing. Related problems related to the jaw alignment, such as an overbite or underbite, may be evaluated and treated, as well. You might wonder why a dentist is unable to address these issues as part of his or her professional practice. To answer that question, let’s look at the qualifications of an orthodontist and how that line of treatment differs from regular dentistry.

What Is an Orthodontist?

An orthodontist is a specially trained oral doctor whose practice focuses on problems involved teeth condition and placement, as well as adjacent issues involving the gums, tongue, palate, and jaws. He or she has acquired an additional education beyond regular dentistry training. This specialist usually maintains a medical practice that includes a trained staff who assist with various aspects of dentofacial orthodontic treatment.

Common dental problems that may be referred to a qualified orthodontist include damage to the teeth, gums, or interior mouth structures due to a congenital condition, an accident related to driving or work, or an unexpected injury such as being hit hard in the mouth by a baseball during a local game.

A patient seeking orthodontic treatment may be referred by a dentist or another medical professional. In the event of an emergency or unexpected injury, the person might contact an orthodontist directly, at least for an evaluation or a related referral if needed.

The initial consultation may include a visual and manual exam of the mouth and affected oral structures. X-rays may be taken, along with a patient history and details about the nature of the oral problem. Depending on the patient’s regular health, other medical tests may be recommended or required, as well. The question of what is an orthodontist will be explained to reassure patients of the specialist’s training and skill with which to address the current problem.

What Are the Indicators of a Good Orthodontist?

During the first visit, which precedes treatment, you should ask all the questions you have in mind. These may pertain to the specialist’s credentials, such as where the dentistry and orthodontic degrees were earned, how long the orthodontist has been in practice, and any specializations or limitations that may be part of the practice.

Notice, too, whether the orthodontist seems genuinely interested in providing quality care. Is he or she a good listener? Does the specialist seem neatly groomed and tidy? Do you feel that you receive an adequate amount of attention for your visit, and are your questions answered, as well as any concerns alleviated?

It is also a good idea to quietly evaluate how the office is managed. Are staffs knowledgeable and efficient? Do appointments seem to be on schedule? Are the waiting area and treatment center clean and well organized? A friendly, inviting atmosphere means a lot to patients who are often a little nervous and uncertain about how things will go.

In addition, it is a good idea to check out patient reviews online. Look at previous ratings and people’s comments to see how others feel about the orthodontist and their treatment experience. There may be an evaluation grid posted online about local orthodontists or medical practitioners in general. Check to see how the orthodontist rates. Keep in mind that a few reviews do not represent a lengthy period of practice, like ten to twenty years. But you may glean some valuable insights to think about.

Word of mouth is another way to learn more about the orthodontist you are thinking about consulting. Ask family members and co-workers for opinions and referrals to see what they say. You may want to contact your other medical practitioners to see if they recommend the orthodontist you are considering. Make sure the specialist is using up-to-date techniques and products.

Finding the best orthodontist in your area to get premiere treatment is important. Take time to ensure the one you have in mind will do the best work on your teeth. If you have doubts, it might be a good idea to get a second opinion by consulting another orthodontist and then comparing the two experiences.

Beach Braces Orthodontics – How to Find an Orthodontist Near Me

How to Know If You Have a Good Orthodontist

When you fully understand the differences between a dentist and an orthodontist, and after you have had a chance to evaluate the orthodontist to whom you have been referred or one that you have selected, you will want to carefully evaluate all the information you have collected to determine whether you have found a good orthodontist for your proposed treatment plan of braces, retainers, or Invisalign, or another recommended or required service.

Although it may seem somewhat unimportant, an orthodontist’s chairside manner does play a crucial role during treatment. You want to be able to ask questions, obtain information, and be reassured during each office visit. You will want to know that your progress matters and that the orthodontist is doing everything possible to ensure a successful outcome. Patients must have faith in their medical providers to facilitate the treatment process.

Each time you sit in the office exam chair or receive an oral exam by the orthodontist, your positive or negative impression will be reinforced or adjusted. Furthermore, you will be able to see routine progress if the treatment is going well. Sometimes delays occur through no fault of the orthodontist or patient. But if the specialist seems lax, inattentive, forgetful, or uncaring, that may be a sign that your treatment is less than stellar. Let the orthodontist know if you have concerns. Hopefully, you will receive helpful explanations that will confirm everything is on schedule. If not, that might be time for a second opinion from another orthodontist.

All patients are interested in what are the indicators of a good orthodontist. Similarly, we are curious about how to know if you have a good orthodontist. The above criteria may be able to help you to form an enlightened opinion about a specific practitioner and the treatment you are receiving. Don’t be shy about asking. Sometimes even orthodontic specialists need a gentle reminder to keep them on track. Most, however, are doing a terrific job because they care about their patients’ success and well being.

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BEACH BRACES ORTHODONTICS
220 N. Aviation Blvd. Suite A
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Phone: (310) 379-0006

What Are the Signs of a Good Orthodontist?

Dr Patricia Panucci

Dr Patti Panucci attended the University of Louisville School of Dentistry for four years, where she graduated with a DMD degree (May 2000) among the Top 10 in her class. Following that, she headed west to Los Angeles to complete her three-year residency at one of the top-ranked orthodontic programs in the country – the University of Southern California.

Along with her certificate in orthodontics, Dr. Panucci earned a master’s degree in craniofacial biology. During those three years, she fell in love with Southern California beach life and decided that this was where her future lay.