Choosing an Orthodontist For Your Child

Dental professionals generally recommend a child should see an orthodontist at or around age 7. However, in the presence of a confirmed or suspected orthodontic issue, it is appropriate for a younger child to make a visit. The importance of preserving and maintaining a child's oral health cannot be overstated. Therefore, the task of choosing an orthodontic professional to treat a child should be approached with great deliberation. 

Finding an orthodontist

There are usually several orthodontists practicing in any given community. This offers parents the opportunity to choose among different options. However, it also makes it increasingly important to perform due diligence in selecting the one that is most suitable. 

1. Phone book or online search

A phone book can provide the names of orthodontists practicing within a particular community. A web search is a little more flexible, allowing a parent to search beyond the community or within a certain radius. Parents may also be able to access testimonials from prior patients with an online search. 

2. Referrals from family or friends

A large number of children require orthodontic treatment. Therefore, it may be possible to obtain recommendations from acquaintances with children who have seen an orthodontic professional in the community. 

3. Recommendations from a dentist

A dentist who is familiar with the child's dental history and temperament may be the most valuable resource for finding an orthodontist. Not only is the dentist familiar with the child but likely also knows orthodontists in the area and can better gauge an appropriate practitioner. 

Evaluating an orthodontist

Having obtained the names of several candidates, the next step is for the parent to evaluate each orthodontic professional. The goal is to assess whether the child would benefit from treatment from the provider. Before even crossing the threshold into an office, the parent should call and ask if the initial consultation is free. This is especially important if there are quite a few likely candidates. During the initial consultation, questions about the following matters can help the parent gather enough information to make an accurate assessment of the candidate's suitability. 

Credentials

A parent should ask about the orthodontist's education, the degree obtained, board certification and membership in professional organizations. Education includes where the professional attended school and underwent orthodontic residency. Having obtained this information, the parent should then confirm that the dental college is accredited and check any other pertinent details.

Treatment options

Many orthodontic problems have more than one possible solution. The parent should ask about the treatment options available and the consequences of delaying treatment. Additionally, the parent should request an estimate of how long the treatment may take. 

Financial matters

The orthodontic treatment represents a significant expense, which insurance may or may not pay for. The parent should ask for an estimate of overall costs, whether or not insurance is accepted and what payment plans or options are available. 

Conclusion

Beginning orthodontic treatment during childhood years can mean optimizing results. Nevertheless, there is plenty of time to research various options and find the professional deemed most capable of treating your child. Rushing the decision is not to anyone's advantage. 

Request an appointment here: http://www.tennisonortho.com or call Tennison Orthodontics at (817) 522-7358 for an appointment in our Cleburne office.

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