So you’re looking to finally make your dream smile a reality! Or maybe your dentist suspects you have an orthodontic condition and suggests you see an orthodontist. No matter the case, you’ve now got your referral and your personal list from googling “orthodontist near me” and “best melbourne orthodontist”. Now it’s time to narrow down your choices!
But choosing an orthodontist can be a challenge if you’re not sure what to expect or what to ask.
While we recommend reading all your prospective orthodontists’ reviews, surfing their websites, and asking your friends and family about their experiences – there’s 5 top questions you can ask to ensure you’re going to receive the best possible smile results.
Let’s go over them now…
1. Are they a qualified orthodontist?
While dentists are licensed to treat cosmetic orthodontic concerns with braces or Invisalign, an orthodontist can diagnose and treat the root of your misalignment.
To be a qualified orthodontist, dental professionals must complete their 4 years of undergraduate education, 4 years of dental school, and 2 to 3 years of specialized training or residency (which is about 4,800 hours of orthodontic training).
Both of our family orthodontists, Dr. Caudill and Dr. McNeight, have completed these requirements and stay up-to-date on all things orthodontic through their professional dental memberships.
2. Who does braces placement?
If you’re leaning toward clear ceramic braces or traditional metal braces, it’s worth asking “who puts on the braces”! The answer should always be the orthodontist.
As the braces expert, your orthodontist will have mapped out the optimal areas to place your brackets so you can coast your way to your smile goals. Your orthodontist should also be the one handling any braces adjustments.
This is true at Caudill and McNeight Orthodontics – in our Merritt Island, Viera, and Melbourne orthodontist offices. Dr. Caudill or Dr. McNeight will be the one assessing your smile-in-progress at each appointment and letting you know of any necessary adjustments.
3. What is their expertise with Invisalign?
If your heart is set on Invisalign treatment, you should take extra care in learning about each orthodontists’ experience – are they a certified Invisalign provider? How many Invisalign cases have they done?
If an orthodontist offers Invisalign as one of their treatment options, they’ve successfully completed training from Align Technology (the makers of Invisalign) and are a certified Invisalign provider.
You can easily discover an orthodontist’s Invisalign experience level by checking their website or by using Invisalign’s Doctor Finder – their status can range from Bronze to Diamond Plus.
Caudill and McNeight Orthodontics is the first and only Invisalign® Diamond Plus Provider in Brevard County, Florida! Which means our orthodontists are in the Top 1% of Invisalign doctors nationwide. This level of experience enables them to treat more complex cases that other orthodontists may not be able to treat with Invisalign.
4. How are orthodontic emergencies handled?
Don’t be afraid to ask how orthodontic emergencies are handled! Will your orthodontist be available to take care of any situations that arise in a timely manner? How do you get a hold of them in the case of a broken bracket?
At Caudill and McNeight Orthodontics, if you ever find yourself in the middle of an orthodontic emergency, please don’t hesitate to call or text us. Our friendly team is available to answer any questions you have, provide you with expert advice, and direct you toward any resources that will be helpful to alleviate your pain. If your orthodontic emergency requires an appointment before your next scheduled visit, our team will get you scheduled for a repair or replacement as soon as possible. Our first goal is to relieve any pain or discomfort you’re experiencing and then get you back to coasting through your treatment.
5. What does each treatment plan entail?
Once you’ve narrowed your potential orthodontists down, request an appointment with each one! You’ll be able to receive an expert opinion on your orthodontic condition and see an outlined payment plan.
Now it’s time to get to the part everyone is curious about – finances! It’s crucial to ask for the exact fee details once a treatment plan is made. We’ve heard horror stories of where a patient is charged extra if their treatment goes too long or they receive a charge for a retainer at the end of their treatment.
At Caudill and McNeight Orthodontics, you don’t have to worry about any hidden fees! Our treatment coordinators will go over all of the details of your payment plan at your consultation. And there’ll be no surprise cost at the end of your treatment for retainers! You’ll receive one set of retainers at no extra cost once your smile-in-progress is complete!
Make Choosing an Orthodontist Easy!
Choosing an orthodontist can sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! You and your orthodontist should be on the same page when it comes to meeting your smile goals. Use these 5 questions to easily find the best orthodontist for you.
If you have any questions about our orthodontists or orthodontic treatment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us! Our team is happy to answer any questions you have. We offer complimentary orthodontic exams for all new patients so you can receive an expert opinion and understand the finances behind your personalized orthodontic treatment.
Looking for a top Melbourne orthodontist? You can catch a wave of confidence with us in Melbourne, Merritt Island, or Viera. Request your free exam today!
