The orthodontist is a doctor who specializes in problems related to the alignment of teeth. Orthodontists also practice dentistry as part of their profession. An Orthodontist can also be a dentist but a Dentist cannot always be Orthodontist. You need to choose carefully between the two based on your problem.
But apart from this, are there other signs that you should look for in an Orthodontist?
The answer is yes, of course, there are signs that tell you that your orthodontist is right or not and if you notice them you should probably find a right orthodontist for your teeth.
Here are some signs of bad orthodontists that you can look for:
1. The orthodontist is inexperienced:
If an orthodontist is well-trained and has experience of at least 2-3 years he will be specialized and will have authentication of his previous work. Also, you should see if he is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) or not.
2. Outdated techniques and treatment
An orthodontist who uses outdated treatments and is not used to technological advances can prove to be bad. If he is not advanced in technology he may give poor quality treatment and can charge you more or unnecessarily.
You should always go for technologically advanced treatments as they are safer and more reliable and has fewer chances of human errors.
3. Phantom Treatments
Phantom treatments are the ones that are unnecessary and avoidable. Sometimes doctors recommend unnecessary treatments such as treatment of cavities, root canals, etc when it is not relevant and necessary. Such treatments are done to render excess bills to the clients.
They sometimes even charge in excess and create inflated bills by adding taxes and charges and exploiting patients. You should always be aware and look into the bill handed to you closely and wisely.
4. Comprehensive Dental exam:
An orthodontist who specializes in his field must go for a comprehensive dental exam i.e. complete and thorough examination of a patient’s dental health before deciding on a treatment or recognizing a problem.
It is said that your overall health depends on your oral health and hence you should get a comprehensive dental examination done before going for any treatment. This helps a doctor to find out problems that can affect your future health.
If your doctor starts a treatment without an overall examination then you can certainly think of changing your doctor.
5. Medical history and records
When you go for treatment with a new orthodontist it is important for them to check your old records. Your medical history with your previous doctor is what they should look into first.
If they do not ask for such records then you should be careful while getting treated with them. Your history will tell them about your oral hygiene and the treatments you had before so that they can advise you accordingly in the future.
6. Bad reviews on social media
When choosing an Orthodontist who is not known to you or to people around you check for reviews posted by people on social media.
If an Orthodontist is given bad reviews and ratings you can always avoid going to them.
7. Creative diagnosis
Every orthodontist should talk on the basis of proofs and evidence which indicate that there is a problem. If a doctor does not recommend you X-ray and is telling you to do the procedures which are expensive and unnecessary then it can be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
You should always look for proof of your dental problems rather than rushing for treatment.
8. Upselling products
If your orthodontist apart from his treatment is trying to sell products to you which are not required by you. Then it is a big sign of a bad orthodontist.
An orthodontist is a doctor and not a marketing agency. It is recommended that you change your doctor if he is handing you products that you don’t want to buy.
To conclude with the ways of avoiding bad orthodontist:
So, in order to avoid being scammed by an Orthodontist and keep your oral hygiene and health intact you should just be careful while choosing the right doctor suitable for your condition. You can do this by just following simple ways like checking for a doctor’s background in the medical field.
Asking other patients known to you about the treatment experience. Checking google reviews and ratings. Watching out for techniques and procedures every time you go to them. Regularly analyzing their billing mechanism.
Also, see if the doctor is keeping the tools and instruments clean and hygienic. Watching over hygiene and sanitation routines followed by the staff.
If necessary take a second opinion on time.
