Choosing an orthodontist is a large commitment financially, and emotionally. You will be spending the next 18-30 months visiting this practice every 6-8 weeks. You need to be comfortable that this is the right choice for you and your child.
The following list of questions may help you decide, click each question to read our response – download a PDF of our Orthodontic Question Guide to take with you to any orthodontic appointments you may attend. It will serve as a handy prompt.
- Are you a registered specialist orthodontist with the Dental Board of Australia?
- What is your professional experience?
- Do you offer a range of treatment options and can you describe the benefits and limitations of each?
- What are your treatment goals and are they aligned with mine?
- Will braces only straighten my teeth, or will they also improve my bite?
- Can I talk to one of your patients about similar treatment they may have had?
- Will you be prepared to discuss another opinion I may obtain after my consultation?
- Is there a benefit in attending a group practice such as MOG?
- Is the practice part of an independent group, or a corporate franchise?
- Do you use auxiliary staff and what is their role?
- How long does the treatment take?
- How frequent will the visits be?
- Do you use the latest technology to improve comfort and performance?
- Does the practice offer flexible financing?
- Does the quoted fee include records?
- Can I ask for my x-rays?
- Does the quoted fee include retainers?
- Does the practice charge for emergency appointments?
- What should I do if there is an emergency during my treatment?
- What extra costs could possibly arise throughout treatment?
- Is my child the right age for treatment?
- What will the consequences be if I don’t do this treatment now?
- How does the practice work to emphasise good oral care at home?
- Do you work with other specialists if I need additional treatment?
- If I don’t need orthodontic treatment will you tell me?
