Choosing a family orthodontist in Liverpool can be a dilemma. There are so many new dentists popping up everywhere these days, it can be a problem deciding which will suite your family best. There are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration when choosing an orthodontist.
Here are some important points to consider:
1. Recommendation – It is advisable that you either get a recommendation from your dentist or from friends who have had a good experience with an orthodontist before you make your final decision.
2. Communication and Experience – Is the dentist in question on the General Dental Council’s Specialist List? How many years of working experience do they have in their field? Do they listen to what their patients needs are and do they communicate well with their patients?
3.Availability – Since we are all very busy, we need to fit orthodontist appointments into our busy schedules. You need to find out if the orthodontist will be available at times that suit your needs and if they are willing to make adjustments to their schedules to fit you in. Finding someone who is flexible is vital.
4. Location – Treatment could possible take a few years to complete, especially in the case of braces, which need to be adjusted every 6 weeks. You need to choose an orthodontist that is near to your home, school or work.
5. Range of treatments – How many different treatments does your dentist/orthodontist offer? Do they offer a wide variety of services or only a limited amount? Limited services is normally an indicator that the treatment is not being done by a specialist.
6. Affordability – Treatments for children under the age of 18 is available through the NHS and adults who have the need for orthodontic treatments can also be offered on the NHS in certain hospitals. Should you have a major issue, it is advisable that you get your dentist to refer you to the correct people to see if you qualify for NHS treatment. Many people will not qualify for NHS treatment and will be required to go private if they want straight teeth. There are some orthodontists who will allow you to make payments in installments, so it may be a good idea to find out if they do before the time.
7. Friendly staff – Since you will be spending a considerable amount of time with your orthodontist of choice, you want to make sure that they make you feel welcome and treat you in a friendly manner. You want to choose a team that is going to make you want to go back.
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