What to ask your orthodontist

Before you start orthodontic treatment, here are 10 questions we recommend you ask your orthodontist.

1. Are you a specialist orthodontist?

There is a difference so this is an important question to ask first up. An orthodontist is significantly more experienced in the field of orthodontics than a dentist is so you need to find out who’s treating you.

2. Are you a registered specialist orthodontist?

All specialist orthodontists will be registered and this information should be available on the clinic’s website. If not, do ask your orthodontist.

3. What qualifications do you have?

An orthodontist becomes an orthodontist after three years of postgraduate study in the field of orthodontics. This is done on top of a five-year Bachelor of Dentistry. Dentists, on the other hand, have this first degree in dentistry but not the subsequent orthodontic training.

4. What professional memberships do you have?

Specialist orthodontists are committed to ongoing training and keeping up to date with the latest in orthodontic practices and techniques. One of the ways they do this is by becoming a member of various professional bodies, such as the Australian Society of Orthodontists (ASO).

5. How many years of experience do you have?

In addition to finding out how many years of experience your orthodontist has, also ask him/her what areas they have a particular interest in. This is especially important if you’re interested in having Invisalign treatment. 

6. Who will be assisting you (the orthodontist) with my treatment?

An orthodontist works with a team of professionals around him/her, which include registered dental assistants (RDAs), orthodontic dental assistants, and treatment coordinators. Ask how the team works at the practice and who is likely to be involved with your treatment.

7. What qualifications does the team have?

Everybody who works within the orthodontic industry is required to have a professional qualification so find out what qualifications the supporting team has.

8. Can I see some examples of your work?

Most orthodontic websites have a section with case studies, showing before and after photos of patients they have treated. This allows you to see the standard of work they can achieve. Also ask to read some testimonials from previous patients to see how they found their treatment experience. 

9. What follow-up care do you provide?

Professional specialist orthodontists really care about their work and the well-being of their patients. Ask your orthodontist about follow-up care post-treatment as this is a good indicator of the level of care and service you’ll receive.

10. Which dentists do you work with?

Although you don’t need a referral for orthodontic treatment, most patients are referred for orthodontic treatment by their dentist. Ask your dentist which orthodontist they work with and would recommend as it is important your dentist is kept informed of any orthodontic treatment you have.