How to Choose an Orthodontist Near Me

When it’s time to start orthodontic treatment for yourself or someone in your family, choosing the right orthodontist is important. Whether you’re getting braces or aligners (like Invisalign), you will likely be seeing your orthodontist for anywhere from a couple of months to a couple of years. You need to find an orthodontist that you are comfortable talking to and that you trust.

Choosing an Orthodontist versus a Dentist

Orthodontists are dentists! Orthodontists have completed dental school, completed the Dental Board certification, and then completed 2-3 additional years of a specialty residence in orthodontics. During an orthodontic residency, orthodontists learn about:

• Normal dental growth and development
• Causes of and treatment for abnormal dental growth and development
• Safely moving teeth
• Creating healthy, effective bites
• Current technology for moving teeth
• Managing dental treatment that involves multiple specialties (ex. jaw surgery, implants, patients with a history of periodontal disease)

Using clear aligners (like Invisalign) to move teeth, rather than braces, is still orthodontic treatment. It carries all the potential risks that braces have. Make sure the dental professional that you are trusting to move your teeth has been trained to give you the best, safest, most effective treatment.

Your Initial Consultation

The primary goal of an initial consultation is to learn about your own or your child’s orthodontic needs. But don’t stop there! Get to know your orthodontist. Ask questions. Make sure you are comfortable talking to the doctor, to the treatment coordinator, and to the rest of the team. You want to feel like they are going to take the time to talk to you about your concerns throughout treatment.

When you are in an orthodontic consultation, make sure you know if you’re talking to the doctor or to a treatment coordinator. At Christenson Family Orthodontics, our treatment coordinator (TC) has been working in dentistry for over 20 years and can answer almost any question about what to expect during treatment. But at every appointment (from the consult until you are done with treatment!), you will be seen by either Dr. Oakley or Dr. Christenson. Our doctors will be the ones to explain your treatment plan to you and make sure you understand the process.

Board Certified Orthodontists

Dr. Oakley and Dr. Christenson are both board certified orthodontists. Unlike most medical specialties, orthodontists are not required to become board certified. Orthodontists who choose to be certified by the American Board of Orthodontists have elected to subject themselves to additional testing to prove their level of knowledge. The board certification process includes an extensive written exam, followed by a clinical exam.

Are You Ready?

Are you ready to start orthodontic treatment? Or want to learn more about how Dr. Oakley and Dr. Christenson can give you the smile that you’ve always wanted? Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation with our orthodontists! 757-482-7660