Orthodontists have an additional one to two years of training beyond the education of a general dentist, and they specialize in straightening teeth using braces. Because having your teeth straightened takes a few years, it can be inconvenient when you must change orthodontists as a result of a move, disagreement over treatment or a change in dental insurance providers.
Instructions
1. Inform your . As soon as you make the decision to change orthodontists, let your current orthodontist know. They may be able to advise you of a different orthodontist they recommend who may be able to continue your treatment with minimal interruption. In addition, if you're on a payment plan you need to settle your account with the orthodontist for any work he's done you haven't paid for yet.
2. Visit the website of the American Association of Orthodontists. You can search their listings by name, state or ZIP code, and you can find contact information for each orthodontist listed.
3. Ask for referrals among family and friends. If you know of family members or friends who've had braces for themselves or their children, inquire about the orthodontist they used. Ask questions you have about the services they provide as well as whether they would use them again.
4. Make an appointment with a prospective orthodontist. Orthodontists generally provide an information session with you the first time you visit them as they discuss the treatment needed as well as the cost. This is your opportunity to ask any questions you have of the orthodontist and find out if you're comfortable having them as your orthodontist. Determine if they will continue with the treatment plan of your former orthodontist or establish a new one.
5. Check your dental insurance. Before you begin any services with an orthodontist, check to make sure they are an acceptable provider under your dental insurance. Orthodontic services can be expensive, and dental insurance can help ease some of the financial burden of getting braces and straightening teeth.
6. Request your dental records get forwarded. Once you've found a new orthodontist you want to use, request that your dental records from your original orthodontist be forwarded to your new one. While they will still retain a copy for their file, they should comply with your request.
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