Ask Your Dentist and Friends: When looking for your St. Louis orthodontist, you might have better luck asking your dentist and friend for recommendations. Friends who are happy with their results or a dentist who knows an orthodontist are more likely to give good referrals so that you get a better orthodontist. If the orthodontist is good friends with the dentist, you might even get preferential treatment by way of introduction. Friends are basically the best way to get a truly honest review of any medical practitioner, so make sure you ask around.
Take Free Consultations: Most orthodontists in St. Louis offer free consultations to talk about what they would do, how much it would cost, and how long it would last, so make sure you take advantage. Consider taking two or three consultations and then settling on the one that you like the best. Budget can be important in this case, but pay attention to suggested results and time frames as well.
Check Payments: Payment methods can be important and one of the first things you should do is see if they will accept your insurance, or if they allow payment plans. Some orthodontists in St. Louis work with insurance providers so you are more likely to get a better deal and have to pay less if your insurance is already supporting them. In fact, you may want to consider calling your insurance company first to see what they cover, how much, and where they recommend that you go.
Look for an Orthodontist not a Dentist who Does Orthodontics: While it is true that many dentists also do orthodontics, you might get better results from a specialized STL orthodontist. Unless you are very fond of your dentist or would like to maintain a relationship with him or her, going to a specialist can help you to get better results on your dental work.
Choose based on Location: Orthodontics treatments often require multiple visits over several months and years, so try to choose an orthodontist who is as close to your home or place of business as possible. Cutting down on travel time can make the trip that much easier, and easier on your budget. Consider your local options that do not require long drives or out of the way trips because it will make your life easier a few years down the road when you are still visiting.
An orthodontist is an important part of dental care so make sure that you find a good one. Checking services, budget, and reviews are all great ways to do this.
