La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – If you or your child needs braces, you may be wondering how to find the right orthodontist. There are probably many orthodontic offices in your area, so how can you be sure you’re getting the best care?

The American Board of Orthodontics offers the following tips:

1. 1. Get a list of possible orthodontists in your area from the American Board of Orthodontics (www.americanboardortho.com) or from the American Association of Orthodontists (www.aaoinfo.org). It may also help to ask family and friends for recommendations.

1. Research all of your options by verifying the orthodontist is certified and look at their website and for online reviews.
2. Meet with the orthodontist for a consultation.

“These two resources are a great starting place for patients beginning their orthodontic journey,” says Dr. Robert Gire, a board certified orthodontist in La Habra/Chino Hills. Asking trusted family, friends, and colleagues for recommendations can definitely narrow down the field, however, you can’t rely solely on what your friends and family say, because each orthodontic case is different and will require individualized treatment. For instance, if a family member says “Dr. So-and-so was wonderful because my treatment was so fast,” doesn’t mean you should choose that specific doctor under the assumption that your treatment will also be fast.

You’ll also want to research to make sure that the recommended doctor is actually a certified orthodontist, and not just a general dentist who offers some orthodontic treatment. This is an important distinction to ensure the best possible care. While all orthodontists are dentists, not all dentists are orthodontists. After completing dental school, an orthodontist goes on to two or three more years of additional training to learn all that goes in to straightening teeth. Orthodontists perform orthodontics every-single-day and that’s all they do so they know the field well. General dentists perform cleanings, fillings, caps or crowns, but they only do orthodontics once in a while.

Visiting the orthodontist’s website can give you a feel for how the practice operates, but it is always best to schedule an in-person consultation. Initial consultations are typically free of charge, and will give you the opportunity to meet the orthodontist, the staff, and the office.

It is important that you feel comfortable in the office and with the entire staff. Visiting in person will give you the opportunity to make sure you feel at home, are treated well, and will give you the opportunity to ask any questions that you may have.

Ask questions such as:

• What are the practice hours?
• Can you accommodate appointments around work and school schedules?
• What is the scope of the treatment plan you recommend, and what could be possible consequences if we do not opt for treatment?
• What is the cost of treatment, and what does that cost cover?
• What is the post-treatment plan?
• Will my insurance cover any of my treatment, and do you have financial plans available?
• Do you provide patient references, or have photos of actual before and after so I can see results firsthand?

Dr. Gire encourages patients to do all of their research and not to be swayed by things that don’t affect treatment, such as offices loaded with the latest video games, but to rather ensure the orthodontist can provide the results you need. He also cautions against shopping solely on price. You’ll always find someone less expensive if you look around. But remember, you only get one smile. Why risk it? Especially if the orthodontist has great payment plans to satisfy any family budget, such as the case at Gire Orthodontics. We almost never hear the phrase, “it’s too expensive.” We pride ourselves on making treatment affordable.

“Treatment costs can seem a bit daunting at first, I acknowledge that,” says Dr. Gire. “However, it is an investment in your future. The cost of orthodontic treatment today can save a host of future costs in dental work from damage caused by a poor bite. I always warn patients you get what you pay for. If you see one orthodontic office with prices much lower than others, you should probably stop and ask yourself why that might be.”

For instance, is the orthodontist actually board certified? Does his staff have adequate experience and training? Does his office use the latest and best in orthodontic technology? Are the materials recycled or used again?These are all things that play into the cost of orthodontics, and that will have an effect on your end result.

It is also important that you choose an orthodontist with whom you feel comfortable. Sometimes, an orthodontist may have all the right credentials and the office may have all the bells and whistles, but it just doesn’t feel like home. You will eventually form a relationship with your orthodontic team, and you should feel comfortable and like a part of the family. Take the time to find the orthodontist that is right for you!

With a little bit of research and time, you can find the orthodontist that will be right for your family. If you’re interested in learning more about the Gire Orthodontics family, schedule a consultation today by calling 562-690-1199 (La Habra) or 909-393-9911 (Chino Hills).