La Habra/Chino Hills, CA – Many orthodontic patients, or their parents, seek out a second opinion before deciding on treatment. This can provide peace of mind before making an expensive and time consuming decision. But what happens when two different orthodontists propose two different treatment plans?
“I love working with patients who have taken the time to research orthodontists and possible treatment options,” says Dr. Gire of Gire Orthodontics, who treats patients in La Habra and Chino Hills. “Research can help you better understand the issues an orthodontist talks about, which can give you a leg up when making a final decision on treatment. But, when it comes to different orthodontists recommending different treatments, there are some things to question.”
Dr. Gire offers a few warning signs to look for when talking to orthodontists.
- The orthodontist says he provides treatment in a certain way for all patients.
- The orthodontist says he never (or on the flipside, always) pulls teeth.
- The orthodontist does not explain why he has recommended this treatment.
- The orthodontist pressures you into making a decision right away.
There are some orthodontists, and dentists, who offer basic orthodontics in a one size fits all treatment approach. If an orthodontist says he offers the same treatment to every patient, this can be a warning sign. Treatment plans have to vary because the situations we face vary. Every patient is unique, and the way their teeth will need to be straightened will be unique to them.
If an orthodontist uses the words “never” or “always” in a consultation, it should lead to more questions from the patient or parent. We simply can’t say we never or always do something, because each patient is different.
If an orthodontist tells you he would use a certain treatment, but doesn’t offer to explain why, you should press for more answers. You should never go into treatment blind, and your orthodontist should be happy to explain why the treatment he or she is proposing is the best option for you.
While there may be times when speed is desirable, you should never feel pressured to make a final decision about orthodontic treatment. A good orthodontist will understand your desire to think through treatment options, and should be supportive of this.
“There are several reasons why you may hear different treatment options from different offices,” says Dr. Gire. “There are so many different types of braces that can be used effectively, and one orthodontist may simply prefer one method over another. If that is the case, don’t be afraid to ask why. If the orthodontist’s answer is because that’s what he always uses, you may want to seek out another opinion. Or, if your orthodontist tells you it’s because the treatment is much faster than treatment used by another orthodontist, be sure you ask for real results that support these claims.”
Let’s look at one small example. You may be interested in using a more aesthetically pleasing option, such as Invisalign, to straighten your teeth. The first orthodontist you visited said you were not a good candidate for this treatment, and offered a treatment plan utilizing ceramic braces. You visit a second orthodontist who says his office can treat your issue using Invisalign. But, why could this orthodontist, but not the first?
The answer may simply be the second orthodontist has more experience using Invisalign to treat more complex issues, and therefore knows all of the ins and outs, such as using buttons, hooks and elastics, to get the desired outcome. The first orthodontist may not be as comfortable using Invisalign for more severe malocclusions, so he encourages patients to seek out another treatment option.
The orthodontic field is highly competitive, and, while we always hope other orthodontists are offering true ethical second opinions, there may be factors that can influence them. If different treatment options are given, take the time to ask the orthodontist how and why they came to the decision they did. While in most cases it will simply be that one orthodontist prefers a certain method and has seen great results.
As always, if you have any questions or need a second, third, or fourth opinion, Gire Orthodontics always provides complimentary exams and consultations. Please call us in La Habra (562-690-1199) or in Chino Hills (909-393-9911) to schedule a consultation today.