When trying to find an orthodontist online, there are several factors to consider to conduct a thorough and successful search. No one should compromise on this task, as an orthodontist plays a major role in treating misaligned teeth and biting issues, which are beneficial to one’s overall oral health. Changing orthodontists down the road can be an issue, so getting it right the first time can be beneficial for a long time.
Online aspects to consider
The internet has made finding any professional practice simple and painless. Patients seeking a new orthodontist can look for specific things online to narrow down the search. A patient can determine if an orthodontist is a good fit based on the following factors.
Location
One of the simplest ways to select an orthodontist is by checking nearby locations. Patients can check if an orthodontist's office is close to home or on a commute route, like on their way to school or work. Choosing an office that is not far out of the way makes it easier to schedule appointments and reach the orthodontist in case of emergencies.
Hours
Not all orthodontists run typical office hours. Some may only work on certain days of the week or are closed in the afternoon. Patients should consider a practice that has hours that accommodate their schedules. An individual who works from home may have a more flexible schedule than a parent who has to drop children off for school and sports. The work-from-home employee may choose an orthodontist who works three days a week, while the parent should find an orthodontist with a wider variety of hours.
Services
After patients have found a few promising practices, it is time to look at the services each office offers. Some orthodontists provide more services than others. Becoming a regular patient at an orthodontist who can complete a variety of treatments is helpful if an unexpected issue suddenly arises, such as loose braces or broken bands. Instead of anxiously trying to find a different orthodontist, patients can rest easy knowing their chosen practice has it covered. Look at the orthodontist’s website to get a full scope of the practice, and never hesitate to reach out with questions in an online chat, email, or phone call if necessary.
Reviews
Reviews are a great way to see what other patients think about an orthodontist. Recommendations from family or friends are always better, but online reviews are the place to turn to if that is not an option. Try to find an orthodontist with a higher star rating based on a large number of reviews. While there may be a couple of bad experiences, a majority of good reviews are usually a promising sign of great orthodontic service.
Conclusion
Picking a new orthodontist is a personal choice. Even if several good orthodontists are in the area, one may suit your needs better than others. After assessing locations, hours, services, and reviews online as you try to find an orthodontist, consider dropping by the office to see the staff and check out the atmosphere.
Request an appointment or call Precision Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry at 703-391-8800 for an appointment in our Reston office.
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