When your teeth need straightening, you have an overbite, or your jaw is misaligned, it takes professional care to repair your smile. However, since these issues are considerably different from general dentistry, you’ll need to see a specialist known as an orthodontist. These providers focus on providing treatments that safely shift teeth to improve both oral health and appearance.

However, since orthodontic treatment requires ongoing care, you’ll need to make sure the specialist you see is qualified and trustworthy. Below are a few characteristics you’ll want to keep in mind when finding a reliable orthodontist to spruce up your smile.

3 Qualities to Look for in an Orthodontist

1. Board Certification

When reviewing providers for orthodontic care, focus only on those who are board-certified. Board-certified orthodontists are professionals who have met all the educational and training requirements as established by the American Board of Orthodontics. By understanding all the complexities of dental development, these qualified professionals can accurately pinpoint problem areas and perform treatments correctly.

It’s also important to make sure their credentials are current, as orthodontists must renew their certification every 10 years to ensure they have maintained a working knowledge of their specialty. By choosing a specialist who has invested in ongoing education, you can also rest assured they are aware of the most advanced treatments for your condition.

2. Diverse Treatment Options

One of the most common reasons people visit an orthodontist is to get braces. However, if your provider only offers traditional metal ones, you may be missing out on options that work better for your lifestyle.

For this reason, it is critical to work with an orthodontist who not only provides conventional braces, but alternative treatments as well. For example, if you want to avoid metal brackets, you might want to consider lingual or clear braces. Or, if you want greater comfort and flexibility, you’ll want to choose a specialist who offers Invisalign®, an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear aligner trays to gradually adjust your teeth.  

3. Payment Flexibility

Orthodontic treatments can be expensive, and dental insurance may not be enough to cover the cost—or at all. While it’s important to choose a qualified orthodontist who offers competitive rates, you’ll also want to look for those who accept various payment and financing options, such as CareCredit.  

If you need an orthodontist in Anchorage, AK, who offers all these benefits and more, look to the specialized care provided by Thomas J. Munger III, DDS.  As a specialist with more than four decades of experience, Dr. Munger can confidently diagnose problems and offer a variety of advanced treatment options. You can learn more about his services online. Or, if you’d like to schedule a complimentary consultation, call (907) 345-3744.