How to Choose the Right Orthodontist in Los Angeles
As an orthodontist, I’ve seen firsthand how going to the wrong orthodontic provider cannot only lead to more treatment time and money but can make your problems worse. In some cases poor oral hygiene can lead to a host of dental problems and crooked teeth and misaligned jaws can make it even worse. If left untreated, these issues can cause difficulty with chewing, speaking, and even breathing. Fortunately, orthodontic treatment with the right provider can help to correct these problems and improve your overall oral health.
However, not all orthodontists are created equal. You might have heard whispers—or even searched online—about the “worst orthodontist in town.” And honestly, I get it; some practices fall short, leaving patients frustrated or worse off than when they started. The good news? By spotting certain red flags, you can avoid a bad orthodontist and find a good orthodontist who truly cares about your smile. Choosing the right orthodontist is key to achieving the best possible care and a treatment experience you’ll feel great about.
Orthodontists are dental professionals who specialize in the use of orthodontic appliances, such as metal braces and Invisalign, to straighten teeth and improve the alignment of the jaws. These treatments can be effective for both children and adults, and can help to improve the appearance of your upper and lower teeth while boosting oral health.
Orthodontist Mistakes to Avoid
Here are ten signs of a bad orthodontist—red flags I’ve learned to recognize over my years in orthodontics. These are the kinds of orthodontist mistakes that can derail your treatment plan and leave you searching for answers.
1. Poor hygiene standards
A good orthodontist – really, any dental professional – will always maintain high standards of hygiene in their office. This means that their office, equipment, and staff should be clean and organized at all times. My team and I keep our office spotless, from the equipment we use to the chairs you sit in. Cleanliness isn’t just about appearances; it prevents infections and ensures your safety. If you notice poor hygiene in your orthodontist’s office, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
2. Inadequate communication
Clear communication is essential in any doctor-patient relationship, and this is especially true for orthodontists. A great orthodontist walks you through the plan, answers your questions, and makes sure your concerns are heard. We believe in crafting personalized treatment plans that fit your unique needs, and that starts with listening. If your orthodontist is unable or unwilling to effectively communicate with you, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
3. Poor treatment results
The ultimate goal of orthodontic treatment is to straighten your teeth, improve your bite and achieve a healthier smile. If your orthodontist is not achieving these results, or if your teeth are becoming worse despite treatment, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist. If your treatment isn’t progressing—or if you’re in pain without explanation—it’s quite possibly time to seek a second opinion.
4. Unreasonable fees
Orthodontic treatment can be expensive, but a reputable, good orthodontist will be transparent about their fees and will work with you to create a payment plan that fits your budget. If your orthodontist is charging excessive or unexpected fees, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
5. Unprofessional office staff
Our staff at Orthospaceship is the heart of our practice—they’re professional, kind, and here to make your visit smooth. The office staff at your orthodontist’s office plays a crucial role in your overall experience. They should be professional, attentive, and courteous at all times. But unprofessional behavior, like rudeness or disorganization, can signal deeper issues. The staff reflects the orthodontist’s leadership. If they’re not up to par, your care might not be either. If you notice unprofessional behavior from the office staff, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
6. Lack of credentials
Orthodontists are required to have specialized training and education beyond dental school in order to practice. This typically includes a dental degree and an orthodontic residency program — think years of residency and certifications from groups like the American Association of Orthodontists. If your orthodontist does not have the appropriate credentials, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
7. Unwillingness to refer you to a specialist
Orthodontic treatment can be complex, and there may be situations where your orthodontist needs to refer you to a specialist for additional care. A good orthodontist will be open to referring you to a specialist if necessary, and will work collaboratively with them to ensure that you receive the best possible care. If your orthodontist is unwilling to refer you to a specialist, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
8. Lack of continuing education
Orthodontics is a rapidly evolving field, and it is important for orthodontists to stay up-to-date on the latest techniques and technologies. A good orthodontist will regularly participate in continuing education in order to provide their patients with the best possible care. If your orthodontist does not engage in continuing education, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
9. Poor interpersonal skills
The orthodontist-patient relationship is an important one, and it is essential for your orthodontist to have good interpersonal skills. This means they should be able to establish a rapport with you, listen to your concerns, and empathize with your situation. If your orthodontist is unable or unwilling to establish a good relationship with you, this may be a sign of a bad orthodontist.
10. High turnover rate
A high turnover rate among staff members can be a sign of a bad orthodontist. This may indicate that the orthodontist has a poor management style, a difficult working environment, or other issues that are causing employees to leave. If you notice a high turnover rate among staff at your orthodontist’s office, this may be a sign that you are dealing with a bad orthodontist.
If you notice any of these signs with your orthodontist, it may be time to consider finding a new one. Your oral health is important, and it is worth it to invest in a reputable and skilled orthodontist who can provide you with the best possible treatment.
Choosing the Right Orthodontist – Signs of a great Orthodontist
Finding the right orthodontist starts with a little homework. You can start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or your regular dentist. You can also do some research online to find orthodontists in your area who have good reputations. When you are considering a new orthodontist, be sure to ask about their credentials, experience, and approach to treatment. Meeting in person during a consultation lets you see how they communicate and whether you feel at ease in their care.
You might’ve searched terms like “worst orthodontist near me” after a bad experience—or even “best orthodontist near me” hoping to find the perfect fit. I get it; no one wants to end up with subpar care close to home. To dodge the worst orthodontist near me, watch for the red flags above. Better yet, focus on finding the best orthodontist near me by looking for glowing reviews, a strong local reputation, and a practice that puts patients first. A consultation can seal the deal—meet the staff, ask about personalized treatment plans, and see if they ease your anxiety.
A great Orthodontist is typically skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthodontic issues, from crooked teeth to misaligned jaws. They are also adept at creating personalized treatment plans that address your unique needs and goals.
One of the key qualities of a great orthodontist is their ability to develop an effective treatment plan. This plan should be tailored to your specific orthodontic issue and should take into account your long-term oral health goals. A great orthodontist will take the time to carefully evaluate your teeth and jaws, and will use this information to determine the right course of treatment. This may involve the use of traditional braces or Invisalign, or a combination of both.
Another important quality of a great orthodontist is their ability to communicate effectively with their patients. This means taking the time to explain the treatment process, answering any questions you may have, and addressing any concerns you may have. A great orthodontist will also be open to working with you to develop a payment plan that fits your budget, so that you can afford the dental treatment you need.
In addition to their technical skills and communication abilities, a great orthodontist should also have a passion for their work. They should be dedicated to helping their patients achieve optimal oral health, and should be committed to providing the best possible care. This may involve staying up-to-date on the latest advances in orthodontic treatment, or working with other dental professionals to provide the most comprehensive care.
For children and teenagers, a great orthodontist should also be able to create a positive and engaging treatment experience. They should be patient and understanding, and should be able to explain the treatment process in a way that is easy for young patients to understand. This can help to alleviate any anxiety or fear that a child may have about undergoing orthodontic treatment.
Overall, a great orthodontist is someone who is skilled, compassionate, and dedicated to providing the best possible dental treatment to their patients. They are committed to helping you achieve optimal oral health, and will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Ready for a Smile You’ll Love?
If you’re in Los Angeles and want a professional you can trust, I’d love to meet you! At the Orthospaceship – Hakim Orthodontics, my team and I are all about delivering personalized, quality care. With years of experience and a heart for helping patients, we’re here to make your orthodontic treatment a breeze. Schedule a consultation today—let’s get started on your perfect smile together!