How to Choose an Orthodontist

Choosing an orthodontic practice to trust with the beauty of your smile or your child's smile is an important decision. Your orthodontic experience is something you'll remember for the rest of your life, so make sure it's something to smile about. Ask someone you trust for a recommendation.  The majority of our patients are referred by previous patients.

Selecting an orthodontist may seem like a daunting task for someone who has never been through it, so it's a great idea to ask for a recommendation from someone who has. Whether it's a friend, co-worker, or family member, they'll probably be more than happy to share their first-hand experience. Your general dentist is also a great resource to get a recommendation. If their children have had braces, ask which orthodontist they used.  Dr. McDonough has treated the children of many of the dentists in the area.

Consider education and experience.

Once you have a list of a few orthodontists, do a little research. Find out about their educational background, where they went to school, and what kinds of continuing education or specialty training they've had. Before you set up a consultation with an orthodontist, make sure he or she is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontists and is Board Certified from the American Board of Orthodontics. This ensures that they remain up-to-date on the newest and most effective clinical procedures.

If you experience any pressure to start treatment, get a 2nd opinion.

We often see patients for 2nd opinions and the vast majority of the time the patient decides to have treatment in our office.  Orthodontists have different treatment styles and personalities, so getting a consultation from more than one office is a great idea. You will find that we have the most experienced team and Dr. McDonough was trained by the best schools.  He has continued to expand his knowledge since he opened his practice in 1994.  He has also been a clinical instructor and has been educating the next generation of orthodontists at Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia.  We offer a wide range of treatment alternatives.

Ask questions.

During your consultation, don't be afraid to ask questions. After all, that's why you're here! It's important for you to understand what type of orthodontic issues you have and the most effective ways to treat them. The more informed you are about your own dental health, the better decisions you will be able to make.

Orthodontist or general dentist?

Choosing an orthodontic specialist instead of a general dentist for your orthodontic treatment is a decision that will truly make a difference in your smile.  As a specialist, I have the most advanced diagnostic information with 3-D digital imaging for a more accurate diagnosis and focus only on the health and function of your smile.  Orthodontics is a big investment in your health and confidence and the function and appearance of your smile. Why would you trust anyone less than a specialist?

A dentist must attend an additional two to three years of training at an accredited university residency program and then pass national board examinations in order to become certified as an orthodontist. This education, along with the experience of a practice dedicated solely to orthodontics, gives orthodontists a unique ability to create a customized treatment plan and carry out safe, predictable, and efficient treatment.