A recent study found that at least 60% of Americans feel they would benefit from orthodontic care. Many didn’t receive braces as teens and are now looking for adult orthodontics.

Finding the right orthodontist will require research, even if your dentist has suggested a referral. It’s important to verify that your orthodontist will meet your needs and expectations before you embark on your orthodontic care experience.

If you’re looking for an orthodontist in Glenview, IL, we hope you’ll consider Graber & Gyllenhaal Orthodontics. First, we’d like to give you some tips to make sure that we’re a good fit.

Read on to learn seven mistakes to avoid when choosing an orthodontist.

1. Not Considering Your Insurance Coverage

Between 60-70% of Americans have some form of dental insurance coverage. Depending on the specifics of your policy and the reason why you’re seeking braces or a braces alternative, the orthodontic services you’re going to receive may be covered in part or in full by your insurance. 

As a result, it makes sense to narrow down your search by finding out which orthodontists are in your network. Keep in mind, however, that if your insurance doesn’t offer much coverage for orthodontics, this may not be your primary consideration when selecting the right practice for you and your family. 

In addition to considering your insurance coverage, you can also find out more about payment options. Comparing orthodontic treatment costs and the payment plans offered by different orthodontists can ensure that you get the care you need without going over budget.

2. Not Verifying Credentials

You may not realize that while orthodontists have received the same education as dentists, the inverse is not true. Orthodontists complete dental school before spending additional years studying and practicing orthodontics. This prepares them to receive a license and perform a wide variety of orthodontic services.

Before you consider an orthodontist in Glenview, IL, review the office’s website for transparency about credentials. What you’re looking for is an office that staffs board certified orthodontists that have the proper education and licensing. 

3. Not Considering Services Provided

These days, there are many options you can consider when you want straighter teeth. However, some orthodontists may provide limited services, prioritizing traditional braces rather than some of the popular alternatives patients are looking for today.

For example, if you’re seeking Invisalign in Vernon Hills, you’ll want to review the services offered to verify that the orthodontist you’re considering provides Invisalign. The same goes for clear braces, SureSmile braces, and more. At Graber and Gyllenhaal, we offer all of these services and more.

4. Picking an Orthodontist That Can’t Help the Whole Family

These days, nearly 30% of orthodontic patients are adults, and that number is continuing to rise. Why? Today’s adult patients realize that orthodontic care is just as beneficial for adults as it is for kids and teens.

If you and your kids need orthodontic care, why find a pediatric orthodontist for them and a separate adult orthodontist for you? It’s hard to stay on top of your dental health when you’re juggling appointments all across town and multiple payment systems. Seek an office that provides care for all ages to streamline the care your family receives. 

5. Not Reading Online Reviews

Credentials are by far one of the most important considerations when you’re picking an orthodontist. After all, you don’t want to see someone who hasn’t been properly trained to align your teeth! However, no one should have to sacrifice quality of care, either.

Reading online reviews can help you assess things like ease of scheduling and “bedside” manner. Do people enjoy visiting this orthodontist and feel comfortable asking them questions? You and your family deserve an orthodontist that will leave you smiling after every visit!

6. Picking an Inconvenient Location

No, you might not find an orthodontist that’s within walking distance of work or school, but ideally, you don’t want to go too far for your appointments. Oftentimes, patients have to schedule appointments during their work or school hours, and the quicker you can get there, the less disruptive your appointments will be. 

Graber and Gyllenhaal Orthodontics have two offices, one located in Vernon Hills and one located in Glenview. There’s no reason to have to drive from one town to another to get the quality orthodontic care you need. 

7. Skipping the Initial Consultation

Some questions are hard to find answers to online, including some of the considerations we’ve listed here. By requesting a consultation before your first appointment, you can create an opportunity to ask questions, get a sense of how an office works, and talk to your potential orthodontist about the types of treatment they would recommend for you.

At Graber and Gyllenhaal, we want you to have all of your questions answered before you even schedule your first appointment. That’s why we offer a free virtual consultation to all of our new patients! At the end of the day, we want you to make the decision that’s best for you and your family.

Looking for an Orthodontist in Glenview, IL? We Can Help

Trying to find a new orthodontist isn’t always easy and there’s plenty of room for error. We hope that this guide has prepared you to begin your search to access Invisalign, expanders, and braces in Glenview, IL and elsewhere.

If you’re on the hunt for an orthodontist in Glenview, IL, we do hope that you’ll consider us here at Graber and Gyllenhaal. Our orthodontists are licensed and board certified, and we’re prepared to provide some of the latest orthodontic treatment options. 

To find out more, contact us today. We can’t wait to find out how we can help you and your family!