What Makes a Good Pediatric Orthodontist?

At some point in your child’s life, he or she will probably need braces, and you’ll need to find a good pediatric orthodontist.

The question is: how do you find the right one? Who’s best in your area? What makes one provider better than another?

While most dentists will typically provide you with a referral, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the person they recommend is the right fit for you or your child’s needs. If you want to make sure your child receives good orthodontic care and the expertise of a professional, then you’ll need to do a little homework first.

Here are a few considerations that will make your search easier.

What to Look for in a Pediatric Orthodontist

Extensive experience in the field
Typically, a more experienced pediatric orthodontist will have greater skill, more expertise and will be better with kids too.

This is not to say that an inexperienced orthodontist is bad. However, when dealing with pediatric dentistry of any kind, a gentle caring touch is absolutely crucial to making a child more comfortable. Someone who has hundreds or thousands of patients already will generally have more knowledge on how to approach different situations, different children and different orthodontic problems.

Latest techniques and products
These days, kids don’t have to be stuck with the same old-fashioned metal braces that you had as a child. Newer techniques and options like Invisalign are just as effective, but a lot more comfortable and virtually invisible.

When searching for providers, be sure to ask if they specialize in Invisalign (sometimes called the “invisible braces”) and what your options are. Your child will certainly thank you for it!

Kid-friendly environment
Who says that all doctors’ offices have to have the same boring gray walls and lifeless décor? A good pediatric orthodontist is one that creates a more welcoming environment for kids of all ages.

If you have younger children who are afraid of the dentist, then this is especially important. Take the time to visit each office to see what efforts are being made to make children feel relaxed and at home.

Recommendations from other parents

Who better to recommend a dentist than a parent whose child was a previous patient? One of the best ways to find a good local orthodontist is to ask around and talk to other moms and dads.

This can even be as simple as putting a question on your Facebook page, or checking for testimonials on the office’s website.

Leading Pediatric Orthodontist in Long Beach, CA

If you’re looking for one of the best orthodontists in the Long Beach area, then you need to check out FUNtastic Dental & Orthodontics.

Designed entirely around the things that kids love, FUNtastic is a complete dental theme park with movies, games and more in a bright, welcoming environment. Our professionals have extensive experience in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics, and we specialize in Invisalign as well as the latest pain-free techniques.

Stop by our office at 2700 N. Bellflower Blvd. In Long Beach, or call us at 562-627-8800 to see why children and parents alike prefer FUNtastic for children’s braces.