Do I Need a Referral to Visit an Orthodontist in Newark, OH?

You’ve lived with your bite woes long enough, and now you’re ready to seek treatment to straighten your teeth. The only thing stopping you is you currently aren’t working with a dentist, so you’re wondering how to get a referral to visit an orthodontist in Newark, OH. What if you didn’t need a referral at all? Wouldn’t that be easier? Read on to learn how simple it is to have your bite fixed!

Do Orthodontists Require Referrals?

In times past, it was quite common for patients to only visit the orthodontist their general dentist referred them to. Now, with such an open flow of information and increased access, the “red tape” has been removed.

Many orthodontists now allow patients to seek care directly. This creates an avenue for millions of people in need of orthodontic care to now take action.

Tips for Finding the Right Orthodontist

While it’s ultra-convenient to have the freedom to seek care from the orthodontist of your choice, it places the responsibility of finding the right professional on your shoulders. No worries, though, because these tips will help you out:

• Visit the office – One way to feel comfortable about the decision you make is to visit the orthodontist’s office unofficially. This can be an effective way to determine whether you’ll be comfortable receiving care there.
• Check the credentials – Before committing to an orthodontist, it’s best to make sure he or she has received the proper training. This information should be easy to find online.
• Take a look at the website – These days, it’s common for an orthodontist to have a website. This is a great way to learn more about the professional you’re considering working with.
• Seek referrals from friends – There’s nothing like “word-of-mouth.” Thus, it’s worth asking your friends about the care they received from a prospective orthodontist before making a decision.
• Ask about treatment options – There’s more than one way to straighten teeth. So ask the orthodontist what options he or she offers.

Take Advantage of Free Consultations

Most orthodontists offer free consultations, but you should still check in advance just to be on the safe-side. When you visit the right professional, it will cost you no more than a little of your time to be examined and to learn about the available methods for achieving a more functional and aesthetically-pleasing smile.

To schedule your first visit and to get on the path to perfectly-straight teeth, reach out to your orthodontist today!

About the Author

Dr. Timothy G. Wigal is a graduate of the West Virginia University School of Dentistry. He then went on to receive his certificate of specialty in orthodontics from the West Virginia University Department of Orthodontics. Dr. Wigal’s specialty training included advanced tutelage in the diagnostic and treatment philosophy of the Six Elements of Orofacial Harmony, which fuses dental and facial treatment planning into orthodontic care. A member of the American Association of Orthodontics, he offers free consultations at Wigal Orthodontics, and he can be reached for more information through his website.