When we go to the doctor, we want to ensure they listen to us and take our needs and concerns seriously. It’s no different when going to the dentist, especially when discussing orthodontics. And for this reason, the concept of a patient-centered approach to orthodontics has become increasingly commonplace. For a good cause, too, as the patient should be at the forefront of their care. Orthodontic care shouldn’t be a cookie-cutter approach anyway. But what exactly is meant when it comes to a patient-centered approach to orthodontics?

Patient-centered orthodontics puts you first.

If you live or work in the greater Omaha area and require orthodontics, you’ve likely been doing homework about which dentist to see for your treatment plan. Orthodontics candidates must think carefully about which dentist they elect, as not all dentists are the same. If you need orthodontics, be sure to look for a dentist or orthodontist that will put you first, with a patient-centered approach. Here are some things to consider when looking for patient-centered orthodontic care. 

1. Every patient is a unique individual.

When it comes to orthodontics, the right dentist will understand that every patient is a unique individual. There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Different types of braces might be better for different patients, and some patients will need orthodontic intervention sooner than others. Look for a dentist who will focus on your needs, for you and you specifically, providing you with personalized orthodontics.

2. Look for a dentist who truly listens to your questions and concerns.

Seek out a dentist who listens to you and doesn’t just hear you. After all, hearing and listening are not the same. Whereas hearing is the passive intake of noise, a dentist who truly listens will take the time to understand your questions about orthodontics and provide you with satisfactory answers. Therefore, if you need orthodontic treatment and want a dentist who practices patient-centered orthodontics, you will want them to have excellent listening skills when you ask questions or share concerns.

3. Great communication is about more than just words.

While you and your dentist will need to have a healthy verbal dialogue to discuss your needs, you should look for a dentist who can also demonstrate what they are saying. Sometimes a visual can help explain a more complicated treatment plan. This means that you should ask your dentist for visuals or diagrams so you can see (not just hear) what you are being told. 

4. Seek out an explanation of the treatment process. 

Just as it is essential to understand the high-level details of your patient-centered orthodontics treatment plan, so too should your dentist walk you through the treatment process so you can understand the finer detail. When it comes to orthodontics, it usually isn’t a one-and-done procedure. This means that you should expect multiple visits as your teeth shift and get closer to the results you seek. And, you may need more than one orthodontic treatment, as braces aren’t always a single solution. Be prepared for spacers or expanders, or even a retainer when your braces treatment is complete.

5. Patient feedback should be welcome, always.

You don’t have to be trained in dentistry to be able to offer meaningful feedback to your dentist. If you don’t understand something, feel discomfort or pain, or feel anything less than 100% about your patient experience, look for a dentist who will invite your feedback and consider what you have to say. The dentists at The Tooth Doc not only appreciate feedback, but intentionally seek it out to ensure that they continue to offer the best possible care to patients in the Greater Omaha area.

6. Look for a dentist who will give you results that you will be proud of. 

Your orthodontics treatment is for you and nobody else. And when those braces come off, and your treatment comes to an end, you should have a smile that you can own and be proud of. Ensure that your dentist understands your needs, manages expectations, and gives you a smile that you will love and want to show off to others.

Looking for a good orthodontist in Omaha, NE, that provides patient-centered orthodontics?

If all of the above sounds like a dentist you want to work with, you are already on the right path to that winning smile. For years, our patients have been coming to The Tooth Doc for Omaha’s best orthodontic care. Whether you need treatment for an underbite, overbite, open bite, spacing, or crowding, we’ve got you covered and will provide you with the patient-centered orthodontics experience you deserve. 

Please request an appointment today using our online form or give our office a call. We’ll be happy to schedule a consultation with one of The Tooth Doc’s dentists and get you on the path for a smile you’ll be thrilled to show others.