Can i change orthodontists

There are more than just the logistics of record transferring to consider. You will need to make sure that the orthodontist accepts transfer patients. Also, not all orthodontists will use the same techniques or appliances to get the same results. For example, not every orthodontist can fit lingual braces or is capable of continuing a treatment plan with these types of braces. Dust off the same list of questions that you had or review these that we posted about earlier and have them ready for your initial consultation.

Unfortunately, you might have to pay more that you had anticipated as a result of switching orthodontists. You will have paid initial up-front costs to your first orthodontist and you may be required to do the same for your new orthodontist. Additionally, costs often vary by region. You may move into a city which has higher associated costs.

Orthodontic Associates offers all of our patients state-of-the-art appliances, as well as revolutionary services and a wealth of orthodontic experience. Whether you or a family member are choosing an orthodontist for the first time, or are looking for an experienced doctor to complete your treatment, you can choose from any of our nine convenient locations around Baltimore to set up your consultation.

These usually include a job transfer, going off to a new school and such. But there are other reasons as well. Sometimes, the relationship between a patient and an orthodontist is unsuccessful. The patient may feel as if the orthodontist is not acting in his or her best interest. The patient may have experienced an unexpected painful treatment or an attitude that was unprofessional. Perhaps, the person feels as if a different orthodontist may offer affordable braces, whereas the current orthodontist does not.

In such cases, a person may want to change the orthodontist from which he or she has been receiving care. We will need to have all of your treatment and initial records, as well as all X-rays, ready to send to your new orthodontist. Once you have notified your present doctor, you should send your information as soon as possible to expedite your treatment plan. The quicker we become familiar with your existing plan, the quicker you will be to continuing your quest for that perfect smile.

Some examples of the type of information we need to help us formulate a treatment plan are:. If you have started your orthodontic treatment at another clinic but wish to change dentists or have been forced to relocate, you may find yourself surprised that most orthodontists do not accept patients who are already undergoing orthodontic treatment. Orthodontists tend to be stringent and only deal with patients that they have put the braces on. Before we accept you as a patient, naturally, a consultation is necessary as we need to see the work provided by the previous orthodontist s first, and see what we can guarantee and what we cannot, based on the work and the type of braces that have been applied.

Orthodontic offices may utilize any and all legal means to collect payments due if you do not settle your account. After initiating your transfer of services, settling your accounts and creating a short list of potential new providers, you are ready to book a consultation!

When booking your appointment you should immediately make it clear that you are in active treatment and interested in transferring your services. Confirm that the office accepts transfer cases.

Ask if you need to bring your current records with you or have them emailed over prior to your consultation. Be prepared to show up to your consultation enthusiastic about getting your treatment on track with your new doctor!

Meeting your new orthodontist face to face, may be both terrifying and exciting. The consultation should be thorough and include a review of your medical and dental history.

Your current orthodontic situation should be discussed at length. Take this opportunity to be open regarding your new start in the orthodontic journey. Your new doctor and treatment coordinator will lay out a new treatment plan for you. This will include removing your current braces and bonding a new set of braces.

FAQ Do my braces have to be removed when I transfer my treatment to another provider? When you transfer offices you should expect to have to remove your current braces. You will need to have new braces bonded or start fresh with new aligners. One of the more common misconceptions in orthodontics is that all braces and treatments are the same. There are many different types of braces. Each bracket type has a specific prescription built in that your doctor likes to use. Because of this there are multiple combinations of bracket system type and prescription that you could have bonded on to your teeth initially.

When you transfer offices you might not have the same combination of braces and prescription that the new doctor uses. Because there are so many possible combinations you should expect to have your braces removed and replaced when you transfer your braces treatment. When transferring active treatment, you will have a new financial plan and contract that covers the remainder of your treatment.

Your fees should include the consultation, orthodontic records and continuation of treatment fees. You will also be charged a de-bonding fee to remove your current braces. This takes time in the office so you will be charged for this in most cases. Your new treatment fee may be surprisingly more or less than what you originally contracted for at your initial office. You may experience regional differences in fees if you have moved states or local differences if you transferred treatment to a more prominent doctor in your community.

This may be one reason to really shop around when selecting a new orthodontic office. A change in provider may also affect your ability to utilize any remaining insurance benefits that you have remaining. Make sure to verify these 3 key things before signing your new contract:. Contact your insurance carrier for specific questions. Make sure to get those questions answered prior to your consultation visit. Getting all of this in order will make sure that your insurance benefits transition over smoothly to your new provider.

With all of your new treatment recommendations and finances squared away, review your new contract thoroughly. Sign on the dotted line and you are now ready to restart your treatment journey!

Transferring your orthodontic services can be a stressful task. So follow this guide closely to decrease your levels of stress and anxiety with the process. Start the process of transferring your orthodontic care by using the step by step method I outlined in this article. We all take small detours, twists and turns in life and orthodontic treatment is no different.

With open communication, careful planning and a great doctor you will be on the road to a successful treatment in no time. Top Menu Menu. Home Primary Menu. Share on Facebook. Confirm that the office you want to transfer to accepts your insurance.