Choosing an orthodontist can be nerve wracking, especially if it means the person who is going to be taking care of your little one’s teeth for the next decade. Teeth can create a beautiful smile or can be an off putting yellow one. In addition, improper tooth care can cause pain. Everyone knows mouth pain is some of the worst you can ever feel.

Orthodontics Is a Sub-specialty

If a dentist wants to specialize and become an orthodontist in Atlanta, GA, it requires two or three more years of school. This is the equivalent of a master’s degree. However, just because a dentist took the extra couple years of study does not mean they have a master’s. Dentists who do not have a master’s must advertise only that they specialize in being an orthodontist, while the dentists who have the degree will have it next to their name.

Board Certified Is Important

The American Board of Orthodontics, or ABO, keeps a list of all the board certified orthodontists. It is a voluntary process so that means not all dentists who call themselves orthodontists have to submit to testing. However, finding a board certified orthodontist in Atlanta, GA, is probably your best sign they are great at what they do. If an orthodontist chooses to become board certified, it demonstrates their commitment to do a good job, which will carry over into their practice.

Word of Mouth

Although your neighbor down the street is not a professional association, word of mouth dentistry is a great way to find a good orthodontist in your area. If you know someone in your area who has had similar issues as yours, such as a need for braces, or if they have similar-aged children, they may have some insight that an Internet search just does not. Do not jump into something just because a neighbor suggested it, but checking out the same orthodontist they use is a good idea.

Magazine Article Top Ten Listings

A fantastic way to find a great orthodontist in your area is the local children’s magazines. Many times these kinds of magazines will have top ten listings of the best rated orthodontists in your area. Similar lists are available online. Many times an orthodontist in Atlanta, GA, will put cut outs of the articles in which they were featured on the walls of their office.





To find a great orthodontist in Atlanta GA, check out Tech Dentistry online at TechDentistry.com.