There is a big difference between Orthodontists and as prospective patients it is important to understand these differences. Very few patients who come to us for a second opinion will return to their original orthodontist. The important factors you need to considered are:

1. Does the Orthodontist explain the problems and treatment clearly? As a patient or parent of a patient you have a right to understand all the problems that are present, how they are to be treated, and what the results will be and are there likely to be any complications. If that is not explained clearly get a second opinion.                                                                                                                                                                                  
2. Does the Orthodontist give a written guarantee? Orthodontic treatment is expensive, and patients have the perception that the results will last, but this is not necessarily true. I give all my patients (with the exception of those patients treated for free or below cost, or minor treatments) a written guarantee stating that if there is movement following braces I will correct the movement and there is no charge for braces should they be required for the retreatment.                                                                                                                                                                                                         
3. Once braces are removed I encourage patients to return as long as they possibly can. There are no further charges except laboratory fees to remake retainers when necessary. I have many patients still returning more than a decade after their braces were removed, and by doing this their teeth are kept in excellent condition.                                                                                                                                                                                             
4. Do teeth need to be extracted. I try to treat all my patients without extractions and I am successful in nearly all cases. I RECOMMEND ALL PATIENTS GET A SECOND OPINION BEFORE THEY HAVE TEETH EXTRACTED.                                                                                                            
5. Will the Orthodontist give treatment choices? While not everyone is suitable for different treatments, in many cases there are choices available. Many orthodontic practices are set up as production lines for braces and braces alone and that is all they will offer. Most of our patients are given treatment choices.                                                                                                               
6. Is the orthodontist using the best materials. I see no place for using materials because they are cheaper as they are invariably of lesser quality. The best example of this is CLEAR BRACES. I really feel sorry for patients who are given old fashioned metal braces as I know the focus of their treatment is profit and not quality.                                                                                                                                                                                                       
7. Is the Orthodontist current with the latest technologies? In 2010 I have attended 3 Orthodontic Conferences, a total of 14 days of very high quality continuing education. I do not accept everything I hear, I evaluate it, and I integrate the ideas that I believe are beneficial for the patients I treat.                                                                                                           
8. How long does the patient's appointments take? How much work does the orthodontist do? The answers will be informative.One orthodontist has 3,000 patients under treatment. His annual income must be absolutely staggering! But how much time and care does each patient receive?                                                                                                                                                                  
9. Will the orthodontic treatment hurt? The Orthodontist has the responsibility to minimise the discomfort for the patient. While it is difficult to avoid discomfort after the initial braces fitting appointment, the less pain the patient experiences during treatment the better the orthodontist is doing the job.However I know of some orthodontists who find it quicker to do braces up too tight. This allows a quicker appointment and the patient does not have to be seen as often. Great way to make more money. Unfortunately it is not good for the health.                                                                                               
10. Is the Orthodontist concerned about oral hygiene? I will not commence treatment on a patient who cannot or will not care for their teeth adequately. It is not good enough to blame the patient for not looking after their teeth. It is the Orthodontists responsibility to select their patients carefully and educate and encourage them to maintain adequate care of their teeth and braces during treatment. Although there are a small number of patients who are a problem in this respect, I believe we have a very good relationship with our patients and oral hygiene problems are minimised.                                                                                                                              
11. Is treatment expensive? Orthodontic treatment is expensive, but how expensive. I know of local orthodontists who charge $2,000 to $4,000 more than I charge for similar treatments. I know of dentists who charge about $3,000 more than I charge and they provide a lesser service. Fee is not an indication of quality, I wonder if fee merely reflects how greedy the orthodontist or dentist is. My staff will give guidelines to our fees over the telephone if you wish to make an enquiry, However you will need to make an appointment for a more accurate quote, this will cost $85 which I believe is well invested.