Is It Possible to Go to a Different Orthadontist Than the One That Put on Your Braces?

It is always an option to switch doctors in dentistry or medicine. There is always likely additional costs and often additional time in treatment b/c the Doctor has to get reacquainted with the case and offer their diagnosis and workup as well as treatment recommendations.

Changing orthodontists in the midst of treatment is typically termed a "transfer" between practitioners.  If the change is made strictly for location convenience, then the costs for travel and time must be outweighed by the costs involved in the transfer.  If you are pleased with the services of your current licensed specialist, that may be far more valuable than the unknown of a new office and orthodontist.  Saving a few dollars on gas or minutes in transit over a two year period may not cover the costs of "regret" if you find you're displeased after you transfer.

There are many reasons why patients must switch orthodontists during treatment. People lose their jobs or get transferred. We have a military base here that has moved patients in and out of our practice for the past 19 years. It is possible to transfer, but it is not always convenient or cost effective. There are some parts of your treatment fee (like diagnosis and treatment plan) that cannot be refunded and will need to be redone by the next orthodontist. That can be frustrating, but it is the nature of orthodontic care. Please visit my blog by clicking below to see a recent article I wrote that gives a more detaild explanation of changing orthodontists.

You always have the option to switch but keep in mind that treatment plans and appliances vary and you could end up extending the length of your treatment and increasing the cost.  Sometimes It is necessary to change out the braces, sometimes not.  If you are happy with your orthodontist, the treatment is going well,  and you seem to be getting good results in a timely manner, I would not recommend changing.  If the trip is very long like a hundred miles or better, talk to your orthodontist and see if he knows any other orthodontists in your home area that would use similar braces and treatment plans to his before making any changes.  Also ask if he can lengthen your treatment intervals and possibly reduce the total number of appointments/trips that may be needed to finish.

You always have the option to switch orthodontists, for any reason you feel valid.  Just remember that addional fees may be incurred and different orthodontists have different ways of treating problems.

Most of the time we do not need to replace existing braces but if the new ortho wants  to do this seek a third opinion