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.