
Why Should You
Get a Second Opinion for Braces or Invisalign Treatments?
The importance of second opinions in medical care is well documented. According to Yale Medicine, a 2017 study showed that 21% of patients who received a second opinion ended up with a new diagnosis, and 66% of diagnoses were refined by the second opinion.
Orthodontic treatment is medical care: orthodontists are doctors who study for nearly a decade to master the arts of dental alignment and oral health. And just like medical doctors, orthodontists often come to differing conclusions about a patient’s diagnosis and the proper course of treatment. They may have different recommendations for the appliance used in treatment, as well as the necessary length of treatment and the costs for care.
In addition, not all orthodontists use the same methods, utilize the same advanced technology, or have the same amount of experience with each appliance. For instance, a certain orthodontist may not recommend Invisalign removable clear aligners, not because they won’t work for your diagnosis but because that doctor isn’t experienced and comfortable with that appliance. Getting a second opinion from an experienced Invisalign provider will allow you to feel confident that you’re getting the most informed recommendation for your smile care.
Cost matters, too: the price of orthodontic care varies depending on treatment method, the severity of your case, where in the country you seek treatment, and the experience of your doctor. Getting a second opinion and a second quote (or more!) will help you determine the reasonable cost of your smile care, to avoid being overcharged, or paying too little for inferior service.