AN ORTHODONTIST

BY JENNIFER SIMONSON

SMILING IS POWERFUL. IT CAN INSTANTLY IMPROVE YOUR MOOD, REDUCE STRESS, AND EVEN RETRAIN YOUR BRAIN TO ENCOURAGE POSITIVE-THINKING PATTERNS. Unfortunately, those who don’t like the way their teeth look try to hide their smile. The truth is that many beautiful smiles are the result of spectacular orthodontic work, not good genetics. Orthodontic treatment is a complex process that involves changes in jaw bones, facial bones, and soft tissue. Orthodontic treatment also helps reduce the development of tooth decay and gum diseases caused by overcrowded teeth, decreases problems with grinding teeth, and aligns protruding teeth or jaws. By choosing a good orthodontist, you can solve many issues at once. So how do you find the right one?

Start by asking for recommendations. Orthodontic work is so common that it is likely that several of your friends, family members, and co-workers have had it done. Ask them who they like and why. Your dentist is also a great reference point. When researching orthodontists, verify that they are university trained. It is not uncommon for dentists to perform some orthodontic work without making it their specialty. You want someone who has not only graduated from a dental school, but who has also successfully completed an advanced study in orthodontics at an accredited orthodontic residency program. An easy way to verify this information is to confirm they are members of the American Association of Orthodontists by visiting their website. Only university-trained orthodontists who have completed a specialty training program in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics after graduating from dental school can be a member of the American Association of Orthodontists. For a doctor who goes the extra mile, check to see if they are board certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.

Once you create a list of orthodontists in your area, schedule an initial appointment. Take this time to make sure their offi ce is up to date with the latest technology. For the best in equipment, look for a 3D scanner that makes electronic molds of teeth. If you are worried about radiation, look for an offi ce that uses a digital x-ray and a cone beam x-ray machine. Digital x-rays use half the radiation of traditional fi lm x-rays, while the cone beam is like the medical CAT scan except it exposes patients to much less radiation.

During the consultation, make sure you ask questions about the scope, length, and cost of treatment. It is important to know how long the treatment plan will take and what type of post-treatment is necessary. Ask about the processes and tools they use that are specific to the procedures you’re planning to undergo and get a sense of what will be required to achieve the best result. Compare costs and payment plan options with other orthodontic practices. If you are not 100% satisfied with your initial consultation, it never hurts to get a second opinion. You will have the chance to compare pricing and treatment plans before making your final decision. By considering the right things and getting the best information, you’ll be confi dent that you’re making the best choice.

BY LACEY KUPFER WULF

DERMATOLOGISTS DIAGNOSE AND TREAT OVER 3,000 CONDITIONS AND DISEASES OF THE SKIN, HAIR, NAILS, AND MUCOUS MEMBRANES. A few health issues that can be improved with dermatologic care include acne, eczema, psoriasis, hair loss, rosacea, varicose veins, and signs of aging. There is also a key preventive role of these doctors through annual skin checks. Using professional strategies and equipment, dermatologists can find issues with the skin that may not be immediately apparent. Early detection of cancer concerns is vital, and treatment of melanoma can result in a cure in many cases.

loved ones. Call each doctor and set up an initial consultation, in which you can ask the doctor additional questions.

Confi rm that the dermatologist is focused on treating you rather than promoting products or services that will not directly help your condition. The doctor should view you as a patient, not a consumer. Verify that appointments will never feel rushed. Your dermatologist should provide time to explain everything thoroughly, including tests and treatments.

Ask the doctor about their experience treating your condition. If a dermatologist has subspecialty training in nail and hair disorders or skin cancer surgery, that tells you they have invaluable knowledge related to your diagnosis. Ask what their experience is with your disease.

“Choosing the right dermatologist team is so imperative. A good dermatologist will look you over from head to toe, scanning your skin for potential cancers. Early detection is essential. For cosmetic procedures, it is very important to find a dermatologist who listens and understands your goals. Choose a team with experience and the expertise to carry out the procedures in a safe manner with exceptional outcomes.”

Dr. Jeannine Hoang UNITED DERMATOLOGY ASSOCIATES

While it is generally important to see a dermatologist, it is also critical to fi nd one who is credible and can best meet your needs. Several considerations can help in your selection process.

First, verify that the dermatologist is board certifi ed. Board certifi cation will ensure that the doctor has completed a medical degree, an internship, and a residency approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. You also know that they have passed an exam by the American Osteopathic Board of Dermatology or the American Board of Dermatology.

Ask your primary care physician for a dermatologist referral. You can also get recommendations from other doctors or

Check about modes of contact outside business hours. If you receive a treatment and start to have an adverse response, you will want to be able to reach the doctor right away. Rather than fi nding out that the person you chose to trust with your skin is unavailable after-hours, ask about evening and weekend contact upfront. Make sure you can connect. While the criteria for professional relationships differ from personal ones, you still want to feel that you can communicate. As you ask the dermatologist questions in your initial appointment, be sure they answer you in plain language and are focused on your comfort.

By following the steps above, you can be confident that you have done your due diligence to fi nd a physician who will be a good fit for you.