Can I Change Orthodontists During Treatment?

Switching orthodontists during treatment can sound stressful, but while circumstances such as moving might require the switch, it’s still possible to receive uninterrupted treatment so your smile doesn’t have to suffer. Orthodontist transfers happen all the time, whether it’s because of relocating for work or as a military family, or if you don’t feel like you are receiving top care from your current orthodontist. Here are a few things to keep in mind and to look out for as you and your teeth make the move.

How to Change Orthodontists

The American Academy of Orthodontists has made changing orthodontists a lot easier by crafting this transfer form for patients in active treatment. This form ensures your orthodontists in the past and future are on the same page about the status of your treatment, what appliances are being used, financial information, records, and any other specifics of your treatment plan. This form acts as a good “to-do” list of everything you need to have in order before making the final move. 

Inform your Current Orthodontist

This is the first and most important step in switching practices. Your current orthodontist will be able to provide recommendations for new orthodontists in the area, provide additional supplies like rubber bands, and make sure you leave their office with all the necessary paperwork and medical files to get your new orthodontist up to speed on your treatment. It is also important to give your current orthodontist plenty of time ahead of the switch to prepare your paperwork and connect with your new orthodontist about any important treatment information.

Payment for Orthodontic Treatment

Another thing to keep in mind when switching orthodontists is settling up at your current orthodontist and deciding how you plan on paying at the new practice. Depending on if you paid in full or the nature of your payment plan, it also may take a little time to organize things with the current office to ensure you finalize any and all payment details. Some practices charge exit fees if a patient is leaving mid-treatment. This is something you should ask up front so you are not surprised later on by any additional fees. 

Do your Research

Before starting treatment at a new orthodontic practice, make sure you do your own research even before your initial consultation. Check to see what payment plans they offer, if they take the insurance you may have been using, and what methods of treatment they offer. For example, if you have braces and are transferring to an Invisalign-only orthodontist, you are not going to be able to receive the proper care for your current treatment plan. Some orthodontists may not accept patients already in treatment, so when booking your consultation, make sure to ask all these pertinent questions. 

If you are looking to change orthodontists or are moving to Fort Collins, Milnor Orthodontics makes transfers easy. Schedule your free consultation today to learn about the treatment and payment plans Milnor offers.