Second Opinions for Orthodontics Gilroy, CA

Getting a second opinion on orthodontics can help patients make the right decision regarding a particular treatment. Orthodontic care is an important investment, so it is essential to get as much information as possible. Do not hesitate to seek other professional opinions when making decisions that will impact your smile.

Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment of time and money. Our team at Richard R. Gallagher DDS MSD MSE PhD Inc. in Gilroy and the surrounding area provides second opinions for orthodontics so you can seek treatment with confidence. Call us at (408) 500-0810 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

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    Save Money and Time

    Like physicians, orthodontists often have different opinions about a patient’s diagnosis and the proper course of treatment. Depending on the chosen appliance, the length of treatment and associated costs can vary. Seeking another opinion allows people to explore their options, potentially saving time and money.

    The price of orthodontic care can vary widely depending on the treatment method, the severity of the condition, and an orthodontist’s experience. Getting a second opinion will help you determine a reasonable cost for treatment that does not sacrifice service quality. People should also consider the treatment length and the number of appointments that will be needed. Finding a provider who uses newer technology and treatment strategies can cut down on the overall treatment time.

    “Seeking another opinion allows people to explore their options, potentially saving time and money.”

    Finding the Right Provider

    People should see their dentist before making an orthodontic appointment. Dentists will often refer patients to a specific orthodontic provider. However, orthodontists do not require a referral to diagnose and treat a malocclusion.

    Even if the dentist does not provide a referral, they may have a list of recommended providers to help get the search started. While referrals from a primary dentist can help, people have no obligation to go there for treatment. People can choose to visit the referral recommendation for a consultation and look for a second opinion afterward if the orthodontist does not feel like a good fit.

    “Even if the dentist does not provide a referral, they may have a list of recommended providers to help get the search started.”

    Looking for Treatment Alternatives

    Most patients want the least noticeable and most convenient orthodontic appliance. Thankfully, technology has advanced beyond braces to where various comfortable and less obvious treatment options are available. Seeking a second opinion allows people to compare their options and choose the right one for their needs.

    When unsure about an orthodontist’s diagnosis or treatment option, people should not hesitate to tell them about the type of treatment they prefer. Sometimes, an orthodontist will have experience in certain techniques and encourage patients to choose that treatment, even if it might not be the best option. Look for a provider who has the experience to create an individualized treatment plan that both the patient and orthodontist approve.

    “Seeking a second opinion allows people to compare their options and choose the right one for their needs.”

    Check out what others are saying about our orthodontic services on Yelp: Second Opinions for Orthodontics in Gilroy, CA

    Treatment Disagreements

    Each patient will come to the orthodontist with a unique situation. In some cases, a provider may suggest multiple tooth extractions, jaw surgery, or gum grafts before even beginning orthodontic treatment. In such situations, it is beneficial for patients to seek a second opinion to determine whether such procedures are necessary.

    In other cases, an orthodontist may recommend a completely different type of treatment instead of braces or suggest that a young child needs braces right away. People should feel comfortable asking questions to understand their decision-making process better. If the patient disagrees with the recommended treatment, a second opinion time can provide the additional details needed to make an informed decision.

    “If the patient disagrees with the recommended treatment, a second opinion time can provide the additional details needed to make an informed decision.”

    Searching for a Specialist

    Orthodontists vary in their experience and utilize technology and orthodontic techniques. A lack of training or comfortability with a type of orthodontic treatment may prevent some orthodontists from recommending it. People interested in a specific orthodontic treatment can benefit from a consultation with a well-trained specialist who has extensive experience in that area.

    Patients should not have to give up on their treatment goals because one orthodontist does not offer that option. There are orthodontic specialists available for specific appliances, such as clear aligners, lingual braces, ceramic braces, and more. Visiting multiple specialists and seeking their opinions will ensure that patients find the right treatment.

    “People interested in a specific orthodontic treatment can benefit from a consultation with a well-trained specialist who has extensive experience in that area.”

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q. Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

    A. The treatment cost will vary for each patient due to various factors such as the type of orthodontic appliance, location, and insurance plan. Every insurance plan is different. People interested in orthodontic treatment should contact their insurance provider before seeking treatment for coverage information.

    Q. What should I expect at an orthodontic consultation?

    A. During the initial consultation, patients can discuss their smile goals and concerns with our team. We will also examine their teeth and oral tissues and take X-rays and photographs. Depending on the patient’s situation, we may discuss recommended treatments and costs.

    Q. What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist?

    A. Orthodontists and dentists both care for oral health, but in different ways. Dentists care for the general health, wellness, and appearance of smiles. Orthodontists are dental professionals that receive additional education and training to specialize in correcting misaligned bites, teeth, and jaws.

    Q. Should I rely on customer reviews when looking for an orthodontist?

    A. People should not solely rely on customer reviews when looking for an orthodontic provider. They are one of many useful resources that can help people learn a lot more about a practice. It is beneficial to read good and bad reviews, to find out about other patients’ experiences.

    Q. What happens if I forgo orthodontic treatment?

    A. Orthodontic treatment is not only beneficial for the appearance of a smile but also its function. Properly aligned teeth and jaws allow for better oral hygiene, less wear on teeth, and long-term oral health. Misaligned teeth are more difficult to clean, which can lead to decay, cavities, and gum disease.

    Quality Orthodontic Services Can Transform Smiles

    By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need.

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    Definition of Orthodontic Terminology

    Ceramic Braces
    Ceramic braces are tooth-colored or clear braces that are made of ceramic material that move teeth the same way as metal braces.
    Dental Impression
    A dental impression is a negative imprint of the teeth and soft tissue in the mouth to help create a cast or mold to restore/correct the patient’s teeth.
    Lingual Braces
    Braces that are fixed behind the teeth on the lingual side facing the tongue.
    Malocclusion
    Misalignment of the lower and upper teeth or jaws when the mouth is closed.
    Oral Hygiene
    Oral hygiene is the practice of maintaining the cleanliness of the mouth, teeth, and gums through brushing, flossing, and regular dental appointments.
    Orthodontic Appliance
    Orthodontic appliances have multiple forms that can help treat malocclusions, irregularity with the teeth, and disproportionate jaw issues.
    Orthodontics
    Orthodontics is the specialty branch of dentistry that deals with preventing and correcting teeth and jaw irregularities.
    Orthodontist
    An orthodontist is a dentist who is specially qualified to diagnose, prevent, and treat any irregularities of the teeth and jaw.
    Teeth Crowding
    Teeth crowding is a lack of space in the mouth for all of the teeth to grow properly, leading to the need to extract some of the teeth.
    Tooth Alignment
    Tooth alignment refers to how closely or widely spread apart the teeth are from each other.

    Call Us Today

    Every patient has the right to visit multiple providers to find the right orthodontic solution for their needs. Get a second opinion from our team at Richard R. Gallagher DDS MSD MSE PhD Inc. to make sure that you are making the best decision for your smile. Call us today at 408-500-0810 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.

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    About our business, license, and website security

    • Richard R. Gallagher DDS MSD MSE PhD Inc. was established in 2000.
    • We accept the following payment methods: Cash, Checks, VISA, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, CareCredit, Apple Pay and HSA/FSA payments.
    • We serve patients from the following counties: Santa Clara County and San Benito County
    • We serve patients from the following cities: Gilroy, San Martin, San Juan Bautista, Morgan Hill, Hollister, Paicines, Los Banos, San Jose, and Watsonville
    • CA (License #42048). View License Information and Specifics
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