Your smile is important — it’s one of the first things people notice about you. But is your smile less than perfect? Do you have crooked or crowded teeth or an irregular bite pattern?  Or perhaps you’ve been diagnosed with a TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorder.

Read on to learn how to choose an orthodontist. Here are 5 simple tips to get the top orthodontics treatment that fits your individual situation.

Orthodontic treatment is typically a long-term commitment — and a costly one. You’ll be spending a lot of time with your orthodontist, so it’s imperative you make the right choice in choosing a top quality orthodontist and avoid costly do-overs.

Tip #1: Your orthodontic treatment should be done by an orthodontist. Any dentist can apply braces, but an orthodontist has not only gone to dental school, he has also gone for at least another 2 years to acquire additional skills, training and clinical experience in the specialized field of orthodontics.

Tip #2: Verify your prospective orthodontist’s credentials. Is he licensed by the American Association of Orthodontists? AAO members are screened to make sure they are well qualified and must follow high ethical standards.

Tip #3:  Find out how long your potential orthodontist has been in practice. A well-established practice means a lot of successful outcomes and satisfied patients.

Tip #4:  Your orthodontist should be current on the latest options and techniques. Does he keep up with the current research and treatment techniques? There are both tried-and-true techniques and many new ones:  invisible or colored braces, as well as alternatives to braces, such as porcelain veneers.

Tip #5:  Check out your potential orthodontist’s office. The offices and exam rooms should be clean and organized. Is the equipment well maintained and up-to-date? Does he use new appliances for each patient or does he cut corners by recycling ones removed from previous patients?

Your general dentist might suggest a particular orthodontist he has worked with in the past. While his recommendation is a valuable one, you needn’t limit yourself to one choice. You should consult 2 or 3 potential orthodontists. Not only is this is an excellent way to get a second opinion, it gives you a chance to ask to see before-and-after photos of successful outcomes.

A top-notch online dental referral service can give you a list of orthodontists who practice in your local area. Make sure you choose one that pre-screens the professionals they list, so you can easily check their credentials, number of years in practice and educational backgrounds. Good referral services also have before-and-after photos of outcomes and testimonials from happy patients who have successfully completed their orthodontic treatments.

The typical orthodontic treatment requires a long-term commitment, so it’s important you know how to choose an orthodontist who is professional, well-qualified and who will meet your individual needs and give you the service you deserve. There are many factors to consider in how to choose an orthodontist. But if you keep in mind these 5 simple tips to get the top orthodontics treatment, you’ll have made an informed decision and have a successful outcome with your treatment.