Finding the right orthodontist feels different when you’re choosing someone else, especially your child. It’s not just about straight teeth. You want someone your family dentist would recommend, someone who respects your time and budget, and someone your kids don’t mind visiting. With so many offices offering similar services, knowing what to look for helps narrow the search and makes the decision easier.

Start with Location and Access

Orthodontic treatment can last 12 to 24 months or longer. You’ll visit the office frequently for check-ins, adjustments, or aligner pickups. That’s why location matters.

Look for offices near your home, school, or work. This makes it easier to schedule appointments and stay consistent with treatment. If your child needs to miss school or you need to miss work, less time on the road means less disruption to your day.

If a practice has multiple offices in your area, that’s a bonus. You’ll have more flexibility if one location gets booked or if your schedule changes.

Look at Available Services

Not all orthodontic offices offer the same treatment options. Some focus only on braces, while others offer a wider range of aligners and appliances.

Ensure the provider offers services that align with your needs. These may include:

• Traditional metal braces

• Clear ceramic braces

• Clear aligners like Invisalign

• 3M Clarity Aligners

• Phase 1 orthodontics for young children

• Orthodontic appliances like expanders or retainers

• Emergency orthodontic care

At Embrace Orthodontics, we provide these services across our locations in Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, and Balch Springs.

Consider the Office Environment

Your family’s comfort matters. A welcoming, organised, and professional office helps set the tone for the entire treatment experience.

Pay attention to the following:

• Is the office clean and well-maintained?

• Do the staff greet you and explain the next steps clearly?

• Is there enough space in the waiting area?

• Are the exam rooms private and comfortable?

Kids may feel nervous during their first visit. A friendly atmosphere makes a big difference. Parents should also feel that their time and concerns are respected.

Check the Orthodontist’s Experience

Ask about the orthodontist’s background. Education, training, and years of experience all matter. Some orthodontists have added skills in imaging, radiology, or specific treatment methods.

Dr. Anas Athar, for example, holds training in both orthodontics and oral and maxillofacial radiology. This helps him plan treatments more accurately and avoid delays caused by missed details in imaging.

You want a provider who can explain your options clearly and build a treatment plan that fits your goals.

Ask About Technology

Technology affects how smooth and accurate your treatment will be. Offices that use digital scanning, 3D imaging, and cloud-based treatment tracking can deliver better results in less time.

Some orthodontists still use molds or outdated records, which can slow down your start or increase the risk of errors. Ask if the office offers:

• Digital impressions

• 3D scans

• Digital before-and-after simulations

• Clear aligner progress tracking

These tools give families a clearer picture of what to expect and how things are progressing.

Review Insurance and Payment Options

Cost plays a big role in choosing the right orthodontist. Braces and aligners can be affordable with the right plan. You just need to ask the right questions.

Before treatment begins, ask:

• Do you accept my PPO insurance?

• Do you take Medicaid or CHIP?

• Do you offer in-house payment plans?

• What are the down payment requirements?

• Do you accept CareCredit?

Embrace Orthodontics accepts PPO insurance, Medicaid, CHIP, and CareCredit. We also offer flexible payment plans to help families begin treatment without delay.

Make Sure the Schedule Works for You

Orthodontic care should fit into your daily routine. Ask about appointment availability, late hours, and weekend options. A good office will offer times that work for school-age kids, working parents, and busy professionals.

Our offices provide flexible scheduling across multiple locations. This gives families more ways to stay consistent without rearranging their entire week.

Look for Good Communication

Your orthodontist should explain treatment in a way that makes sense. You should never feel rushed, confused, or pressured. Ask:

• How do you explain treatment options to new patients?

• Do you provide printed or digital treatment plans?

• How often do you check in during treatment?

• What happens if something breaks or feels wrong?

Good communication builds trust. It also helps you stay on track, especially when treatment takes longer than expected.

Read Reviews and Ask Around

Online reviews can help you spot patterns. Look for comments about cleanliness, wait times, staff friendliness, and treatment results. Don’t focus only on star ratings. Look at what people say.

You can also ask your dentist, coworkers, or other parents for recommendations. First-hand experiences can help you narrow your list.

Visit the Office Before Deciding

A consultation is the best way to get a feel for the practice. Most orthodontists offer free first visits. Use that time to ask questions, meet the team, and review your treatment plan.

Bring your child if they’re the one receiving care. Watch how the staff interacts and how your child responds. That feedback can help you decide if the provider is the right fit.

During the consultation, ask:

• How long will treatment take?

• What options are available for braces or aligners?

• What is included in the total cost?

• How often are check-in visits scheduled?

• Who should I contact with questions between appointments?

Take your time deciding. A good office will support you through that process and follow up with answers.

Why Families Choose Embrace Orthodontics

We provide braces and aligners with personalised care across four convenient locations. Our team focuses on clear guidance, honest pricing, and long-term results.

Families trust us because:

• We accept PPO, Medicaid, CHIP, and CareCredit

• We offer multiple payment plans

• We treat kids, teens, and adults

• We speak English, Spanish, and Arabic

• We use digital scans and 3D treatment planning

• We offer Invisalign, 3M Clarity Aligners, and traditional braces

• We run a clean, welcoming practice with short wait times

You’ll receive a free consultation, a step-by-step treatment plan, and ongoing support throughout your care.

Final Thoughts on Choosing an Orthodontist

Picking the right orthodontist is a family decision. You want a provider who delivers strong results, stays flexible with your schedule, and respects your budget. Ask the right questions and visit more than one office if needed.

Your smile—and your child’s smile—deserves a provider who listens, plans, and delivers. With the right choice, orthodontic care becomes a smooth part of your routine, not a burden.