Overcoming Patients’ Orthodontic Objections

Orthodontic treatment provides effective solutions for problems affecting the function, health, and beauty of patients’ smiles. Be that as it may, patients are often apprehensive about receiving such care, much more so than other types of dental treatment. 

Addressing the following concerns can be a challenge, but it is an integral part of providing the best care for your patients.

Concern About Discomfort

Discomfort is one of the top concerns patients have regarding orthodontics. And though there are some misconceptions about the level of discomfort involved, there is also the reality that patients will have to live with some uncomfortable aspects as a result of treatment. Communicating that properly is key to addressing these concerns.

The specific concerns that patients have will depend on the type of orthodontic treatment they require. In most cases, you’ll find yourself dealing with concerns about straight wire treatments, such as a fear of discomfort while living with braces, along with tightening and adjustments. Another potential concern surrounds cuts and abrasions caused by brackets coming into contact with soft tissue inside the mouth. 

First and foremost, take the time to let your patients know that they will not be in any sort of persistent discomfort during their treatment. From there, explain that though there will be an adjustment period and some discomfort after tightenings, it will not last. After that, clarify that modern orthodontic appliances are designed with comfort in mind to avoid these issues as much as possible. You can also discuss options such as orthodontic wax to mitigate future problems. 

Understanding the reality of both treatment and recovery can help assuage patient fears and get them on board with important orthodontic treatment plans. Providing a clear and honest explanation of the potential discomfort involved sets up an accurate expectation that will improve dental patient satisfaction during treatment.

Treatment Duration

The length of orthodontic treatment is another area that many patients express concern over. And though orthodontic treatments do take significantly longer than other general dentistry procedures, patients may have an exaggerated notion of just how long that may be. Providing a more accurate picture can dispel those worries.

First, it’s important to note that treatment duration isn’t the same among all patients. It depends highly on the type and severity of the orthodontic issue at hand. You can positively impact your patients by emphasizing individual care. Evaluating their conditions and providing timelines for their specific cases is better than general figures.

You should also make sure that your patients understand all parts of their treatment timeline. Simply telling them when they’ll have their appliance on and off again isn’t enough. Instead, break things down, letting them know about adjustment frequency and other follow-ups, then clearly explain the necessity for retainers or other aftercare.

It’s important to set realistic expectations here as well. You don’t want to exaggerate the speed of treatment. Dispelling concerns your patients might have about the treatment timeline is best done by providing the most accurate picture of what they can expect.

Cost of Treatment

Cost is another major concern that patients have when it comes to orthodontic treatment, and it is also an area where concerns are highly dependent on the individual situation. The overall cost of treatment will vary depending on the patient’s unique treatment plan and their specific insurance (or lack thereof).

You must ensure your team can work effectively with insurance providers to accurately determine whether your patients are covered and to what extent. You don’t want any misunderstandings between patients and insurance providers when the bill comes due.

Breaking down the total cost of care is essential. Make sure to include every part of the treatment plan so that your patients know what to expect. Discussing the payment timeline is also important. With so many steps and appointments, your patients will want to know what is due and when.

For patients without insurance, you can help attain the care they need by offering flexible payment options. Whether that means implementing your own scheduled payment plans or working with third-party financing providers, you can open the door to good oral health for a wider range of your patient base.

Communicating the long-term value of orthodontic treatment is also key to getting patients on board with receiving care. Explain that orthodontic issues don’t simply “go away” and will only require more costly treatment later on. Detail potential long-term complications such as enamel wear and even tooth loss to emphasize that pursuing orthodontic treatment is a sensible investment in their oral health.

Developing the Skills To Communicate Effectively

Taking the right approach to communication regarding orthodontic treatment is essential to get your patients the care they need. The American Orthodontic Society provides orthodontic courses that focus on all aspects of successful treatment, including communication. Browse our courses today to build the foundation you need to tackle every part of orthodontic treatment at your practice.