When you have concerns about the position of your teeth, an orthodontist is the doctor who can help you. Orthodontists specialize in optimizing the placement of your teeth in relation to your mouth and jaw. They can prescribe you braces and other orthodontic gear to treat overbites, underbites, and crooked teeth. If you haven't sought out orthodontic treatment in the past, you won't have a regular orthodontist. Here are four tips that can help you find a good one.

1. Ask your dentist for a referral.

Your dentist may have a go-to orthodontist that they refer all their patients to. If you like and trust your dentist, a referral can save you the time and hassle of finding an orthodontist for yourself. Your dentist will probably refer you to an orthodontist that takes your dental insurance, but it's a good idea to call their office to check before you schedule an appointment. This can save you from any unfortunate billing surprises.

2. Choose a conveniently located office.

Take your travel time into account when choosing an orthodontist office. You may want to pick a place that's close to your home or office so visiting your orthodontist for checkups doesn't become a time-consuming chore. Many doctor-finding websites allow you the option to narrow your search by location. You can search for orthodontists that practice within a five or ten mile radius of where you live and work.

3. Read all the reviews you can find.

The internet contains a wealth of information. Once you find an orthodontist you're interested in visiting, you can check out reviews other patients have left for them online. Make sure to note what patients say about the parking situation and office itself. All of these things will have an impact on your overall experience.

4. Visit for consultations.

Once you've narrowed down your list to a few orthodontists, you'll want to meet them in person. The doctor-patient relationship will work best for you when you choose a doctor that you're comfortable with. A consultation is a necessary first step when it comes to orthodontic treatment, and your consultation will give you an opportunity to get to know your potential doctor to make sure you're a good fit for each other.

These four tips will help you find the perfect orthodontist. Your orthodontist can help you get the smile you've always wanted. Trust your teeth to their expert care for a straight and healthy smile.