Braces Confusion

Cynicaloflife on 02/03/2017 - 18:14

Hi Guys,

Just a dilemma and need some suggestions.

I need to have braces and jaw advancement surgery. I know the surgeon, that I would like to go with,

I consulted two orthodontists and decided to go with one. Now I am having second doubts.

Orthodontist 1: I like his personality. But he seemed slightly unsure, when I asked him the surgeon that he works with. He suggested a different name the first time and another name the second. When I suggested my preferred surgeon, he mentioned that he can work with him.

He is also $700 cheaper and has a smaller practice than orthodontist 2. He mentioned that, he can treat my case non-extraction without looking at my models.

Orthodontist 2:
He is $700 more expensive and my classmate (who is also going to undergo surgery) is going with him. She just started braces. But I don't like his personality as much as orthodontist 1 but apparently he is quite proactive (gives his personal mobile number etc).

He works with the surgeon of my choice. But he mentioned that, I may need extractions depending on the model. He works in a large orthodontic practice.

Now I wondering whom do you suggest that I go with? I have already got separators installed with Orthodontist 1 but I am now having second doubts.

I am worried about the orthodontist and surgeon relationship. I believe that this is very important.

Health & Beauty

Comments

  • mskeggs on 02/03/2017 - 18:22
    +1

    I think you might be over thinking it, but I would go with whoever you feel will do the better job.
    What does your surgeon say?

  • TheBMan on 02/03/2017 - 18:27

    I had both jaws done in 2008 with braces before and after, I had been to the same orthodontist for a while previously. Personality doesn't account for much, I'd rather go with someone who is skillful for the same reason I'd rule our price - this is doing to affect how your teeth work for the rest of your life, get it done right. It sounds worrying that number one is offering treatment without even looking at the models. If you already know your surgeon then they might be able to offer some advice too. How did you get the referral for number one in the first place? As the poster above says, you may be overthinking in, you've started treatment now so it's natural to be wondering what the heck you've got yourself into but you've started it now so I imagine you've probably already paid or at least committed to pay for some of the treatment. Are you still in school? This is probably a conversation you should be having with your parents.

    I'm in Perth too so feel free to DM me if you want to discuss further.

    • Cynicaloflife on 02/03/2017 - 19:06

      Hi thanks!

      I am in Melbourne now. Both the orthodontists are my professors (I am a dental student).

      The first orthodontist, explained the treatment plan and then took the models on the same appointment.

      The second orthodontist warned me that, I may need extractions (lower premolars) but this will be confirmed after analysing the models.

      Hence, I went with the first one as I was not too keen on extractions. He mentioned that I will not be needing the extractions prior to analysing the models.

      I am just worried about him, working well with the surgeon. I just feel that he might not have enough experience with orthognathic surgery cases.

      My friend is going with the second orthodontist and she will also be getting the surgery at the end of the year. Hence, I just had a feeling that he will be more experienced haha.

      I will be fitted with a quad-helix (maxillary expansion) with braces for 6 months. Surgery will happen after 9-12 months. Then braces afterwards.

      How much do surgeons and orthodontists work together?

      Hope that helps a bit!

      • TheBMan on 03/03/2017 - 12:37

        I don't know how closely they work together, as far as I could see they just faxed/mailed everything to each other. From memory I was seeing the orthodontist a lot more, he referred me to the surgeon who I had two consultations with pre-surgery and two with his assistant afterwards. As others have said, go for whoever is more professional and discuss it further with them, they're the experts

  • terahammer on 02/03/2017 - 20:48

    I just recently opt for braces (well inivisalgn).

    I was suggested that my premolars removed due to the fact i had overcrowding.
    I asked what if I didn't have extractions and continue to straighten the teeth.
    The ortho responded that it was still possible but there might not be enough gum around there to support it.

    Ask the pros and cons for extractions if you are afraid.

    However I would go for more experience than going with a recommendation from a friend

  • garetz on 03/03/2017 - 00:41

    Most surgeons who know what they are doing are no nonsense, that can seem like their personality is cold and seemingly uncaring, but all the best surgeons are this way. They dont like wasting their time, but are very good at their job.

    You shouldnt pick surgeons based on personality, choose based on experience and price.

    I would never go with someone who seems unsure of what to do, or gives you conflicting information. Thats a sure sign of inexperience.

  • Herotype on 06/03/2017 - 21:54

    I have braces at the moment and recently had a surgery which was a success. I believe you should rule out price and personality and should focus more on experience and expertise.

    Pm me if you want any further advice.

    • Cynicaloflife on 07/03/2017 - 12:18

      I can't PM you. But could you tell me, which surgeons and orthodontist you used in Melbourne?

      • Herotype on 07/03/2017 - 23:29

        Forgot to change my settings Now you'll be able to.

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