With offices in Norman, Mustang, and South Oklahoma City, Craig & Streight Orthodontics hosts three of the most experienced orthodontists in Oklahoma: Dr. Robi Craig, Dr. Ryan Streight, and Dr. Heather Kierl. One of the most popular questions they get is whether people need a referral to see an orthodontist or any other dental specialist.
The answer is no: While a preliminary visit to a general dentist is a good idea, a patient can self-select any orthodontist they wish to visit.
Do You Need a Referral to See An Orthodontist?
Patients often think of family dentists as being like general practitioners in a medical setting who need to refer them to a neurosurgeon if they need to stop a brain tumor—or an ear, nose, and throat doctor if they need to alleviate a case of chronic sore throat. Orthodontists cannot blame them for thinking this way since general dentists need several additional years of training and certifications before becoming orthodontists.
Orthodontists like Drs. Craig, Streight, and Kierl are always busy fixing teeth alignment issues and jaw problems on patients with genetic disorders, unhealthy lifestyles, or who have been victims of accidents affecting the mouth area.
Orthodontists are medically capable of performing routine procedures like any average dentist. However, because they have specialized certifications in brace and aligner installation, maintenance, and removal, their services tend to be a little bit more focused on those areas—and also more expensive.
Dental insurance plans from most providers do not require a dentist referral before a patient can see an orthodontist. However, more and more people need professionals with specialist knowledge on jawbone correction and teeth realignment every year.
These people can directly schedule an appointment anytime they want with one of the Craig & Streight Orthodontics offices in Norman, Mustang, or South Oklahoma City, OK, to see Dr. Robi Craig, Dr. Ryan Streight, or Dr. Heather Kierl.
Do You Need to See the Orthodontist to Whom Your Dentist Referred You?
Some cynical patients who receive a referral from their dentist surmise that both practices are getting a cut. However, they actually have the freedom to choose any board-certified orthodontist they want. Furthermore, if a patient believes that another dental professional can administer better treatment or has a more convenient location, they are welcome to become that doctor’s patient if they have open appointments.
In fact, many people visit more than one dental specialist to get multiple opinions on treatments. Craig & Streight Orthodontics has the top spot in Oklahoma for dental referrals for traditional braces and Invisalign aligners. Many of these clients come to their offices solely to get an expert second opinion.
State and local laws allow patients to get dental care from whichever medical specialists they choose—including orthodontists with the most state-of-the-art equipment and recommendations from family and friends.
However, it is best when a general dentist has ensured that a patient's oral health is well enough to receive orthodontic care. A patient should always ask their dentist for the best treatment option to get a beautiful smile or keep their mouth healthy—which may not necessarily include metal braces or orthodontic care.
Why See an Orthodontist from Craig & Streight?
Craig & Streight Orthodontics is the most recommended option in Norman, Mustang, and Oklahoma City by dentists and for people seeking the best orthodontists in Oklahoma. Call the Craig & Streight team at 405-321-1926 to set up a consultation appointment.
