5 Reasons to Do an Orthodontic Virtual Consult

A study conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that a third of adults haven’t visited a dental professional in the last 12 months. For those who do go, 42% are still not seeking dental care as much as they would like. Therefore, one can surmise that adults aren’t skipping caring for their teeth due to a lack of desire. Rather there are many other barriers to prioritizing orthodontic treatment, such as time, distance, and dental anxiety. Participating in a virtual consult can alleviate many of these concerns while offering several benefits. Here are the top five reasons to participate in a virtual orthodontics consultation.

1.  A virtual consult saves time

Your time is valuable, which is why choosing an orthodontist that offers virtual consultations is so crucial. Virtual visits reduce the time you would spend getting ready, traveling, and potentially waiting to be seen. Virtual consults also allow you to visit at a time and place that is convenient for you, whether that’s in your kitchen or at the office. Choose an orthodontist, such as Bruno Orthodontics, that not only offers first patient virtual consultations, but virtual follow-up appointments as well.

2.  Minimizes pressure

Many orthodontists offer complimentary virtual consultations. During your consultation, you can also ask about payment plans or other options to make treatment more affordable and manageable within your budget. Additionally, a virtual consult can also lessen the pressure to begin treatment right away, especially if you are just starting to think about treatment or might want a second opinion. Since you aren’t in person, you can get the information you need, think about it on your own time, and decide to pursue treatment when it’s convenient for you.

3.  Reduces exposure to viral illnesses

Virtual appointments can help keep you healthy by limiting your exposure to those who may be infected with COVID-19 or even the flu or common cold. Given that some carriers may be asymptomatic, practicing social distancing and limiting physical contact is a wise method for reducing the likelihood of infection.  

4.  Lessens anxiety

According to a study conducted by Northwest Dentistry, between 50% and 80% of adults in the United States have some degree of dental anxiety. Due to this anxiety, patients avoid care and miss appointments, which results in a greater need for treatment down the line. A virtual consultation can greatly reduce anxiety because you know that you will not experience any discomfort during your appointment.  

5.  Enhances privacy and security

Your virtual consultation is completely confidential between you and your orthodontist. Given that you can control the environment you are in during your appointment, you can feel free to share your concerns and thoughts about treatment options knowing your information is secure.

If you feel you need to receive orthodontic treatment but are nervous about the procedures, cost, time, or your health, a virtual consult may be for you. Not getting necessary orthodontic care can have unintended consequences, so take control of your health and schedule your virtual consultation today to get your oral health back on track.