Affiliation:
1. Department of Orthodontics, Albadar Dental College and Hospital, Gulbarga, Karnataka, India
Abstract
Choosing an orthodontist is one of the most important decisions patients need to make for their beautiful smiles. What are the factors that lead a patient to choose an orthodontist for their treatment? To find an answer, a survey was conducted to explore information from patients about the factors influencing them for choosing an orthodontic practice. The questionnaire focused on the role of social media, qualification, patient feedback, general dentist referral, treatment cost, reputation of the dentist, latest technologies used, age and gender of the practitioner, and location of clinic in the selection of an orthodontist by the patient. The research included 400 new orthodontic patients visiting dental college and orthodontic office. The study concluded that advertising tools such as social media, qualification and reputation of the practitioner, feedback from previous patient, age and gender of the practitioner, and dentist referral were important criteria in selecting an orthodontist.