Before you see a specialist, like a dermatologist or cardiologist, you may need a referral from your primary care provider (depending on your insurance plan.)
So does that apply to orthodontists too? What is required for you to schedule a free orthodontic consultation?
As your family orthodontists in Charleston, we have clear answers for you. Here’s everything you need to know to get braces or clear aligners near you.
TLDR: Do you need an orthodontist referral?
- No, you do not need a referral from your dentist or primary care provider to see an orthodontist in Charleston.
- You can schedule a complimentary consultation directly with our orthodontists: Drs. Cary, Michael, and Chris Bocklet.
- Most dental insurance plans don’t require a referral for orthodontic benefits, but our team will review your coverage for you.
- We welcome patients of all ages, whether it’s your child’s first orthodontic checkup or you’re starting treatment for yourself.
No orthodontist referral necessary!
No, you do not need a dentist referral to begin your smile transformation and achieve a stunning new smile. You get to take control of your future and decide when to see an orthodontist, or when to schedule your child’s first orthodontic appointment.
If you want to see an orthodontist near you, the process is simple: All you have to do is book a complimentary consultation online by filling out a quick form on our appointment booking page. We’ll take care of the rest from there.
Your first visit with our team at Bocklet Orthodontics in Charleston is complimentary, and includes:
- Comprehensive smile exam with any necessary records: x-ray, smile scan and diagnostic photos
- One-on-one consultation with Dr. Cary, Dr. Michael, or Dr. Chris Bocklet, all experienced Charleston orthodontists near you
- A two-doctor review of your smile, so you feel confident in your treatment plan
- Finance and insurance review to create a custom payment plan
- Review of your treatment options, including clear aligners, clear braces, or metal braces (with Same-Day Braces to get braces placed on your very first visit)
We want you to feel comfortable in our West Ashley office, confident in your choice to transform your smile with us, and completely at-ease as we walk you through the process.
Dentist referrals are still possible.
While it’s not necessary for you to get an orthodontist referral from your dentist, your dentist can still refer you to us.
In fact, many dentists will recommend an orthodontic visit if they notice crowding, bite issues, or other concerns during your regular checkup, but we also encourage you to reach out to us directly, no referral required.
Throughout orthodontic treatment, you’ll still visit your dentist regularly: every six months or as often as they instruct. Your dentist performs deep cleanings of your teeth, removing hardened plaque and tartar that can’t be removed with your regular dental hygiene routine at home.
What about insurance coverage?
Most dental insurance plans don’t require a referral for orthodontic benefits, but coverage always depends on your specific policy.
If you have questions about your insurance benefits for orthodontic treatment, please give us a call at (843) 556-2133 and we’ll be happy to review your benefits and explain your coverage clearly.
We’re proud to be an orthodontist who accepts dental insurance in Charleston. We’ll explain how dental insurance for braces or clear aligners works, and what your plan covers.
When should my child see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children have their first orthodontic checkup by age 7, whether they’re referred by your family dentist or not.
This doesn’t mean your child will start treatment right away. Many kids are simply monitored until the timing is right, and our orthodontists never suggest unnecessary treatment. This early visit gives us a chance to catch potential issues early, and develop a treatment plan to guide jaw growth if needed.
Why come directly to an orthodontist?
By booking directly with our orthodontic office in Charleston, you can:
- Address bite issues before they get worse
- Prevent the need for more complex treatment paths (like jaw surgery) in many cases
- Get a clear understanding of your treatment options sooner
- Start treatment at the right time for your smile and lifestyle
Orthodontists are trained to detect bite and alignment issues, not just apparent dental issues (like crooked teeth and crowded teeth.)
Your dentist can spot dental issues like crooked teeth, spaced teeth and crowded teeth, but we orthodontists are trained to detect bite and alignment issues, and complex conditions below the surface.
Schedule your free orthodontic consultation in Charleston.
We would love to see you at our Charleston orthodontic office! Our orthodontic office is located in West Ashley, at 1845 Savage Rd (29407), and we see many patients who live in West Ashley, Johns Island, James Island, Mount Pleasant, and the surrounding areas.
Whether you’ve been referred by your dentist or you’re taking the first step on your own, nothing should stand in the way of experiencing your best smile.
Book your complimentary consultation with us today and see why so many families in Charleston choose us for their orthodontic care.