We like to joke that Ben’s braces are worth more than either of our vehicles. Technically this is no longer true, since we upgraded our minivan this fall. But not by much: His braces cost around $3,000 -- so far -- while we paid around $4,500 for the van.
The second phase of tooth transformation will likely cost another $3,000 a couple of years from now, assuming we comply with his orthodontist‘s recommendation. Meanwhile, I find myself thinking: Why didn’t we get a second opinion on this expenditure?
The car dealer was willing to accept the fact that we wanted a mechanic to look over the van before we made a decision. Is there any reason an orthodontist wouldn‘t be willing to pit his or her advice against that of a would-be rival?
I’m embarrassed to say the thought never even occurred to me during our initial consultation. Unlike our vehicle-buying process, which was methodical and devoid of emotion, I was dodging all kinds of anxiety vibes that day.
An initial consultation with an orthodontist is usually free, but by the time they start taking X-rays and drawing up treatment plans, you're already in for several hundred dollars. So to start at square one with a second orthodontist would be fairly expensive.
You could ask to take copies of X-rays and the treatment plan to a second orthodontist, but then how do you know whether the second orthodontist isn't just trying to get your business?
Another option is orthodontic2ndopinion.com, which is run by a veteran Los Angeles orthodontist who will examine your X-rays and treatment plan and report back to you within 10 days, according to the web site. The cost: $175.
The orthodontist, Harry Aronowitz, DMD, gets a four-star rating from an L.A. doctor/dentist review site called doctoroogle.com, which notes that he is a member in good standing with the California State Dental Board.
You could also check with a dental school in your area, if you have one. If nothing else, ask your dentist what he or she thinks.
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