Looking for recommendations for a good private dentist!

I could really use some advice here. I’ve finally decided I want to get braces to straighten out my front teeth—honestly, looking back, I probably should have done this years ago, but hey, better late than never, right? I'm 27 now, so I know I'm a little behind the curve. The thing is, my current dentist is pushing this idea of pulling six teeth to make everything fit. I haven't had my wisdom teeth removed yet, so I was wondering if there's any way to avoid such an extreme approach? Like, can I just pull the absolute bare minimum required? To be totally blunt, my dental health hasn't been perfect, and the thought of losing more teeth scares me—I really don't want to end up with a mouth full of implants or crowns when I'm still so young!
It feels like everyone is suggesting extractions, but surely there has to be a less drastic option out there for someone in my position?
Since I haven't dealt much with private orthodontists before, I'm pretty much flying blind here. Any recommendations or insights would be hugely appreciated. Thanks so much in advance! 🙂

Why bother with private clinics?! Seriously, listen to me... I tried going to a private dentist once—it was just easier since I was on maternity leave and didn't want to trek all the way back to my regular spot—but everything they fixed ended up falling apart, and man, did they charge an arm and a leg. Now, my actual dentist is fixing all those messes perfectly! She works over on Kurelov, right there first door on the left from the corner... Dr. Trutanić is the best. Even my mom tried three different private dentists and two through her insurance, and now she’s totally obsessed with her! She’s a bit older, sure, but she truly loves what she does and she’s incredible—at least I haven't had a single issue so far. I'm 28, and I even brought my 4-year-old daughter along just so she could get used to a dentist... she's just wonderful. If you happen to be in Washington, D.C. or nearby, definitely swing by!! Anything that isn't covered by insurance, she'll do for a fee, but it's way cheaper than those fancy private places, plus she actually takes the time to explain the difference in materials, quality, and cost... she's super honest because she's not just out for the money!

I think she’s talking about orthodontists—in certain cases, they might need to extract your premolars or even a couple of your canines to make room for the braces.

Anyway, props to you for being brave enough to go through with it; I got my braces put on when I was 28, and honestly, I don't regret it one bit. As for recommendations, I usually go to Colgate over near Times Square, but since you're looking for options, I'd suggest checking out a few local private orthodontists in your area. Since you're over 18, insurance doesn't always cover everything, so you'll want to see what different specialists have to say. Most places will give you a consultation and some advice without charging you a dime.

Linda Kern3, check your PMs.

jadefalcon32 said:Why bother with private clinics?! Seriously, listen to me... I tried going to a private dentist once—it was just easier since I was on maternity leave and didn't want to trek all the way back to my regular spot—but everything they fixed ended up falling apart, and man, did they charge an arm and a leg. Now, my actual dentist is fixing all those messes perfectly! She works over on Kurelov, right there first door on the left from the corner... Dr. Trutanić is the best. Even my mom tried three different private dentists and two through her insurance, and now she’s totally obsessed with her! She’s a bit older, sure, but she truly loves what she does and she’s incredible—at least I haven't had a single issue so far. I'm 28, and I even brought my 4-year-old daughter along just so she could get used to a dentist... she's just wonderful. If you happen to be in Washington, D.C. or nearby, definitely swing by!! Anything that isn't covered by insurance, she'll do for a fee, but it's way cheaper than those fancy private places, plus she actually takes the time to explain the difference in materials, quality, and cost... she's super honest because she's not just out for the money!

Can I get the number via DM?