Monmouth County Braces Guide: How to Choose the Right Orthodontist for Your Smile
Shrewsbury, United States - December 8, 2025 / MHR Orthodontics /
Finding the best orthodontist for yourself or your child feels like a big decision. You want someone skilled, trustworthy, and convenient to your Shrewsbury, Red Bank, or Colts Neck home. With over 4,300 orthodontists practicing in the United States, the options can feel overwhelming. Here's what actually matters when choosing an orthodontist in Monmouth County.
Understanding What Makes an Orthodontist "the Best"
First things first: not all orthodontists are created equal, and there's a big difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist who offers braces.
An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed 2-3 years of additional training beyond dental school, focusing specifically on moving teeth and correcting jaw alignment. Think of it this way—your general dentist is like your primary care doctor, while an orthodontist is like a cardiologist who specializes in one specific area.
Here's something that might surprise you: a recent study found that 85% of people believe that any dentist who performs orthodontic treatment is an orthodontic specialist, and 64.2% didn't know that orthodontists complete more education than general dentists. That's a lot of confusion. When you're looking for braces in Monmouth County, make sure you're seeing an actual orthodontist, not just a dentist who dabbles in straightening teeth.
Check Their Credentials and Board Certification
Once you've confirmed they're a real orthodontist, the next step is checking their credentials. All orthodontists must be licensed to practice, but board certification takes things further.
The American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) is the only certifying board recognized by the American Dental Association. Board certification isn't required, but it's a strong indicator of excellence. To become board certified, an orthodontist must pass a 240-question written exam and complete a clinical examination demonstrating their knowledge, clinical skills, and judgment.
Currently, only 1 in 3 orthodontists have completed board certification. Dr. Martin Rabinovich at MHR Orthodontics in Shrewsbury is board certified by the ABO, which means he's voluntarily pursued additional testing to demonstrate his commitment to the highest standards of patient care. "Board certification represents a commitment to lifelong learning and staying current with the latest advances in orthodontics," says Dr. Rabinovich. "It's about showing patients that we're dedicated to giving them the best possible outcomes."
You can verify an orthodontist's board certification on the American Board of Orthodontics website. This takes about 30 seconds and gives you peace of mind.
Look at Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Online reviews tell you what really happens inside the office. But don't just look at the star rating—read what people actually say.
Look for specific phrases in reviews. Reviews mentioning "took time to explain things" indicate good time management and rapport with patients, especially important for younger patients who may need reassurance. When you see comments like "great experience" or "highly recommend," these are solid signs that the overall standard of care is high.
Pay attention to reviews that mention:
- How the staff treated them and their children
- Whether appointments ran on time
- How well the orthodontist explained treatment options
- The final results and whether they met expectations
- How the practice handled any complications or concerns
You'll find reviews on Google, Yelp, and practice websites. In Monmouth County, look for orthodontists who consistently get positive feedback from families in Tinton Falls, Eatontown, and Long Branch.
Evaluate Treatment Options and Technology
Orthodontics has come a long way from the old-school metal brackets your parents might remember. The orthodontics industry has grown to a $20 billion market in 2025, and much of that growth comes from advances in technology and treatment options.
A good orthodontist should offer multiple treatment options:
- Traditional metal braces (still the most effective for complex cases)
- Clear ceramic braces (less visible but just as effective)
- Invisalign or other clear aligners (removable and nearly invisible)
- Lingual braces (attached to the back of teeth)
MHR Orthodontics in Shrewsbury provides all these options, allowing families in Monmouth County to choose what works best for their lifestyle and goals. The practice uses digital scanning technology, which means no more goopy impressions—a huge relief for kids and adults who dread that part of the process.
Modern technology like 3D imaging and digital treatment planning allows orthodontists to show you exactly what your smile will look like before treatment even starts. This kind of technology isn't just cool—it leads to more precise treatment and often shorter treatment times.
Consider Office Atmosphere and Patient Care
Walking into an orthodontist's office should feel welcoming, not intimidating. The best orthodontists understand that many patients, especially children, feel nervous about dental appointments.
Pay attention to:
- How the staff greets you when you call or visit
- Whether the office feels clean and organized
- If the orthodontist takes time to answer your questions without rushing
- How they interact with younger patients
- Whether they explain treatment in terms you actually understand
Research shows that the two most frequent ways people find their orthodontist are through a recommendation from another dentist (54.2%) and their family's general dentist who offered orthodontic services. But personal experience matters too. Most practices offer free consultations—take advantage of these to get a feel for the office.
MHR Orthodontics in Shrewsbury is known for their hospitable, patient-focused approach. They understand that orthodontic treatment is a commitment, and they work to make every visit as comfortable and efficient as possible.
Review Payment Plans and Financial Flexibility
Let's talk about the part nobody likes but everyone needs to address: cost. According to the American Dental Association, comprehensive traditional metal braces cost between $4,500-$6,600. That's not pocket change for most families in Monmouth County.
Here's the good news: orthodontic practices have gotten much better at making treatment affordable. Most offer:
- In-house payment plans with no interest
- Flexible monthly payments (typically 12-24 months)
- Acceptance of dental insurance
- Options to use HSA/FSA funds
- Affordable down payments
Most in-house plans don't charge interest and allow payments to be customized based on your financial situation. This is a game-changer for families who need orthodontic care but can't pay thousands upfront.
MHR Orthodontics offers flexible, no-interest financing and works with most insurance plans. They'll handle the insurance paperwork and help you maximize your benefits. Their philosophy is simple: affordability shouldn't prevent anyone from getting the orthodontic care they need.
Many dental insurance plans cover orthodontic treatment for children under 18, though coverage varies significantly from plan to plan. Always ask about total treatment costs upfront, including consultations, braces or aligners, follow-up visits, retainers, and any potential emergency visits.
Location and Convenience Matter
Treatment typically lasts 18-24 months, with appointments every 4-8 weeks. That's a lot of trips to the orthodontist. Choosing someone conveniently located near your home in Rumson, Red Bank, or Shrewsbury saves you time and stress.
Consider:
- How far you'll need to drive for regular appointments
- Whether appointment times work with your schedule
- If they offer early morning or after-school appointments for kids
- Parking availability
- How they handle emergency situations
MHR Orthodontics is centrally located in Shrewsbury, making it accessible for families throughout Monmouth County. Their scheduling flexibility means you can find appointment times that work around school and work commitments.
Making Your Decision
Choosing the right orthodontist comes down to finding someone who combines expertise, modern technology, excellent patient care, and financial flexibility. Start with recommendations from your dentist or friends, then schedule consultations with 2-3 orthodontists to compare.
During consultations, ask questions:
- Are you board certified?
- What treatment options do you recommend for my specific case?
- What's the estimated treatment time and total cost?
- What payment plans do you offer?
- What happens if I have an emergency or concern between appointments?
Trust your gut. The best orthodontist for you is someone who makes you feel heard, answers your questions thoroughly, and creates a treatment plan that fits your goals and budget.
For families in Monmouth County, MHR Orthodontics provides the combination of specialized expertise, modern treatment options, and patient-focused care that makes orthodontic treatment a positive experience. Dr. Rabinovich and his team have built their practice on the principle that everyone deserves access to quality orthodontic care, regardless of their financial situation.
Your smile is worth the time it takes to find the right orthodontist. With board certification, positive patient reviews, modern technology, and flexible payment options, you'll be set up for success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist who offers braces?
An orthodontist has completed 2-3 years of specialized training beyond dental school, focusing exclusively on moving teeth and correcting jaw alignment. Studies show that most patients don't realize dentists can't be called orthodontists without separate training from an accredited residency program. Orthodontists are specialists who focus solely on straightening teeth and correcting bites.
How do I know if an orthodontist is board certified?
You can verify board certification on the American Board of Orthodontics website. Board certification requires passing a comprehensive written examination and clinical examination demonstrating knowledge, skills, and judgment. Only about one in three orthodontists pursue this voluntary certification.
Do most dental insurance plans cover braces?
Coverage varies significantly. Children under 18 are more likely to have braces covered than adults. Many plans cover 25-50% of treatment costs up to a lifetime maximum, typically between $1,000-$3,000. Check with your specific plan provider and ask the orthodontist's office to verify your benefits.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Most treatment takes 18-24 months, though this varies based on the complexity of your case. Orthodontic patient numbers have reached an all-time high in 2024, with the average orthodontist treating 696 patients. Your orthodontist will give you a specific timeline during your consultation based on your individual needs.
Can I use a payment plan for braces?
Yes. Most orthodontic practices offer in-house payment plans with a down payment followed by 12-24 monthly installments, often interest-free. Many also accept FSA/HSA funds and work with third-party financing companies. Ask about all available options during your consultation.
Are clear aligners as effective as traditional braces?
It depends on your specific case. Clear aligners work well for mild to moderate alignment issues, while traditional braces remain the most effective option for complex cases involving significant bite corrections or jaw alignment issues. An experienced orthodontist can recommend the best option for your situation during your consultation.
Ready to find your perfect orthodontist in Monmouth County? MHR Orthodontics offers complimentary consultations where you can meet Dr. Rabinovich, learn about treatment options, and discuss flexible payment plans. Call their Shrewsbury office today to schedule your visit.
Contact Information:
MHR Orthodontics
20 White Rd Suite F, Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
United States
Dr Martin Rabinovich
https://mhrortho.com/
