Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Blog

Getting braces is something many people dread and avoid. Even though they want to achieve a straighter smile, they don’t want to commit to a year or more of wearing visible brackets and wires. Fortunately, metal braces aren’t your only option. Invisalign uses a series of clear aligners to slowly shift the teeth into their new locations. The best part is – it is nearly invisible! Here’s what the typical Invisalign treatment looks like – start to finish.

While traditional metal braces are a tried-and-true way to achieve a straighter smile, many prospective patients are hesitant to commit to a treatment that involves conspicuous and irremovable metal oral appliances and irksome dietary restrictions. Luckily, today’s orthodontists can often realign a smile using removable clear aligners. While it’s great to be able to take them out, you’ll need to wear your clear aligners for at least 22 hours a day to keep your treatment on track. Here are a few tips to help you make sure you’re wearing your aligners enough.

If you’re dreaming of having a straighter smile but don’t want to have bulky brackets permanently bonded to your teeth, then you could probably benefit from Invisalign. This alternative to traditional braces relies on clear aligners that fit snuggly over your pearly whites to shift them into their ideal places. It has gained popularity over the years because it’s more discrete than the tried-and-true method and patients feel less self-conscious as a result.

When it comes to dental treatments, however, it’s important to know what’s involved so you can make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn about 3 things you should know before getting Invisalign!

Though fluoridation of the water supply is considered one of the greatest advances for public health of the last century, many people view this naturally occurring mineral with suspicion. While fluoridated water is proven to save communities vast amounts of money by preventing cavities, some have concerns about the effects of exposing younger children to too much fluoride. Here’s why fluoridated water is perfectly safe for children of any age.

Many children deal with teeth sensitivity that can get in the way of eating or proper oral hygiene. To make matters worse, the discomfort it can cause during brushing or when consuming hot or cold foods or drinks can lead children to exhibit irritability, mood swings, or dietary restrictions. Here’s some information about what causes dental sensitivity in children as well as a few tips for preventing the problem and treating it when it happens.

When you go shopping for gifts for your kids, you probably want to buy something that is practical. At the same time, you want to choose something that your kids will enjoy. In many cases, items that support oral health fit both of those criteria. They are fun and useful! What are some specific items that you can buy for your young ones? Here are a few helpful ideas:

The Tooth Fairy has served children for generations by leaving them a small gift for tucking their lost baby teeth under their pillows. This beloved tradition is a great way to keep children excited about growing up and help them understand the importance of proper oral care. If your child has recently lost a baby tooth, here are a few ways to help them welcome this benevolent pixie.

Just because you have braces doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to enjoy all of your favorite Halloween sweets. Although the metal brackets and wires helping to straighten your smile can break or become dislodged by eating certain treats, like taffy and hard candies, undergoing treatment doesn’t automatically mean you won’t be able to enjoy them at all. Read on to learn what Halloween candy you can still eat with your braces and how you can protect them.

Few things are more precious than witnessing your child’s first tooth emerging from their gums. As their gummy smile transforms into baby teeth, it’s never too soon to introduce them to a dentist. Despite the temporary nature of baby teeth, they play a crucial role in your child’s oral health and development. Regular checkups enable early detection, ensuring the well-being of your child’s mouth. Here’s why it’s important for them to visit the dentist every six months, even if they have just a few teeth.

Even if you enjoy going to the dentist, as soon as they whip out a term like “interproximal reduction” you might do a double take. Despite its confusing name, the procedure is actually simple and pain-free. Depending on your situation, it could also be necessary to preserve the future of your oral health.

Continue reading to learn more about interproximal reduction and how it can help you achieve a straighter, healthier smile.