1136
S Delano Ct b202,
(312) 766-0995
Patient Forms
Pay OnlineModern dentistry offers a number of ways to reposition teeth, which makes some people believe that traditional braces are outdated. But that is far from the truth! This time-tested method for straightening teeth is still helping countless individuals to a achieve healthier, more attractive smile. Plus, modern advancements in materials and production techniques mean that traditional braces are more comfortable and subtle than ever before. Let’s discuss how your orthodontist in South Loop can use traditional braces to enable you or your child to enjoy all the benefits of well-aligned teeth.
Traditional Braces – Chicago, IL
Effective, Time-Tested Orthodontic Treatment
Why Choose Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics for Traditional Braces?
- On-staff, board-certified orthodontist
- Treatment for adults, teens, and kids
- Reliable, effective teeth straightening
How Traditional Braces Work
Traditional braces consist of a series of brackets and wires. Dr. Dale our on-staff orthodontist, attach the brackets to the teeth, then use wires to connect them. Each time you visit our team for checkups throughout your treatment period, our doctors will adjust the wires. The constant pressure on the teeth gently moves them into their proper positions. Sometimes, the braces work alongside other orthodontic appliances to ensure that patients achieve a well-aligned bite and fully functional mouth.
The total treatment time with braces for the teeth to reach their proper places varies from patient to patient. After you get your braces removed, it’s important that you wear a retainer so your teeth don’t drift back out of place. At first, you’ll need to wear the retainer full-time. As time passes, however, you may be able to graduate to wearing it just a few nights each week.
Advantages of Traditional Braces
Advantages of Traditional Braces
- Since they are attached to your teeth all the time, you won’t have to worry about losing them or forgetting to wear them.
- They are one of the most affordable orthodontic treatments. Many dental insurance policies cover them.
- You can pick from a wide variety of colors. For adult braces in South Loop, you might choose discreet colors, while kids may love to express themselves with bright brackets.
What to Expect With Traditional Braces
Here are a few notes on what you can expect throughout your treatment period:
- You’ll need to make a few dietary adjustments. It’s recommended that you avoid extremely hard or sticky foods, as well as anything that could get stuck in the braces.
- Oral hygiene is key. We’ll provide you with all the tools and knowledge you need to keep your mouth clean throughout your treatment so you can avoid dental decay and bad breath.
- If you play sports, you’ll need to wear a guard to protect your braces while you’re on the field or court
- Your mouth might be a little sore each time you get your braces adjusted. Eating soft foods, sipping cold water, and using OTC pain medications can help with any discomfort.
Understanding the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment and Braces
To our team here at Chicago Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, each patient’s needs are unique. We offer a customized approach that fits your lifestyle, cosmetic demands, and budget in order to get you high quality results in as efficient a timeframe as possible. We especially pride ourselves in going above-and-beyond to deliver extremely high value, without extra charges for retainers, whitening, or other cosmetic tooth and gum reshaping that are needed to take your smile to the next level. We don’t offer a one-size-fits-all quote for traditional braces treatment, and treatment times are thoughtfully quoted and are taken seriously. To get a customized treatment plan, you’ll need to schedule a complimentary 45 minute consultation appointment where we can talk with you one-on-one. During this visit, we’ll take photos and then we’ll look at your teeth together, and ultimately get your input before quoting the cost of treatment.
Factors that Affect the Cost of Braces
When determining the cost of braces treatment, we mostly consider two factors: time and tools. The time required to achieve your desired results is mostly based on the severity of the problem, and your biology. We can treat almost any problem with almost any appliance, but some will work more efficiently for some problems over others. We value your choice of 1) braces in the front of the teeth (clear or metal - colors or none), 2) clear removable aligners, or 3) braces behind the teeth, as well as any other special techniques that we agree on to get you those results.
The more work to be done to properly align the teeth, the more braces treatment will cost. During your consultation after we’ve had the chance to review your case and put together a treatment plan, we can give you an accurate estimate of the associated cost and give options—both in the types of treatments and in payment options.
Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces?
Although plans may differ in the amount of coverage, most dental insurances include orthodontic treatment benefits, which can be applied to any type of treatment you choose. When you meet with us for your consultation, we’ll closely look at your policy, make sure you know what to expect, and get you the most savings possible. We are proud to be in-network with many popular insurance companies like Delta Dental Premier, Metlife, and more, which means you’re likely to save a significant amount on your out-of-pocket costs for braces.
Options for Making Braces Affordable
Although insurance can go a long way to reducing your costs for traditional braces, our team may be able to help you even further. As part of your consultation, we can talk about your financial options and work with you to find an interest-free payment plan that everyone can agree on.
Traditional Braces FAQs
Although you may have some familiarity with traditional braces, perhaps you still have questions about them, either for yourself or for your child. We want you to understand everything you should know and to feel completely confident moving forward with treatment. Although we can answer your questions during a consultation with one of our experienced, compassionate orthodontists in South Loop, we’re happy to address some common inquiries here. Please see our responses below for explanations to questions we have received from our patients. If you have other concerns that aren’t discussed below, feel free to contact our office and schedule an appointment!
Why Should I Straighten My Teeth?
Many think of a straight smile as a purely cosmetic luxury—something nice to have. However, properly aligned teeth are more than just visually pleasing. Straighter teeth are easier to keep clean. When your upper and lower teeth match up correctly, your teeth are able to bite and chew your food more efficiently. A perfect bite also prevents excessive wear on certain teeth, helping them stay strong for much longer. In addition, having straight teeth can help you feel less self-conscious about showing your smile more often. You’ll not only look happier but also feel happier and more confident in photos or when you meet someone new.
Can I Get Braces if I’m an Adult?
Absolutely! Although many people associate braces with children or teens, adults can certainly benefit from getting braces as well, though most adults prefer the more discreet option of clear ceramic braces. It’s never too late to correct misaligned teeth, and this reliable solution works even in severe cases. When you come in for your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals, needs, and budget, and we’ll consider all your options including removable Clear Aligners and braces behind the teeth. By the end of this appointment, we’ll recommend the solution that can give you the results you’re looking for.
Do Braces Hurt?
When you first get braces, you will likely need a few days to acclimate to the feeling of the braces in your mouth. Your cheeks may become slightly irritated at first, but it usually isn’t a problem after a few days, and can be made immediately more comfortable with the use of orthodontic comfort wax. You may experience some discomfort in your teeth initially when your braces are placed or adjusted. However, this soreness is actually a good sign! It means your teeth are shifting according to plan. Just remember that any discomfort should wear off within a couple of days. To help you through these days, you should eat soft foods and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
What Do I Do if I Break a Bracket or Have an Orthodontic Emergency?
Orthodontic emergencies are very rare. Unlike a broken tooth or lost restoration, a loose bracket does not usually need to be treated immediately, but we always try to accommodate our patients if you are in discomfort. Our team will do everything we can to see you right away if needed, and we’ll provide guidance for what you should do in the meantime. For pokey orthodontic wires, we recommend placing some orthodontic comfort wax over the pokey spot, and we can usually accommodate patients the same or next day to resolve the issue.
Are Braces Right for You?
Whether you’re considering braces for yourself or your child, you’ll need to meet with Dr. Dale. He can review treatment options and determine if you are a good candidate for traditional braces. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Dale.
