Dentist vs Orthodontist: What's the Difference?

There is a question most people seem to wonder when it comes to braces or invisalign. "Can my dentist give me braces or Invisalign?" The answer is a definite big NO! There is a major difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. At McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics in Kenilworth, IL, we have a tradition of creating great smiles by providing unparalleled orthodontic health care. Dr. Mart McClellan, Dr.Tim Sagun and our team strive to accommodate the needs of our patients and create a positive orthodontic experience.

An Orthodontist specializes in orthodontic treatment beyond the basic dental health care. The most common being, specialists in straightening teeth.

Our office is conveniently located to serve the communities surrounding Kenilworth, such as Wilmette, Winnetka and Glencoe, IL. Call us today for your initial orthodontic consultation! We look forward to meeting you and working with you as we continue our tradition of creating the North Shore’s best smiles!

Dental Wax

When it comes to braces, your first few days may be uncomfortable. It may even feel as if your braces are sticking out. Your gums may be sore and tender, but that does not have to stop you from living your life.

An important item to use for relief is dental wax. Dental wax is “a soft, harmless gum protector for children and adults with braces that can be used in a pinch to cover brackets and protruding wires with a smooth surface,” according to Colgate. Dental wax can provide relief when a wire breaks and pokes out. Just add some dental wax on your gums and can help prevent pain while your wait for your next appointment.

Dental wax is completely safe.

Step 1: Be sure you have dental wax, you can ask us for recommendations on which we feel is best.
Step 2: Wash your hands.
Step 3: Brush your teeth, where you want to apply the dental wax
Step 4: Pinch off a piece of wax about the size of a small pea
Step 5: Squeeze until it softens and roll it into a ball, then flatten the ball slightly
Step 6: Gently push the wax onto the problem area of the braces

If you have any questions over dental wax, or any other orthodontic questions, please feel free to call us at (847) 251-6228

Sore Mouth? Here are 2 Smoothie Recipes:

Congratulations on getting braces! Your on your way to a healthier beautiful smile. At first you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! The discomfort and soreness you are feeling is perfectly normal. Your teeth may be tender to biting pressures, which can make it tough to chew and eat solid food. Here are 2 delicious smoothie recipes that are delicious, healthy and filling.

1. Delicious Red Fruits and Oats Smoothie

This delicious smoothie will make it easy for you to consume, especially in your first few days after getting braces. The added oats, will fill you up.

• 1 cup sliced strawberries
• 1 sliced banana
• 1/4 cup raw almonds
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup

2. Peanut Butter, Banana and Flax Smoothie

This delicious combination will have you feeling full of creamy goodness. The yogurt and peanut butter will have you feeling full and the honey combined with bananas will leave you craving for more.

• 1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla fat-free yogurt
• 2 tablespoons ground golden flaxseed
• 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ripe banana, sliced