Thursday, December 16, 2021

How to Schedule an Orthodontic Appointment

If you are trying to schedule your initial appointment with McClellan Orthodontics but are not sure about the specifics, such as how to request an appointment or exactly what you need to be seen for, don’t worry…these are common concerns that many of our patients share. At McClellan Orthodontics, we want to make scheduling an appointment with our Kenilworth office as simple as can be.

Visiting our office should be done anytime you have a concern or issue with the placement of your teeth, jaw, or general alignment within your mouth. Whether you need to schedule an appointment for braces, a retainer, or other orthodontic issues, Dr. Mart McClellan and his team will investigate any abnormalities that you or your dentist may have noticed to give a better vision for the future of your teeth.

At McClellan Orthodontics, we have a tradition of creating great smiles by providing unparalleled orthodontic health care. We strive to accommodate the needs of our patients and create a positive orthodontic experience. McClellan Orthodontics has been a respected provider of orthodontic care in our community for over 65 years and is looking forward to educating you on your best options for creating your new smile.

When it comes to scheduling an appointment at McClellan Orthodontics, you have a few options.

Call Our Office. Give us a call and discuss how to set up an appointment with Dr. McClellan. Calling our Kenilworth office is an effortless way to find a time that works with your schedule.

Request Online. Requesting an orthodontic appointment online via our website is another easy way to fit an appointment into your schedule. Simply fill out the form on our Request an Appointment page and one of our team members will contact you to finalize and confirm your appointment.

Stop By. If you are in the Kenilworth, Illinois area, stop in and set up your appointment in person. You can get a feel for the office and ask any questions you may have about the appointment that you are requesting to schedule.

Always remember…you are never too old for orthodontic treatment. Dr. McClellan is an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. He possesses the skills and experience needed to give you your best smile. Visit our office today.

 

Wednesday, December 1, 2021

Is Pain in Your Jaw Giving You a Headache?

As a Certified Specialist in Orthodontics, Dr. Mart McClellan doesn’t just make straight teeth, he also deals with the bite as a whole…including the jaw. If you touch your face right in front of your ears while opening and closing your jaw, you’ll feel your temporomandibular joints at work.

The temporomandibular joints are the 2 joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull. More specifically, they are the joints that slide and rotate in front of each ear. The TMJs are among the most complex joints in the body. These joints, along with a few muscles, allow the mandible to move up and down, side to side, and forward and back. When the mandible and the joints are properly aligned, actions such as chewing, talking, yawning, and swallowing, can take place smoothly and without issue. However, when these structures are not aligned several problems may occur.

While people often refer to problems with the temporomandibular joints as TMJ, that’s the name for the joints themselves and TMJ pain is a TMJ disorder and part of a larger category of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). TMD involves the temporomandibular joint or its associated structures, such as the discs, muscles, cartilage, and ligaments.

In many cases, the actual cause of TMD may not be clear. Sometimes the main cause is excessive strain on the jaw joints and the muscle group that controls chewing, swallowing, and speech. This strain may be a result of habitual, involuntary clenching or grinding of the teeth. But trauma to the jaw, the head, or the neck may cause TMD.

The most common TMD symptoms include:

  • Jaw discomfort or soreness 
  • Headaches 
  • Clicking or popping of the jaw 
  • Locking of the jaw 
  • Limited mouth motions 
  • Clenching or grinding of the teeth

Left untreated, TMD can lead to inflammation, swelling, or chronic pain. It can also contribute to progressive dental problems, such as premature tooth wear and periodontal disease.

If you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms associated with TMD, give our office a call to receive a proper diagnosis and the appropriate treatment from experienced orthodontist like Dr. McClellan.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

Your Orthodontic Treatment Options

A variety of orthodontic options exist today for people looking into getting braces. From traditional silver braces to clear aligners, it can be a challenge to decide which choice is the best. At McClellan Orthodontics, we know about all of the treatment options on the market, and which is the best option for your specific orthodontic problem.

Silver Braces - These are the most common type of braces. Silver braces are made of sleek surgical steel and titanium and are comfortable to wear. Silver braces are bonded to the teeth and connected with a metal archwire. The wire is brought into place with tiny elastic bands. They give Dr. McClellan the control he needs to move the teeth in small increments at a time. Silver braces require periodic tightening every 4-6 weeks. The steady pressure will gradually straighten your teeth and align your jaw over time. Silver braces can correct a wide variety of issues, including jaw problems, crooked teeth, and bite misalignments. Silver braces are a proven method for getting a lifelong, healthy bite.

Ceramic Braces - These tooth-colored braces are less visible than silver braces. They are comprised of the ceramic brackets, which are typically more rounded than metal brackets, metal archwires colored to blend in with your natural smile, and elastic bands to help pull your teeth into correct alignment over time. Ceramic braces are like silver braces in their application, duration of treatment, and removal but offer a more discreet appearance to patients who want to avoid noticeable silver braces. Ceramic braces are used to correct the same dental issues as metal braces and invisible aligners. Since ceramic braces are designed to blend seamlessly into your smile, Dr. McClellan will select the perfect shade to match your natural tooth color. For those with naturally whiter teeth, a clear ceramic is used to render the brackets almost invisible. Those with darker tooth shades have the option to select colored ceramic matched to their teeth for best aesthetic results. The metal archwire is similarly colored to complement your teeth, and the elastic bands are typically clear.

Clear Aligners - Unlike silver and ceramic braces, clear aligners, like Invisalign, use clear trays to help you achieve a straight smile. Because the aligner trays are clear, they are practically invisible to those around you. The clear aligner trays are removable, which means that when you need to take them out, you can. It also means that you can continue to take care of your teeth normally and continue to eat the wonderful foods you love. Typically, clear aligners work faster than traditional braces, meaning that you can effectively straighten your teeth faster. Each set of aligner trays are designed to fit your mouth and your teeth comfortably. Clear aligners have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.

Which orthodontic treatment option is right for you?

Dr. McClellan uses of the full range of orthodontic appliances to get you a great outcome in the shortest possible amount of time. Based on his specialty education in orthodontics and clinical experience, he will recommend the treatment option he believes is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.

Book an initial consultation with McClellan Orthodontics to talk about your options regarding orthodontic treatment. We look forward to speaking with you!

 

 

Thursday, November 4, 2021

Early Orthodontic Treatment

Timing is everything…especially when it comes to your child’s orthodontic treatment. “Early” treatment, also called “interceptive” treatment, means treatment that is performed while some baby teeth are still present.

Early intervention can make a dramatic impact on establishing the proper way the teeth move against each other during function. For each patient, a healthy bite is paramount for dental treatment success. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that your child’s first check-up with an orthodontist be performed when an orthodontic problem is first recognized, but no later than age 7. By age 7 your child has enough permanent teeth for Dr. McClellan to evaluate the developing teeth and the jaws.

Early intervention is one of the most rewarding treatment options that we offer to our patients. An early exam allows us to determine how and when a child's jaw and/or dental problems should be corrected for optimal results. There are generally three outcomes of an early exam:

  1. No treatment is expected to be necessary.
  2. Treatment may be needed in the future, so the child will be followed periodically while the face and jaws continue to grow. 
  3. There is a problem that lends itself to early treatment.

While there are many orthodontic problems that are best treated after all permanent teeth have come in, early treatment can be in your child’s best interests if their problem is one that could become more serious over time. The major advantage of early treatment is to maximize the opportunity to accomplish the ideal healthy, functional, aesthetic, and comfortable results that will remain stable throughout your child’s life. In some cases, early treatment prevents adult tooth extractions or major jaw surgery.

Early Treatment may be recommended if your child has any of the following orthodontic issues:

  • Underbite
  • Crossbite 
  • Crowded Teeth 
  • Excessively Spaced Teeth 
  • Extra or Missing Teeth 
  • Thumb or Finger Sucking that is Affecting the Teeth or Jaw Growth

Early orthodontic treatment can take many forms. Dr. McClellan may prescribe a fixed or removable appliance to move teeth, change the position of the jaw, or hold teeth in place in order. Regardless of how treatment goals are reached, the bottom line is that some orthodontic problems may be easier to correct if they are found and treated early. Waiting until all the permanent teeth have come in, or until facial growth is complete, may make correction of some problems more difficult.

To give your child the best opportunity for a healthy, beautiful smile, visit McClellan Orthodontics today. No referral needed! Our office provides an initial consultation at no cost and with no obligation.

When you choose McClellan Orthodontics for your child’s orthodontic treatment, you can be assured that you have selected a specialist in orthodontics. Dr. McClellan and his team possess the skills and experience needed to give your child their best smile. Visit our website to learn more.

 

 

Monday, October 25, 2021

What Are Clear Aligners?

At McClellan Orthodontics, we offer the latest in orthodontic treatment, including clear aligners, like Invisalign!

What are Clear Aligners? Invisalign clear aligners are an orthodontic treatment option that straightens your teeth without the use of metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear aligners that cover your teeth and gently push them into the proper position over time. Because they are clear, they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces.

What are Invisalign Clear Aligners Made of? Invisalign clearaligners are made of a patented thermoplastic material called SmartTrack. Invisalign clear aligners are FDA-approved and contain no BPA, BPS, latex, or gluten. They are thin, clear, and fit snugly over your teeth, making them virtually invisible.

How Long does Invisalign Clear Aligner Treatment Take? Each patient’s orthodontic problem is unique, and each patient responds to treatment differently, so there is no universal answer for how long your clear aligner treatment will take. In general, the total treatment time for Invisalign clear aligners can be less than a year.

How Do Invisalign Clear Aligners Work? You will wear your aligners all day, every day, except when you eat, floss, and brush your teeth.  Because Invisalign clear aligners are removable, you will be able to briefly remove them any time you need to throughout the day. You will wear each set of aligners for two weeks and then switch to the next set of aligners. Every six weeks or so, you will have an appointment in our office to check your aligners and the progress of your treatment. These checkups also help Dr. McClellan determine if any adjustments need to be made to the aligners or to your treatment plan.

Are Invisalign Clear Aligners Expensive? As clear aligners have become more popular over the years, they have also become more affordable. Invisalign aligners tend to cost about as much as traditional braces; however, the cost of your orthodontic treatment will vary depending on your individual needs and treatment plan.

If you would like to learn more about how Invisalign clear aligners can transform your smile, give McClellan Orthodontics a call today and schedule a complimentary consultation. Dr. McClellan will assess your smile to determine if Invisalign clear aligners are right for you.

 

Thursday, October 7, 2021

Trust an Orthodontist with your Smile

McClellan Orthodontics is proud to provide exceptional orthodontic care to patients of all ages. Dr. McClellan is highly trained and experienced in identifying and correcting a wide variety of orthodontic issues, from crooked teeth to misaligned jaws. 

Did you know that Orthodontists and Dentists are not interchangeable? There are significant differences between orthodontists and dentists that you should be aware of in order to make an informed decision regarding orthodontic care for you and your family.

Orthodontists and dentists both help patients improve their oral health, but in different ways. Dentistry is a broad medical specialty that deals with the teeth, gum, nerves, and jaw, while orthodontics is a specialty within dentistry that focuses on correcting bites. All orthodontists are dentists, but most dentists are not properly trained orthodontists.

Orthodontists and Dentists both begin their careers with dental school, but once they graduate, their paths go in separate directions. Dentists are free to begin practicing immediately after graduating from dental school, but orthodontists must complete an additional 2-3 years of education, training, and supervision. During this time, orthodontists learn a great deal about identifying and treating the misalignment of teeth and jaws by studying the growth and maturation of the mouth and learning special biomechanical techniques to successfully move the teeth using braces, aligners, and other appliances.

Most people aren’t aware of how much work goes into becoming an orthodontist! While there are exceptions to almost every rule, most general dentists don’t possess the level of education and skills a certified orthodontist, like Dr. McClellan has.

The benefits of having an orthodontist work on your teeth goes beyond just having a beautiful smile. Well-aligned teeth make it possible to bite, chew and speak effectively. Not everyone needs to have orthodontic treatment, but it may be required if you have any of the following issues:

Overbites: When your front teeth stick out over your lower teeth, you have an overbite.

Underbites: When lower teeth extend too far forward and your top teeth are too far back, you have an underbite.

Crossbites: When the upper teeth do not come down in front of the lower teeth properly, it creates an improper bite, or crossbite.

Spacing issues: These include gaps or spaces between your teeth.

Crowding: When there are too many teeth for a limited amount of space, you can experience crowding.

Misplaced Midlines: This occurs when the centers of your upper and lower teeth are not aligned.

Wondering if you should see an orthodontic expert to improve your smile?

You have every right to choose the healthcare provider you feel most comfortable with, but when it comes to your smile, it’s worth considering an orthodontist with specialized training. Give McClellan Orthodontics a call today.

Did you know?

Dr. McClellan is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontists, an achievement only 35% of orthodontists attain.

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Whiten Your Teeth

McClellan Orthodontics

The feeling you have after getting your braces removed is the absolute best! 

Unfortunately, some people get their braces off and are disappointed by the color of their teeth. From toothpaste to whitening trays…there are many options for whitening your teeth after your braces have been removed.

Whitening Toothpaste – Whitening toothpastes are different from regular toothpastes as they includes more abrasive ingredients to scrub the surface of the teeth to remove surface stains. Whitening toothpastes are the least expensive and most easily accessible option for brightening your smile. However, it can take several weeks to begin to see results. 

At-home Whitening Kits – At-home whitening kits like Crest Whitestrips are relatively effective and can help whiten your teeth after braces. At-home whitening kits are able remove stains from under the tooth surface with bleaching agents that contain hydrogen peroxide. The bleaching agent reacts with the internal aspect of your tooth, mixing with the discolored areas and breaking them apart, giving your teeth a noticeably whiter appearance.

Professional Teeth Whitening – If you have serious stains or white spots on your teeth after your braces have been removed, a professional whitening treatment is the best choice. With professional whitening, you’ll be able to quickly reverse years of staining in a single appointment.

If you or a member of your family has just completed orthodontic treatment and are looking for teeth whitening options in Kenilworth, IL, the team at McClellan Orthodontics can help answer any questions you may have. Give our office a call today! 

 

Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Handling Orthodontic Issues at Home

Even though you are careful, you may occasionally damage your braces or orthodontic appliance. While there are steps you can take to temporarily fix or alleviate discomfort and prevent additional damage, you should always notify our office if you have any issues or concerns. 

At McClellan Orthodontics, we want our patients to be informed of problems that may occur, and understand how to solve them until it is possible to return to our office. With the supplies listed below, you will be prepared to handle the most common orthodontic issues at home.

  • Orthodontic wax
  • Dental floss 
  • Tweezers
  • Q-tips 
  • Salt
  • Non-prescription pain reliever (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) 
  • Topical Anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel)

Below are some typical orthodontic issues and how you can solve them:

Discomfort - It’s normal to have some initial discomfort during orthodontic treatment as your teeth move. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water and over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may alleviate this discomfort.  If the discomfort lasts longer than a couple days, be sure to call our office.

Mouth Sores - Some patients are susceptible to episodes of mouth sores. While braces do not cause these sores, they may be exacerbated by an irritation from your braces. Mouth sores are not an emergency, but they can be very uncomfortable. Prompt relief may be achieved by applying a small amount of topical anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel) directly to the ulcerated surface using a cotton swab. 

Irritation - Sometimes braces or wires can be irritating to your mouth, especially when eating. A small amount of orthodontic wax makes an excellent buffer between the metal bracket and your mouth. Simply pinch off a small piece of wax and roll it into a ball the size of a small pea. Flatten the ball and place it completely over the area of the bracket causing irritation. 

Protruding Wire - Occasionally the end of a wire will work itself out of place and can irritate your mouth. Use a Q-tip or clean tweezer and try to push the wire so that it is flat against the tooth. If the wire cannot be moved into a comfortable position, cover it with wax.

There will be normal, day-to-day discomfort associated with wearing braces, if you have any questions about your orthodontic treatment, or if you think you may have a true orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to call our Kenilworth orthodonticoffice…We can help!

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Can You Afford Invisalign?

When it comes to orthodontic treatment options, many people have a tough time deciding between getting Invisalign or traditional braces. Ultimately, every patient is different and the best option comes down to your lifestyle, your preferences, and your orthodontic needs. If you want a treatment option that doesn’t draw attention to the fact that you’re straightening your teeth, Invisalign is the clear choice for you. But can you actually afford Invisalign treatment?

There are a number of factors that contribute to the amount you might pay Invisalign. Factors include:

1. The Severity of Your Orthodontic Problem - Invisalign can treat almost the entire spectrum of teeth and jaw misalignments. However, more acute conditions take more time and supplies to correct. Therefore, a severe orthodontic problem might end up with higher overall costs.

2. Insurance - When Invisalign was first introduced, it wasn’t covered by insurance companies, making it a very expensive option for anyone who wanted it. Today, it is covered by a wide variety of companies and plans.

3. Patient Compliance - Invisalign’s efficacy depends almost entirely on whether or not you actually wears your aligners. The treatment itself recommends that the aligners be worn all day, every day. The you cannot leave your Invisalign trays in because of an activity like playing a sport or playing an instrument, your teeth are not going to move as quickly. This means that your treatment time will take longer than originally planned, which could make your entire treatment more expensive.

At McClellan Orthodontics, the cost of any orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign, depends on the severity of the patient’s problem. In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established this financial policy:

  • If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount. 
  • To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months. 
  • We offer a unique program where we create a payment slider. You pick the down payment and you pick how many payments you would like to make.

Effective for a wide range of smiles. The Invisalign system has been successful in giving hundreds of thousands of amazing smiles to both teens and adults. While the cost of Invisalign is covered by most insurance companies, if cost is a concern, we can provide you with estimates based on your exact treatment plan.

Not everyone is a candidate for the Invisalign aligner system. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. McClellan to see if the Invisalign system is right for you.

 

 

Friday, August 6, 2021

More Than a Pretty Smile

McClellan Orthodontics

The benefit of straight teeth is not only for aesthetics.

Straight teeth are easier to clean. When teeth are rotated and overlapped, more nooks and crannies exist where plaque bacteria can build up. Even with proper brushing and flossing, some areas may be difficult to clean and will have a higher risk of forming a cavity. Straighter teeth allow for easier cleaning and lower cavity risk.

Because misaligned teeth are more difficult to keep clean, the build-up of plaque bacteria can cause gum inflammation that may potentially lead to gingivitis and periodontitis. Also, gum recession can occur in areas with crowding due to difficulty with brushing.

Even if your teeth appear straight, there can be a problem with your bite. Added wear of teeth, chipping of teeth, and teeth grinding are very common problems when an improper bite is present. Jawbone and joint problems can also develop, leading to breakdown of the bones that support your teeth as well as TMJ pain, headaches, and migraines.

When teeth are crooked or the bite is off, it can change the shape of the face. Teeth with extreme overbite can make the lower jaw and chin look unpronounced, and underbite can make the chin look overly pronounced.

The benefits of straight teeth and jaw alignment are important to your overall well-being. If you are interested in straightening your teeth or have any questions about your options, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment. At McClellan Orthodontics, our team can develop a plan to ensure your teeth are not only straight, but a healthy bite is achieved.

 

 

Tuesday, July 27, 2021

Correct Your Bad Bite

McClellan Orthodontics

A bad bite is when the upper teeth do not properly meet the lower teeth when you bite down. There are many issues that a bad bite can cause…for example, a bad bite can cause pain while chewing and even damage your teeth over time. Poorly aligned teeth can cause jaw pain. The jaw may also click or pop. Sometimes, a bad bite can cause speech problems because the jaw and teeth cannot properly form words.

3 Common Bite Problems Treated by Dr. McClellan

1. Crossbite - A crossbite occurs when the upper teeth fit inside of lower teeth. This orthodontic problem can be caused by misalignment of teeth or a misalignment of the bone and can affect a single tooth or groups of teeth. Your jaw may shift to one side if not corrected and wear down on your tooth enamel.

2. Underbite - An underbite happens when the lower jaw sits in front of the upper jaw. The lower jaw may appear to be excessively large, but in many cases the lack of upper jaw development is at fault. An underbite impacts tooth wear and adds a stress on your jaw joints. Through orthodontic treatment, an underbite can be corrected and help keep you healthy, beyond an aesthetically pleasing smile.

3. Overbite – An overbite occurs when your top front teeth extend beyond your bottom front teeth. The most common cause of an overbite is the shape and/or size of the jaw or the teeth. This could mean having too much room in the jaw area or too little room to accommodate one’s teeth. If not treated, the overbite will allow the teeth to crowd each other and grow in crooked if there is too little room, or the teeth will be spaced too far apart if the jaw area is too large. A more severe overbite may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or jaw pain.

Untreated problems will only get worse with time. If you suffer from a bad bite, consider visiting McClellan Orthodontics in Kenilworth, IL. Make an appointment today.

Wednesday, July 7, 2021

Achieve a Healthy Smile in 6 Easy Steps

McClellan Orthodontics

For many people, an ideal smile is a mouth full of bright white, perfectly aligned teeth. But in addition to straight white teeth, you need to make sure that your smile is a healthy one.

Follow the steps below to make sure your smile is the picture of health.

1. Brush your Teeth Twice a Day

Brushing removes leftover food particles that can bond with saliva to form plaque. These particles feed the bacteria that naturally live in our mouths and these bacteria can eat through our tooth enamel and cause tooth decay.

2. Floss Once a Day

Flossing removes plaque between teeth and out from under the gumlines, where a toothbrush can’t reach. If left alone, plaque and tartar build up under the surface of the gumlines can cause periodontal disease, which leads to bone destruction and tooth loss.

3. Limit Sugary Drinks

The bacteria in our mouths thrive on sugar which makes sugary drinks a major contributor to tooth decay. Reducing the amount of sugar in your diet combined with regular brushing and flossing can help keep the bacteria under control.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Good nutrition provided by healthy foods help your bones and teeth grow and stay healthy. Also...a lot of fruits and vegetables are crunchy and chewy, which promotes the production of saliva. Foods that require a lot of chewing are good for the teeth because more saliva means the mouth is naturally washed out more often.

5. Stay Hydrated

Water is the healthiest drink for your smile and your body. Drinking water helps rinse teeth clean and discourages tooth decay. Not only that…but keeping your body hydrated helps your mouth produce enough saliva to keep your mouth and teeth clean.

6. See your Dentist Twice a Year

Regular dental visits are necessary to preserving your oral health. Having routine cleanings every six months helps to promote good oral health and a beautiful smile. Regular dental checkups are the key to maintaining a healthy smile.

It can take some time before you start to notice changes from improved oral hygiene. While these changes won’t come overnight, they are certainly worth the time and effort, both for the sake of your smile and your overall health. If you have any questions regarding the health of your teeth and mouth, don’t hesitate to call our office

 

 

Monday, June 21, 2021

Braces Treatment at McClellan Orthodontics

McClellan Orthodontics

Your smile has an effect on your whole life, at McClellan Orthodontics, we offer three types of braces to help transform your smile.

1. Damon Silver Braces - Damon Silver Braces are a good, cost-effective option for kids, teens, and adults. Because of their durability and cost-effectiveness, they are the most popular braces used in orthodontics. These brackets are made up of a mix of stainless steel, nickel, and other metals…this makes the brackets very durable and helps prevent breakage. Damon brackets are bonded to the front of your teeth. The brackets hold the orthodontic wire in place. The wire is what actually causes the teeth to move, with the bracket serving as an anchor site on each of your teeth. As you move along in your treatment, the wires will be changed out to straighten teeth to your desired result.

2. Damon Clear Braces - Damon Clear Braces are a growing option to correct your bite and straighten your smile. Ceramic braces work just like traditional silver braces, however, they are made of a tooth-colored ceramic material and are nearly invisible. Many people opt for clear ceramic braces because they’re less noticeable on your teeth. This can be a huge advantage if you’re considering braces and don’t want to feel self-conscious about wearing them. Clear braces are recommended if all of your adult teeth have come in and you’ve mostly stopped growing. Damon Clear Braces are a good choice if you want your braces to be subtle.

3. Invisalign Clear Aligners - Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens your teeth without the use of metal or ceramic brackets. Invisalign is a series of custom-made clear braces that cover your teeth and gently pull them into the proper position over time. Because they are clear and can be taken on and off, they are less noticeable than traditional metal braces. With Invisalign clear braces there are no metal brackets or wires to detract from your smile while undergoing treatment. Invisalign clear aligners are made from BPA-free plastic, and they are far more comfortable than traditional silver braces. Both teenagers and adults can wear Invisalign. These clear aligners are used to close gaps between teeth, as well as treating overbite, underbite, open bite, crossbite, and overcrowded teeth.

Dr. McClellan is committed to determining which treatment solution is best suited for you. Schedule your complimentary consultation today and smile with confidence tomorrow.

Thursday, June 3, 2021

Caring for Your Invisalign Aligners

Did you know over 6 million people across the U.S. have had orthodontic treatment using Invisalign? That includes many people right here in our Kenilworth community.

Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using a custom-made series of aligners created just for you. These aligner trays are made of smooth, comfortable and virtually invisible plastic that you wear over your teeth. Wearing the aligners will gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements that Dr. McClellan plan's out for you.

One of Invisalign’s biggest advantages is having the ability to take the aligners out to eat and drink…but that doesn't mean they don't get dirty. Keeping your aligners clean is a vital part of your treatment, and it's the only way to keep them invisible, odorless, and free from germs.

Caring for your Invisalign aligners is easy...

  • Any time you take your aligners out of your mouth, rinse them thoroughly under running water. This will rinse away bacteria, saliva, and food particles. Hot water will distort the trays. It is not safe to place your Invisalign aligners into the dishwasher or in boiling water. The best way to clean your aligners is with a clean toothbrush and cool water.
  • Proper care isn't just about clean aligners; your teeth need to stay clean too. Be sure to brush and floss your teeth regularly to prevent buildup of plaque and bacteria under the aligners. 
  • Anti-Bacterial soft soap is a great way to keep your aligners free of bacteria and plaque. Using anything but clear soap with aligners can cause them to stain.
  • Ideally, you want to brush your Invisalign aligners every time you take them out or before you put them back in. But be careful, as overzealous brushing can leave visible marks and scratches on your aligners. Toothpaste is great for your teeth, but it can harm your aligners. When you brush your aligners, do so gently and without toothpaste.

It is important that your take care of your Invisalign aligners to ensure they are doing their best in helping shape your teeth according to your plan. If you have questions about caring for your Invisalign aligners, we are here to help! Feel free to reach out to us or use our easy online form to schedule an appointment at our Kenilworth, IL orthodontic office.

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

5 Signs You May Have Gum Disease

McClellan Orthodontics

More than 80 percent of Americans are living with gum disease, which most often than not, goes unnoticed.

At McClellan Orthodontics our goal is to raise awareness of the prevalence of gum disease while encouraging our patients to take an active role in better oral health.

Gum disease is something that most people will experience at some point in their lives. But because the symptoms of gum disease are so subtle, most people don't realize their oral health is at risk. 

If gum disease is left untreated, the consequences could be severe.  Gum disease has been linked to a host of general medical problems, including: Heart disease, Endocarditis, Lung problems, Alzheimer’s disease, Colorectal cancer, Diabetes, and Kidney, pancreatic and blood cancers in men.

According to the American Association of Periodontology (AAP), you may have gum disease if:

  • Your gums are red, swollen, and sore to the touch. 
  • Your gums bleed when you eat, brush or floss.  
  • You see pus or other signs of infection around the gums and teeth. 
  • Your gums look as if they are "pulling away" from the teeth.  
  • You frequently have bad breath or notice a bad taste in your mouth.

A great oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits are the absolute best way to take a preventative measure against gum disease. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush your teeth twice a day and that you floss your teeth every day to ensure your gums are healthy and pink.

With good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, you can keep your teeth for a lifetime and avoid many significant health problems.

If you have any questions regarding the health of your teeth and gums, please don't hesitate to give McClellan Orthodontics a call.

Thursday, May 6, 2021

It's time for a New Toothbrush

The toothbrush is your number one oral hygiene accessory.  Toothbrushes help keep your teeth and mouth clean, but how long should you keep a toothbrush?

Replacing your toothbrush is essential since it is constantly being exposed to germs and bacteria. At McClellan Orthodontics, we recommend that you switch out your old toothbrush for a new one every 3 to 4 months. People who wear braces should change their toothbrushes more frequently because braces break down and fracture bristles which makes the toothbrush lose its effectiveness. If you notice the bristles of your toothbrush have become worn that's a clear sign you need a new toothbrush.

3 Reasons to Change Out Your Old Toothbrush:

1. Bacteria - Your toothbrush is a tool for removing bacteria from your teeth…but it doesn’t actually kill bacteria. No matter how well you store your toothbrush, it’s still going to harbor bacteria in between brushings. Same goes for everyone else’s toothbrush.This means if your toothbrush comes in contact with somebody else’s, it’s liable to pick up some of the germs from that neighboring toothbrush.

2. Bristles - Like any tool, a toothbrush wears down. Worn bristles are tough on your enamel and can wear it away over time. If your toothbrush’s bristles can no longer stand up straight, that’s a surefire sign it’s time to buy a new brush. Bent, frayed, or excessively worn bristles simply aren’t going to be as effective at removing plaque and other particles from your teeth compared to bristles that are in better shape.

3. Illness - Always change your toothbrush after you’ve been sick, even if it’s not “technically” time to switch out your toothbrush. you should also replace your toothbrush if you have dropped it. Even if your toothbrush lands somewhere it shouldn’t for just a few seconds, that’s enough time for it to pick up all sorts of nasty bacteria. No matter whether you drop your toothbrush on the floor, in the sink, or anywhere else, the introduction of foreign bacteria into your mouth from your toothbrush could provoke illness. Better to be safe than sorry.

Having a clean mouth is important. It gives you fresh breath and a nicer-looking smile. Brushing removes a thin sticky film of bacteria that grows on your teeth. This sticky film, called plaque, is the main cause of tooth decay and gum disease. Replacing your toothbrush on a regular basis is one of the best ways to ensure it does its job to the best of its abilities.

Pro Tip: Put that old toothbrush to work doing odd jobs around the house. Old toothbrushes are great for cleaning around facet fixtures and in between tile. They can even be used to clean tools, computer keyboards, and tennis shoes.