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.