What is AcceleDent?

McClellan Orthodontics

One of the most asked questions when patients get their braces on is… “How long will my treatment last?” While there is no quick fix, there is a way to speed up your orthodontic treatment.

The AcceleDent System is an innovative technology designed to decrease the time you are in braces by increasing the rate of tooth movement. The appliance, used daily for 20 minutes, applies patented technology to gently vibrate the teeth and surrounding bone. The microvibrations increase the rate of bone remodeling and allow the teeth to move 38-50% faster. The rate of tooth movement depends on the speed at which the bone surrounding the teeth changes. Studies have shown that orthodontic forces coupled with micovibrations safely accelerate tooth movement.

The tiny high-tech AcceleDent device works in conjunction with a comprehensive app to monitor your treatment. This offers our patients more control over their orthodontic treatment. The basic features of the downloadable app are:

• Tracking of usage, including key metrics
• Easily accessible dashboards
• Can be used on several devices and from different locations
• Information is cloud-based
• Allows reminder notifications for daily usage
• Includes HIPAA compliant encryption to keep your data secure

AcceleDent works with any type of orthodontic treatment, including Invisalign and braces. If you have more questions about this treatment enhancement tool, please ask during your initial consultation visit.

When undergoing orthodontic treatment, the most important thing you can do is to choose an orthodontist who is highly trained and who has experience in treating orthodontic cases of all types. The skill level of your orthodontist is the number one factor in determining how long your treatment will last. No matter what products and technologies are introduced, if your orthodontist does not have the knowledge and skill required to offer scientifically backed treatment options, your treatment may not be as effective and may last longer than anticipated.

The Team at McClellan Orthodontics has years of experience providing the finest orthodontic treatment available anywhere. Paired with our scientifically backed approach, McClellan Orthodontics patients often see shorter treatment times, without added expenses. Call our Kenilworth orthodontic office to learn more.

 

Choose Your Look

McClellan Orthodontics

At McClellan Orthodontics, we help patients of all ages receive the professional orthodontic treatment they need to achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy, and straight smile. With orthodontic care, Dr. McClellan and his team will help to correct the alignment of a patient’s teeth and promote excellent overall oral health. With various types of braces and aligners, we can customize a treatment plan to help straighten your teeth for the smile you deserve.

Orthodontic brackets are an integral part of orthodontic treatment. McClellan Orthodontics provides many different types of orthodontic brackets for our patients, making it easy for everyone to have the best treatment option available to fit their unique goals and needs.

When most people think about visiting the orthodontist, they think traditional metal braces for teenagers is the extent of the orthodontic services provided. The reality is…today’s orthodontic options extend far beyond metal braces. At McClellan Orthodontics, we provide an array of orthodontic services to help straighten teeth. The services at McClellan Orthodontics include:

Metal Braces – Traditional metal braces are the most common type of braces and are more comfortable today than ever before. Made of high-grade stainless steel, metal braces straighten your teeth using metal brackets and archwires. With metal braces, you have the option of adding colored elastics (rubber bands) for a more unique and colorful smile.

Clear braces – Made of a translucent tooth colored material, clear braces are the most popular among adult patients. The natural look of these smooth, sculpted and completely clear ceramic braces are strong and will not stain or discolor. These ceramic brackets offer our patients the look they want, with all the functionality of traditional metal brackets.

Invisalign - Invisalign treatment is a technique that straightens your teeth without braces, using a series of clear, removable aligners that are custom-modeled to fit your teeth. The virtually invisible aligners gradually reposition your teeth into a smile you can be proud of.

AcceleDent - The AcceleDent System is a modern technology designed to decrease the time you are in braces or Invisalign by increasing the rate of tooth movement. The rate of tooth movement depends on the speed at which the bone surrounding the teeth changes. Studies have shown that orthodontic force coupled with micro-vibrations, generated by the AcceleDent System, safely accelerates tooth movement. AcceleDent works for a variety of cases and is safe for patients of all ages.

Tooth alignment issues are extremely common. Our team has the training and knowledge to provide the right treatment plan for you. Regardless of your age or concerns, we will evaluate your specific orthodontic issues to help you meet your goals.

Call us to schedule an initial appointment and discover the treatment plan to help straighten your teeth today.

Speed Up Your Orthodontic Treatment

McClellan Orthodontics

When patients are told that they need orthodontic treatment, the first question they ask is, “How long will I have to wear braces?”. Fortunately, advances in technology have made orthodontic treatment time quicker than ever before. Results that used to require 2-3 years of treatment can now be achieved in a little over a year!

At McClellan Orthodontics, we offer the latest technology in orthodontics to ensure you receive the absolute best results and highest quality care available. We are proud to offer a product which can help you complete treatment even faster. It’s called AcceleDent, and it can help your teeth move up to 50% faster when worn for 20 minutes a day.

The AcceleDent System is a product designed to decrease the time you are in braces or Invisalign by increasing the rate of tooth movement. The rate of tooth movement depends on the speed at which the bone surrounding the teeth changes. Studies have shown that orthodontic force coupled with micro-vibrations, generated by the AcceleDent System, safely accelerates tooth movement.

How Does It Work? AcceleDent is a portable, removable, hands-free mouthpiece. The mouthpiece connects to an activator and gently vibrates using patented SoftPulse technology. These gently vibration speed up tooth movement and increase the rate of bone remodeling compared to constant, static pressure.

How Do I Use It? AcceleDent is easy to use. You attach the mouthpiece by plugging it into the activator. Turn on the activator, place it in your mouth, and bite down firmly to hold it in place. You will use the mouthpiece for a continuous 20-minute session each day at about the same time. Because you don’t need to use your hands to keep it in place, you can read, watching television, listening to music, do schoolwork, surf the Internet, or check your email while you’re using it. As a bonus, the FastTrac Usage report provides a daily usage graph and summary so you can hold yourself accountable.

How Do I Clean It? Take the mouthpiece off the activator to clean the device. Rinse the mouthpiece after each session with lukewarm water. Every so often you can gently brush it with a soft bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. Wipe the activator with a soft cloth to keep it sparkly clean. Keep in mind…The activator isn’t waterproof so don’t get it wet.

How Do I Charge It? To care for your AcceleDent System, keep it clean and make sure it’s always charged. The LED indicator will quickly flash orange when it’s time to recharge the activator. Plug the activator into the wall using the power adapter or connect it to your computer with the USB cord. When you see it slowly flash orange, you’ll know it’s charging. When the LED light is green it’s ready to go.

Is AcceleDent Safe? AcceleDent has been cleared by the FDA as a Class II medical device and trials showed no adverse effects or tooth root damage. And the gentle vibrations may actually decrease the discomfort and sensitivity that occasionally results from wearing braces and having them adjusted and tightened.

AcceleDent works for a variety of cases and with most all orthodontic appliance and is safe for patients of all ages, from children to adults. It’s available by prescription only so be sure to talk with McClellan to determine if the Acceledent System would be a good fit for you.

 

Protect Your Enamel

McClellan Orthodontics

Braces are a spectacular tool for straightening smiles and correcting jaw problems that impact self-confidence and overall oral wellness. Your wires and brackets are fundamental to the treatment process, but they also can make it difficult to remove food particles that get stuck under and between your brackets and wires. Unfortunately, if this food is left to fester, the acidic content of the food can eat away at your tooth’s vital tooth enamel.

If you have braces, your smile can be prone to enamel erosion. Enamel erosion occurs when acid attacks the teeth and wears down the enamel. This can make your teeth vulnerable to tooth fractures and cavities. Permanent damage to tooth enamel can occur if the teeth and brackets are not kept clean.

To prevent enamel erosion, Dr. McClellan encourages you to:

Avoid Acidic Foods and Beverages: Consuming acidic products can expose your smile to the acid that harms the teeth. So, it’s best to avoid consuming acidic foods and drinks as much as possible.

When it comes to taking care of your teeth with braces, one of the best things you can do is pay attention to what you are putting in your mouth. Thinking about what is coming in contact with your pearly whites can protect your teeth from erosion and decay.

Certain foods and beverages are more acidic than others. During orthodontic treatment, focus on eating foods that are both good for your body and your teeth.

Less tooth-friendly foods and drinks include: apples, cherries, oranges, peaches, pears, plums, pineapples, raspberries, tomatoes, pickles, soft drinks, and fruit drinks.

More tooth-friendly foods and drinks include: bananas, mangoes, melons, carrots, cucumbers, lettuce, milk, water, meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, crackers, and pasta.

Keep Your Teeth Clean: This includes regular brushing, an interdental brush, floss (and floss threaders) and possibly a water flosser to help you use the force of water to rid your mouth of stuck debris.

Use Fluoride: Fluoride can strengthen your tooth enamel and help you avoid enamel erosion. Use a fluoride toothpaste and fluoride mouthwash whenever possible.

If you like to learn more about how you prevent enamel erosion while wearing braces, our friendly staff at McClellan Orthodontics is available to train you in methods for keeping your teeth clean and strong.

Is It An Orthodontic Emergency?

McClellan Orthodontics

So you just got home from your orthodontic adjustment appointment with Dr. McClellan and your next appointment is scheduled for six weeks from now. Your mouth is sore, you feel a wire poking your cheek, and your teeth are tender. You have an emergency and need these painful issues resolved right away!

Did you know that many things we consider an emergency are really things that are simply causing us temporary discomfort and can be resolved at home? Most orthodontic concerns like, poking wires and mouth soreness can be fixed without scheduling an emergency appointment.

3 Simple Solutions to Alleviate Pain or Discomfort

Soreness: Warm salt-water rinses are helpful in relieving soreness. You may also take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or Advil as you would for a headache or similar discomfort.

Poking Wire: Sometimes a poking wire can be safely turned down so that it no longer causes you discomfort. Try to tuck the wire out of the way with the blunt end of a toothbrush, pencil eraser, or Q-Tip. Orthodontic wax can always be used to cover any archwire that might be sticking out.

Loose Wire: Use Tweezers to re-insert the archwire that may have slipped out of the molar bracket. Place wax over it if there is any remaining discomfort.

Please Remember: Every time you brush your teeth, check to make sure you do not have any loose braces by gently trying to slide each one. If a wire or band comes loose, do not be alarmed. If you have a broken or loose appliance, please call our Kenilworth orthodontic office to determine if your breakage is urgent and requires immediate repair.

Orthodontist vs. Dentist

McClellan Orthodontics

What is the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist and why should you care?

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 and gums, while orthodontics is a specialty within dentistry that focuses on correcting bites. All orthodontists are dentists, but not all dentists are licensed orthodontists.

A question people often ask is, “Can my dentist give me braces?” The simple answer is no.

Orthodontists and dentists undertake the same training initially, but orthodontists complete further training after they graduate dental school to become qualified in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of orthodontic problems. Orthodontists specialize in helping patients with the alignment of their teeth, improving their bite, and fitting them for braces and other corrective devices. The benefits of having an orthodontist work on your smile 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 Orthodontist to improve your smile? Give McClellan Orthodontics a call today.

 

The Fast Track to a Healthy Beautiful Smile

acceledent.com

Have you been considering orthodontic treatment, but don’t want to be braces forever? We completely understand. That’s why, at McClellan Orthodontics, we offer our patients a safe and effective way to speed up treatment time.

The AcceleDent System is a new technology designed to decrease the time you’re in braces by increasing the rate of tooth movement. The rate of tooth movement greatly depends on the speed at which the bone surrounding the teeth change. Studies have shown that orthodontic forces coupled with the microvibrations generated by the AcceleDent System safely increase tooth movement by 38-50%.

The AcceleDent System is a hands-free device that can be used 20 minutes per day while engaging in a variety of routine activities including browsing the internet, watching television and doing homework. Simple and easy-to-use, the AcceleDent System is clinically shown to speed up tooth movement while reducing orthodontic discomfort.

AcceleDent’s patented SoftPulse Technology applies precisely calibrated vibrations called micropulses that transmit through the roots of your teeth to the surrounding bone. This gentle vibration helps increase the cellular activity and speeds the rate in which your teeth can move.

In addition to faster, more comfortable treatment, AcceleDent can lead to many other benefits. Accelerated treatment often requires less orthodontic office visits. Accelerating the orthodontic treatment process can also reduce oral health issues by decreasing the risk of white spots, cavities and gum inflammation.

If you’re interested in learning how AcceleDent can help speed up your time in braces, give our Kenilworth office a call. Our friendly and knowledge team will get you scheduled for a consultation with Dr. McClellan to determine if the AcceleDent System is right for you.

Wear those Retainers

McClellan Orthodontics

Congratulations! You are near the end of your smile journey and your braces are about to be off! Nothing like that feeling. Even long after our braces are off, teeth shift and it is natural as we grow older. There is one thing you can do to ensure your smile remains the best it can be and that is wearing retainers.

No matter your situation, it’s almost a guarantee you will be wearing some form of a retainer after having your braces are removed. It might be removable retainer, which is removed for eating and cleaning or a bonded retainer, placed discreetly behind your teeth.

There might be a minor adjustment period when you first put your retainer on. Don’t worry, this is completely normal and will pass soon enough.

Retainers are essential for helping your teeth stay in place in their new positions after wearing braces.

3 Benefits of Fixing an Open-bite

If your upper and lower teeth don't touch when your mouth is closed, your doctor calls this an open bite. An open bite affects the way we eat food. With orthodontic treatment this can be corrected. Here are three benefits of fixing an open bite.

1. Your teeth will be cleaner. When your teeth become straighter, it is easier to clean in between teeth and keep your smile healthy.
2. In many cases, red and swollen gums are a direct result of teeth that are too widely spaced or too crowded, which can be minimized by straightening your smile.
3. As a key part of your mouth, your teeth play an important role in your speech. Gapped, protruding, or crowded teeth can affect your speaking patterns. Straightening your smile can help.

Choosing to straighten your teeth is a big decision that affects not only your appearance but your lifestyle as well and the benefits of having properly aligned teeth extend far beyond a confident smile. Straightening your teeth can significantly affect your overall dental health. Schedule an appointment today.

2 Ways Your Smile Changes when you get Older

As we grow older, our teeth shift. If you had orthodontic treatment as a teen or child, chances are as an adult your teeth will shift. Here are two ways your smile changes as we all get older.

1. When the lower and upper jaw don’t align, it is called a malocclusion in orthodontic terms. Simply, you may have a bad bite. A bad bite can cause headaches, a bad speech, clicking and popping jaw joints and can cause you to possibly grind your teeth.

A bad bite can be corrected at any age and through various ways such as Invisalign or braces.  An estimated 1.61 million adults underwent orthodontic treatment in the U.S. in 2018.

2. Retainers are so important after orthodontic treatment because teeth may shift. After orthodontic treatment a retainer is needed to maintain teeth in position. As we age, if teeth are restored or lost, new proper fitting retainers will be needed to prevent unwanted change.

Your First Visit at McClellan Orthodontics

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.

At your first visit, you will be greeted by one of our staff members and a complimentary, no obligation orthodontic exam will be done. During this time, we evaluate many things relating to your face, your smile, the fit of your teeth and the amount of room for all of your teeth. From this initial visit, if a you are ready for treatment, an appointment for diagnostic records is made.

If a patient is still developing and is not yet ready for treatment, we will recommend the patient be placed into an observation phase where we will follow growth and development to determine the appropriate time for treatment. Often, treatment fees, general payment options and insurance benefits are discussed.

Acceledent Has Helped Kenilworth Smile Brighter

The AcceleDent System is a new technology designed to decrease the time you are in braces or Invisalign by increasing the rate of tooth movement. Results from a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial, conducted at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, demonstrate that tooth movement could be increased by 38-50%.


The rate of tooth movement greatly depends on the speed at which the bone surrounding the teeth changes. Studies have shown that orthodontic force coupled with microvibrations, generated by the AcceleDent System, safely accelerates tooth movement.

 

2 Health Consequences of Gapped Teeth

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.

Gap teeth are a common reason some people are unhappy with their smile. Also referred to as spacing issues, “gap teeth” refers to instances in which a person has extra space between at least two of their teeth.

Gapped teeth can cause you to have gums that are tender, sore and uncomfortable. Over time, people will spacing issues may also suffer from gum disease as a result of their gapped teeth.

Gapped teeth can also cause problems with speech, especially in young children.

Thankful for our Kenilworth Community

Thankful for our Kenilworth community and all of our patients. We are incredibly grateful for the kind words and reviews. 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.

Summer Smiles

Have we mentioned we love what we do. 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. Check out a few of our summer smiles

5 Reasons Why Summer is the Perfect Time to get Braces.

1.) There is more time to learn how to care for braces.
2.) Dealing with the soreness of new braces is more manageable at home.
3.) It's helpful to be home when adjusting to eating with new braces.
4.) It's easier to schedule appointments with more flexibility.
5.) It's helpful to adjust to braces before school starts.

Summer will be over before you know it! Call to schedule your appointment today. New Patient consultations are always complementary.

National Facial Protection Month

Did you know from the ages of 7 to 11 years old, children are most vulnerable to sports related mouth injuries? The importance of protecting our smile should be stressed enough and should remind our friends and community how easy it is to protect our teeth.

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Winner winner chicken dinner!! Ainsley guessed “how many eggs are in the jar?” CONGRATULATIONS 🎉🎈!!It’s filled with yummy treats and cash 💰😁, she guessed 278 and it had 281 Eggs. We are soooo Egggstatic for her! 🐣🐰HaPpY EaStEr 🐣 🐰 #mcclellanandsagun #kenilworth #braces #Invisalign #smile #orthodontist #easter #eastereggs #colorfuleggs

A post shared by Mart & Tim (@mcclellanandsagunortho) on Apr 18, 2019 at 2:24pm PDT