Early Orthodontic Treatment

McClellan Orthodontics

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.

 

 

Adjusting is Easy

McClellan Orthodontics

You may or may not be excited about wearing your braces, but regardless, we know you will totally be thrilled with the result of your new smile.  As with any change, adjusting to something new can be a little confusing and overwhelming at times, so we are here to help with a few tips on adjusting to your new braces.

Tip #1:  Give Yourself Time

Your braces may not be what you expected, but after a while, when your teeth start shifting you will notice how incredible your teeth alignment and smile look. Initially, your braces may feel like they stick out. This is normal. As you become accustomed to your braces and tooth alignment improves, this sensation won’t be a concern. Although the brackets have been rounded and smoothed, until the cheek tissues have toughened, you may find it helpful to use a small piece of orthodontic wax around the bracket that is creating the irritation.

Tip #2: Be Confident

Don't worry about how your braces look and don't be afraid or embarrassed to smile with your braces. Depending on the type of braces you are treated with, people may not even know you're wearing braces. Be proud and know that your smile will look amazing very soon!

Tip #3:  Know What To Do

• Be sure you know what to do if you're experiencing pain or problems with your braces. Before you leave checkups:

• Using your finger and tongue, check to see that the wire ends do not extend into areas which might poke or abrade the cheek or tongue.

• Make sure you understand what you are to do until your next appointment. This could include wearing elastics as instructed, adjusting an expander or following specific hygiene and diet instructions.

• Make sure you have an adequate supply of dental wax, special cleaning aids, elastic bands, or other related materials you may need between appointments.

• Always schedule your next appointment before leaving the office. Postponing appointments is a common contributor to overtime treatment.

If a problem arises after your appointment, don't be afraid to call us; chances are it's a simple fix. For more information about adjusting to your braces, visit our website or give us a call at our Kenilworth office.

Two-Phase Orthodontics

McClellan Orthodontics

Orthodontics can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that does not mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact, it may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Two-phase orthodontics starts with interceptive orthodontic care (phase one treatment). This interceptive phase can make a dramatic impact on establishing the proper occlusal foundation as it allows Dr. McClellan the opportunity to intercept a problem before it gets out of hand. Typically, phase one treatment starts with younger children in order to shift teeth, manipulate growth, and create space for unerupted teeth. Phase one treatment, can create a better environment to idealize the occlusion for the child or possibly create an environment to elevate treatment in the future.

The best age for phase one treatment is between 7 and 10 years old. Typically, this first phase will be about 4 to 12 months and will address a specific problem. Once phase one treatment is completed, your child will be monitored by Dr. McClellan until they are ready for phase two.

Phase two treatment begins once a majority of the adult teeth have erupted. The average treatment time of second phase is about 12 months with retainers being worn after treatment to hold the correct position of the teeth.

It is important to have your child evaluated by Dr. McClellan from an early age as early diagnosis and treatment can have a lasting improvement on the function of your child’s teeth and their overall appearance. Feel free to contact our Kenilworth orthodontic office or visit our website to schedule your child’s initial evaluation. Our exceptional and professional staff looks forward to making your child’s Two-Phase Orthodontic Treatment as efficient and rewarding as possible.

Pool Safety and our Smile

Summertime is always a great time for family, fun in the sun and lounging by a pool. While the season is filled with good times, it can also present certain risks such as mouth/facial injuries. Pool safety is important to know how to keep our smiles healthy. Pool related tooth injuries are very common in the summer. Be sure to stay safe.

Many of the summer oral injuries are due to a pool accident. Running on a slippery pool decks, diving into shallow waters or bumping the pool ledge with their mouth causes many children to either chip or knock a tooth loose.

A Healthy Halloween

Happy Halloween! We love all the costumes, sweet treats and pumpkin carvings. As Orthodontists we believe Halloween is a great opportunity to remind kids of the responsibility of taking care of their teeth. Here are three tips to have a healthy Halloween.

1. Choose the Right Candy: According to the American Dental Association (ADA), “the best types of treats are those that dissolve easily and don't produce residue that sticks to the teeth's enamel.” Choose candy such as chocolate that melts fast and does not stick to your teeth.
2. Candy Buy-Back: Look for a candy buy back programs that allows you to trade in your candy for cash. This is perfect for any kids saving for that perfect gadget. 
3. Healthy Alternative: You can cut Jack-o-lantern faces into clementines, or make frozen banana halves into friendly ghosts with chocolate chip eyes and mouths. Or, go food-free altogether and hand out stickers, glow sticks or temporary tattoos to support a cavity-free Halloween in your neighborhood.

Avoid these Treats on Halloween

Happy Halloween from everyone at McClellan and Sagun Orthodontics!

Halloween is the perfect opportunity to talk to remind them about the importance of sticking to their health routine. This includes brushing your teeth, flossing, wearing your retainers, using mouthwash and other health tips. If you recently received orthodontic treatment such as braces or in the middle of your treatment, we recommend you avoid these sweet treats.

• Popcorn Balls: These are often a big hit on Halloween night and a guarantee in your child's Halloween bucket. Have some floss on hand after enjoying these treats. Please be aware, if you have braces, these are probably not an ideal treat.  
• Hard Candies: You want to watch out for hard candies on Halloween and beyond. These can break your teeth and can be damaging if you have braces. On top of that, hard candies can cause the sugar to wash all over your teeth. This is due to having the hard candy for longer periods in your mouth.

Spotlight on This Months Check-In 4 Charity: Smile for a Lifetime

Just like that the warm summer months are winding down and September is here! For all of us at McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics, this also means a new charity of the month! With your help we will be supporting Smile for a Lifetime.

ABOUT THE CHARITY
The Smile for a Lifetime Foundation is a charitable non-profit organization that provides orthodontics to individuals, ages 11-18, who may not have the opportunity to acquire assistance any other way. Launched in 2008, Smile for a Lifetime aims to reach individuals with financial challenges, special situations, and orthodontic needs. The Foundation sponsors the orthodontic care of hundreds of patients each year through local chapters. To date, they have donated services totaling more than $35 million dollars.

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING SMILE FOR A LIFETIME

McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics takes part in the Check-In 4 Charity program. Whenever you check-in at our office on Facebook, a donation will be generated for the charity of the month. Be sure to check-in at your next appointment and together we can give back to this amazing charity during the month of September.

Rainbow Smoothie Recipe

Here is everything you need to know to make your own rainbow smoothie! Enjoy!

Ingredients

RED LAYER

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1/2 cup frozen raspberries
• 1/2 cup frozen strawberries
• water or liquid for blending

ORANGE LAYER

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1/2 cup frozen peaches
• 1 small orange
• 1/4 cup frozen mango
• water or liquid for blending

YELLOW LAYER

• 2 frozen bananas
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1 cup frozen pineapple
• water or liquid for blending

GREEN LAYER

• 2 frozen bananas
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1 handful (or more) spinach
• 1 cup frozen pineapple
• water or liquid for blending

BLUE LAYER

• 2 frozen bananas
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1 cup frozen pineapple
• small amount of blue food coloring
• water or liquid for blending

PURPLE LAYER

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1 cup frozen mixed berries
• water or liquid for blending

MAGENTA LAYER

• 1 frozen banana
• 1/2 cup greek yogurt, vanilla or plain
• 1/2 cup sliced beets
• 1 cup frozen strawberries or raspberries

FOR EACH SMOOTHIE

1. Place all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add more liquid to help it blend if it's too thick. 
2. Transfer the smoothie to a bowl or container, rinse the blender and prep the next smoothie. 

TO ASSEMBLE THE RAINBOW SMOOTHIE
Carefully layer each color smoothie in glasses in rainbow order. If desired, blend the smoothie using a straw or stir stick. Top each smoothie with a toothpick filled with leftover fruit.

The Clear Choice For Teens

Is your teen bummed out about the thought of having braces? Invisalign Teen aligners give adolescents a whole new way to wear braces for a clearly amazing smile!

Scenarios in high school like, the team game on Friday nights, homecoming dances, and yearbook pictures can leave many teens stressed about their smile Don't let your teenager stress; during Invisalign Teen treatment teens can achieve a straight smile without metal braces and without detection!

Invisalign Teen aligners are a perfect fit for every lifestyle, because aligners are:

• Clear 
• Removable 
• Super comfortable 
• Customized 

Unlike traditional metal braces, Invisalign Teen aligners are removable, which means you can go ahead and eat all the things you love without worrying about breaking a bracket or losing a rubber band.

Invisalign aligners are really comfortable and very durable. They fit in with any of your extracurricular activities. So whether you're swimming the 50-meter race, throwing the football out on the field, or playing the clarinet with the school band, you don't have to worry about your braces getting in the way! Give McClellan and Sagun Orthodontics a call to schedule a consultation just in time for the new school year!

August Charity Of The Month

August is here! For many, this means the end of summer vacation and back to school, but for McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics, this means a new charity of the month. This month, with your help, we will be supporting Doctors Without Borders.

ABOUT THE CHARITYDoctors Without Borders is an international humanitarian organization founded in 1971. This charity is known to respond to emergencies around the world, saving and impacting lives daily. The funds allow the organization to impact those in need of help; they go where patients are. They generally work in conflict zones after natural disasters, epidemics, long-term care settings, and more. Funding is a crucial part of this charity as the crew works on so many projects worldwide, we want to help.

JOIN US IN SUPPORTING DOCTORS WITHOUT BORDERS

McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics is a Check-in 4 Charity Member. That means, whenever you check-in at our office on Facebook, a donation will be generated for the charity of the month. Check-in at your next appointment and together we can join forces to give back to this amazing charity during the month of August.

Benefits of Straight Teeth

There are several benefits of having properly aligned straight teeth that most people are unaware of. Although a majority of patients who receive orthodontic treatment do so for a more confident and cosmetically attractive smile, having straight teeth can positively impact your overall oral health.

We decided to highlight some benefits of straight teeth, check them out.

Improved Gum Health
· Lower risk of gum disease.

· Lower risk of tooth loss.

Better Overall Health
· Less tooth decay.

· Lower risk of heart disease.

· Lower risk of high blood sugar.

Lower Risk of Soft Tissue Injury
· Misaligned teeth can push against soft tissues in the mouth.

· Cuts, sores, and infections are a result of crooked teeth.

Increased Confidence
· More self-esteem at work or school.

· Confidence leads to a more successful attitude.

Easier Eating
· Crooked teeth compromise chewing.

If you are ready to take advantage of the benefits of straight teeth, contact McClellan & Sagun we offer affordable orthodontic treatments for all ages.

Benefits Of Early Orthodontics

Orthodontic problems such as crowding of the teeth, too much space between the teeth, jaw growth problems, protruding teeth, and bad bites can be inherited or caused by injury to the mouth, early or late loss of baby teeth, or thumb sucking habits.

Most children have lost all their baby teeth by age 13 and by the end of their teen years the jaw bones will harden and no longer continue to grow. Orthodontic procedures for adults often take more time and can involve tooth extraction and the possibility of oral surgery. As a child, receiving early orthodontic treatment can help prevent the need for orthodontics as an adult, leaving little to no chance of extraction or surgery in the future.

If your child is between the ages of seven and eight and shows signs of needing orthodontic care, or if you have been directed by your family dentist to visit the orthodontist, please contact McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics and schedule an appointment. Our team will provide your child with an initial exam, and discuss with you the best steps to take toward caring for your child’s smile.

It's Never Too Late For Braces

It's important for senior citizens to stay active and updated on their health in all aspects; this includes dental and orthodontics. Are you a senior who has considered orthodontic treatment? You may be surprised to know that seniors can benefit from adult braces.

If you are retired and considering adult braces in the communities surrounding Kenilworth, such as Glenview, Northbrook, Morton Grove, Skokie, and Evanston IL, we encourage you to visit McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics. You may not be aware but retirement age is the perfect time to do things you’ve always wanted to do, including getting braces. If your smile has been something that’s bothered you throughout the years, the time to change that is now.

When you compare getting braces as an adult to getting them as a child or adolescent, there are benefits. One example is children typically must use metal braces due to restrictions and the simple fact that a child’s jaw hasn’t solidified. When you’re an adult, you have a much wider variety of treatment options from traditional braces to clear aligners.

If you are a senior and you’re interested in straightening your teeth, visit our office for a consultation to discuss adult braces. At McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics, we can help you understand all of the benefits that you will take away, aside from a picture perfect smile.

Sports Equipment That Helps Prevent Injury

Now that spring break has passed, many of our patients are ready to begin the spring sports season. Because many of our patients are active athletes, the time is perfect for McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics to remind everyone that April has been designated as National Facial Protection month and to encourage everyone to observe spring sports safety.

Here are 4 pieces of equipment you can add to your sports bag to stay safe during the sports season.

1. A mouth guard can protect your smile. A mouth guard is less expensive than an injury, and it is not painful to your mouth or wallet. Keep your smile safe and prevent your orthodontic appliances from injury by habitually wearing a mouth guard during sports.

2. A helmet can protect your head and neck. Helmets can prevent damage to the head and neck, so be sure to wear one when it is needed.

3. Protective eyewear can make a difference. Keep your 20/20 vision with sports eyewear that will keep your vision clear and your game at its best.

4. Face shields can protect you from trauma. If you are a hockey, football, or baseball player, face shields can prevent severe damage to your face.

Join Us In Supporting World Autism Month

McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics is taking part in the worldwide support for Autism this month! If you’re unaware, April is WOLRD AUTISM MONTH, so we want to go full force with our patients to support the amazing charity Autism Speaks.

What is Autism Speaks?
Autism Speaks is a charity with the goal to increase the public understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder. Aside from the amazing outcome of this charity, they are famous for their “Light It Up Blue” campaign. Wear blue to your appointments in April to show your support for Autism Speaks.

Facts about autism according to Autism Speaks:

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates autism’s prevalence as 1 in 68 children in the United States. This includes 1 in 42 boys and 1 in 189 girls. 
• An estimated 50,000 teens with autism become adults – and lose school-based autism services – each year. 
• Around one third of people with autism remain nonverbal. 
• Around one third of people with autism have an intellectual disability. 
• Certain medical and mental health issues frequently accompany autism. They include gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, seizures, sleep disturbances, attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety and phobias. 

How can you join us in supporting Autism Speaks?
Because McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics is a check-in 4 charity member, you can show support for Autism speaks by checking-in on Facebook at our office. Each time you check-in participate in our donation to Autism Speaks in April. Another fun way to get involved is to wear blue at your April appointments!

Easy Braces-Friendly Recipe

Making this Raspberry Peach Smoothie is super easy. All you need is some frozen raspberries, peaches, vanilla greek yogurt and vanilla almond milk. Blend it all together and you have a creamy, tasty smoothie to start your day! Enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen raspberries
• ¾ cup chopped fresh peaches
• ¼ cup vanilla greek yogurt
• ⅓ cup vanilla almond milkInstructions

Place all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth, adding a bit more almond milk as needed if the smoothie is too thick. Serve and enjoy!

For more braces-friendly recipes, tips, and tricks with braces subscribe to our blog or connect with McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics on Facebook!

How To Choose The Right Floss

Similar to several oral hygiene products, choosing the best dental floss to use is dependent on the consumer's preference. The fact is there is a ton of different floss options on the market with a variety of flavors, coatings, and other variations. Essentially, they all do the same thing and the most important thing to remember is to buy the most functional floss for your teeth, and use it daily. If you want to know what the best dental floss is, the answer is the kind that enables you to successfully and regularly clean the areas between your teeth. To help you find the right type of floss for you, here are some options.

FlossersFlossers usually consist of a plastic instrument with a floss strip and a pick on the opposite end. This option can be both effective at cleaning the areas in between your teeth and scraping off plaque. These flossers also come flavored in mint and various other varieties.

Gentle Dental Floss
Some people will find that dental floss is too harsh on their gums. For that reason, some companies make floss with soft coatings that are less abrasive on the gums. Typically, these types of floss are just as effective as regular floss and ideal for those looking for a more sensitive approach to flossing.

Flavored Dental Floss
Most regular flossers buy a flavored dental floss because it will freshen their breath even more than unscented floss. The latter can also take on the smells associated with bacteria in your mouth which can be pretty bad from case to case. We suggest if flavored dental floss is what you prefer, and it allows you to floss your teeth regularly, then it is automatically best for your mouth.

Of the options, it is difficult to name an absolute best type of floss because the answer varies from patient to patient. However, Dr. McClellan, Dr. Sagun, and our team say that the type of floss that works best for you, giving you the greatest chance of succeeding at regular flossing, is the best choice. For more information on floss, or flossing with braces, contact McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics located in Kenilworth, IL.

Health Benefits Of Braces

It’s no secret that a majority of those interested in orthodontic treatment are striving for a straighter smile that will make them more confident. Of course, the doctors and staff at McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics deliver straight beautiful smiles to all of our patients, but we want to inform those who are looking into orthodontic treatment that there are greater benefits to wearing braces. Are you aware of the health benefits of braces?

Braces can do more than just give you an attractive smile. Check out the following oral health problems that can be assisted when being treated by an orthodontist.

• Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
• Digestion
• Difficulties with Speech
• Bone Erosion

McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics staff are happy to explain more to you if you have further questions about the benefits of braces.

Check-in At Our Practice & Help Make-A-Wish

McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics is now a Check-in 4 Charity member! Check-in 4 Charity is a program for businesses such as ours to partner with our patients by getting them to check-in on Facebook. Each check-in helps us generate donations for different charities every month. It is fun, easy, free for you to participate in, and allows us to work together with you to achieve the goal of donating monthly to charities.

This month, with your help we are supporting Make-A-Wish International! All you have to do is check-in at McClellan & Sagun Orthodontics to help us generate donations that will help make a difference.