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4 Smart Strategies for Minimizing Orthodontic Discomfort

websitebuilder • Mar 24, 2022
Woman wearing clear retainer — Buffalo Grove, IL — Rosen Orthodontics

Orthodontic treatment can work wonders to turn crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth into a beautifully symmetrical smile. However, the process of straightening your teeth often involves some degree of discomfort. Discover four smart strategies to minimize that discomfort.

1. Choose Clear Aligners Over Traditional Braces

Many individuals choose clear aligner trays such as Invisalign over traditional braces. Although some dental alignment problems respond better to brackets and wires, clear aligners can correct a surprisingly wide range of mild to moderate orthodontic issues without posing the cosmetic challenges of traditional braces.



In addition to providing more visually discreet correction, clear aligner trays may also prove more comfortable than traditional braces. The smooth plastic surfaces can’t irritate the soft tissues inside your mouth as the sharper components of traditional braces often do. Ask your orthodontist whether you can or should choose this option.

2. Consider Lingual Braces

Some people who require orthodontic correction can’t benefit from clear aligner trays. For instance, if you struggle with abnormally shaped teeth, wide gaps between teeth, or a severe overbite, your orthodontist will recommend traditional braces for more effective results. However, you don’t have to display those braces to the whole world.


Instead of traditional braces that cover the forward-facing surfaces of your teeth, ask your orthodontist about the possibility of receiving lingual braces. These metal braces go on the inner tooth surfaces, making them invisible to the public.



Although some individuals find that lingual braces irritate the tongue, they don’t experience the tiny cuts and irritations of the inner lip tissues that labial braces can create. You can also apply dental wax to lingual braces, smoothing out their surfaces and protecting your tongue, without spoiling your smile.

3. Practice Self Care After a Tightening Session

Braces and aligners work their corrective magic gradually through incremental adjustments that tighten the pressure on teeth and encourage them to shift in the right directions. Every time you undergo one of these periodic adjustment sessions, you will likely experience some fresh discomfort for a few days afterward.



Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce and manage this temporary annoyance. Over-the-counter pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and a cold compress should control pain and swelling. Gentle gum massage to boost blood flow in the irritated areas can also help, as can sipping on cool water.

4. Take Advantage of the Latest Orthodontic Technologies

Orthodontic medicine continues to advance by leaps and bounds, introducing new treatments and technologies that can minimize pain and increase treatment effectiveness. One such advance, PROPEL VPro5, may reduce discomfort in orthodontic patients.


The PROPEL VPro5 includes a high-frequency vibration device that attaches to a mouthpiece. Just a few minutes of use each day allows the high-frequency vibrations to stimulate the teeth and bones, promoting minimized discomfort and promoting tissue healing. Some patients compare the sensation to a massage for the teeth and gums.


Rosen Orthodontics can help you make the right choices and implement the right strategies to enjoy the most comfortable and effective orthodontic experience possible. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and discuss your orthodontic options in detail.

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Maintaining Your Retainer: Tips From Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben at Rosen Orthodontics

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Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Now that you have a beautiful new smile, it's important to take steps to keep it that way. Retainers are an essential part of your orthodontic treatment and help maintain the alignment of your teeth. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben want to make sure that you know how to properly care for your removable Essix retainer and lingual bonded (permanent) retainer. Caring for Your Removable Essix Retainer Essix retainers are custom-made clear plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and help maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They're easy to wear and clean, but it's important to follow these tips to keep them in good condition: Wear your retainer as directed. Your orthodontist will instruct you on how often you need to wear your retainer. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully. Clean your retainer daily. Brush your retainer gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Rinse it thoroughly with cool water before and after each use. Store your retainer properly. When you're not wearing your retainer, keep it in its protective case to prevent it from getting lost or damaged. Avoid exposing your retainer to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Avoid eating with your retainer in. Remove your retainer before eating to prevent damage or staining. Replace your retainer when necessary. Over time, your retainer may become worn or damaged. If this happens, contact your orthodontist to have it replaced.  Caring for Your Lingual Bonded (Permanent) Retainer Lingual bonded retainers are a thin wire that's bonded to the back of your teeth, providing continuous support to keep your teeth in their corrected position. Here are some tips to keep your lingual bonded retainer in good condition: Brush and floss your teeth carefully. Brush and floss your teeth daily, paying extra attention to the area around the retainer. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use interdental brushes. An interdental brush can help you clean around the wire of your lingual bonded retainer more easily. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage your retainer. Cut up hard foods like apples before eating them. Wear a mouthguard during sports. If you play sports or engage in other physical activities, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your retainer. Visit your orthodontist regularly. Your orthodontist will monitor the condition of your lingual bonded retainer during your routine checkups. In conclusion, maintaining your retainer is an essential part of keeping your newly aligned smile. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben want to make sure that you know how to properly care for your removable Essix retainer and lingual bonded (permanent) retainer. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you maintain your beautiful new smile for years to come.

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Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your dental health and well-being. While some general dentists offer orthodontic treatment, it's essential to understand the value of seeing an orthodontist for your orthodontic needs. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben believe that seeing an orthodontist provides significant benefits to patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Expertise and Specialized Training Orthodontists are specialists who receive advanced education and training beyond dental school to become experts in orthodontic treatment. They complete an additional three years of post-graduate education focused solely on orthodontics. This specialized training allows orthodontists to diagnose and treat complex orthodontic problems that general dentists may not be trained to address. Customized Treatment Plans Orthodontic treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Every patient's orthodontic needs are different, and an orthodontist can provide a customized treatment plan tailored to each patient's specific needs. They take into account factors such as age, facial structure, and the severity of orthodontic issues to develop a plan that will be effective and efficient. Access to Advanced Technology Orthodontists have access to the latest technology and advancements in orthodontic treatment. They use digital imaging and advanced treatment planning software to create precise treatment plans and ensure the best possible outcome for their patients. They also use state-of-the-art equipment to provide the most comfortable and efficient treatment possible. Ongoing Care and Support Orthodontic treatment is a process that requires ongoing care and support. Orthodontists provide continued care to ensure that their patients' teeth stay in their new positions, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly. They also provide education and support to help their patients maintain good oral hygiene during and after treatment. In conclusion, seeing an orthodontist for your orthodontic needs provides numerous benefits, including specialized training and expertise, customized treatment plans, access to advanced technology, and ongoing care and support. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben are committed to providing the highest quality orthodontic treatment to their patients in Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and the surrounding North Shore suburbs. If you have any questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
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