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Are Braces in Your Future?

January 17, 2023

Braces are often a rite of passage during a child's teenage years that sets the stage for a perfect smile during their adult years. But this is not the only time people wear braces. Nowadays, more and more adults are getting braces. Is there such a thing as being too young or too old to get them? What are their purpose, benefits, and alternatives? Read on before you make your decision.


What Is the Purpose of Braces?


The purpose for seeking braces is one of the first questions you must answer. Contrary to popular belief, braces can do far more than create a dazzling smile.


There are two sides to orthodontics. One side creates better aesthetics, but the other addresses pressing health issues. If not addressed, these issues may make it difficult for you to eat or speak. Some common problems braces address includes the following:


  • Underbites
  • Overbites
  • Crossbites
  • Open bites
  • Misalignment
  • Spacing issues
  • Crowding issues


Orthodontic treatments can also address gum and jaw issues. Some of these conditions include:


  • Teeth grinding
  • Jaw alignment problems
  • Gum disease
  • Tooth loss


No matter the patient’s age, these issues should be addressed right away.


What Is the Current Status of the Teeth?


When considering braces for a young child, you need to consider whether they have lost their baby teeth and grown most of their permanent teeth. The last baby teeth are generally lost between the ages of 9 and 12, although it can vary from child to child. 


Your orthodontist may also want to wait until your child's 12-year molars erupt. These teeth are appropriately named as they generally come in between ages 12 and 13. These are the last teeth your child cuts until their third molars or wisdom teeth come in.


Before your child grows their 12-year molars, they are often still losing their baby teeth. Their jaw is also still growing to accommodate the size of their permanent teeth. 


If you are considering braces as an adult, there is no maximum age that they will be beneficial. The lack of an age limit is especially true if the braces address other health issues or medical discomfort you are experiencing. 


What Are the Benefits of Getting Braces?


Although braces may correct a dental problem, they also provide better aesthetics. Because you cannot discount the benefits of a better smile! Once your orthodontist removes your braces, it is one of the most obvious benefits. 


A great smile changes your appearance and enhances your confidence. Studies have shown that smiling more can relieve stress, lower your heart rate, and boost your job performance. 


What Are the Alternatives to Traditional Metal Braces?


Whether you purchase braces for your child or yourself, there are numerous alternatives to traditional metal braces on the market. Most of the other options are less bulky and more aesthetically pleasing. Some of the common choices currently on the market include the following:


  • Ceramic (clear) braces
  • Invisalign
  • Lingual (hidden) braces


Each of these has pros and cons. Many are less visible than their metal counterparts, but unfortunately, some options may not address your specific dental problems. Other options may also be more expensive than their traditional counterpart. The best way to find out which braces would work for you is to speak to an orthodontist. 


At Rosen Orthodontics, we would love to work with you to get you started on your orthodontic journey. We treat patients of all ages and can offer many options for those who do not want to wear traditional metal braces. Call us today and make an appointment for your complimentary consultation and examination! 

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In our Highland Park, IL, orthodontic office and our Buffalo Grove, IL, orthodontic office, Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina are dedicated to utilizing the latest advancements in orthodontic technology to transform smiles. Our commitment to excellence extends to every aspect of your orthodontic journey, from the initial consultation to the final result. Digital Imaging: A Clearer Picture At our practice, we utilize state-of-the-art digital imaging techniques to capture precise images of your teeth and surrounding structures. By incorporating digital technology into our diagnostic process, we can provide a more accurate assessment of your orthodontic needs and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your unique smile. Customized Treatment Planning: Tailored Solutions for Every Smile Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina understand that every smile is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to treatment planning. Using advanced digital technology, we can create virtual models of your teeth and simulate various treatment scenarios to determine the most effective course of action for achieving your desired outcome. Evidence-Based Benefits Our commitment to excellence is supported by a wealth of research and evidence in the field of orthodontics. Numerous studies have demonstrated the superior accuracy and effectiveness of digital imaging and customized treatment planning compared to traditional methods. When you choose our practice for your orthodontic care, you can trust that you're receiving the highest standard of treatment available. Transform Your Smile with Us If you're ready to experience the transformative benefits of orthodontic technology, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with at our practice serving Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and the surrounding suburbs of Deerfield, Riverwoods, Northbrook, Wheeling and Arlington Heights. Contact us today to take the first step towards achieving the smile of your dreams by scheduling your complimentary consultation, and discover the difference that personalized orthodontic care can make in your smile journey!

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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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