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Braces v Aligners

May 14, 2024

How to Decide Between Braces and Aligners


Choosing between braces and aligners is a significant decision when embarking on your orthodontic journey. At our orthodontic practice serving Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and surrounding suburbs including Deerfield, Highwood, Northbrook, Arlington Heights Riverwoods, and Lake Forest, Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina are committed to helping you make the best choice for your smile. Here are some factors to consider when deciding between braces and aligners:


Treatment Goals


Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina understand that every smile is unique, which is why we take the time to listen to your goals and concerns before recommending a treatment option. Whether you're looking to address overcrowding, spacing, or bite issues, we will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs and fits your lifestyle.


Aesthetic Preferences


For patients who value discretion, clear aligners offer a virtually invisible treatment option. Aligners are transparent and removable, allowing you to straighten your teeth discreetly without the appearance of traditional braces. However, if you prefer a more traditional approach, braces are an effective and reliable option for achieving a beautiful smile. Additionally, you may be a candidate for lingual braces, such as INBRACE, which allows you the best of both worlds: ultimate aesthetics with the benefits of fixed appliances.


Lifestyle Considerations


Aligners offer greater flexibility and convenience compared to braces. Because they are removable, you can eat, drink, and maintain oral hygiene with ease. However, aligners require strict compliance, as they must be worn for 20-22 hours per day to achieve optimal results. Braces, on the other hand, are fixed in place and require fewer adjustments, making them a convenient option for patients with busy lifestyles.


Complexity of Treatment


The complexity of your orthodontic issues may influence your choice between braces and aligners. While aligners are suitable for mild to moderate cases of crowding, spacing, and bite issues, braces may be necessary for more severe or complex orthodontic problems. Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina will evaluate your individual case and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for achieving your desired outcome.


Cost and Insurance Coverage


Cost is another factor to consider when choosing between braces and aligners. While the cost of treatment varies depending on factors such as the complexity of your case and the duration of treatment, braces tend to be more cost-effective than aligners in many cases. Additionally, insurance coverage may differ between the two treatment options, so it's essential to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.


Make an Informed Decision with Us


If you're unsure whether braces or aligners are right for you, contact our office today to schedule a complimentary consultation with at our practice serving Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and the surrounding suburbs. We will assess your orthodontic needs, discuss your treatment options, and help you make an informed decision about your smile journey.

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Orthodontic Technology Advancements: How Digital Imaging and Customized Treatment Planning are Transforming Treatment

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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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Choosing between braces and aligners is a significant decision when embarking on your orthodontic journey. This blog reviews factors to consider when deciding between the two.

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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.

Why It's Important to See an Orthodontist for Your Orthodontic Needs: Insights from Dr Ben and Dr Kristina at Rosen Orthodontics

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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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