01
Sep
Top 5 Orthodontic Options for a Straighter, Healthier Smile
Problems with crooked, misaligned, gapped, or crowded teeth are generally corrected with orthodontics. Understanding your orthodontic options in Chicago and Berwyn, Illinois, will enable you to make wise decisions concerning this treatment. When it comes to orthodontics, we recommend you choose a system you’re comfortable with and that aligns well with your lifestyle and budget.
To help you get started, Drs. Marcella Guzman, Philip Fidel, and Rosa Sinno from A Brush Above Family Dentistry have listed five orthodontic options we feel are worth considering here:
1. Clear Aligners
Clear aligners are custom-made, removable trays worn over your teeth to slowly and methodically move them to a straighter position. Made of clear plastic, the aligners are more comfortable and more discreet than metal braces. To be effective, the trays need to be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, with removal for eating and oral hygiene. Details on aligner use, care, and oral hygiene are provided within your treatment plan.
2. Traditional Metal Braces
Traditional metal braces are stainless steel brackets and wires that are permanently attached to your teeth for the duration of your treatment. They work by exerting gentle pressure on your teeth to move them into alignment slowly. Every four weeks or so, the braces are tightened to increase the pressure and keep your teeth steadily moving toward their final destination. Unlike aligners, which have limits, metal braces can correct severe bite, crowding, and spacing issues to realign your smile perfectly.
3. Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces; only the brackets and wires are tooth-colored or clear for a more discreet appearance. They’re more effective than aligners for severe issues and less obvious than metal braces when it comes to aesthetics. Be advised that the clear or white ligatures that hold the wire in place can discolor easily when exposed to too much coffee, wine, or tea. The ceramic brackets are also more vulnerable to chipping.
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4. Lingual Braces
Lingual braces also utilize brackets and wires to align your teeth. However, they’re attached to the back of your teeth, instead of the front, hidden from people’s view. As they’re on the same side as your tongue, they may, in the beginning, interfere with your speech. They also make brushing and flossing more of a challenge. As they require special customization and lab work to create, lingual braces are more costly as well.
5. Cosmetic Treatments Like Bonding & Veneers
Cosmetic bonding and veneers provide an “instant orthodontic look” without actually moving your teeth. They’re often used to conceal small gaps between teeth or reshape slightly crooked or uneven teeth to give your smile a straighter-looking appearance. Improvements made with porcelain veneers can last 15 or more years!
Best Orthodontic Treatments Near Me
Learn more about your orthodontic options to improve your smile’s health and beauty at A Brush Above Family Dentistry. We’re located in Chicago but also serve residents in Berwyn, IL. To schedule a consultation, contact us at (773) 840-0378.
Dr. Marcella Guzman
Dr. Marcella Guzman is an admired dental professional renowned for her unwavering commitment to excellence in patient care, with a rich background in biology and sociology. Since graduating from The University of Illinois Dental School in 1994, she has enhanced her skills through extensive continuing education, specializing in cutting-edge technologies such as Cerec 3-D, sleep apnea, Invisalign, and laser dentistry. Her dedication to staying up-to-date on the latest advancements ensures that her patients receive top-notch care. A distinguished member of The American Dental Association and Chicago Dental Society, Dr. Guzman's wealth of experience, coupled with her compassionate approach, establishes her as a trusted specialist in the field of dentistry.
Dr. Phillip Fidel
Philip Fidel, DDS, graduated from the University of California Davis in 1981 and attended Northwestern Dental School in Chicago. He has been providing exceptional dental care via private practice in Chicago ever since. Dr. Fidel believes learning is a never-ending process and has completed advanced training in CEREC 3-D technology, laser, and implant dentistry.
Dr. Rosa Sinno
Rosa Sinno, DDS, graduated from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and received her dental degree from the University of Illinois Dental School in 2006. After five years of practicing in Chicago, she moved to New York City, where she continued to treat patients and ran a successful office in Midtown Manhattan. She also followed a year-long intensive training program at the renowned Rosenthal Institute for Aesthetic Dentistry at NYU College of Dentistry. She has also completed training in Invisalign, CEREC 3-D technology, and laser dentistry. In 2017, Dr. Sinno moved back to her hometown of Chicago.
Dr. Irbad Chowdhury
Irbad Chowdhury, DMD, DABOI, AFAAID, FAGD, FICD, FICOI, received his dental degree and completed his residency in Advanced Education in General Dentistry and Implant Fellowship at the Southern Illinois University (SIU) School of Dental Medicine. He is board-certified in dental implants and is also an advanced dentistry expert. After completing his residency and private practice in Saint Louis, MO, Dr. Chowdhury moved to Chicago.
A former faculty and clinical professor at SIU School of Dental Medicine, he now serves as a clinical instructor/professor at Midwestern University Dental School.
Dr. Shoshana Center
Shoshana Center, DMD, is a highly skilled dentist dedicated to providing exceptional dental care focusing on patient comfort and education. Since graduating from Southern Illinois School of Dental Medicine in 2022, she has specialized in Invisalign and CEREC 3-D technology for same-day crowns and onlays. Dr. Center is passionate about esthetic dentistry, including implant restoration, and is committed to staying at the forefront of dental advancements through continuous education. As a member of the American Dental Association and Illinois State Dental Society, she is trusted for her expertise and dedication to clinical excellence.
All these providers aim to deliver exceptional patient care focused on health, function, comfort, and aesthetic beauty. They take pride in listening to patients’ concerns and tailoring each visit to their individual needs. Full patient-oriented dental care backed by patient-empowered decisions is what they intend to deliver in providing patients with the ultimate dental experience.