Orthodontic Appliances

Palatal Expander

Grayslake, IL – Palatal expanders seek to accomplish exactly what the name says – expand the palate. But how exactly does it work, and will your child need one?

A palate that is too narrow can lead to crooked and overcrowded teeth. A palatal expander can be a wonderful option for younger orthodontic patients who have jaws that are still growing. The expander can work to widen the palate to allow for teeth to be realigned with adequate space.

Palatal Expanders

Grayslake And Round Lake, IL – The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that children visit the orthodontist for the first time around the age of seven. For some people ther may seem too young, but it is the ideal time for several reasons. The most important reason is that by starting a relationship with an orthodontist early, the orthodontist can take advantage of a jaw that is still growing.

Lower-Lingual-Holding-Arch

Kenilworth, IL – Every orthodontic patient presents with a slightly different malocclusion – that is because each orthodontic issue is as individual as the patient is. But luckily for patients seeking out orthodontic treatment today, there are a variety of technologically advanced treatment options to help correct their issues. One appliance that Dr. Sara Spector uses is the lower lingual holding arch.

Kenilworth, IL – Self-ligating braces have become a more popular orthodontic treatment option recently, thanks in part to the marketing behind them. Makers of these braces claim faster and more comfortable treatment times. But they also make the claim that self-ligating braces can eliminate the need for tooth extractions or the use of palatal expanders.

Dr. Sara Spector, an orthodontics expert in the Chicago-area, believes these claims are not accurate, however.

Temporary Anchorage Devices

For orthodontic patients with certain malocclusions, braces alone cannot create the ideal bite needed for a healthy and stable smile. Orthodontists use appliances such as headgear and elastics, and in extreme cases even surgery, to ensure patients have properly functioning bites. Temporary anchorage devices are a great tool many orthodontists use instead of headgear or surgery for eligible patients.

Retainers Guide

1- Retainer 101 – Why do patients need retainers, when are they used, why are they important?

    • Why are retainers used in orthodontic treatment?
      Retainers are used to retain the new teeth position after the smile has been corrected through braces or iDentity clear aligner treatment.
    • Why are retainers sometimes used before braces treatment?
      Retainers are not used prior to braces. Phase 1 orthodontic appliances may resemble retainers, however, they are not – retainers are used only after treatment to ensure the teeth retain their new locations.
    • Why are retainers so important during orthodontic treatment?
      Retainers are a crucial part of your orthodontic treatment. If you have worn braces or had iDentity clear aligner treatment, you’ve worked hard to ensure a beautiful smile at the end of that treatment. But, if you won’t wear your retainer exactly as your orthodontist recommends, you may see that smile start to slip away.
iDentity Orthodontics