Orthodontist

Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing, preventing, and treating misalignments of the teeth and jaws. An orthodontist is a dental specialist who has completed an additional two to three years of education and training beyond dental school to become an orthodontic specialist. At Clark Ortho, our orthodontists diagnose and treat misaligned teeth, jaws, and bite problems. Choosing to see an orthodontist is an important decision that can benefit your entire family. Misaligned teeth can lead to several issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, especially when the teeth are harder to clean. When wisdom teeth grow crooked, they can also impact the other teeth. Treating these problems early on can prevent more complex issues from developing later in the future. 

The Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

• A straighter smile can boost your confidence and self-esteem. With a healthy, gorgeous-looking smile, you can feel better about your appearance and gain the self-confidence you deserve.
• Oral health can improve with treatment. In addition to straightening teeth, many orthodontic appliances can help correct bite issues and jaw misalignment. These enhance the look of your smile and offer cleaning benefits.
• When you have crooked or misaligned teeth, reaching your molars with your toothbrush, floss, or other dental hygiene products can be more complex. Imperfections can also trap food particles within the creases of the teeth and can foster the development of plaque and tartar buildup. Orthodontic treatment can help strengthen teeth for easier cleaning and better oral health.
• Treatment can help prevent the need for more advanced care in the future. Some patients may believe orthodontics is only for kids. However, it is always possible for adults to straighten their teeth and achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile. If you avoid seeking treatment now, you may eventually need more complex procedures, such as oral surgery, to treat alignment issues if left untreated.

Types of Orthodontic Treatments

Traditional Metal Braces

With advancements in technology, metal braces are now smaller and less noticeable. The brackets are bonded to the front of your teeth and are connected with wires that gradually shift them into place. These braces are available in various colors to create a more aesthetic appeal while making them resistant to staining.

Ceramic Braces

Ceramic braces are similar to metal braces, made entirely from a transparent material. This makes them less visible on your teeth than metal braces. They are often used when patients have aesthetic concerns or want their braces unnoticeable.

Invisalign

Invisalign is an alternative to traditional metal and clear braces. It consists of clear aligners worn over your teeth to slowly reposition and correct your bite. Patients love Invisalign because their aligners are removable and utterly invisible to the naked eye. They allow you to brush, floss normally, and eat your favorite foods without dietary restrictions. Invisalign is customized to your mouth with impressions taken by our orthodontists.

Teens and adults who want to improve their smile should consult with our orthodontist to receive an accurate diagnosis before beginning treatment. Visit Clark Ortho at 23 North Main Street, Lombard, IL 60148, for the best dental care.