Lake Forest Smiles offers the Invisalign® orthodontic system in which a series of clear, removable aligners are used to gradually straighten teeth more discreetly than traditional metal braces. We also offer traditional braces that are usually worn for one to three years, depending on the patient’s age and the severity of the misalignment. In some cases, patients can achieve their desired results by simply wearing a retainer. Please contact our team to schedule an orthodontic consultation if you would like to see which treatment option is right for you.
Traditional Orthodontics
Traditional bracket and wire braces can correct even the most severely misaligned smiles. Brackets are placed on the front-facing surfaces of teeth, and a series of wires and bands are connected to the brackets and adjusted to place pressure on teeth. The crowns of teeth gradually shift into position, and the pressure on the top portion of teeth causes the underlying, supportive root structure to shift into ideal alignment. Traditional braces take between 18 and 24 months to complete and require patients to attend frequent orthodontic appointments.
Invisalign
A more cosmetic alternative to traditional orthodontics, Invisalign gently, and slowly shifts teeth into alignment over the course of about a year. Rather than brackets and wires attached to teeth, the Invisalign system uses a series of clear, plastic aligners to gently shift teeth. Each set of alignment trays represents one step closer to the desired result. Aligners are worn for about two weeks, and then patients switch to a new set. With Invisalign, you do not have to change your diet or oral hygiene routine. Aligners should be worn for 22-24 hours a day but can be removed to eat, drink, or perform oral hygiene.
Fastbraces
Fastbraces closely resemble traditional bracket and wire braces, but they are able to more quickly achieve the desired orthodontic results. This is possible due to the unique, triangular design of the Fastbraces brackets. Rather than shifting first the visible portion of the tooth and then the roots, Fastbraces are designed to move the entire tooth simultaneously, cutting treatment time in half for many patients. Many patients report the innovative bracket design also improves the comfort of orthodontic care compared with traditional bracket and wire systems.
How to Get Started
The first step is scheduling a consultation with Lake Forest Smiles. A thorough examination will be performed, which may include diagnostic X-rays for the dentist to see the roots of your teeth. During your consultation, let the dentist know about your smile goals, and how soon you wish to see results.
Orthodontics in Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lincolnshire
Straight teeth not only look attractive but are easier to clean, which could improve your overall oral health. Whether you are interested in traditional braces or discreetly straighten your teeth with Invisalign, Lake Forest Smiles can help. To get started or learn which orthodontic treatment is right for you, contact Drs. Campbell and Schmidt by calling (847) 234-4800. Lake Forest Smiles has been providing elite dental care to the communities of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and Lincolnshire for more than 30 years. We welcome you to our practice.
