The Types of Braces Your Orthodontist Uses Matters

Kelly Orthodontics

Your smile has an effect on your whole life. At Kelly Orthodontics, we offer three types of braces to help transform your smile.

Victory Series Braces Low Profile Braces - Metal braces are the most common type of braces used in our practice because they are robust and remarkably effective. However, unlike earlier metal braces, the Victory SeriesLow Profile Braces System incorporates a low-profile approach that enhances both aesthetics and patient comfort. Since the brackets and tubes come with a pre-applied, light-sensitive adhesive that enables patients to have controlled, efficient bonding with less waste, trouble and time, the Victory Series is popular with our patients. The bonding pads curve to match the shape of your tooth to provide exact results. The brackets are also color-coded to help your Dr. Kelly quickly and effectively treat each tooth individually.

Clear Aligners - Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that straightens teeth without the use of metal braces. Invisalign uses a series of custom-made clear trays that cover your teeth and gently push them into the proper position over time. Because they are clear and can be taken on and off, they are less noticeable than traditional braces. With Invisalign clear aligners there are no metal brackets or wires to detract from your smile while undergoing treatment. Invisalign clear aligners are made from BPA-free plastic, and they are often more comfortable than traditional silver braces. Clear aligners are used to close gaps between teeth, as well as treating overbites, underbites, open bites, crossbites, and overcrowded teeth. However, certain types of orthodontic problems still require braces on the teeth to be corrected. Children, teenagers, and adults can wear Invisalign.

Clarity Ceramic Braces - Ceramic braces work just like traditional silver braces, however, they are made of a tooth-colored ceramic material and are nearly invisible. Clarity Ceramic Braces offer the ultimate combination of aesthetics and performance to our patients. They are ultra-small translucent brackets, made of an innovative ceramic material for an attractive appearance. They are designed to blend with your natural tooth color and are resistant to staining and discoloration throughout treatment. Clarity Ceramic Braces also have dome-shaped design to aid in patient comfort.

At Kelly Orthodontics we are serious about getting the best possible result with the least amount of discomfort in the fastest time possible. Schedule your complimentary consultation today and smile with confidence tomorrow.

Orthodontic Treatment Options

Kelly Orthodontics

A variety of orthodontic options exist today for people looking to correct their smile. From traditional metal braces to Invisalign aligners, it can be a challenge to decide which choice is the best. At Kelly Orthodontics, we know about all of the treatment options on the market, and which is the best option for your specific orthodontic problem.

Metal Braces - Metal braces are the most common type of braces because they are robust and very effective. Metal braces are made of sleek surgical steel and titanium and are comfortable to wear. Metal braces are bonded to the teeth and connected with a metal archwire brought into place with tiny elastic bands. Metal braces require periodic tightening every 4 to 6 weeks. The steady pressure will gradually straighten your teeth and align your jaw over time. Metal braces can correct a wide variety of issues, including jaw problems,crooked teeth, and bite misalignments. Silver braces are a proven method for getting a lifelong, healthy bite.

Ceramic Braces - Clear ceramic braces are a popular choice for teens who want to make a lasting impression and adults who want to make a less noticeable statement during treatment. Ceramic Braces work like metal braces only better, because they blend in with your natural tooth color for a great look. Ceramic Braces are similar to Silver braces in their application, duration of treatment, and removal and are used to correct the same dental issues as metal braces and invisible aligners. Since ceramic braces are designed to blend seamlessly into your smile, Dr. Kelly will select the perfect shade to match your natural tooth color. For those with naturally whiter teeth, a clear ceramic is used to render the brackets almost invisible. Those with darker tooth shades have the option to select colored ceramic matched to their teeth for best aesthetic results. The metal archwire is similarly colored to complement your teeth, and the elastic bands are typically clear.

Clear Aligners - Unlike silver and ceramic braces, clear aligners, like Invisalign, use clear trays to help you achieve a straight smile. The clear aligner trays are removable, which means that when you need to take them out, you can. It also means that you can continue to take care of your teeth normally, and continue to eat the wonderful foods you love. Typically, clear aligners work faster than traditional braces, meaning that you can effectively straighten your teeth faster. Each set of aligner trays are designed to fit your mouth and your teeth comfortably. Clear aligners have no metal to cause mouth abrasions during treatment.

Which orthodontic treatment option is best for you?

Dr. Kelly uses of the full range of orthodontic appliances to get you a great outcome in the shortest possible amount of time. Based on his specialty education in orthodontics, Dr. Kelly will recommend the treatment option he believes is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.

 

Book an initial consultation with Kelly Orthodontics to talk about your options regarding orthodontic treatment. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

 

Selfies 101

Kelly Orthodontics

Selfies have been popular for years now…but do you know how to take the perfect one? At first it may have seemed a little ridiculous, all these people taking photos of themselves and posting them online. But did you know that taking selfies is a fantastic way to show off your personality and confidence…not to mention your Kelly Orthodontics smile?

Taking a selfie is an art form. A great selfie is more than just a quick camera click, it actually takes a level of skill to capture and edit the perfect picture. After some practice (using our tried-and-true techniques below) we know you will be a selfie master in no time at all.

5 Tips for the Perfect Selfie

1. Have Expression. You can never go wrong with smiling…but don’t fake it. Think about something that really does make you smile. Pull out a wonderful memory, relive it, and we promise that you’re going to have a beautiful facial expression in your selfie. Play around with different smiles and expressions and have fun! No matter what, a smile is the best expression you can wear.  
2. Capture Your Best Angle. We all have a particular side or angle that we feel looks much better in selfies. If you haven’t yet found yours, try moving the phone around your face and snapping a ton of photos. Instead of taking pictures head-on, turn your head a little to the right or left, or hold your camera a little higher…try different angles to show off your best features. Then pick the photos that you like most and remember the way you placed the phone and the way you turned your face. 
3. Focus on Lighting. Lighting is everything. They say that taking selfies using natural light is great. But the truth is that sometimes the rays can be too harsh on the face, so avoid snapping a shot during midday. You can always find a light source inside, just make sure that it’s not located behind you and that there are no shadows on your face. 
4. Show Off Something New. If you decide to take a selfie to show off something new, like…oh we don’t know, maybe your braces, make sure that you frame the photo in a way that highlights the new accessory that has you so excited. 
5. Don't Use a Mirror. Just stretch your arm out, point the camera toward your face and click. You can use your front facing camera to make it easier!

Ok, now you’re ready! Upload those selfies to all of your feeds…Instagram, Facebook, anywhere and everywhere. Are you a patient of Kelly Orthodontics? Then tag us in your selfies, we would love to see your smiling faces!

 

 

5 Reasons to Love Your Braces

Kelly Orthodontics

Your braces are an investment in your smile, your health, and your overall well-being. Braces can transform your teeth, give you a more comfortable bite, and give you a beautiful smile that will boost your confidence.

Braces can solve almost any orthodontic issue. Braces are customized to suit your needs and can help to improve a wide range of orthodontic issues. Whether you have a crossbite, crowding, or an overbite, braces treatment can help. Therefore, if you would really like to straighten your teeth, braces are your best option.

Braces enhance your natural teeth. Rather than covering your smile with veneers, braces can fix your natural teeth. Not to mention, braces are cheaper than most of these transformative cosmetic dentistry procedures.

Straight teeth are healthy teeth. Braces don’t just enhance your smile; they can improve your oral health too. Straight teeth are easier to clean. When your teeth are easier to brush and floss, you are less likely to develop cavities or infections. Oral health problems like worn enamel, gum recession, and side effects of grinding and clenching your teeth are also eliminated when teeth are shifted into proper alignment with braces.

Braces can be discrete. If you would like to avoid the metal brackets on your teeth, you have options. For example, Ceramic braces, work like metal braces…only better. Ceramic braces blend in with your teeth for a great look. You’ll be able to straighten your teeth without anyone noticing.

The results are incredible! With braces, you can get the beautiful straight smile you’ve always wanted. Not to mention, having straighter teeth can improve your facial profile, align your jaw, and fix your bite…drastically improving your appearance.

Remember, braces are temporary. If you want to learn more about how braces can improve your smile, call Kelly Orthodontics to schedule an appointment. From conventional metal braces to Invisalign Dr. Kelly and his team have you covered!

 

Smile...It's 2022!

Kelly Orthodontics

It’s a new year! What better time than the New Year to focus on your well-being. This includes your orthodontic care. Addressing your orthodontic concerns in the new year not only leads to a new smile, but carries a host of other benefits, too.

For many adults and teens, crooked or imperfect teeth can have a negative impact on their self-confidence. If you are embarrassed by your smile, chances are the people around you are missing out on how approachable, confident, and knowledgeable you really are. By fixing your smile, you can boost your self-esteem and be more open and engaged with the people around you.

Moreover, what’s going on in your mouth is connected to your overall physical health. Studies have shown that gum disease is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and poor oral hygiene increases the risk of bacterial infections in the blood. The American Dental Association reports that misaligned teeth are also linked to strokes, pneumonia, and diabetes.

When your teeth are spaced correctly, those nooks and crannies that once were more prone to harboring bacteria are now more easily reached. With straighter teeth, you can more effectively clean against toothdecay, gum disease, and cavities.

At Kelly Orthodontics, we practice the most innovative orthodontic care with amazing results. We make the process of getting straight teeth as quick, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. Our orthodontic services include:

Invisalign - This popular orthodontic treatment uses a series of clear aligners that change the position of your teeth through steady pressure. The aligners are clear and difficult to detect during wear, perfect for adults and teens who want a subtle treatment solution. Invisalign can be used to treat some of the most common cosmetic dental problems, such as gaps between teeth, overbites, underbites, and mouth crowding.

Traditional Braces - Metal braces are the most common option for a variety of reasons, including durability and cost. While they have been around for decades, constant innovation means that metal braces are more advanced than ever before and are a great option for straightening teeth, especially in severe cases.

Ceramic Braces - While they work similarly to metal braces, ceramic braces are a popular choice among many patients because they are less visible due to their clear color. If you want spectacular results without the aesthetic concerns caused by metal braces, ceramic braces may be a great option for you.

When you look good, you feel good. It’s no secret that straight, properly spaced teeth help you face the world with more confidence. The team at Kelly Orthodontics knows that making the decision to have a healthy smile is a great start to the new year! Don’t let anything hold you back from achieving your dreams, especially not your less-than-perfect smile. Take the first step towards your New Year’s resolution by scheduling a complimentary orthodontic consultation with Dr. Dan Kelly! Contact us today and start your journey to a beautiful new smile!

 

Affordable Orthodontic Care

Kelly Orthodontics

If you recently learned that orthodontic treatment is in your or your child’s future, remain calm and rest assured that Kelly Orthodontics will help you each step of the way.

Dr. Dan Kelly and his team are aware that people have finite budgets. Juggling expenses is a fact of life. Our office is accustomed to working with families and individuals to make orthodontic care affordable and budget friendly.

First…make an appointment with our St. Charles, Illinois office. New patient exams are always complimentary. During this initial exam, a comprehensive clinical examination will be performed to determine the need for orthodontic treatment. If Dr. Kelly feels treatment is necessary, he will explain appropriate recommendations and answer any questions you may have. One of the things that make Kelly Orthodontics unique is that the doctor performs this initial examination himself. We feel that this personalized approach makes our office very approachable and responsive to your questions.

It may be a pleasant surprise to learn how truly affordable orthodontic care is today. Monthly payments can be no more than the cost of your mobile phone plan…but the benefits last a lot longer. At the end of the day, orthodontic care is a lifetime investment in your or your child’s health and appearance, and payment plans make care quite manageable.

Do you have insurance to help pay for treatment? For your convenience, we assist you by verifying insurance coverage and submitting insurance claims pertaining to charges for care rendered in our office. Orthodontic insurance differs from general dental insurance in that each insured individual has a lifetime maximum benefit for orthodontic services. This benefit is paid as a percentage of the orthodontic fee and can offset the total treatment cost. We can even help you strategize how to maximize your benefits so you can minimize your out-of-pocket costs.

How can you afford braces without insurance? When it comes to paying for braces, you have options.

Choose a low-cost option. At Kelly Orthodontics, we offer affordable braces. Meaning, we have braces that require fewer office visits and braces that are made with more cost-effective materials. These more affordable options will help reduce the cost of your treatment overall.

Ask for a payment plan. We offer several payment programs including interest-free financing, prepayment discounts, and extended third party financing. We also have a multiple family member discount policy. These types of plans help tremendously when investing in affordable braces for you or your child.

Use your Flexible Spending Account. Even if your dental plan does not cover orthodontics, your employer might offer a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). The money you put into this account is not taxed, which means your dollars will go further. Contribute the maximum amount and use these funds to pay for expenses not covered by insurance, including braces.

Though orthodontics can come with a higher price tag, you do have many options to help you pay for your or your child’s orthodontic care. Start by having a conversation with Dr. Dan Kelly…then begin your journey toward an improved smile.

 

 

Scheduling Orthodontic Appointments With Kelly Orthodontics

Kelly Orthodontics

For many of us, making doctor appointments is a troubling task. Easily forgotten and always hard to fit into our busy weeks, especially with schedules that seem to change frequently.

If you are trying to schedule your initial appointment with Kelly Orthodontics but aren’t sure about the specifics, such as how to request an appointment or what exactly you need to be seen for, don’t worry…these are common concerns that many of our patients share. At Kelly Orthodontics, we want to make every step as simple as can be.

Whether you need to schedule an appointment for braces, a retainer, or other orthodontic issues, Dr. Dan Kelly will investigate any abnormalities that you or your dentist may have noticed to give a better vision for the future of your teeth. Visiting our office should be done anytime you have a concern or issue with the placement of your teeth, jaw, or general alignment within your mouth. Keeping your teeth healthy, straight, strong, and beautiful is a joint effort between you and Dr. Kelly, so it’s important to be sure you are on the right track moving forward with your oral health.

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to your or your child’s orthodontic treatment.

Our team believes each smile is unique and feel that it is especially important to listen to your concerns, your specific needs, and your preferences. This is just part of what makes us one of the best orthodontic offices in the St. Charles, Illinois area. Kelly Orthodontics has been a respected provider of orthodontic care in our community for over 40 years and is looking forward to educating you on your best options for creating your new smile.

At Kelly Orthodontics, you have a few options for requesting your appointment. Below are the ways you can do this:

Call Our Office. Give us a call and discuss how to set up an appointment with Dr. Kelly. Calling our St. Charles office is one of the easiest ways to get your appointment finalized and is an effortless way to find a time that works with your schedule.

Request Online. Requesting an orthodontic appointment online via our website is another easy way to fit an appointment into your schedule. Simply fill out the form on our request page and one of our team members will contact you to finalize and confirm your appointment.

Stop By. If you’re in the St. Charles, Illinois area, stop in and set up your appointment in person. You can get a feel for the office when you're inside, and it makes it quite easy to ask any questions you may have about the appointment that you’re requesting to schedule.

Always remember…you are never too old for orthodontic treatment as long as you have healthy teeth and gums. Dr. Kelly is an expert in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. He possesses the skills and experience needed to give you your best smile.

Dr. Dan Kelly and the Kelly Orthodontic Team have a mission to not only give you a more beautiful smile but to also provide an extremely pleasant experience in our family-friendly environment. Visit us today!

 

Handling Orthodontics Issues at Home

Kelly Orthodontics

Even though you are careful, you may occasionally damage your braces or orthodontic appliance. While there are steps you can take to temporarily fix or alleviate discomfort and prevent additional damage, you should always notify our office if you have any issues or concerns. 

At Kelly Orthodontics, we want our patients to be informed of problems that may occur, and understand how to solve them, at least temporarily, until it is possible to return to our office. With the tools and supplies listed below, you will be prepared to handle the most common orthodontic issues at home.

• Orthodontic Wax
• Dental Floss 
• Tweezers
• Q-tips 
• Salt 
• Interproximal Brush 
• Toothpicks 
• Non-prescription Pain Reliever  
• Topical Anesthetic (such as Orabase or Ora-Gel)

Below are some typical orthodontic issues and how you can solve them:

Discomfort - It’s normal to have some initial discomfort during orthodontic treatment as your teeth move. Rinsing your mouth with warm salt water and over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may alleviate this discomfort.  If the discomfort lasts longer than a couple days, be sure to call our office.

If food becomes stuck between your teeth, use dental floss or a proxy brush to dislodge the food. If you cut your gums, tongue or the inside of your cheek, apply finger pressure to the bleeding site for several minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, call your family dentist or our office.

Minor irritations and canker sores will heal more quickly if you apply Zylactin or Orabase according to the manufacturer's directions. You can purchase it over the counter at most pharmacies and convenient stores.

Loose or Poking Archwires - If a wire causes irritation, push the wire away from the area using the eraser end of a pencil or a Q-tip. If the wire cannot be tucked away, cover the end of the wire with a small piece of wax or a cotton ball until you can see us for an adjustment.

If the main wire has come out of the tube on the back tooth, attempt to reinsert the wire with a pair of needle-nose pliers or tweezers. If the wire is sticking you, place a piece of wax over the area. As a last resort, if you cannot come into our office, the wire can be cut with a small wire cutter or fingernail clippers close to the back of the last brace.

Loose Brackets or Bands - If a bracket becomes loose, it usually remains connected to the main wire by a little colored rubber ring or a small steel ligature tie. Tweezers can be used to reposition the brace if it flips around the wire and becomes a source of irritation. Call our office and inform us of the problem. If a piece of your braces break, save the piece and call our office to schedule a repair visit.

There will be normal, day-to-day discomfort associated with wearing braces, if you have any questions about your orthodontic treatment, or if you think you may have a true orthodontic emergency, don’t hesitate to call our St. Charles orthodontic office…We are here help!

Straight Teeth Matter

Kelly Orthodontics

The benefit of straight teeth is not only for aesthetics. Straight teeth provide more than a great smile.

For starters, straight teeth are easier to clean. When teeth are rotated and overlapped, more nooks and crannies exist where plaque bacteria can build up. Even with proper brushing and flossing, some areas may be difficult to clean and will have a higher risk of forming a cavity. Straighter teeth allow for easier cleaning and lower cavity risk.

Just like how misaligned teeth can cause cavities, they can also result in gum disease. Because misaligned teeth are more difficult to keep clean, the build-up of plaque bacteria can cause gum inflammation that may potentially lead to gingivitis and periodontitis. Also, gum recession can occur in areas with crowding due to difficulty with brushing.   

Even if your front teeth appear straight, there can be a problem with your bite. Added wear of teeth, chipping of teeth, and teeth grinding are very common problems when an improper bite is present. Jawbone and joint problems can also develop, leading to breakdown of the bones that support your teeth as well as TMJ pain, headaches, and migraines. All of this can make it difficult to talk and chew food efficiently and comfortably.

The most notable benefit of straight teeth is the improvement to facial aesthetics. Teeth in proper alignment look nice when talking and smiling. When teeth are crooked or the bite is off, it can change the shape of the face. Teeth with extreme overbite can make the lower jaw and chin look unpronounced, and underbite can make the chin look overly pronounced.

The benefits of straight teeth and jaw alignment are truly important to your overall well-being. If you are interested in straightening your teeth or have any questions about options, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule an appointment. At Kelly Orthodontics, our team can develop a plan to help you get straight teeth and ensure a healthy bite is achieved.

 

Your First Orthodontic Visit

Kelly Orthodontics

At Kelly Orthodontics, we are proud to offer affordable orthodontic treatment options with exceptional results to patients of all ages.

Your initial consultation is one of the most important appointments you’ll have at our office. Your first visit to our office is a time for us to get to know you and determine your main concerns. We will ease your fears by giving you as much information as needed to help you feel comfortable. Each member of our team is friendly and accessible, and we encourage our patients and parents to ask questions. We believe that patients will feel more comfortable if they know what to expect and are well informed of a procedure before it occurs. 

When you arrive at our St. Charles office, you’ll be welcomed and introduced to our treatment coordinator.  After we give you a quick tour of the office, we’ll look at your medical and dental histories and take a few digital photographs of your teeth. These photographs are used to identify and discuss any orthodontic problems that are present.

After the photographs are taken, Dr. Kelly will perform a careful examination. He will evaluate many things relating to your face, your smile, and the fit of your teeth. This thorough exam helps Dr. Kelly determine what type of treatment would benefit you most. He will provide a complete clinical diagnosis, a written summary of the findings and a detailed plan that outlines your treatment, goals, and estimated fees.

Following your exam, Dr. Kelly may recommend treatment. If treatment is needed, it could start right away, or Dr. Kelly may suggest that you return to our office for periodic checkups. The timing of orthodontic treatment will depend on the developmental stage of the teeth and jaws along with the severity of the problem.

Whether you’ll be beginning treatment now or later, this first orthodontic visit is the best time to ask any questions you have about the orthodontic process. Our treatment coordinator will review the treatment options available and help you understand what to expect during the different stages of your orthodontic care.

You only get one smile! Trust it to a qualified orthodontic expert like Dr. Dan Kelly. If you haven’t already scheduled an initial consultation with Kelly Orthodontics, call our office today and take the first step towards the smile you’ve always wanted!

 

Acheive Whiter Teeth After Braces

Kelly Orthodontics

The feeling you have after getting your braces removed is the absolute best! It’s such a relief knowing that your orthodontic treatment is over, your teeth have moved into their proper alignment, and you finally have the smile you’ve always wanted.

Unfortunately, some people who get their braces off are disappointed by the color of their teeth. It’s very common for patients to want a whiter smile after the completion of their orthodontic treatment. From toothpaste to whitening trays…there are many options that can give you the bright and beautiful smile you’ve always wanted to show off.

Whitening Toothpaste – Regular toothpaste is designed to help remove some surface stains as they clean teeth and improve the health of your mouth. Whitening toothpaste takes it a step further by adding more abrasive ingredients to scrub the surface of the teeth and help remove even more surface stains. Whitening toothpastes are the least expensive and most easily accessible option for brightening your smile. However, it can take several weeks to begin to see results. Using a whitening toothpaste can help with minor stains, but because they don’t change the actual color of your teeth, any results can be undone by continuing habits that contribute to stains on your teeth.

At-Home Whitening Kits – At-home whitening kits, like Crest Whitestrips, are relatively effective and can help whiten your teeth after braces. At-home whitening kits are able remove stains from under the tooth surface with whitening gels, or bleaching agents, that contain an oxidizing agent in the form of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. The whitening gel reacts with the internal aspect of your tooth, mixing with the discolored areas and breaking them apart, giving your teeth a noticeably whiter appearance.

Professional Teeth Whitening – If you have serious stains or white spots on your teeth after your braces have been removed, a professional whitening treatment from your general dentist is the best choice. With professional whitening, you’ll be able to quickly reverse years of staining in a single appointment.

If you or a member of your family has just completed orthodontic treatment and are looking for teeth whitening options in St. Charles or the surrounding areas, the team at Kelly Orthodontics can help answer any questions you have about achieving a brighter, whiter smile after braces. Give our office a calltoday! 

  

The Perfect Age For Braces

Kelly Orthodontics

When we think of braces, most of us think of teenagers. But nowadays, people of all ages are getting braces. So…what is the perfect age to start braces treatment?

Dr. Kelly can successfully correct most orthodontic problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that doesn’t mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact, the starting age may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Traditionally, orthodontic treatment begins when a child has lost most of his or her baby teeth, and a majority of the permanent teeth have grown in. That said, it is a good idea to get an orthodontic evaluation by the time a child is 7 years old. You may think that 7 years old is too early to put your child in braces, however, this interceptive approach can help Dr. Kelly spot potential orthodontic problems related to jaw growth and eruption of adult teeth before they get out of hand.

Most orthodontic problems are ideally treated during a child’s teenage years. Usually, all or most permanent teeth are present and patients are at one of their most active phases of growth. This is a great time to correct most problems, as the jaws are actively growing and their growth can be most easily modified during this time.

Although childhood is a good time to make changes to the mouth and jaw, more and more adults are seeking orthodontic treatment for missing or crooked teeth, TMJ, and more. As an adult, you might think that your options for having your teeth fixed are limited, but today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs.

There really is no perfect age at which you should first visit the orthodontist. The best choice for you will largely depend on the severity of your orthodontic problem. A visit to Kelly Orthodontics should happen when you feel it is needed. Often, your family dentist will be the one to recommend the visit.

If you are considering braces for yourself or your child, give Kelly Orthodontics a call and schedule your initial consultation. Our friendly and knowledgeable team will take the time to address your concerns, answer your questions, and guide you through the treatment process.

Is Invisalign Right For You?

Kelly Orthodontics

When you think of orthodontics, you probably think of traditional metal braces. But metal braces are only one of the options when it comes to correcting your smile.

The Invisalign System is virtually undetectable and straightens your teeth without wires and brackets. Invisalign takes a modern approach to straightening teeth, using custom-made aligners created for you and only you. These aligners are smooth, comfortable, and virtually invisible. Not only are the aligners invisible, but they are also removable, so you can eat and drink what you want while in treatment.

Invisalign aligners gradually and gently shift your teeth into place, based on the exact movements Dr. Kelly plans out for you. With the Invisalign System, you will achieve a great smile with little disruption in your daily life. You will wear each set of aligners for about 2 weeks. As you replace each aligner with the next in the series, your teeth will move little by little. You will visit Dr. Kelly about once every 6 weeks to ensure that your treatment is progressing as planned. Total treatment time averages 9-15 months and the average number of aligners worn during treatment is between 18 and 30.

Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign aligners can be removed instantly and easily. Invisalign makes it easy to eat whatever you want, whenever you want, and you never need to worry about your meals interfering with your orthodontic treatment.

If you want straighter teeth but don’t want the look of traditional metal braces, Invisalign may be the perfect option for you. Contact Kelly Orthodontics in St. Charles, IL to talk to us about Invisalign!

Did you know…

Only an orthodontist, like Dr. Kelly, who has been trained and certified by Align Technology can diagnose and treat using Invisalign. Invisalign is designed to correct a variety of orthodontic problems in children, teens, and adults. However, Invisalign is not appropriate for everyone. After an initial examination, Dr. Kelly will determine if the Invisalign System is an effective treatment option for you.

 

Digital Orthodontic Impressions with iTero

Kelly Orthodontics

At Kelly Orthodontics we have made treatment even easier with the use of our latest iTero Digital Impression Scanner. This state-of-the-art technology allows our well-trained team members to take accurate 3D digital images of your mouth. By taking these scans we eliminate the need for traditional putty impressions as well as speed up the start of your orthodontic treatment.

The iTero scanner is all about patient comfort. It delivers digital impressions that are much more accurate than traditional dental impression. The iTero scanner is completely safe and does not expose our patients to any sort of radiation. The best part is…the iTero scanner is fast and accurate.

During the impression process, you can breathe or swallow as you normally would. You can even pause during the process if you need to sneeze or just want to ask a question. Your mouth is scanned with a radiation-free laser, and in as little as two to three minutes, the laser renders a digitally perfect, 3D impression of your teeth and soft tissue structures. This 3D model of your mouth that can be used for all your orthodontic treatment needs.

Why Our Patients Love Our iTero Digital Impression Scanner

Traditional dental impressions can be unpleasant because the patient needs to wait for several minutes, with their teeth held in place while the alginate material sets. Patients with a strong gag reflex may struggle with this traditional procedure. The putty material is not strongly flavored, but it may prove to be too much for some patients, which can cause gagging or throwing up while the goopy putty sets.

Digital impressions eliminate the goopy impression material and allow for a better fitted final smile restoration. With our iTero Digital Impression Scanner, we can capture images of the patient’s teeth and soft tissue structures as digital photographs. These digital impressions greatly increase productivity, efficiency, and accuracy and Dr. Kelly can send the impressions over to the laboratory almost immediately, rather than needing to mail off the impression that has been made using the traditional goopy alginate.

iTero Digital Impression Benefits

• Improved quality impressions ensure better fitted orthodontic appliances 
• No goopy and gaggy putty alginate 
• Whole mouth scans can be completed in under 10 minutes 
• An eco-friendly solution that eliminates the need for plastic trays and the materials used for the impressions 
• Less time in the chair for the patient

Improving the patient experience is one of the priorities we focus on at Kelly Orthodontics and the iTero Digital Scanner helps us create the best possible orthodontic care for our patients.