Dental Professionals

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Lincoln Park

Dr. Michael M. Bukumira – Est. 1987

Orthodontic Treatments in Lincoln Park, Lakeview, & Chicago

As unfair as it may be, first impressions are often based on physical attributes. When it comes to social and professional opportunities, a charming smile and firm handshake can make all the difference. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with naturally straight or perfectly aligned teeth. Nevertheless, the confidence that comes with a beautiful smile is within everyone’s reach.

Orthodontic treatment is an effective tool that harnesses the body’s ability to remodel its own tissue. By applying consistent, gentle pressure, orthodontic apparatuses gently reshape bone and move teeth into their proper position. The original smile makeover tool, orthodontic treatment has evolved into a practical solution for teenagers and adults, as well as children.

Although traditional metal braces are still an option, clear and tooth-colored braces as well as clear aligners have eliminated the stigma long associated with orthodontic correction devices.

More Than an Aesthetic Improvement

Although the primary reason most adults opt for orthodontic correction is to improve their smile and boost their confidence, proper alignment is important for other reasons as well. When your teeth are positioned correctly, you bite, chew, and speak more effectively. Straight, evenly spaced, teeth are also easier to keep clean, reducing cavities and gum disease.

Bite problems often become evident around age seven, and should be evaluated promptly. These issues include crossbite, underbite, and excessive overbite, where the upper and lower teeth do not close in the proper position. Orthodontic correction is also recommended for open bite, where a space remains between the top and the bottom teeth when the jaw is closed, overcrowding, and excessive spacing between teeth.

Orthodontics for Children, Teens, and Adults

Bite problems are corrected by moving teeth. This sounds difficult, but is actually quite simple when you understand how teeth are supported. They are not locked rigidly into the jawbone, but rather held by a hammock-like structure called the periodontal ligament.  This ligament is extremely responsive to any force exerted on your teeth, allowing the constant, gentle pressure utilized by orthodontic appliances to work effectively.

It is ideal to receive orthodontic treatment during childhood, taking advantage of the natural growth processes to help move the teeth into their proper position. The entire body is undergoing rapid change during this time, including the jaw and teeth. Certain appliances, for example the palatal expander which can be used to create more room in a crowded mouth, are very effective during this time of development. Childhood orthodontic treatment can reduce total treatment time and effect superior results.

Although there are distinct advantages to orthodontics for children, healthy teeth can be realigned at any age. Technological advances—including clear aligners, tooth-colored ceramic braces, and invisible lingual braces—have made corrective devices less evident, allowing for adults and older teens to feel more comfortable utilizing them. In fact, one in five orthodontic patients today is an adult. Prior to treatment, adults must be carefully examined for any signs of periodontal (gum) disease and receive treatment if necessary.

Types of Orthodontic Appliances

All orthodontic treatment works by carefully applying constant, gentle pressure to slowly move teeth into correct alignment. When you think of orthodontics, you probably picture small metal brackets and tin wires running between them. These traditional braces are still very popular, but are no longer the only option.

Clear braces, that utilize plastic or ceramic brackets, have only a slim archwire that remains visible. Lingual braces are traditional metal braces bonded and wired to the back of your teeth (tongue side), keeping them completely out of sight.

The most recent additions to the orthodontics arsenal are removable, clear aligners. Treatment consist of a series of clear plastic “trays” that progressively move your teeth a bit at a time, until you are ready for the next in the series. These are a popular alternative to fixed orthodontic appliances.

Each appliance, fixed or removable, has its own advantages and disadvantages. When you book a consultation with Dental Professionals of Lincoln Park, we will perform a complete examination and recommend the best treatment options for your situation.

Retainers and Post-Treatment Care

It is vital to wear your retainer as directed once your orthodontic treatment is complete. Teeth have a natural tendency to gradually shift back to their original position, and proper use of a retainer will prevent this from occurring. You have put a lot of time and effort into that beautiful smile, and wearing your retainer will give your bone and ligaments a chance to adapt and re-form correctly—keeping your smile looking gorgeous for a lifetime!

Location

our address

Dental Professionals
of Lincoln Park

2314 N Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60614

Call or write phone & email

(773) 327-4442

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Office Hours

meet our team
Mon 04:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Staff Available at Noon
Tue 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
and 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Wed 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
and 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Every Other Week
Thu 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Fri 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Every Other Week
Sat - Sun Closed