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It may be hard to believe, but where earlier generations of young people wanted to make the braces on their teeth as inconspicuous as possible, today millions around the globe have embraced wearing “fashion braces” for the fun of it. For some, wearing fashion braces on their teeth is a way of expressing their individuality, while in countries where dental treatment is too expensive for many, fashion braces are seen as a sign of wealth and importance.

What, Exactly, Are Fashion Braces?

Fashion braces, also known as cosmetic braces or decorative braces, are fake orthodontic appliances designed to be more aesthetically pleasing or stylish than traditional metal braces. They may feature different colors, patterns, or designs on the brackets and/or rubber bands, allowing wearers to express their personality or style preferences. While they may look like real braces, they have no functional value in the alignment of your teeth and jaws.

DIY kits for fashion braces are readily available on the internet, or you can often have them applied by unlicensed individuals having no dental training operating out of their homes or storefronts.

The Real Dangers of Fake Braces for Teeth

If you want to have the metal-filled smile that previous generations tried to avoid, fashion braces can be a much more affordable alternative compared to traditional braces. However, wearing these fake orthodontic appliances comes with substantial dangers, and you need to be aware of these risks.

Uncontrolled Tooth Movements

As the American Association of Orthodontists points out, fashion braces are not designed to be functional orthodontic appliances. However, they are glued to your teeth, and the applied pressure can lead to misalignment of your teeth or tooth damage. If that happens, you will need to see a trained orthodontist who can correct the damage with genuine braces or aligners.

Safety Concerns, Including Poisoning

Because fashion braces are not made, sold, or applied by medical professionals, it can be difficult to truly know their ingredients, meaning fake brackets and wires may contain harmful and potentially poisonous chemicals like cadmium or lead.

As an example, Thailand banned fake braces in 2018 after the deaths of two adolescents. Thai authorities determined the two died from infections that occurred when heavy metals from the fake appliances seeped into their oral tissues.

Long-term Dental Problems

In addition to the inferior quality of many of these fake appliances, the intricate designs or decorations on the brackets can make cleaning the teeth and braces more difficult. That, in turn, can increase the risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

Cuts and Choking

Having fake orthodontic appliances applied by someone with no dental training comes with the risk of damage to teeth and gums. The glue used with these appliances is usually not a medical-grade adhesive. That increases the risk of wires and brackets coming loose and possibly cutting your gums and jaws. They can even become a choking hazard if they completely fall off, possibly leading to a trip to the nearest emergency room.

Compassionate Care and Paul DiFranco Orthodontics

In sum, while fashion dental braces for teeth may give you a bit of glitz and glamour, they come with several genuine health risks and should be avoided.

Instead, if you’re dreaming of having a beautiful smile, we want you to know that at Paul DiFranco Orthodontics, we’re dedicated to providing genuine orthodontic treatment tailored to your unique needs. Say goodbye to fake orthodontic appliances and trust our expert team to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

Call us today at 708-930-5941 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward genuine orthodontic excellence!

A beautiful, confident smile can make a world of difference in our lives. Unfortunately, misaligned teeth can often stand in the way of having that smile, and one major concern that prevents some from seeking orthodontic treatment is the cost. In this blog, we will explore the various treatment options and explain the factors that influence the cost of braces on teeth.

Common Types of Orthodontic Treatment

1. Traditional Metal Braces: Traditional metal braces are the most common type of orthodontic treatment. They consist of metal brackets and wires that are adjusted regularly to straighten your teeth. Metal braces are highly effective and usually the most affordable option, with costs sometimes beginning as low as $1,700.
2. Ceramic Braces: Ceramic braces work similarly to metal braces, but the brackets are made from a clear or tooth-colored ceramic material. They are less noticeable than metal braces, making them a popular choice for teens and adults who want a more discreet option. However, they can be a bit more expensive than traditional metal braces, starting at about $3,000.
3. Invisalign Aligners: Invisalign aligners are clear, removable trays that gradually move your teeth into place. The aligners are nearly invisible, making them an attractive option for those who prefer a more aesthetic approach. Invisalign is typically more expensive than both metal and ceramic braces, but the aligner trays offer the benefit of being removable and more comfortable, but they should be worn at least 22 hours per day. Treatment costs begin at around $3,500.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment

No two patients are exactly alike, and several factors can influence the cost of your orthodontic treatment:

1. Type of Braces: As mentioned, traditional metal braces tend to be the cheapest option, followed by ceramic braces, with the cost of Invisalign being the most expensive. That said, their near invisibility makes them attractive to adults and teens hesitant to wear traditional metal braces.
2. Severity of Alignment Issues: More complex alignment issues may require longer treatment times and more frequent adjustments, which can increase the cost.
3. Treatment Duration: The length of time you need to wear braces can affect the overall cost. Longer treatments generally cost more.
4. Location: The cost of orthodontic treatment can vary based on where you live. Treatment in urban areas may be more expensive than in rural areas.
5. Insurance Coverage: Dental insurance can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Check with your provider to see what portion of the treatment they cover.

Affordable Options at Paul DiFranco Orthodontics

At Paul DiFranco Orthodontics, we never want financial considerations to prevent you from getting the orthodontic treatment you desire. We accept payment from many dental insurance plans, and we also accept payment by most major credit cards, except American Express.

To learn more about the treatment option that would be best for you, we urge you to schedule an initial free consultation and comprehensive oral examination with Dr. DiFranco. During this visit, we will discuss our treatment options that will give you the glowing smile you’ve always wanted.

Your journey to a beautiful, confident smile starts with understanding your options and the costs involved. We’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today at 708-930-5941 to schedule your initial complimentary consultation!

Always remember, at Paul DiFranco Orthodontics, your smile is our priority. Let us help you achieve the confidence-boosting smile and the oral health you deserve.

Your temporomandibular joint serves as a hinge that connects your jaw to your skull’s temporal bones (located just in front of your ears). This joint allows you to move your jaw up and down and from side to side, motions that are necessary when you talk, chew and or even yawn. Problems with this joint can lead to a condition known as TMJ disorder that is characterized by an array of troubling symptoms, including:

•           Tenderness in the jaw area or near the ears

•           Discomfort in the neck or shoulders

•           Difficulty opening your mouth wide

•           Clicking or popping sounds when you open and close your mouth

•           Facial tiredness or fatigue

•           Trouble chewing or an uncomfortable bite

•           Facial swelling

If you have experienced any of these symptoms, contact our office to schedule an evaluation. If TMJ is the culprit, your treatment options will vary, but many patients may find relief after embarking on an orthodontic treatment plan. Depending on the root cause of your TMJ, our office may suggest several options to address your symptoms, including the use of a night guard, the placement of a TMJ appliance, or teeth straightening using some type of braces or aligners.

A night guard is exactly what it sounds like: a mouthpiece that is worn while you sleep to guard against sleep-induced teeth grinding and jaw clenching. The night guard works to alleviate TMJ symptoms by easing the pressure exerted on the temporomandibular joint. Night guards are custom molded for you by our orthodontic team so they can realign your jaw and relieve your discomfort.

Unlike a night guard, a TMJ appliance, also known as an orthodontic splint, is worn 24 hours a day. Fashioned from acrylic resin, a splint is designed to fit on top of the upper or lower teeth and helps to stabilize the teeth and/or jaws to alleviate discomfort.

If your TMJ is caused by tooth misalignment or bite problems, braces may be the most effective method to shift your teeth into the proper position. Correctly positioned teeth will ultimately help realign the temporomandibular joint, reducing or even eliminating TMJ symptoms. 

If you have been experiencing jaw pain, teeth grinding, jaw clenching, or any other symptoms associated with TMJ, a consultation with our team may be the best first step in identifying a solution. Our orthodontic office has extensive knowledge regarding how tooth alignment impacts your face and jaw muscles, and is uniquely qualified to make treatment recommendations that will keep TMJ symptoms at bay. Call our orthodontic office and schedule a consultation to learn more today.

60465 Orthodontist

We all know the importance of making a great first impression. Whether you’re going into a job interview or about to go on your first date with someone new, you want to have the confidence that comes with a great smile. After years of wear and tear however, a lot of people end up with teeth that they’re not completely proud to show off. If you feel unhappy with the way your smile looks, don’t worry; there are plenty of options that can help.

Figuring out the best ways to improve your smile can be a daunting task, but our dental team is here to help, offering a range of services dedicated to helping you look and feel your best.

8 Ways to Improve Your Smile

1.    Teeth Whitening

2.    Dental Crowns

3.    Veneers

4.    Tooth Bonding

5.    Braces or Invisalign®

6.    Dental Implants

7.    Brushing and Flossing

8.    Regular Dental Visits

There are a myriad of ways you can improve your smile. Whether you decide to pursue a more in-depth treatment at our clinic or simply want advice on how to improve your oral health routine at home, our dentists are happy to help. Our highly trained team offers all the state of the art services necessary to help keep your mouth healthy and your smile shining bright.

It’s clear that there are a lot of treatments available for anyone looking to improve their smile. With options for any budget, there’s no reason to wait to begin your journey towards a better smile. To schedule a professional cleaning or to speak with someone about a personalized treatment plan, contact our office today!

10059 S. ROBERTS RD. SUITE 2A,PALOS HILLS, IL 60465

REFERENCES:

http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ways-to-improve-smile

https://findadentist.ada.org/

60465 Orthodontist

It has long been known that dairy products contain high amounts of calcium, which is important for developing and maintaining strong teeth and bones. However, not all dairy works in the same ways. Did you know that a recent study has found that cheese can actually help protect teeth against cavities?

How does cheese prevent cavities?

Eating cheese helps stimulate the production of saliva in your child’s mouth, which washes away sugars, acids, and bacteria on their teeth. Additionally, cheese is a great source of both calcium and phosphorous, which can help strengthen tooth enamel. What’s more, the scientists who performed the study found that some of the other compounds found in cheese seem to adhere to tooth enamel, further protecting the teeth from acids in the mouth.

Are all cheeses the same?

No, some cheeses are healthier for your family than others. To get the greatest benefit from your child’s cheese intake, stick with real cheese varieties, rather than processed cheeses. American cheese, cheese dips, and pre-packaged cheese products, such as those found in jars or spray cans, have added sugars to enhance their flavor. These sugars can be harmful to teeth, rather than protecting them. In addition, these types of cheese products contain a significantly reduced amount of actual cheese content. These processed cheeses can even wear down tooth enamel, increasing risk of decay.

What kinds of cheese should I give my child?

There are hundreds of types of real cheese available, which are packed with calcium and great for tooth protection. If your child enjoys aged cheeses, Cheddar, Swiss, Monterey jack are all tasty options. If he or she prefers softer cheeses, Mozzarella, Brie, or Camembert may be a great way to make your child smile. Gorgonzola, Roquefort, and other similar cheeses have much to offer for a child with a more expansive palate.

What if we’re on a low-fat diet?

Good news! The fat content of your cheese choices do not affect its ability to protect your child’s teeth. The low-fat or non-fat versions of your child’s favorite varieties of cheese contain just as much calcium, phosphorous, and other tooth-protecting compounds as the full-fat varieties.

With so many great options to choose from, consider offering your child cheese instead of sugary or starchy options for a snack or end of meal treat. Cheese tastes great and is healthy for your child and their teeth. For more ideas for healthy snacking, contact our pediatric dental office.

Resource: https://www.sciencedaily.com

10059 S. ROBERTS RD. SUITE 2A, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465

Thank you for trusting me with your dental health care. You are a valuable part of my work and my life. I want you to know that my team and I appreciate your time, your trust, and your teamwork in your oral health care.

A smile is contagious. I love coming into work everyday and helping our fellow community members achieve the smile of their dreams because it means that they’ll share that smile with those around them. I believe that all of this smiling makes our community a better, happier place.

Serving the community we share gives me purpose. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you. Thank you for sharing your smile with our staff and your fellow community members. Thank you for being a patient that brightens our team’s day. Thank you for being a big part of why I smile.

If we’ve made you smile, please tell your friends and family about us. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment.

Thank you so much.