Our Office Blog

Choosing between braces and aligners is a significant decision when embarking on your orthodontic journey. This blog reviews factors to consider when deciding between the two.

In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into orthodontic expanders, why they are used, and how they relate to the broader concept of airway orthodontics.

In this blog post, we'll dive deeper into orthodontic expanders, why they are used, and how they relate to the broader concept of airway orthodontics.

When you're looking for the best Chicago-area orthodontist serving the North Shore, Rosen Orthodontics is your go-to source. Call us today at 847-215-9971.

When you're looking for the best Chicago-area orthodontist serving the North Shore, Rosen Orthodontics is your go-to source. Call us today at 847-215-9971.

Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Now that you have a beautiful new smile, it's important to take steps to keep it that way. Retainers are an essential part of your orthodontic treatment and help maintain the alignment of your teeth. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben want to make sure that you know how to properly care for your removable Essix retainer and lingual bonded (permanent) retainer. Caring for Your Removable Essix Retainer Essix retainers are custom-made clear plastic aligners that fit over your teeth and help maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They're easy to wear and clean, but it's important to follow these tips to keep them in good condition: Wear your retainer as directed. Your orthodontist will instruct you on how often you need to wear your retainer. Be sure to follow their instructions carefully. Clean your retainer daily. Brush your retainer gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Rinse it thoroughly with cool water before and after each use. Store your retainer properly. When you're not wearing your retainer, keep it in its protective case to prevent it from getting lost or damaged. Avoid exposing your retainer to high temperatures or direct sunlight. Avoid eating with your retainer in. Remove your retainer before eating to prevent damage or staining. Replace your retainer when necessary. Over time, your retainer may become worn or damaged. If this happens, contact your orthodontist to have it replaced.  Caring for Your Lingual Bonded (Permanent) Retainer Lingual bonded retainers are a thin wire that's bonded to the back of your teeth, providing continuous support to keep your teeth in their corrected position. Here are some tips to keep your lingual bonded retainer in good condition: Brush and floss your teeth carefully. Brush and floss your teeth daily, paying extra attention to the area around the retainer. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Use interdental brushes. An interdental brush can help you clean around the wire of your lingual bonded retainer more easily. Avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods. Hard, sticky, or chewy foods can damage your retainer. Cut up hard foods like apples before eating them. Wear a mouthguard during sports. If you play sports or engage in other physical activities, wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and your retainer. Visit your orthodontist regularly. Your orthodontist will monitor the condition of your lingual bonded retainer during your routine checkups. In conclusion, maintaining your retainer is an essential part of keeping your newly aligned smile. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben want to make sure that you know how to properly care for your removable Essix retainer and lingual bonded (permanent) retainer. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you maintain your beautiful new smile for years to come.

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your dental health and well-being. While some general dentists offer orthodontic treatment, it's essential to understand the value of seeing an orthodontist for your orthodontic needs. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben believe that seeing an orthodontist provides significant benefits to patients seeking orthodontic treatment. Expertise and Specialized Training Orthodontists are specialists who receive advanced education and training beyond dental school to become experts in orthodontic treatment. They complete an additional three years of post-graduate education focused solely on orthodontics. This specialized training allows orthodontists to diagnose and treat complex orthodontic problems that general dentists may not be trained to address. Customized Treatment Plans Orthodontic treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Every patient's orthodontic needs are different, and an orthodontist can provide a customized treatment plan tailored to each patient's specific needs. They take into account factors such as age, facial structure, and the severity of orthodontic issues to develop a plan that will be effective and efficient. Access to Advanced Technology Orthodontists have access to the latest technology and advancements in orthodontic treatment. They use digital imaging and advanced treatment planning software to create precise treatment plans and ensure the best possible outcome for their patients. They also use state-of-the-art equipment to provide the most comfortable and efficient treatment possible. Ongoing Care and Support Orthodontic treatment is a process that requires ongoing care and support. Orthodontists provide continued care to ensure that their patients' teeth stay in their new positions, and any issues that arise are addressed promptly. They also provide education and support to help their patients maintain good oral hygiene during and after treatment. In conclusion, seeing an orthodontist for your orthodontic needs provides numerous benefits, including specialized training and expertise, customized treatment plans, access to advanced technology, and ongoing care and support. At Rosen Orthodontics, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben are committed to providing the highest quality orthodontic treatment to their patients in Highland Park, IL, Buffalo Grove, IL, and the surrounding North Shore suburbs. If you have any questions or concerns about orthodontic treatment, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.

If you're considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, you may be wondering whether you should see a pediatric orthodontist or an orthodontist who specializes in adult treatment. Look no further! At our offices in Highland Park, IL and Buffalo Grove, IL, we offer both types of orthodontic care, and we understand that each patient has unique needs and goals. Pediatric Orthodontics: Pediatric orthodontics is the branch of orthodontics that focuses on diagnosing and correcting orthodontic problems in children. Pediatric orthodontics, also known as children's orthodontics, is focused on the dental and skeletal development of children. Children are typically screened by age 7, and, if necessary, may start orthodontic treatment between the ages of 7 and 10, when their permanent teeth begin to come in. By addressing orthodontic issues early, we can often prevent more serious problems from developing later on.  At our Highland Park and Buffalo Grove offices, our orthodontists, Dr. Kristina and Dr. Ben, have the expertise and experience to provide the best possible care for your child. They will work closely with you and your child to develop a treatment plan that is customized to your child's individual needs and goals. Adult Orthodontics: Adult orthodontics is the branch of orthodontics that focuses on diagnosing and correcting orthodontic problems in adults. Adult orthodontics is focused on correcting dental and jaw problems that occur in patients who have completed their growth and development. This type of treatment can be done at any age, as long as the teeth and gums are healthy. Many adults choose to undergo orthodontic treatment to correct crooked teeth, overcrowding, or bite problems that were not addressed during childhood.However, some adults are seeking a "tune-up" after a relapse in their alignment from treatment they had when they were younger. Just as is the case for pediatric orthodontics, Dr. Ben and Dr. Kristina have the expertise and experience to provide the best possible care for adults. They understand that adults have unique orthodontic needs and concerns, such as the desire for more discrete treatment options like Invisalign or lingual braces. They also understand that many adults are concerned about the cost of orthodontic treatment, which is why flexible payment plans are available at our office to make treatment more affordable. Conclusion: Whether you have a child needing pediatric orthodontics or are a parent seeking adult orthodontics for yourself, our offices in Highland Park and Buffalo Grove, IL can provide the care you need. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Kristina or Dr. Ben and take the first step towards a healthier, more beautiful smile!

Orthodontic treatment is an investment in your oral health and overall well-being. It can provide a lifetime of benefits, including a beautiful, healthy smile and improved oral function. However, we understand that the cost of orthodontic treatment can be a concern for many families. Here's what you need to know about the cost of orthodontic treatment and how to make it work for your budget. Factors That Affect the Cost of Orthodontic Treatment The cost of orthodontic treatment can vary depending on several factors, including the type of treatment, the length of treatment, and the complexity of your case. Traditional metal braces may be less expensive than clear aligners like Invisalign, but the length of treatment and frequency of appointments can also affect the cost. More complex cases may require additional appliances or longer treatment times, which can also increase the cost. Insurance and Financing Options Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of the cost of orthodontic treatment, but coverage can vary widely. Our team at Rosen Orthodontics can help you understand your insurance benefits and provide a breakdown of the cost of treatment, so you can make an informed decision about your orthodontic care. We also offer flexible financing options and payment plans to help make treatment more affordable for our patients. The Value of Orthodontic Treatment While the cost of orthodontic treatment can be a concern, it's important to consider the value of treatment. Orthodontic treatment can provide a lifetime of benefits, including improved oral health, better jaw alignment, and a beautiful smile. Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Proper jaw alignment can also improve speech and chewing function. A beautiful smile can boost your self-confidence and improve your quality of life. Investing in Your Smile At Rosen Orthodontics, we believe that every patient deserves a healthy, beautiful smile. That's why we work with our patients to develop personalized treatment plans that fit their unique needs and budget. We offer a range of treatment options, including traditional braces, clear aligners, and lingual braces, and our team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and service to our patients. If you're considering orthodontic treatment but have concerns about the cost, don't hesitate to contact us. Our doctors will provide a comprehensive consultation and help you understand your options for financing and insurance coverage. Investing in your smile is an investment in your health and well-being, and we're here to help make it possible for you, so contact us today to set up your complimentary consultation in our Highland Park office or our Buffalo Grove office.