At Innovative Orthodontic Centers, we invest in the latest materials and technology to ensure our patients receive the fastest, most comfortable braces treatments. We have options including metal and clear self-ligating braces and SureSmile® to meet your straightening needs at any age.
The Braces Basics
Dental braces are fixed orthodontic appliances that apply gentle, continuous force to gradually shift your teeth and bite into alignment for a healthy, gorgeous smile. While all braces rely on a system of brackets and archwires to guide tooth movement, not all braces are created equal.
A Better Way to Straighten Your Teeth
At Innovative Orthodontic Centers, we take a high-tech approach and use precise digital treatment planning, advanced self-ligating brackets and robotically customized SureSmile® wires for all of our braces. This provides:
- Enhanced Comfort – Elastics-free self-ligating brackets reduce friction and irritation, while shape-memory wires apply less pressure.
- Better Results – State-of-the-art software and prescription wires allow for custom smile design and precise control over tooth movements.
- Faster Treatment – Our proactive approach helps teeth take a more direct path to their final positions without frequent adjustments, so you’ll see your new smile sooner and with fewer office visits.
Learn More: Our SureSmile Difference: What Accelerated Orthodontic Treatment Really Means
How Do Braces Work?
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), “successful treatment with braces requires pressure, time, and cooperation.” The braces put pressure on your teeth, helping to move them into their ideal positions over time. However, cooperation (i.e., avoiding foods that can break brackets, wearing elastics as prescribed, keeping teeth clean, etc.) is necessary to make treatment as efficient and effective as possible.
The Braces Procedure
It all begins with a complimentary consultation with one of our American board-certified orthodontists, Dr. Manal Ibrahim or Dr. Christine Gin. If you decide to move forward with braces, you can start treatment on the same day as your consultation! Here’s what to expect when getting braces at our practice:
Consultation
At your free braces consultation, a team member will snap some photos of your face and teeth and take complimentary, low-dose, digital x-rays. We’ll also use our iTero scanner to take digital impressions (no gross molds!) so you can see your predicted outcome before you even start your treatment. Dr. Ibrahim or Dr. Gin will examine your mouth, develop a diagnosis and talk with you about your goals and options.
We’ll answer all of your questions and go over the details, such as cost and how long you’ll wear braces. For your convenience, we’re able to kick off your treatment on the same day as the consultation to save you from making an extra trip to our office.
We Put Your Braces On
We know the idea of getting braces can seem a little intimidating but it doesn’t hurt a bit – there are no needles involved and it takes less than an hour. Based on digital impressions of your mouth and computerized 3D imaging, our orthodontists will completely customize your treatment plan. They’ll use a special glue to bond your brackets to your teeth and then place your archwires, which are bent using robotic technology for a perfect fit. When we’re finished, you’ll get all of the information you need to take care of your new braces.
Checkups
With self-ligating braces and the SureSmile® system, you’ll need fewer adjustments throughout your treatment. However, you’ll still come in about every eight weeks, depending on your needs, so we can make minor tweaks and monitor your progress. If you have questions, ask away. We’ll always keep you in the loop about how treatment is going and for kids and teens, we chat with parents to make sure they feel informed and confident in their child’s care.
The Braces Come Off!
This is a big day and after you get a congratulatory high-five, Dr. Ibrahim or Dr. Gin will remove your wires and take off your brackets (a process that’s equally as painless as getting your braces put on). We’ll then polish your teeth and you’ll be able to check out your gorgeous grin in the mirror.
Retention
While your teeth get used to their new positions, they have a natural tendency to shift back to where they used to be prior to treatment. Wearing a retainer is the only way to prevent this and maintain your braces results for life. We offer clear Vivera® retainers, which are custom-made to your mouth and barely noticeable. We’ll give you instructions for wearing them, so you can protect your healthy, straight smile.
Ready to get started?
Parts of Braces
ARCHWIRE
This is the main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth into place. Orthodontists can manually bend the wires, which means frequent wire changes and limitations in wire materials. Thankfully, at our practice, we use SureSmile®. With this system, the archwires are bent using robotic technology for exceptional precision, fewer adjustments, and enhanced comfort.
BRACKET
These small metal or ceramic attachments hold the archwire in place. Usually, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth’s surface, eliminating the need for a band.
LIGATURE
A ligature is a thin wire, steel tie or tiny elastic that holds your archwire in your bracket. Ligatures aren’t required with our self-ligating braces. However, patients can customize their braces with colors if they’d like.
COIL SPRING
Coil springs fit between brackets and over the archwire to open or close space between your teeth.
WIRE TIE
This fine wire is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place. With self-ligating brackets, you don’t need steel ties with your braces.
BAND
A thin ring of metal, known as a band, can be fitted completely around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the teeth.
BUTTON
These small, circular pieces are bonded to your teeth and help with tooth movement. We use both clear ceramic and metal buttons.
ELASTIC (RUBBER BAND)
Small rubber bands are hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.
BITE RAMP
These little plastic blocks are bonded to the back of your teeth – usually the upper front teeth – to open a deep bite. They prevent you from biting down on your bottom braces and accidentally causing damage. As soon as your bite has changed enough, we remove them.
Types of Braces
There are many different types of braces, ranging from traditional metal braces to lingual braces, but at Innovative Orthodontic Centers, we forgo these conventional options in favor of cutting-edge solutions that allow for maximum precision, control and speed without cutting corners.
Self-Ligating Metal Braces
It wasn’t too long ago that having metal braces meant sporting gleaming, bulky hardware. Aside from the aesthetic concerns, the treatment also relied on elastic bands or metal ties to apply pressure to the teeth. The friction wasn’t exactly comfortable.
Well, those days are gone. We use In-Ovation® R metal braces, which are smaller, more attractive, self-ligating brackets. Instead of ties or elastics, the system utilizes free-sliding technology to guide teeth gently into place with little to no pressure. In-Ovation® self-ligating metal braces work more quickly than standard braces and without the associated discomfort.
Self-Ligating Clear Braces
We also offer state-of-the-art In-Ovation® C ceramic braces in Naperville and Shorewood. The brackets are crafted from a translucent material that blends in with your smile, making them much less noticeable.
Unlike older versions, these clear braces won’t stain! They work in the same way as their metal counterparts by utilizing free-sliding technology to shift teeth gently into place without elastics or metal ties. There’s little to no pressure on your teeth and you can achieve your new smile in less time than you would with traditional braces. Patients often choose clear braces when they want an aesthetic option.
Learn more about the different types of braces.
SureSmile® Prescription Wire System
We combine our self-ligating braces with the SureSmile® prescription wire system. The wires are robotically bent according to Dr. Ibrahim or Dr. Gin’s custom treatment plan. By eliminating the inefficiencies of older technology, the system produces better results with fewer appointments – all while decreasing treatment time by an average of 29%.
Find out how SureSmile works.
Invisalign® (Clear Aligners)
Though some people refer to Invisalign as Invisalign braces or invisible braces, there’s no hardware involved in the treatment. The system of custom clear aligners is a convenient, discreet way to achieve your dream smile. And, as the #1 orthodontist Invisalign provider in the state of Illinois, everyone is a candidate for Invisalign at our practice!
Our Modern Braces Explained by Dr. Ibrahim
How to Tell if You Need Braces
Visiting an orthodontic specialist for a consultation is the only way to determine for certain if you need braces. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that kids have their first orthodontic evaluation by age 7. But, it’s never too late to seek care! You should schedule an appointment if you have any of the following issues:
- Crooked or crowded teeth
- Gaps between your teeth
- Protruding teeth
- Difficulty brushing and flossing effectively
- Frequent biting of the inside of your cheek or tongue while eating
- Jaw pain or headaches
- Early or late loss of baby teeth in childhood
- Late eruption of permanent teeth
- Difficulty biting and chewing food
- Missing or extra (supernumerary) teeth
- An underbite (bottom teeth and jaw are positioned in front of the top teeth and jaw), overbite (top teeth cover more than half of the bottom teeth when you bite down), crossbite (some bottom teeth sit in front of the top teeth when the jaws are closed) or open bite (the upper and lower teeth don’t meet)
- Feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your smile
Brushing and Flossing With Braces
When you’re wearing braces, oral hygiene is more important than ever because it’s easy for food and bacteria to get trapped between your brackets and wires. This, in turn, leads to plaque buildup and possibly gingivitis, cavities or white spots. Here’s how to care for your smile during treatment:
- We recommend using an electric toothbrush. Be sure to brush your teeth in the morning, before bed and after every meal or snack with non-whitening, fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss at least once a day using an orthodontic flosser or product like Super Floss.
- Introducing a proxy brush into your routine is a great idea, too, as it can get into the nooks and crannies and under your wires to more effectively keep your braces clean.
- While using a water flosser with braces doesn’t replace regular flossing, it’s a worthwhile extra step that will leave your mouth feeling super clean.
- Continue to visit your regular dentist for checkups and cleanings to make sure your teeth and gums are healthy.
Brushing Techniques with Braces
Brushing with Proxabrush
Flossing with superfloss
Eating With Braces
What to Eat With Braces
If your teeth feel a little tender when you first get your braces on, stick with soft foods and cold drinks until the sensitivity subsides. You’ll also want to make food as easy to eat as possible throughout your treatment by breaking or cutting it into bite-sized pieces and chewing with your back teeth. Some of the best soft foods for braces include:
- Mashed potatoes
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs
- Pancakes
- Pasta, noodles and mac and cheese
- Smoothies and protein shakes
- Tender meats
- Fish sticks
- Ripe bananas
- Steamed or roasted veggies
- Chicken, tuna and egg salad
Foods to Avoid With Braces
Unfortunately, some foods have the potential to damage or even break your braces. These problems can cause delays in treatment and prevent you from getting your braces off on time. You can still eat most of the things you love, but there are some exceptions, so remember to avoid these foods:
- Hard pizza crust
- Hard rolls, pretzels and bagels
- Ribs and other meat on the bone
- Doritos, hard tacos and most chips
- Popcorn
- Nuts
- Slim Jims
- Whole raw apples and raw carrots
- Caramel, sticky or gummy candy, ju-ju beans and gum
- Ice chips
How to Wear Elastics With Braces
Meet the Doctors
Dr. Manal Ibrahim
Board-Certified Orthodontist
Naperville orthodontist Dr. Manal Ibrahim has been providing her patients with outstanding, cutting-edge dental and orthodontic care for over 25 years. She’s a leader in advanced orthodontics and a renowned businesswoman who prides herself on her “secret formula” for helping patients achieve the results they want in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. She helps kids, teens and adults, including those with complex cases, transform their smiles more quickly and comfortably.
Dr. Christine Gin
Board-Certified Orthodontist
Dr. Christine Gin loves building relationships with patients and providing them with top-notch care. She earned her Certificate in Orthodontics and a master’s degree in dentistry before continuing her training for two more years to become certified in temporomandibular and orofacial pain. Dr. Gin is fluent in Mandarin, Fookien and Filipino.
Why Choose Innovative Orthodontics for Braces in Shorewood and Naperville?
Flexible Financing
In an effort to make braces affordable for our patients, we accept most insurance and offer flexible financing options, including interest-free, in-office payment plans and third-party financing.
Fun, Modern Office
Our office was designed to feel like your home away from home. Adults can relax in a spa-like environment while kids and teens can take advantage of our kidzFlix cinema or kidzCave arcade game room.
Expert Team
Our American board-certified orthodontists are supported by our friendly, knowledgeable team who keep up-to-date on the latest technology and treatment innovations.
High-Tech
From diagnostics to treatment planning, we harness the power of technology to achieve better outcomes while ensuring your braces treatment is comfortable, accurate and quick.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best age to visit an orthodontist for braces?
Any age is a great age to see an orthodontist if you want to enhance the look and feel of your smile. Orthodontic treatment isn’t just exclusive to kids and teens. In fact, more than one in four patients is over the age of 18.
However, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends children first visit an orthodontist by age 7. This allows us to keep an eye on their growth and development and let parents know when the time is right for them to start treatment. If we do notice any red flags, addressing them early can make the teeth-straightening process a lot less complicated.
How long does it take for braces to work?
Because we specialize in accelerated orthodontics and use the SureSmile® braces system, you may notice subtle changes in your smile within weeks. As for how long you will have to wear braces, every patient is unique and it depends on factors like the severity of your case.
While a touchup may take six months, most comprehensive treatments take 18 months on average. SureSmile has been shown to reduce treatment time by about 29%, so don’t worry about spending years and years in braces.
Do braces hurt?
No, and you should never feel true braces pain at any point during your treatment. However, you might have a small amount of discomfort for a couple of days as your teeth, gums, cheeks and mouth get used to your new hardware.
How much do braces cost?
We’ll go over the cost of braces at your consultation after we’ve had the chance to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan. We’re always upfront about the price and there are never any hidden fees or surprises. We’ll work with you to ensure treatment fits your budget. We’re a preferred provider with numerous insurance carriers and we will file with all PPO insurances. We offer in-office monthly payment plans and discounts for payment in full.
What are the best braces for adults?
Many of our adult patients prefer clear braces or Invisalign. But the choice is yours!
What are the best braces for teens?
Some teens like Invisalign Teen or ceramic braces because they’re less noticeable. However, metal braces have seen a surge in popularity among teenagers. For those who want to show off their personal style, we give our patients the option of customizing their braces with colorful elastics.
What are the best braces for kids?
When Phase 1 braces are needed to help guide jaw growth, many little ones like metal braces with colorful elastics. We’re also one of the few practices to offer Phase 1 Invisalign options. You’ll be able to choose the solution that will work best for your child.
How can I take care of my teeth if I’m wearing braces or a retainer?
While caring for your smile will take a little extra effort when you’re wearing braces, it won’t be an all-consuming task, and maintaining your oral health will help ensure your treatment runs smoothly. Here are some pointers:
- ALWAYS remember to brush your teeth after every meal and floss at least once a day.
- Make sure to use toothpaste that contains fluoride and ask your orthodontist or general dentist if you need a fluoride rinse. This will help prevent cavities.
- If you take out your retainer to eat, brush your teeth or floss, remember to keep it safe in its container so that it doesn’t get lost or broken. Napkins and tissues are the enemy of orthodontic appliances and how retainers frequently get thrown out by accident.
- Keep your retainer clean by brushing it gently with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also use a denture cleaner twice a week. Do not use hot or boiling water or the dishwasher.
- During your treatment, try to avoid foods with a lot of sugar. Sugar increases the amount of bacteria that grows in your mouth, causing more plaque and possibly cavities.
- Avoid sticky and chewy foods (caramel, chewing gum, gummy bears), hard foods (hard candy, nuts, ice cubes, raw carrots) or any foods that could get stuck in your braces (corn on the cob, soft bagels, ribs, taffy, etc.). We’ll give you a comprehensive list of foods to avoid and foods you can eat.
- Be sure to schedule your routine checkups with your family dentist. It’s recommended that you continue to visit the dentist every six months.
Do I need to brush my teeth more often if I have braces?
With braces, you should brush your teeth at least three times a day to keep your teeth, gums and mouth healthy, clean and happy. Brushing regularly will help you remove any food that may be caught between the braces. You should also floss daily to get into the areas your toothbrush can’t reach. We’ll show you how to brush and floss properly once your braces are placed.
If I have braces, do I still need dental checkups every six months?
Yes! In fact, it’s even more important for patients receiving orthodontic treatment to visit their general dentist regularly. With braces, food can get caught in places your toothbrush can’t reach, which causes bacteria to build up and can lead to cavities, gingivitis and gum disease. Your dentist will work closely with your orthodontist to make sure your teeth stay clean and healthy while you’re wearing your braces.
Will my braces interfere with school activities like sports, playing an instrument or singing?
While playing an instrument or a contact sport may require some adjustment when you first get your braces put on, braces won’t stop you from participating in any of your activities. If you play sports, we highly recommend a mouth guard to protect your teeth, lips and cheeks, as well as your braces or appliance.
How often do I need to come in for appointments when I’m wearing braces?
Depending on your needs, you’ll come in every six to eight weeks. This allows us to make necessary adjustments and ensure your progress stays on track.
What happens when my braces get put on?
The procedure is painless and takes less than an hour. First, we polish your teeth and get them ready for the special dental adhesive. Then, Dr. Ibrahim or Dr. Gin paints on the glue and sticks your brackets onto the front of your teeth. When they’re bonded, they slide your archwires through the brackets. We finish up by giving you all of the information you need to care for your braces.
What happens when I get my braces taken off?
Dr. Ibrahim or Dr. Gin use special tools to remove your brackets and wires, which doesn’t hurt at all. They scrape off any leftover adhesive and polish your teeth before letting you see your beautiful new smile.
Do I have to wear a retainer after braces treatment?
Yes. The only way to retain your teeth in their final position is with a retainer. We use clear, comfortable Vivera® retainers so no one will even notice you’re wearing it.
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