Showing posts with label orthodontist chicago. Show all posts
Showing posts with label orthodontist chicago. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Come to the Dentist Together!


Children love to do what their parents do. Have you ever seen a mother cook dinner while her daughter is in the kitchen? Or a dad shave in the bathroom with his son present? I have, and it usually goes that the mom cannot bring the pot to the stove, and the dad can barely get the shaving cream on his face before their son or daughter is imitating their parents every move. Kids admire their parents and if mom or dad is doing it, then it has to be awesome. This rule carries over to the dentist as well. The dentist is often a place that induces great fear and anxiety in children. That fear usually stems in a number of things, a few of the most common are being away from their parents, the unknown, and fear of being hurt. As a family friendly Chicago Orthodontist, Dentistry4Children offers a great way to reduce this fear in your child: Go to the dentist together! 

It is important to note is that dental health really begins in childhood, and dental health, in a great part, leads to dental beauty.  As a child, seeing the dentist on a regular basis is important for many reasons.  By going to the dentist regularly children are taught good dental habits and are held responsible if their dental hygiene is not up to par at their next visit. One of the most important reasons dentists urge parents to make appointments for their children is to build good habits for their kids.These habits are carried on into adulthood and passed down to their own children. Another reason regular dental visits are encouraged is to reduce their fear. The more we are exposed to something, the less scary it becomes; so bringing kids to the dentist on a regular basis relieves the anxiety. If it seems normal, then it must be okay!

While ensuring health and building good habits are two of the main reasons that children are typically encouraged to visit the dentist, visiting a Chicago orthodontist is also good for parents. Like almost everything else in the world seems to be, dentistry has changed a lot since parents were kids. The technology and techniques that orthodontists use are far more advanced than even those of ten years ago. An orthodontist in Chicago can now  not only predict future problems, but also have the means to prevent these problems.

By coming to this family-friendly orthodontist in Chicago with their children, parents can not only ease their child's anxiety and help make the dentist a more stress free environment (because if mom or dad is doing it, it can't be that scary), but they can also learn about how they can aid in helping their child's smile in the long run. They can learn of new techniques and measure the growth and development of their child's mouth. When looking for a Chicago Orthodontist, no other office can can compete with the experience of Dentistry4Children.



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Benefits of Early Orthodontics


From the time that teeth begin to develop, parents can see patterns in how the child's jaw and mouth are developing. What many parents do not realize, is that this is a perfect time for the child to visit an orthodontist. Since the child is so early on in their oral development, the mouth is easier to manipulate and fix. A Chicago Orthodontist can not only see problems that are happening in your mouth in real time, but can predict future problems as well. Early orthodontics is greatly recommended for children with problems such as overly narrow bites, cross bites, and over/ under bites. When looking for a Chicago Othodontist, Dentistry4Children is experienced in pediatric orthodontics and working with problem smiles starting at young ages.

A cross bite occurs when the top and bottom teeth are not aligned correctly. Cross bites can lead to problems with chewing and uneven growth of the jaw. It is much easier to fix at a younger age and can be corrected in a shorter period of time when the child is younger because the jaw bone is still growing and malleable.

A narrow arch is another problem that can be fixed effectively in younger children. A narrow arch is when the upper jaw makes a sharp "U" shape instead of the preferred wider, ovoid shape that a Chicago orthodontist would recommend.  Narrow bites can cause many problems for patients including crowding of teeth and irregular alignment of teeth. This problem is much harder and can take far more time to repair in an adult patient.

An anterior crossbite, also known as an underbite, occurs when one or more of the top front teeth bite behind the lower front teeth.  Underbites can cause gum recession in the lower front teeth, prevent normal growth of the lower jaw, and lead to excessive wear of the front teeth. Like other crossbites and narrowbites, underbites are much easier to fix in patients who are younger.

While seeing an orthodontist in Chicago at younger ages is still somewhat new and may seem extreme to some parents, the technology that a Chicago Orthodontist has is growing rapidly, and the problems that pediatric dentists can now observe and predict  are much easier to fix when the child is younger and is still developing. Treatment for such problems at a younger age can reduce the time spend correcting the mouth and can also reduce much of the pain that comes in treating jaw problems after the bones are already set and formed.

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Thursday, April 19, 2012

What types of Braces the best for you?


Braces are common for children and teenagers says Dr. Boyd Orthodontist Chicago. This can be from genetics, bad eating habits, or  injuries. There are many components to braces. One being brackets.  There are three types of brackets says the orthodontist in Chicago. Regular brackets are made of steel or clear colored plastic and are then mounted to the front of every tooth. Then there are Lingual-type brackets. These are used on the back of the teeth rather than the front. Orthodontist Chicago says this may be ideal for patients who are worried about their appearance. The final type is traditional bands. These are better known as the full metal mouthful.

The Orthodontist in Chicago says that different braces apply to different types of teeth, Come in today and let the Chicago Orthodontist check out what braces would be best for your child.



Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Ways to get your kids to brush their teeth

Brushing and Flossing Your Child's Teeth

Brushing
Most children spend less than a minute brushing their teeth. Oral health care professionals recommend, however, that they brush for two to three minutes. If it helps, try putting a timer in the bathroom or giving your child a toothbrush with a timer built in. This way, your child will know how long to brush. Or, have them brush for the length of a song, which is generally two to three minutes.
It's especially important that your child brush his or her teeth before going to bed at night. The eight to 10 hours your child is asleep gives bacteria lots of time to feast on food particles left on the teeth and produce enamel-eating acid. The flow of saliva in the mouth also is lower at night so food is less likely to be washed off the teeth.
The technique for brushing your child's teeth is the same whether you do it or he or she does it. If your child is too young to do it him or herself, it may be easiest to cradle his or her head in your one arm while keeping your other hand free to brush.
To brush your child's teeth:
  1. Place the toothbrush alongside the teeth. The bristles should be at a 45-degree angle to the gum line.
  2. Gently move the brush in a small circular motion cleaning one tooth at time. Be sure to have a system so you don't miss any teeth. For instance, you might start with the bottom back tooth and work your way to the front, then repeat on the opposite side of the mouth before switching to the top teeth.
  3. Brush across the chewing surfaces, making sure the bristles get into the grooves and crevices. Clean the side of the teeth that face the tongue using the same circular motion. Again, start in the back and work your way forward. Remember to brush the inside of the top teeth, too.
  4. Brush your child's tongue lightly to remove bacteria and keep breath smelling good.
  5. Have your child rinse his or her mouth with water.
Most children miss the molars and the tongue sides of the bottom teeth when brushing. Be sure to pay special attention to these areas.
Flossing
Once any two of your child's teeth touch each other, it's time to start flossing. Flossing helps prevent cavities by removing plaque and food particles caught between teeth. It should be an important part of your child's dental routine.
Your child should be able to floss his or her own teeth by the time he or she is 9 years old. To floss younger children's teeth, place them in your lap facing you. The technique is the same, no matter who is doing it. To floss your child's teeth:
  1. Take about 18 inches of dental floss and wrap one end around each of your middle fingers.
  2. Using your thumbs and index fingers as guides, gently slide the floss between two teeth, using a saw-like motion.
  3. Once at the gum line, pull both ends of the floss in the same direction to form a C shape against one tooth. Pull the floss tightly and move it up and down against one tooth.
  4. Pull the floss against the other tooth and repeat the motion.
  5. Repeat this for all of the teeth. Be sure to floss both sides of the teeth farthest back in the mouth.
Remember, good oral hygiene is an important part of your child's overall health. Your child can get off to a good start by:
  • Seeing a dentist regularly
  • Brushing twice a day and flossing at night before bedtime at home
  • Getting the right amount of fluoride
  • Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables
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Identity Dental marketing

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Dr. Kevin Boyd, leader in Orthotropics Chicago

 Dr. Kevin L. Boyd, leading pediatric dentist in Chicago, provides leading orthodontic treatment, Orthotropics, to his patients.

Content from Orthotropics.com


Orthodontic clinicians in the past have been severely criticised by scientists for ignoring the scientific evidence. Here are some of the comments about orthodontics from world scientific heavyweights they are “behind homeopathy and on a par with scientology” (Sackett 1985), their work is “based on trial and error” (Johnston 1990), the schools “teach technical skills rather than scientific thinking” (Richards 2000), “Sadly it is hard to see this situation change unless the inadequacy of current knowledge is acknowledged” (Shaw 2000), their treatment of crowding “treats a symptom, not the cause”. (Frankel 2001).


Orthodontists are taught that the size and shape of the jaws is inherited and most of their treatment is based on this belief. Clearly if the teeth were too large for the jaws some teeth would have to be extracted but there is almost no evidence to show that this is true.

Many orthodontists consider crowded teeth are caused by interbreeding between humans with different sized jaws. Biologists do not support this view, and even if a 100 kg Great Dane were crossed with a 1kg Chihuahua the offspring would be unlikely to have a malocclusion. There is evidence to suggest that the size of the teeth and jaws is inherited, but little to suggest that disproportionate growth is.

Some orthodontists believe that evolution has caused jaws to become smaller over the last few thousand years (Walpoff 1975). Certainly crowding has got worse, but this has been mostly within the last 400 years (More 1968), which is far too short a period for an evolutionary change. Also an evolutionary change would have to start in one area and spread, but irregular teeth are found all over the world, wherever people take their standard of living above a certain level.

Despite this overwhelming evidence, most orthodontic treatment is still carried out on the basis that disproportionate jaws are inherited and that little can be done to change them. Based on this belief and in contradiction to the evidence the teeth are moved into line mechanically usually coupled with the extraction of either four or eight permanent teeth. If the jaws are in the wrong position orthodontists may recommend that they are cut and corrected surgically. Many thousands of children and young adults have this surgery each year although a substantial proportion of those who have been told that surgery is the "only answer" have subsequently been corrected with Orthotropics. Despite this surgeons are refusing to tell there patients that there might be an alternative.

Iatrogenic Damage caused by ‘Train Tracks’.
Scientists have clearly shown that ‘train tracks’ can damage both the roots and the enamel. "Over 90% of the roots of the teeth show signs of damage following treatment with fixed appliances". (Kurol, et al 1996). "40% of patients show shortening of more than 2.5mm". (Mirabella and Artun 1995). This is a substantial proportion of the root length and must shorten the life of the teeth. Enamel damage, with fixed appliances, is rapid, widespread and long-term. (Ogaard et al 1988) (Ogaard 1989) (Alexander 1993).
All orthodontists accept that faces can be damaged by inappropriate treatment but they disagree about which approach will cause least damage. "The maxillary retraction associated with ‘train tracks’ (Edgewise) contributes to the poorer aesthetic result." (Battagel 1996) and may be "accompanied by exaggerated vertical facial growth".

It is known that ‘Train Tracks’ tend to lengthen the face ( Lundstrom,A. &Woodside,D.G. 1980) and that longer faces look less attractive’ (Lundstrom et al 1987). However there is little sound research to establish how often or how severe the damage may be.
Twins who are genetically identical still show more contrast in the shape of their jaws than any other part of their skeleton (Krause 1959) showing that much of the variation is due to non-genetic environmental factors such as open mouth postures and unusual swallowing habits that distort the growth of the jaws. Orthodontists in the past have found it difficult to explain why modern children have so much malocclusion but the following new hypothesis appears to fit the known facts better than those put forward previously: -
"Environmental factors disrupt resting oral posture, increasing vertical skeletal growth and creating a dental malocclusion, the occlusal characteristics of which are determined by inherited muscle patterns, primarily of the tongue" (Mew 2004).
Most children with sticking out front teeth are treated by pulling them back. However, if you look at the side of such a child's face, you can see that the fault is often their lower jaw which is too far back (see Antonia below). Almost all orthodontists pull back the top teeth in this situation risking an increase in downward growth with subsequent damage to the face. It is important that prospective patients are warned of this risk, because little research is being done to establish how often it occurs. However Antonia had Orthotropics to take both her upper and lower jaws forward.
Forward growth treated sucessfully without fixed appliances or extractions
In conclusion, space to align the teeth can be provided by extractions and ‘train tracks’ but the crowding is likely to return, especially of the lower front teeth (Little 1988). There is also a risk of damage to the teeth and face. Orthotropics aims to avoid extractions by early correction of the cause rather than later treatment of the result, but is highly dependent on the ability of the child to learn to keep their mouth closed.

Pediatric Dentist Chicago
Blog Maintained by: Identity Dental Marketing

Friday, June 3, 2011

Pediatric Dentist

Why Choose a Pediatric Dentist?

There are a number of reasons why you should choose a pediatric dentist for your child.  Pediatric dentists receive specialty training in addition to their doctorate in dentistry.  During the two-year period after dental school, pediatric dentists learn skills specific to treating children. The doctors learn how to provide care for special needs patients, young children, and fearful children.

Pediatric dentists also learn more about growth and development.  This allows them to identify orthodontic problems early, in order to suggest the most effective treatment.

When children first visit the dentist, it can cause anxiety.  If their early visits to the dentist are not pleasant, it could lead to a lifetime of dental phobia. Pediatric dentists often usually have ways to make the dental visit fun and comforting for the child.

The AAPD, American Associattion of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a dentist before his/her first birthday.  This initial visit will get the child comfortable with dental visits.  It also will allow the pediatric dentist to evaluate your child's oral health.  Oral problems in babies can be treated painlessly if they are identified early.

For more information about our office visit http://www.dentistry4children.net.

Pediatric Dentist Chicago
Orthodontist Chicago

Post by: Identity Dental Marketing

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Pediatric Dentist | Orthodontist | Chicago

Chicago Pediatric Dentist



Child's First Visit
It is very important to start children early in the right direction for good dental hygiene.  A starting time for that first dental exam is when your child's teeth begin to appear, usually before age one.  You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive.  Your child should be informed of the visit.  We will take the time to get to know your child and make sure he/she is comfortable while in our office. 

It is best to keep from using words around your child that might cause anxiety or fear, such as needle, pull, drill or hurt.

Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to a child.

We encourage patients to come back to the treatment room alone so we may build a secure and comfortable relationship with them.  We find when the parent is present, their attention to us is divided.

Unlike some dental offices, we invite parents to accompany their child.  Brushing techniques, flossing, healthy snacks and fluoride recommendations are just some of the topics discussed during your child's initial cleaning and exam appointment. Most importantly, your child becomes comfortable with visiting the dentist from an early age.  It also allows us to watch growth patterns and look for any oral problems that may exist.

pediatric dentist chicago
orthodontist chicago

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Friday, February 18, 2011

Pediatric Dentist Chicago Free Parking

Just a reminder...

Although we are located in the heart of Lincoln Park, we do provide parking for our patients and families behind our building.  

We also provide dental care for adults and have an experienced general dentist on staff (Dr. Pannaralla). 

We also offer Orthodontic care for children. 


Post by: Identity Dental Marketing

Why Choose A Pediatric Dentist

As pediatric dentist in Chicago, Dr. Boyd, is trained to create a positive enjoyable experience for children visiting the dental office.

Pediatric dentists must  complete a two-year specialty residency in addition to their basic four years of dental school.  The residency focuses on the special care of children from infancy through adolescence.  The doctors learn about the processes of a growing, changing and developing child.  They learn specifically about the mouth, face, head and neck development.  This residency also teaches dentists how the growing body’s health and nutrition relates to the oral health of the growing child.  During these  studies dentists learn how to calm an anxious young patient and how to use the dental equipment designed for children.

Dr. Boyd, like most pediatric dentists, specializes in the care of infants, children and adolescents as well as children and adults with special needs .  Dental care for an infant should begin as early as six months, or at the time the child receives his/her first tooth.  A pediatric dentist is trained to understand the growth and development of the mouth, the process of oral maturation and can identify and correct irregular growth patterns to create a solid bite and beautiful smile.

Pediatric dental offices often function, look, and feel different from a general dentist offices.  It is all part of helping a child and family have positive dental experiences.  At Dentistry For Children we focus on helping the child understand the importance and simplicity of a healthy nutrition and good oral health routines that will create strong beautiful teeth to last a lifetime.


Post by: Identity Dental Marketing

Friday, January 21, 2011

Dental Care for Your Baby


Dental Care for Your Baby (According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry)

Q. When should my child first see a dentist?
"First visit by first birthday" sums it up. Your child should visit a pediatric dentist when the first tooth comes in, usually between 6 and 12 months of age. This visit will establish a dental home for your child. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future.

Q. Why so early? What dental problems could a baby have?
The most important reason is to begin a thorough prevention program. Dental problems can begin early. A big concern is Early Childhood Caries (formerly known as baby bottle tooth decay or nursing caries). Once a child’s diet includes anything besides breast-milk, erupted teeth are at risk for decay. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental problems. Children with healthy teeth chew food easily and smile with confidence. Start your child now on a lifetime of good dental habits.

Q. How can I prevent tooth decay from nursing or using a bottle?
At-will breast-feeding should be avoided after the first primary (baby) teeth begin to erupt and other sources of nutrition have been introduced. Children should not fall asleep with a bottle containing anything other than water. Drinking juice from a bottle should be avoided. Fruit juice should only be offered in a cup with meals or at snack time.

Q. When should bottle-feeding be stopped?
Children should be weaned from the bottle at 12-14 months of age.

Q. Should I worry about thumb and finger sucking?
Thumb sucking is perfectly normal for infants; many stop by age 2. Prolonged thumb sucking can create crooked teeth or bite problems. If the habit continues beyond age 3, a professional evaluation is recommended. Your pediatric dentist will be glad to suggest ways to address a prolonged thumb sucking habit.

Q. When should I start cleaning my baby’s teeth?
The sooner the better! Starting at birth, clean your child’s gums with a soft infant toothbrush or cloth and water. As soon as the teeth begin to appear, start brushing twice daily using fluoridated toothpaste and a soft, age-appropriate sized toothbrush. Use a "smear" of toothpaste to brush the teeth of a child less than 2 years of age. For the 2-5 year old, dispense a "pea-size" amount of toothpaste and perform or assist your child’s toothbrushing. Remember that young children do not have the ability to brush their teeth effectively.

Thursday, January 13, 2011

Shocking Dental Statistics

Dental Care is still a very neglected form of healthcare in children in the United States.
42% of children 2 to 11 have had Tooth Decay (dental caries) in their primary teeth.
Children 2 to 11 have an average of 1.6 decayed primary teeth and 3.6 decayed primary surfaces.
21% of children 6 to 11 have had Tooth Decay (dental caries) in their permanent teeth.
8% of children 6 to 11 have untreated decay.

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Pediatric Dentistry & Dental Phobia

Bringing your child to the dentist from an early age can prevent dental phobia later in life.

When children see their parents visiting the dentist and when they receive professional dental care from a trusted dentist, they learn the importance of a healthy lifestyle.

At Dentistry For Children And Families, children are taught the importance of at-home care.  They also learn about nutrition at each appointment.

To contact Dentistry For Children and Families in Chicago Illinois, visit Children's Dentist Chicago.

Orthodontist Chicago

Post by: Identity Dental Marketing

Monday, January 3, 2011

Top 10 Reasons to bring your child to the dentist

10.  Instill habits that promote good health from an early age.

9.  Have your child's growth patterns observed from an early age to provide orthodontic treatment at the right time.

8.  Prevent painful cavities through professional cleanings.

7.  Provide sealants to your child's molars to prevent decay.

6.  Establish a comfortable dental "home" for your child.

5.  Prevent dental phobia, which can evolve if the child isn't used to regular dental check ups.

4.  Provide your child with professional, regular dental health related education.

3.  Teach your children from an early age that their oral health is important.

2.  Because you don't want your child to be "the smelly kid" in school.

1.  Establish important dental habits that will lead to a lifetime of smiles!

Contact us at Pediatric Dentist Chicago
Orthodontist Chicago

Post by: Identity Dental Marketing