McClellan Orthodontics - Blog

Happy Thanksgiving from McClellan Orthodontics!

2011-11-21T10:04:00.000-08:00

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season knocking at our door, Dr. Mart McClellan and our entire staff at McClellan Orthodontics wanted to stop for a moment and extend our best wishes to you, our patients, referring doctors and families, for a wonderful Thanksgiving.

As always, if you know anyone we can help, just let us know. We promise to give them the same quality orthodontic care that we have given you.

We hope that this Thanksgiving and holiday season brings fond memories. Thank you for being part of our family.

Staying in touch with our wonderful patients

2011-11-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

We love our patients at McClellan Orthodontics, and we especially enjoy keeping in touch with them after their orthodontic treatment is completed. One of our patients moved away and we sent her some of our office pens, her favorite! Her mother sent us this wonderful note and picture:

Dear McClellan Orthodontics,

I just received the following photo from Anja with an explanation of how she received the pens. We will have you to thank at the end of Anja's college career for supplying her with the colorful pens! Thank you so much for sending them to her:)

We are all doing well and have settled comfortably here in Virginia.

With sincerely appreciation,

D

Thank you for staying in touch with our office!

What are your November plans?

2011-11-08T11:35:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, we’re almost in full holiday mode! But before you go celebrating, Dr. Mart McClellan and our team at McClellan Orthodontics want to know: What are your plans for November? Do you have plans for Thanksgiving? Are you planning a winter vacation? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!

You may share your stories with us below, or by posting on our Facebook page!

–The team at McClellan Orthodontics

5 tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. McClellan

2011-11-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth. Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth during orthodontic treatment, courtesy of WebMD.

Let’s start with brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Plaque is known to reach the spaces between teeth.

Also, evading a trip to the dentist is probably not a great idea. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. Consider visiting your general dentist at least twice a year or as recommended by your dentist, and you have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth while wearing braces.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth. They include apples, carrots, cucumbers and other raw fruits and vegetables. You can still eat these types of fruits and veggies if you have braces, but be sure to cut them up into bite sized pieces to avoid breaking off brackets.

Finally, before you pick up that candy bar, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and your mouth as healthy as can be during your orthodontic treatment with Dr. Mart McClellan. If you have any questions, give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Halloween Candy Buy Back at McClellan Orthodontics

2011-10-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for Halloween and trick-or-treating, and that means lots of CANDY! Dr. Mart McClellan and our team at McClellan Orthodontics are excited to announce that in November we are having a Halloween Candy Buy Back in our office! We will be giving our patients $1.00 per pound of excess Halloween candy that they bring in to us! Additionally, for every 3 pounds they turn in they will also get a raffle ticket to win a Nintendo DSI hand held game system!! We will then match the dollar amount we have paid for the candy and donate it to the American Cancer Society. How great is that?

The candy that you bring in must be uneaten and sealed. Thank you in advance for your candy donations! Keep your eye right here on our blog for specific dates and additional details, or give our office a call for more information.

Happy Halloween!

Cold season is here, from McClellan Orthodontics

2011-10-20T14:15:00.000-07:00

Cold and flu season is here - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Dr. Mart McClellan and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our Kenilworth, IL office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at McClellan Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay healthy!

October is National Orthodontic Health Month!

2011-10-14T08:27:00.000-07:00

Happy October! For those who don't know, it’s National Orthodontic Health Month. This month-long event is organized by our pals at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

Dr. Mart McClellan and our team realize that this is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness about the importance of oral hygiene. National Orthodontic Health Month also aims to recognize the dedicated work of orthodontists like Dr. McClellan and other dental professionals in Kenilworth, IL.

The AAO recommends patients avoid the following Halloween treats, or recipes with these ingredients:

• Caramel
• Nuts
• Popcorn (including un-popped kernels)
• Taffy
• Jelly beans
• Hard pretzels
• Licorice
• Bubblegum
• Ice

If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call, ask us on Facebook, or ask us at McClellan Orthodontics during your visit this month!

Breaking bad oral health habits

2011-10-03T15:53:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Dr. Mart McClellan.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. McClellan if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact McClellan Orthodontics or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

20 things that can ruin your smile, from McClellan Orthodontics

2011-09-26T14:49:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we know your smile is important. And we know you want to keep it sparkling and looking its very best. Recently, we came across an article that suggests at least 20 things can ruin that perfect smile you have.

These include:

- Sports drinks
- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Wine
- Soft drinks
- Citrus and acidic foods

Dr. Mart McClellan and our team encourage you to read the rest of the article and ask us here on our blog or during your next visit to our convenient Kenilworth, IL office. For more tips or for general questions about your ongoing dental treatment, we invite you to ask Dr. McClellan during your next visit! We also invite you to ask us on Facebook!

Why are straight teeth so important?

2011-09-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Kenilworth, IL orthodontist Dr. Mart McClellan and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly-aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at McClellan Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. McClellan can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Emergency Care at McClellan Orthodontics

2011-09-12T14:18:00.001-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we know orthodontic emergencies are never convenient nor timely. If you are a patient of record, Dr. Mart McClellan and our team are committed to your dental health and are more than willing to see you after hours or over the weekend. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem. If you have a orthodontic emergency after regular office hours, please give us a call. If you are calling us after hours, please follow the emergency prompts to learn how you may be able to solve the problem yourself, or, if you cannot, how to contact Dr. McClellan and team.

Common issues include:

*Broken Brace
*Broken Wires
*Tie has come off of a Brace
*Loose Expander
*Poking Wire Tie
*Sharpness Felt on the Tongue Side of a Brace
*Loss of a Separator
*Initial Soreness
*Wire Poking

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you visit our office.

The Go-To Mom Talks Invisalign

2011-09-07T14:25:00.000-07:00

Our team at McClellan Orthodontics found a great video that discusses the advantages of Invisalign. In the video, Kimberley Clayton Blaine, "The Go-To Mom," discusses the Invisalign and Invisalign Teen treatment and her personal experience with Invisalign.

To determine if Invisalign is right for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Mart McClellan. Have a great week!

When should you call McClellan Orthodontics?

2011-08-30T08:20:00.000-07:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Dr. Mart McClellan. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

The team at McClellan Orthodontics

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-08-24T08:50:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at McClellan Orthodontics and Dr. Mart McClellan has informed you that during your orthodontic treatment you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that will allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care!
Recipes include main dishes, side dishes and even yummy desserts! After all, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps the patient achieve the best possible results from orthodontic treatment.

If you have any questions about the recipes listed or about the foods you should be avoiding during your orthodontic treatment, please give us a call or ask us on Facebook!

Enjoy!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2011-08-15T14:30:00.000-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting McClellan Orthodontics, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the last six months, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Kenilworth area!

The benefits of straight teeth, from McClellan Orthodontics

2011-08-08T13:50:00.000-07:00

Some people wonder why Kenilworth orthodontist Dr. Mart McClellan and our team work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. Of course it’s nice to have a smile full of evenly-aligned teeth, but did you know that straightening your teeth at McClellan Orthodontics can keep them healthier? Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime!

Straight teeth are less prone to decay, because they collect less plaque—the sticky colorless substance that forms on our teeth and leads to tooth decay; and they are easier to keep clean!

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Dr. McClellan can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

What is malocclusion?

2011-08-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

Malocclusion, or what Dr. Mart McClellan calls “bad bite,” is the improper alignment of teeth and/or jaws. When your teeth and jaws are not properly aligned, it may impact your bite, the ability to properly care for your teeth, your gum tissue health and even your appearance.

Most people experience some degree of malocclusion, but it generally is not severe enough to require corrective measures. If your malocclusion is serious enough, however, treatment may be necessary to correct the issue.

Dr. McClellan will tell you that untreated malocclusion can lead undesirable mouth problems, including tooth decay, gum disease, or chipped and cracked teeth. The most common solution for malocclusion, of course, is orthodontic treatment. The actual course of treatment, including the length of time you will require braces, will be determined by severity of your malocclusion. The goal of your treatment is to move your teeth into the proper position and correct any misalignment in the jaw.

At McClellan Orthodontics, we use the most advanced technology in the field in order to ensure that you receive the best possible results. If you have any questions about malocclusion, please give us a call and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have.

How to freshen bad breath, with McClellan Orthodontics

2011-07-27T10:26:00.000-07:00

Mart McClellan, your Kenilworth orthodontist, recognizes that many of our patients are concerned about bad breath, or halitosis. While some cases of bad breath are persistent (chronic bad breath), generally bad breath is transient, and can be prevented.

We recently came across this helpful video about bad breath and thought it was worth sharing with our patients. The video explains what might cause bad breath and some ways that it can be avoided. In most instances, bad breath can be prevented by practicing common oral hygiene techniques that you have probably heard us emphasize during a visit to McClellan Orthodontics, such as brushing and flossing daily. We encourage you to watch this video for additional tips on how to keep bad breath at bay. Enjoy!

Ask Dr. McClellan: Who benefits from braces?

2011-07-20T15:45:00.000-07:00

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Dr. Mart McClellan will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment for a consultation and find out how orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

Is Invisalign really customized for each patient?

2011-07-14T13:12:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Dr. Mart McClellan. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. McClellan is a certified Invisalign provider in Kenilworth. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Keep cool with this braces-friendly summer recipe!

2011-07-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. What’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients

• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind

Directions

In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

-Dr. Mart McClellan and team

Orthodontic Emergency Care with McClellan Orthodontics

2011-06-30T08:14:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with Dr. McClellan.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with McClellan Orthodontics.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Summer reading with McClellan Orthodontics

2011-06-22T17:38:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at McClellan Orthodontics wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

This summer, our office manager Patti Mosberg recommends the Hunger Games trilogy for young adults. Similarly to Harry Potter, she's noticed that both adults and children can't seem to put it down! Other quick, good reads are The Help, The Kitchen House and Persian Girls.

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Feel free to share your favorite summer picks or all-time favorites on our Facebook page.

What do you LOVE about Kenilworth?

2011-06-17T13:33:00.000-07:00

McClellan Orthodontics, your Kenilworth orthodontist, is situated around some pretty unique neighborhoods. Each is special with its own personality, created by the people and places (and our amazing patients) living within.

Today, Dr. McClellan and our team thought we'd ask: What are your favorite things about Kenilworth? Is there a local event you attend every year? Do you have a favorite eatery? Perhaps a favorite getaway in Illinois?

Please feel free to share some information about your favorite local hang-outs in Kenilworth, and everything you love best about “your neck of the woods” in Illinois.

If you need to schedule your next appointment, give us a call! Have a great week!

June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at McClellan Orthodontics to support National Smile Month this June.

Show off your pearly whites by posting your favorite smile photos on the wall of our Facebook page. We look forward to seeing what you share!

Flossing with braces, from Dr. McClellan

2011-06-03T15:38:00.000-07:00

Dr. McClellan will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give McClellan Orthodontics a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

Your summer smile questions, answered!

2011-05-26T14:01:00.000-07:00

Summer is just around the corner, which for many people means vacations, baseball season, days spent at the beach, and fun in the sun! Now that you have braces, it’s important to take special precautions to prevent facial injuries and preserve your healthy smile for a lifetime. That’s why Dr. McClellan and our team wanted to answer a few of the common questions that we often receive from patients and their parents during the summer months.

How can I prevent my teeth from becoming chipped or broken while I play sports this summer?

While playing sports, a mouth guard should always be worn.

If I am hit in the mouth, and a tooth gets knocked out, what can/should I do? What should I do if I am injured on a weekend when the office is closed?

If you have milk nearby then put your tooth in a cup of milk as soon as possible. There are also solutions available at a pharmacy to keep the tooth in. If neither option is possible, then keep the tooth in your mouth, under your tongue to avoid swallowing it. Call your general dentist immediately, they will always have an emergency number available for their patients.

Can my teeth be fixed if they are chipped, broken or knocked out?

Yes, if a tooth is chipped or broken your dentist will be able to bond and repair the tooth. If the tooth has been knocked out completely at the gum line, your dentist will explain replacement options to you such as crowns, implants, veneers and other cosmetic options.

Are sports drinks bad for my teeth?

The best drink for hydration is water. It replenishes your body naturally and does not harm your teeth. Sports drinks have a large amount of added sugar, if possible, drink them with a straw. As soon as you are finished with the sport you are playing brush your teeth or at the very least rinse well with water.

If I wear Invisalign aligners, will they help protect my teeth, or do I still need to wear a mouth guard?

When playing sports, we recommend that patients wear their remove aligners and a mouth guard that is made to protect the teeth. Invisalign aligners are not mouth guards and will not protect your teeth from injury.

Can I still play sports while wearing my retainer, or is it best to take it out?

Remove your retainer while playing sports. Retainers are made to hold alignment not protect impact. Always wear a mouth guard!

Can I still wear a mouth guard with braces?

Yes, you need to wear a non fitted mouth guard while in braces. They sit loose in the mouth and are not fitted which would knock off brackets. While wearing braces your mouth is always changing. Do not wear the type of mouth guard that you need to boil and bite in to, they are too tight and will break the brackets off.

What, exactly, are wisdom teeth?

2011-05-17T12:04:00.001-07:00

Wisdom teeth are a type of molar that is found in the very back of your mouth and are the last molars to develop. There are four wisdom teeth: upper left, upper right, lower left, and lower right. These teeth usually appear in late teens or early twenties but may become impacted (fail to erupt) due to lack of room in the jaw or angle of entry. The removal of wisdom teeth has become so commonplace that it is almost a rite of passage for young adults.

Dr. McClellan will tell you that when a tooth is impacted, it may need to be removed. If it is not removed, you may develop gum tenderness, swelling, or even severe pain. Impacted wisdom teeth that are partially or fully erupted tend to be quite difficult to clean and are susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and yes, even gum disease.

In addition to visiting our website with any questions you may have about wisdom teeth, our friends at WebMD have developed a helpful explanation about wisdom teeth and how they impact your health. Also, feel free to give us a call with any questions you have or ask us on Facebook!

McClellan Orthodontics supports National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

2011-05-13T15:05:00.001-07:00

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At McClellan Orthodontics, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-05-06T15:35:00.000-07:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. McClellan Orthodontics loves to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment with Dr. McClellan, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call McClellan Orthodontics to get started on improving your smile today!

Tackling kids' sport safety with Dr. McClellan

2011-04-28T11:59:00.001-07:00

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why McClellan Orthodontics is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Dr. McClellan will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Dr. McClellan is trying to achieve.

Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at McClellan Orthodontics.

Five tips to avoid plaque, from Dr. McClellan

2011-04-21T16:30:00.000-07:00

Dr. McClellan and our team know nobody likes getting plaque on their teeth, much less hearing the word 'plaque.' Here are five other ways you can avoid that dreaded enemy of the teeth, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Let’s start with not brushing regularly. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride-containing toothpaste is vital to a healthy mouth. Make sure you softly brush all the surfaces of your teeth.

Next on the list is not flossing daily: a simple daily flossing between teeth and braces clears away plaque before it can cause damage and can also clean plaque at the gum line. Please let us know if you need any tips for flossing with braces!

Dr. McClellan recommends that you visit your dentist every 6 months (or as recommended) for regular checkups. Let’s say you brush and floss daily. You’re still at risk for plaque. With time, the plaque hardens and turns into tartar. If you visit your dentist at least twice a year (in addition to visiting McClellan) you will have a lower chance of getting cavities or losing your teeth.

You’ll also want to stop avoiding those fruits and veggies. Believe it or not, there are foods out there that play a key role in keeping plaque off our teeth.

Finally, before you pick that candy up, remember to not give in to your sweet tooth. Consuming sugary drinks or eating candy or other junk food allows sugar to stick to our teeth. The bacteria, then, becomes plaque, which turns into acid and damages our teeth. Avoiding these five bad habits keeps your plaque in check and will help ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions, please give us a call or schedule an appointment!

Wear those retainers! From McClellan Orthodontics

2011-04-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at McClellan Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. McClellan will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. McClellan is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Dr. McClellan, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

With McClellan Orthodontics, patients of all ages can have a beautiful smile

2011-04-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best with McClellan Orthodontics!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Dr. McClellan. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, give McClellan Orthodontics a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

Cheese and your oral health

2011-03-29T17:04:00.000-07:00

Did you know research shows cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth? Not only does cheese provide large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also fights cavities. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Swiss and Mozzarella all do their part to stimulate our salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris ...and protect them from acids that weaken them.

What does that mean? Cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's pH level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Hope this helps!

A great braces-friendly spring recipe!

2011-03-23T17:10:00.001-07:00

Winter is over, and the weather is finally starting to get warmer. Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) made an appetizing (and braces-friendly!) spring dish that is sure to delight. Remember, a healthy diet provides essential nutrients and helps you achieve the best possible result from your orthodontic treatment.

Soy Simmered Chicken Wraps

Ingredients
• 3 boneless chicken breast halves
• 2 large onions, chunked
• Small flour tortillas (pkg. of ten) wheat or white
• (optional: 10-16 oz. of cooked chopped broccoli)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 Tablespoons honey
• 1/8 teaspoon ginger
• 2 Tablespoons peach or apricot jam
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch

Directions
In a slow cooker, or a large pan on the stove, layer the onions and the chicken breast. Allow at least three hours in the slow cooker on medium, or at least one hour on the stove—the longer the better, but you don’t have to do anything to it while it cooks. Spoon out the chicken onto a cutting board, and with a knife and fork, shred the chicken as finely as you’d like. In a small saucepan, stir all sauce ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture starts bubbling, then let it simmer for five minutes on low heat to thicken. In a serving bowl, stir sauce and onion into chicken; if you’d like, add cooked chopped broccoli. Makes about six to eight servings.

Enjoy this great spring dish and have a great week!

Braces 101 with Dr. McClellan

2011-03-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call McClellan Orthodontics, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Give us a call if you have any questions!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-03-11T11:06:00.001-08:00

There are a variety of foods Dr. McClellan wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. Before long, you'll be able to bite a cucumber again. But you'll need to protect your orthodontic appliances when you eat for as long as you're wearing braces.

Foods you should avoid include:

• Chewy foods: bagels, hard rolls, licorice
• Crunchy foods: popcorn, ice, chips
• Sticky foods: caramels, gum
• Hard foods: nuts, candy
• Foods you have to bite into: corn on the cob, apples, carrots

Also, chewing on hard things (for example, pens, pencils or fingernails) can damage the braces. Damaged braces will cause treatment to take longer.

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give McClellan Orthodontics a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

The benefits of fluoride, from McClellan Orthodontics

2011-03-03T14:32:00.000-08:00

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

A few winter safety tips, from McClellan Orthodontics

2011-02-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Dr. McClellan and our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.
We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at our office.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-10T11:56:00.000-08:00

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why Dr. McClellan and team at McClellan Orthodontics thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be a great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact McClellan Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-02-02T13:50:00.000-08:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? You might remember Dr. McClellan discussing the Braces Brigade in our blog this summer. Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team at McClellan Orthodontics encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Dr. McClellan!

Flossing 101 with Dr. McClellan

2011-01-26T09:34:00.000-08:00

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth. Many people think that flossing is only to get the food out from in between your teeth, when actually flossing should be done every day on every tooth to help protect your teeth and gums.

Dr. McClellan debunks the myths about orthodontics

2011-01-19T15:36:00.000-08:00

Trust us when we say Dr. McClellan and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at McClellan Orthodontics, feel free to give us a call.

Write a review for McClellan Orthodontics!

2011-01-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

From your very first visit to McClellan Orthodontics our doctor and team strive to provide unparalleled orthodontic health care in a positive, friendly atmosphere. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Just select the "Write a Review" button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

-Dr. McClellan and team

What’s so bad about nail biting?

2011-01-03T08:00:00.000-08:00

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at McClellan Orthodontics found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:

• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.
• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.
• Braces don’t love it either. Braces already put pressure on teeth, nail biting ads unnecessary pressure, further stressing your teeth and weakening their roots.
• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?

Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Dr. McClellan or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Make 2011 the year to improve your oral health

2010-12-27T13:53:00.000-08:00

Many folks in Kenilworth, IL consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2011? Dr. McClellan and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

-Your friends at McClellan Orthodontics

Invisalign® and your oral health, from Dr. McClellan

2010-12-22T09:54:00.000-08:00

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with McClellan Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.
Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.
Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. McClellan the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

At McClellan Orthodontics, easy access to your account information

2010-12-13T16:52:00.000-08:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern office conveniently located in Kenilworth, IL.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our website? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! And, because we know folks sometimes forget, you can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

You can sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button at the top of our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

"Hey Dr. McClellan! What's the deal with retainers?"

2010-12-08T11:23:00.001-08:00

Preparing for Cold and Flu Season, from Dr. McClellan

2010-11-30T15:31:00.000-08:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we know that no one wants to get sick when they visit the orthodontist! That's why we take additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs during cold and flu season.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

We hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at McClellan Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask us on Facebook.

McClellan Orthodontics wishes you a happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T12:01:00.000-08:00

Dr. McClellan and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food! What are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

What do you enjoy most about fall in Kenilworth?

2010-11-19T09:39:00.000-08:00

It’s fall here at McClellan Orthodontics, a time when the leaves change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to plan for the upcoming holidays.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Dr. McClellan and our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within our Kenilworth community. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Dr. McClellan thanks everyone who participated in our Halloween Candy Buyback

2010-11-11T10:26:00.001-08:00

Our team at McClellan Orthodontics would like to thank all of our patients who participated in the Halloween Candy Buyback. Dr. McClellan is excited to share that Anna F. was the lucky winner of the iPod Touch in our raffle. Overall, we collected 750 pounds of candy that were donated to Misericordia and a local nursing home. What a fun way to share the bounty - and the sweet and spooky spirit of Halloween!

To view all of the photos from our Halloween Candy Buyback, be sure to visit our Facebook page. Thank you!

Smile wider, live longer, from Kenilworth orthodontist Dr. McClellan!

2010-11-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. McClellan has known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile).

The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting McClellan Orthodontics on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Trick-or-Treat! It's almost time for the McClellan Orthodontics Candy Buyback Contest.

2010-10-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

Trick-or-Treat! It's almost time for the McClellan Orthodontics Candy Buyback Contest.

Beginning Nov. 1, will be collecting Halloween candy for our Candy Buyback Contest. Many treats can cause havoc for trick-or-treaters who are going through orthodontic treatment, and these treats may cause damage that could prolong your treatment time. Bring in your hard, sticky, and crunchy Halloween treats for a chance to win an iPod Touch in our raffle!

You're invited to participate in our Candy Buyback Contest:
Who: All of the children at our office
What: McClellan Orthodontics Candy Buyback Contest
Where: Bring your candy into McClellan Orthodontics at 450 Green Bay Road
Kenilworth, IL 60043
When: Nov. 1 through Nov. 4th
Why: To receive cash for your candy, enter to win an iPod Touch, support Misiercordia and the Lymphoma-Leukemia Society.

Don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about our Halloween Candy Buyback Contest. We look forward to seeing everyone with their candy!

What do you love about McClellan Orthodontics?

2010-10-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we strive to accommodate the needs of our patients and create a positive orthodontic experience. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Dr. McClellan's work? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review here on our Google Places Page. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

We look forward to hearing your story!

-Dr. McClellan and team

A braces-friendly recipe, in celebration of National Orthodontic Health Month!

2010-10-14T17:37:00.000-07:00

Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Dr. McClellan and our team know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the hard, sticky, crunchy, and chewy candy that is often passed around to trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find orthodontic-friendly options.

However, there is good news! Today, we would like to share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics, or AAO. This Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake is delicious, and provided that you remember to brush and floss after indulging, this treat will not cause damage to your beautiful smile.

Spooktacular Pumpkin Cake

Ingredients:

1 pkg. yellow or white cake mix
½ cup vegetable oil
4 eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin
¾ cup sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
Dash of nutmeg
¼ cup water (add 2 tbl. of water if eggs are small)

Directions:

Put cake mix in a large bowl. Make an indentation in the center and pour in the oil and one egg. Mix using mixer, then add the rest of the eggs one at a time, beating after each one.

Add pumpkin, sugar, spices, and then water.

Bake in greased and floured tube pan in 350 degree oven for 60-70 minutes (depending on oven calibration). Cool before removing from pan.

Dr. McClellan announces our Halloween Candy Buyback Contest!

2010-10-06T15:00:00.000-07:00

Dr. McClellan and our team at McClellan Orthodontics are excited to announce our Halloween Candy Buyback Contest. We would like to encourage all of the kids at our office to bring in their Halloween candy between Nov. 1 through Nov. 4th for a chance to win an iPod Touch in our raffle!

Dr. McClellan will pay $1.00 per pound of Halloween candy to each of the kids at our office that participates in the Halloween Candy Buyback Contest. The kids will receive raffle tickets for the iPod Touch based on how much candy that they bring in to the office, for example 1-3 pounds is 1 ticket raffle.

Then, he will donate all of the candy to Misiercordia. McClellan Orthodontics will also match the financial amount that we paid the kids for their candy and donate that to the Lymphoma-Leukemia Society.

If you have any questions about our Halloween Candy Buyback Contest, don't hesitate to give us a call. We look forward to seeing everyone with their candy!

Congratulations Quinn! He won a Kindle in our Back to School Contest.

2010-09-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

This fall, our team at McClellan Orthodontics held a Back to School Contest, encouraging our patients to donate school supplies to our local YMCA for a chance to win a Kindle. Each patient that donated an item to the YMCA received an entry in our raffle for the Kindle. Quinn was the lucky winner of our Back to School Contest. Congratulations on your new Kindle, Quinn!

As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about our Back to School Contest, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. McClellan.

Celebrities get braces, too!

2010-09-24T16:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Dr. McClellan.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give McClellan Orthodontics a call.

Mom and dad can also have a perfect smile, thanks to Invisalign® at McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-09-15T12:03:00.000-07:00

Hey parents! Focusing on your kids' teeth and oral health so much that you're neglecting your own? If you've been thinking wistfully about having your own set of perfect teeth, our staff at McClellan Orthodontics can help! We are specially trained to offer an adult-friendly option for straightening teeth called Invisalign.

This course of treatment consists of a set of clear aligners that are molded to fit your teeth using a proprietary technology. You wear them all day and night, except for meals, brushing, and flossing – when you can easily slip them out to make eating and cleaning a snap!

Because they're clear, your teeth will be steadily straightening – and no one will know it but you!

Please give us a call to set up a consultation, so we can discuss the specifics of your treatment.

What puts you at ease at McClellan Orthodontics?

2010-09-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

Dr. McClellan and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting their orthodontist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about McClellan Orthodontics that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Dr. McClellan?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Orthodontic fun facts, from McClellan Orthodontics

2010-09-01T16:58:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at McClellan Orthodontics thought you might enjoy.

• There are nearly 4 million people in orthodontic treatment throughout the United States. Three out of four are younger than 18.

• The first mechanical treatment for correcting irregular teeth was suggested by Gaius Plinius Secundus (A.D 23-79).The American Association of Orthodontists is comprised of more than 12,000 members in the United States, Canada and abroad.

• The time required to complete orthodontic treatment ranges from 12 to 36 months depending on the nature and severity of the problem.

• Of the 160,000 dentists in the United States and Canada, 8,000 are practicing orthodontists.

• The cement that attaches the braces to the teeth is now made with a special fluoride-releasing substance.

• Wires activated by body heat used in today's braces originally were developed by NASA for use in the space program.

• In addition to alleviating or preventing physical health problems, orthodontics can boost self-esteem as treatment aligns teeth, jaws and lips.

• Famous orthodontic patients include: Dr. Joyce Brothers, Hale Irwin, Cher, Diana Ross, Phyllis Diller, Chelsea Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg, Daisy Fuentes and Brandi.

McClellan Orthodontics, supporting Moms for Mouth Guards

2010-08-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

Hey, Moms! Have you signed the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge?

Here at McClellan Orthodontics, we care about your pearly whites, and we want to help keep you protected from sports injuries that can be damaging to your beautiful smile. As a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontics have introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Dr. McClellan will tell you that mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey and basketball, just to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their children’s smile from facial injuries.

We’ve discussed the importance of using facial protection in the past. Today, we thought we’d invite moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge.

Have a safe week everyone!

How are you spending your Kenilworth, IL summer?

2010-08-17T10:56:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here, and the team at McClellan Orthodontics thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? The free time you get? Spending quality time with friends and family? Grilling barbecue in the backyard?

Dr. McClellan and team would like to know what makes your summer truly special. Let us know by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Dr. McClellan invites you to join the Braces Brigade!

2010-08-10T13:38:00.000-07:00

Have you just begun orthodontic treatment with McClellan Orthodontics? Well, the American Association of Orthodontists is in search of past, present, and future orthodontic patients and their parents to join the Braces Brigade! Share your smile with the world, through joining this community of online journalists, and receive a $100 American Express gift card for your hard work!

What is the Brace Brigade?

The Braces Brigade is an opportunity for you to share your unique experiences with the world, through blogging! Blogging is a way for you to document your story, the foods that you had to avoid, any advice you might have for future orthodontic patients, or maybe the first place that you plan to show off your new smile! Really, what you choose to blog about it up to you!

For more information on the Braces Brigade and how to join visit this website. To apply, you must be 14 years or older and all submissions must be made by August 31, 2010. If you have any questions about orthodontic treatment, or the Braces Brigade, feel free to give McClellan Orthodontics a call today!

Have a great week,

-McClellan Orthodontics

Ask McClellan Orthodontics: What can Invisalign® do for my oral health?

2010-08-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

When considering treatment options, patients often ask us how Invisalign treatment is so different than traditional braces. Well, there are more reasons to smile about Invisalign with McClellan Orthodontics than you may know. Invisalign is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, and besides straightening your teeth, can improve your oral health. Here’s how:

Healthy gums: Straight teeth allow a close fit for gums. This lessens the gum stress that is caused by crowded or widely spaced teeth, thus also reducing red and swollen gums.

Easy cleaning: Invisalign is removable, therefore brushing and flossing is easier and you are able to maintain a healthy mouth. These habits are vital to avoiding tooth decay, plaque and even gum disease.

Improved speech and chewing: Properly-aligned teeth don’t have the discomfort or compound speech impediments that can be caused by crowded teeth or a deteriorating jawbone.

If you have any questions about Invisalign, just ask Dr. McClellan the next time you’re in for an appointment. Or, you may post your question on our Facebook page! You can also read this article for more information on Invisalign and your oral health.

All the cool kids are doing it! From McClellan Orthodontics

2010-07-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

Dr. Mart McClellan will tell you that braces today are not only cool, but also fun. In fact, these were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment recently. New technologies such as Invisalign and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities spotted sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study found that 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. McClellan, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited McClellan Orthodontics for a consultation? If not, please give us a call at 847-251-6228 and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Get those regular checkups! From McClellan Orthodontics

2010-07-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

If you're brushing twice a day - and flossing - during your treatment, that's excellent!

But, it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist dentist every six months in addition to brushing your teeth a couple times a day (and visiting Dr. McClellan regularly during your treatment). After all, our staff will tell you regular dental checkups are vital for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

• Check for problems that might not be seen or felt
• Detect cavities and signs of tooth decay
• Treat oral health problems early
• Show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth during your treatment

During an oral exam, your dentist will check the health of your mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups will also include a thorough teeth cleaning/polishing. If you have not been to the dentist in the past six months, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

If you don't have a general dentist in Kenilworth or nearby communities, please ask us, and we will be happy to provide a few names for you! We hope you're having an outstanding summer!!

Ask Dr. McClellan: What's the deal with Invisalign? [Video]

2010-07-03T21:23:00.000-07:00

If you've ever wondered how Invisalign treatment at McClellan Orthodontics manages to straighten teeth without using braces at all? The Invisalign system is a state-of-the-art system of clear, removable aligners that we proudly offer at our convenient office in Kenilworth. Dr. Mart McClellan is is a Certified Invisalign & Invisalign Teen provider. Consider Invisalign to get the beautiful straight teeth you've always wanted — without braces - whether you're an adult or teenager.

Please give our office a call to learn if Invisalign is right for you and have a FANTASTIC Fourth of July weekend!

2010-06-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

Lately, we've been posting videos of our patients getting their braces off on our Facebook page! Are you one of the lucky ones who will get theirs off soon?

Make sure we catch you getting your braces off on video!

Happy Friday and have a GREAT weekend!!

What are our patients saying about McClellan Orthodontics?

2010-06-18T15:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. Mart McClellan and our staff love getting patient testimonials. And lately, McClellan Orthodontics, serving Kenilworth and surrounding communities in Illinois, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Enjoy your weekend!

"Dr. McClellan is professional, and has a people-person personality. He has made me feel very comfortable about his procedures and the results I can expect from them." ~ William H.

"Great People in the Office." ~ David B.

"Dr. McClellan is a very nice and straightforward person - love the waiting room - it's very kid-friendly, as are the staff. It is always a good time when we go there - no complaints from anyone!" ~ Debbie F.

"Pleasant, friendly environment. Fast results easy to get appointment when something needs to be repaired. Also on time." ~ Marlene L.

"Very Friendly and caring, and answers all my questions." ~ Jaimee H.

Tell McClellan Orthodontics: what's on your summer reading list?

2010-06-09T14:30:00.000-07:00

Traveling this summer? Heading on a camping trip? Lying on a hammock resting in your backyard?

Summer is a great time for kids to enjoy friends and family activities, but it’s also is a great time for them to continue learning, maintain the skill level and prepare for the school year.

Here are some good books to add to your summer reading list! If you have any suggestions, please email our office manager, Patti at patti@mcclellanortho.com.

The Kitchen House by Kathleen Grissom
Stolen Lives by Malika Oufkir
The Wet Nurse's Tale by Erica Eisdorfer
Secret Daughter-A Novel by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
Falling Leaves by Adelinne Yen Mah
Blackbird by Jennifer Lauck
Snowflower & The Secret Fan by Lisa See
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna landvik
Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom

Some of these are oldies but goodies and will be easy to find in your local library.

Happy reading!

Dr. McClellan and team want to know: What should we blog about?

2010-06-03T10:11:00.000-07:00

As the summer of 2010 approaches, our team at McClellan Orthodontics strive to continue writing about important topics related to orthodontics and your treatment at our office.

To help us continue doing that through the course of the summer, however, we'd like your help: We thought we’d step back a bit today and ask you, our patients and readers: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing and exciting field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months? Perhaps there’s something you’ve wanted to ask Dr. McClellan for a while and just haven't had the chance? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

We hope you have a great rest of the week!

McClellan Orthodontics want to know: What are your plans for Memorial Day weekend?

2010-05-27T12:19:00.000-07:00

Make no mistake about it: Memorial Day weekend is a time to reflect and honor the men and women who have served to protect America and ensure our freedom. This weekend also marks the unofficial start of summer, and for kids and their parents in Kenilworth who've spent months upon months at work or in the classroom, that spells sweet, sweet relief.

Memorial Day weekend is a great time to pack the family and travel. After all, it’s a time for vacations, adventures and great memories with parents or friends. What about you? What are you up to this Memorial Day weekend? Whether you're headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, or hitting America's great open roads this weekend, Dr. McClellan and team would love to hear all about it!

We hope you have a relaxing and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend!

Patient appreciation party at McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-05-21T13:20:00.000-07:00

Have you heard about our Summer Kick-off Patient Appreciation Party? On Tuesday, June 15th at 4 p.m., we will host a party for all of our amazing patients at our office.

We have a Good Humor ice cream cart coming and nice hot pizza will be continuously delivered. We will also have sun catchers our patients can paint and take home, as well as sand art, a magician a balloon-maker and a wonderful husband/wife team bringing in animals for us to get friendly with! Anyone want a tarantula to walk on them? Maybe hold a baby alligator? How about a soft ferret or chinchilla? Those are just some of what is coming our way on June 15th!

We hope to see you all there! Have a great weekend!!

Write a review of McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-05-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we have a tradition of creating great smiles by providing unparalleled orthodontic health care. Dr. Mart McClellan and our team strive to accommodate the needs of our patients and create a positive orthodontic experience. McClellan Orthodontics is a different kind of orthodontic practice. Dr. McClellan and our team take time diagnosing and treating your case in order to make your treatment as efficient and rewarding as possible.

Whether you've visited Dr. McClellan for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how our office is faring! There are lots of ways you can share your thoughts about our practice with the rest of the world, but we encourage you to head to our Google Local page and write a review there.

After all, reviews help Dr. McClellan create more beautiful smiles in Kenilworth and surrounding communities here in Cook County! You may write a review here.

Thank you in advance and enjoy your week! We look forward to reading your reviews!

Hey moms! Happy Mother's Day from McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-05-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. McClellan and our entire team at McClellan Orthodontics would like to take this moment to recognize all the great moms who come to our office and wish them all a HAPPY UPCOMING MOTHER'S DAY! We thought this would be a good time to let you know we appreciate you all!

Thank you for all you do for your kids and for helping guide them through their orthodontic treatment! You all deserve more than just a day of recognition and praise! Enjoy your special day on Sunday!

Get social with McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-04-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our new high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or communicating ideas on our fan page.

For social media to work, however, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Dr. McClellan and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts here or on our Facebook page or give us a call at 847-251-6228!

Enjoy your weekend!

This Earth Day, did you make a difference? From McClellan Orthodontics

2010-04-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we support Earth Day, which marks its 40th anniversary today and is designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for our environment and ecosystem.

Whether lending a helping hand to plant trees or getting out to volunteer in various projects in Kenilworth, today is our opportunity to get involved in making our year-round impact in the community. Dr. McClellan wants to know: Are you making a difference today? Tell us, what are you up to? How long have you participated in helping our community and planet? For a list of events in our community, please visit the EPA's activities page.

If you’d like to join the millions of people who are making small yet important changes to help sustain our fragile ecosystem, try these helpful environmental tips, courtesy of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA.

Happy Earth Day!

McClellan Orthodontics, reminding you April is National Facial Protection Month

2010-04-16T14:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! Our staff at McClellan Orthodontics wanted to remind you about the value of wearing facial protection this month. After all, April, also known as National Facial Protection Month, is upon us, and that means it's time to provide some quick tips to help your mouth stay safe out on the field.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator!

We hope these tips help. Dr. Mart McClellan will tell you protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our staff and enjoy your weekend!

Ask Dr. McClellan: When should my child come in for a visit?

2010-04-09T14:53:00.000-07:00

Dr. Mart McClellan will tell you that many parents assume they must wait until their child has all permanent teeth to visit McClellan Orthodontics, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, you're thinking ... what’s so great about age seven? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Dr. McClellan to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at McClellan Orthodontics to schedule an appointment.

Dr. McClellan, reminding you about the importance of retainers

2010-03-29T16:37:00.000-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at McClellan Orthodontics, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Dr. Mart McClellan will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized.

Retainers provide that stabilization. They are designed to hold teeth in their corrected, ideal positions until the bones and gums adapt to the treatment changes. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed by Dr. McClellan is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* Take your retainers out when eating...and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
* Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

McClellan Orthodontics has a new web site!

2010-03-25T10:27:00.000-07:00

If you happened to be browsing through our web site recently you might have noticed our new design, which has a refined, modern look that exudes warmth ...and is also aesthetically appealing.

The web site has many great features that Dr. McClellan and our dedicated team know you will enjoy and are very user friendly, innovative components. If you want to make your payment online, it’s a snap - just click on "Patient Login" at the top of the page.

Our web site was personally designed by Dr. McClellan with you, our great patients, in mind. We have a welcoming office where patient care comes first. We hope that when you visit our web site you will feel proud to be associated with our unique practice, which embraces technology and unparalleled orthodontic health care.

While visiting our site, please click on the link to our Facebook Fan Page and become a fan of McClellan Orthodontics. This is where you can get all the latest up-to-date information about what’s happening at McClellan Orthodontics.

So... what do you think? Let us know by posting here or giving us a call!

The importance of mouth guards, from McClellan Orthodontics

2010-03-19T10:06:00.001-07:00

Wouldn’t you believe it, we're one day from spring! Dr. Mart McClellan knows, however, that spring months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of kids damaging their precious mouths and pearly whites. If you play sports, it's important that you consult Dr. McClellan for special precautions, such as wearing a mouth guard. A protective mouth guard is advised for playing spring sports such as baseball, lacrosse or soccer. Be sure, however, to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we are trying to achieve.

In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, please schedule an appointment with McClellan Orthodontics. And don’t forget to ask us—Dr. McClellan will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment.

Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at McClellan Orthodontics.

Ask Dr. McClellan: Am I too old for orthodontic treatment?

2010-03-12T13:28:00.000-08:00

Who’s afraid of the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Not any more, at least. Recently, our staff at McClellan Orthodontics read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent since 1996! After all, one of every four patients in our office is over 21 with age ranging up to 88 years young!

Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: people want to look and feel good. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Dr. Mart McClellan can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, Dr. McClellan would love to have you visit for a consultation. Give us a call to set one up!

At McClellan Orthodontics, a pursuit of excellence

2010-03-05T13:23:00.000-08:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we make every effort to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Dr. Mart McClellan do just that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire team on new techniques
4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We strive to make your experience at McClellan Orthodontics like no other orthodontic practice in the area. Dr. McClellan and team look forward to seeing you.

Top 10 tips for keeping your BRACES sparklin’ clean

2010-02-24T14:27:00.000-08:00

Dr. McClellan knows keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and shorter treatment time. Keep plaque at bay with these top ten tips, from our team at McClellan Orthodontics:

1. One tooth at a time. When you brush, take time with each individual tooth – at least 10 seconds each – and pay careful attention to the spots where your teeth touch your braces.

2. It’s all about the angles. Brush the tops of your teeth and braces with your brush angled down toward where they meet. Brush the bottoms of your teeth and braces with your brush angled up.

3. The tooth, the whole tooth, nothing but the tooth. While the front surface of your teeth may seem like the most logical to clean, it’s equally important to clean the inner surface of your teeth (tongue side) as well as the chewing surface. And be sure to clean along your gum line – a key spot for plaque buildup.

4. Step 1: eat, step 2: clean. While you’re in treatment, it’s important to brush after every meal. Bits of food can easily get caught between braces and teeth, and these food bits interact with bacteria in your mouth to cause decay. The longer food is in contact with your teeth, the greater opportunity for plaque to form. If you are eating somewhere that you can’t brush, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water.

5. Like a Boy Scout, always be prepared. The easiest way to be sure you can brush after every meal is to get in the habit of taking a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss with you wherever you go. Designate a special container just for your teeth-cleaning tools and keep it in your purse, backpack, or laptop case.

6. Remove the moving parts. If you have elastic bands or headgear, remove these parts before you brush or floss.

7. Fluoride is your friend. Fluoride helps prevent cavities. Be sure to brush with fluoride toothpaste, and rinse with fluoride mouthwash.

8. Pointy brushes reach tiny places. Interproximal brushes (sometimes called proxa brushes or interdental brushes) are cone-shaped and come in very handy for reaching spots around your braces that standard brushes can’t.

9. Find the floss for you. Regular floss works for some patients, but others find it easier to work with a floss threader, which helps you get the floss into tight places. Other patients like an all-in-one product called Superfloss, which comes with a stiff end for easy threading, a spongy section for cleaning wide spaces, and regular floss for narrow spaces.

10. Make time for the pros. It’s your job to take care of the everyday cleaning. But make sure to visit your dentist regularly while in treatment, to get the deep, thorough cleaning that only a professional can provide. If you need help finding the right Dentist for you, feel free to contact McClellan Orthodontics - we’d love to help!

Hope this helps!

Nice work, Jack!

2010-02-16T10:16:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture that Jack, one of our patients, drew on our chalk board in the video game room. At McClellan Orthodontics, we encourage our young patients to express themselves through art. If you've recently taken a cool photo or have a drawing you'd like to share with us, please give us a call and ask how!

With McClellan Orthodontics, 24/7 access to your account

2010-02-11T12:26:00.000-08:00

Access to your account, 24/7. Sounds convenient, doesn’t it?

Patients at McClellan Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—on our web site. You may look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, all from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages! Just see what some of our patients are saying about this innovative service:

"Much more advanced and less cumbersome." ~ Eric J.

"Fun to look at pictures and check financial info. Online appointment reminders help, too." ~ David B.

"Liked viewing the patient pictures/progress. Helpful appointment reminders." Jacqueline T.

"Service, service and service." ~ Martha O.

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please call us if you have any questions!

Mommy and son!

2010-02-03T12:04:00.000-08:00

At McClellan Orthodontics, we just finished bracing mommy and son! Mom has our new clear braces—you can't even see them! They are fantastic!!

If you have any questions about braces, or your treatment here at McClellan Orthodontics, please feel free to give us a call! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Super Bowl contest at McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-01-27T08:52:00.000-08:00

Are you excited for Super Bowl XLIV on February 7th? Because we sure are at McClellan Orthodontics! And that's why we are holding a Super Bowl patient contest from now until the Big Game. Here's how it works:

Guess who is going to win and what the final score will be, and you can win a gift basket worth $275! The basket contains an Ipod Touch, an I-tunes card, a regulation size football and assorted snacks sitting on a football tray.

If you have any questions about the contest (or your treatment with Dr. McClellan), please give us a call! Hurry up and make your picks! Dr. McClellan and our team are excited to hear from you!

P.S. who are you rooting for?

Invisalign Teen™ at McClellan Orthodontics!

2010-01-22T08:24:00.000-08:00

Image is everything. Dr. McClellan knows that.

At an age when image is so important, the thought of having metal brackets and wires constantly attached to teeth may intensify the already-delicate confidence of today's teens. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! The team at McClellan Orthodontics thought we'd remind you that Invisalign Teen™ gives you a whole new way to wear braces for a "clearly" amazing smile!

So how does Invisalign Teen work, you ask? Much in the same fashion as Invisalign, but with a few added characteristics tailored specifically to teenagers’ lifestyles. For instance, Invisalign Teen is designed with “compliance indicators” that fade from dark to light during the two week period that particular tray is used and once it has faded teens know to change trays. Each aligner comes with up to six free individual replacement aligners in case the original aligner ends up lost or broken. Another big benefit for the patient!

The treatment period for Invisalign Teen varies from nine to 18 months. If your teen is considering orthodontic treatment, please contact us and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Invisalign Teen.

McClellan Orthodontics want to know: What are you up to in January?

2010-01-13T10:56:00.000-08:00

BRRRR! It may still be chilly outside, but can you believe we’re only a couple of months away from spring? Dr. McClellan and the team at McClellan Orthodontics want to know: What are you doing in January?

Any big mid-winter break plans? Anything exciting going on in your life? We'd love if you shared with us your January happenings!

If you have any photos or videos that you would like to share with us, please send them our way or call our office and ask how! Have a great rest of the week, from the team at McClellan Orthodontics!

Invisalign® Tips, from McClellan Orthodontics

2010-01-06T14:31:00.001-08:00

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with, says Dr. McClellan It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Dr. McClellan wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1.) Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2.) Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3.) Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at McClellan Orthodontics, give us a call!

When should you call McClellan Orthodontics?

2009-12-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call McClellan Orthodontics. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with Dr. McClellan and team:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call! Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays from McClellan Orthodontics!

2009-12-23T15:32:00.000-08:00

In this season given to tidings of comfort and joy, and as Dr. McClellan and his team at McClellan Orthodontics reflects on the year that was, we’d like to ask you, our wonderful patients: What do you love about the holidays this year? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for 2010? Opening presents by the fireplace? All the delicious food? Also, what gift are you most looking forward to getting this year?

We’d love if you shared with us all the things you love about the holidays. Stay warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The McClellan Orthodontics team

Be a Part of Dr. McClellan's Clean Teeth Contest!

2009-12-17T09:05:00.000-08:00

Have you heard about the Clean Teeth Contest at McClellan Orthodontics? This is a special contest for our patients who are teens as well as our younger patients who wear braces. We know that clean teeth allow the braces to work better and are more comfortable.

Each time you come in to the office, Dr. McClellan and his team will check your teeth to see if they are perfectly clean with no broken or bent braces. If you get a good score, you will receive a special slip that allows you to put your name in the jar for a monthly prize drawing of a $25 gift certificate. In addition, your smile will be featured in our office as the "Clean Teeth Smile of the Month!"

Happy Thursday!

Patient reviews for Dr. McClellan

2009-12-09T07:39:00.000-08:00

Last week we asked you, our wonderful patients, what you liked best about Dr. McClellan or McClellan Orthodontics. We got back some pretty great reviews and thought we'd share a few!

"Definitely his professionalism, combined with his people-person personality. He has made me feel very comfortable about his procedures and the results I can expect from them." ~ William H.

"He is a good professional and person. In fact, all the team that work with him is the same way." ~ Martha O.

"I think he is the best in the area. I have complete faith that he is doing in a minimum amount of time what needs to be done for a lifetime." ~ Charles R.

"Dr McClellan is friendly, professional and informative. I like the fact that he has a calm demeanor." ~ Eric J.

"He's a very nice and straightforward person - love the waiting room - it's very kid-friendly as are the staff...always a good time when we go there - no complaints from anyone!" ~ Debbie F.