Are There Teeth Grinders in Your House? - Vernon Hills, IL Orthodontist

Grind, grind, grind, grind. If you live with a teeth grinder, especially a night grinder, you may be familiar with this unpleasant sound. Other symptoms of teeth grinding (technically called “bruxism”) include:

• Sensitivity in the teeth
• Tightness or pain in the jaw
• Dull headaches, earaches, or facial pain
• Chipped, worn down, or loose teeth

People frequently grind their teeth in response to stress, so taking measures to reduce or eliminate stress can help solve the problem. Here are some things you can try to stop grinding:

• Cut back on caffeine and alcohol
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration
• Relax right before bedtime with a warm bath or shower
• Help your jaw learn to relax by quitting any chewing habits (pens, pencils, gum)
• When clenching or grinding happens during the day, place your tongue between your teeth to serve as a reminder to avoid the habit

If grinding goes untreated, it can lead to chipped teeth, worn enamel, chronic pain, or even TMJ, a painful jaw disorder. If the teeth-grinder in your house can’t stop, make an appointment to see us by calling 847-984-0838. Drs. Lee and Katie Graber can help determine the cause of the problem and possibly even prescribe a custom mouthpiece to help break the habit.

Don't Forget to Visit Your Dentist! - Dr. Graber, Vernon Hills Orthodontist

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day? If yes, that’s great; but, don’t forget that it’s also important to visit the dentist every six months in addition to your regular orthodontic visits. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can:

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

During an oral exam the doctor will 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, it’s time for you to schedule an appointment!

Now That I Have Braces, What Can I Eat? - Graber Orthodontics

You just got braces and the orthodontist has informed you that over the next several months you will want to avoid eating anything sticky, hard, crunchy, or chewy. What does this leave for you to eat? Lettuce? Nothing?

Luckily, there was someone else wondering the same thing when she first got braces! Brenda Waterman, 13, decided she was going to find a way to have her cake and eat it too, so she created a variety of “braces-friendly” recipes that allow you to enjoy your favorite treats without interfering with your orthodontic care! Her cookbook, “The Braces Cookbook: Recipes you (and your Orthodontist) will Love,” gives patients a variety of delicious recipes, safe to eat with braces; plus additional tips and advice for packing lunches, what to eat at parties, and braces-friendly restaurant dishes! There’s even a section with tips for dealing with the soreness that can occur when your braces or appliance are adjusted. Enjoy the foods you love – even with braces!
Here is a delicious, sneak peek recipe from “The Braces Cookbook:”

Wonderful Waffles

Forget the recipe that came with your waffle iron – this recipe will redefine fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The secret to delicious waffles is letting the batter "sit" for five minutes before pouring into the waffle iron. Top cooked waffles with syrup, jam, fresh fruit or even whip cream. Makes about 5 servings!

Preheat your waffle iron according to the directions. You may want to lightly spray it with vegetable oil before heating.
• 3 cups flour
• 2 Tbl + 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 Tbl sugar
• 4 cups milk
• 4 eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
In a large bowl, whisk (or use electric mixer on low) together all ingredients. Let batter sit for about five minutes to activate the baking powder.

When waffle iron is ready, pour about 1/3 cup of batter onto each of the four squares (experiment with your iron – you don't want the batter overflowing). Gently close the cover and set your timer as the manufacturer suggests. Do not lift the cover while they bake. When done, carefully lift one edge with a flat spatula and pull the waffle away from the iron. Keep waffles warm on a plate under a clean dishtowel while the others bake.

When Is Thumb-Sucking a Cause for Worry?

Lots of you have asked us about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75% and 95% of infants suck their thumbs. Is this anything to worry about?

In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of 2 and 4.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he’s gotten his permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it could cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, give us a call at 847-984-0838 and we can help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

Toothbrush Trivia!

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

It's Official!

Our new SureSmile scanner has a name! In October Graber Orthodontics purchased a new SureSmile scanner, but there was only one problem – the scanner didn’t have a name!

We just couldn’t come up with a suitable name so we started a contest in our office and invited our patients to submit their ideas for the best name to give our new scanner.

At the end of the month we reviewed all of the names, picked a winner, and we are now proud to introduce our new SureSmile scanner: Scan Man! We had several top entries, including Jaws, The Amazing Wizard Wand, The Mouth Mouse, and Bendissimo; but, after much discussion, Scan Man seemed to fit best! Congratulations to our winner and 1st runner up who will win an iPod, and thank you to all of our patients who submitted a ton of great names!

To schedule an appointment and meet our new SureSmile scanner in person, please contact us!

When Are Two Phases of Treatment Necessary?

Usually patients in orthodontic treatment already have their permanent teeth – they are pre-teens, teens and adults. But in some cases we have to start treatment earlier, even before the patient’s permanent teeth come in. We call this “two-phase treatment.”

When we have patients with clear developmental problems at an early age, it’s best to start work when they are young, before the problems get bigger and more difficult to treat.

Examples include:
• An upper or lower jaw that is not growing correctly
• A mouth growing in a way that doesn’t leave enough room for all the permanent teeth to come in
• A severe malocclusion, or bad bite, which means the jaw doesn’t fit together correctly

In these cases we will start early and do one round of treatment – phase one – while the patient still has their baby teeth. Phase one usually does not involve braces, but can include a different type of appliance that helps the jaw grow into place properly. We’ll follow up with phase two usually a few years later, when permanent teeth are in place. Generally phase two involves standard braces.

In order to catch early problems, we recommend that children have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven (and so does the American Association of Orthodontics). However, if your dentist or pediatrician sees any sign that early treatment might be necessary, he or she may recommend your child visit our office even sooner.

Why Is it So Important to Have Straight Teeth?

Some people wonder why we work so hard 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 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, give us a call at 847-984-0838 to set up a consultation. Dr. Graber can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

Feeling a Little Sensitive?

Have you ever take a bite of something cold, salty, sweet or tart and experience a sharp pain in the teeth that bit down on the food? This can be a result of tooth sensitivity! Tooth sensitivity can be a cause of several different things, but the most common cause of sensitive teeth is large, or exposed, nerve fibers. There are many ways for nerve fibers in your teeth to be exposed. Exposed nerve fibers can be a result of a receding gum line and has started to reveal the surface of the tooth. Once the surface of the tooth is visible it’s no longer protected by the enamel (a hard, protective outer layer) which means the nerves become more susceptible to sensitivity caused by hot or cold foods.

Young people can also experience tooth sensitivity due to larger nerve fibers. The mouth produces bacteria that are both good and bad. Some bacteria help protect your mouth and body against illness; however, when food, for instance, is left on the teeth for long periods of time “bad” bacteria can build up on the tooth’s surface and cause cavities. Cavities are holes on the tooth’s surface that can often expose nerve fibers and increase tooth sensitivity. Another reason why brushing your teeth after each meal is so important!

Here are a few other causes of toot sensitivity:

Gastric Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): GERD is an illness where frequent vomiting can cause tooth sensitivity. Our stomachs have a higher acidity level than our mouths. When stomach acids are present in the mouth, the outer enamel on the tooth’s surface can deteriorate. Frequent exposure to stomach acid can result in erosion of the tooth’s enamel which exposes nerve fibers and causes tooth sensitivity.

Tooth Whitening: Whitening agents penetrate into the surface of the tooth so that over time the surface of the tooth will appear whiter. The bleaching agents used in tooth whitening delve into the porosities that normally exist in the teeth. These agents can also penetrate into the layers of the teeth containing nerve fibers, which can increase sensitivity. Laser whitening and Zoom! bleaching may also have the same effects.

Crooked Teeth: Teeth that are out of position can cause sensitivity due to pressure from chewing. Orthodontic treatment can help reposition teeth and improve tooth sensitivity.

Gingival Inflammation: Tooth discomfort can be “referred” to the adjacent tooth. Clearing the gingivitis and employing proper flossing and brushing techniques will help lessen tooth sensitivity.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, here are some helpful strategies to help you make your teeth stronger:

1. Next time you visit the dentist or orthodontist be sure to ask about any specialized periodontal procedures available that can provide root coverage. If you have cavities ask your dentist about fillings to block food and bacteria from getting inside the tooth.
2. Fluoride can help strengthen the outer layer of your teeth. Several over-the-counter rinses are available or your doctor can prescribe a fluoride rinse if necessary. Do you drink bottled water? Make the switch to tap water, which has plenty of fluoride.
3. Special toothpastes with fluoride are another over-the-counter option. Sensodyne is a recommended brand that will help with tooth sensitivity.
4. Remember – if you have sensitive teeth, avoid tooth whitening (unless recommended by your doctor)! Teeth whitening can make sensitive teeth even more sensitive.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment please contact our office!

Tune In to National Orthodontic Health Month

Dr. Lee Graber has recently been interviewed by several local radio stations representing the American Association of Orthodontics and discussing National Orthodontic Health Month. National Orthodontic Health Month goes throughout the month of October and celebrates awareness of oral health and hygiene. Patients, and prospective patients, interested in learning more about orthodontics and bright smiles can stay tuned to Lisa Kotsy on US 99.5 in the next couple weeks to hear Dr. Graber’s next interview.

Eating with Braces: Foods to Avoid

Eating with Braces

What can you eat? Let's talk about what you shouldn't eat! If you've been wanting to drop a few pounds, the first week wearing braces is just your chance! For the first day or so, stick to soft foods. Avoid tough meats, hard breads, and raw vegetables. 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 to Avoid

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

Office Policies

Your First Visit

At the first visit to the orthodontist, diagnostic records are made to determine the best course of treatment. Complete diagnostic records typically include a medical/dental history, clinical examination, plaster study models of the teeth, photos of the patient's face and teeth, and X-rays. This information is used to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. These records are also helpful in tracking the progress of treatment as the teeth move under orthodontic care.

Consultation

After the doctor has evaluated your records, we discuss your treatment with you in detail, including the cost for your particular case.

Regular Appointments

The appointment when you get your appliances (braces, expanders, etc.) usually takes from one to two hours. You'll then see us at regular intervals 4 to 8 weeks apart for an adjustment, which takes 20 to 40 minutes. Our regular office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 6 PM. Patients are seen by appointment only. We make every effort to be on time for our patients and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you cannot keep an appointment, please notify us immediately. Cancel only if it is an emergency. It is difficult to reschedule you since most appointments are made 4 to 8 weeks in advance.

Payment & Office Policies

Cost

The cost of treatment depends on the severity of the patient's problem. You will be able to discuss fees and payment options before treatment begins. We have payment plans to suit different budgets, including a no-down-payment option. We also accept assignment from most insurance plans and we will file the necessary papers to the insurance company. We work hard to make orthodontics affordable.

Fees

In an effort to keep orthodontic fees down while maintaining the highest level of professional care, we have established this financial policy:

• If full payment is made at the onset of treatment, we will offer a fee discount. (If you have insurance, we will offer a discount for payment of your portion of the fee that will not be covered by insurance.)
• To fit your individual needs, financial arrangements can be made to extend your payments over a period of months.
• For your convenience, we accept payment by VISA and MASTERCARD.
• In cases of serious delinquency, treatment will be discontinued, although we will make every effort to accommodate patients with temporary difficulties.

Insurance

If you have insurance, we will help you to determine the coverage you have available. We ask that you assign your insurance benefit to us. The balance will be arranged for you to pay (see above). Professional care is provided to you, our patient, and not to an insurance company. Thus, the insurance company is responsible to the patient and the patient is responsible to the doctor. We will help in every way we can in filing your claim and handling insurance questions from our office on your behalf.

Sports and Orthodontics

If you play sports, it's important that you consult us for special precautions. A protective mouthguard is advised for playing contact sports. In case of any accident involving the face, check your mouth and the appliances immediately. If teeth are loosened or the appliances damaged, phone at once for an appointment. In the meantime, treat your discomfort as you would treat any general soreness.

Rate Your Smile

An American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey reveals that 92% of respondents say an attractive smile is an important social asset, while 74% believe an unattractive smile can hurt a person's chances for career success. Whether your smile needs minor improvements or more extensive improvements, your dentist can help.

Please print out and complete the following survey to rate your smile. Bring this with you to your first appointment.

1. Rate your smile on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being perfect:
   1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
   HELP! ------------ PERFECT!

2. If you feel your smile is less than perfect, how does this affect you?

   • __ I rarely smile.
   • __ I smile less than I would like.
   • __ I smile a lot even though my smile is less than perfect.
   • __ My imperfect smile hurts my self confidence.
   • __ My imperfect smile does not bother me.
   • __ Other, please explain: __________________________________________________

3. Are you ever worried what other people think about your smile?

   • __ Yes, I always worry about what others think about my smile.
   • __ Yes, I sometimes worry about what others think about my smile.
   • __ Yes, but I rarely worry about what others think about my smile even though my smile could use improvement.
   • __ No, I don't worry about it.

4. How do you think that having a perfect smile would improve your life? (check all that apply)

   • __ I would smile more often.
   • __ I would feel better about myself.
   • __ I would have more confidence with friends, family, and on the job.
   • __ My oral health would improve and be easier to maintain.
   • __ Other, please explain: __________________________________________________

5. What would you like to improve about your smile? (check all that apply)

   • __ I would like whiter, brighter teeth.
   • __ I would like to get rid of gaps between teeth.
   • __ I would like to repair chipped or broken teeth.
   • __ I would like to replace missing teeth.
   • __ I would like to straighten my teeth.
   • __ I would like to improve my oral health routine.

6. Do you ever have any tooth pain or discomfort?

   If yes, please explain? __________________________________________________

SureSmile

Graber Orthodontics has always provided the best of care by way of personal service, advanced dental and medical concepts and technology to our patients. Since 1946, our practice has been proud to be on the cutting edge of orthodontic technological advances. We were one of the first practices to incorporate computers, digital photographic and radiographic records as well as low-force higher comfort braces systems. In our orthodontic specialty office we combine the available technologies with individualized treatment approaches to provide customized care for each patient.

The latest bio-technological advances in orthodontics integrate 3 dimensional computer advances with abilities to translate these into improved patient care…similar to the most recent changes in medicine. We are thus pleased to add “SureSmile” to the other services we provide for optimal patient treatment. Using virtual imaging and tooth movement simulations, Drs. Graber provide customized orthodontic braces using computerized robotic assistance to enhance precision and comfort.

How can SureSmile benefit me, my child or my friends? In over 7000 SureSmile patients studied to-date, treatment time has been reduced on average in excess of 30%. By building more precision in to your braces patients have fewer trips to the office, less lifestyle disruption and increased convenience to patient care. Bottom line, you get to show off your perfect smile faster with more comfort! Go to www.SureSmile.com for more information.

Am I a candidate for SureSmile treatment? We will be evaluating all current and new patients and offer the opportunity to use this treatment adjunct where it is most appropriate. For those who qualify and elect the procedure, added costs for care will usually approximate 2-3 monthly payments. Please let us know if you are interested by way of e-mail to info@GraberOrthodontics.com.

We continually strive to give you the best of orthodontic health care and are happy to be able to integrate these further advances in to quality orthodontic treatment options for you, your family and friends.

Baby Teeth – and Gums! – Need Special Care

One question we hear all the time is “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?” In fact, you should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast- or bottle-feeding, use a clean, damp washcloth to rub your baby’s gum tissue – gently. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in, you can switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, give us a call at 847-984-0838.

Getting Married? Smile Bright!

It’s September and you know what that means – it’s one of the most popular month of the year for weddings! If you are gearing up for a wedding this summer, consider matching that white dress to a perfectly white smile!

At Graber Orthodontics we offer in-office tooth whitening for the bride, the groom, or the entire wedding party! You get the girls together to get their nails done, and now you can get them together to get their teeth done!

In-office whitening is the quickest, most effective way to achieve whiter teeth. Because we are dental professionals, we have the expertise to use higher percentages of whitening agents than the at-home systems allow. So you can get a brighter white, usually in just one visit!

Give us a ring at 847-984-0838 and let us add some extra sparkle to your “I do”!

What is an orthodontist?

All orthodontists are dentists, but only about 6% of dentists are orthodontists. An orthodontist is a specialist in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities. Orthodontists must first attend college, and then complete a four-year dental graduate program at a university dental school or other institution accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (ADA). They must then successfully complete an additional 2- to 3-year residency program of advanced education in orthodontics. This residency program must also be accredited by the ADA. Through this training, the orthodontist learns the skills required to manage tooth movement (orthodontics) and guide facial development (dentofacial orthopedics).

Only dentists who have successfully completed this advanced specialty education may call themselves orthodontists. In the State of Illinois an added requirement is passage of an Illinois state orthodontic specialty examination.

Adults, Kids, and Orthodontics

Adults

Orthodontic treatment can be successful at any age, and adults especially appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile. One of every four patients in our office is over 21 with age ranging up to 88 years young! Special considerations for adult treatment are sometimes necessary. With our experience in treating adults, we are able to match specific treatment needs with the latest in technology in orthodontics and the related dental specialties. Orthodontics is often an initial step prior to having restorations placed or replaced so that your final dental result is as healthy, long lasting and aesthetic as possible.

Kids

At Graber Orthodontics, we can do our best for your children if we see them by age seven as we are able to evaluate their growth and development at an age where they are exchanging their baby teeth for the permanent teeth. Only a small percentage of children need treatment at this young age, but early evaluation and monitoring can prevent developing problems. Sometimes treatment is begun early when growth guidance is necessary. Early treatment can also regulate the width of the upper and lower dental arches, gain space for permanent teeth, and thus minimize the need for later permanent tooth extractions. Early intervention can also reduce the likelihood of impacted permanent teeth, and help to correct harmful habits including thumb-sucking. In other words, in some cases early treatment can simplify or eliminate the need for later treatment.

Retainer Instructions

• Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise.
• 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 toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.
• When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
• Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.
• Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us immediately.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.
• Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
• Retainer replacement is expensive; with proper care they will last for years!
• Remove retainers when swimming.
• Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.

Why SureSmile® will have you smiling even before your braces come off!

You're getting braces. And while you're excited about having that great smile, you may be nervous about wearing the wires and brackets. Well, there is a new orthodontic system that makes straightening your teeth with braces a lot faster and easier compared to conventional orthodontic treatment. It's called SureSmile and it's changing the way people feel about their braces.

Through the use of SureSmile technology, your orthodontist can offer you a "braces experience" that provides:

• Shorter treatment times
• Fewer office visits
• Less overall discomfort

Our technology-driven orthodontic process offers several important benefits that make the whole "braces experience" much easier for patients than conventional orthodontics!

Shorter Treatment Times

You've probably heard from friends or family members that wearing braces is a long-term commitment, taking two years on average. While that may be true of traditional orthodontic treatments, it's not true for SureSmile. Through the use of SureSmile's sophisticated 3-D imaging, treatment planning, and customized precision archwires, your orthodontist can reduce treatment time compared to that of conventional braces.

Fewer Office Visits

In addition to shortening treatment times, the greater efficiency of the SureSmile system also helps reduce the number of wire changes and adjustments you'll need, and that means fewer trips to the orthodontist. The SureSmile system's 3-D software lets your orthodontist analyze how to effectively and efficiently align your teeth. Through this software, personalized archwires are designed to move your teeth into proper alignment smoothly and directly, reducing the number of maintenance visits.

Less Overall Discomfort

Anyone who has worn braces will probably tell you that wire adjustments and changes were the least favorite part of the process because they usually caused discomfort. Fortunately, the SureSmile system is engineered to maximize therapeutic efficiency of each wire, significantly reducing the number of adjustments needed. This means fewer episodes of discomfort over the course of

The Damon™ System - Dr. Graber - Vernon Hills, IL

New High Technology Braces

The Damon System (clear or metal) uses very light forces to provide, for some patients, remarkable advantages over traditional orthodontic approaches - more physiologically gentle tooth movement, greater patient comfort and sometimes faster treatment times.

Clear Damon Brackets

Damon brackets do not require plastic or metal ties and, therefore, operate with less friction. Less friction means lower forces and faster tooth movement. In addition, the plastic ties utilized with traditional braces tend to trap plaque and bacteria, which can lead to increased gingival inflammation or enamel decalcification.

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber will let you know if this high-technology system is appropriate for you or your child's teeth.

Learn more about the Damon System on their web site at www.damonbraces.com

Meet Drs. Lee and Katie Graber

		Lee W. Graber Licensed Specialist in Orthodontics Board Certified, American Board of Orthodontics D.D.S. University of Michigan M.S. University of Michigan M.S. Northwestern University Ph.D. University of Michigan
		Katie Graber Licensed Specialist in Orthodontics Board Certified, American Board of Orthodontics D.D.S. University of Michigan M.S. University of Illinois

Meet the Vernon Hills Staff

Vernon Hills Staff

Sandy M. Office Manager Over 40 years experience	Cheryl F. Clinic Coordinator Certified Dental Assistant, American National Board Certified, American Academy of Orthodontic Assisting Over 40 years experience
Cheryl R. SureSmile™ and Invisalign™ Coordinator Certified, American Academy of Orthodontic Assisting Over 25 years experience	Katie M. Certified, American Academy of Orthodontic Assisting
Ruby B. Receptionist	Connie M. Orthodontic Observation (Recall) Coordinator Certified, American Academy of Orthodontic A

What Makes Us Unique

We do our best to set our practice apart from the rest. We recognize that every patient has different needs, and we pride ourselves in the considerate service we deliver to each person who walks through our doors.

Professional

• Drs. Lee and Katie Graber are both ABO certified.
  Drs. Graber are certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), the only orthodontist specialty certifying board recognized by the American Dental Association. This certification is in addition to their licensure as Dental Specialists in Orthodontics by the State of Illinois.
• We stay abreast of the latest technologies and procedures.
  Our staff is comprised of a team of highly qualified health care professionals, who frequently attend continuing education courses to keep up with the latest technologies and procedures in orthodontics. Our support staff is dedicated to our patients—and some of them have been with us for over 20 years!
• We present all options available to the patient.
  We offer many options in orthodontic care, including clear ceramic braces, miniature high-technology metal and cosmetic braces, and Invisalign®. After evaluation, the doctor will present you with all of your possible treatment options, so you may make the best informed choice. We work to match treatment goals with the best therapeutic options.
• We inform you of your progress at your appointments.
  We will keep you up-to-date on you or your child’s progress in your treatment plan. We feel you should be informed and spend time on questions you have.
• We take special care of our adult patients.
  Many of our patients are adults, and we understand the needs and concerns our adult patients have in regards to orthodontic care. We take these into consideration and strive to make adult treatment as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Modern

• We utilize the latest technology in appliances.
  Over the years, technology has changed orthodontics for the better! The orthodontic industry has created newer, smaller, more comfortable appliances that can even reduce treatment time. We are proud to offer the "best in braces," technologically advanced appliances matched to your needs and goals. These include traditional ceramic braces, miniature metal braces, new lower friction appliances as well as Invisalign®.
• All of your diagnostic study records are done in our office.
  We have the ability to do all of your records in-house, which saves the patient from having to make additional appointments to outside laboratories.
• Digital imaging enhances your experience.
  Digital imaging helps you better understand your treatment options and helps the doctor plan the best possible treatment available to you. With X-rays captured digitally, it results in up to 70% less radiation compared to traditional X-rays.
• We are certified in Invisalign® technology and are a Premier Invisalign® practice.
  All doctors in our practice are certified to use Invisalign®! Our premier Invisalign status reflects the number of our patients treated with Invisalign. These active removable appliances straighten teeth without the use of wires or brackets by using a series of clear, customized aligners. Check with us to see if this almost “invisible treatment” is right for you!
• We use the latest sterilization processes.
  Your safety is of the utmost importance to us; therefore, we always sterilize our instruments between every patient and use single-use/disposable items whenever possible.

Fun

• We value and reward clean teeth for our young patients!
  Each month we reward patients for excellence in oral hygiene. Prizes range from blockbuster gift cards, free ice cream, DVD's, MP3 players and more. In addition, if you wear your Graber Orthodontics t-shirt to school or work and then to our office (the one you get when you have your braces placed) you will receive an additional prize!
• We have an interactive learning and gaming center!
  We are remodeling our office to include a computer learning center. We have arcade games with new games to include Sega, Nintendo and PlayStation 2. If you arrive early for your appointment or come with your sibling or friend, there will be fun for you!
• We offer an Internet hook-up and fresh coffee for parents!
  We have an wi-fi for parents and patients to utilize during longer appointments. In addition, for our adult patients and parents we often have fresh Starbucks® coffee on hand for those early morning visits.