What puts you or your child at ease at Graber Orthodontics?

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber understand people aren't always thrilled to see their orthodontist. But at Graber Orthodontics, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit at our Vernon Hills office. We’d like to know: What is it about Graber Orthodontics that puts you at ease or makes you comfortable? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly and experienced staff? Drs. Lee or Katie?

Let us know because we just love getting patient reviews!

Have a safe and happy New Year, to all our patients, friends, family and all our dental and medical colleagues – see you all in 2011!

Season's greetings from Graber Orthodontics!

The holidays are here, and as Drs. Graber and our team at Graber Orthodontics reflect back on 2010 and look forward to 2011, we’d like to ask you: What do you love about the holidays? Being with your loved ones? A clean slate for the new year? 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 safe and warm, and don’t forget to stay away from those sweets!

--The Graber Orthodontics team

Ask Graber Orthodontics: Do cold germs live on toothbrushes?

Great question! Fall is here, and with it comes the dreaded cold and flu season. After recovering from your cold, Drs. Lee and Katie Graber will tell you one of the most important steps you can take to avoid becoming reinfected is replacing your toothbrush!

Germs can linger on the bristles, and you risk prolonging your sickness by continuing to use the same toothbrush. Be smart - keep a spare, just in case! To protect your toothbrush from bacteria all year long, consider the following tips:

• 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 your toothbrush every 3-4 months. Worn bristles are less effective in properly cleaning your teeth, and can actually be damaging to teeth if used too long!

Hope these tips help! Feel free to call us at Graber Orthodontics if you have any questions or ask Drs. Graber and team on Facebook.

Holiday special at Graber Orthodontics!

This time of year, people everywhere experience difficulties picking out presents for loved ones. We think a trip to the orthodontist makes for a great (and memorable) holiday present, and to honor this we are running a holiday special for those who start before December 31, 2010.

Why have folks chosen to perfect their teeth at Graber Orthodontics since 1946? It's cutting-edge technologies for designing patient specific treatment coupled with advanced treatment options that is a winning combination for patients. Equally important, we provide you with informative, unhurried and gentle care... every step of the way.

With Dr. Lee Graber being the President of the American Association of Orthodontists, there’s no doubt our team is constantly collecting continuing education credits, participating in online webinars, and reading the latest information. We value education here and Drs. Lee and Katie generously provide our team with th...e means to obtain it, as well as participate with us side-by-side.

Call our office today and ask for Mallory for more information about our current special!

Happy Thanksgiving from Graber Orthodontics

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season right around the corner, Drs. Lee and Katie Graber and our entire staff at Graber 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.

New contest at Graber Orthodontics!

We are excited to announce our new Facebook contest! Starting this week, you can win a digital camera, iPod Shuffle or a gift card to Westfield Shopping Center by playing our website scavenger hunt!

Here's how it works: Each Tuesday, beginning today, we'll ask you to answer a particular question on our Facebook page (there will be a total of five questions; one each Tuesday for 5 weeks). For the answer, you'll head to our website. Once you've got the answer, you'll email the answers to Mallory@graberorthodontics.com, and you'll be automatically entered for a chance to win! You will have until 11:59 p.m. each Tuesday to submit your answers. You MUST answer all 5 questions to be eligible to win.

Head to our Facebook page to see the first question! GOOD LUCK!

Year-end flex dollars reminder from Graber Orthodontics

As 2010 comes ever nearer to drawing to a close, we would like to remind you that now is the perfect time of year to use any remaining healthcare flexible spending account dollars (or “flex dollars”) before they “disappear” after December 31, 2010. The use of “flex dollars” and health saving accounts allows you to pay for orthodontics (Invisalign or braces) with tax-free dollars.

A beautiful healthy smile is good in all seasons, but the “tax breaks” at this time of year make it even more affordable for those with these flex plans. Additionally, as an Invisalign Premier Provider here in Vernon Hills we are able to obtain reduced costs for new removable clear aligner patients who start prior to December 15th.

For those who are current patients with us, and would like to put your remaining flex dollars to work, call us and we will be glad to process your payment and/or work to help another family member get started. Please call now (847-367-4920) to ensure that any new treatment that is started can be done prior to the deadline date.

Why Graber Orthodontics?

If you're looking to get your child started on a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles or if you'd like to improve your own smile, look to the orthodontic practice that's been setting the standard for exceptional care for generations: Graber Orthodontics.

We are located in Vernon Hills, IL, home to Hawthorn Shopping Center and major employer CDW and are on the northeast corner of IL Rt. 60 and Butterfield Road. Vernon Hills is unique in that no one seems to know who "Vernon" is, and there aren't many "hills" to speak of. Graber is unique in that we have been creating healthy, beautiful smiles since 1946! Call us today to get started on your own beautiful smile! We also serve Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest and Mundelein!

And for our current patients: Don’t forget, we are having a Facebook-ONLY contest where you post pictures of your Halloween costume and get your friends to “like” you. The person with the most “likes” gets a four-pack of movie tickets! Also, wear your costume (we’ll be wearing ours) on your visit and automatically get entered into next month's contest!!

We hope that everyone has a safe and scary Halloween!

At Graber Orthodontics, access to your account any day, any time

Access to your account, 24/7. It just sounds so simple and convenient, doesn’t it?

Our patients at Graber Orthodontics enjoy access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our high-tech and patient-friendly website! You can 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!

You, too, may sign up for this convenient service on our website by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call at 847-367-4920 if you have any questions about getting started! Or, you may ask us on Facebook!

Frightful finger cookies, a delicious (and braces-friendly) Halloween recipe!

Our team at Graber Orthodontics know how tempting this time of the year can be for your sweet tooth. With all of the caramel, candy corn, and lollipops that are often passed around to Halloween trick-or-treaters, we know that it can sometimes be hard to find hard candy alternatives.

We thought we'd share a great braces-friendly Halloween recipe with all of our patients, courtesy of the American Association of Orthodontics. Enjoy these Frightful Finger Cookies!!

Makes: Approx 24 cookies

1 cup butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon almond extract

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 3/4 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup almond slices, or whole almonds

1 tube red decorating gel

1 tube green food coloring (optional)


Here are the baking instructions.

Enjoy!

- Dr. Graber and team

More office contests at Graber Orthodontics!

In addition to our Facebook Halloween contest, we have another in-office contest at Graber Orthodontics that starts today and runs through September 21st! The contest is called "Whose Empty Head?" and you have to guess which staff members' skeletal head belongs to whom. The winner gets a "brace-face pumpkin"!

Also, since this is "Halloween Month" the theme of the week of October 25-28 is Costumes. If you show up to your appointment dressed to "theme," you will automatically receive three votes for our November contest, "Homecoming Court King/Queen."

Ask us for more info!

BOOOO! Get ready for our Halloween contest!

Graber Orthodontics is excited to announce our Halloween contest!!! Now through Nov. 15th, post your Halloween photo on our Facebook wall and ask your friends to “Like” your photo for a chance to win a four-pack of movie tickets.

Two winners with the most “Likes” will win the movie tickets, courtesy of Graber Orthodontics.

You may post a photo of:

- Your Halloween costume
- Your carved pumpkin

Let’s see those ghoulish photos!

What made you choose Graber Orthodontics?

Exceptional orthodontic care has been the hallmark of Graber Orthodontics since 1946. Cutting edge technologies for designing patient specific treatment coupled with advanced treatment options is a winning combination for patients. Equally important, we provide you with informative, unhurried and gentle care... every step of the way. It's why Graber Orthodontics has been the trusted choice of thousands of patients.

Whether you’ve just come in for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Lee or Katie Graber or your family has been visiting Vernon Hills our office for years, we’d love to know: What made you choose us for your orthodontic treatment? You can write a review on our Facebook page or on our Google listing!

Happy Friday and have a wonderful weekend!

Graber Orthodontics, your Vernon Hills Damon® System braces providers

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber are pleased to offer our patients The Damon® System at our convenient Vernon Hills office. Damon braces allow your teeth to move more comfortably and easily than traditional braces. Thanks to these innovative new braces, achieving your perfect smile will be faster and easier than you ever thought possible.

You're probably thinking, "All right, Dr. Graber Give me the specifics on how Damon braces are an advantage."

Time-Saving

Damon's innovative technology of self-ligating braces saves you time in orthodontic treatment. The Damon system allows for fewer trips to our office, as well as faster movement of your teeth than with traditional braces. The light forces applied by Damon braces are "biologically compatible" meaning that they work with your body for gentler and quicker tooth movement.

Comfortable

Damon System braces have a unique slide mechanism that allows Drs. Graber to use far lighter forces to move teeth to their correct positions. That makes your treatment not only shorter, but it is also far more comfortable.

Because of its unique sliding door, the Damon bracket allows us to use high-tech, light-force wires to achieve tooth movement. This means less pressure on your teeth for more comfortable treatment. Not every orthodontist uses Damon self-ligating braces. The reason Drs. Graber do is simple: it means your experience in uncovering your radiant new smile will be more comfortable and convenient than ever.

To learn more about the Damon System, or to schedule a consultation at Graber Orthodontics, please give us a call at (626)768-7782. Happy Friday!

Graber Orthodontics, reminding you September is Childhood Injury Prevention Month!

This month, our staff at Graber Orthodontics want you to be extra, extra careful with your braces and appliances. After all, September marks the start of fall sports, which means an increased risk to mouth injuries. September also happens to be National Childhood Injury Prevention Month, and Drs. Lee and Katie Graber thought it would be a good idea to share a few sobering facts about sports and facial injuries, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists.

*More than half of the seven million sports and recreation-related injuries that occur each year are sustained by youth between ages 5 and 24. Collision and contact sports have higher injury rates—baseball, soccer, basketball and football account for about 80% of all sports-related emergency room visits, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

*Sixty-seven percent of parents say their child does not wear a mouth guard, yet, 70 percent say their biggest fear when their child plays is that they will get hurt.

*Of the parents whose children do not wear a mouth guard, 84 percent say it's because the league or coach does not require it, according to the AAO.

*The average high school baseball pitcher can throw a fast ball between 75-to-85 miles per hour. That compares to being hit in the mouth by a speeding car!

We hope this helps you remember to wear a mouth guard and other forms of protective gear when participating in fall sports! We encourage you to give our convenient Vernon Hills office a call if you have any questions! Have a wonderful weekend!

“Pick My Nose” contest at Graber Orthodontics!

It’s September, and that means a new contest is starting here at Graber Orthodontics! This month we are introducing, “Pick My Nose” where one must guess which molded nose matches which staff member.

The contest runs today through September 24th, and the winner gets dinner on us! Also, the week of September 13th is our second monthly theme week, “Wacky Tie”! If you show up to your appointment dressed in theme, you automatically get entered into our October contest, “Whose Empty Head is This?”

Stay tuned for more info!

Top 5 reasons to visit Graber Orthodontics for a complimentary consultation

There are plenty of reasons to visit Graber Orthodontics for a consultation this fall. Here are five.

1. Untreated dental problems can lead to overall health problems and/or a need for surgery later.

2. Sometimes a small problem can be intercepted prior to becoming a larger one, saving you both time and money.

3. Our office is patient-focused - we accept all insurance plans.

4. We offer interest-free financing options.

5. We offer complimentary orthodontic evaluations that include a 3-D scan, photos and a detailed treatment plan designed specifically for you by our talented doctors. There's nothing to lose!

More updates from Graber Orthodontics!

Graber Orthodontics has just undergone a huge change! We have always made excellent patient care our number one priority. But now, we are adding patient satisfaction, appreciation and fun to our priority list! This office has always been a place where patients are treated like family, but now we're (metaphorically) having a family reunion EVERY DAY with games, contests, photos, and excitement.

We've introduced monthly contests and theme weeks. We’re on the Web too! See us on YouTube, our weekly Blog or Facebook! We’re in the process of reinventing our Facebook page and hope you contribute your own stories. We’re participating within the community, most recently donating to Zachary Tran Memorial Golf outing. The office is also going green with patients on automatic debit, reducing our need for paper.

Feel free to shoot us an e-mail, give us a call, or write us with your ideas!!

What's going on at Graber Orthodontics?

Summer’s flown by here at Graber Orthodontics, but we have had time to make a few changes. We’d like to introduce Thomas, who is our new Office Manager. Thomas comes to us with great experience and a fresh look at the practice. Make sure you stop by to say hello!

We’ve also received a great response to the back-to-school contest which started August 2, and runs through August 19. August 23 (next Monday) starts the first ever GRABER THEME WEEK. The theme is “Dress like a nerd” in anticipation of the start of school season. If you show up to your appointment dressed in “theme”, you automatically get entered into the September contest “Pick My Nose”!!

National Smile Week at Graber Orthodontics!

Who told you there are no holidays in August? It’s National Smile Week through Friday, and a great time for us at Graber Orthodontics to remind our patients to practice good oral hygiene to keep those teeth shining during your orthodontic treatment! That of course includes brushing and flossing regularly, avoiding foods that can stain your teeth such as tea and coffee and visiting your general dentist here in Vernon Hills for checkups and cleanings.

And remember to smile at people you come across throughout the week, whether you know them or not! Smiles are contagious, and are GREAT to both give and receive. In addition, did you know that smiling can actually help you live longer, according to a recent study? We hope you're having a wonderful summer!

Remember to wear those mouth guards this summer!

Summer is here for another seven weeks, and our team at Graber Orthodontics thought today would be a great time to remind our young athletes in orthodontic treatment to protect both your mouth and appliances while participating in contact sports this summer. Whether you're throwing around the baseball in the backyard, playing in a light game of touch football or participating in any other contact sports, you should always wear a mouth guard.

Remember, only by using a mouth guard can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. The next time you're in for a visit with Dr. Lee Graber or Dr. Katie Graber, be sure to ask us for a mouth guard, and we will provide one for you!

Have a great weekend! We hope you're having a great summer so far!

Why choose Graber Orthodontics? [Video]

Exceptional orthodontic care has been the hallmark of Graber Orthodontics since 1946. That was the year that Dr. Tom Graber, son of a dentist, opened the practice. He was dedicated to providing quality, personalized orthodontic care to his patients.

Today, more and more patients know us for our commitment to education, outstanding patient care and leadership in the local, national and international orthodontic community.

Check out the above to see what a few of our patients are saying about their experience at Graber Orthodontics! If you're looking to get your child started on a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles or if you'd like to improve your own smile, look to the orthodontic practice that's been setting the standard for exceptional care for generations: Graber Orthodontics. We welcome you to our practice!

Invisalign and your oral health, from Graber Orthodontics

When considering their options for their treatment at Graber Orthodontics, patients often ask Drs. Lee and Katie Graber just how Invisalign treatment at our Vernon Hills office is so different than traditional braces. Invisalign, which is a series of removable aligners that are nearly invisible, not only help straighten your teeth, the treatment 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.

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.

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 gum disease.

If you have any questions about Invisalign treatment at our office, we invite you to ask Drs. Lee or Katie during your next visit. Drs. Lee and Katie Graber are 2010 Invisalign premier providers. We are a Premier Provider Practice, reflecting the number of our patients who have had Invisalign treatment. You may also your question on our Facebook page!

We hope you're enjoying the summer.

Dr. Lee Graber in the New York Times

Last week, our very own Dr. Lee Graber was mentioned and quoted in a New York Times article on 3-D technology titled, "Taking the Guesswork Out of Braces."

In the article, Three-dimensional imaging technology is discussed, with Dr. Graber talking about SureSmile technology, which is becoming more and more popular at our convenient Vernon Hills office.

“We’ve always emphasized the personal touch for the care of our patients but 3-D imaging allows us to harness new technology to make treatment even more precise, shorter and more comfortable.” Dr. Graber says.

We encourage you to read the full article. For more information about how we use 3-D technology at Graber Orthodontics, please visit our website or give us a call at 847-367-4920.

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber present: Patriotic fun facts!

This Sunday, our staff at Graber Orthodontics - including Drs. Lee and Katie - will be celebrating our nation's 234th birthday. And because we know our patients love fun facts, we thought we'd provide you with some fun facts about Independence Day! Have a great Fourth of July weekend everyone, and we'll see you soon!

- Independence Day was first celebrated in Philadelphia on July 8, 1776.

- An estimated 2.5 million people lived in America in July 1776. Today, an estimated 309 million people reside in the United States.

- The major objection to being ruled by Britain was taxation without representation, which meant that people didn't want to be taxed by a government that did not represent them.

- In 1941, Congress declared 4th of July a federal legal holiday. It is one of the few federal holidays that have not been moved to the nearest Friday or Monday.

- The stars on the original American flag were arranged in a circle to ensure that all colonies were equal.

- America's mascot, the bald eagle, can achieve speeds of up to 200 miles per hour when making a predatory dive. During a normal flight, bald eagles can travel up to 30 miles per hour.

- The American flag patch is backwards on U.S. Army uniforms. The reason? The blue field on the flag (the part with the stars) faces forward to symbolize carrying the American flag into battle.

- Someone who specializes in the history of flags is called a vexillologist.

- The word ‘patriotism’ comes from the Latin patria, which means ‘homeland’ or ‘fatherland.’

- According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans consume over 150 million hot dogs during their Independence Day festivities.

- Speaking of food, there's a 1-in-6 chance the beef on your backyard grill came from Texas. The Lone Star State is America's leader in the production of cattle and calves.

Get those checkups! From Graber Orthodontics

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber want to know: is your child brushing his or her teeth twice a day as recommended during their orthodontic treatment? If the answer is yes, we think that's fantastic! But, it’s also important for your child to visit the dentist every six months in addition to brushing their teeth a couple times a day, flossing (and visiting Graber Orthodontics as recommended by Drs. Lee or Katie during your treatment). 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 your child how to properly brush and floss their teeth, even during their orthodontic treatment

During an exam, your dentist usually will check the health of your child’s mouth, teeth, gums, cheeks and tongue. Checkups also typically include a thorough teeth cleaning and polishing. If your child has 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 Vernon Hills or nearby communities in Lake County or Chicago, please ask and we'll be happy to provide a few names!

Happy Friday and enjoy your weekend!

More happy patients at Graber Orthodontics!

Vernon Hills orthodontists Drs. Lee and Katie Graber absolutely love hearing from our current and former patients. Lately, we've been receiving a lot of reviews, and thought we'd share a few. Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about your treatment at Graber Orthodontics!

"Dr. Graber is very professional. When we came in for the consultation, I was impressed with the amount of time he spent with us. He was very thorough in his explanations and expectations for Mikey's dental work. That is one of the main reasons why we chose Graber Orthodontics over our other choices. He is kind and has a good sense of humor when dealing with my son." ~ Scott S.

"This is my second time around using Graber Orthodontics. I was very pleased when we came with my oldest son. The best reason to use your office is that you keep your appointments on time!!!! As a working mother, I can always count on getting to work at a certain time if we have an appointment at your office. It's the reason I came back with my second child (and of course we like your work!)" ~ William N.

"Everyone at Graber Orthodontics is very friendly, positive, and has a sense of humor with an 8 year old." ~ Dylan L.

"My kids like the video games out front. I like Dr. Graber's easy personality and the way he interacts with my son. He already has a great connection with my son and we've only been there for two appointments." ~ Frank M.

"Their service is impeccable. Everyone knows my name, they are genuinely interested in my progress, and they take the time to explain what happens throughout the process. If I have a problem with the braces themselves, I know I can reach either doctor and they will call me back – even on the weekends. Finding caring service providers is rare these days – but not at Graber Orthodontics." ~ Amy B.

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber want to know: what are your summer plans?

As the school year comes to an end for many of our patients and the days get longer and warmer, there’s no better way to beat the summer heat than jumping into a pool or cooling off under the shade with a cold beverage.

Which brings us to you: What are your summer plans? Do you have any interesting plans for a summer vacation? Does your family have a reunion planned? Our staff (as well as Drs. Lee and Katie Graber) would be interested in how you are all spending your summer vacations! If you’re headed to an exotic destination, awesome! If you're going camping, we'd like to hear about it! Going to hang out in Chicago? Tell us!

Please feel free to share your summer plans and adventures with us on our Facebook page as summer 2010 rolls along!

Graber Orthodontics, supporting National Smile Month

Would you believe that June is already here? For our staff at Graber Orthodontics, that means one thing: it's National Smile Month, and it's once again time to remind our patients to brush, floss, practice good nutrition at home (and over the summer) to avoid cavities and gum disease, among other dental health issues.

After all, there's more and more evidence that suggests folks with gum disease are more at risk for serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes.

Here are a few easy steps you can improve your oral health at home, courtesy of Drs. Lee and Katie Graber:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during treatment.
* Visit your dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call at 847-367-4920! We hope you had a relaxing and fun Memorial Day weekend!

SureSmile spotlighted on CNN! From Drs. Graber

We've blogged about SureSmile treatment in the past, and today wanted to share with a clip of SureSmile being discussed by Dr. Sanjay Gupta on CNN last week!

In the video, Dr. Gupta gives us a short profile of a Maryland teenager named Jessica Thompson, who wasn't really thrilled about getting traditional braces, and thought she'd give SureSmile's robotic wires a try instead. Well, guess what? Jessica is not alone - more and more people are choosing SureSmile as their treatment option at Graber Orthodontics.

With SureSmile treatment at Graber Orthodontics in Vernon Hills, getting braces sure isn’t what it used to be. Patients of Drs. Katie and Lee Graber get fantastic results in less time with this remarkable technology and typically spend less time in braces, need fewer office visits, experience less discomfort and ultimately greater results.

To learn more about SureSmile treatment at Graber Orthodontics, we invite you to give us a call at 847-367-4920!

Fun facts with Drs. Lee and Katie Graber!

At Graber Orthodontics, we know our patients love fun facts.

Who doesn't?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that Drs. Lee and Katie thought you might enjoy. Enjoy your weekend everyone!

• 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.

Write a Review of Graber Orthodontics!

Whether you've visited Graber Orthodontics for a week, months or even years, we'd love to hear your feedback about how Drs. Lee and Katie are doing! 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 Drs. Lee and Katie create more beautiful smiles in Vernon Hills, Libertyville, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest, Mundelein and surrounding communities.

You may write a review here.

Thank you and enjoy your week!

Drs. Lee and Katie at the AAO Annual Session!

Our patients at Graber Orthodontics can feel confident they are receiving the best in orthodontic health care - exceptional orthodontic care has been the hallmark of Graber Orthodontics since 1946, and our goal is to provide the most up-to-date technology and techniques for our patients using the best materials possible.

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber are devoted to life-long learning and further their education through reading, attending conferences and continuing education courses. One of those conferences includes the 2010 AAO Annual Session in Washington D.C., where Drs. Graber headed last weekend.

The AAO Annual Session is an always-educational event that is also one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world. It's also a time for Drs. Graber to consult with dental experts and orthodontists from around the country and stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, of course, allows Graber Orthodontics to give you, our wonderful patients, the best treatment experience possible.

In addition to being an Officer of the American Association of Orthodontists and having over 30 years of clinical experience, Dr. Lee Graber is Board-Certified with the American Board of Orthodontics, and is a past president of the Illinois Society of Orthodontists, the Midwestern Society of Orthodontists and the World Federation of Orthodontists. He is also a former faculty member at Northwestern University, Loyola University in Chicago and the University of Michigan.

Dr. Katie, who is also a proud member of the American Association of Orthodontists, is also a member of the American Dental Association, Midwestern Society of Orthodontists, Illinois Society of Orthodontists, Miami University Alumni Association, University of Michigan Alumni Association, North Shore Women's Dentists Group, Lake County Dental Study Club. She has taught at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry, as well as the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Isn't it nice to know you have a complete dental experts in Drs. Lee and Katie Graber taking care of perfecting your smile?

Ask Drs. Graber: Am I too old for braces?

Of course not! At Graber Orthodontics, nobody is "too old" for braces! In fact, our team recently read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996!

While it's true that braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, there is but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces: people want to look and feel great. In an age—and society—where looks matter as much as anything, and at a time when evenly-aligned and sparkling teeth might be the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing—wisely, we might add—to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Drs. Lee or Katie Graber 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, Drs. Lee or Katie Graber would love to have you in for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

Patients with special needs at Graber Orthodontics

At Graber Orthodontics we cater to our patients’ individual needs. There are times patients are afraid of a new medical/dental provider and need to establish a relationship with trust. We plan for a series of “socialization” visits so that fearful patients can get to know us and our team prior to beginning orthodontic care. Generally these types of visits help the patient feel better about care with us after becoming comfortable in the environment.

We have handicapped accessible facilities with patient chairs that adapt to those in a wheelchair. Alternatively, there is a private room for care should that be requested. We plan to treat each patient individually with respect to their appliances as well. Sometimes, traditional fixed braces are best and sometimes removable braces that allow more effective cleaning are better. At the initial evaluation or a subsequent socialization, these options are discussed.

What advice would you give to parents to prepare for their child’s first appointment or treatment?

The first appointment at the orthodontist is easy and fun. I would recommend making the initial appointment in the morning, especially for those with special needs. Research has shown that patients, when well rested, are much more capable of managing new experiences. At the end of a school day, patients are tired which compromises their coping mechanisms and makes new experiences more difficult. I would advise that parents not discuss prior bad experiences that they themselves had as a child in braces. Orthodontic treatment is not the same as it was before; braces are smaller and more comfortable. Additionally, they are easier to maintain and keep clean than for prior generations.

What questions should parents ask before or during their child’s treatment?

Here at Graber Orthodontics we aim to exceed the expectations of our patients and parents in terms of result and experience with care here. Along that vein, we feel that it is important that parents are involved in their child’s care and ask questions so that they can stay involved and abreast of the treatment.

Patients with special needs, after initial socialization, come into the treatment area independent of their parents. This allows them to continue to establish their relationship with the orthodontic team and shows the patient that the parent trusts the doctor. After the appointment, there is an opportunity for the doctor or orthodontic team member to update the parent on the treatment that was completed at the appointment and what is planned for the future.

Hey Dr. Graber! How does Invisalign work?

Did you ever wonder exactly how Invisalign technology works on your teeth? This helpful video, courtesy of our friends at Invisalign, shows the process of these clear aligners that move your teeth just as well as traditional braces.

For more information on Invisalign, or if you have questions about your Invisalign treatment with Drs. Lee or Katie Graber, please give us a call. We hope you have a great weekend!!

Graber Orthodontics in the news!

Recently, Drs. Lee and Katie Graber were interviewed by the Vernon Hills Review for an article about SureSmile. Our doctors were among the first orthodontists in the Chicago area to use SureSmile technology, and since 2008, our practice has treated approximately 100 patients using SureSmile, with many others currently undergoing treatment.

The great thing about SureSmile technology is that those patients in treatment typically spend one-third less time in braces than those using conventional orthodontics, have 60 percent fewer office visits and experience better overall treatment outcomes.

Our staff encourages you to read the rest of the article. To learn more about SureSmile treatment, or to find out if you are a candidate for SureSmile at Graber Orthodontics, please give us a call at (847) 367-4920.

Enjoy the rest of your week!

Graber Orthodontics, reminding you to play it safe this spring

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber have blogged about the advantage of wearing a mouth guard when playing sports, and we thought a reminder wouldn’t hurt. You see, April happens to be National Facial Protection Month, and it’s a good time to remind our young athletes about staying safe on the field this spring. According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year.

For Drs. Graber and our staff, that's simply not acceptable.

The above video contains five ways to ensure the safety of your mouth this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please give us a call at (847) 367-4920. Have a great rest of the week!

Talking retainers with Drs. Lee and Katie Graber

If you recently completed treatment at Graber Orthodontics, our staff would like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Katie and Lee Graber 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 Drs. Katie and Lee Graber 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 Drs. Katie and Lee Graber, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Your turn! From Graber Orthodontics

Week after week, Drs. Katie and Lee Graber blog about important topics pertinent to orthodontic care and well-being. This week, we thought we’d step back and ask: what’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the always-changing field of orthodontics? What would you like us to focus on our blog? Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page!

So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Invisalign Teen™ at Graber Orthodontics: What's the advantage?

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber know that for teens, image is everything. 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 teenagers. But... not to worry! There is a clear alternative to traditional braces! The team at Graber 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. Drs. Lee and Katie Graber are certified Invisalign providers. We are a Premier Provider Practice, reflecting the number of our patients who have had Invisalign treatment.

Happy Tuesday!

Ask Drs. Graber: Who benefits from braces?

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Drs. Lee and Katie Graber 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 adult orthodontics will transform your smile, as well as your life!

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month, from Graber Orthodontics

Each February, the American Dental Association (ADA) sponsors National Children's Dental Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of oral health. Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

For kids wearing traditional braces, brushing and flossing can become more difficult, requiring extra time and vigilance to remove food particles that accumulate on and between the teeth and in braces. Our team at Graber Orthodontics is here to tell you new options for braces such as Invisalign Teen, which is removable, make it easier for kids to maintain good oral health during orthodontic treatment.

If the health of your teeth is ignored during treatment with braces, the results can be significantly compromised. Drs. Lee and Katie Graber are both available to explain why effective brushing and flossing is one of the most critical actions needed from patients during orthodontic treatment. Have you visited us lately? Give us a call!

Graber Orthodontics, reminding you to stay safe and warm during the snow storm

With the intense weather conditions in our region the next few days, Drs. Lee and Katie Graber and our team at Graber Orthodontics thought it would be a good time to remind you, our valued patients (and parents) to be safe when out and about.

If you don't feel safe going out, you can always reschedule your appointment. At Graber Orthodontics, our primary concern is our patients' well-being, and that includes staying safe on the roads during inclement weather! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call!

Tackling sports injuries with Graber Orthodontics

Drs. Lee and Katie Graber, as well as our team at Graber Orthodontics know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. Another 67 percent admitted their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when playing sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer.

That’s why the team Graber Orthodontics is doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—our doctorsmay recommend the best mouth guard for you.

In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. 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. Give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Graber Orthodontics.

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

BRRRR! It may still be chilly outside (10 degrees today!), but can you believe we’re only a couple of months away from spring? Drs. Katie and Lee Graber, as well as the rest of the team at Graber Orthodontics want to know: What are you doing in January? What have you accomplished this year? Are you keeping up with your New Year’s Resolution? Any big mid-winter break plans? Anything exciting going on in your life?

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!

Stay warm!

Ask Drs. Graber: What's the advantage of the Damon™ System?

We've blogged about the advantage of the Damon System at Graber Orthodontics in the past, and today thought we'd remind you about the advantage of Damon Braces when performed by Drs. Graber.

A lot of our patients, (especially you parents!) come to Drs. Lee and Katie Graber thinking traditional braces are the only answer to straight teeth. Here at Graber Orthodontics, we offer the Damon System, a revolutionary new braces system that can give you better results in less time!

At this point, you probably have a couple of questions, such as:

Am I right for the Damon System?

Drs. Graber will evaluate your eligibility for the Damon System, and the procedure can be performed for children and adults alike!

What makes Damon braces better?

Probably the biggest advantage of Damon braces over traditional brackets is the amount of time and effort involved. Graber Orthodontics can often cut months off of the total treatment time for patients using the Damon System, and less visits to our office are necessary to make adjustments.

In addition, the Damon System brackets are:

• Cleaner- Damon brackets don’t have the elastic of traditional brackets, and are less prone to all the plaque buildup that your dentist warns you about!
• Discreet- Damon braces are smaller and have fewer parts than traditional brackets, making them less noticeable and more comfortable.
• No tightening- With the Damon system, Drs. Graber can position your teeth and avoid frequent adjustments. This also reduces the need for complicated tooth extractions or surgery.

If you have been thinking about an orthodontic procedure, come see us at Graber Orthodontics for an assessment to see if the Damon System is right for you!

Happy Wednesday!

Graber Orthodontics want to know: What helps you relax in our office?

Drs. Graber understand people aren't always thrilled to see 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 Graber Orthodontics that puts you at ease or makes you comfortable? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly staff? Drs. Graber themselves?

Let us know because we just love getting patient reviews!

The advantage of SureSmile® at Graber Orthodontics

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? Drs. Graber and our team at Graber Orthodontics understand that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

But you’re in luck, because Drs. Graber specialize in SureSmile, high-tech braces that are revolutionizing the orthodontic industry. SureSmile, which combines digital 3-D imaging, has computer-aided treatment planning and customized archwires to straighten teeth about 40 percent faster than traditional braces. The SureSmile program calculates the exact shape and pattern of the teeth and bends and cuts the braces wires, with more precision than traditional braces.

There are three steps. First, we identify the initial tooth position with the patented OraScanner, a wand with a tiny camera attached. The OraScanner creates a precise 3-D digital model of your mouth, which is then uploaded into software that lets Drs. Graber view your mouth and teeth from any angle. Next, the SureSmile system allows us to create your entire treatment plan prior to treatment, using special computer software to analyze the 3-D model of your mouth and develop a custom archwire treatment. Finally, SureSmile’s robotic technology bends Shape Memory Alloy archwires, which can “remember” your prescription.

Results

With SureSmile’s specially programmed archwires, your teeth move more directly into their intended positions. The result for our patients is shortened treatment time and a more comfortable experience in braces.

Once the braces are on it’s only a matter of time before they are taken off revealing beautiful, straight, healthy teeth. With traditional braces a patient is expected to schedule 18 to 20 office visits over two years. With SureSmile, patients average seven to 10 visits and can have their braces off within half the time!

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, and braces are on the horizon, give us a call!