Looking for braces in Chicago, IL?

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What are braces?

races are an orthodontic treatment designed to offer much more than just a way to correct crooked or crowded teeth. Whether alignment issues stem from genetics, early tooth loss, or habits like thumb-sucking, a misaligned bite can impact both function and appearance. If you’re dealing with crowding, gaps, or bite concerns, dental braces are crafted to be a time-tested and highly effective solution.

Traditional braces, also known as bracket braces, remain one of the most reliable orthodontic treatments available today. Crafted to correct a wide range of alignment issues, these systems provide precise, predictable results for patients of all ages.

4 benefits of braces

Alignment

Straighter teeth that are easier to clean

Function

Improved bite for comfortable chewing

Health

Reduced wear on teeth and supporting structures

Confidence

A more balanced, natural-looking smile

Why braces matter

Traditional braces use a system of brackets and wires crafted to apply gentle, continuous pressure, gradually shifting your teeth into ideal alignment. While many adults and teenagers choose clear aligners, traditional braces remain the trusted braces solution for versatility and precise control.

Because they are fixed to your teeth 24/7, they work continuously without relying on compliance or remembering to put them back in after meals. More importantly, braces are crafted to effectively and efficiently correct severe crowding, complex bite issues, rotated teeth, or major jaw realignment, which can deliver reliable, predictable, and beautiful results for even the most challenging cases.

Who can benefit from braces?

Braces can help children, teenagers, and adults with a wide range of orthodontic concerns. Some people have crowded or crooked teeth, while others have bite problems that affect comfort or function. During an examination, our dentist will evaluate your teeth, gums, and bite to determine whether braces are the right treatment or if another orthodontic option may better meet your needs.

Why seeing our family dentist early for orthodontics can make a difference

Many orthodontic concerns begin developing long before all permanent teeth have erupted. Regular dental checkups allow our dentist to monitor how your child's teeth, jaws, and bite are developing, making it easier to identify concerns such as crowding, spacing, crossbites, or bite alignment before they become more complex. Early evaluations don't always mean braces are needed right away, but they can help determine the most appropriate time for treatment and whether monitoring is the best approach.

Because Edgewater Dental Group provides comprehensive family dentistry, our doctors have the opportunity to follow many patients' oral health over time rather than seeing them only when orthodontic concerns arise. This continuity of care allows our team to monitor growth, discuss changes with families, and recommend orthodontic treatment when it will provide the greatest benefit. Dr. Szekely has a special interest in braces, Invisalign® treatment, and general orthodontic care, while Dr. Hermann has many years of experience providing Invisalign.

What to expect during braces treatment

1. Comprehensive examination

For in-office treatment, a professional-strength whitening gel is carefully applied to the teeth while your gums and other soft tissues are protected. If take-home whitening is recommended, we'll provide custom trays and explain how to use them correctly for consistent results.

2. Diagnostic records and treatment planning

If braces are recommended, digital X-rays, photographs, or impressions may be taken to evaluate tooth position and bite relationships. These records can help our dentist create a personalized treatment plan that considers both tooth movement and long-term stability.

3. Placing your braces

Once your treatment plan is finalized, brackets are carefully bonded to each tooth and connected with an orthodontic wire. The process is designed to be comfortable for most patients and usually takes about one to two hours, depending on the complexity of treatment.

4. Regular progress visits

Throughout treatment, you'll return for periodic adjustment appointments. During these visits, our dentist monitors tooth movement, makes any necessary adjustments, and answers questions about caring for your braces, helping keep treatment progressing as planned.

5. Completing treatment and protecting your results

Once your teeth have reached their planned positions, your braces are removed, and retainers are provided to help maintain your new smile. Wearing your retainer as directed is an important part of protecting the results you've achieved.

Oral Health And Overall Health

A properly aligned bite can make brushing and flossing more effective by reducing areas where plaque and food particles become trapped. Healthy teeth and gums play an important role in overall wellness, and organizations such as the American Dental Association (ADA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continue to emphasize the connection between good oral hygiene and overall health. Maintaining regular dental visits throughout orthodontic treatment helps support healthy teeth, gums, and lasting results.

At-home care after braces

Brush carefully after every meal using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Floss daily with floss threaders or orthodontic floss designed for braces.
Avoid hard, sticky, and chewy foods that may damage brackets or wires.
Wear elastics exactly as instructed if they are part of your treatment.
Continue attending all scheduled adjustment appointments.
Contact our office if a bracket becomes loose or a wire causes persistent discomfort.
Wear your retainer as directed after treatment to help maintain tooth alignment.

Why choose Edgewater Dental Group for braces

Choosing braces is an investment in your long-term oral health, so it's important to work with a dental team that understands how orthodontic treatment fits into your overall care. At Edgewater Dental Group, our dentist takes a detailed approach by evaluating your bite, gum health, and overall dental condition before recommending treatment.

Because we provide a range of family services, many patients begin visiting our office long before orthodontic treatment is needed. This allows our team to monitor changes over time, identify developing concerns early, and recommend treatment when the timing is right. Throughout your braces journey, we'll continue to monitor your oral health, answer your questions, and help you care for your teeth and gums while treatment progresses.

A female dental staff member at Edgewater Dental Group standing in the reception area

About the Edgewater Dental Group team

Our doctors are committed to continuing education and comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages. By combining preventive, restorative, and orthodontic services under one roof, our team can provide personalized care that supports your smile at every stage of life.

Interested in learning more? Visit this page now!

Real patient reviews

“Just had braces placed at this same location and I’m very happy!!!! Erica put my braces on with no problem. If you’re thinking about any orthodontic care, this office will be perfect for you.”

– R.

“Switching to a new dental office can be intimidating, as I value my teeth care deeply and wanted to ensure I’d find the right place. I’m glad I picked Edgewater Dental, as I had a great first visit. The entire staff was friendly and welcoming.”

– Rye.

“Great place, great service, everyone treated me with special care.”

– Rxch T.

Ready To Get Started?

If you’re ready to improve your smile, our team is here to help. With customized care and proven orthodontic solutions like dental braces, we’ll guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more beautifully aligned smile.

(773) 825-6725

FAQs about band and bracket braces

How long does braces treatment usually take?

The length of dental braces treatment varies depending on the complexity of your case. Most patients wear traditional braces for 12 to 24 months, though some cases may be shorter or longer. Before beginning orthodontic care, any underlying issues like cavities or gum concerns must be addressed. Establishing a strong, healthy foundation ensures your treatment is as comfortable, efficient, and effective as possible. Schedule your visit with us today by calling (773) 825-6725.

Are dental braces painful or uncomfortable?

Dental braces in Edgewater, Chicago, are not typically painful, but you may experience mild discomfort or pressure after adjustments. This temporary discomfort is a sign that your teeth are responding to the gentle forces that gradually move them into better alignment. Eating softer foods, rinsing with warm salt water, and using over-the-counter pain relief if recommended can help during this adjustment period. If you experience persistent pain or a broken bracket or wire, our team should evaluate the issue promptly. Give our caring team a call at (773) 825-6725.

How often do I need to visit the dentist during braces treatment?

Why are traditional braces important?

Traditional metal braces are actually known for their efficacy and affordability, which is why we proudly offer them at our clinic. Metal brackets are affixed to the teeth, and wires thread through them to guide teeth into their correct positions. The wire is usually made of metal alloys optimized for comfort while providing sufficient force to align the teeth. Unlike removable aligners, braces are securely attached to the teeth, allowing for precise, continuous movement throughout treatment. This makes them a trusted option for addressing complex cases involving significant crowding, spacing, tooth rotation, or bite misalignment.

How do I know if I need dental braces?

Dental braces in Chicago may be recommended if your teeth are crowded, crooked, spaced too far apart, or if your bite doesn't come together properly. You may also notice difficulty cleaning certain areas of your teeth, uneven tooth wear, or discomfort when chewing. Some other signs that you may require orthodontic care include missing or extra teeth, jaw pain, frequent tongue or cheek biting, irregular loss of baby teeth in childhood, and more. Book a professional, personalized consultation with us today via the Contact page.

Can adults get braces, or are they just for teenagers?

Braces can be a suitable orthodontic treatment for both teenagers and adults. While many patients begin treatment during adolescence, healthy teeth and gums are the most important factors when determining whether someone is a good candidate, not age. Teenagers often benefit because their jaws are still developing, making some types of tooth movement more predictable. Adults, however, can successfully straighten their teeth, improve their bite, and address orthodontic concerns at any stage of life.

When should my child have their first orthodontic evaluation?

The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that children have their first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this stage, our dentist can assess how the permanent teeth are developing, identify early signs of crowding or bite concerns, and monitor jaw growth. An early evaluation doesn't necessarily mean your child will need braces right away. In many cases, treatment isn't recommended until more permanent teeth have erupted. However, identifying potential issues early can allow us to monitor development and recommend orthodontic care at the most appropriate time, helping support healthy growth and long-term oral health.