Orthodontist in Glencoe: Braces & Clear Aligners for All Ages
What Does an Orthodontist in Glencoe Do?
An orthodontist in Glencoe is a dental specialist who diagnoses and corrects misaligned teeth and jaws using braces, clear aligners, and other appliances. At Brady Orthodontics, Dr. Brady helps children, teens and adults achieve healthier bites and straighter smiles through customized treatment plans that address both function and appearance. Glencoe families are served conveniently from our nearby Winnetka office, just a few minutes away.
So what's the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist? Orthodontists complete dental school just like dentists, then go on to an additional two to three years of specialty residency focused entirely on tooth movement, jaw development, and bite correction. Dr. Brady completed four years of college, four years of dental school, and two years of orthodontics residency, totaling 11 years of training. He also teaches at the UIC orthodontic residency program.
Common conditions Dr. Brady treats include:
- Crowding when teeth overlap or twist due to lack of space
- Gaps and spacing between teeth
- Overbite where upper teeth extend too far over the lower teeth
- Underbite when lower teeth sit in front of upper teeth
- Crossbite where upper and lower teeth don't align properly
- Open bite when front teeth don't touch when the mouth is closed
Glencoe families have several treatment choices at Brady Orthodontics. Metal braces remain a reliable, effective option for moving teeth precisely. Clear braces blend with your natural tooth color for a more subtle treatment, straighter smile. Clear aligners offer a nearly invisible, removable option that fits busy lifestyles. For younger patients with developing jaws, Dr. Brady may also recommend palatal expanders or interceptive treatment to guide growth.
Every smile is different, and that's exactly why Dr. Brady takes the time to listen, examine, and design a plan that fits your goals. Whether you're a parent exploring options for your child or an adult ready to invest in your own dream smile, we're here to help every step of the way.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment delivers four core benefits: healthier teeth and gums that are easier to clean, a properly aligned bite that improves chewing comfort, boosted confidence from a straighter smile, and long-lasting stability when you wear your retainer. Straightening your teeth does much more than improve appearance, it supports your whole-mouth health for years to come.
Completing treatment at Brady Orthodontics gives you:
- Healthier teeth and gums. Straight teeth are easier to brush and floss, which lowers your risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss over time.
- Better bite function. When your upper and lower teeth meet properly, you can chew more comfortably and reduce strain on your jaw muscles and joints.
- Boosted confidence. A straighter smile changes how you feel about yourself. Many of our patients tell us they smile more in photos and feel more at ease in social and professional settings.
- Long-lasting stability. When you follow your treatment plan and wear your retainer as directed, your dream smile can last for life.
- Options for every age and lifestyle. From metal braces for active kids to clear aligners for working professionals, there's a treatment that fits your routine.
Take a quick look at how the main benefits stack up across treatment types:
| Benefit | Metal Braces | Clear Braces | Clear Aligners |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effective for complex cases | Excellent | Very good | Good for most cases |
| Discreet appearance | Lower | Higher | Highest |
| Removable for eating | No | No | Yes |
| Easier oral hygiene | Standard | Standard | Easier (removable) |
| Appointment frequency | Every 4-8 weeks | Every 4-8 weeks | Every 6-10 weeks |
The American Association of Orthodontists notes that properly aligned teeth and jaws contribute to better long-term oral health and overall well-being. That's why investing in your smile now pays off for years.
Whatever option you choose, Dr. Brady focuses on making your time in treatment comfortable, predictable, and even fun. Welcome to your new smile.
The Orthodontic Treatment Process at Brady Orthodontics
The orthodontic process at Brady Orthodontics typically includes five steps: a free consultation, a custom plan review, fitting of braces or aligners, regular progress visits every 4-8 weeks, and a retainer phase to protect your results. Most treatment plans run 12-24 months, though timelines vary based on your individual needs.
Take a look at what each step involves in detail:
Step 1: Free Consultation and Digital Exam
Your first free exam includes digital scans, photos, and a sit-down conversation with Dr. Brady. He'll examine your bite, talk through your goals, and answer every question. No pressure, no obligation.
Step 2: Custom Treatment Plan and Option Review
Dr. Brady designs a plan tailored to your smile. You'll learn about each treatment option, including estimated timeline, what to expect at appointments, and pricing. We want you to feel fully informed before you decide.
Step 3: Fitting Braces or Receiving Aligners
If you choose metal braces or clear braces, we'll bond them to your teeth in a single comfortable visit. Aligner patients receive their first set of trays along with clear instructions on wear and care. KLOwen braces use 3D-printed precision to position brackets exactly where they belong, which can shorten total treatment time.
Step 4: Regular Adjustment Appointments and Progress Checks
You'll visit Brady Orthodontics every 4-8 weeks for adjustment appointments or new aligner sets. These quick visits let Dr. Brady track progress and make any tweaks needed to keep your smile journey on schedule. NiTi shape-memory wires share advanced technology that helps with tooth movement between visits.
Step 5: Retainers to Maintain Results
Once your teeth are in their ideal position, we'll remove your braces or finish your aligner series. You'll receive a custom retainer to help keep your smile for a lifetime. Wearing it as Dr. Brady directs is the key to long-term stability.
Most patients complete treatment within 12-24 months, though some shorter cases finish faster and complex cases may take a bit longer. Dr. Brady will give you a realistic timeline at your first free exam.
Are You a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Most children, teens and adults are candidates for some form of orthodontic care. Whether you've been thinking about treatment for years or just noticed something off about your bite, Dr. Brady can tell you exactly where you stand at your free consult.
Use this general guide by age group to see where you fit:
Children (Around Age 7)
The American Association of Orthodontists and Dr. Brady recommend a child receive their first orthodontic evaluation by around age seven. At this age, enough adult teeth have come in for Dr. Brady to spot developing issues like crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth concerns. Early evaluation doesn't always mean early treatment, but it lets us watch growth and step in at the right moment. For kids with narrow upper arches, a palatal expander can help make room for your new smile before all the adult teeth arrive.
Teens (Ages 12-16)
The teen years are the most popular time for treatment because most permanent teeth are in place. Teens often choose between metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners depending on lifestyle and preference. Treatment during this stage takes advantage of natural growth and sets up a healthy bite for life. Many North Shore parents in Glencoe schedule treatment now to fit easily around school and activities.
Adults (Any Age)
It's never too late to improve your smile. Adults make up a growing portion of our practice, and many choose clear aligners for the subtle treatment, straighter smile experience. Whether you skipped braces as a kid or your teeth have shifted over time, Dr. Brady can help you reach your dream smile.
Signs You May Benefit from Treatment
- Teeth that overlap, twist, or look crowded
- Visible gaps or spacing between teeth
- Trouble biting or chewing comfortably
- Jaw clicking, popping, or strain
- A bite that feels uneven when you close your mouth
- Difficulty cleaning between certain teeth
If any of these sound familiar, the next step is simple. Schedule a free consultation and let Dr. Brady take a look.
Why Glencoe Families Choose Brady Orthodontics
Glencoe families have plenty of options for orthodontic care along the North Shore. So what sets Brady Orthodontics apart as a trusted orthodontist in Glencoe?
Specialized, Experienced Care
Dr. Brady is a board-certified orthodontist with 11 years of training, including four years of college, four years of dental school, and two years of orthodontics residency. He's board-certified by the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and the American Dental Association (ADA). On top of his clinical practice, he teaches at the UIC orthodontic residency program, helping shape the next generation of orthodontists.
State-of-the-Art Technology
Our offices use digital scanners (no goopy molds), digital X-rays, NiTi shape-memory wires, and KLOwen custom braces designed specifically for your teeth. This technology means more precise tooth movement, fewer appointments, and a more comfortable experience.
Personalized Plans for Every Age
Dr. Brady treats children, teens and adults with the same focus on quality and care. Whether your child needs interceptive treatment, your teen wants clear aligners, or you're ready for adult treatment, we build a plan around your goals.
Convenient North Shore Access
Glencoe families can reach our Winnetka office in just a few minutes, and our Evanston location offers another easy option. Flexible appointment times work around school, sports, and busy work schedules.
Friendly & Fun Atmosphere
From the moment you walk in, our team works to make every visit relaxing and enjoyable. At every appointment, you'll interact personally with Dr. Brady and have his full attention to ask questions, raise concerns, or share a laugh.
When you choose Brady Orthodontics, you're choosing expertise, comfort, and a team that genuinely cares about your smile journey from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontists in Glencoe
How much do braces cost in Glencoe?
The cost of braces depends on the type of treatment, complexity of your case, and length of treatment. Orthodontic treatment is a multi-year investment in your long-term oral health, and the right plan pays off for years. At Brady Orthodontics, we review pricing at your free consultation and offer flexible payment options to fit your budget.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
Most patients complete treatment within 12-24 months. Shorter cases involving minor adjustments may finish faster, while complex bite corrections can take a bit longer. Dr. Brady provides a personal timeline estimate at your first free exam based on your specific needs.
What is the best age to see an orthodontist?
The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by age seven. At this age, Dr. Brady can spot developing concerns and decide whether early monitoring or interceptive treatment is helpful. Glencoe and North Shore teens and adults can also start treatment at any time.
Are clear aligners as effective as braces?
For most cases, yes. Clear aligners straighten teeth using a series of fully customized, nearly invisible trays. For more complex bite issues, metal braces or clear braces may give Dr. Brady more precise control. He'll recommend the best option based on your goals at your free consult.
Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?
Many dental insurance plans include some orthodontic coverage, especially for children and teens. Our team will help you understand your benefits and walk you through any out-of-pocket costs. We do our best to make treatment accessible for every Glencoe family across the North Shore.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
No referral is needed. You can schedule a free consultation directly with Brady Orthodontics whenever you're ready. Many patients come on their own, while others are referred by their general dentist. Either way, we're happy to see you.
Schedule Your Free Consultation in Glencoe
Ready to take the first step toward your dream smile? Getting started is easy!
Brady Orthodontics offers a free consult with Dr. Brady, including a full exam, digital scans, and time to talk through every option. There's no pressure and no obligation. Just a friendly conversation about how to get the smile you've been picturing.
We welcome children, teens and adults from Glencoe and across the North Shore at both of our offices in Winnetka and Evanston. Whether you're exploring metal braces, clear braces, or clear aligners, Dr. Brady and our team are ready to help.
Call (847) 446-2245 or schedule a free consultation online. Dream big. Smile big.