Orthodontist in Winnetka, IL

What Does an Orthodontist in Winnetka Do?

An orthodontist diagnoses and corrects misaligned teeth and bite issues using braces, clear aligners, and other appliances. This dental specialist focuses on tooth movement, jaw development, and bite correction to build straighter, healthier smiles for children, teens and adults through custom treatment plans.

At Brady Orthodontics, Dr. Brady designs each plan around the patient's goals, lifestyle, and stage of life. Orthodontists are dentists first, then specialists. After dental school, they complete two to three additional years of training focused entirely on how teeth move and how jaws grow. Dr. Brady completed four years of college, four years of dental school, and two years of orthodontics residency, for a total of 11 years of training. He also holds a teaching role at the UIC orthodontic residency, helping shape the next generation of orthodontists.

At Brady Orthodontics in Winnetka, you'll find a full lineup of treatment options under one roof:

• Clear aligners for a subtle treatment, straighter smile
• KLOwen custom metal braces
• Clear braces for a less noticeable look
• Interceptive treatment for younger children
• Palatal expanders to make room for your new smile

Parents planning ahead for a child and adults ready for a dream smile will both find a plan that fits, and Dr. Brady is here to help every step of the way.

Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment

Orthodontic treatment does far more than straighten teeth. A properly aligned smile boosts confidence, improves bite function, makes brushing and flossing easier, closes gaps, and protects your long-term oral health. These benefits make daily life easier in ways most people don't expect until they finish treatment.

Here's what a properly aligned smile can do for you:

• Boost confidence. A straighter smile gives you brand new confidence at work, at school, and in photos. Many patients tell us they smile more freely once treatment ends.
• Improve bite function. Correcting an overbite, underbite, or crossbite reduces uneven wear on your teeth and can ease jaw tension and TMJ discomfort.
• Make cleaning easier. Crowded or overlapping teeth trap food and plaque. Straighter teeth are simpler to brush and floss, which lowers your risk of cavities and gum disease.
• Fix gaps and crowding. Whether your teeth are too close together or too far apart, orthodontic treatment closes spaces and creates room for every tooth.
• Protect your investment. A balanced bite spreads chewing forces evenly, helping you keep your smile for a lifetime.

Today's treatment options are far more comfortable and discreet than they used to be. Clear aligners are nearly invisible and completely removable, so you can eat what you love and smile through every meeting. KLOwen custom braces use precision brackets designed for your unique bite, which often means a shorter time in treatment and fewer adjustment appointments.

According to the American Association of Orthodontists, straight teeth and a healthy bite contribute to better overall oral health, not just a nicer smile. That's the difference between cosmetic fixes and true orthodontic care.

Your Orthodontic Treatment Process at Brady Orthodontics

Your smile journey at Brady Orthodontics keeps you informed, comfortable, and excited about your progress at every step.

Step 1: Free consult and first free exam

You'll meet Dr. Brady, tour our Winnetka office, and discuss your goals. There's no pressure and no obligation, just honest answers.

Step 2: Digital scans and custom treatment plan

We use digital scanners instead of messy molds to map your teeth in 3D. Dr. Brady then builds a treatment plan tailored to your bite, timeline, and lifestyle.

Step 3: Fitting your braces or aligners

Whether you choose clear aligners, KLOwen braces, or clear braces, this visit gets you started. We'll walk you through care instructions and answer every question.

Step 4: Adjustment appointments

You'll visit us every 4 to 8 weeks so Dr. Brady can track progress and make small adjustments. Our NiTi shape-memory wires apply gentle, constant pressure to move teeth, a more comfortable approach than the old-school wire tightening.

Step 5: Retainers

Once your teeth are in their new positions, a custom retainer keeps them there. This is how you keep your smile for a lifetime.

Treatment time varies based on your case. Most patients finish in 12 to 24 months, though shorter cases can wrap up in as little as 6 months. As your orthodontist in Winnetka, Dr. Brady will give you a realistic timeline at your first free exam.

Are You a Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?

Almost everyone is. Brady Orthodontics treats children, teens and adults, and each life stage has its own sweet spot for care with your orthodontist in Winnetka.

Children (around age 7)

The American Association of Orthodontists and Dr. Brady recommend a child's first orthodontic evaluation by around age seven. Most kids don't need treatment yet, but early checks can spot crowding, crossbites, or jaw growth issues while they're easiest to address. Interceptive treatment, including palatal expanders, can guide development and make room for your new smile.

Teens (ages 12 to 16)

This is the most common time for braces or clear aligners because most permanent teeth are in place. Teens often heal quickly and adapt well to treatment.

Adults

It's never too late for your dream smile. Many adults choose clear aligners for their subtle treatment, straighter smile benefits, so coworkers and clients barely notice you're in treatment.

Common signs you may benefit from a visit:

• Crowded, crooked, or overlapping teeth
• Visible gaps between teeth
• Overbite, underbite, or crossbite
• Jaw discomfort or uneven tooth wear
• Difficulty cleaning between teeth

If any of these sound familiar, a free consult with Dr. Brady is the easiest next step.

Why Choose Brady Orthodontics, Your Orthodontist in Winnetka

Choosing the right orthodontist matters. You're trusting someone with your smile for the next year or two, and the results last a lifetime.

Here's what sets Brady Orthodontics apart:

• Board-certified orthodontist. Dr. Patrick Brady is a board-certified orthodontist through the American Board of Orthodontics (ABO), and an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) and American Dental Association (ADA).
• 11 years of training. Four years of college, four years of dental school, and two years of orthodontics residency, plus a teaching role at the UIC orthodontic residency.
• State-of-the-art treatments. Digital scans, digital X-rays, NiTi shape-memory wires, and KLOwen custom braces mean comfortable & modern treatments at every visit.
• Personalized plans. Dr. Brady takes time to listen to your goals before recommending anything. No cookie-cutter care.
• Friendly & fun office. From the front desk to the treatment chair, our team makes every visit a positive one.
• Convenient Winnetka location. Find us at 585 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, IL 60093, with a second office in Evanston for added flexibility.

At every appointment, you'll work directly with Dr. Brady, not a rotating cast of providers. That continuity is part of what makes the experience feel personal, and it's a difference you'll notice from your very first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does orthodontic treatment cost in Winnetka?

Cost depends on the treatment type, length, and complexity of your case. Dr. Brady reviews pricing openly during your free consult, and our team walks you through payment options so there are no surprises. A personalized quote is the most accurate way to know.

How long do braces or aligners take?

Most patients complete treatment in 12 to 24 months, though some shorter cases finish in 6 to 12 months. Your timeline depends on how much movement is needed and which treatment option you choose. Dr. Brady gives you a clear estimate after your digital scans at the first free exam.

Do you offer free consultations?

Yes. Your first free exam includes a meeting with Dr. Brady, a look at your smile, and a discussion of your goals. There's no cost and no obligation, just useful information to help you decide what's next.

What's the difference between braces and clear aligners?

Feature	KLOwen Braces	Clear Aligners
Visibility	Visible brackets	Nearly invisible
Removable	No, fixed	Yes, for meals
Food restrictions	Some to avoid	None
Best for	Complex cases	Mild to moderate cases

Dr. Brady helps you pick the option that best fits your smile and your life.

At what age should my child see an orthodontist?

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends a first orthodontic evaluation by around age 7. Most kids won't need treatment yet, but an early visit lets Dr. Brady catch developing issues while they're easiest to guide.

Does insurance cover orthodontic treatment?

Many dental insurance plans include orthodontic benefits, though coverage varies widely. Our team is happy to review your plan and explain what's included during your free consult.

Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Ready to begin? Getting started is easy! Book your free consult with Dr. Brady and take the first step toward your dream smile, with no cost and no pressure.

Our Brady Orthodontics offices in Winnetka and Evanston welcome children, teens and adults from across the North Shore. Call us at (847) 446-2245 or book online at bradyortho.com/free-consult. You can also visit us at 585 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, IL 60093.

Dream big. Smile big. We can't wait to meet you.