The Forever Smiles Blog

Check Out Dr. Razdolsky's YouTube Channel

2011-08-16T11:05:00.000-07:00

Dr. Razdolsky has added new videos to our YouTube Channel! We invite patients to check out our latest videos, which include everything from instructions on how to handle orthodontic emergencies to information about forsus appliances.

Would you like to be on our YouTube channel? If so, please let us know during your next appointment. We would love to share your experience at Forever Smiles with the world! Our team is always willing to record patients who would like to discuss their experience with braces and with Dr. Razdolsky on the silver screen.

Friday fun facts, from Forever Smiles

2011-08-12T09:24:00.000-07:00

Everyone loves fun facts. Fun, fun, fun! The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, has come up with some fun facts about orthodontics that our team at Forever Smiles thought you might enjoy.

• 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.

Cool kids get braces with Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij!

2011-08-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies such as SureSmile and the Damon System, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.
Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Why do you choose Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij?

2011-07-25T12:07:00.000-07:00

Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij, serving Buffalo Grove, Grayslake and surrounding areas, strive to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

Share your story with the world!

Buffalo Grove:
Grayslake:
Just select one of the "Review us on Google Places" buttons above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,
The team at Forever Smiles

Orthodontic Emergency Care with Forever Smiles

2011-07-22T13:24:00.000-07:00

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur we are available to you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can't take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment with Drs. Razdolsky and Vij.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with Forever Smiles.

The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:
Poking Wire: Using a pencil eraser, push the poking wire down or place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band: If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Wire: Using a tweezers, try to place your wire back into place. If doing this and using wax does not help, as a last resort use a small fingernail clipper to clip the wire behind the last tooth to which it is securely fastened. If your discomfort continues, place wax on it.

Loose Appliance: If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

Headgear Does Not Fit: Sometimes headgear discomfort is caused by not wearing the headgear as instructed by your orthodontist. Please refer to the instructions provided by your orthodontist. If the facebow is bent, please call our office for assistance. Surprisingly, headgear becomes more comfortable the more it's worn, so be sure you’re getting in the prescribed hours.

General Soreness: When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth and teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with a warm salt water mouthwash. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously. If the tenderness is severe, take aspirin or whatever you normally take for headache or similar pain.

Remember, after alleviating your discomfort, it is still very important that you call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem.

Smile wider, live longer, from Forever Smiles

2011-07-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

Folks with big smiles may actually live longer than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij have known for quite some time that positive emotion has been linked to both physical and mental health, but researchers at the university did something quite interesting: they looked at photos of 230 ball-players who began their careers in baseball prior to 1950 and studied their smile intensity (ranging from big smile, no smile or partial smile). The players' smile ratings were compared with data from deaths that occurred from 2006 through 2009. The researchers then took into account other factors that impact life longevity, including body mass index, career length and even college attendance.

The results? Researchers found that players who weren't smiling in the photos died at the average age of 72.9 years. Players with partial smiles lived to be 75. Those with big smiles, however, lived on average to be 79.9 years old.

The take-away from the new study? Smile now, smile often and you might just live longer! Have you been perfecting your smile by visiting Forever Smiles on a regular basis? If not, give us a call!

Visualize your new smile with the Brace Painter!

2011-07-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

Braces at Forever Smiles are more fun than ever! With the Brace Painter, parents and children are able to “paint their braces,” and visualize how teeth will look with different colors of bands.

The Brace Painter allows for you to select different colors, and then assign those colors of bands to certain teeth. Now, you can visualize your braces before you even come in for your appointment!

As always, please let our team know if you have any questions about the Brace Painter, or your orthodontic treatment at Forever Smiles. Have a great week!

Dr. Razdolsky & Dr. Vij Ask: What are your 4th of July plans?

2011-07-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

This coming Monday, July 4th, is Independence Day and the United States of America will be turning 235 years old! It’s a day to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and also a time for every American to pay homage to our soldiers, past and present, who have placed themselves in harm’s way so that we may continue to enjoy our freedom.

Dr. Razdolsky & Dr. Vij and team will be celebrating this Monday and we would like to know, what are your plans for the 4th of July? Will you be out in the sun? Have you stocked up on fireworks? Are you going to grill up your favorite summer foods? Are you staying in town or heading somewhere else? If you have a 4th of July tradition, we would love to hear about it.

Whatever you plan to do, Forever Smiles hopes you have a fun and safe holiday! Feel free to upload your 4th of July photos to our Facebook page and let us know how your Independence Day turned out this year.

Stay Cool with a Braces-Friendly Summer Treat!

2011-06-23T17:57:00.001-07:00

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. And what’s better on a hot summer day than a delicious treat that will cool you down after doing something active in the summer sun? Luckily, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have just the thing, Watermelon Sorbet! You can find the complete recipe below:

Watermelon Sorbet

Ingredients
• ¾ cup water
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 2 to 3 cups watermelon, diced, no seeds or rind
Directions
In a small saucepan, heat the water, sugar, and lime juice on medium high for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Chill this “syrup” at least 20 minutes. In the meantime, place the watermelon chunks in a food processor or blender and liquefy them. Add the chilled syrup to the watermelon puree and blend. Freeze sorbet in an ice-cream maker according to manufacturer’s directions. Serve immediately.

Happy Summer!

- Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij and team

Smile! June is National Smile Month!

2011-06-17T13:37:00.000-07:00

According to the American Dental Association, a person's smile outranked eyes, hair and body as the most important physical feature, which is why it's important for our team at Forever Smiles to support National Smile Month this June.

Here are a few simple steps you can take to improve your oral health so that you may celebrate National Smile Month for many, many years to come:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Here's a helpful video showing you how to brush with your braces on.
* Floss every day to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Razdolsky & Vij.
* 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.

Forsus Emergency Care

2011-06-10T07:58:00.001-07:00

We've recently created a set of videos for emergency care of your Forsus appliance. Watch all three videos above, and please call our office if you have any questions!

Thank You,

Drs. Yan Razdolsky & Kapil Vij and the Forever Smiles Team

What’s on your summer reading list?

2011-06-03T17:46:00.000-07:00

With summer in full swing, some of us at Forever Smiles wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading during the summer is a vital step in brain development and warding off the dreaded “summer slide.” Plus, it's fun!

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR summer reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great summer reads? Ask us for suggestions, and our staff (and Drs. Razdolsky & Vij) would be happy to provide a few suggestions. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas or check out these summer reading ideas that we came across today, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your summer picks or your all-time favorites on our Facebook page!

Foods to Avoid During Your Orthodontic Treatment

2011-05-20T14:12:00.000-07:00

There are a variety of foods the Forever Smiles team wants you to avoid while you're wearing braces. Some foods can occasionally damage braces, but certain foods can bend the wires or even break the brackets on your braces. If you’re wearing braces, you should avoid starch, sugar and gummy foods, as these foods can be difficult to remove during brushing. Foods that are high in sugar and starch tend to cause plaque, cavities and even tooth decay.

Avoid tough meats, hard breads and raw vegetables such as carrots and celery. 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 you should avoid include:

• 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

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

If you have any questions on which foods you should be avoiding and why, we invite you to give our Buffalo Grove or Grayslake offices a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

Forever Smiles at the 2011 AAO Annual Session

2011-05-11T21:06:00.000-07:00

At Forever Smiles, we are very proud to serve so many families in Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, IL. Our greatest goal is to help you achieve a healthier, happier, more confident smile. Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij are both lifelong learners and spend countless hours every year to acquire and share the knowledge, skills, and expertise that directly benefits you, a member of our patient family.

One of the ways we provide a “complete” orthodontic treatment experience for our patients is by attending important seminars and conferences. One of these gatherings – the American Association of Orthodontists’ Annual Session in Chicago this weekend- is an educational event that is one of the largest orthodontic conventions in the world – and one that allows us to stay up-to-date on all the latest technologies and orthodontic treatment options available. This, in turn, allows us to give you, our wonderful patients, the best treatment experience possible. Our team will be attending the event this year, which runs from May 13th- 17th. We are excited to attend, and look forward to sharing news and photos from the event once we return!

What’s on your reading list?

2011-05-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Forever Smiles, we wanted to remind all our patients about the importance of reading. Sure it’s easy to keep putting off reading this time of year, but reading is a vital step in brain development and literacy. And if you needed any more reason to read, May marks “Get Caught Reading Month.”

Today, we thought we’d ask: What's on YOUR reading list? What are some of your all-time favorites? Out of ideas for great reads? Ask us for suggestions, and Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij and our team would be happy to provide a few. You may also ask a local librarian for some ideas on what to read next!

Happy reading! Be sure to share with us your book picks or your all-time favorite novels or literature on our Facebook page!

At Forever Smiles, what puts you at ease?

2011-04-28T06:32:00.001-07:00

Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij and team understand not everyone enjoys visiting 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 our Buffalo Grove & Grayslake offices that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or doctors?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Taking steps to reduce our environmental impact

2011-04-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

We are living in an age with a renewed commitment to conservation, and are frequently reminded to recycle, reduce and reuse. Earth Day is this Friday, April 22nd, and we thought this would a great time to discuss the things that Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij & team do to conserve our natural resources and the environment.

Did you know that we offer patients account access 24 hours a day, seven days a week? Our office has convenient and secure online services with our secure patient login system. You can view all of your account information, and even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages. Since this information is submitted electronically, we eliminate the use of large amounts of paper and printing materials.

Our team would love to hear how you minimize your impact on the environment. Leave us a comment below or you can also visit our Facebook page and post something on our wall.

Happy Earth Day!

Flossing with Braces 101

2011-04-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

Our team will tell you that keeping your teeth clean is more important than ever when you have braces. Food bits have more spots than usual to hide in your mouth, so you must be diligent in order to avoid bad breath, swollen gums, discolored teeth and cavities. If you remove plaque regularly during treatment, you'll experience better results and could possibly reduce your treatment time.

Here is a very concise video explaining the proper way to floss your teeth with braces. Give Forever Smiles a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

April is National Facial Protection Month

2011-04-08T06:02:00.001-07:00

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Buffalo Grove and Grayslake, IL will once again pick up the ball, bring the bat out of seasonal retirement, and lace up their cleats to hit the fields for the return of spring sports! April is National Facial Protection Month, and during this time, Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij and our dedicated team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. 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.

Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this spring, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact us at . Stay safe and have fun!

Now that I have braces, what can I eat?

2011-04-01T07:19:00.000-07:00

You just got braces at Forever Smiles and we have 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.

Enjoy!

-Your friends at Forever Smiles

All the cool kids do it!

2011-03-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

Braces today are “cool” and—many would say—even “fun.” These were among the findings of a 2010 nationwide survey of moms whose children are going through or have had orthodontic treatment. New technologies, advanced computer software, color options, and even popular celebrities—Tom Cruise, Dakota Fanning, Danny Glover, Serena Williams—sporting stylish braces are making orthodontic treatment more comfortable, fashionable and cool for today’s teens.

The study, conducted on behalf of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists for February’s National Children’s Dental Health Month, found 86 percent of moms reporting that braces are cooler today than when they were children. Sixty-nine percent of moms also said wearing braces makes their children feel cool, and 81 percent reported their children’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Different color options and the ability to change colors, for example, provide exciting ways for young patients to customize appearances. That enthusiasm helps them to feel good about their orthodontic treatment with us, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

Has your child or teen visited for a consultation? If not, please give us a call and let us help your child begin the journey to a gorgeous smile!

Why is it so important to have straight teeth?

2011-03-16T16:47:00.001-07:00

Some people wonder why Buffalo Grove and Grayslake Orthodontists Drs. Razdolsky & Vij and our team work tirelessly 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, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Drs. Razdolsky & Vij can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment.

What Will YOUR Smile Look Like After Orthodontic Treatment?

2011-03-11T12:31:00.001-08:00

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. We at Forever Smiles love to see our patients’ smiles light up when they see their new smile in the mirror for the first time. For those of you who haven’t yet started or finished your orthodontic treatment, have you ever wondered what your new smile might look like after treatment?

The American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO for short, has recently launched a new tool called “Virtual Smiles”, which shows what your smile might look like after orthodontic treatment. Using the tool will also earn you a free orthodontic consultation coupon, which can be redeemed at West Chester Orthodontics by yourself, a family member or friend.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call us to get started on improving your smile today!

Celebrities get braces, too!

2011-03-04T15:58:00.000-08:00

Did you know that back in 2002, Tom Cruise had braces? During this time, he was 40 years old and filmed Minority Report, Austin Powers in Goldmember and the Last Samurai. Check out his smile in Jerry Maguire, Rain Man or The Firm and compare to the post-braces Tom Cruise in Valkyrie or Tropic Thunder. The fact is, movie stars need to look their best for the silver screen, and it wouldn't be possible without orthodontists like Drs. Razdolsky & Vij.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces with braces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give us a call!

Connect with the Braces Brigade!

2011-02-25T13:56:00.000-08:00

At Forever Smiles in Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, IL, our patients want to get as much out of their treatment as possible. That includes asking a lot of questions and making sure they take care of both their appliances and oral health.

Would you like to learn more about what to expect during orthodontic treatment, from someone with firsthand experience? Well, our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recently developed the Braces Brigade blog, where past, present, as well as future orthodontic patients from coast to coast document their (or their child’s) orthodontic journeys. The blog will serve as a source of guidance for others as the patients undergo orthodontic care.

Our team encourages you to visit the Braces Brigade blog to read these great and informative blogs—who knows, maybe you’ll learn a thing or two! As always, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about the Braces Brigade or your own orthodontic treatment with Drs. Razdolsky & Vij!

Don't Forget- Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned by a Dentist

2011-02-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

Floss Daily for Good Oral Hygiene

There is a special way that you can floss while you have braces for good oral hygiene. Many times, people are tempted to skip the flossing during braces because it can be a little intimidating and difficult.

Flossing while you have braces is very important. It can prevent your gums from swelling over the braces themselves. If you have forgotten the flossing technique please visit our website for more information.

Don't Forget- Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned by a Dentist
Dental cleaning is important for good oral hygiene when in braces. It prevents cavities from forming under the braces. With poor oral hygiene you can end up with yellow spots or even cavities after braces are removed. It is imperative that you visit your dentist every six month for dental cleanings while you are in braces. Call us if you have any questions!

Brush Teeth More Often with Braces for Good Oral Hygiene

Food is more likely to get lodged in brackets and other ortho appliances. Please brush your teeth more often during orthodontic treatment.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month!

2011-02-04T14:26:00.001-08:00

One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That why the Forever Smiles team thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be a great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
2. Wear a helmet
3. Wear protective eyewear
4. Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
5. Be alert, even as a spectator

We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our Grayslake or Buffalo Grove offices. Stay safe and have fun!

Congratulations to our On Time Contest Winners

2011-01-27T11:29:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to December's On Time Contest Winners, Megan H. from our Buffalo Grove office and Adina C. for our Grayslake office. We invite you both to please choose your Prize from our gift display! Stay tuned for next month when we pick the next round of winners!

January Community Service in Grayslake & Buffalo Grove IL

2011-01-20T14:32:00.000-08:00

We are proud sponsors of local sports teams in Grayslake, Buffalo Grove and surrounding communities. Some of the teams we sponsor include:

-Warren Wave Girls Travel Softball team

-Mundelein Mustang Swim Club

-Vernon Hills High School Basketball

-The Blue Devil Travelers 12U Blue Team

Congratulation to them all!

Never Too Old to Treat Yourself to a New Smile - Is This Your Year?

2011-01-14T10:34:00.000-08:00

Did you know one in every five orthodontic patients is an adult? We’re living longer and technology is improving, making orthodontic treatment an appealing and safe option for patients of all ages. As the trend toward treatment later in life grows, we’re seeing braces on parents as well as children – and even adult celebrities such as Tom Cruise, Gwen Stefani and Nicholas Cage have shown off their braces. It’s never too late to look and feel your best!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it is never too late to address issues such as an overbite or underbite, crooked or crowded teeth, or jaw disorders.

How Do I Get Started?

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, we’ll make a consultation appointment with you. During this meeting we will perform a general assessment of your oral health, discuss options for treatment, and answer any questions you may have. We will also discuss matters of cost and insurance. The next step is an orthodontic records appointment in which we take x-rays, photos, and an impression of your teeth. This information drives your unique treatment plan.

What Are the Benefits?

Straightening your teeth can improve your smile, your self-esteem, and your dental health. Technologically advanced new treatments make it easier to identify the option that best fits your lifestyle. Modern techniques and materials have made braces and aligners more effective, comfortable and unobtrusive than ever.

If you think you might benefit from orthodontic treatment, get in touch with us so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

General Dentist vs Orthodontist: What's the difference?

2011-01-07T13:57:00.000-08:00

We would like to start off by saying we have the highest respect for our fellow general dentist. We are often asked this question by our patients what's the difference between an orthodontist and a general dentist when it comes to performing orthodontic services. An orthodontist is a dentist, who after graduating from dental school, completes an additional 2-3 years full-time university based education in an accredited orthodontic residency program. By learning about the biology of tooth movement (orthodontics) and facial development (dentofacial orthopedics), orthodontists are specifically educated experts in dentistry to straighten teeth and to properly align jaws.

Orthodontists limit their practices to orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. This means that orthodontic treatment is what they do, and all they do. Many family dentists can legally do Invisalign or braces after taking a weekend or night courses. They do not have the breadth of knowledge to understand all the possible complications of treatment and offer all the best treatment options.

Crossword Puzzle Answers and On-Time Winners!

2010-12-29T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday celebration. In addition to well wishes for the New Year, we wanted to share the answers to our December Newsletter Crossword Puzzle, along with the On-Time winners for November.

Crossword Puzzle Answers
Across:

4- Brackets
6 - Invisalign
7- Expander
8- Buffalo Grove

Down:

1- Suresmile
2- Woodentokens
3- Retainer
5- Razdolsky

On-Time Winners for November
Congratulations to Alex K. for our Buffalo Grove Office and Nolan J. for our Grayslake Office. Please choose your Prize from our gift display!

Happy New Year from all of us at Forever Smiles!

Season's Greetings from Forever Smiles

2010-12-21T09:19:00.000-08:00

May you all have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season, From Dr. Razdolsky and Staff.

The office will be closed from December 23 through January 2nd, 2011. Please visit our website for any questions regarding handling orthodontic emergencies over the holiday season. Otherwise, Dr. Vij will be in on December 30th from 10-2pm for Emergencies only!

Community Service this Holiday Season

2010-12-17T11:19:00.000-08:00

At Forever Smiles our mission during the winter holiday season is to bring a smile to the face of an innocent child. In lieu of holiday gifts amongst the staff, we give to the children of Arden Shore. If you would like to be a part of this amazing experience please do so. We guarantee each child will greatly appreciate it.

Click here to learn more about Arden Shore

Seasons Greetings, from your friends at Forever Smiles!

Congratulation to the Pumpkin Winners!

2010-12-10T16:04:00.000-08:00

We would like to thank all of you for participating in Guessing the weight of the Pumpkin contest.

The Winner of the Gigantic pumpkin contest is Kamaren S. he guessed the true weight of (956 pounds)--Please come to our office to accept your $25 gift card to the Country Bumpkin Garden Center and a $25 gift card from Dr. Razdolsky.

The winner of the Buffalo Grove pumpkin contest is Sean T. he guessed the true weight of (204 pounds) Please come to our Buffalo Grove Office to accept your Electric Tooth Brush.

The Winner of the Grayslake pumpkin contest is Natalie L. she guessed the true weight of (142 pounds) Please come to our Grayslake Office to accept your Electric Tooth Brush.

Congratulations to you all and thanks again to each and everyone who participated in this contest!

Happy Thanksgiving, from Forever Smiles

2010-11-24T17:28:00.000-08:00

Drs. Razdolsky and Vij would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food.

We are very thankful for all of our patients and their families. We'd like to know, what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Distinguishing the myths and facts about orthodontics, from Forever Smiles

2010-11-19T18:39:00.000-08:00

Trust us when we say Drs. Razdolsky and Vij and our staff know there are quite a few myths about orthodontics (and orthodontists) floating around these days. But before you buy into those myths, we think you should get the facts! Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists set the record straight (no pun intended) and have provided some information that sheds some light on the myths and facts of orthodontics. We encourage you to check them out today!

If you have any questions about orthodontics or your treatment here at Forever Smiles, feel free to give us a call.

Relax! You're at Forever Smiles Orthodontics!

2010-11-12T17:01:00.000-08:00

What do you like to do to relax and unwind? Do you enjoy watching television or listening to your iPod? How about playing PlayStation and other video games? What about eating a yummy fresh baked cookie? Well at Forever Smiles, Dr. Razdolsky makes sure that while you are here in the office, you can enjoy all of these fun things and more!

We have televisions over each treatment station for you to just sit back, relax and watch a movie. Some of our patients enjoy listening to their iPods while at the appointment, and some have even won their iPods from us! If you are early to your appointment, or are waiting for someone to finish, you can enjoy our state-of-the-art game room. We always have cool contests for our patients, friends and family members to participate in, and our prizes are always the best! Did you know that right now in our Grayslake office we have the largest pumpkin in Illinois? Anyone can come in and make a guess to win an awesome prize! Don’t forget to grab one of our fresh baked cookies after each appointment. Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone!

Dr. Razdolsky and his entire team at Forever Smiles want to do everything they can to make sure you have fun and are relaxed at each and every appointment. What a cool place to hang out!

The Largest Pumpkin in Illinois

2010-11-05T10:31:00.000-07:00

Check out a few of the videos we took of the delivery of the giant pumpkin to our Grayslake office!

Can YOU Guess the Weight of the Pumpkin?

2010-10-29T16:04:00.000-07:00

Check out a few more newspaper photos of the great Halloween pumpkin. the top is of Lucy and Gay setting up the sign outside our Grayslake office. The bottom photo is of Anna and Dr. Razdolsky. Don't forget to guess the weight for a chance to win a gift certificate! Here's a hint- the weight is between 500 and 1,500 pounds!

Guess the Weight of the Biggest Pumpkin in Illinois

2010-10-20T08:59:00.000-07:00

Dr. Yan Razdolsky and his Forever Smiles Team welcome the arrival of The Great Halloween Pumpkin.

It has found home at 1275 East Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, Illinois.

Everyone is invited to celebrate this with us by guessing the Weight of the Pumpkin.

The winner will get a $25 Gift Certificate to the Country Pumpkin Garden Center and a $25 Gift Card of your choice from Dr. Yan Razdolsky.

Entry must be submitted by November 15, 2010. Please drop it off to any of our location or email to pumpkin@razdolsky.com

The Great Halloween Pumpkin has Arrived!

2010-10-13T15:44:00.000-07:00

Forever Smiles, the orthodontic practice of Dr. Yan Razdolsky welcomes the arrival of
the great Halloween pumpkin on Thursday, October 14th at 1:00 p.m. Forever Smiles is located at 1275 E. Belvidere Rd. in Grayslake (just east of S. Atkinson and Belvidere Rd.)

The Great Halloween Pumpkin was grown by Russell Stokes of Bohners Lake, Wisconsin and will be delivered by the Country Bumpkin Garden Center, Mundelein. The Country Bumpkin has been a local purveyor of giant pumpkins for 25 years at it's annual PumpkinFest, which often top the scales at over 500 pounds. The event continues through October and includes guessing the weight of the pumpkin and a prize package containing gift certificates from local businesses. For more information, contact Forever Smiles at 847-548-4200.

Candy Buyback Program and the National Orthodontic Health Month

2010-10-11T09:40:00.000-07:00

October symbolizes the transition into the Fall season and of course, Halloween! For our team at Forever Smiles, the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), and orthodontic patients around the country, October also marks the National Orthodontic Health Month. This month is a great time to remind patients of the importance of strong oral hygiene and a braces-friendly diet, especially since many of the sticky and sweet Halloween treats can be harmful to braces and other orthodontic appliances.Get the facts about Halloween candy and orthodontics by asking us! You can also learn more on the AAO’s National Orthodontic Health Month website.

In addition, our famous candy buy back event is once again rolling. Every year Dr. Razdolsky buys back all the candies you gathered during the Halloween day and trade them with dollar equivalency. For every pound of candy that you donate to our office from trick or treating , we will exchange it for a Dollar! This event will take effect right after the Halloween and ends on the last day of November 30th. Let us help you fight back cavities by bringing in your Halloween candies for cash!

"Kohl's Kids Who Care" Volunteer Regional Winner

2010-10-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

Every year, Kohl's recognizes and rewards young volunteers (ages 6-18) across the country for their amazing contributions to their communities. Winners were selected based on initiative, leadership, creativity and generosity.Last year Colin was recognized by his school for contributing school supplies to different school children in need. Colin founded "Colin’s Dream, Tools for Learning" to collect and buy school supplies with his own money for those in his school district who cannot afford them. Colin was awarded as the regional winner for his contribution to the community. Congratulations Colin and keep up the good work! If you would like to contribute to Colin's Dream school supplies collection please email mischelle_campbell@hotmail.com

Four New Orthodontic Videos Now On YouTube!

2010-09-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

To help inform our patients about the orthodontic appliances we use and how they work to improve your smile, we have included many educational videos on our YouTube Channel. You can always find them under the "Dolphin Aquarium" section of the Forever Smiles YouTube channel. Just today, we've added four new videos for your convenience. Check them out here on our blog, or head to our YouTube channel to watch them all!

Hope these help!

Regular checkups are essential in maintaining good oral health

2010-09-24T14:16:00.001-07:00

Are you brushing and flossing daily properly during your orthodontic treatment? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your general dentist every 3-to-6 months in addition to brushing your teeth and flossing (and visiting our office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Your general dentist can check for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, treat oral health problems early and show you how to properly brush and floss your teeth.

During an oral exam your dentist can 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, let us know during your next visit and we will provide a few great references in the greater Buffalo Grove and Grayslake areas!

The importance of retainers

2010-09-17T14:38:00.001-07:00

If you recently completed treatment at Forever Smiles of Buffalo Grove and Grayslake, IL, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, we will provide—or have 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 is the best insurance that the treatment improvements last for a lifetime. Here are some things to remember when you receive your retainers:

* Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise. Wearing your retainers at night ensures that your pearly whites won’t relapse.
* 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 only a small amount of toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water.
* When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case.
* Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken, give us a call immediately.
* Remove retainers when swimming or during any sporting activity in which the retainers could fall out and get broken or lost (cheerleading, basketball, etc.) or when you should be wearing a mouth guard (football, soccer, etc.).

We hope this helps! You can always contact our team if you have any questions!

What about Orthodontic Insurance?

2010-09-10T10:35:00.001-07:00

Insurance questions are some of the most common we receive. While your coverage depends on your plan, Forever Smiles Orthodontics will take care of all of the necessary insurance filings. Some dental insurance plans provide orthodontic benefits, others do not, but if you are eligible for orthodontic benefits, you should provide us with a claim form from your insurance company. Questions about it? Ask us, we will gladly assist you in completing it. We accept most insurance assignments.

Utilizing all of your resources when choosing to undergo orthodontic treatment is very important. Whether it be the practices website, calling and speaking with anyone on staff, or speaking to the doctors themselves. These are the best ways to answer all of your questions, and decide the best course of action. At Forever Smiles, Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij are not only interested in making sure you get that “perfect smile”, but also in making sure you understand exactly why it is important, too!

Orthodontics FAQ: Will braces hurt?

2010-08-31T14:52:00.000-07:00

Most prospective orthodontic patients are scared of the pain they have heard this treatment might cause. There are patients who are more sensitive and need some medication, at least in those first days, while others never have any pain through the treatment. Every patient and every treatment is different. The brackets are bonded right onto the tooth with special enamel glue. There is virtually no pain while the braces are being put on. We also encourage patients to go to our website at www.razdolsky.com and view other patient’s testimonials, watch videos and just familiarize themselves a little bit more with the whole process.

The bottom line: don't let fear of braces get in the way of a beautiful new smile! Schedule a consultation with us to learn all your options, and to get to know our doctors and staff!

How will keeping my smile healthy keep me healthy as a whole?

2010-08-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

At Forever Smiles, we understand that as a new patient or possible new patient, you have many general questions which need answered before you come to your first appointment. Being well informed makes you feel more comfortable coming to the office for the first time. We often get asked questions about how your teeth affect your overall health.

Sometimes, your teeth and your oral health get put on the back burner when we have a lot going on in our lives. People often tell themselves that because they brush everyday and there is no pain in their mouths, their teeth are fine. Many people are unaware of the fact that keeping your teeth healthy keeps you healthy! Oral health has an effect on many systems of the human body. If your mouth is not in a healthy state, chewing, digestion and all processes that follow can be negatively affected. Not taking care of your gums by brushing, flossing and seeing your dentist on a regular basis for cleanings, can lead to gum disease such as gingivitis. Bacteria can spread to the heart through blood stream.

The lesson? Brush and floss often, and visit your general dentist on a regular basis for a lifetime of healthy smiles!

Arden Shore Child and Family Services Fund Raiser

2010-08-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

We love to give back to the community. Just recently our entire staff participated in a fund raiser for Arden Shore Child and Family Services. We are honored to share letters and pictures with all of you. Check them out on our Facebook page!

Meet the Forever Smiles Orthodontics Team!

2010-08-10T09:26:00.000-07:00

Our entire team wants to make your experience at Forever Smiles Orthodontics a pleasant and enjoyable one. If you haven't had a chance to meet each member of our team, now is your chance! Check out the latest video we've made highlighting the folks who make it all happen at Forever Smiles Orthodontics of Grayslake & Buffalo Grove, IL!

Flossing Tips From Forever Smiles Orthodontics

2010-08-06T15:13:00.000-07:00

We all know the importance of brushing our teeth on a daily basis. Just as important, but sometimes forgotten, is flossing. Flossing on a daily basis is important for so many reasons; fighting gum disease, to prevent tooth decay, prevent halitosis (bad breath), to prevent tartar build-up, and also to reduce the risk of heart disease. We understand that the thought of flossing with braces or retainers in your mouth seems like a daunting task. That’s why, at Forever Smiles, Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij and the clinical staff always take the extra time to go over flossing techniques with patients and parents. In addition to the verbal instruction, a video on flossing techniques is shown and available for viewing anytime on our website.

Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij recommend a couple different devises to make flossing easier on your part. A floss threader guides the floss underneath wires and into difficult areas. A newer devise used for flossing with braces is called a Floss Fish. The Floss Fish uses regular dental floss and goes under the wire and between brackets so you can floss normally with braces on. We also recommend a Water Pik. Water Piks are useful along with brushing and flossing to effectively remove plaque and improve gum health.

Just remember, as challenging as it seems to floss with braces or retainers, it is extremely important to your overall health, and just one more thing you can do to make sure you stay smiling for years to come!

Ask the Patients: Why Did You Choose Dr. Razdolsky & Forever Smiles?

2010-07-29T13:48:00.001-07:00

Listen as several parents of patients describe their experience at Forever Smiles Orthodontics, a Buffalo Grove and Grayslake, IL based orthodontic practice. Learn more about Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij, and our team on our web site at razdolsky.com.

Buffalo Grove, Orthodontist Wraps Up Successful Continuing Education Seminar

2010-07-22T11:51:00.000-07:00

Buffalo Grove Orthodontist Dr. Yan Razdolsky recently held his eighth Annual Orthodontic Update Seminar at Maggiano’s Little Italy in Chicago.

About 130 dentists and dental hygienists attended the April 28 seminar accredited for continuing education credit through the American Academy of General Dentistry.

This year’s topics included information on efficient versus effective treatment, the fourth dimension in orthodontics, ICAT and SureSmile, temporary anchorage devices and lasers, interceptive techniques, interdisciplinary cases, distraction and Wilkodontics, and the lingual SureSmile technique.

The six-hour seminar helps dental professionals meet the 32 hours of continuing education credits they must obtain every two years, Razdolsky said.

Razdolsky offers the seminar as a means of educating general dentists on orthodontic issues. When Invisalign began marketing its product to general dentists, he knew the seminars could prove beneficial, said the Buffalo Grove braces expert.

In January 2009, the American Journal of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics published a University of Illinois study on the effectiveness of Invisalign. That study determined the mean accuracy of tooth movement using Invisalign was 41 percent, according to the article.

“Since this information came out in an orthodontic journal, dentists don’t see it,” said Razdolsky, who also is a Buffalo Grove Invisalign provider. “I feel like it’s my obligation to enlighten dentists and to stress the importance of at least establishing a diagnosis.

The seminar is designed to expose dentists to the new technology and treatment modalities that are available. The goal is to better prepare the dentists who offer orthodontic treatment in their office to know when the patient needs more than a few aligners and should be referred to a specialist, Razdolsky said.

Learn More
If you would like to learn more about Dr. Yan Razdolsky Buffalo Grove orthodontics practice, or next year’s Annual Orthodontic Update Seminar, please visit his website: http://www.razdolsky.com/. Dr. Razdolsky has two office locations: 600 W. Lake Cook Rd., Ste. 150, in Buffalo Grove; and 1275 E. Belvidere Rd., Ste. 100, in Grayslake. To schedule a complimentary consultation, call (224) 588-5019 in Buffalo Grove or (224) 757-0811 in Grayslake.

About Dr. Yan Razdolsky
Dr. Yan Razdolsky loves being an orthodontist because it provides an opportunity to set the standard of orthodontic care. He is quick to master the newest procedures, and his love for the work and his patients drives him to deliver results quickly and efficiently. His goal is to exceed expectations by stressing treatment over finances, educating patients and making everyone feel comfortable.

Dr. Razdolsky received his dental education at the University of Illinois Medical Center and earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1985. From there, he completed two additional years of residency and extensive training in orthodontics and orthodontic research at the University of Illinois Medical Center. Dr. Razdolsky is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.

He lectures throughout the United States and internationally and has served on numerous committees in dentistry and orthodontics to further dental science. He and his staff regularly participate in orthodontic, practice management and communication seminars to improve their skills and expand their services.

Dr. Razdolsky’s professional affiliations include the American and European Associations of Orthodontists, World Federation of Orthodontists, the Midwestern and Illinois State Societies of Orthodontists, the American Dental Society, the Illinois and Chicago Dental Societies, Academy of General Dentistry, and the Alpha Omega International Dental Fraternity.

He and his wife Anna have four children.

Drop Everything You are Doing and Smile!

2010-07-14T15:37:00.000-07:00

Do you have a big, toothy grin? If so, you probably aren't too unhappy with your smile. Studies show, that smiling makes you happier, and being happier about your teeth helps you smile more. Together, we make peoples lives better by giving them a better smile and a functional bite.

If you aren't comfortable smiling big, and certain types of braces have caused you problems in the past, you are in luck, because today's orthodontic techniques can turn your life around! For example, we have lingual braces, that are placed behind the teeth, so you can smile confidently even before your braces come off.

We are also pleased to offer the next generation of x-ray technology at Forever Smiles Orthodontics, the Cone Beam 3 dimensional x-ray. Being able to see your teeth, mouth and jaw from every angle allows us to improve diagnosis, resulting in better, more efficient treatment.

Want to learn more? Give either of our Grayslake or Buffalo Grove offices a call, or visit our web site!

Patient Testimonials at Forever Smiles

2010-07-07T15:38:00.001-07:00

Listen as several parents of patients describe their experience at Forever Smiles, a Buffalo Grove and Grayslake, IL based orthodontic practice. Learn more about Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij, and our team on our web site at razdolsky.com

Dr. Razdolsky wants to appear on Oprah’s show and needs your vote!

2010-06-28T15:55:00.000-07:00

Why do we need your vote?

The American Smile is revered around the world but the public knows very little about limitless possibilities of the science of Orthodontia and its technological breakthroughs that are creating these beautiful smiles in a fraction of the time. What were not possible 5-10 years ago is now a reality, not just for kids, but for adults of all ages.

It is our desire to create a public awareness television program dealing with the evidence based orthodontics of today. Parents and potential adult patients will want to know what are the possibilities for a better looking smile and a more functional bite which can be achieved with much less discomfort and shorter time.

Please view Dr. Razdolsky's video by clicking here, and vote for our video on Oprah’s site.

Thank you!!!!

National Smile Month at Forever Smiles

2010-06-25T14:59:00.000-07:00

What is the first thing you notice about someone? Is it their smile, eyes, maybe their body? Actually, according to the American Dental Association, a person’s smile outranked all of that as the most important physical feature. At Forever Smiles, Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij are committed to making your smile the first thing everyone notices! Now that we’re in June, we would like to remind all of our patients to smile wide! After all, June is National Smile Month, and a great time to promote good dental habits such as brushing, flossing and visiting the dentist, in addition to taking care of your braces. During the hot summer month drink plenty of water and take it easy on carbonated drinks.

Studies related to poor oral hygiene as a risk factor for infective endocarditis - related bacteremias were conducted by Peter Lockhart et al. showing that oral hygiene and gingival disease indexes were associated significantly with Infective Endocarditis(IE)-related bacteremia after toothbrushing. It is concluded that bacteremia after toothbrushing is associated with poor oral hygiene and gingival bleeding after toothbrushing. So, in plain english, improvements in oral hygiene may reduce the risk of developing IE. Questions? Give us a call, or check out our web site.

Happy National Smile Month!

Forever Smiles Wishing You A Happy National Smile Month

2010-06-16T16:03:00.001-07:00

It's June already! Where does the time go?

Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij, and team are excited to tell you June marks National Smile Month, a great 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:

* Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth and braces
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during orthodontic treatment.
* Visit your general dentist regularly (usually every six months apart).

If you have questions about any of the tips here, we encourage you to give us a call!

--Forever Smiles, Orthodontics in Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, IL

What Makes Forever Smiles Different?

2010-06-11T13:32:00.000-07:00

Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij’s mission at Forever Smiles is to provide the most efficient and effective orthodontic care in a fun environment and to treat patients with Dignity and Respect. Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij, and our Forever Smiles Staff are always in direct communication with all of our patient’s dental professionals to make sure that everyone receives superior treatment. Communication is also important between the patients, parents, Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij. From the highly trained and educated assistants, treatment coordinators and our administrative staff, everyone is here to help and to guide you along your way through your treatment.

Patients, parents and family members should never hesitate to ask questions and make sure they understand each step along the way. Each appointment is an important step, and we want to make sure that it is always a fun and enjoyable experience. At Forever Smiles, whether you are a patient, or if you are waiting for a patient to finish his(her) appointment, there is always something for you to do. From the arcade to our Internet Café, you will never be bored in our office. If you get hungry while you are here, you can always grab one of our freshly baked cookies or even take one for later! You can even brush your teeth when you are finished at our convenient tooth brushing station where we always have extra tooth brushes, toothpaste, floss and mouth wash for your convenience.

We offer fun and exciting contests for each and every patient in our office. Every time a patient comes to an appointment, there are ways to win prizes! Patients and family members can also keep up with our contests and winners on our website and Facebook pages. We have videos of different appliances and procedures that we use in our offices, available on our website, our Facebook and our YouTube pages. This is a great way for patients and parents to educate themselves and to use as a forum to chat with other patients on different treatment.

Remember, each appointment during your treatment is important. It is our job to make sure that our mission, to provide the most efficient and effective orthodontic care in a fun environment and to treat patients with Dignity and Respect, is met each time you come to our office. Keeping you happy and of course, always smiling, along the way!

Going Green at Forever Smiles

2010-06-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

Dr. Razdolsky’s Orthodontic Practice, Forever Smiles, has been taking the steps needed in making both offices more environmentally-friendly. Dr. Razdolsky decided to go Digital and Chartless over 8 years ago. All of the x-ray machines are digital, resulting in the lowest radiation possible, going out in the sun for a day would expose you to more radiation then our digital x-ray machines. We have also incorporated an ICat 3D Cone Beam technology into our practice 2 years ago. The ICat takes a digital 3D x-ray of your entire skull thus tremendously improving the diagnosis. A study was done by the Radiation Department at the University of Michigan which found that a regular Medical CT scan gives off 1200-3300 uSv, but a 10 second ICat Scan only gives off 34 uSv.

Both of our offices use a scanning system and a dedicated server to save all documents directly into the database which is available for viewing by patients or their family dentists on-line. We also use a paper shredding service that is 100% recycled.

Our website is a wonderful resource which provides useful information resulting in less printed educational pamphlets. Patients coming to the office for their initial orthodontic consultation can also complete the forms needed for their first visit on-line. There are many educational videos on the website and information about the upcoming events to keep our patients 100% informed.

Dr. Razdolsky and Dr. Vij are making a commitment everyday with their entire staff, to conservation. They will continue to find ways to recycle, reduce and reuse everyday to preserve our planet and its resources, so you can keep on smiling for years to come!

Summer Orthodontic Safety Tips, from Forever Smiles

2010-05-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

Summertime is almost here! It’s time for camp, sports and lots of fun activities outside. Just remember some of these important tips for you and your braces!

1. If you need to wear a mouth guard for sports while in braces, just make sure that it’s not a custom fit mouth guard, you do not want to restrict the tooth movement. We can provide you a “one-size-fits-all” guard.

2. If you wear Invisalign aligners, you should still wear a mouth guard for sports. The Invisalign aligners will not work as well as a mouth guard to protect your teeth during sports.

3. Along with sports and activities in summer there is also the food. Who could imagine having a BBQ without corn on the cob, right?!?! You can still enjoy your corn, just cut the corn off of the cob first and then enjoy! Apples are another one that you will want to be careful with. Avoid biting into the apple, whole. Try cutting it into little pieces and enjoying it that way. Another item you will want to avoid will be ice. Cubes of ice are SO tempting when it’s hot and humid out, but biting into that cube could break a bracket right off.

4. If you are hit in the mouth, and a tooth gets knocked out, place the tooth in the vestibule of your mouth and call us right away. Either Dr. Vij or Dr. Razdolsky will see you even if it is on a weekend when the office is closed. You should also contact your dentist ASAP for him(her) to rule out tooth fracture. If your teeth are chipped or broken your dentist will discuss bonding procedure or a veneer.

5. Sports drinks are bad for your teeth and contribute to decalcification(softening of the enamel). Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your teeth healthy.

Just remember, caring for your braces is only temporary, but your new, beautiful smile will last a lifetime!

-From Drs. Razdolsky, Vij, and the Forever Smiles Team of Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, IL

Wii Have A Winner!

2010-05-21T10:12:00.000-07:00

At Forever Smiles, Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij and the team consider referrals to be the highest compliment we could receive from our patients. So every few months, we hold a referral drawing contest for patients to win a Nintendo Wii! A winner has been drawn for the latest referral contest, congratulations Emily!

Do you want to be like Emily? Simply refer a friend to Dr.Razdolsky’s Orthodontic Office in Buffalo Grove or Grayslake and you can be entered in our next drawing which will take place in November.

The Forever Smiles On-Time Contest Winners

2010-05-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our March winners, Kayla of the Buffalo Grove office, and Nicole of the Grayslake office. They each have received a $10.00 gift card just for being on time!

To participate, just save your appointment slip and have a front desk coordinator initial that you were on-time and enter it in the drawing box slot. When you're on time for your appointment, we will do our very best to be on-time for you!

Spring Cleaning: Time to Turn In Your Nickels!

2010-05-07T13:33:00.001-07:00

Spring is here, are we ready for the cleaning? Well, as you go through the cleaning many of you may come across some wooden nickels floating around the corner of the house. This is the greatest time to turn in your wooden nickels and claim your prizes in the office. Many items are only 20 wooden nickels each, including Stone Washed T-Shirts, Sugar Lips Tank Tops, Water Bottles, Mugs, 5-Prong Highlighter, and others. You can enjoy them by redeeming your tokens or points. These items are exhibited in our show cases in both offices. Please talk to any of our administrative staff if you need any help.

-Forever Smiles of Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, IL

Ask Forever Smiles: Am I too old for braces?

2010-04-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

Who’s afraid of “metal mouth” and the appearance of braces? Not adults, apparently. Recently, our staff at Forever Smiles read a fascinating statistic: the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! Yes, braces help make your pearly whites strong, healthy and perfectly-aligned, but perhaps another reason for the spike in adult braces is this: 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 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 Forever Smiles of Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, IL 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, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

This Earth Day, what are you up to?

2010-04-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

Earth Day, designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment, marks its 40th anniversary today. Earth Day was founded by U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson on April 22, 1970 and is observed every April 22nd on virtually every country on Earth.

Whether lending a helping hand to plant trees or getting out to volunteer in the Grayslake and Buffalo Grove communities, today is your opportunity to get started in making your impact year-round. Tell us, what are you up to? Are you making a difference today? How long have you participated in helping our planet? You may reply here or on our Facebook fan page!

Happy Earth Day, from Forever Smiles!

Drs. Razdolsky & Vij, Helping Kids Want to Smile

2010-04-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

Ask any child with less-than-perfect teeth about teasing and nicknames and you'll no doubt hear a sad story. We hear them every day – Goofy, Bugs Bunny, Fang. Some fun. There is real substance to such a child's social pain.

One study on childhood harassment found that misaligned or protruding teeth were the single most common target of name-calling among children. Further, children with orthodontic problems are more subject to bullying than their luckier peers.

We've all experienced the hostility of childhood epithets – it's part of growing up. But for some of us, the bad memories don't "go away." Early and persistent humiliation can become an adult's psychological baggage.

Part of our task as orthodontists is a social one. We know how a child with a problem bite feels. And we know that it's a preventable situation. We have the means to correct every "bad bite" out there – and with it, the social brutality so devastating to young self-esteem.

We want every child in our community to have the advantages of a normal, healthy countenance. Orthodontic evaluation is the first step. Call us for a consultation. The payback for your child lasts a lifetime.

--Forever Smiles, Drs. Razdolsky and Vij of Buffalo Grove & Grayslake, IL

Presentation to the Polish American Dental Society

2010-04-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

This February, Dr. Razdolsky gave a presentation at the Polish American Dental Society Meeting. The speech was very well received by the study group, and as Dr. Dorothy Anasinski, a fellow member of the group put it, “Everyone was captivated with the high tech orthodontics Dr. Razdolsky presented!” Enjoy the photos we have shared here and on Facebook, and be sure to leave us a comment!

A Head Start for Healthy Smiles

2010-04-02T14:58:00.000-07:00

After evaluating your child, Dr. Razdolsky may simply want to check your child periodically while the permanent teeth are erupting and the jaws and face continue to grow. However, if your child has a problem that requires attention, Dr. Razdolsky may recommend interceptive treatment. An early intervention takes advantage of facial growth and tooth eruption that can lessen the severity of a problem and frequently makes the completion of treatment at a later age less time-consuming and without extractions.

An interceptive treatment may be beneficial in:
* Avoiding fracture or loss of protruding teeth
* Assuring that the jaws and teeth meet properly during chewing and swallowing
* Eliminating adverse habits such as thumb-finger sucking, tongue thrusting and lip habits
* Correcting early alignment of teeth
* Enhancing proper speech development
* Evaluating breathing problems that may adversely affect normal growth and jaw shape
* Correcting crossbite, tooth grinding, tooth interference and lower jaw displacement
* Coordinating the extraction of primary (baby) teeth with the family dentist and allowing for proper eruption of permanent teeth
* Improving self-image

Orthodontic problems left unattended can adversely affect a child's speech, general health and self-esteem. A child's self confidence almost always increases when his or her smile is improved. An impact which should not be underestimated!

Dr. Razdolsky at the World Federation of Orthodontists Meeting

2010-03-16T16:02:00.000-07:00

In February, Dr. Razdolsky attended the World Federation of Orthodontists Meeting in Sydney, Australia to continue his passion of ever continuing his high standard in bringing beautiful smiles to his patients. It is no doubt that Dr. Razdolsky keeps his staff on their toes with many new technologies and exciting educational updates to achieve the highest quality of standards to his patients. Dr. Razdolsky and staff are committed to deliver their mission statement to provide "The most Efficient and Effective orthodontic care in a fun environment".

Call either of our convenient offices located in Grayslake and Buffalo Grove, Illinois to learn more, or visit our web site!

A Patient Testimonial for Dr. Razdolsky

2010-03-12T16:35:00.000-08:00

Dear Dr Razdolsky,

I want to thank you for everything you have done for me. My teeth look great and I get compliments on them all the time. I appreciate all the EXTRA efforts you and your wonderful staff have done for me. I am sending you some pictures of my friends and I after I got the braces off and the implant and crown placed. I am smiling so much more now. I will continue to highly recommend you as an orthodontist to many people. I wish you much health, wealth, happiness, and continued success. You are truly an amazing orthodontist and I just wanted to remind you of that. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Sidrah A.

What’s so special about an Orthodontist?

2010-03-05T15:53:00.000-08:00

"Dentists, Orthodontists, they're all the same right?" We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist Drs. Razdolsky and Vij started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, both doctors decided they wanted to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So each stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics; which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.

Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).

Isn't it nice to know there's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?

Go Incognito!

2010-02-26T16:36:00.000-08:00

We understand many orthodontic patients have an aversion to the idea of “metal mouth” during treatment. A lot of patients have found alternatives to the classic bracing system, instead choosing to strengthen their pearly whites with iBraces/Incognito, lingual orthodontic braces that are made for teens and adults, and are custom-made for each person. Because they are placed behind your teeth, they are hidden, and no one will ever know you are wearing braces unless you tell them.

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, or would like to know more about Incognito, please visit our web site or contact Forever Smiles today!

-- Dr. Razdolsky, Dr. Vij

What are patients saying about Forever Smiles?

2010-02-19T16:06:00.000-08:00

Drs. Razdolsky and Vij, as well as our entire team, love getting patient reviews. And lately, Forever Smiles, serving Grayslake, Buffalo Grove and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! We thought we'd share some with you today! Please feel free to contribute your own thoughts about our office and enjoy your weekend!

"Dr. Razdolsky is very personable. I love the appearance of the office and the added features such as the television and the internet access. The office is run quickly and efficiently. Everyone is very friendly." ~ Anthony L.

"Dr. Razdolsky is friendly and so patient with both me and my son. He understands how Kyle feels about his teeth and shows compassion and empathy.I feel very lucky and fortunate to be working with him." ~ Kyle's mother

"Very nice to deal with, they really do care about your teeth and were very helpful in trying to find a payment plan that worked for me. Procedure was actually painless, loved it! plan on bringing my children to Dr. Razdolsky for sure." ~ Gina D.

"Dr. Razdolsky is understanding and genuinely cares about his patients. I have a special case with a missing tooth. He is kindhearted and wants to improve my smile. After my treatment with him, I know my implant will look great. He always has a smile on his face and greets all his patients well. I am so fortunate to have him as orthodontist. I appreciate all the time and effort he has put into my difficult situation. He is knowledgeable and is not in the profession for the money. He truly cares. Thank you Dr. Razdolsky for all you patience and help." ~ Sidrah A.

Ask Drs. Razdolsky and Vij: Why is it important to have straight teeth?

2010-02-12T14:15:00.000-08:00

People have been wondering why Drs. Razdolsky and Vij work tirelessly 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! We recognize, however, that the decision to receive orthodontic treatment is personal; and at Forever Smiles, we promise to respect your decision by providing the most efficient, effective, and personal orthodontic care possible.

If you’re wondering whether your teeth might cause problems because they are out of alignment, please give us a call to set up a consultation. Drs. Razdolsky or Vij can help you decide whether or not you will benefit from orthodontic treatment at Forever Smiles.

Meet Our Orthodontists

2010-02-05T11:09:00.000-08:00

Dr. Yan Razdolsky lectures in the US and internationally and has numerous publications. He had served on many committees in dentistry and orthodontics to further dental science. Ever the continuing student, Dr. Razdolsky and his staff regularly participate in orthodontic, practice management, and communication seminars to improve their skills and expand their services.

Dr. Razdolsky’s inventions include five Razdolsky Distraction Osteogenesis Devices (ROD Appliance), which are used for horizontal and vertical bone growth in the jaw. He has received many accolades for his work all over the world.

When Dr. Razdolsky is not at the office, you could probably find him at one of his children’s hockey games, meets, or rooting for the Blackhawks if it’s hockey season! He and his wife, Anna, have 4 children that keep them very busy and very happy: 2 boys and 2 girls. His other interests are skiing and traveling.

Dr. Kapil Vij is originally from India and immigrated to the US at the age of 16. He attended Glenbrook South in Glenview where he graduated cum laude and was awarded first place overall and second place state science olympiad. Dr. Vij was awarded the Roger Adams Scholarship in Chemistry, Distinction in Research and a Deans List during his bachelor of science in Biology.

After receiving his BS in Biology with honors from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Dr. Vij continued into dental education at the University of Illinois (UIC), College of Dentistry. After earning the degree of Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) in 1999, he pursued a two-year residency and training in pediatric dentistry at UIC (2001). Dr. Vij completed his specialty training of Certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics in 2007 at Jacksonville University. He is currently on staff with UIC as Clinical Assistant Professor. Dr. Vij consistently demonstrates thoroughness and keen diagnostic acumen throughout all aspects of dental patient care. He continues his education by teaching residents at the University of Illinois, which keeps him challenged, which he particularly likes.

During dental school, Dr. Vij was the recipient of numerous academic awards. These awards include the prestigious status of distinctive awards such as the Oral Maxillofacial Radiology Award, American Society of Dentistry for Children Award, and the American Dental Association - Caulk/Dentsply Research Award.

When he is not working, Dr. Vij works out at the gym and plays soccer and tennis.