Great question! When you first come in for your initial consultation, we will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. We will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help us when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, the Doctor will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that we can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand the doctor’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Drs. Battistoni and Beam are sponsoring an Oak Park Park District's 100th anniversary event! We welcome all of our patients, family and friends to join us for a Summer Picnic in the Park on Sunday, July 15th, 2012 at Scoville Park in Oak Park.

Join us for:

• Old fashioned picnic – bring your blanket and picnic basket
• Live music for the whole family all day long
• Giant slide, obstacle course, trackless train
• 100th Anniversary cupcakes while they last
• Baggo tournament with cash prizes
• Root beer garden
• FREE photo booth provided by 312Photobooth.com

We will also be taking donations for the Food Pantry. The Food Pantry Requested Donation: PERSONAL HYGIENE ITEMS (razors, shampoo/conditioner, bar soap, moisturizers, etc...)

We look forward to seeing you all there!

The number one goal of orthodontic treatment is to give you or your child a good bite, meaning straight teeth that work well with the teeth in the opposite jaw. A good bite makes it easier for you to eat, chew, and speak. It can enhance your dental health and your overall health, and may well improve your self-esteem. As a part of your comprehensive dental health care plan, orthodontic treatment can help you retain you teeth—and your smile—for a lifetime.

Let your smile express yourself! Nothing can show the world how happy you are quite like a beautiful smile. In fact, it’s one of the first things others notice about you, too. With orthodontics, you can be proud to flash your smile, because you’ll know that your smile truly represents your positive attitude.

Make your mouth healthy! Straight teeth aren’t just pretty, they’re healthy as well. Teeth that are properly aligned are easier to clean, reducing the amount of plaque buildup and risk for gingivitis. The cleaner you keep your teeth, the longer they’ll last!

Feel free to live your life! Orthodontics is easier today than ever before, with treatment options that fit your lifestyle and schedule. From clear braces to removable aligners and totally invisible lingual (behind the teeth) braces, we can personalize your treatment to suit all your needs.

Spring is in the air! As you probably know, you can always connect with us on our Facebook page, but we invite you to please contact our office with any updates to phone numbers and addresses, so that we may be able to reach you.

We also encourage you to call us and let us know if you have any new phone numbers or if your contact information has changed!

Thank you! Have a great week!

Visiting your dentist during your orthodontic treatment will not only help keep your teeth and mouth healthy while you have braces, but will also help keep the rest of your body healthy. The fact is, every hour of every day in the U.S., someone dies of oral cancer, which is the sixth-most common diagnosed form of the disease. The five-year survival rate is only 50 percent, and oral cancer is one of the few cancers whose survival rate has not improved. Since April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month, we would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our patients about the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene while you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Your dentist is specifically trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent oral health problems. Please let us now if you have any questions about your oral health during your next adjustment appointment. Take care of your teeth!

Orthodontic treatment for adults is becoming more and more common. In fact, the number of adults getting braces has actually climbed 24 percent since 1996! More adults than ever are realizing that orthodontic treatment is not just for kids, and can help improve the aesthetics and health of a smile of any age! In society where appearance matters and can help make the difference between getting a job or a promotion, adults are choosing wisely to invest in orthodontic treatment.

Some of the most common reasons our adult patients come to us considering orthodontic treatment include:
• Teeth that are crowded or spaced apart, sometimes as a result of tooth decay or gum disease
• Pain or pressure from crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw
• A bad bite or malocclusion, causing teeth to fit together incorrectly

Most of all though, adult patients come to our office seeking a healthier mouth and a more confident smile! Orthodontic treatment at our office can be successful at any age, and adults especially can appreciate the benefits of a beautiful smile.

As an adult patient, we recognize that you have different needs than our younger patients, and we will work with you to ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.

If you’ve been thinking about getting that perfect smile, we would love to have you visit for a consultation. We understand you have a busy schedule, and will work with you to find a time that is convenient for you. Please visit our website or give our office a call to schedule your appointment today!

Rubber bands, or elastics, can be an integral aspect of orthodontic care, so if Dr. Richard Battistoni and Dr. William Beam have prescribed elastics as a part of your treatment, it’s important to follow the directions fully. Elastics help to align your bite or cause teeth to move in different directions and straighten more quickly. We will instruct you how to hook one end to an upper bracket and the other end to a lower bracket so the rubber band goes vertically or diagonally from one bracket to another. The tension of the rubber band produces pressure on the bracket, which causes the teeth to move and straighten. This tension is also sufficient to correct an overbite or an under bite in the jaw.

If rubber bands are a part of your treatment plan, there are a few things to keep in mind. With rubber bands, you won’t be able to open your mouth fully, so they will have to be removed when you eat and reapplied after meal time. Many times, rubber bands are only needed at night, so you won’t need to worry about eating with them. Also, if you try to open your mouth too wide, your rubber bands might snap – so be careful!

Failure to wear your elastics full time or as instructed can lengthen your treatment time and may make it more difficult to achieve an optimal result. But don’t worry; your time in elastics will be well worth it when you see your beautiful, new smile.

We will be rolling out our new Facebook Timeline page soon and would love for you to check it out!

You’ll find all the useful information that was there before, but now in a fun, new layout. When you Like us on Facebook, you’ll be able to check out photos of our office, find out about new events and contests, or you can even leave a note about how much you enjoyed your visit at our office. We love hearing your feedback to make our practice serve you and your family even better. To make life even easier, if you “Like” us on Facebook, you’ll automatically receive updates from our office right on your own news feed!

See you on Facebook!

When you visit Drs. Battistoni and Beam for your orthodontic consultation, you’ll probably have a lot of questions. We want you to be prepared for your appointment and feel in charge of your orthodontic treatment decisions, so keep these questions in mind to ask when you come in for your appointment:

• How long will I have to wear braces?
• Will getting braces hurt?
• Will I have to wear additional appliances to correct jaw problems while I have braces?
• What can I eat when I have braces?
• Are there certain things, like playing sports or playing an instrument, which I won’t be able to do?
• How can I make sure my teeth stay clean and healthy while I have braces?
• How often will I need to come in for appointments?
• How much will my orthodontic treatment cost?

Drs. Battistoni and Beam are here to answer all your questions and concerns, and we’re happy to explain all aspects of your treatment plan and expected outcome. Your orthodontic experience should be comfortable, hassle-free, and most importantly, leave you smiling!

Invisalign clear aligners can be a great option for improving the look of your smile. At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd., we have lots of experience using this technology to give our patients the straight, beautiful smile they’ve always wanted. Plus, because it’s so convenient, Invisalign won’t interfere with your daily life.

• Invisalign aligners are clear, discrete and effective at moving your teeth into their ideal positions.
• You don’t need to change your eating habits, because your aligners can be easily removed.
• Invisalign aligners are made of comfortable, smooth plastic, so you don’t have to worry about taking care of metal brackets.
• Invisalign aligners make daily oral hygiene easier, reducing the risk of possible problems.
• Invisalign treatment is covered by most insurance providers, just like traditional braces.

A straight smile makes you look great, but it also can help you keep the rest of your mouth healthy. Correctly aligned teeth can decrease health issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems, and increased wear on the tooth enamel.

Invisalign can be used by teens and adults, so whether you want to improve your own smile or need more information about your teen’s orthodontic options, contact our office to learn more.

Monday, Feb. 20 marks Presidents’ Day, a day known for celebrating of both George Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s combined Birthdays. Presidents’ Day was created in 1971, when President Richard Nixon combined the birthdays of two of our most well-known presidents into one single federal holiday. Presidents' Day also marks a hard-earned day off from work and school for a lot of our patients at Drs. Battistoni + Beam.

Here are a few fun facts about our nation’s presidents:

*Abraham Lincoln, our 16th president, carried letters, bills and notes in his tall stovepipe hat.

*George Washington is the first president to be featured on a postage stamp.

*Ronald Reagan, our 40th president, broke the so-called "20-year curse," in which every president elected in a year ending in zero died in office.

*Abraham Lincoln was the tallest of the U.S. presidents, measuring 6’ 4” tall.

*Virginia is the birthplace of more United States presidents than any other state, followed by Ohio and Massachusetts.

*Harry S. Truman was the first president to have his Inauguration and speeches televised.

Your smile is totally unique, so the time you’ll need to spend undergoing orthodontic treatment will also be unique. Generally, orthodontic treatment will take about two years, and this is for good reason. During this time, your teeth will slowly move into their desired positions, leaving you with a great smile with as little discomfort as possible. Rushing treatment can result in a less than perfect smile with a greater chance of tooth movement after your treatment is complete. At Drs. Battistoni + Beam, we don’t want to waste your time with treatment that won’t retain your smile for the rest of your life.

Of course, treatment time will vary depending on your specific situation. Very minor tooth movement may only take a few months to correct, while serious malocclusion (poor bite) may need more than two years to correct. Only Drs. Battistoni + Beam will be able to accurately estimate the time your treatment will take. But trust us—it’ll all be worth it in the end!

All of us at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. are excited to announce our upcoming contests in the office!

First, we have Drs. Battistoni and Beam's Lucky Lotto. All you have to do is pick 5 numbers from 1 to 100, and write it on a lottery card. On March 31, 2012 we will draw the lucky lotto numbers and a winner will be chosen. The prize is $50! Feeling lucky? If so, we encourage you to enter!

The American Dental Association is also currently hosting a coloring contest! We have the coloring page in our office for our patients to color. Entries must be submitted by Feb 29th, so don't delay in turning in your coloring pages to us! We look forward to seeing all of your great coloring skills!

If you have any questions about these contests, don't hesitate to ask us in the office or on Facebook. Good luck!

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride – fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.
• Antiseptic – an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.
• Combination – a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.
• Prescription – for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:
• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)

If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask us at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

–Drs. Battistoni + Beam

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam we make every effort to provide you with the best orthodontic treatment. For us that means achieving consistently great results. There are many things that help Drs. Battistoni & Beam do that. Some of them are:

1. Using the most up to date and proven technologies available
2. Spending time and resources on continuing education to stay current and relevant
3. Training our entire team on new techniques
4. Educating our patients about the pursuit of excellence

If you or a family member has been thinking about orthodontic treatment, please give us a call. We look forward to seeing you.

Great question!

If you are brushing and flossing daily during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam, we think 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. Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health, especially during orthodontic treatment.

Tooth decay, which is caused by sugars left in your mouth, can turn into an acid, which in turn can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay because adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines, combined with regular dental visits, help keep tooth decay away.

If you have any questions, please be sure to keep ask Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam or our team during your next adjustment appointment, or ask us on Facebook!

Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam and our team know having an attractive smile puts a spring in your step—or two—as well as increases your self-confidence, no matter if you’re 14 or in your late forties. Smiling not only makes people happy and puts them in a good mood, doing it often can even help you live longer, according to previous studies!

If you’ve been hiding your smile because you have crooked teeth or gaps between your teeth, it’s time to consider orthodontic treatment at Drs. Battistoni and Beam. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn how quickly and efficiently today’s most advanced correction techniques can straighten your smile!

Don’t hide your smile any longer—give us a call today to schedule yours or your child’s orthodontic consultation.

At the office of Drs. Battistoni and Beam, the New Year is a time to look back to the past, and more importantly, forward, to the coming year. Our wish is that our patients continue to keep their teeth healthy, as well as wear their rubber bands, headgear and appliances as prescribed during their treatment.

We look forward to meeting those patients who are planning to begin their orthodontic treatment this year—we think it's a great resolution!

Happy New Year from Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam and all of us at the office!

Many folks consider the beginning of a new year a time to not only reflect on the year that was, but also to set personal goals for the upcoming year. How are you planning to improve your health and happiness in 2012? Dr. Richard Battistoni & Dr. William Beam and our team recommend that you make a New Year’s resolution to benefit your oral health!

It is important that New Year’s resolutions are reasonable and attainable, and that they improve your overall quality of life—for example, did you know that flossing every day is the very best way to prevent periodontal, or gum, disease? Using a straw when drinking sugary beverages can also help prevent cavities. There are many small steps that you can take to prevent cavities, oral infections and bad breath.

Be sure to give us a call if you need a few suggestions on ways to improve your oral health, or visit this helpful article from our friends at the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). After all, we know your oral health is about more than just a beautiful smile.

Happy New Year!

With winter sports right around the corner, many patients here at orthodontic offices of Drs. Battistoni and Beam will once again pick up the ball, bring the cleats out of seasonal retirement and hit the fields and courts for the return of sports action! During this time, however, Dr. Richard Battistoni and William Beam and our team urge our young athletes to play it safe when out on the field. Here are a few ways to ensure your mouth’s safety this fall and winter, courtesy of our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists:

1. Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as basketball, wrestling and hockey
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! Drs. Battistoni and Beam and team will tell you 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 office or ask us on Facebook. Stay safe!

Don't forget about our current contest going on NOW until January 31, 2012 at the orthodontic offices of Drs. Battistoni and Beam! Simply write a story and draw a picture about how you have broken your brackets and enter it for a chance to win. All of the stories will be included in a book, but only 1 winner will be chosen. The winning drawing will be featured on the cover of the book! But wait! There's more...the winner will also receive $50.00!!

Stop by one of our offices to pick up an entry form! We can't wait to see all of your wonderful entries. Good luck and happy writing! If you have any questions about this contest or your orthodontic treatment, feel free to contact our office or ask us on Facebook.

We are also hosting a mitten, glove and hat donation drive in our office! Help those less fortunate stay warm this holiday season by bringing in mittens, gloves, and hats to your next appointment. Thank you in advance for your donations!

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam and our team thought we’d share this list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment at our La Grange or Oak Park, IL office.

How exactly does Invisalign work?
Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?
Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?
One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?
We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I shouldn’t eat while in treatment?
You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?
We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?
Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?
As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How do I clean my aligners?
The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit the office during treatment?
For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. We will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

If you have additional questions about the Invisalign treatment, please give our office a call.

All of us at the office of Drs. Battistoni and Beam are excited to announce our new office contest! We are asking the kids in our office to write a story and draw a picture about how they have broken their brackets. All of the stories will be included in a book, but we will choose one winner. The winning drawing will be featured on the cover of the book! But wait! There's more...they will also win $50.00!! The contest is running from November 1, 2011 until January 31, 2012.

Stop by one of our offices to pick up an entry form! We can't wait to see all of your wonderful entries. Good luck and happy writing! If you have any questions about this contest or your orthodontic treatment, feel free to contact our office or ask us on Facebook.

Drs. Battistoni and Beam are proud to partner with Community Support Services to conduct a Holiday Donation Drive. Community Support Services is a non-profit organization that works to improve the lives of over 600 children, adults and seniors with developmental disabilities and their families.

From now until January 31, 2012, we will be collecting donations of new mittens or gloves, hats and scarves in our La Grange and Oak Park, IL offices. Each office will have a drop off box for all donations. Please check out the Community Support Services website for more information about this amazing organization.

Thank you in advance for helping us support this wonderful cause. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at the office, or leave us a comment on Facebook!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam will be providing our patients with the opportunity to help raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation!

For every patient that chooses to wear pink elastic bands on their braces September 15th through October 31st, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will donate $1 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. We appreciate your consideration, and look forward to seeing everyone in pink elastic bands this month!

Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam and their team at the office would like to point you to a few interesting webisodes about orthodontics, located on the YouTube page of the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO.

There, they tend to post some very pertinent videos about orthodontic treatment, as well as state-of-the-art technology in orthodontia. These include "Orthodontic Treatment Basics," "Common Bite Problems Seen in Children" and "Does My Child Need Braces?"

We think you may find these webisodes interesting, as well as enlightening. If you have any questions about the videos, or your treatment here at the office of Drs. Battistoni and Beam, please give us a call.

At the offices of Drs. Richard Battistoni and William Beam, we know good dental health requires only a few minutes a day. We thought we’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your child’s smile between your adjustment visits with Drs. Battistoni and Beam.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health during your orthodontic treatment, as well as preventing gum disease. More care and time are needed to adequately brush your teeth when you are wearing braces. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please consult Dr. Battistoni or Dr. Beam if you would like us to review brushing techniques with you or your child. The use of a mechanical toothbrush such as a Sonicare or Oral B can aid in removing plaque around braces. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease has been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, we encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

We hope this helps! If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact our office or ask your general dentist during your next scheduled visit! Or, ask us on Facebook!

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call Drs. Richard Battistoni & William Beam. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps!

Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, serving Oak Park, La Grange and surrounding areas, strives to provide exceptional treatment in an informative and friendly environment. Have you had a great experience at our office?

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Thank you,
Drs. Battistoni & Beam

Drs. Battistoni and Beam want to know: Is dairy a major part of your diet? If not, it should be! A study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.

Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

If you recently completed treatment at Drs. Battistoni + Beam, we’d like to congratulate you! Now that your braces have been removed, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will provide—or has provided you—with retainers. After braces are removed, teeth can shift out of position if they are not stabilized. Retainers, however, always 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.

To learn more about the advantages of wearing retainers after your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Battistoni and Beam, please read this helpful article about retainers from KidsHealth or give us a call!

Join Drs. Battistoni and Beam the month of July to celebrate summer! All month long we will be celebrating with icy freeze pops and tons of prizes for our patients. Pull a toothbrush from our sand bucket and win a summer fun prize!

Don't forget to enter our July contest by submitting a summer fun photo as your entry. Go to our Facebook page and post a picture of you celebrating summer. We will randomly draw one lucky patient's name to win FOUR tickets to SIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA!

Also, don't forget to vote for our rocking chair featured in downtown La Grange. Vote for our chair, "Rockin Satisfaction", on the La Grange Business Association's Facebook page.

We can't wait to see you at your next appointment!

Summer is here! Kids and adults alike will now be spending more time outside being active and enjoying the hotter temperatures. 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!

-Drs. Battistoni & Beam and team

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 Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd 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. Battistoni and Beam.
* 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.

Have you voted for Drs. Battistoni & Beam's Rockin' "Satisfaction" chair yet? If not, you'll want to "like" the La Grange Business Association Facebook page and select "Poll" to vote for rocking chair #4. Thanks again to all of the students in Mrs. Spain's art class at McClure Jr. High for helping us paint our Rockin' "Satisfaction" chair. We hope it wins!

If you haven't already, Drs. Battistoni and Beam encourage all of our patients to check out our awesome rocking chair in downtown La Grange. Thank you to the students from Mrs. Spain's art class at McClure Jr. High for painting our rocking "Satisfaction" chair! Don't forget to vote for us on the La Grange Business Association website!

Thank you!

You just got braces at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd and Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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 Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd

Memorial Day weekend is a time when Americans everywhere stop and remember all those men and women who bravely gave their lives for our country.

Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start of summer 2011, and for many folks in La Grange and Oak Park, getting out of town for three days after being cooped up in the office or in the classroom means sweet, sweet relief. At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, we also know Memorial Day weekend is ripe for travel. After all, it’s a season of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed to a barbecue, a camping trip, hitting the great open roads or hanging out in your backyard this weekend, we want to know about it!

Have a nice and relaxing Memorial Day weekend!

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more physical activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant in this day and age, as kids everywhere are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well-being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your convenience. The guidelines call for children and teens to exercise for at least one hour each day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

With the school year close to winding down for a lot of our patients at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd., 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 Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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!

Drs. Battistoni and Beam are excited to announce that we have a new contest, "How Many Popcorn Kernels Are In The Jar?" We invite patients to take their guess at the number of popcorn kernels in our office jar for a chance to win a movie gift package. The contest will end June 30, so don't delay in submitting your entry.

Our doctors and team would also like to recognize and thank all of our patients for their support of the Chicago Honor Flight. We ended up raising $300!

Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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 Drs. Battistoni and Beam a call if you have more questions about flossing. Enjoy!

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 Battistoni + Beam Ltd does 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 Sesame 24-7™. Patients can 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.

Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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!

If you ever sustain damage to your braces and need to call Drs. Battistoni and Beam, we can help you more effectively if you can tell us exactly which piece is in trouble! Here’s a handy diagram and corresponding list of all the parts that make up your braces.

Elastic Tie: Tiny rubber band that fits around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Archwire: The main wire that acts as a track to guide the teeth along. It's changed periodically throughout treatment, as teeth move to their new positions.

Loop in Archwire: Frequently used for closing space left by an extraction. Many archwires don't have a loop.

Bracket: Small attachment that holds the archwire in place. Most often, a bracket is cemented directly onto the tooth's surface, eliminating the need for a band.

Headgear Tube: Round, hollow attachment on the back bands. The inner bow of the headgear fits into it.

Coil Spring: Fits between brackets and over archwire to open space between teeth.

Tie Wire: Fine wire that is twisted around the bracket to hold the archwire in place.

Band: A thin ring of metal fitted around a tooth and cemented in place. The band provides a way to attach the brackets to the tooth.

Hook: Welded or removable arm to which elastics (rubber bands) are attached.

Elastic (Rubber Band): Small rubber band that is hooked between different points on the appliance to provide pressure to move the teeth.

Hope this helps! Please give us a call if you have any questions!

With spring here, many children, teens and adults in Oak Park and La Grange, 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. Battistoni, Dr. Beam 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:

• Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
• Wear a helmet
• Wear protective eyewear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• 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 Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. Stay safe and have fun!

Now that it's finally spring, Drs. Battistoni and Beam are excited to introduce our "Who's Who at B+B" contest. We invite patients to try their luck at matching our staff members with their baby pictures.

To enter, simply stop by our Oak Park or La Grange office! We look forward to seeing you.

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 with Drs. Battistoni and Beam!

Can Braces Work for Adults?

People of all ages can benefit from orthodontic treatment with Drs. Battistoni and Beam. The physical process for moving teeth is the same, young or old, which means it’s 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, give Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. a call, so we may set up a consultation to determine what type of treatment best meets your needs.

It is sometimes hard to believe the transformation your smile undergoes during orthodontic treatment. Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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 with Drs. Battistoni and Beam, 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.

Check out the Virtual Smiles tool, and call Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. to get started on improving your smile today!

There are a variety of foods Drs. Battistoni and Beam want 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 Drs. Battistoni and Beam a call or ask our staff during your next visit.

When you first come in for your initial consultation, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will conduct a comprehensive examination to assess your oral health. This will better enable us to determine the best treatment method for you.

Your orthodontic evaluation will consist of an oral and facial examination to assess your oral health. Drs. Battistoni and Beam will have you take intraoral and facial photographs as well as panoramic and cephalometric X-rays to help determine the proper orthodontic treatment method. Then, an impression of your teeth and bite will be taken to construct a model of your mouth. (This will help our office when examining your diagnostic records).

At your second appointment, we will discuss your options with you. Our team feels it’s important to take the time to carefully examine your diagnostic records after your consultation so that we can more thoroughly prepare for your treatment at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. This additional preparation will ensure that you receive the best orthodontic care possible. At this time, we encourage you to ask us any questions you may have about your treatment.

If you are seeking orthodontic treatment for your child, our staff asks that both you and your child attend the initial consultation. We feel it is important that both you and your child completely understand Drs. Battistoni and Beam’s recommendations before we proceed with treatment.

Give us a call today and schedule a consultation! We look forward to hearing from you!

Drs. Battistoni and Beam invite all of our patients to join us in sponsoring the Lyons Township High School's Honor Flight Chicago. One of our patients is on the Lyons Township Student Council, and we are partnering with her to raise money for Honor Flight Chicago. The school needs to raise $50,000 to sponsor the WWII veterans' flight to Washington DC. We are very excited about this opportunity to honor and thank our nation's veterans.

We encourage patients to visit the Honor Flight Chicago website for more information. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to support the cause!

Thank you,

-The team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Trust us when we say Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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 Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd., feel free to give us a call.

We're very excited to announce that Dr. Beam was recently featured in an Orthodontic Products article. The article discusses Dr. Beam's beginnings as a rock 'n' roll star, and his pathway to becoming an orthodontist at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. Please check out this fun article, and let us know what you think of our very own "Doctor Rocker!"

Let’s face it: sports-related injuries are common among children, let alone teens with braces. In a recent survey, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, discovered that 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. But 67 percent admitted that their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when participating in organized sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer. That’s why Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd is helping spread the word that many facial sports injuries can be prevented simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards. Ask us—Drs. Battistoni and Beam will provide a mouth guard for any patient in active treatment. In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field this spring. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements Drs. Battistoni and Beam are trying to achieve.

Are you an aspiring artist, or at least someone who would love a new Netbook? If so, don't forget to enter Drs. Battistoni and Beam's Snowman Contest.

All patients may enter the Snowman Contest by posting a picture of an original, handcrafted snowman on our Facebook wall. Your contest entry can either be a picture that is painted or drawn, or a snowman that is built using a variety of mediums.

The contest winner will be selected based on creativity and originality. The last day to enter the Snowman Contest is next Monday, Jan 31, 2011, so don’t forget to submit your entry!

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd., 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 at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. encourage 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. Battistoni and Beam!

It’s that time of year to start thinking about protecting yourself and your family from the flu. Here are some simple steps you can take to help yourself avoid colds and the flu this season.

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

To promote a healthy and clean environment, Drs. Battistoni and Beam and our team give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Hope this helps and give us a call if you have any questions! Stay healthy!

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 Drs. Battistoni and Beam 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.

The year is almost over, so we wanted to ask what was memorable about 2010 for you, and what are you looking forward to in 2011? Do you have a new year's resolution, or any exciting plans for the coming year?

Have a safe and happy New Year, from Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd!

Winter is officially here, and with it comes not only the holiday season, but also sometimes unpredictable and inclement weather. This week, Drs. Battistoni and Beam and our team would like to share a few winter safety tips that we found on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website. These tips include everything from what to wear outdoors to tips for winter snow sports. Enjoy!

• Older babies and young children should generally be dressed in one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear in the same conditions
• Several thin clothing layers will keep an infant or child dry and warm. Warm boots, gloves, mittens, and a hat are necessities!
• A cold air humidifier, saline nose drops, and petrolatum will help a child that suffers from winter nosebleeds.
• It is important for children to wash their hands frequently, and to use the bend of their elbow if they need to sneeze or cough to prevent the spread of colds and flu.
• Never ski or snowboard alone. Adults should supervise young children participating in winter sports.
• When sledding, it is preferable to separate young children from older children, and to avoid crowded areas.
• The AAP recommends that children under age 16 not operate snowmobiles and that children under age 6 never ride on snowmobiles.

We hope that these tips help keep you and your loved ones stay safe and sound this winter season. Please give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Drs. Battistoni and Beam, your Oak Park and La Grange orthodontists, are excited to host a Snowman Contest for all our patients. This contest is an opportunity for our patients to put their creativity to the test, and maybe even win a Netbook!

To enter the Snowman Contest, simply post a picture of an original, handcrafted snowman on our Facebook wall! You must be a patient to enter the contest.

Here are the two contest entry categories:

1) Your snowman can be a picture that is painted or drawn using canvas, foam board, wood, poster board, or paper

2) You can build your snowman using styrofoam, clay, wood, papier-mâché, fabric, plastic bottles, yarn, cardboard or even SNOW!

Our team will select the contest winner based on creativity and originality. The last day to enter the Snowman Contest is Jan 31, 2011, so don’t delay in participating! Let it snow!

 
Have you seen this great video of Dr. Beam and The Unibrow Band performing? Let us know what you think!

Our doctors and team at Drs. Battisonti + Beam Ltd always try to give back to the community in some way, especially around the holiday season.

This year, our Oak Park and La Grange offices are collecting donations for charitable organizations. We invite our patients, parents and cooperating dental offices to help us to make the holidays a happier time for those in need.

Oak Park office: Sarah’s Inn
- New, unopened items for pantry and program needs
- Items for the Art Therapy Program

La Grange office: La Grange Community Nurse Health Association
- Items for babies and toddlers, children, and teens
- All donated items should be new, in original packaging with tags on

Donations may be dropped off in our Oak Park or La Grange offices, and members of our staff will be delivering the holiday donations to the designated organizations on December 15, 2010.

Thanks for helping us support these great community organizations!

Here at Drs. Battistoni+ Beam Ltd, we are very thankful for all of our amazing patients! Our doctor and team would like to wish everyone a fun and safe Thanksgiving. We also want to remind everyone to brush and floss after indulging in the big meal.

If you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to post them on our Facebook page or give us a call!

Our doctors and team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd are dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care, while developing meaningful relationships with our patients and within our community. Today, Darlene, your La Grange Orthodontic Assistant, would like to share a few of the reasons why she enjoys being an active part of our community.

One of the reasons why I like working at the La Grange office is because Downtown La Grange has many community events. One event that I really enjoy is the Annual Pet Parade, which gives exposure to all the local business in our area. During the parade, our team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd are able to spend time with our patients and their pets, while introducing ourselves to families in our community. We also attended the Rain Barrel auction, which attracted a large crowd of people and involved many local businesses and patients.

Downtown La Grange has a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. A few of my favorite restaurants are Chipotle, Q's BBQ, Blueberry Hill, Casa Margarita, Panera, and Noodles and Co. Each week, there are also many family-friendly entertainment events that are featured in our local paper.

At Drs. Battistoni and Beam, we enjoy supporting local organizations and helping the less fortunate families of our La Grange and Oak Park communities. Be sure to visit our Facebook page to learn about our recent fundraiser for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and our upcoming Holiday Donation Drive. Thanks for your support!

In the spirit of the upcoming holidays, the doctors and staff of Drs. Battistoni & Beam, Ltd. will be collecting donations for charitable organizations in the Oak Park and La Grange communities. We invite our patients, parents and cooperating dental offices to help us to make the holidays a happier time for those in need.

Our Oak Park office will be collecting donations for Sarah’s Inn in Oak Park. The mission of Sarah’s Inn is to stand with women and their families to ensure freedom from domestic violence in every community. The Sarah’s Inn Wish List currently includes new, unopened items for their pantry and program needs, as well as items for their Art Therapy Program.

We will be collecting donations at our La Grange office for the La Grange Community Nurse Health Association. The association supports the needs of low-income families and people in crisis from 15 west suburban communities. Their wish list consists of items for babies and toddlers, children, and teens. All donated items should be new, in original packaging with tags on.

Donations may be dropped off in our Oak Park or La Grange offices, and members of our staff will be delivering the holiday donations to the designated organizations on December 15, 2010. Please don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions about our Holiday Gift Drive.

It’s fall here at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, a time when the leaves change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to make plans for Thanksgiving. Our staff recently participated in the YMCA Downtown La Grange Halloween Walk 2010, handing out tooth brushes to all of the trick-or-treaters. What a fun community event!

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Drs. Battistoni and Beam and our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within our Oak Park and La Grange communities. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

Would you like to win a brand new Netbook? Beginning Nov. 1, our team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd will be hosting our winter Snowman Contest, which is an opportunity for all of our patients to put their creativity to the test for a chance to win a Netbook!

You might be wondering, “How do I enter this Snowman Contest?” It’s simple; all you have to do is post a picture of a handcrafted snowman on our Facebook wall!

All snowman entries must be original, handcrafted creations by our patients, which can be classified in one of two categories:

1) Your snowman can be a picture that is painted or drawn using canvas, foam board, wood, poster board, or paper

2) You can build your snowman using styrofoam, clay, wood, papier-mâché, fabric, plastic bottles, yarn, cardboard or even SNOW!

The contest winner will be determined based on creativity and originality by the team at Drs. Battistoni +Beam Ltd. The last day to enter the Snowman Contest is Jan 31, 2011, so don’t miss out on your opportunity to win.

We look forward to seeing your snowmen!

The haunting hours of Halloween can mean big trouble for trick-or-treaters who wear braces! Did you know that October is National Orthodontic Health Month? Nancy, one of our Clinical Assistants, would like to share a few tips to help our patients enjoy the holiday.

Both our La Grange and Oak Park office have copies of Pam Waterman’s Braces Cookbooks 1 & 2, which offer great recipes that will keep braces intact and patients satisfied this Halloween. Try the Pumpkin Chocolate Chip softies & the Black Cherry Fruit Bats!

Every time a bracket is broken, it can set treatment a step back. If an orthodontic patient chews the wrong type of treat this Halloween, and damage occurs, it is recommended that the patient call our office the next business day so that we can access the problem and arrangements can be made if necessary.

We recommend that you sort your child's Halloween candy to remove damaging treats when they are home from trick-or-treating. We suggest looking at treats that are soft, such as chocolate and peanut butter cups. Apples can be sliced thinly and dipped into chocolate or caramel sauce. Remember, kids with braces shouldn't feel deprived this Halloween season!

Dr. Battistoni and Dr. Beam would like to congratulate all of our 323 patients who now smile pink! In support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will be donating $1 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation for each patient that wears pink elastics during the month of October. So far, we will already be donating $323 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and we aren't even halfway through the month!

Our team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd would like to thank all of our patients that have already chosen to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we would like to encourage more patients to think pink.

Thank you,

-The team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd

La Grange, IL is one of the many cities across the nation that has gone pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Drs. Battistoni and Beam were recently featured in the La Grange, IL The Doings for the hundreds of patients that they have already put in pink bands for their Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser. For every patient that chooses to sport pink elastics during the month of October, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will donate $1 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Each patient will also receive a pink bracelet and their name will be written on a banner that is displayed in the office.

To view the complete photo album from the Breast Cancer Awareness Fundraiser, be sure to visit our Facebook page! You can also visit The Doings article for more information about Breast Cancer Awareness Month and other La Grange, IL Breast Cancer Awareness Month events.

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, we love connecting with our patients through contests, events, and fundraisers, both in the office and online. Today, we would like to update all our patients that the Breast Cancer Fundraiser is going great! As of this week, 163 patients have already gotten pink rubber bands. Wow! We would like to thank all of you that have chosen to help the Foundation, and we would like to encourage more patients to do the same.

Thank you,

-Drs. Battistoni and Beam

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, we embrace technology, whether it’s through the innovative treatments we offer, our high-tech web site or our Facebook fan page. As you can probably tell, we love connecting with our patients online, whether it’s by sharing news on our blog or sharing pictures from our Breast Cancer Awareness fundraiser on our Facebook fan page. For social media to work, we understand that conversation is vital, and that’s why we invite you to join in and tell us what’s on your mind. Although social networks are hugely popular these days, we know they’re unpredictable and ever-changing.

While Drs. Battistoni and Beam and our staff take a little time to research how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients: How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please post your thoughts or give us a call!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will be providing our patients with the opportunity to help raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. For every patient that chooses to wear pink elastic bands now through October, Drs. Battistoni and Beam will donate $1 to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. We appreciate your consideration, and look forward to seeing everyone in pink elastic bands this month!

As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule your next appointment.

Thank you,

-Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Thank you to all of our amazing patients for your votes and support during the La Grange, IL Rain Barrel Auction last Friday, Sept. 10th. Drs. Battistoni and Beam won the barrel and raised $350 for the Pets and Pals charity. We appreciate everyone who took the time to vote for our "Em-BRACE the Summer" rain barrel, as well as Caitlin O'Mahoney's Art Class at McClure Jr. High School, who painted the barrel.

For more information about the Rain Barrel Auction, feel free to give us a call, or visit our Facebook page for the complete event photo album.

Thank you,

-Drs. Battistoni and Beam

You may remember that earlier this summer Drs. Battistoni and Beam had encouraged all of our patients to help us "em-BRACE the Summer" by voting for our barrel in the Rain Barrel auction. Our office sponsored the barrel, in partnership with Caitlin O'Mahoney's Art Class at McClure Jr. High School, who painted the barrel. The action is this Friday, so if you haven't yet had a chance, please check out barrel #59 and vote for it as your favorite!

We invite all of our patients to attend the barrel auction this Friday, Sept. 10. Proceeds will benefit Pets & Pals and other nonprofit organizations.

Thank you,

-Dr. Battistoni & Dr. Beam

Often, people wonder why Oak Park and La Grange, IL orthodontists Drs. Battistoni and Beam work so hard to provide our patients with beautiful, straight teeth. Did you know that straightening your teeth at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd 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. Beam and Battistoni can help you decide if orthodontic treatment is right for you.

Hello, everyone! If we haven’t me already, my name is Jackie and I’m a Clinical Assistant at Drs. Battistoni and Beam’s office. Although I love my profession, if I were to choose another ideal job (other than helping make our patients' teeth straight and healthy) it would be in an entirely different field. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to swim with dolphins; it was an amazing experience, and one I remember so fondly. So, if I had to choose an ideal job, it would be to work with them in their training. There was such a peacefulness that came with swimming with them and a mutual trust as well.

Having been an audience member in dolphin shows a few times, I also remember how happy I was watching the relationship between the trainer and the dolphins. I realized how much time and effort must have gone into each jump or trick.

In reality, this does relate to the relationship between me and our patients. We have a special relationship built on trust. My favorite days are ones in which we are able to tell patients, especially those that have been working so hard to create their beautiful smiles, that it’s time for their braces to come off! Today, Drs. Battistoni and Beam want to know, if you were to pursue another profession, what would you want to do?

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam we make every effort to continuously improve service to our patients. Your response to our customer surveys is very important to us and as a result of your responses we have increased our telephone hours of operation to make it easier for you to reach us. In addition, if you happen to call when we are out of the office, and you do leave a message, we will make every effort to return your call the next business day.

We will also be expanding our hours for patients appointments September through May. Our offices will be open two Saturdays each month.

Thank you for taking the time to answer our customer survey. We appreciate your business and value your input to help us improve our service. As always, don't hesitate to give us a call if you have any questions!

Are you brushing your teeth twice a day during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Battistoni and Beam? If yes, that’s great! But, don’t forget that it’s also important for you to visit your dentist every six months in addition to brushing and flossing your teeth (and visiting our office, of course). Regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health.

Your general dentist can look for problems that might not be seen or felt, detect cavities and early signs of decay, and treat oral health problems.

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 Oak Park and La Grange, IL area!

Our team at Drs. Battistoni and Beam in La Grange and Oak Park, IL are dedicated to creating specialized treatment plans, which are customized towards the individual needs of our patients. Have you recently begun treatment or are considering treatment options with Drs. Battistoni and Beam? Check out all of the great patient photos on our Facebook page! To receive all of the latest office updates, event information, and pictures, take a moment to "like" our Facebook page.

While we’re taking a little time to research and decide how to best use social media, we thought we’d ask you, our loyal patients:How would you like us to use our social networks? What would you like us to share on our blog? Please give us a call today! Or, you can connect with us through our Facebook page.

Have a great week,

-Our team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Here in Oak Park and La Grange, IL, Drs. Battistoni + Beam are pleased to announce that now-more so than ever-braces are “cool." This is 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, 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 Drs. Battistoni and Beam, and may contribute to the success of treatment.

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

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.

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 child’s experience with orthodontic treatment as either positive or extremely positive.

Our team at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd are constantly striving to ensure that you and your family have an exceptional orthodontic experience, which is why that along with embracing the most cutting-edge of technologies, we also offer contests, sponsor community events, and-of course-the Wheel of Ortho. Have you heard of our latest contest, Who Owns Who? To participate, visit our office and take a guess at matching our assistants with their dogs based on photos. You could win a $50 gift card! The contest ends August 15th, and is just another way that our team is able to connect with our patients.

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

At Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd, we strive to ensure that you have a pleasant experience each time that you visit our office. That's why our team is made up of only the highest qualified doctors and clinical assistants, whom pride themselves on honesty and patient respect. We offer high tech treatment options, along with online patient communications, to provide our patients with peace of mind. But, did you know, that we also offer a Wheel of Ortho? That's right- every time a patient visits our office, we will punch their ortho card.

Is it a habit of yours to arrive for appointments right on time? Has careful eating and brushing helped you keep your brackets damage-free? If any of these are true, visit our office today to start collecting those card punches for a chance to win the Wheel of Ortho! Recently, our patient Katelyn was able to win $5 by spinning the Wheel of Ortho. You can visit our Facebook page to see more photos of patients and the Wheel of Ortho. Congratulations Karen!

Often, parents assume they must wait until their child has all of his or her permanent teeth to see Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd for a consultation, only to discover treatment would have been much easier if started earlier. Did you know the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that every child have an orthodontic check-up no later than age seven?

That’s right—seven.

Ok, so what’s so great about age seven, you ask? Enough permanent teeth have arrived for Drs. Battistoni and Beam to make a determination about whether any problems are present. The first molars have come in, providing an opportunity to check for malocclusion, or “bad bite.” Also, the incisors have begun to come in, and problems such as crowding, deep bites and open bites can be detected.

Orthodontic evaluation at an early age provides one of two positive outcomes: For some, early identification or problems will lead to easier or shorter orthodontic treatment in the future. For others, a healthy prognosis will provide immediate peace of mind.

Early evaluation, of course, may signal a need for early treatment. For some children, early treatment can prevent physical and emotional trauma. Aside from spurring on years of harmful teasing, misaligned teeth are also prone to injury and are detrimental to good oral hygiene. So, if your child is nearing his or her seventh birthday, give us a call at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. to schedule an appointment.

Here at Drs. Battistoni and Beam, we really enjoy getting involved with our community. We recently partnered with Caitlin O'Mahoney's Art Class at McClure Jr. High School, to paint and sponsor the "em-BRACE the Summer" barrel for the Rain Barrel summer event. We encourage all of our patients to check out barrel #59 and to vote for it as your favorite.

Throughout the summer, the barrels will be on display throughout La Grange, IL. Proceeds for the September barrel auction benefit the Pets & Pals charity and other not-for-profit organizations.

At Drs. Battistoni and Beam, we value your winning smile, and we want to help protect you from unpleasant and damaging sports injuries. The American Association of Orthodontics (AAO) has introduced the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge as a way of ensuring that children are using proper facial protection equipment.

Mouth guards are vital to protecting your teeth from sports related injuries while participating in sports, such as football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and basketball, to name a few. The Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge is a way for moms nationwide to make a commitment to protecting their kids’s smile from facial injuries.

In past entries, we’ve discussed the importance of using facial protection when exercising to prevent injury. Today, we at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd. are inviting moms to take action by visiting the Moms for Mouth Guards website and taking the Moms for Mouth Guards Pledge. For each mom that takes the pledge, Moms for Mouth Guards will donate a mouth guard to National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS).

Have a safe week everyone!

- Your friends at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invisalign aligners, Drs. Battistoni + Beam wants you to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.

2. Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not necessary for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.

3. Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also simple: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits. If you have any questions about Invisalign or your treatment here at our Oak Park & La Grange orthodontic offices, give us a call!

Folks with big smiles may actually live than those who don’t, according to a March 2010 study at Michigan’s Wayne State University. We 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 perfected your smile with us? If not, give Drs. Battistoni and Beam a call!

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. Battistoni & Beam.

In fact, lots of Hollywood stars have had orthodontic treatment. Check out this slideshow of famous faces. If you’ve thought about getting the perfect smile you’ve always wanted, please give us a call at either our Oak Park or La Grange, IL offices!

Now that we’re in June, our staff at Drs. Battistoni & Beam thought we’d tell you June is National Smile Month, and a good time to remind all our patients to practice good oral hygiene between your visits to see Drs. Battistoni & Beam.

Below 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.
* Floss everyday to clean between your teeth.
* Reduce your intake of sugary foods and drinks during your orthodontic treatment with Drs. Battistoni & Beam.
* Visit your dentist regularly (every 6 months)!

If you have questions about any of these tips, we encourage you to give us a call. We hope you enjoyed the long holiday weekend!

There are so many ways you protect your teeth throughout your orthodontic treatment. You brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly and protect your mouth and appliances from being damaged. But did you know there is another, often forgotten about, way to keep your teeth clean and healthy during your treatment? Fluoride – a mineral that helps prevent cavities and tooth decay – can help keep your teeth strong! Fluoride comes in two varieties: topical and systemic. Topical fluoride is applied directly to the tooth. Topical fluoride includes toothpastes and mouth rinses. Systemic fluorides are swallowed in the form of a dietary supplement.

Fluoride used in the dentist/orthodontists’ office is often times a stronger concentration than in toothpaste or mouthwash, but is available at some drug stores or a pharmacy (ask your doctor how to purchase professional strength fluoride). A fluoride treatment typically takes just a few minutes. After the treatment patients may be asked not to rinse, eat or drink for at least 30 minutes in order to allow the teeth to absorb the fluoride. Depending on your oral health or doctor’s recommendation, you may be required to have a fluoride treatment every three, six or 12 months. Your doctor may also prescribe a fluoride product such as mouthwashes, gels or antibacterial rinses for at-home treatment.

When choosing your own fluoride product, be sure to check for the American Dental Association’s (ADA) seal of acceptance. Products marked with the ADA seal of approval have been carefully examined and have met the criteria of the ADA for safety and effectiveness. Take care of your teeth, and smile bright!

--Drs. Battistoni + Beam

Our friends at the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) have put together a helpful list that outlines when you should call our office. Here are some early warning signs indicating it’s time to check in with us:

1. Early or late loss of baby teeth
2. Difficulty of chewing or biting
3. Mouth breathing
4. Finger sucking or other oral habits
5. Crowding, misplaced or blocked-out teeth
6. Jaws that shift, make sounds, protrude or retrude
7. Speech difficulty
8. Biting the cheek or biting into the roof of the mouth
9. Protruding teeth
10. Teeth that meet in an abnormal way or don’t meet at all
11. Facial imbalance or asymmetry
12. Grinding or clenching of teeth

Do any of these warning signs fit you? If so, give us a call as soon as possible!

Hope this helps,

Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Drs. Battistoni + Beam will tell you that anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic treatment, whether it’s correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO, recommends that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment at our La Grange or Oak Park offices for a consultation!

Did you know the month of May is designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month? In 1983, President Ronald Reagan encouraged Americans to incorporate more activity into their lives, and the reminder is even more significant today as kids are distracted more and more by television, social networking and video games. Kids living an active lifestyle can improve their health, productivity and overall well being, and best of all? It doesn’t have to take a lot of time!

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has provided these public health guidelines for your reference. The guidelines call for children and teenagers to exercise one hour every day of moderate intensity physical activity (such as playing sports or brisk walking) or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, dancing and jumping rope).

At Battistoni + Beam we always encourage our patients to stay fit by exercising or participating in sports. However, we want to remind you to always wear a mouth guard or other forms of facial protection when playing sports. To learn more about how often your child should exercise, we recommend you check out this series of helpful articles about kids and exercise, courtesy of our friends at KidsHealth.org.

At Battistoni + Beam, we know how important it is to protect your face while playing sports. The spring and summer months bring an increase in outdoor activities and a greater chance of damaging your precious mouth and pearly whites. Drs. Battistoni, Beam and our team also know sports-related injuries are common among children. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, 70 percent of parents said their biggest worry is that their child will get hurt while playing sports. Another 67 percent admitted their child doesn’t wear a mouth guard when playing sports such as football, basketball, baseball and soccer.

That’s why we are doing our part to spread the word that facial sports injuries can be avoided simply by reminding your kids to wear mouth guards.

In addition, the AAO has provided the following tips for keeping your kids safe on the field. Please remind them to:

• Wear mouth guards during contact sports
• Wear a helmet
• Stretch before and after a game or practice
• Wear protective eye wear
• Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
• Be observant—even as a spectator

All of these can reduce injuries. Only by using a mouth guard and other forms of facial protection can kids with and without braces avoid serious sports injuries. Be sure to avoid mouth guards that custom form to your teeth as these will resist any tooth movements we is trying to achieve. Lastly, please give us a call if you have any questions about mouth guards or your treatment at Drs. Battistoni + Beam Ltd.

Does the thought of having braces bring you down? The team at Battistoni + Beam understands that one of the biggest concerns for orthodontic patients with braces is the length of their treatment.

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

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

Results

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

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

If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, please contact our office today!

April, also known as National Facial Protection Month, is upon us, and for our team at Battistoni & Beam, that only means one thing: it’s once again time to remind our dear patients to protect their faces and pearly whites. Above is a helpful video from our friends at the AAO about staying safe on the ball field this spring.

According to the National Youth Sports Safety Foundation, children, high-school athletes and adults will have more than 5,000,000 teeth knocked out in sporting events this year. By simply wearing a properly fitted mouth guard or other form of protection, you can greatly reduce your chances of traumatic facial injuries.
We hope the above video helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of the tips offered in the video, please contact us at either our Oak Park or La Grange orthodontic offices. And remember to have fun and stay safe!

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work, says Drs. Battistoni & Beam. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. The best thing about it all? Nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

We are certified Invisalign providers. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, please give us a call.

Recently, we read a fascinating statistic: adults getting braces has jumped 24 percent from just 14 years ago! 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 to invest in orthodontics. Orthodontic treatment with Drs. Battistoni + Beam 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'd would love to have you visit for a consultation. Please give us a call to set one up!

At Drs. Battistoni & Beam, we embrace new technology, whether it is through the innovative orthodontic treatments that we offer, our high-tech web site and social networks, or our modern offices conveniently located in Oak Park and La Grange, IL.

Did you know that patients at our office have access to their account 24 hours a day, seven days a week—all through our web site? You can look up your appointments and all of your account details at your convenience, from the comfort of your own home! You can even receive appointment reminders through email or text messages!

Just see what some of our patients are saying about this service:

Being able to check things, without needed to call the office. And I can do it on my time, day or night.

On-line account access allows a patient to identify charges relating to services with up to date info.

Drs. Battistoni and Beam are many steps ahead of any and all healthcare professionals that I have been in contact with. Having this service enables us to find any information at any time. There are no questions left unanswered because not only did Dr. Battistoni thoroughly explain everything but, if I forgot anything, it is right here on the website. Having this extra line of communication available is absolutely incredible!

You, too, can sign up for this convenient service on our web site by clicking on the "Patient Login" button on our homepage. Please give us a call if you have any questions about getting started!

Drs. Beam and Battistoni love getting reviews from our wonderful patients. And lately, our office, serving La Grange, Oak Park and surrounding communities, has been getting some pretty great patient testimonials! (We suspect it might have something to do with our staff asking patients to submit their reviews last week). Anyway, we thought we'd share some with you today! Happy Monday!

"They are very nice, kind and generous. They have vast knowledge on teeth and how to make you smile more." ~ Lisa K.

"Personal service, highly efficient office/staff, technologically advanced." ~ Ann C.

"It is hard to find any dental office that has such a friendly and understanding staff. All of the employees in your office have been extremely friendly and informative. Great Job. I would refer my friends to your office for their orthodontic needs." ~ Tammy W.

"Kind, competent, extremely caring, tremendously knowledgeable, reassuring, compassionate, understanding for a fearful child, organized..." ~ Cynthia B.

From your very first visit to our office, Drs. Battistoni and Beam, as well as our team, strive to provide superior orthodontic treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. While state-of-the-art technology brings our treatment to a new level of clinical performance, we believe our emphasis on building relationships is what makes us really stand out. Today, we thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you been especially impressed by Drs. Battistoni and Beam? Did our professional team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for months, we’d love to hear your feedback. Or, you can tell us by giving us a call!

People wonder why Drs. Battistoni and Beam work tirelessly to give our patients straight teeth. And here's our answer:

Straight teeth lead to better oral hygiene, increasing your chances of keeping your own natural teeth for a lifetime.

Straight teeth are also 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! Drs. Battistoni and Beam, as well as our dedicated staff, understand your desire to seek the best possible orthodontic care for you or your child. We pride ourselves on our honesty and patient respect, and assure you the best orthodontic treatment available.

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