Is your teen ready to start orthodontic treatment this year? Preparing your adolescent child for orthodontic treatment can help them understand the responsibility and benefits of braces and Invisalign before you start the process. While their friends can tell them what to expect, treatment is individualized to their specific needs so no two journeys are exactly the same. With over 10 years experience as an orthodontist, here are 9 common questions we get from families coming for their first consultation:

Is my child ready for orthodontic treatment? Braces and clear aligners are usually considered when most of a child's adult teeth have grown in, usually around age 11-14. In some cases, braces are needed on younger children (age 7-10) if they have specific bites or complex issues. Every child is different, and we review x-rays and photos to determine if they are ready.

What are the different types of braces available? There are different types of braces, like metal braces, ceramic braces, and clear aligners. Metal braces are the most common and are made of stainless steel. Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces and are made of tooth-colored materials like ceramic. Clear aligners (such as Invisalign) are made of plastic and are removable. You can learn about the differences between braces and Invisalign here.

How long will my child need to wear braces? The length of time your child will need to wear braces depends on their specific dental issues. While it varies person to person, most people wear braces for about 1-3 years, with average cases closer to 18-24 months.

What is the cost of orthodontic treatment? The cost of orthodontic treatment varies depending your child's needs, the appliances used, and length of treatment. It's a good idea to check with your insurance company to find out how much of the cost insurance covers. Our office can also help obtain that information for you at the complimentary consultation.

What can my child expect during the braces process? Getting braces put on doesn't hurt - no shots, no needles, no numbing - but your child may feel some discomfort or pressure for a few days afterward. They need to avoid certain foods that can damage the braces, and they'll need to brush their teeth more carefully to keep their braces clean. Rubber bands are used in most cases for bite correction.

Will my child have to have a gooey mold or dental impression taken? In our office, we use 3D digital scanners to take "digital molds" of their teeth. While some offices still take the old-school plaster impressions, we are in favor of the newest technology to ensure a comfortable experience for your child.

Are there any risks or complications associated with braces? While braces are generally safe, there can be some risks, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or damage to the braces if the braces are not cared for properly. We will talk to you and your child about how to prevent these problems for the best experience possible.

How can I help support my child during orthodontic treatment? You can help your child by encouraging them to follow their orthodontist's instructions and supporting good brushing and flossing habits at home. Additionally, it is important to encourage them that with good cooperation, they will have a better result and reduce their time in braces or clear aligners.

What happens after treatment is completed? After braces are removed or Invisalign is completed, your child will need to wear a retainer to help keep their teeth in their new position. We have options for retainers at the end of treatment, including bonded (fixed) retainers and removable retainers.

We hope this helps you prepare for an upcoming consultation. Still have something you'd like to ask before you commit? Feel free to send us a message here and we'd be happy to help answer your questions : )

Dr. Zach

If you have school age children, determining the age of the first orthodontic visit may be confusing. You may see some first graders in braces and you may be wondering: "Why in the world are they wearing braces already? As a parent, am I missing something?"

It is very common for parents to ask me:

What is the best age to bring my child for their first orthodontic screening?

In my opinion, I believe the best time for a first visit is around their 8th birthday. At this age, children have a mix of both adult and baby teeth, and we can start to foresee how their teeth and jaws will line up in the future. Specifically, I am looking for:
- Cross bites (top jaw is too small)
- Excessive crowding or spacing of the teeth
- Overbites and underbites (mismatch of upper and lower jaw size)
- Missing teeth, late erupting teeth, extra teeth, abnormally shaped teeth
- Environmental factors (thumb sucking habits, mouth breathing, etc.)

While there are many things I am looking for at this age, it does not necessarily mean that I will treat them at this age. In fact, for most kids under the age of 11, I recommend waiting.  While every orthodontist is different, I prefer a conservative approach and I firmly believe "less is more" when it comes to orthodontic treatment.

Why do I take this approach? For many bites, we have studies that show we can get the same result if we treat in one stage instead of two. This not only saves time and money in orthodontic treatment, but it gives your kid the chance to be a kid without having braces from age 8 until 13. Additionally, we have to consider these are their adult teeth - they need to have them forever! Hygiene is very important, and I want to give every kid the chance to keep their teeth clean and cavity-free if possible.

Does this mean I wait in all cases? Not at all! It is true - some cases I do recommend a 2 step approach with early orthodontic intervention at age 8-10 years old. Often times, this is for bone growth issues that are best addressed at that age, or for teeth alignment issues that if left untreated will make for a more difficult treatment in the future. If this is the case, I try to do an early treatment for as little time as possible to help correct the problem. Then we can wait and approach the rest as a pre-teen or teenager. I sincerely look at every child as if they were my own, and if there is a situation that I would treat my son or daughter, then I let you know.

I take pride in our conservative approach to early treatment. Best of all, we do not charge anything for an initial screening - our first appointment is entirely free, and you do not need a referral from your dentist to check us out. Feel free to reach out anytime with questions - I am here to help : )

-Dr. Zach

If there’s one thing you should know about me, it's that I love Downers Grove. I love the small town feel and I love the way people come back to raise their own families here. Having grown up attending the District 58 & 99 schools, playing for Downers Grove North soccer at Carsten’s Field, eating ice cream at Every Day’s a Sundae, and watching movies at the Tivoli, I love that I get to experience those memories through different eyes with my own kids. 

That’s one of the reasons why giving back to the community of Downers Grove is so important to me. In the past 7 years Zach Frazier Orthodontics has made over $50K in contributions to over 40 local groups, schools and organizations in and surrounding Downers Grove. These include schools; all types of youth sports and clubs; and community organizations like Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club, Sharing Connections, and The Grove Foundation.

These groups, schools and organizations make Downers Grove a great place to live and be a part of; contributing to their success makes me feel good, knowing that I’m contributing to the success and joy of so many of my patients and their families as well. 

I pride myself in being an excellent orthodontist who cares about each of his patients and provides excellence in service, but I also know that creating smiles isn’t all about orthodontics. It’s also about giving back and building strong relationships through social opportunities - in and out of the office. I’m proud of the work I do creating beautiful smiles through braces and Invisalign; and by contributing to my patients overall experience growing up or living in Downers Grove. 

-Dr. Zach

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At Zach Frazier Orthodontics, we are proud to have a community focused orthodontic practice that provides exceptional care to each of our patients. With one doctor and one location, we provide one on one experiences that will leave you smiling. 

Get to know Dr. Zach Frazier

Dr. Zach is a board-certified specialist in orthodontics dedicated to providing high-quality care. His training has gone above and beyond traditional orthodontics. Previously, he was part of the craniofacial team at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC.

Due to this additional experience, he can offer exceptional care to all patients, including those with special needs. He believes that treatment should be both an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and he would be privileged to care for you and your family.

Schedule an appointment with us today!

At our practice we strive to provide the highest quality orthodontic treatment but also ensure incredible customer service and make you feel like you’re at home while you’re visiting us. Visit us online for a complimentary virtual consultation or click below to schedule an in-person consultation. 

CLICK BELOW OR CALL US TODAY FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION. 

We were honored to recently be featured in DMG DENTALPROFILES! You can view it here (page 59) or read below!

Can you share your journey to becoming an orthodontist? 

I started my education here in Downers Grove at Highland Elementary School, Herrick Middle School, and Downers Grove North. Growing up, I never had my thoughts set on being an orthodontist; instead, I thought about doing something that involved healthcare. My parents are both in healthcare, and I had many extended family members involved in that field as well. After high school, I studied molecular biology and Spanish at The University of Illinois, and after graduation, I began working for an oral surgeon. After this experience, I decided to apply to dental school at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), followed by my orthodontic specialty degree from Washington Hospital Center in Washington, D.C. I was drawn to orthodontics in dental school as I felt like it was the “fun” part of dentistry - no numbing, no needles, etc. I enjoyed the cosmetic and artistry part of orthodontics.

What makes Zach Frazier Orthodontics unique?

A few things make us unique. First, our mission is to serve and improve the community, which is why we are so heavily involved in supporting many schools and organizations locally. Internally, we are seriously dedicated to customer service and communication. We believe there is nothing more important to us than making our patients and their families happy, and we are willing to go above and beyond to prove this. Service, communication, and transparency are sometimes overlooked in the medical field, but those are our key priorities. Straight teeth and a healthy bite are the expectation with any orthodontic office, but we strive to make the experience better than anyone else.

As heavily involved in the community as you are, what are some of the organizations you support and why? 

In the six years that we have been in business, we have made over $40,000 in contributions to 36 community groups/schools/organizations. There are so many to name! We have made many contributions to District 58 & District 99 schools and the private schools in Downers Grove. I attended District 58 & 99 schools growing up, and I love giving back to the schools that helped shape my future. We also have provided support for some schools in the towns surrounding Downers Grove. We are a huge sponsor for many Downers Grove area sports clubs, including Roadrunners soccer, Rebels softball, Hitmen baseball, Fury baseball, Longshots baseball, Panthers football, Downers Grove Youth Baseball, and many more. It is an incredible opportunity to support so many kiddos who come into our office and sponsor their teams. Within Downers Grove, we also support many community groups, such as Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club, Navigate Adolescence, and The Grove Foundation.

Besides bringing beautiful smiles to your patients, what is the most rewarding part about being an orthodontist? 

One of the most rewarding parts is meeting so many great people. Our dental specialty is very social, and seeing families come in over many years is fun. I love seeing old classmates in the office with their kids.

As a native of Downers Grove, what was your experience growing up here? 

I loved growing up in Downers Grove. I grew up watching movies at the Tivoli with my family, getting ice cream at Every Day’s a Sundae, and heading to McCollum for soccer games. There are so many great memories of playing for Downers Grove North soccer at Carsten’s Field. One thing that is awesome about Downers Grove is that many of my friends who share those memories still live here, too, and we are now reliving those memories with our kids. That’s one of the unique things about Downers Grove – people come back here to settle down and raise their kids, and I think that says a lot about the vibe of this town.

CLICK BELOW OR CALL US FOR A COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial research, the prevalence of TMJ problems (also known as temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder) is between 5% - 12% of the population. It is more common in females than males, and tends to affect younger people more often.

While orthodontic treatment does not cause TMJ issues, studies also show that it cannot prevent or treat TMJ pain either. Here are some common questions that you may have if you are in orthodontic treatment and are now experiencing some jaw joint pain.

What does TMJ stand for and what is it?

• TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint. It is located directly in front of your ears, and it is where your lower jaw hinges upon opening and closing.

What are TMJ problems?

• TMJ problems include clicking/popping joints, painful joints, or restricted jaw movement. TMJ problems may vary in severity from mild pain to severe pain, and the pain may be a temporary pain or a constant pain. TMJ problems may be related to the actual joint (bones and ligaments), or it may be related to the muscles around the joint.

What causes TMJ problems?

• TMJ problems may be caused by an injury to the face or jaw, grind/clenching of teeth, stress, muscle fatigue or overuse of the jaw joint. Additionally, it is linked to hormonal changes in women that cause laxity of the ligaments in the jaw joint. TMJ problems are most common in teenage girls and young women.

What can I do to improve my TMJ problems or TMJ pain?
Most TMJ problems can be managed by these conservative measures:

• Maintain a soft diet, and avoid chewy food and chewing gum.
• Use warm, moist heat on the jaw muscles to increase blood flow and massage the muscles. Alternate the warm moist heat with an ice pack on the joint area which will help reduce inflammation of the joints.
• Use anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce pain and inflammation. Ibuprofen is the most common, but you should consult your physician with which anti-inflammatory medication is best for you.
• Avoid clenching your teeth by setting up reminders to keep your teeth apart and jaw muscles relaxed.
• Monitor your stress and manage it to avoid muscle tension and clenching.

What if my symptoms do not improve with conservative therapy?

• If your symptoms are not improving, a referral will be made to another doctor who specifically manages TMJ problems. They may recommend more diagnostic imaging (like an MRI) to evaluate the jaw joint to find the cause of the problem. In some cases, a night guard may be recommended to help alleviate some pain.

Can I continue my orthodontic treatment?

• In some cases, orthodontic treatment may be paused for a period of time, and occasionally it may be discontinued depending on the circumstances. The recommendations are on a case by case basis.

If you have any other questions, please let your orthodontist know. More often than not, a little patience and conservative measures will improve the TMJ pain, so hang in there : )

Perhaps you have memories of sitting in a dental chair anxiously waiting for a dental impression (dental mold).  Memories of a cold, gooey mixture inching closer down your throat. Memories of drool hanging off the edge of your lip while the mold is held in place. The very thought of it for some people will make them gag!

We have good news for you: meet the intraoral scanner. While this technology has been out for some time, it is still not universally used. Here are some information about what it is and how it will make your trip to the orthodontist much better.

1. What is 3D digital intraoral scanner?

   1. It is a high-tech video camera that captures images of your teeth to create a 3D digital model of your teeth.

2. Does it use any radiation like an x-ray?

   1. No radiation is used - it is simply a video camera that stitches many images together to create the 3D image of your teeth.

3. How long does it take to have your teeth scanned?

   1. It depends on the experience of the user, but in most cases it will take less than 5 minutes to get a full scan of all of your upper and lower teeth.

4. What do you do with the 3D image?

   1. We can use the image in lots of ways. We can use it to diagnose your bite or create 3D printed physical models of your teeth. With the printed models, we can make all sorts of orthodontic appliances and retainers without ever having to take a dental mold.

5. Do you still have to take a mold to get retainers?

   1. No way : ) Our patients do not have to have dental impressions taken at any time.

6. Can this be used for Invisalign clear aligner treatment?

   1. Yes! Additionally the aligners will be better fitting as a 3D intraoral scanner is more accurate than traditional dental molds.

We absolutely love the 3D intraoral scanners in our office. Treatment is dramatically more comfortable for our patients leading to a better experience. Additionally, we are getting more accurate orthodontic appliances which leads to better treatment and reduced time spent at the orthodontist. Finally, it is great form an environmental standpoint as there are fewer steps, fewer appointments, and less waste by using the scanner.

If you're interested in pursuing braces treatment or you are considering Invisalign clear aligner treatment, make sure you visit an orthodontist with a 3D intraoral scanner. You will thank me later ; )

All of us are born with the innate sucking reflex. It is needed to survive as an infant and helps us eat as babies. As we develop, some babies will use a thumb, finger, or a pacifier as a comforting mechanism. However, at some point, this habit can start to cause harm to the developing teeth and bones of the mouth.

At what age do kids need to stop sucking thumbs or using pacifiers?
- Depending on how much sucking pressure your child uses on his thumb or pacifier, you may start to see changes as soon as age 2-4 years old. You may notice flaring of the front teeth and changes to the shape of the smile. Typically, these changes can self-correct if the child is done with the habit by age 6 before the adult teeth start to erupt.

Why do we need to break the habit?
- The habit can permanently change shape of bones of the mouth and permanently change the shape of the smile.  Some long-term habits can cause irreversible changes that cannot be fixed with orthodontic treatment alone. Additionally, it will create issues that can make orthodontic treatment more time-consuming, more complex, and more expensive.

How can we start to break a pacifier habit?
Typically a thumb habit is more challenging to break than a pacifier habit because you cannot take a thumb away : ) In most cases, you will start this process at a younger age while the child is still a toddler, and in many cases they will stop on their own. Avoid harsh words or punishment as this is not effective for this age group. Praise progress and use rewards charts to help encourage them to quit. Beware - in some cases, a new thumb or finger habit may emerge!

How can we start to break a thumb habit?
- Be conservative at first! If your child in pre-school or early elementary school, start by talking about it. Kids must be on board to quit; if they do not want to quit, conservative approaches may not be successful, and you may have to revisit it again after waiting a few months. The earlier you start the conversation, the better of you are since the upper front adult teeth will come in around age 6-7. I recommend starting out with simple reminders such as wearing a Band-Aid on the thumb or finger.

My kid is now on board - what can we do to help him quit his thumb habit?
- While they may relapse at times to find comfort, you may need to use additional items to help kick the habit. You can try a baseball batting glove, thin winter glove, or sock over the hand at night time. You can loosely add medical tape around the wrist to make it more difficult to remove, but please be sure it is not too tight. Another product is Mavala Stop which is a sour tasting nail polish to serve as a reminder. Always remember - couple the reminders with a tracking and reward system to celebrate the small wins. Praise will help keep the kids motivated - remember they want to make you happy!

What if the conservative habit break measures don't work?
- More aggressive physical reminders in addition to the above may be needed. An Ace bandage wrap around the elbow will make it more difficult to bend the elbow which will restrict their ability to bring their hand towards the mouth. You may also consider a wrist guard thumb habit appliance (TGuard brand) that is fixed to the wrist and plastic around the thumb/fingers

What if everything else does not work - what is our last resort?
- Orthodontic appliances are the last resort. If all else fails and we see the habit is causing significant bone changes, we can make what we call a "habit appliance" and cement it to the molars in the mouth. It is like a metal cage that fits near the roof of the mouth and difficult to remove. Typically, we will keep it in place for 9 months, but no less than 6 months in order to break the habit. If this appliance is needed, many times a palatal expander will be needed afterwards to correct the changes that have occurred due to the habit.

Orthodontists are skilled in helping you and your child with their habit issues. Additionally, we are skilled at correcting the problems that prolonged habits may cause. Be sure to talk to your local orthodontist early about breaking the habit - it will certainly make a difference in the long run!

We love supporting our community in any and every way possible. We are highlighting another person who deserves recognition in our community for his great service - Danny Glover of Skuddlebutts. He is a DG native who is just as passionate about pizza as he is the community - take a minute to check him out!

MEET DANNY GLOVER - OWNER OF SKUDDLEBUTTS IN DOWNERS GROVE

Everyone around town has seen the generosity of Danny and his crew over the past few months in their support for our healthcare workers, and he has supported the community and schools for many years. He’s truly a hometown hero and continues to motivate every business around to support the community!

Originally opened in 1939, Skuddlebutts became Danny’s back in 2009. Born and raised in DG, he started working there at age 15 as a bus boy, and gradually worked his way to gain the opportunity to buy the restaurant. 

While known for their pizza, Skuddlebutts are masters of catering. With summer coming up, they provide an amazing on-site backyard BBQ that you must check out for graduation parties and celebrations!

Danny is truly motivated to do his best for both business and community. He loves basketball, board games, biking and travel. His mentor Bill Gall (previous owner of Skuddlebutts) really instilled a great work ethic, and this is clearly reflected in Danny’s effort.

Make sure to check out Skuddlebutts here in Downers Grove and support the businesses that shape this amazing village!

Skuddlebutts
440 Ogden Avenue
Downers Grove, IL 60515

Web: https://skuddlebutts.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkuddlebuttsPizzaAndCateringDownersGrove/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skuddlebutts/

Orthodontic separators (also known as “spacers”) are small latex-free rubber bands that fit in between two teeth to make space in preparation for fitting an orthodontic band or ring around the tooth. These are commonly placed before a palatal expander is placed.

What can my child expect after the separator or "spacer" is placed?

1. Mild soreness from the spacer is expected – use over the counter pain medications as needed.
2. Pressure or feeling of something stuck between the teeth is normal.
3. If the spacer falls out a few days before the next appointment, that usually means enough space has been made.

Tips:

1. Do not try to remove the spacers at home – this may delay fitting the orthodontic band or appliance at the next appointment
2. Avoid sticky and chewy foods that may dislodge the spacer
3. Brush the area normally but do not floss the area with the spacers

If the spacer falls out before your next appointment, the ring around the tooth should still fit in most cases so there is no need to come in for a separate appointment. If you have any questions or concerns about the spacer, please call our office, as we are happy to help!

After being temporarily closed for a long 8 weeks, we are ready to make you smile again! We had to postpone hundreds of appointments, so we have a long road ahead to catch up. Rest assured, we will get there!

As we move forward with some new guidelines, we ask for patience and understanding. The new guidelines are for everyone's benefit in order to have a safe environment for care as well as to provide an efficient way to get everyone back on track.

Here is what you need to know:

APPOINTMENTS AND SCHEDULING:
- PLEASE WAIT FOR OUR OFFICE TO CONTACT YOU FOR AN APPOINTMENT. We have a long list of people to contact, and this will make for more efficient scheduling by our team.
- COMFORT/URGENT APPOINTMENTS: These appointments will still only be seen on an as-needed basis for significant pain or bleeding. For now, broken brackets are not considered urgent comfort appointments. Need advice - click here!
- RETAINER CHECKS: All retainer check appointments will be postponed until the fall with exception of certain cases that Dr. Zach sees necessary; if you have retainer concerns, please call us and we can still schedule an appointment
- GROWTH CHECKS: Growth check appointments will be seen on a case-by-case basis; in many cases, they will be postponed until the fall; if you have concerns and would like to be seen sooner, please call us and we can still schedule an appointment

BEFORE YOUR VISIT:
- PLEASE BRUSH YOUR TEETH THOROUGHLY RIGHT BEFORE YOUR APPPOINTMENT and do not come in with excessive food or debris on your teeth/braces. Our tooth brushing station is closed and is now a designated station for our patients to wash their hands.
- EVERYONE WHO ENTERS OUR BUILDING MUST HAVE A MASK (both patient and parents). Please come prepared.

YOUR VISIT:
- FOR ALL MINORS (18 and younger), a parent must be at the appointment to sign a questionnaire regarding COVID symptoms and exposure. If you cannot come, you must contact our office prior to the appointment for the form and send a SIGNED COPY with your child. Unfortunately, we cannot make any exceptions to this rule.
- PLEASE ARRIVE ON-TIME. We have staggered arrival times to limit the number of people in our building at any given time. Arriving too early will likely lead to waiting, and late arrivals may need to be rescheduled.
- When you arrive, REMAIN IN YOUR CAR AND CALL our office to let us know you have arrived. We will let you know when to come in.
- For any minor patient, ONE parent/guardian should come in to sign a questionnaire form regarding COVID symptoms and exposure. Absolutely no other individuals will be allowed. We encourage that parents return to their car after signing our questionnaire.
- DO NOT COME IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL. Any question indicating recent exposure to COVID-19 or anyone with signs/symptoms will be asked to leave immediately and will not be able to return for at least the specified 14-day self-quarantine requirement.
- THE PATIENT’S TEMPERATURE WILL BE TAKEN using a touchless thermometer. If the temperature is > 100 degrees F, you will be asked to leave immediately and will not be able to return for at least the specified 14-day self-quarantine requirement.
- PLEASE MAINTAIN 6-FOOT SOCIAL DISTANCING guidelines while in the office and seated in the waiting room. Reception furniture has been limited to accommodate this guideline.
- Patients will be asked to wash or sanitize their hands before and after their appointment.
- Patients will be asked to rinse with Colgate Peroxyl mouth rinse at their chair where an assistant will suction.
- We ask for understanding as we try to address all of your needs at your visit. Individuals with multiple broken brackets or issues may not have everything completed during the visit due to strict scheduling times. If you anticipate you or child needs more time for these issues, let us know beforehand.

AFTER THE VISIT:
- DO NOT DRIVE HOME RIGHT AWAY - WE NEED TO SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT VISIT! For child patients, one of our team members will call you to update you on progress and schedule the next appointment. We will not be scheduling at our front desk at this time.
- ADULT PATIENTS – you will be scheduled while seated in the chair.

OUR NEW PROTOCOLS:
- HOURS: Our office hours are now Monday to Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm until further notice. We have extended our clinic hours to space out appointments, catch up on overdue treatment, and allow for extensive cleaning of our office twice per day. We will notify you once normal hours of operation resume in the future.
- BARRIERS: You will notice clear barriers at our front desk as well as in our consult room. Additionally, we have placed barriers between our chairs in the clinic (which are 7 feet apart). We will continue to operate our medical grade HEPA filter in our treatment area (this has been present prior to the pandemic).
- CLEANING: Office cleaning will take place in the morning, midday, and evening.
- RECEPTION ROOM: Furniture has been limited and no magazines or books are available. We encourage non-patients (parents/guardians) to wait in the car or outside.

TEAMWORK:
- OUR TEAM IS SCREENED ON A DAILY BASIS with a questionnaire, and temperature is taken daily. Any team member with COVID symptoms or a fever >100 degree F will be required to go home.
- OUR TEAM HAS BEEN THOROUGHLY TRAINED on the new protocols. Please be patient as things may take more time at first as we are adapting to our new protocols.

Our priority has always been delivering the absolute best orthodontic in a safe and timely manner - that still remains our top priority. We are still committed to this community for the long haul, so while some things will be different about our office in the short-term, our mission has not changed!

Questions or concerns should be addressed by calling or emailing our office - we are here for you. We understand this may be the first time many of you are leaving your home in 8 weeks, so please do not hesitate to let us know how we can make you feel safe and secure. See you soon!

• Dr. Zach

Hey ZFO fans : )

Given the circumstances of our temporary office closure, I wanted to give some information that you may find helpful.

I understand the need for guidance with your orthodontic treatment, so we have made created another way to stay in touch with you. We are now available to do virtual visits by appointment. Here is what you need to know should you be interested:

1) If you have an appointment that has already been postponed or rescheduled, you will get an additional email with links to video instructions. Please watch the videos : )
2) If your appointment is in the month of April, your additional email will come the week you were due to see us.
3) After watching the videos, if you wish to have a visit with me, please send an email request. We can meet via phone or video conference, or we can simply continue to communicate via email.
4) Note: our email and video conferencing application (Doxy.me) are HIPAA compliant and secure.

Q: What are you looking for in the photos we send?
A: I can assess brushing, rubber band wear, and some general progress.

Q: Can the virtual appointment replace my in-office visit?
A: No, we will still need to see you in person once we are open.

Q: Is the virtual appoinment required or can i just wait for an in-office visit?
A: No, the virtual appointment is optional.

Q: I had a consultation scheduled - can I still reach out to meet virtually?
A: Yes, we would love to meet you and start the conversation regarding your needs! Our in-office visit is still required once we are open.

Q: I have an urgent need and/or pain from my orthodontic appliances - can I be seen?
A: Yes, we are able to see you in our office for emergencies and urgent needs. Please call us.

While we are disappointed that we are closed, we understand that it is the responsible thing to do given the current situation. Please keep up to date with the CDC and please stay at home to follow the social distancing guidelines. We are all in this together. Stay healthy and please reach out with any questions - I am still here for you guys! I look forward to speaking with some of you soon : )

Take care,
Dr. Zach

Winter brings lots of fun for the community with many fundraisers and galas!  Here is a few events we have supported in Winter 2019-2020 : )

Downers Grove District 99 Pizza Wars: We were proud to sponsor this amazing event again held at Downers Grove South High School. The pizza is amazing so if you missed it this year, be sure to check it out next year! Dr. Zach is proud alum of District 99 : )

Downers Grove Icefest: For the past 5 years, we have sponsored an ice sculpture at this event. The weather was perfect this year and we had a great time checking out all the local businesses and their sculptures.

Whittier PTA Spring Fundraiser: Whittier held its annual spring fundraiser at Neat Kitchen and Bar in Westmont this year with the them "Get Out of the Cold." It was a big success!

St. Mary of Gostyn Blue and Gold Gala: SMG celebrated thier 25th annual gala to raise funds for the school at Esplanade Lakes Ballroom in Downers Grove. We were very happy to send our support!

Pierce Downer Trivia Night: In February, Pierce Downer held a Trivia Night Fundraiser at the Moose Lodge in Downers Grove. We are happy to support all of our District 58 schools!

St. Joseph Green and White Gala: St. Joseph school held its annual gala again this year and we were happy to send out support once again!

Downers Grove Christian School Gala: DGCS held its annual gala at the end of February at the Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace. A successful silent auction helped raise funds for the school!

We look forward to the spring as we are going to be sponsoring many more events in the community. We hope to see you out there!

We receive lots of questions every week from people interesting straightening their teeth to improve their smile and to create a healthy bite. Here are a few of our most popular questions and answers : )

1. What is an orthodontist, and how is he/she different than my regular dentist?
   An orthodontist is a dental specialist who focuses only on treatment with braces, clear aligners (Invisalign), and retainers. An orthodontist has pursued 2-3 years of additional training beyond dental school in order to specialize in the growth and development of facial structures.
2. What problems does an orthodontist fix?
   Common orthodontic problems include crowding or spacing of teeth, uneven smile, impacted or unerupted teeth, and improper jaw alignment.
3. Will getting braces or orthodontic treatment hurt?
   Generally, there is a short period of discomfort for a couple of days in your teeth, gums, and cheeks as you mouth gets adjusted to the braces. Dr. Zach will discuss with you or your parents the best way to manage this discomfort.
4. What is the best age to see Dr. Zach for a consultation?
   In general, anyone wishing to improve his or her smile can schedule an exam at any age, from children to adults! Most full orthodontic treatments will begin around age 11-13 to coincide with the start of adolescence and the loss of remaining baby teeth. However, some problems can still develop before this age and require a form of early treatment as early as age 7.
5. How do I take care of my braces?
   Excellent brushing and flossing habits are necessary to take care of your braces and teeth. Also, you will need to follow our instructions on how to avoid any broken appliances and problems.
6. How long will I have wear braces or Invisalign clear aligners?
   Treatment times will vary on an individual basis depending on your goals and how challenging the tooth movements will be. Treatment times can range from 6 months to 30 months, and the most common treatments average about 18-20 months for a beautiful smile.
7. Do I still see my regular dentist every 6 months?
   Yes! It is absolutely necessary to see your general dentist every 6 months for regular check-ups and cleanings. The health of your teeth is our number one priority, and your dentist is essential in the maintenance of your teeth before, during, and after treatment.
8. Will I have problems playing sports or musical instruments?
   Although there is an initial adjustment period, you should not have problems participating in your normal activities with braces. We recommend wearing a mouth guard during contact sports.
9. Will I have to wear a retainer at the end of treatment?
   Yes, at the conclusion of orthodontic treatment, a retainer is required to maintain the result and keep your smile beautiful.

Still have more questions? Feel free to contact us here or call/text us anytime : ) We are happy to help!

Fall is always a busy time of year around here, and we make sure we are out there supporting our community however we can!

This fall, we sponsored many different groups, teams, and events around Downers Grove - let's check 'em out : )

Downers Grove North Athenas: We are proud to sponsor the DGN Athenas Dance Team during their 2019-2020 competition season. As a DGN alum, Dr. Zach is proud to be giving back to the purple and white!

Downers Grove South Marching Mustangs: DGS Marching Mustangs are simply amazing! They take pride in their band and they are run a pretty big Music Bowl in the fall. We are proud of the Marching Mustangs and we have many patients participating with them as well!

Navigate Adolescence: This group was put together to help teens and pre-teens as they transition kids to adolescents. This can be a trying time for both kids and parents, so they are there to help educate and support along the way. ZFO is proud to sponsor their annual Pancake Breakfast held at Ballydoyle in Downers Grove - it was a lot of fun!

Downers Grove Junior Women's Club: DGJWC is an amazing group of women who are dedicated to giving back to our community. They are a philanthropic group that participates in many fundraisers and events, and our community is truly better because of their efforts. We love what they do for DG, and we are super proud to support their continued efforts to improve our village.

Fairmount Elementary Trivia Night: Fairmount PTA hosted its annual Trivia Night once again, and we were proud to be a sponsor of this event. Fairmount School in Downers Grove is one of many schools we support, and we are thrilled that the PTA had a successful night raising money for the school - way to go!

Highland Elementary One Book One School Program: Highland School is special for Dr. Z - he spent 7 years there from kindergarten to 6th grade! For the past few years, we have donated to the One Book One School Program which provides the same book to all families that they read together throughout the year. This year's book was Finding Gobi and it was a big hit!

Once again, we cannot thank the community enough for their support. As Downers Grove's hometown orthodontist, we are happy to help anyway we can!

Hey parents - we get it. Finding room in the family budget for straight teeth is a challenge amongst everything else going on. Sports uniforms, piano lessons, iPhones, vacations - kids sure are expensive. And I totally understand - I have kids of my own, and there always seems to be something coming up.

Looking ahead to 2020, I want to help by giving you some honest and actionable advice to help you save on your orthodontic treatment. It may take a little research, but it will be well worth it in the end!

1. Employer Insurance Plans:

   If you are looking at plans for 2020 and your employer offers an option with an orthodontic benefit, the best time to plan is now. Schedule a consultation with an orthodontist to see if your child will need braces in 2020. If they do, then you can do the math to see if the extra premium is worth it. If they don't, see if you can get a timeline of when he or she will be ready. This way you only pay the additional premium if you're going to use it.

2. Insurance Networks:

   Many people do not realize it, but going to an in-network dentist has many advantages that are not often discussed. They are not discussed because many dentists do not participate with insurances. They may say "we work with your insurance," but the true value for you is when they are actually in-network. In many cases, your lifetime orthodontic benefit will be greater if you go to an in-network orthodontist, and their fees are set by the insurance company so they are very reasonable and fair. If you venture out-of-network, the provider can charge you literally whatever they want to!

3. Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts:

   FSAs are a great way to take advantage of your employer benefits to help reduce some out-of-pocket costs on orthodontic treatment. Visit your orthodontist before you set your FSA limits for 2020 to find out how you can plan your payments. HSAs are also a great way to use pre-tax dollars to your benefit to pay for orthodontic treatment.

4. Payment Plans:

   Most orthodontists will offer in-house financing with 0% interest on the monthly payments. This can be a huge advantage for a family trying to budget out the cost of braces or Invisalign® for multiple kids, so be sure to talk with the office to see how the payments can be arranged. You may be surprised to find out that offices are willing to finance beyond the treatment time or accept a small down payment as low as a couple hundred dollars. All you have to do is ask : )

At Zach Frazier Orthodontics, we take pride in our ability to make treatment affordable while maintaining the highest standards of care and customer service. How do we do it? Well, frankly, we are different than most offices in that we do the following:

• Time and cost efficiency - shorter treatment time means less cost
• Best technology and materials for the best results
• Custom payment options to optimize your FSAs and HSAs
• Reduce out-of-pocket costs by being an in-network insurance provider
• Low down payments on treatment
• 100% no pressure - we are not here to "sell" you anything
• Evening and Saturday appointment times

As a member of the community, I would not be able to do my job any other way. My patients are your friends, your family, and your neighbors; and we are proud of our reputation. Feel free to send us a text or email - we are here to help you : )

#loveyoursmile
- Dr. Zach

Wow - what a beautiful day for a fall 5K! The sun was shining and the weather was perfect for the kids fun and 5K. Belle Aire PTA is always planning an awesome event with a great atmosphere. There is music bumping, unique raffle prizes, and tons of games for the kiddos : )

It is awesome to see so many families and local businesses supporting our Downers Grove community. We truly enjoy participating and sponsoring the school events throughout all of DG District 58. At Zach Frazier Orthodontics, we sincerely believe in giving back to the community, and we will continue this mission moving forward as your hometown orthodontist.

Keep smiling : )
Dr. Zach

On Friday, October 4th Whittier PTA hosted its first Color Run at the elementary school. The event kicked off with some pre-race dance performances by local DG District 58 kids. After that - it was race time! As we all ran around the school, no white t-shirt was spared from the colors. I cannot believe how fast these kids run - they are quick : )

It was great to see so many local vendors sponsor the event, and it is always fun to see so many of our smiles out there having fun. We are very proud to support Whittier PTA throughout the year at various events, and we are extremely dedicated to supporting all of our DG District 58 kiddos. As Downers Grove's hometown orthodontist, I look forward to many more events to come in the future!

Great running, everyone!
- Dr. Zach

It was a rainy day in Downers Grove, but the Lester PTA Running of the Leopards was still game-on! The 10th Annual Fun Run had a great crowd, and it was so much fun to see so many kids and parents participating. Despite the weather, there were still so many people that were out along the course to cheer on all the racers, showing how strong the Lester community supports one another. It was amazing : )

Our office is proud to support all of the Downers Grove District 58 Elementary schools, and we look forward to many more this school year. We are proud to be Downers Grove's hometown orthodontist providing braces and Invisalign® treatment to kids, teens and adults.

Great to see everyone!
Dr. Zach

Many adults are seeing the awesome benefits from straight teeth. From improved esthetics and self-confidence to improved oral hygiene and maintenance, it is clear that well aligned teeth are an important piece of keeping you feeling healthy and young.

With Invisalign® treatment as a popular choice for adult orthodontic treatment, it is becoming more popular than ever to have straight teeth as an adult. However, there is a common misconception that Invisalign® is doing the work to move the teeth. The truth is this – the doctors getting the best results in the shortest amount of time are the experienced orthodontists with skills in all aspects of straightening teeth and correcting bites.

To get a feel for your doctor’s skill and comfort using Invisalign® to straighten your teeth, here are four questions to ask before choosing the best person to help you with your smile.

1. Are you a specialist at moving teeth?

   Orthodontists are the only dental specialists with professionally, certified training to move teeth. This high-level training extends 2+ years after dental school. If you want to get a better smile and straighter teeth with Invisalign®, why wouldn’t you go to an expert in the field?

2. How many cases have you treated like mine?

   As an orthodontist, I have changed thousands (yes, thousands!) of smiles over my career. Whether it is braces or Invisalign®, there is probably not much I haven’t seen already. Once again, you should look for someone with vast experience in straightening teeth.

3. What if Invisalign® doesn’t work on my teeth?

   To be honest, I am not perfect, and no dentist can be perfect. However, if something isn’t going as planned or a tooth is not moving as expected, I have additional tools and skills to get you to the finish line. If all your doctor knows is Invisalign® and that doesn’t work, what will you do when the result is not what you expected?

4. If you wanted to straighten your teeth or your child’s teeth, who would you go to?

   Besides treating many dentists and their family members, we often treat their team members and their team members’ children! When it comes to getting the best result, ask your family dentist who they prefer for their orthodontic care : )

Keep these in mind as you start your journey to a new smile. Our office offers complimentary consultations to anyone considering orthodontic treatment. So if you want to see what I can do for your smile using Invisalign®, give us a call or send us a message via text or email!

- Dr. Zach

Downers Grove has always been a special place for me. I grew up here, went to the local schools, and even went to Downers Grove North right down the street from my office. One thing that strikes me is how many people share my story: they grew up here and now they have come back to raise their families in DG as well. It truly speaks volumes about our community.
Since opening my practice in 2015, I have been overwhelmed by the amount of the local support. I’m truly grateful for all the families that have come to visit me and have trusted me with their kids, as well the adults that have come to visit me that trust me with their smile. Now, we’re creating hundreds of smiles every year for people in the area, and it’s truly been a special ride. In 2018, we donated over $10,000 back into the community in the forms of sponsorships to PTAs, schools, churches and sporting events. In 2019, we want to make that even bigger by continuing our support. So look for us around town - you may see us at a local restaurant or at a local event. We truly love this community, and we truly want you to love your smile : )
I'm proud to be your hometown orthodontist!
- Dr. Zach

Why is the community so important to me? It's simple - I love to support the families that trust us with their smiles. As a lifetime resident of Downers Grove, it has been amazing to come back to my hometown and give back so much. I truly believe that it is part of what makes us unique as we support the community more than any orthodontist in the area.

Over the past year, we have sponsored and donated to over 25 local organizations, PTAs, sports teams, and school districts. Not only that, I am constantly looking for opportunities to support local small businesses through partnerships as well as attend the local events we support.

As we continue to spread awesome smiles in Downers Grove and the surrounding area, look for our name around town. If you have an organization that is looking to team up with us, feel free to reach out anytime. My job is to straighten teeth and create beautiful, healthy smiles; but as Downers Grove's top orthodontist, my mission is to make my community a better place. See you around town : )

- Dr. Zach