Bruxism Diagnosis

Grinding of your teeth, also known as bruxism can have a variety of causes. Some experts view bruxism as nothing more than a habit. It can also be a result of the body’s reaction when the teeth do not line up or come together properly. If you experience signs and symptoms of bruxism, Dr. Cynthia Wong can provide you with an individualized treatment plan.

When diagnosing bruxism, Dr. Cynthia Wong may ask about your general dental health, what sources of stress you have in your life, and what medicines you take. She will then examine you, paying special attention to the muscles in and around your jaw. Additionally, Dr. Wong will look at your teeth for evidence of grinding. During this examination, she may check for tenderness in your jaw muscles and the jaw joint.

To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Different Reasons for Tooth Extractions

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, there are a number of reasons why a patient may need a tooth extracted. A very common reason involves a tooth that is too badly damaged, from trauma or decay, to be repaired. At Cynthia Wong Orthodontics, tooth extraction may be performed for orthodontic treatment. This is because people getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place. You’re probably most familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but other reasons for the procedure may include:

• Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.


• Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.

To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Propel Orthodontics for Faster Treatment

As technology advances, we like to advance with it to provide our patients with the best care possible. At Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, Dr. Cynthia Wong utilizes Propel Orthodontics to speed up orthodontic treatment time.

Propel Orthodontics is the method of using a minimally invasive device to create micro-osteoperforations in a patient’s gum tissue and bone tissue surrounding a tooth. This actually stimulates the patient’s biology to speed up the movement of the teeth.

When the perforations are made, the body responds by increasing blood flow and cytokine to the area. This allows the tooth to move quicker in response to the pressure the braces are continually applying. The perforations are micro, so the patient can continue their day afterwards as they would normally.

Since the patient’s teeth are moving faster, this equates to reducing the overall treatment time and results in fewer appointments. Propel Orthodontics can be added in combination with either braces or clear aligners like Invisalign. Propel can also be used from the beginning of treatment or added in at any time.

Straightening teeth creates a beautiful and healthy smile. To learn more about the orthodontics we provide here at Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, give our office a call at (708) 444-8341. More information can be found on our website, www.drcynthiawong.com.