Dr. Lillian Obucina 2008 Review

One-on-one attention and care from start to finish can be a rare commodity in today's medical field. During my experience at a doctor's and dentist's office, I'm usually greeted by a receptionist who requests initial patient information, then met by a nurse or hygienist who administers standard tests or performs dental cleaning. It's only during the final minutes of my visit that I actually visit with the doctor. So, when I entered the dental practice of Dr. Lillian Obucina, I knew instantly that hers was unique.

Dr. Obucina was sitting at the front desk and introduced herself with a warm smile. We started talking about the purpose of my visit and my dental history. After a minute or so I realized she was the only person in the office, and I felt totally comfortable talking about my background. I surveyed her boutique space, aesthetically clean and furnished with the industry's latest technical tools and equipment, but I took special notice of the scenic views her high-rise office windows offered of Millennium Park and Cloud Gate, otherwise known as "The Bean."

She escorted me into the exam room where we discussed our next steps: a new patient check-up, a full set of x-rays and a consultation for Invisalign®, the Orthodontic industry's newest innovation for straightening teeth and perfecting smiles. We began with the requisite removal of plaque and tartar build-up, followed by teeth cleaning and gum examination. All looked well, and we moved onto the x-rays using "Digital Radiography." This form of radiology involves inserting the usual "bite wings" between the top and bottom teeth, but instead of snapping a photo and waiting for film to develop, Dr. Obucina pulled up the x-rays on her small laptop within seconds.

She explained that next to the "bite wing" is a plastic-covered "microcomputer" that fits inside the mouth. She moves this same little "chip" around the mouth, taking x-rays of the various bite angles. The digital laptop element allows her to zoom in on particular areas, highlight trouble spots, make x-rays available via email, as well as all the other advantages we love about digital photography over traditional film. Dr. Obucina added that she also prefers Digital Radiography because it's environmentally friendly - no x-ray solutions around the office or x-ray film and photo paper to dispose of.

Next, she took a small, long piece of gray plastic, about the size of a toothpick, and placed it next to the microcomputer and performed another series of x-rays. She explained that this piece contained "Periapical Film" that focuses on the roots of the teeth and examines any current bone and nerve damage as well as areas to be watchful of in the future. Thankfully, my oral health is in good shape, and we could now move onto the cosmetic aspect of my visit.

Beyond standard dental procedures, Dr. Obucina offers cosmetic options to her patients, including Invisalign®, a leading-edge technology for straightening teeth without cumbersome metal braces. Today, I would receive a "ClinCheck," the full patient consultation that evaluates whether Invisalign® is an appropriate treatment and if so, exactly what the process entails.

First, the Doctor sends the full-set of x-rays, two digital photographs of the face and smile, and a set of rubber dental impressions to the Invisalign® facility in Santa Clara, Califonia. Within two weeks, Dr. Obucina receives a series of QuickTime movies that she shows the patient on her computer. These digital animations use computer software to "predict" how the teeth will move and straighten over the course of treatment. If I were to proceed with the treatment, she explained she would obtain a set of several customized "aligners" - clear, lightweight yet deceivingly durable plastic sleeves that fit precisely over the top and bottom teeth - and I would wear each one for approximately two weeks. As she monitors the teeth's progression, we move onto the next aligner in the series. Depending on the patient, treatment can take between six months and two years and range in price from $1,000 to $6,000. Dr. Obucina also offers Invisalign® with CareCredit®, a no interest financing healthcare option with monthly payment plans.

At this point, Dr. Obucina and I discussed some of the other frequently asked questions about Invisalign®. For instance, the aligners must be removed to eat and drink (except water), it's recommended to wear them about 20 hours per day, and the treatment is effective for just about everyone who has crooked, crowded, overly spaced or shifted teeth, as well as those with over, under and cross bites. Plus, a "ClinCheck" is complimentary, so if you've ever considered getting braces but didn't want to become a "metal mouth" as an adult - this is a treatment worth the investment, both in time and money.

As I left the office, I felt like Dr. Obucina had covered all the bases. She tended to every aspect of my dental health, explaining everything in full detail along the way. Once all the necessary elements had been addressed, we could move onto aesthetics without leaving anything to chance. I sensed her overall dedication to her practice and to her patients and was totally confident I had received first-rate professional and personal care.

*Perk Alert: All of Dr. Obucina's new patients receive a complimentary Sonicare Toothbrush as a parting gift! (Please Note: This is not included in Pretty In Pink or Love You Promotions.)

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