The dreaded "adolescent" metal braces are not the only way of straightening teeth these days. If you’ve been wondering whether to try and get your teeth straightened, Invisalign® will do it more easily than you would have dreamed possible.
Instead of a mouthful of metal for a year or two, you would have a series of clear, removable aligners – trays, much like teeth whitening trays. You would wear each pair of trays for two weeks, then put aside the current pair and start wearing the next pair in the series.
For an initial consultation, please call 703-319-6990 Softouch Dental Care at to discuss Invisalign options.
How is Invisalign Customized to fit my mouth?
Invisalign aligners are made just for you! Our dentist will capture an accurate image of your teeth that will be used to design your personal and precise-fitting trays. In fact, they are even customized down to your unique gumline. Invisalign aligners are individually trimmed to offer you enhanced comfort. This step also ensures that your trays have a seamless appearance.
How does Invisalign compare to Traditional Braces?
Invisalign has several unique advantages that make it a popular alternative to traditional braces. To begin with, it is a discreet treatment that is virtually invisible in your mouth. Some people may not even notice that you are wearing your clear aligners. Plus, it can be easily removed for eating, drinking, and flossing. If desired, you can even take out your trays for special occasions.
What’s more, Invisalign patients don’t have to worry about emergency visits for broken wires or loose brackets. And they don’t have to deal with food restrictions during orthodontic treatment.
Getting Started with Invisalign
Dr. Michael Chung will determine whether or not Invisalign is a good option for you by examining your teeth and bite. In some cases, traditional braces are still the best option. But, if you and he decide to go ahead with Invisalign, he would start by examining the exact positioning of your teeth. He would take molds both upper and lower, and digital photos of your teeth.
The Invisalign manufacturer would then make a CT scan of the molds, creating a 3D model. Computer Aided Design (CAD) software would be used to simulate your teeth’s movements at each stage of treatment. After Dr. Chung approves this plan, the company would make your series of aligners.
Each pair of aligners would nudge certain teeth in the right direction, following on from the nudging done by the previous pair of aligners. By the end of the series, your teeth will have been gradually moved to better positions – good for both your smile and your bite.
Patient Testimonial
"When Dr. Chung changed my whole smile, my whole attitude changed. Thank you so much. And on top of that your whole team rocks; they are the best and I appreciate all that they did."
- Fred
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign trays are designed to apply constant and gentle force. Instead of making any harsh or hasty adjustments, they will gradually shift your teeth into their proper position. That said, some patients do experience some discomfort during their first few days with a new set of aligners. It may feel like there is some pressure on your teeth, which is a sign that your trays are working.
These measures can help relieve any soreness from Invisalign:
- Drink cold water
- Suck on ice cubes
- Apply a cold compress to your face
- Avoid hard and chewy foods
- Take over-the-counter painkillers
How often you should wear your Invisalign
You need to wear Invisalign trays for 20 to 22 hours a day to get the best results. Wearing them any less than that can slow down your treatment plan and make it take longer to straighten your smile. As a general rule, try not to take them out unless you need to eat, drink, brush, or floss.
Of course, you can also remove them to play sports or instruments. You can take them out for special occasions, too. But keep in mind that you should be aiming for that 20 to 22-hour mark.
How long does Invisalign take to show results?
Invisalign will start transforming your smile from your very first fitting appointment. You may begin to notice results from your Invisalign treatment within several weeks. However, it can sometimes take months before you really see anything different about the way your smile looks.
A great thing about Invisalign is that it tends to work faster than traditional braces. The average treatment time is 12 to 18 months. Our dentist will give you a better treatment time estimate.
Convenient and Discreet
For an adult with a busy professional or social life, or both, Invisalign is a superb answer to the problem of crooked teeth. The aligners are clear and almost invisible, so most people would never realize you were using them unless they looked very closely.
You would remove the aligners at mealtimes and for brushing and flossing. That means you can eat all your favorite foods and don’t have the problem of sticky foods getting caught on braces. You could even remove them on special occasions when you want to look your best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Dental Issues Can Invisalign Effectively Treat?
Invisalign can address a range of orthodontic concerns by gradually moving teeth into better positions. It may be appropriate for crooked or misaligned teeth and certain bite problems. Some cases are better treated with traditional braces, so Dr. Chung will examine your teeth and bite to determine whether Invisalign can achieve your goals.
How Much Does Invisalign Cost in Northern Virginia?
The cost of Invisalign varies because each treatment plan is customized to the patient. Factors such as the complexity of the orthodontic problem and the extent of treatment needed can affect the overall cost. Softouch Dental Care can provide specific pricing after evaluating your teeth and developing your treatment plan.
Can Teens and Younger Patients Use Invisalign Instead of Braces?
Invisalign may be an option for some younger patients, but candidacy depends on their teeth, bite, and orthodontic needs. Because the aligners must be worn 20 to 22 hours a day, consistently following the treatment plan is also important. Dr. Chung can determine whether clear aligners or traditional braces are more appropriate.
Will I Need Attachments With Invisalign?
Some Invisalign treatment plans use small attachments on certain teeth to help the aligners guide tooth movement. Whether attachments are necessary depends on the movements required to straighten your teeth. Dr. Chung can explain the features needed for your specific Invisalign plan.
What Happens if I Lose or Damage an Invisalign Aligner?
Contact Softouch Dental Care if you lose or damage an aligner, rather than moving ahead in your series on your own. The appropriate next step depends on where you are in treatment and how your teeth have progressed. Dr. Chung can determine how to keep your treatment on track.
Will I Need a Retainer After Invisalign Treatment?
The supplied page does not address retainers after Invisalign, so I would not add a specific patient-facing answer without confirming Softouch Dental Care's post-treatment protocol.
Can I Get Invisalign if I Have Crowns, Bridges, or Other Dental Work?
The supplied page does not discuss Invisalign treatment for patients with existing restorations. I would confirm Dr. Chung's approach before adding an answer about which types of dental work are compatible with Invisalign.
Schedule Your Initial Consultation Today!
The first step is an initial consultation at our office. Please call 703-319-6990 or email Softouch Dental Care if you would like to set up an appointment with Dr. Chung about invisible braces. Dr. Chung believes strongly in patient education, and he will be glad to clearly answer all of your questions about Invisalign and other orthodontic treatment options.
We hope to meet with you soon. Our office serves Oakton, Tysons Corner, Reston, Vienna, Arlington, Fairfax and all of the Northern Virginia and Washington DC area.
