Addressing crooked and misaligned teeth can not only improve the appearance of your smile but can also improve your oral health. Most adult patients with crooked teeth have no desire to wear traditional metal braces. However, Invisalign can be used instead of traditional metal braces.
Dr. Justin Deckard is a trusted and highly trained dentist that offers Invisalign in Washington, DC. His natural eye for balance and beauty makes him the ideal partner in your cosmetic dentistry journey. At DC Precision Dentistry, our goal is to help each of our patients achieve a beautiful smile through personalized dental care.
What is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a series of clear aligners that gradually reposition your teeth over the course of your treatment. You can remove the aligners to brush your teeth, floss your teeth, as well as to eat and drink with no restrictions.
Invisalign is ideal for teen and adult patients with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns. Most patients opt for this clear aligner system because it is more discreet than metal braces. They are also more comfortable and offer an easy solution for crooked teeth.
It is important to note that not all orthodontic concerns are equal. Some patients with advanced orthodontic concerns may require the specialized care of an orthodontist. Dr. Deckard will work with patients to create a specialized orthodontic treatment plan for advanced orthodontic cases. In most cases, Invisalign can be effectively used to address:
- Gaps between teeth
- Underbite
- Overbite
- Overcrowding
- Crossbite
- Open Bite
- To achieve a straighter smile
How Does Invisalign Work?
Using 3-D dental technology and digital imaging, Dr. Deckard will quickly capture images of your teeth. Using these images, he will create accurate measurements and molds of your teeth to ensure a precise fit. Invisalign aligner trays are created using SmartTrack material which is specially designed with a patient’s comfort and needs in mind.
Each week, you switch to a new set of aligners. With each new set, your teeth will slowly move into proper alignment. You need to wear each set of aligners for at least 22 hours per day for the best results. The length of your treatment and the number of aligners you need will depend on your specific issues.
On average, treatment lasts between 12-18 months. However, this will vary from patient to patient. Dr. Deckard will explain all aspects of your treatment during a visit to our Washington, DC dentist office.
Patients have the added benefit of addressing their orthodontic concerns more discreetly than ever before. The Invisalign braces are clear, removable, and will not irritate the gum tissue. This will allow patients to straighten their teeth without discomfort.
Invisalign FAQs
How do I care for my Invisalign aligners?
Caring for your aligners is easy. You should rinse and brush them every night. Using your toothbrush, gently brush your aligner to keep it fresh and clean. To help reduce the amount of food that gets stuck in your teeth, we recommend you brush after you eat and before putting your aligners back in.
Can Invisalign damage teeth?
Invisalign clear aligners contain safe materials that do not harm or stain teeth. They are clear and breathable. You can also remove them if you notice odd discomfort or sharp pain. If they cause pain, contact your dentist right away. To reduce your chances of tooth decay and other diseases, you have to wash them daily.
How long do you have to wear Invisalign?
This will depend on the severity of your malocclusion. If you have minor crooked teeth issues, such as having just one or two misaligned teeth, you may not have to wear the aligners for longer than a year. Although, you may need to wear the aligners for up to 3 years if you have moderate to major alignment issues.
What can I eat/drink while wearing Invisalign?
Invisalign treatment does not restrict you to a specific diet since you can take the aligners off before you eat. Just be sure to brush your teeth if you eat very sticky foods before putting the aligners back on. We always recommend at least rinsing your mouth before putting your Invisalign aligners on.
Does Invisalign work permanently?
Yes, Invisalign can work permanently. With proper care and maintenance, Invisalign can provide lasting results that are comparable to traditional braces. The aligners move the teeth slowly and gradually in their desired positions until they align permanently. It is important to wear the aligners as directed by your orthodontist for the best results.
Is Invisalign painful?
Invisalign treatment is typically not painful. However, some patients may experience discomfort in the first few days of wearing the aligners. This is normal as your teeth are slowly adjusting to their desired position. Any discomfort should be mild and generally fades within a few days. If you experience severe or ongoing pain, you should contact your orthodontist or dentist.
Schedule A Consultation for Invisalign in Washington, DC
To learn more about Invisalign, visit DC Precision Dentistry. Washington, DC dentist Dr. Deckard works with patients one on one to design a personalized solution based on their needs. If you would like to achieve a straighter smile, consider Invisalign invisible braces. To schedule a consultation, call (202) 851-7554 or request an appointment online.