Conveniently located to serve Arlington, Alexandria, and Washington DC
Expert Orthodontic Care for a Perfect Smile
More than just enhancing your smile, orthodontics with Invisalign in Arlington aims to correct oral problems. Orthodontic treatment can help align teeth and jaws, improving your smile and overall facial appearance.
Properly aligned teeth and jaws can improve bite function and speech. If you are searching for solutions to your dental issues, SKS Dental offers a range of oral procedures.
Orthodontics is a branch of dentistry specializing in diagnosing, preventing, and treating jaw, face, and bite irregularities (malocclusions*).
*Malocclusion is the technical term for teeth that don’t fit together correctly. Malocclusions not only affect the teeth but also the appearance of the face. Most malocclusions are inherited; however, some are due to acquired habits such as thumb sucking and tongue thrusting. The spacing left from an adult tooth being extracted or an early loss of a baby tooth can also contribute to a malocclusion.
Recent years have brought about many changes within the dental industry, specifically concerning orthodontic treatment and care. Now more than ever, patients are experiencing fewer incidences of cavities and missing teeth due to the heightened awareness of fluoride use and preventative dentistry. This increasing awareness of the health and look of a patient’s smile has fueled the desire for many to seek out orthodontia not only as a medical necessity but also for cosmetic reasons.
Benefits of Invisalign with Dr. Sabharwal
Dr. Sabharwal, an Invisalign Platinum Provider, offers digital scanning for Invisalign and conveniently serves Arlington, Alexandria, and Washington, D.C.
Invisalign is a modern, discreet, and comfortable approach to straightening teeth. The treatment involves using virtually invisible clear aligners.
With Invisalign, you can confidently smile during treatment. The aligners are made of smooth, BPA-free plastic that is gentle on the gums and cheeks.
Because they are removable, Invisalign aligners make maintaining oral hygiene and enjoying favorite foods easier without restrictions. Additionally, compared to conventional braces, Invisalign often requires fewer dental visits.
Dr. Sabharwal is a wonderful dentist! I would highly recommend her and have done so to all my friends. Her new office is bright and welcoming. Her staff are friendly and helpful. She is very patient with me – I’m nervous about going to the dentist- and I appreciate how she explains the procedures when I ask for more information. She also sees my kids- ages 4,9, and 77- and they enjoy going to visit her. She has a great manner with children and adults. We are so happy to have found such a great dentist!
Am I an Ideal Candidate for Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can benefit people of all ages, especially children and adolescents. Such issues are often identified during childhood, making early intervention beneficial.
Invisalign is suitable for many patients with mild to moderate orthodontic issues, including crowded teeth, gaps, overbites, underbites, and crossbites. Ideal candidates are committed to wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours daily and maintaining good oral hygiene.
While Invisalign is effective for several dental problems, severe cases might still require traditional braces. A consultation with Dr. Sabharwal will determine if Invisalign is the right choice for you.
Your Orthodontic Consultation
During the initial consultation, we will physically examine your jaw and teeth to determine the best treatment approach for your oral problems. You will also be required to take X-rays and impressions to assess your condition further. Additionally, we will review your medical history to check your overall health and eligibility for treatment.
When we have all the necessary information, we will sit down with you to discuss a treatment plan that includes other treatment options, the overall cost, and the estimated duration.
For those interested in Invisalign, Dr. Sabharwal will assess your dental needs and discuss your treatment goals. Our team will take digital scans or impressions of your teeth to create a personalized treatment plan.
Orthodontic Treatment Procedures
Invisalign uses a series of clear, removable aligners to shift teeth. They are nearly invisible and offer more flexibility than traditional braces.
Some patients may require additional appliances, like headgear or palate expanders, to correct more complex issues. The extent of the condition determines how long the treatment will last overall.
Dr. Sabharwal is an Invisalign Platinum Provider. SKS Dental offers digital scanning for Invisalign.
Once your custom aligners are ready, you’ll begin wearing a new set approximately every two weeks. Each aligner gradually shifts your teeth into the desired position.
Regular check-ups with Dr. Sabharwal will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments. Treatment duration varies but can last for 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case.
What to Expect After Orthodontic Treatment
Your recovery from orthodontic treatment varies. It involves an adjustment period, which lasts a few days. You may experience discomfort or soreness after adjustments.
Regular appointments are necessary to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.
After active treatment, retainers are often worn to maintain the results. This may be a removable or fixed retainer.
With Invisalign, there’s minimal recovery time. You might experience slight discomfort or pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, but this usually subsides within a few days.
Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and wearing a retainer after completing treatment is important for preserving your new smile. Invisalign aligners, which are easy to clean, also help minimize the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
How Much Does Orthodontic Treatment Cost?
The cost of orthodontic treatment varies based on several factors, including the type of treatment, its duration, and other procedures performed. Other treatments that might be provided during follow-up appointments will affect the overall price. Consult your provider to see whether your insurance can help with some of the costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
At What Age Should My Child Start Orthodontic Treatment?
Orthodontic treatment can begin at different ages, depending on the child’s development and tooth development (or dental needs). However, many orthodontists recommend an initial evaluation around the age of seven. This allows for the early identification of issues related to teeth alignment and jaw growth.
Will Orthodontic Treatment Be Painful or Uncomfortable?
While orthodontic treatment involves some discomfort, especially after adjustments, the pain is manageable. Modern techniques and materials have greatly improved comfort for patients undergoing smile enhancement procedures.
What Are the Potential Risks or Complications Associated With Orthodontic Procedures?
As with any dental procedure, risks exist, including minor tooth decay due to improper hygiene and gum irritation. In rare cases, it can also cause root damage. Regular follow-ups can prevent most complications from dental braces.
How Often Do I Need to Visit the Orthodontist During Treatment?
The frequency of visits can vary, but most patients see their orthodontist every four to six weeks for adjustments to improve teeth alignment and to monitor progress.
Can I Still Eat My Favorite Foods During Orthodontic Treatment?
Yes, Invisalign is removable, so you can still enjoy your favorite foods throughout your orthodontic treatment.
What Happens After My Orthodontic Treatment Is Complete?
After completing treatment, wearing a retainer is crucial to preserve the new position of your teeth. The duration of wearing a retainer will vary depending on individual cases.
Is Orthodontic Treatment Covered by Dental Insurance, and What Are My Financing Options?
Many dental insurance plans can help with the cost of Invisalign. Additionally, most orthodontic practices offer financing options to make treatment more accessible. Discuss with your insurance provider to learn more about your dental coverage.
Contact Us for Expert Orthodontic Care
Achieve an attractive, beaming smile with Invisalign in Arlington and address your underlying dental issues. Contact SKS Dental to schedule a consultation today.