Does Invisalign Really Work McLean, VA

At Dental Center of Tysons Corner, we are regularly asked about Invisalign® and how effective it is at straightening teeth. This is an understandable question, because the process of using clear aligners is relatively new in comparison to wearing metal braces. As with any new technology, people often wonder, “Does Invisalign® really work?” and the answer is, yes. If you want a straight and beautiful smile without making it obvious that you are undergoing dental care, this is the best solution for you. As with any procedure, you will need to follow our instructions to ensure that your teeth move correctly and as quickly as possible. For example, aligners need to be worn for around 22 hours a day.

Does Invisalign® Require Special Care?

While removable, you must be careful to keep them in place for as long as possible in order to keep your treatment schedule on track. They need to come out while you eat, so they do not become damaged or warped. You should also remove them when drinking anything hot since that can also warp them. However, as soon as you are done eating and brushing your teeth, the aligners need to be replaced.

In our McLean, VA dental office, we recommend that you put your aligners in a special container we provide, so they are not accidentally thrown away. Too many people have put their aligners in napkins, only to find that they are gone after lunch. Replacing them quickly is important, so be sure to keep their case with you instead of taking them out at home and waiting until you come back to replace them. This will help you to stick with the 22 hours a day requirement and keep your straightening plan on schedule. Doing so will take your teeth from crooked to straight in a short period of time.

Invisalign by Dental Center

Does Invisalign® really work for adults?

Yes, Invisalign® was created for adult teeth. While braces are traditionally associated with children, the process of using clear aligners is better suited for adult teeth. This is because Invisalign® works using a series of clear aligners. Before the treatment starts, an impression will be taken of your teeth, along with measurements and pictures. These will then be used to create 3D images and project what your teeth will do when pressure is applied to certain teeth. The entire treatment plan will be created using high-tech computer software and input from our team of professionals. The Invisalign® lab will then make the aligners. Each aligner is designed to move specific teeth and to be worn for two weeks at a time before being switched out for the next one in the series. Since the aligners are created at the beginning of the process, it works best on adult teeth that are fully mature. Some older teens can also benefit from straightening their teeth with Invisalign®.

Does Invisalign® really work for people with a misaligned bite?

At Dental Center of Tysons Corner, we use Invisalign® to straighten teeth and to align the bite. It is a misconception that braces are the only way to address an overbite or underbite. While they are traditionally the most effective, aligners can correct a bite, as well. In order to find out if this process will work for yours, we recommend that you visit our McLean, VA dental office. Call (703) 827-9250 to schedule a consultation so we can examine you, take X-rays, and determine whether or not Invisalign® is right for you. If your bite needs more adjustment than what aligners can offer, braces may be necessary or even oral surgery.

Does Invisalign® really work as well as traditional braces?

For the most part, yes. There are some cases where aligners are not able to address all of the issues with the teeth. In such a situation, we will let you know if Invisalign® can work to straighten teeth, but something else is needed to complete the process, or if you should try a different procedure altogether. In some situations, oral surgery may be necessary mid-way through. A perfect example is if your jaw is too far out of alignment to be corrected with either braces or aligners. In this case, patients start straightening their teeth and then have their jaw treated before finishing the procedure. These details are entirely dependent upon the position of your teeth and jaw, so we will let you know what to expect after your examination.

Check out what others are saying about our Invisalign® services on Yelp: Invisalign® McLean

Does Invisalign® really work for people who want to straighten teeth discreetly?

Yes, at Dental Center of Tysons Corner, we can supply you with clear aligners that are nearly invisible. They are made of a clear plastic that is durable, yet translucent. Few people will notice that you are straightening your teeth. It can take a few days to get used to wearing them, which could slightly influence your speech patterns. However, once you get used to wearing them, you will not have any issues. We usually recommend that you care for your aligners by rinsing them with water, brushing your teeth after eating, and cleaning your aligners with a special paste. You do not want to use traditional toothpaste, because it could scratch the surface of your aligners and turn them from invisible to visible. If you want to straighten your teeth discretely, be sure to exercise caution when cleaning and caring for your aligners. When you visit our McLean, VA dental office, we can provide you with additional suggestions for how to take care of them.

Are there any activities that cannot be done while wearing aligners?

You should be able to complete all of your activities while wearing aligners, except for eating and brushing your teeth. You need to take out your aligners while eating a meal, which means that you need to plan for snacking in order to prevent your aligners from coming out too frequently. The same holds true for when you are drinking hot coffee or tea, since the heat can warp the aligners. If you are playing aggressive sports, you may also want to remove them. However, we will make specific recommendations after discussing the sports you play or any other activities you engage in

How do I get started with Invisalign®?

Call 703-827-9250 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Chaudhry.

Questions Answered on This Page

Yes, Invisalign® can be effective for adults who are looking to correct their teeth alignment issues. Invisalign® is a type of orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually move teeth into their desired positions. These aligners are custom-made for each individual’s treatment plan and are virtually invisible when worn.

Invisalign® is often preferred by adults for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: The clear aligners are discreet and less noticeable than traditional metal braces, making them a popular choice for adults who may be self-conscious about their appearance during treatment.

2. Removability: Invisalign® aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This allows for more flexibility in maintaining oral hygiene and enjoying a variety of foods.

3. Comfort: The smooth plastic aligners are designed to be more comfortable than the brackets and wires of traditional braces. They are less likely to cause irritation to the cheeks and gums.

4. Convenience: Invisalign® appointments are typically less frequent and shorter than those for traditional braces. This can be advantageous for adults with busy schedules.

5. Predictable Results: Invisalign® treatment uses advanced computer imaging technology to plan and visualize the movement of teeth. This can provide patients with a clear understanding of the expected treatment outcome.

However, the success of Invisalign® treatment depends on various factors, including the complexity of the orthodontic issues being addressed and the patient’s commitment to wearing the aligners as instructed. Compliance is important – for Invisalign® to be effective, aligners should be worn for the recommended 20 to 22 hours a day and changed according to the treatment plan.

It’s important for adults considering Invisalign® treatment to consult with an experienced orthodontist or dentist who can assess their specific needs and determine if Invisalign® is a suitable option. Not all orthodontic cases can be effectively treated with Invisalign®, especially those that require more significant or complex movements. Your orthodontic provider will be able to provide personalized guidance based on your individual situation.

Whether Invisalign® is better than traditional braces depends on various factors, including the individual’s orthodontic needs, preferences, and lifestyle. Both Invisalign® and traditional braces have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comparison to help you make an informed decision:

Advantages of Invisalign®:

1. Aesthetic Appeal: Invisalign® aligners are clear and virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for individuals who are concerned about the appearance of metal braces.

2. Removability: Invisalign® aligners can be removed for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing. This makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene and enjoy a wider range of foods.

3. Comfort: The smooth plastic aligners of Invisalign® are generally more comfortable than the brackets and wires of traditional braces. They are less likely to cause irritation to the cheeks and gums.

4. Predictable Results: Invisalign® treatment uses advanced computer imaging to plan the movement of teeth, providing patients with a clear visualization of the expected treatment outcome.

5. Convenience: Invisalign® appointments are typically shorter and less frequent compared to appointments for adjusting traditional braces.

Advantages of Traditional Braces:

1. Effective for Complex Cases: Traditional braces are often more effective for addressing complex orthodontic issues, such as severe misalignments, bite problems, and significant tooth rotations.

2. No Compliance Required: Unlike Invisalign®, which requires patients to wear the aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day, traditional braces are always working to straighten teeth, regardless of patient compliance.

3. No Lost or Misplaced Aligners: With traditional braces, there’s no risk of losing or misplacing aligners since the brackets and wires are fixed to the teeth.

4. Treatment Control: Orthodontists have more control over the movement of teeth with traditional braces, which can be beneficial for precise adjustments.

5. Suitable for All Ages: While Invisalign® is commonly associated with adults and older teenagers, traditional braces can be used for patients of all ages.

Ultimately, the decision between Invisalign® and traditional braces should be based on the advice of a qualified orthodontist or dentist. They will assess your orthodontic needs, discuss your preferences, and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for you. In some cases, a combination of both methods might even be used to achieve the best results. It’s important to prioritize the effectiveness of treatment and choose the option that aligns with your lifestyle and comfort level.

Yes, Invisalign® is designed to be discreet and nearly invisible when worn. The aligners are made from a clear, transparent plastic material that fits snugly over your teeth. This makes them much less noticeable than traditional metal braces, which use visible brackets and wires.

The transparency of Invisalign® aligners allows your natural tooth color to show through, making them blend in with your smile. This discreet appearance is one of the main reasons why many people, especially adults and older teenagers, choose Invisalign® over traditional braces. It allows them to undergo orthodontic treatment without feeling self-conscious about their appearance.

It’s important to note that while Invisalign® aligners are very discreet, they may still be slightly visible from very close distances or in certain lighting conditions. However, for most everyday interactions, they will go unnoticed by others.

People Also Ask

The duration for which you need to wear Invisalign® aligners can vary depending on the complexity of your orthodontic case, the specific treatment plan outlined by your orthodontist, and how well you comply with the treatment guidelines. In general, the treatment time with Invisalign® can range from a few months to a couple of years.

Here are some general guidelines regarding aligner wear:

1. Consistent Wear: To achieve the best results, it’s important to wear your Invisalign® aligners for 20 to 22 hours a day. This means you should only remove them for eating, drinking (except for water), brushing, and flossing.

2. Aligner Changes: You will receive a series of aligners, each designed to move your teeth progressively. You will typically switch to a new set of aligners every 1 to 2 weeks, as directed by your orthodontist.

3. Orthodontist’s Guidance: Your orthodontist will provide a treatment plan that includes the estimated duration of your treatment. However, the actual time may vary based on how your teeth respond to the treatment.

4. Check-Ups: You’ll have regular check-up appointments with your orthodontist to monitor your progress and ensure that your teeth are moving according to the treatment plan.

5. Complexity: The complexity of your orthodontic issues plays a significant role in determining the treatment duration. Mild cases might take a shorter time, while more complex cases might require a longer treatment period.

It’s important to follow your orthodontist’s instructions closely to ensure that your treatment progresses as planned. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment duration, aligner wear, or progress, it’s best to discuss them with your orthodontist. They will be able to provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation.

One of the advantages of Invisalign® aligners is that they are removable, which means you have more flexibility with your diet compared to traditional braces. However, there are still some important guidelines to follow to ensure the success of your treatment and protect both your aligners and your teeth:

1. Remove Before Eating: Before eating or drinking anything other than water, you should remove your Invisalign® aligners. This prevents food particles from getting trapped between the aligners and your teeth.

2. Brush Before Reinserting: After eating, make sure to brush your teeth and rinse your aligners thoroughly before putting them back in. This helps maintain good oral hygiene and prevents staining or odors on the aligners.

3. Avoid Certain Foods: While you can enjoy a wider range of foods since the aligners are removable, it’s still a good idea to avoid very sticky or hard foods that could damage the aligners or cause discomfort. Additionally, try to avoid sugary foods and drinks that can lead to cavities.

4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water with your aligners in is generally fine, but it’s a good practice to rinse your mouth and clean the aligners after consuming anything other than water.

5. Limit Snacking: Frequent snacking may require you to remove and clean your aligners more frequently, which can be inconvenient. Try to stick to your meal schedule as much as possible.

6. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Proper oral hygiene is essential to keep your teeth and aligners clean and healthy. Brush and floss regularly, and clean your aligners as recommended by your orthodontist.

Remember, every patient’s treatment plan is unique, and your orthodontist will provide specific instructions based on your case. Following these guidelines will help you continue eating a variety of foods while ensuring that your Invisalign® treatment remains effective. If you have any doubts about which foods are safe or how to care for your aligners, consult your orthodontist for guidance.

Yes, your teen can wear Invisalign® aligners during various activities, including sports. The removable nature of Invisalign® aligners provides flexibility for participating in sports and other physical activities. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment:

1. Protective Gear: If your teen is involved in contact sports or activities that carry a risk of impact to the mouth, it’s advisable to wear a mouthguard. Your orthodontist can recommend a suitable mouthguard that can be worn over the aligners to provide protection.

2. Removal for Certain Activities: For activities where there’s a higher chance of getting hit in the mouth, such as wrestling or martial arts, it might be safer to remove the aligners and wear a regular mouthguard.

3. Proper Hygiene: After participating in any activity, including sports, your teen should remove the aligners, brush their teeth, and clean the aligners before putting them back in. This helps maintain good oral hygiene and prevents the buildup of bacteria.

4. Hydration: While it’s generally safe to drink water with the aligners in, your teen should clean the aligners afterward to prevent odors or staining.

5. Communication: Make sure your teen communicates with their orthodontist about their participation in sports and any concerns or discomfort they may have while wearing aligners during activities.

6. Cases with Attachments: If your teen’s Invisalign® treatment involves attachments (small tooth-colored bumps attached to certain teeth to help with alignment), your orthodontist may provide specific guidance on how to best protect them during activities.

It’s important to note that while Invisalign® aligners offer more flexibility than traditional braces during physical activities, it’s still essential to prioritize their oral health and treatment plan. Encourage your teen to follow their orthodontist’s recommendations and communicate any issues they encounter. If your teen has specific questions about wearing aligners during sports, consult their orthodontist for personalized guidance.

Definition of Invisalign® Terminology

Aligner Trays With Invisalign® treatment, the patient will receive a series of aligner trays and swap out each one for the next one in the series every two weeks in order to gradually straighten the teeth.

Blue Compliance Indicator (Invisalign® Teen): The blue compliance indicator is a small blue dot on the aligners that will fade from blue to clear in order to indicate if the patient is wearing the aligner for the proper amount of time and where the patient is in the Invisalign® process.

CLIN Check® Software: ClinCheck® software allows professionals to map out the straightening process the patient’s teeth will go through with Invisalign® in great detail.

Gum Linate: gum line is the line in the mouth where the teeth and gums meet. If a patient struggles with gum recession, then the gum tissue around the teeth may begin to wear away.

Incisal Ridges: Incisal ridges are the portion of the crown of the tooth that makes up the incisal portion and can be a direct cause of overbite if they are extended too far.

iTero Element® Scanner An iTero Element® scanner allows professionals to create a 3D image of the patient’s teeth in minutes and predict what it will take to move the teeth into proper alignment.

Malocclusion: Malocclusion is the condition in which the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the bite is closed. Conditions of malocclusion can include overbite, underbite, crossbite and open bite; all of which are treatable with Invisalign.

Overbite: An overbite is a type of malocclusion that occurs when the upper teeth jut out over the lower teeth, covering them and causing other issues.

Polyurethane Resin: Polyurethane Resin is a USP Class VI medical grade, high molecular weight compound that makes up the Invisalign® aligners.

SmartForce Attachments: SmartForce attachments are small attachments that professionals place on the patient’s teeth before placing aligners to help move the teeth.

Smart Track® Material: Smart Track® material is in Invisalign® aligners to increase comfort, improve control of movement, increases the speed of treatment and applies a gentle force to the teeth over time.

Smile–Scan: Smile-Scan analyzes the way a patient smiles by measuring the position of the mouth and eyes before giving a score.

Viera® Retainers: Vivera® retainers are a type of retainer that consists of clear plastic material and helps to maintain orthodontic corrections after a treatment.

Helpful Related Links

• American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015
• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015
• Invisalign®. How Invisalign Works. 2015
• Invisalign®. Take the Smile Assessment. 2015
• WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015

About our business, license, and website security

• Dental Center of Tysons Corner was established in 2010.
• We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
• We serve patients from the following counties: Fairfax County and Arlington County
• We serve patients from the following cities: McLean, Tysons, Arlington, Vienna, Falls Church, Annandale, Alexandria, Fairfax, Oakton and Reston
• VA (License #401007713). View License Information and Specifics
• National Provider Identifier Database (1174687909). View NPI Registry Information
• Health grades. View Background Information and Reviews
• Norton Safe Web. View Details
• Trend Micro Site Safety Center. View Details

Does Invisalign Really work? McLean, VA

At the Dental Center of Tysons Corner, we are regularly asked about Invisalign® and how effective it is at straightening teeth. This is an understandable question because the process of using clear aligners is relatively new in comparison to wearing metal braces. As with any new technology, people often wonder, “Does Invisalign® really work?” and the answer is yes. If you want a straight and beautiful smile without making it obvious that you are undergoing dental care, this is the best solution for you. As with any procedure, you will need to follow our instructions to ensure that your teeth move correctly and as quickly as possible. For example, aligners need to be worn for around 22 hours a day.

Does Invisalign® require special care?

While they are removable, you must be careful to keep them in place for as long as possible in order to keep your treatment schedule on track. They need to come out while you eat, so they do not become damaged or warped. You should also remove them when drinking anything hot since that can also warp them. However, as soon as you are done eating and brushing your teeth, the aligners need to be replaced.

In our McLean, VA, dental office, we recommend that you put your aligners in a special container we provide, so they are not accidentally thrown away. Too many people have put their aligners in napkins, only to find that they are gone after lunch. Replacing them quickly is important, so be sure to keep their case with you instead of taking them out at home and waiting until you come back to replace them. This will help you stick with the 22-hour-a-day requirement and keep your straightening plan on schedule. Doing so will take your teeth from crooked to straight in a short period of time.

Does Invisalign® really work for adults?

Yes, Invisalign® was created for adult teeth. While braces are traditionally associated with children, the process of using clear aligners is better suited for adult teeth. This is because Invisalign® works using a series of clear aligners. Before the treatment starts, an impression will be taken of your teeth, along with measurements and pictures. These will then be used to create 3D images and project what your teeth will do when pressure is applied to certain teeth. The entire treatment plan will be created using high-tech computer software and input from our team of professionals. The Invisalign® lab will then make the aligners. Each aligner is designed to move specific teeth and to be worn for two weeks at a time before being switched out for the next one in the series. Since the aligners are created at the beginning of the process, they work best on adult teeth that are fully mature. Some older teens can also benefit from straightening their teeth with Invisalign®.

Does Invisalign® really work for people with a misaligned bite?

At Dental Center of Tysons Corner, we use Invisalign® to straighten teeth and align the bite. It is a misconception that braces are the only way to address an overbite or underbite. While they are traditionally the most effective, aligners can correct a bite as well. In order to find out if this process will work for you, we recommend that you visit our McLean, VA, dental office. Call (703) 827-9250 to schedule a consultation so we can examine you, take X-rays, and determine whether or not Invisalign® is right for you. If your bite needs more adjustment than what aligners can offer, braces may be necessary, or even oral surgery.

Does Invisalign® really work as well as traditional braces?

For the most part, yes. There are some cases where aligners are not able to address all of the issues with the teeth. In such a situation, we will let you know if Invisalign® can work to straighten teeth, but something else is needed to complete the process, or if you should try a different procedure altogether. In some situations, oral surgery may be necessary midway through. A perfect example is if your jaw is too far out of alignment to be corrected with either braces or aligners. In this case, patients start straightening their teeth and then have their jaws treated before finishing the procedure. These details are entirely dependent upon the position of your teeth and jaw, so we will let you know what to expect after your examination.

Check out what others are saying about our Invisalign® services on Yelp: Invisalign® McLean

Does Invisalign® really work for people who want to straighten their teeth discreetly?

Yes, at Dental Center of Tysons Corner, we can supply you with clear aligners that are nearly invisible. They are made of a clear plastic that is durable yet translucent. Few people will notice that you are straightening your teeth. It can take a few days to get used to wearing them, which could slightly influence your speech patterns. However, once you get used to wearing them, you will not have any issues. We usually recommend that you care for your aligners by rinsing them with water, brushing your teeth after eating, and cleaning your aligners with a special paste. You do not want to use traditional toothpaste because it could scratch the surface of your aligners and turn them from invisible to visible. If you want to straighten your teeth discretely, be sure to exercise caution when cleaning and caring for your aligners. When you visit our McLean, VA, dental office, we can provide you with additional suggestions for how to take care of them.

Are there any activities that cannot be done while wearing aligners?

You should be able to complete all of your activities while wearing aligners, except for eating and brushing your teeth. You need to take out your aligners while eating a meal, which means that you need to plan for snacking in order to prevent your aligners from coming out too frequently. The same holds true for when you are drinking hot coffee or tea, since the heat can warp the aligners. If you are playing aggressive sports, you may also want to remove them. However, we will make specific recommendations after discussing the sports you play or any other activities you engage in.

How do I get started with Invisalign®?

Call 703-827-9250 and schedule a consultation with Dr. Chaudhry.

Questions Answered on This Page

Q. Does Invisalign® really work for adults?

Q. Is Invisalign® better than traditional braces?

Q. Is Invisalign® discreet?

People Also Ask

Q. How long do I need to wear the aligners for?

Q. Will I be able to continue eating what I want to eat?

Q. Can my teen wear aligners during other activities, such as sports?

Definition of Invisalign® Terminology

Aligner Trays With Invisalign® treatment, the patient will receive a series of aligner trays and swap out each one for the next one in the series every two weeks in order to gradually straighten the teeth.
Blue Compliance Indicator (Invisalign® Teen)The blue compliance indicator is a small blue dot on the aligners that will fade from blue to clear in order to indicate if the patient is wearing the aligner for the proper amount of time and where the patient is in the Invisalign® process.

CLIN Check® SoftwareClinCheck® software allows professionals to map out the straightening process the patient’s teeth will go through with Invisalign® in great detail. Gum The lining gum line is the line in the mouth where the teeth and gums meet. If a patient struggles with gum recession, then the gum tissue around the teeth may begin to wear away. Incisal Ridges Incisal ridges are the portion of the crown of the tooth that makes up the incisal portion and can be a direct cause of overbite if they are extended too far.iTero Element® Scanner An iTero Element® scanner allows professionals to create a 3D image of the patient’s teeth in minutes and predict what it will take to move the teeth into proper alignment. Malocclusion Malocclusion is a condition in which the upper and lower teeth do not meet properly when the bite is closed. Conditions of malocclusion can include overbite, underbite, crossbite, and open bite, all of which are treatable with Invisalign. Overbite An overbite is a type of malocclusion that occurs when the upper teeth jut out over the lower teeth, covering them and causing other issues. Polyurethane Resin Polyurethane Resin is a USP Class VI medical-grade, high-molecular-weight compound that makes up the Invisalign® aligners. StarForce AttachmentsSmartForce attachments are small attachments that professionals place on the patient’s teeth before placing aligners to help move the teeth.Smart Track® material is in Invisalign® aligners to increase comfort, improve control of movement, increase the speed of treatment, and apply a gentle force to the teeth over time. Smile–Scan Smile-Scan analyzes the way a patient smiles by measuring the position of the mouth and eyes before giving a score. Viera® retainers are a type of retainer that consists of clear plastic material and helps to maintain orthodontic corrections after a treatmen.

Helpful Related Links

• American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Terms. 2015

• American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2015
• WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2015

About our business, license, and website security

• Dental Center of Tysons Corner was established in 2010.
• We accept the following payment methods: American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa
• We serve patients from the following counties: Fairfax County and Arlington County
• We serve patients from the following cities: McLean, Tysons, Arlington, Vienna, Falls Church, Annandale, Alexandria, Fairfax, Oakton and Reston
• VA (License #401007713). View License Information and specifications.
• National Provider Identifier Database (1174687909) View NPI Registry Information
• Health grades View Background Information and Reviews
• Norton Safe Web. View Details
• Trend Micro Site Safety Center View Details