Orthodontics in Washington, DC
Capital Dental Sibley provides orthodontics services for patients who want a healthier bite and straighter teeth. Orthodontic care focuses on aligning teeth and guiding jaw growth to improve function, health, and appearance. If you have crowding, spacing, overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite, orthodontics can help. Many patients search for what is orthodontics because it covers more than straight teeth; the goal is a balanced bite that supports long-term oral health.
Treatment options include traditional braces, clear ceramic braces, lingual braces positioned behind the teeth, and clear aligners such as CandidPro. Each option uses gentle, controlled forces to move teeth into planned positions. The choice between clear aligners vs braces depends on bite complexity, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Benefits of Orthodontic Treatment
- Improved bite function for more comfortable chewing and speaking.
- Easier brushing and flossing, which may reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Balanced jaw alignment that can lower strain on teeth and joints.
- Durable results when combined with consistent retention habits.
- Enhanced smile esthetics that may support self-confidence.
How Orthodontic Treatment Works
Braces use brackets and wires to apply light pressure that shifts teeth over time. Understanding how braces work helps patients follow instructions that keep progress on track. Clear aligners move teeth through a planned series of trays you switch every one to two weeks. Regular check-ins ensure forces are adjusted safely and predictably.
The general steps are similar across options:
- Initial evaluation and records to map tooth and jaw positions.
- Personalized plan that details movements, timing, and appliances.
- Active treatment with periodic visits to review progress.
- Retention phase with a custom retainer to hold results.
What to Expect
Most patients feel mild pressure for a few days after starting treatment or after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relief and soft foods can help. Treatment length varies with case complexity, patient age, and appliance choice. When people ask how long does orthodontic treatment take, a common range is 12 to 24 months, though simpler cases may finish sooner and complex corrections may take longer.
Oral hygiene matters throughout care. Brush after meals, floss daily, and use fluoride toothpaste. With braces, avoid very hard, sticky, or chewy foods that can loosen brackets. With aligners, wear trays 20 to 22 hours a day and clean them as directed. After active treatment, orthodontic retention maintains your new alignment. Retainers are worn as prescribed to prevent teeth from shifting.
For orthodontics services in Washington, DC, contact Capital Dental Sibley at 202-244-5792 to discuss your options or schedule a visit with our dentist, Dr. Stephen W. Varney, Dr. Parvati L. Gopalan, or Dr. Anabel Kelso.