FAQs

An orthodontist is a dentist that has pursued further education to specialize in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. This training usually takes two years and involves continual theoretical and clinical evaluation. By the end of the training, the dentist (now orthodontist) is an expert in diagnosing, preventing and treating teeth and jaw irregularities.

The American Dental Association advises parents to schedule an orthodontic consultation for their children when they are 7 years old. At this age, permanent teeth are beginning to erupt, and orthodontists can observe a tendency in facial development, so they have enough information to propose a treatment plan if there’s anything to guide or correct.

At Ashburn Orthodontics, patients are offered multiple treatment alternatives so that they can choose the one that better suits their needs and lifestyle. Dr Kortam has vast experience in orthodontic treatment with traditional braces, ceramic braces, Incognito™ hidden braces, and Invisalign® clear aligners.

The length of orthodontic treatment varies from patient to patient. Complex cases require more time than simple alignment treatments, and not all patients respond to orthodontic treatment in the same way, so it is hard to answer this question without seeing your smile. However, on average, most cases are solved in 20 months.

If you are wearing Invisalign clear aligners, you don’t need to change your routine at all. Just make sure to remove the aligners for eating and drinking, and keep brushing and flossing as usual. However, if you are undergoing traditional orthodontic treatment, you might need to be more careful with oral hygiene and avoid foods that can damage your braces (anything too hard, too chewy, or too sticky).

Absolutely! You still need to visit your general dentist at least once a year to maintain oral health. Oral hygiene gets complicated with braces, so it is common to start developing signs of gums disease, and if dental plaque is accumulated for a long time, it can cause dental decay.

Not at all. Although you might need some time to adjust your routine and some activities like playing an instrument or singing might feel awkward at first, you get used to braces over time. It is important to highlight that if you practice any sport that requires a mouthguard, you will need to get a new one after your braces are installed.

Just get in contact with our office at (703) 729-7210 or simply fill out the online form. Our front-desk team will be happy to schedule an appointment for you!