What Is Orthodontics and Who Benefits?
Orthodontics is the area of dentistry that diagnoses, prevents, and corrects issues with tooth and jaw alignment. Many patients pursue orthodontic care to improve the esthetics of their smile, but treatment also protects long-term oral health. At our Silver Spring dental office, we provide comprehensive dental care that goes beyond orthodontics—helping patients and families maintain healthy, confident smiles through a full range of general, cosmetic, and restorative services.
Common Orthodontic Concerns
Patients may benefit from orthodontic treatment if they experience:
- Crowded or overlapping teeth
- Gaps or excessive spacing between teeth
- Overbites, underbites, or crossbites
- Open bite that affects chewing or speech
- Relapse after previous orthodontics
- Cosmetic alignment goals for a more confident smile
These concerns can be addressed with braces or clear aligners, depending on your unique needs.
Braces vs. Clear Aligners: A Quick Overview
For decades, braces have been used to correct even complex orthodontic problems. They rely on brackets and wires to gradually move teeth into place. Clear aligners, by contrast, use a series of removable trays that gently shift teeth over time.
Both approaches can deliver excellent results, but many adults and teens today prefer aligner-based orthodontics for their comfort and convenience. Since clear aligners also enhance the appearance of your smile throughout treatment, they are often considered part of cosmetic dentistry, blending aesthetics with function.
Why Our Practice Emphasizes Clear Aligner Orthodontics
At our office, we focus on aligner orthodontics rather than traditional braces. This reflects our commitment to patient comfort, esthetics, and modern technology. We proudly offer Invisalign and CandidPro so patients can choose the system that best fits their lifestyle.
How Orthodontics Works in Our Office
Starting orthodontics does not need to feel intimidating. Our office combines advanced technology and personalized care to smooth the process from day one.
Your First Orthodontics Visit
During your initial consultation, Dr. Bikoi will evaluate your teeth and bite, take digital impressions, and discuss your goals. This allows us to recommend the most appropriate aligner system for your case.
Life During Treatment
Clear aligners are worn for 20 to 22 hours each day, removed only for eating, drinking, and brushing. Patients appreciate enjoying their favorite foods without restrictions, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and smiling confidently throughout treatment.
Invisalign vs. CandidPro: Side-By-Side for Clear Aligner Orthodontics
Invisalign and CandidPro are both proven clear aligner systems. Choosing the right one depends on case complexity, monitoring preferences, and lifestyle needs.
Case Complexity and Capabilities
Invisalign has been used for many years and is often suitable for complex orthodontic movements. CandidPro is generally best suited for mild to moderate cases requiring fewer adjustments. At your consultation, we will determine which system can effectively achieve your goals.
Appointments and Remote Monitoring
One key difference between the two systems involves monitoring. Invisalign treatment usually includes regular in-person check-ins, while CandidPro often incorporates remote progress checks using digital tools. This flexibility allows patients to spend less time in the office while receiving dentist-directed care.
Comfort, Esthetics, and Daily Wear
Both aligner systems are nearly invisible, smooth against the cheeks, and removable for meals. Comfort is a significant advantage compared to braces; patients often adapt quickly to wearing aligners full-time.
Treatment Time and Compliance
Treatment timelines vary depending on the complexity of tooth movement and how consistently aligners are worn. Patients often complete treatment in several months to about a year, though complex needs may require longer.
Who Is a Candidate for Clear Aligner Orthodontics?
Not everyone needs traditional braces to achieve their goals. Many adults and teens with mild to moderate orthodontic concerns are excellent candidates for clear aligners. Ideal candidates are committed to wearing trays as directed and value a discreet orthodontic solution.
Not Sure Which Path Is Right?
Dr. Bikoi will evaluate your bite and alignment before recommending Invisalign, CandidPro, or a referral to an orthodontist if braces are the better choice. Our goal is to ensure that you receive safe, effective treatment tailored to your needs.
Orthodontics and Your Overall Smile Goals
Orthodontics is often just one part of a bigger smile transformation. Straighter teeth make it easier to maintain good oral hygiene and can enhance the results of cosmetic treatments such as whitening or a smile makeover.
For patients who want a comprehensive approach, we may recommend combining orthodontics with additional services from our cosmetic dentistry options.
Why Choose Dr. Bikoi for Orthodontics With Aligners
Dr. Esther de Chantal Ngo Bikoi combines extensive dental training with a patient-first philosophy. At Artistic Family Dentistry of Silver Spring, we deliver orthodontic care in a comfortable, spa-like setting, supported by advanced dental technology such as digital scanners. Patients appreciate our focus on function and esthetics and the convenience of aligner orthodontics designed to fit their lives.
FAQs: Orthodontics, Invisalign, and CandidPro
Ready to Explore Orthodontics in Silver Spring?
Straightening your teeth is one of the most effective ways to improve your smile and protect long-term dental health. Whether you are considering Invisalign or CandidPro, Dr. Bikoi and our team will guide you through every step.
Call us today at (240) 641-5828 or use our online booking form to schedule your orthodontics consultation.
