Orthodontics
Are misaligned teeth making you feel self-conscious? They might also increase your risk of cavities and other oral health problems.
At Fairfax Family Dental Care in Fairfax, VA, we offer two orthodontic solutions: braces and Invisalign®. Get in touch today to find out how we can give you a healthier and better-looking smile.
Emergency Orthodontics Contact Us for Quick Help
Orthodontic emergencies are unusual, but our team is always available in case you need orthodontic care on short-notice. The most common orthodontic emergencies are dislodged brackets or wires, which should be fixed as quickly as possible so that you don't lose any progress in your treatment. If your braces should ever suffer damage, give our Fairfax office a call at (703) 385-0303.
Why Fairfax Chooses Us for Orthodontics
Whether they need traditional braces or want to take advantage of the many benefits of Invisalign, Fairfax chooses our dentists because they are:
Highly Trained
Dr. Charles D. Kirksey and Dr. Milan Simanek maintain membership in the American Orthodontic Society and the International Association for Orthodontics. Their affiliation with these groups, as well as their commitment to continued education, keeps them exposed to all of the latest developments, technologies, and techniques in the field.
Affordable
We make orthodontic treatment as affordable as possible for our patients. We are committed to conservative dentistry, meaning we only recommend treatments that are absolutely necessary for your oral health. In addition, braces are covered by insurance in many cases. Finally, we accept CareCredit®, which offers manageable monthly payment plans for our patients.
Always Available
Our dentists are always available in case of a dental emergency. If you require immediate attention at any point during your treatment process, we will make every effort to see you as soon as possible.
The Cost of Treatment Ranges from $2,450 to $7,450
The cost of both traditional braces and Invisalign ranges from $2,450 to $7,450 at our Fairfax dental office. The complexity of your case is a major factor in the cost of your treatment, but there are others to consider. Fairfax Family Dental Care works with most insurance providers, and we also accept CareCredit® financing, which can make these beneficial treatments a fit for virtually any budget. We invite you to explore cost factors, the value of these treatments compared to alternatives, and more on our dedicated cost pages:
Parents Choose Us for Orthodontics
“I have been going here for over 20 years and both of my girls have had orthodontic work done here. We are extremely happy with everything and often recommend Family Dental Care.”
Allison, 5-Star Google Review
What Orthodontics Can Address
Orthodontics is a field of dentistry that diagnoses and treats dental and bite irregularities. Treatment may include braces, clear aligners like Invisalign®, or headgear. Orthodontic treatment addresses issues such as:
Orthodontics can straighten twisted or rotated teeth into proper alignment. Crooked teeth can make it difficult to properly brush and floss, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
Overcrowding can cause teeth to become crooked, jut out, or overlap. Extractions are sometimes necessary so that orthodontic treatment can straighten the remaining teeth.
Orthodontics can help treat issues such as underbite, overbite, crossbite, and open bite. These issues are not just cosmetic—they can also lead to oral health problems.
For some patients, gapped teeth are purely a cosmetic concern. However, spaces between teeth can cause speech issues and cause other teeth to become crowded or misaligned.
Grinding teeth can be a result of a misaligned bite. Teeth grinding can cause damage to your teeth and lead to painful temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder symptoms.
The Basics of Traditional Braces Treatment
Brackets, Wires & Rubber Bands
Traditional metal braces use wires, brackets, and rubber bands to guide your teeth into alignment. A metal bracket is attached to each tooth, and an archwire is placed through the brackets. Rubber bands are wrapped around the brackets to hold the archwire in place. This system gradually moves your teeth into their new position.
Inter-Arch Elastics
Inter-arch elastics are used for jaw alignment issues, such as to fix an underbite or overbite. Inter-arch elastics attach to small hooks on your brackets. Like braces, they use tension to gradually realign your bite. As treatment progresses, your dentist may make adjustments to the elastics depending on your dental needs.
Retainers
When treatment is completed, we'll provide you with a retainer that will help keep your teeth in their straightened position. How often you will need to wear it will vary. Some patients will need to wear a retainer full-time for six months, then transition to nightly wear. This retainer is an important step that maintains the results of your orthodontic treatment.
We Look Forward to Meeting You Request an Orthodontic Consultation
Whether you are interested in orthodontics for yourself or your child, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists at Fairfax Family Dental Care. We are happy to offer free consultations to new patients (x-rays and other imaging may involve a fee).
Our patients recommend us to their friends and family because we are friendly, experienced, and always available to help in case of an emergency. To experience our advanced level of care for yourself, request your free consultation by filling out our online form or calling our Fairfax, VA, office at:
(703) 385-0303
Fairfax Recommends Us
"All around GREAT Dental Services. Staff are friendly and easy to work with. My hygienist is so compassionate and thorough. I have never had an unpleasant experience. Very knowledgeable and down to earth. All my dental work has been without issue.
Timothy, 5-Star Google Review
If you are looking for a new dental practice or looking to switch from your current provider, I would highly recommend Fairfax Family Dental Care. Five Stars All Around!"
"Dr Kamali was so kind to me and explained everything that was going to happen to put my mind at ease. His assistant is such a caring person. The front desk assistants were so very patient and understanding. I love how modern and clean everything is."
Denise, 5-Star Google Review
What to Expect with Braces A Treatment Timeline
Braces can bring your teeth into healthy, attractive alignment within 12 to 18 months.
Not Sure If Traditional Orthodontics Is Right For You? Call our Fairfax, VA, dentistry practice today
At Fairfax Family Dental Care, we understand that orthodontic treatment options can be overwhelming. Each patient has unique needs, budgets, and more. Our conservative approach to dental care means our dentists will never recommend any treatment that you do not need.
We are happy to explain any and all treatment options and work with you to determine which will best address your unique dental issues. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have about treatment, as we want you to be completely comfortable with your options and decisions.
Our open, friendly, state-of-the-art practice has been established since 1986, and our happy and helpful staff are here to help. Call or contact us to see if traditional orthodontics is right for you.
(703) 385-0303
Another 5-Star Review
“I recently returned to the practice after many years away and they still seem to provide the best care I have ever seen in a dental office. I am grateful for a honest, knowledgeable provider that isn’t looking to upsell any unnecessary procedure. Highly recommended A+++”
Harman, 5-Star Google Review
Not Interested in Wearing Braces? We Also Offer Invisalign
Discreet Orthodontics
Our dentists offer Invisalign to adults and teens interested in a discreet, comfortable, and convenient solution. These removable trays work much like the wires and brackets, gently guiding your teeth into proper alignment. However, not everyone is a candidate for Invisalign, and significant alignment issues may exclude you from Invisalign treatment. Learn more to see if you are a candidate for this orthodontic alternative for mild to moderate orthodontic issues.
Orthodontics for All Ages Early Intervention Offers a Host of Benefits
Our focus on family-friendly dentistry extends to our orthodontic care. We are happy to provide braces to children, teens, and adults if it is the right solution for their dental needs.
In general, the earlier in life you can get your child started with orthodontics, the better. By providing pediatric dentistry and addressing alignment issues early in a child's dental development, we can move the teeth more easily and prevent the development of more significant issues in the future.
Our dentists and team members are excellent with children and take great joy in equipping little ones for a lifetime of superior dental health. If you think it's time for a dentist to look at your child's smile, contact us today.
Am I Too Old for Orthodontics?
In a word: No! There is no upper age limit for treatment. More importantly, the results of orthodontic treatment can benefit you at every stage of your life, whether you're looking forward to high school or your next class reunion. Here are just a few reasons why many adults choose to undergo orthodontic treatment:
You Deserve Comfort
Adults have enough to worry about without the annoyance and outright pain of teeth grinding, jaw tension, and other symptoms of TMJ disorder caused by a misaligned bite. If you experience TMJ symptoms, come talk to our Fairfax practice—orthodontics could be part of your journey to a life free of these complications, allowing you to concentrate on all of life's other headaches!
Your Health Is Invaluable
We only become more aware of our health and its importance as we age. Having outstanding oral health is one of the best ways to lower your risk of heart disease and other serious health issues. If dental crowding is making you more susceptible to gum disease, orthodontics can help you safeguard your health in ways that can save you money and help you live a longer, happier life.
You Deserve Confidence
Aging is a gift. Make the most of it by loving what you see in the mirror every day. It's truly remarkable what properly aligned teeth can do for your entire appearance, and orthodontics can play a crucial role in optimizing your smile. And with options like Invisalign, it's never been easier to achieve a symmetrical smile that complements all of your best features.
Does Orthodontic Treatment Hurt?
Traditional braces can be mildly uncomfortable as you adjust to wearing them. There can also be discomfort in the first few days following adjustments. The same can also be true for orthodontic alternatives such as Invisalign. As your mouth adjusts to the aligner trays, there may be some mild soreness, but your dentist will ensure the trays do not rub against your gums. With any orthodontic treatment, your doctor will work with you to minimize any discomfort, and you can take over-the-counter pain medications while your mouth adjusts. Patients with traditional metal braces often also use orthodontic wax to help with areas of irritation.
If you experience significant pain that does not respond to comfort measures, it is important that you call our Fairfax dentistry practice right away so that we can address your issues promptly. We have an emergency dentist available 24/7 to help you as soon as possible.
What's Keeping You From Exploring Orthodontics? We're Here to Answer Your Questions
Our Fairfax, VA, dentistry practice loves providing orthodontic treatment to those who can benefit from it. Are you worried about orthodontic treatment making your day-to-day life more complicated? Are you worried it will be uncomfortable? Do you have cost concerns? Get in touch with us—we would be glad to answer your questions and help you understand how we can help make orthodontics a manageable fit for your life that provides incredible benefits.
“The best facility.”
"Dr. Kirksey is the best dentist ever and so are the rest of the dentists in their facility. Their staff is courteous, their prices are low, they are very good to people, and they have the best facility."
Claire Fowler
Care and Maintenance of Metal Braces
Maintaining your oral health during orthodontic treatment may seem a bit daunting. Rest assured that we will provide you with the education you need to keep your teeth healthy throughout the entire course of treatment and beyond. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Brush and Floss
Daily
Your dentist will show you how to brush and floss around your brackets and wires to ensure optimal oral health. Small orthodontic brushes can help you get between the wires; this ensures all food debris is properly removed. Continue to brush using a soft-bristle brush, cleaning all surfaces of your teeth, wires, and brackets.
Continue With Normal Dental Exams
Regular dental exams and cleanings are crucial for maintaining your oral health. It is important that you continue with your regular dental visits, as this can help you catch tooth decay or gum disease before it progresses to a more serious concern, such as a root canal infection.
Avoid or Minimize Damaging Foods
Sticky or hard foods like gum, caramel, hard candies, and raw vegetables can damage or dislodge the brackets or wire. It is best to avoid some of these foods that are not needed for a balanced diet, such as chewing gum. However, if you have a damaged wire or bracket, our emergency dental services are on call 24/7 to help.
Answers to FAQs About Orthodontic Care
Fairfax Family Dental believes that patient education is essential to the success of every treatment we provide. If you have questions about orthodontics or any other service, we look forward to providing the answers you need during a consultation. For now, we have provided a few more answers to the questions patients ask most often about orthodontics. Take a look, get acquainted with the basics of orthodontics, and then be sure to get in touch to request your consultation.
How long does orthodontic treatment take?
This will vary based on your orthodontic needs. The average treatment time is 18 to 24 months. More complex issues will require more time, whereas minor issues can generally be resolved in a shorter timeframe. During your initial consultation, your dentist will examine your teeth and bite and can give you a more accurate treatment timeline. Once treatment is complete, you are encouraged to continue wearing your retainer to maintain your results.
I'm missing a tooth. Can I still get braces?
Yes! Missing teeth can actually be the cause of some shifting teeth. You can prevent this shifting by seeking treatment as soon as possible after tooth loss. Our comprehensive treatment options include restorative dentistry such as dental implants, crowns, and more. We have a full range of general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry treatment options to give you the smile you have always dreamed of.
Are certain foods off-limits during orthodontic treatment?
It depends on what kind of treatment you undergo. If you are wearing braces, it's important to avoid eating anything that could damage your hardware. Basically, if it's very hard, crunchy, sticky, or chewy, avoid it. Popcorn, nuts, crusty bread, hard candy, and chips are best left out of your diet. If you are using Invisalign, you can eat anything you like—just remove your tray, enjoy your food, brush and floss, and then put the tray back over your teeth.
Are these treatments covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans will contribute to the cost of both Invisalign and braces. Take that as a testament to the many valuable benefits they can provide beyond just making you look great! Orthodontics make it easier to brush and floss your teeth, reducing your risk of gum disease and many other serious health conditions that can be very expensive to address. Braces and Invisalign are both brilliant investments in your oral health and overall health that both you and your insurance company will appreciate!
Patients Stay With Us For Years
“We have been going to Fairfax Family Dental Care for many years. I left at one point for no good reason and came back. Love the atmosphere, the friendly conversations and the personal touch. There’s a reason why much of their staff have worked there for so long! Highly recommend this establishment and giving your family the service they deserve!!”
Rik, 5-Star Google Review
