Invisalign® is a great option for adults and teens who need to straighten their teeth. Clear aligners are perfect for adults who want to avoid metal braces, and for teens who want to skip the awkwardness of traditional braces. Dr. Cappy Sinclair and Dr. Mark Reichley offer Invisalign in Virginia Beach, VA, to gently move teeth into a straighter position. Invisalign is a great choice for many patients who want a more flexible treatment option.
Invisalign can fix common issues like overbites, underbites, crossbites, gaps between teeth, and crooked teeth. The aligners consist of strong clear plastic, so they’re nearly invisible. They’re also more comfortable than other types of braces. Because they’re removable, you can easily take them out when needed.
Why Choose Invisalign at Coastal General Dentistry?
The Artist’s Eye: Dr. Cappy Sinclair’s Unique Advantage
Before he was a dentist, Dr. Sinclair spent years as an art conservator, restoring damaged paintings and sculptures for museums. He learned to see what others miss: subtle contours, the way light plays across a surface, the perfect harmony of form and function.
Today, he applies that same trained eye to every smile he creates. When Dr. Sinclair plans your Invisalign treatment, he’s not just thinking about straight teeth. He’s considering:
- How your smile complements your facial features
- The natural contours of your gums and lips
- The precise angulation that makes a smile look authentically you
His credentials speak volumes:
- Accredited Dentist of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). It’s a distinction achieved by fewer than 400 dentists worldwide
- Advanced training at the prestigious Dawson Academy, studying under renowned leaders in functional and esthetic dentistry
- Leader of a local study club, educating fellow dentists about functional and cosmetic principles
- Clinical product evaluator for Contemporary Product Solutions and 3M ESPE, helping shape the future of dental materials
When you choose Invisalign with Dr. Sinclair, you’re not just getting straight teeth. You’re getting a smile designed with an artist’s precision.
The Steady Hand: Dr. Mark Reichley’s Expertise
Dr. Reichley brings his own remarkable background to Invisalign treatment. An Ivy League-trained dentist from the University of Pennsylvania, he served four years as a dental officer in the U.S. Navy, completing humanitarian deployments around the world. His advanced training includes cosmetic dentistry and Invisalign, and his calm, steady presence puts even nervous patients at ease.
Together, Dr. Sinclair and Dr. Reichley offer Virginia Beach patients the best of both worlds: artistic vision and steady, experienced care.
The Invisalign Process: Your Journey to a Straighter Smile
Step 1: Your Consultation
Your journey begins with a conversation. Dr. Sinclair or Dr. Reichley will sit with you to understand your goals, examine your teeth, and discuss whether Invisalign is right for you. This is your chance to ask questions and share what you hope to achieve.
Step 2: Digital Scanning
If Invisalign is a good fit, we’ll take advanced 3D images of your teeth and jaw using our digital scanner. No messy impressions. Just quick, comfortable images that create a precise map of your smile.
Here’s where Dr. Sinclair’s artist’s eye comes in. Using this 3D model, he’ll design your entire treatment plan digitally, showing you a preview of your final smile before you even start. You’ll see exactly how your teeth will move and what your results will look like.
Step 3: Your Custom Aligners
Your custom aligners are fabricated based on Dr. Sinclair’s precise prescription. When they arrive at our office, you’ll return for a quick fitting. We’ll ensure they fit perfectly and explain exactly how to wear them for optimal results.
Step 4: Gradual Transformation
You’ll wear each set of aligners for about 1-2 weeks, removing them only to eat, drink (anything other than water), brush, and floss. Every new aligner gently moves your teeth closer to their final positions.
Most patients complete treatment in 6 to 18 months, depending on their specific needs. Throughout your journey, you’ll check in with us every 6-8 weeks to ensure everything is tracking as planned.
Step 5: Your New Smile
When your active treatment ends, you’ll have the smile you’ve always wanted. But your journey doesn’t stop there. To prevent your teeth from shifting back (orthodontic relapse), you’ll wear a retainer every night.
Dr. Sinclair will ensure your retainer maintains the beautiful, functional smile he’s designed for you.
Taking Care of Your Invisalign® Aligners
Take good care of your Invisalign aligners so they work well. Daily care will help you make sure they stay in the best condition and help you achieve your desired results. Here are some tips to follow:
- Keep Them Clean: Rinse your aligners with cold water before and after wearing them to avoid stains and bad breath. Don’t use hot water, as it can warp or melt the plastic.
- Avoid Soaking in Mouthwash: Don’t soak your aligners in mouthwash or other liquids. The acidity can damage the material and can warp the aligners.
- Be Careful When Eating: Always remove your aligners before eating and rinse your mouth before putting them back in. This helps prevent food particles from getting trapped and causing problems.
Patient Review
Invisalign® FAQs
Do you have questions about how Invisalign can straighten your smile? Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get in our Virginia Beach dental office.
Does Insurance Cover Invisalign®?
Most dental insurance plans don’t cover Invisalign since they consider it a cosmetic treatment. However, many plans do cover metal braces for straightening teeth. Check with your dental insurance provider to see what benefits they offer.
Some plans may cover part of the Invisalign treatment based on the type of coverage you have. If you’re unsure about your insurance, our office can help you figure out if they will cover any of the cost.
Will I Need to Wear a Retainer After Invisalign Treatment?
Yes, you’ll need to wear a retainer after finishing your Invisalign treatment. This helps prevent your teeth from shifting back out of place, which is called orthodontic relapse.
Relapse happens when the teeth and jaw aren’t given enough time to adjust to their new positions. This causes teeth to move back to their old crooked spots. Always wear your retainer to protect the results of your Invisalign treatment.
Can Invisalign Damage My Teeth?
No, it’s very unlikely. Invisalign aligners are safe for both teens and adults when used properly. As long as you wear them as instructed and take care of your teeth, Invisalign won’t damage your teeth or gums. The aligners don’t have harmful chemicals, they don’t scratch your gums or teeth, and they’re easy to remove.
Will Invisalign Stain My Teeth?
No, the material used to make Invisalign aligners won’t stain your teeth or harm your enamel. But if you don’t clean your aligners after eating, bacteria can build up and possibly cause staining. We recommend brushing your teeth and cleaning your aligners after every meal to avoid this issue.
Schedule a Dental Exam & Consultation Today
If you’re considering Invisalign and live near Chesapeake, Norfolk, or Virginia Beach, call Coastal Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry at 757-656-6368. You can also schedule an appointment online. We’ll do a full exam to see if Invisalign is the right choice for your smile.
