Invisalign in Annapolis, MD

Clear Aligners from a Practice You Can Trust

For more than 50 years, Guard Your Smile Dentistry has helped Annapolis patients feel confident in their smiles. Dr. Dennis Guard and Dr. Holly Guard-Mayher bring that same patient-first philosophy to Invisalign, offering a discreet, comfortable path to straighter teeth without the look or limitations of traditional metal braces. If you have been thinking about clear aligners, you will find experienced, local care right here in Annapolis.

What Is Invisalign and How Does It Work?

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that gradually shifts your teeth into a better position using a series of custom-fitted, removable trays made from smooth, BPA-free plastic. Treatment begins with a consultation and a digital scan using our in-office iTero scanner, which means no messy traditional impressions. From those scans, a precise ClinCheck treatment plan is created, giving you a digital preview of how your smile is expected to progress.

You will receive a new set of aligners approximately every one to two weeks, with progress check-ins scheduled throughout so we can confirm your teeth are moving as planned. For mild to moderate alignment concerns, most patients complete treatment in about 6 to 18 months.

Benefits of Choosing Invisalign Over Traditional Braces

Invisalign clear aligners offer a number of practical advantages that make the treatment a popular choice for both teens and adults.

• Nearly invisible appearance that most people will not notice
• Removable for eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing
• No dietary restrictions — enjoy all the foods you love
• No metal brackets or wires to irritate soft tissue
• Fewer unscheduled visits for broken hardware
• Smooth, comfortable plastic that fits closely to your teeth
• Predictable results supported by digital treatment planning with iTero and ClinCheck technology
• Effective for a wide range of mild to moderate alignment concerns

Are You a Good Candidate for Invisalign?

Invisalign can address many common alignment issues including:

• Crowding
• Spacing
• Mild overbite
• Mild underbite
• Crossbite
• Open bite

Both adults and teens can be great candidates, provided they remain consistent with their treatment.

Your Invisalign Treatment at Guard Your Smile Dentistry, Step by Step

1. Initial Visit & Smile Assessment – Your first visit includes a comprehensive smile assessment and a digital scan using our iTero scanner, capturing precise images of your teeth and bite without traditional impressions.
2. Custom Treatment Planning (ClinCheck) – We use your scan data to create a personalized ClinCheck plan, mapping out each stage of tooth movement and providing a preview of your expected results before treatment begins.
3. Aligner Delivery & Instructions – Once your custom aligners are ready, you’ll return to receive your first set along with detailed guidance on proper wear and care.
4. Progress Check Appointments – Follow-up visits are typically scheduled every six to eight weeks to monitor progress and make any necessary refinements.
5. Final Results & Retainers – After completing your final set of aligners, we’ll provide retainers to help maintain your new smile long-term.

How to Care for Your Invisalign Aligners

• Keep your aligners clean by rinsing them with lukewarm water and gently brushing with a soft toothbrush
• Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic
• Always store them in their case when not in use
• Remove aligners when drinking coffee, tea, or red wine, and avoid smoking to prevent staining. Brush and floss before reinserting to maintain oral health

If a tray is lost or damaged, contact our office as soon as possible so we can help you move forward without losing progress.

Why Annapolis Patients Choose Guard Your Smile Dentistry for Invisalign

Guard Your Smile Dentistry has been a trusted name in Annapolis since 1973, and that longevity reflects a consistent commitment to personal, attentive care. Dr. Dennis Guard and Dr. Holly Guard-Mayher use the iTero digital scanner to ensure accurate treatment planning and predictable outcomes from the very first appointment. Our team takes time with every patient to answer questions, explain each step, and make sure you feel comfortable and informed throughout your Invisalign journey.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invisalign in Annapolis

How long does Invisalign take?

Treatment length depends on the complexity of your case. Mild to moderate alignment concerns typically take between 6 and 18 months.

Does Invisalign hurt?

Some patients notice mild pressure when switching to a new set of aligners, which is a sign the trays are working. Discomfort is generally short-lived and much less than what is associated with tightening traditional braces.

How often do I need to wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn for approximately 22 hours per day. They should only be removed for eating, drinking anything other than water, brushing, and flossing.

What happens if I lose an aligner?

Contact our office right away. We can advise whether you should move to your next set or order a replacement, depending on where you are in your treatment plan.

Is Invisalign covered by insurance?

Many dental insurance plans that include orthodontic benefits will contribute toward Invisalign. Our team is happy to help you understand your coverage before you begin. Contact our office at (410) 268-5751 for more information, or request an appointment online.

To schedule a consultation, contact Guard Your Smile Dentistry at (410) 268-5751. Our office is located at 101 Ridgely Avenue, Suite 22, Annapolis, MD 21401. We look forward to helping you take the next step toward a smile you feel good about.