Embrace
your full potential
with a smile that brings out the best in you.
We Treat People, Not Just Teeth
At First Impression Orthodontics in Alexandria, Dr. Lu and Dr. Schneider provide personalized braces and clear aligner treatment for kids, teens, and adults.
We take the time to understand what matters to you, then create a treatment plan that fits your smile, your lifestyle, and your goals.
That’s what FIO is all about: helping you feel confident, enjoy the journey, and become your best self.
Personalized Orthodontics in Alexandria
Explore braces, clear aligners, and teeth whitening, with personalized recommendations to help you find the option that fits you best.
Meet Dr. Lu
Your Alexandria VA Orthodontist
Recognized by multiple publications as a Top Orthodontist in the DC Metropolitan area.
“My goal is to bring out the best in you. I take the time to understand what I can do to help you become the person you want to be.”
It’s All About You Here
What makes our orthodontic experience different:
Personalized Care
Your goals, lifestyle, and priorities help shape your treatment. We’ll get to know what matters to you, then personalize your treatment options to create an efficient path toward the smile you want.
And because the journey matters too, we work hard to make every visit comfortable, positive, and maybe even the best part of your day.
Military-friendly
Thank you for serving us. We’d love the opportunity to serve you! We welcome families who transfer to Fort Belvoir and surrounding bases.
We’re proud to offer interest-free payment plans and an active duty discount.
Military life can be unpredictable, and we understand that. Our team is here to support you.
Flexible Financing
We believe your best smile should work with your budget, too.
We offer 0% interest in-house financing, flexible monthly payment plans for braces & aligners, and discounts for families, military members, and patients who pay in full.
We also accept all PPO dental insurance and help you understand and maximize your orthodontic benefits.
Community Support
Our roots run deep here and our community means everything to us.
We give back to our Northern Virginia communites, across Springfield, Fort Belvoir, Franconia, Kingstowne, and Mount Vernon, through sponsorships, donations, and partnerships with local charities, schools and organizations.
Questions? We'd love to help.
What makes First Impression Orthodontics different?
Dr. Lu, Dr. Schneider, and our team personalize your care around your smile, lifestyle, and goals, while making sure you have a genuinely good time along the way.
With high-tech treatment, a lively team, and thoughtful touches that make every visit feel special, we’re here to help you become your best self and enjoy the journey there.
Do I need a referral to see an orthodontist?
Whether you’re exploring braces, clear aligners, or early treatment for your child, we’re here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you feel confident about what comes next.
What orthodontic treatments do you offer?
We offer personalized orthodontic treatment for kids, teens, and adults, with options designed around your smile, lifestyle, and goals:
- Metal braces
- Clear braces
- Clear aligners for all ages
- Early orthodontic treatment
- Orthodontics for teens
- Adult orthodontics
- Retainers after treatment
- GLO teeth whitening
Not sure which option is right for you? Dr. Lu or Dr. Schneider will walk you through your options, and create a treatment plan that fits your life.
At what age should my child see an orthodontist?
At this age, Dr. Lu and Dr. Schneider can evaluate how your child’s teeth and jaws are developing and identify concerns that may benefit from early attention.
An early evaluation doesn’t always mean early treatment! If your child isn’t ready yet, we’ll welcome them into our Kids Club for complimentary observation appointments, where we can monitor their smile as they grow and let you know when (or if) the time is right for treatment.
How long does orthodontic treatment usually take?
Comprehensive braces or clear aligner treatment often takes 12–24 months, while minor corrections may take much less time.
We also offer in-house clear aligners for select minor adjustments and retreatment cases.
During your complimentary consultation, Dr. Lu or Dr. Schneider will recommend the right option and give you a personalized treatment timeline.
Do you offer payment plans?
We offer flexible, in-house payment plans with 0% interest and will work with you to create a plan that fits comfortably into your budget.
We accept all PPO insurances, including United Concordia, and will file your claims for you and help you understand your benefit.
Plus, we offer pay-in-full, family member, and military discounts. Our team will walk you through all of your options during your complimentary consultation.
Do you treat adults?
We offer adult orthodontic treatments, including metal braces, clear braces, and discreet clear aligners, with treatment personalized around your lifestyle and goals.
Whether it’s your first time considering orthodontics or you’re looking to fine-tune a smile you treated years ago, we’ll help you find the right fit.
Where is First Impression Orthodontics located?
Our Alexandria orthodontic office welcomes children, teens, and adults from Alexandria, Kingstowne, Springfield, Franconia, Fort Belvoir, Mount Vernon, Newington, Lorton, and surrounding Northern Virginia communities.