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Business Details
32 Years
experience
Exceptional Dental Care in Washington DC Since 1994
Established in 1994, Thornton Dental Associates has provided comprehensive dental care to Washington, DC residents for over three decades. Our practice combines advanced technology with personalized treatment plans to address general, restorative, and cosmetic dental needs. Led by Drs. Will Thornton and Nathan Van der Linden, our team prioritizes patient comfort while delivering precise, evidence-based care using state-of-the-art tools like the iTero scanner.

We maintain affiliations with the American Dental Association and District of Columbia Dental Society, ensuring adherence to the highest professional standards. Our commitment to timeliness, insurance coordination, and transparent communication creates a seamless experience for patients seeking long-term oral health solutions.
Services
Dental Implants Veneers Crowns Dentures Invisalign Teeth Whitening Cosmetic Dentistry Restorative Dentistry General Dentistry Smile Makeover
Details
  • Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
  • We offer comprehensive general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry under one roof
  • Our iTero scanner provides comfortable digital impressions without dental putty
  • Dentists maintain active memberships in leading dental professional organizations
  • Over 30 combined years of experience serving Washington, DC patients
  • We coordinate insurance filings to maximize patient benefits
Associations and certifications
  • American Dental Association
  • District of Columbia Dental Society
What people say
Top-notch technology Friendly and helpful staff Professional and patient-centered Transformative results Comfortable atmosphere
Services
Dental Implants
Dental implants provide permanent solutions for missing teeth through prosthetic roots that prevent bone atrophy. Our dentists coordinate full implant treatment plans to restore function and aesthetics. Patients benefit from improved chewing ability, speech clarity, and confidence with natural-looking replacements that integrate seamlessly with existing teeth.
Veneers
Porcelain veneers conceal cosmetic imperfections like chips, stains, and misalignment while maintaining natural tooth structure. We place these ultra-thin shells in two appointments for dramatic smile transformations. Patients achieve durable, stain-resistant results that mimic natural enamel's light-reflecting properties without extensive dental work.
Invisalign
Invisalign treatment straightens teeth discreetly using custom clear aligners that patients can remove for eating and cleaning. Our dentists create personalized movement plans for gradual tooth positioning without traditional brackets. This orthodontic solution addresses crowding and spacing issues while maintaining professional appearances during treatment.
Crowns
Dental crowns restore damaged teeth with durable porcelain restorations that match surrounding natural teeth. We fabricate crowns to withstand biting forces while repairing structural damage from trauma or decay. These custom caps preserve tooth functionality for over a decade with proper maintenance and regular checkups.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments remove deep stains using advanced bleaching technology for noticeable results. Our dentists provide customized whitening trays and formulas that safely enhance smiles' brightness. Patients achieve visibly whiter teeth in weeks while minimizing sensitivity through controlled application methods.
People
Will Thornton
Dentist
Dr. Thornton earned his DDS from Virginia Commonwealth University and completed advanced training at the University of the Pacific. With over 15 years in Washington, DC, he combines technical expertise with compassionate care, focusing on patient-centered treatment plans that prioritize long-term oral health outcomes.
Nathan Van der Linden
Dentist
Dr. Van der Linden graduated from Dalhousie University and brings diverse clinical experience to our practice. His approach emphasizes clear communication and patient education, ensuring individuals understand treatment options while receiving technically precise dental care tailored to their specific needs.
Questions
What dental specialties do you offer?
We provide general dentistry, cosmetic enhancements like veneers, and restorative treatments including implants and crowns all in one location.
Do you accept dental insurance?
Yes, we work with most insurance plans and handle claim submissions to help maximize your dental benefits.
What technology improves your dental procedures?
Our iTero scanner creates precise digital impressions eliminating traditional putty while enhancing treatment accuracy and patient comfort.
How can I schedule an appointment?
Contact us by phone, online request, or email to arrange your visit during our Monday-Thursday business hours.
What makes your practice different?
Combining 30+ years of combined experience with advanced technology creates efficient, comfortable care focused on lasting oral health solutions.
Reviews (6)
Live F.
Sep 22, 2021 Report
Unbelievably incompetent and rude front desk staff. Avoid this dentist. So many better options in DC.
Lauren P.
Sep 16, 2020 Report
I had the worst pain ever most of other doctors advice was that i should take it out and i could't agree with that cuz that was kinda grows for me until a friend of mine helped me find this clinic and thank god now they helped me like i never had the pain and there was no need to take out my tooth
thank you so much.
Amy B.
Aug 28, 2020 Report
Update to my previous review: it has been EIGHT years and the bonding work Dr. Thornton did to fix my front tooth is still in perfect condition. I ended up needing to get a little bit of bonding on my other tooth as well a few years ago (and we have since moved to a different state so sadly I needed to see a different dentist) and it hasn't held up nearly as well as Dr. Thornton's work. He really is the best!
Vivian Y.
Jul 19, 2020 Report
I had a really poor relationship with my dentists. I never to had a good experience with them which made me not want to go to the dentist. Finally I went and I was recommended this place. They did a root canal and although it hurt a little it was so much better than what everyone said it was going to be!! It's was because of how talented these dentists are. I come here often now to get check ups and I don't mind it at all 10/10 would recommend. Thanks!!!
Hallie C.
Dec 11, 2019 Report
China was such a helpful receptionist! I called the office asking if their office took my boss' insurance, and even though they don't, I had such a pleasant conversation with her. :)
Chantel M.
Sep 30, 2019 Report
I have had many bad experiences with dental offices and many dentist and staff have left a bad taste in my mouth for years, well that is until I found Rusk and Thornton. Let me first say, you are greeted right away when you arrive through those doors. The front end staff is extremely friendly and will answer all your questions. My dental hygienist (Tracey) and dental assistant (Nick) are the ABSOLUTE BEST!! It is just a great prize when you find a dentist that you actually look forward visiting because you know that he (Dr. T) will take awesome care of you. I just had a temp crown put on today