FAQ: All About Invisalign

invisalign birmingham alMany of our patients visit our office looking for solutions to straighten their smiles. One of our most commonly recommended cosmetic dentistry solutions is Invisalign. As your trusted dentist in Birmingham, AL, we wanted to provide you with some additional information on Invisalign, what it is, and who it can help. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding Invisalign:

What is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system of clear, plastic aligners that fit snuggly and securely over your smile. The aligners apply small amounts of pressure to your teeth and encourage them to shift into a straighter position over time. Every two weeks, you will swap out your aligner for another one and progress like this until your treatment plan is complete. Patients prefer Invisalign to traditional braces because it offers them a discreet orthodontic treatment solution. The clear plastic material that the aligners are made out of allows patients to maintain their natural smile aesthetics while avoiding the use of metallic brackets and wires.

What are the benefits of Invisalign?

Besides maintaining your natural smile aesthetics, Invisalign also offers several other benefits. Invisalign requires no dietary restrictions as traditional braces do. When you have braces, it is often recommended to avoid excessively chewy or crunchy foods. However, with Invisalign, you can simply remove the aligners while eating or drinking. This also makes for better oral hygiene throughout your treatment compared to traditional braces because you can remove the aligners to brush or floss. Many patients enjoy the removability of Invisalign because it allows them to attend special occasions like weddings or job interviews without wearing their aligners. As long as you wear your aligners 20-22 hours out of every day, your treatment plan will not be affected.

Why should I straighten my smile?

Crooked teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern. They can create many issues with your smile including jaw pain, dental damage, or tooth loss. This is because when your bite pattern is misaligned, your teeth are having to work harder to perform daily tasks like eating or speaking. This places additional strain on all of your dental structures. Additionally, it is harder to maintain your oral health when your teeth are crooked. The misalignment makes it easier for bacteria and residue to buildup in hard-to-reach areas, putting you at a higher risk for gum disease or tooth decay.

Am I a good candidate for Invisalign?

The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for Invisalign is to schedule an appointment with our team. Not only is Invisalign good for straightening your smile but it can also help with dental concerns such as overbites, underbites, and crossbites. At your consultation, Dr. Spink will give you an initial examination to determine if Invisalign treatment is right for you. If it appears that Invisalign is an option, we will take photographs, x-rays, and dental impressions of your teeth. At Spink Dentistry, our goal is always to provide the highest standard of dental care in a personalized manner. We look forward to seeing you soon.