Invisalign

How Invisalign Works

Clear aligners move teeth with a planned series of removable trays. We take digital scans using the iTero and TRIOS scanners to map current tooth positions and plan movement in small steps. Each tray gradually moves teeth toward the planned alignment. You wear them most of the day and swap to a new set every one to two weeks. The process avoids metal wires and brackets, which means fewer emergency visits for broken parts and less cheek irritation.

Who Benefits from Aligner Therapy

Many adults and teens choose clear aligners for their discreet look and convenience. Aligners suit:

• Mild to moderate crowding or spacing
• Patients who need to keep up athletic or performance schedules
• Those who want aligners they can remove for photos, playing instruments, or meals

We evaluate whether aligners meet your goals during a consultation. Some cases require attachments or minor tooth reshaping to achieve the best results. We’ll explain the options upfront so you can make a clear choice.

What to Expect at Smiles On Church

At your first visit, we’ll review your medical history, take digital X-rays, and scan your teeth with our 3D scanner. You’ll meet either Dr. Gordon Henry or Dr. Kevin Alexander, who will outline a step-by-step plan and timelines. We run treatment simulations so you can preview likely results before committing. Our office keeps things comfortable: blankets, TVs, water, and sparkling water help make visits pleasant. We value honesty and clarity; you’ll receive straightforward answers and a written plan.

Typical Timeline and Progress Checks

Treatment length varies by case, but most patients finish in 6 to 18 months. We monitor progress through short visits every 6 to 8 weeks to check alignment and adjust as needed. If you wonder how often aligners must be worn, most people wear them 20 to 22 hours daily. Wear time matters. Faster movement becomes possible when trays are used regularly. We track results and update your sequence when small refinements help deliver a better outcome.

Care, Maintenance, and Comfort

Keeping aligners clean and comfortable increases the likelihood of success. Follow these simple steps:

• Rinse trays after removal and brush them with a soft toothbrush
• Soak aligners occasionally in a recommended cleaner
• Brush and floss after meals before reinserting aligners
• Bring aligners to appointments so we can check fit

Soreness for a day or two after switching trays happens. Over-the-counter pain relievers and avoiding hard foods help. If an aligner cracks or fits poorly, call us, and we’ll guide you on the next step.

Common Questions We Hear

Will treatment affect speech? Some patients notice a mild lisp for a few days. It goes away as you adjust. Can aligners handle complex movement? In many cases, yes. We use digital planning and scanners to determine feasibility. Do you offer follow-up retainers? Yes — we discuss retention at the end of active treatment to help maintain results. We keep communication open and explain each recommendation so you know what to expect.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re ready to explore whether clear aligners suit your needs, call Smiles On Church to schedule a consultation. We’ll take digital scans, review options, and show you a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle. Find us in Birmingham, AL, and bring any questions you have about care or timelines.