Invisible vs. Traditional Braces: Pros and Cons

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When you need braces in St. Paul, MN, you have options at St. Anthony Park Dental Care. Advances in orthodontics have made it possible for patients to choose what kind of treatment they want, as long as it aligns with the recommendations of the orthodontist. When braces become a necessity, you have a choose between invisible braces and traditional metal braces. Before you decide, take into consideration the pros and cons of each.

Invisible Braces

Invisible braces, including clear aligners, are one of the most popular choices these days for teens and adults alike. They offer a subtle appearance and a low profile that make them ideal for those who have a tendency to feel self-conscious about their looks. Up close, others will be able to subtly tell that you’re wearing orthodontics. But from a distance, this kind of orthodontic is practically invisible.

As far clear aligners, they also have the added benefit of being removable. As long as the patient commits to wearing them for a minimum of 21 hours in any given 24-hour period, then treatment will go as scheduled. But the aligner can be removed for cleaning and special events.

Traditional Braces

Traditional metal braces are also still a popular choice, especially for more serious alignment problems, because they’re more effective for severe or complex orthodontic issues. Because they are permanently affixed to the teeth, there’s no maintenance involved for the patient, aside from brushing and rinsing. They are more noticeable, which can be an issue for those who are worried about how they might look in braces. They’re also a little bit more uncomfortable, although the patient does get accustomed to them after a short period of time.

To learn more about your options for orthodontic treatment, book an appointment with your St. Paul, MN dentist today.

Clear Aligners vs Traditional Braces – Which is the Best Option for You?  

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Smile alignment issues can cause a lot of problems with oral health. However, braces can be a straightforward solution to a healthier, more confident smile. When you schedule an appointment for orthodontic treatment in St. Paul, MN, the dentist will discuss the different types of braces with you. Two options likely to come up will be clear aligners and traditional metal braces. Here is a look at a few things to consider with clear aligners versus standard braces.

Alignment Issues

Traditional braces work better for people with more severe alignment issues. However, clear aligners can work well from mild to moderate bite issues. For example, an individual with severe problems with crowding may be a better candidate for metal braces.

Conspicuousness

Traditional braces are obviously more conspicuous than clear aligner smile alignment. In fact, clear aligners are practically invisible unless someone is looking at your teeth really closely.

Duration of Treatment

The duration of treatment with clear aligners and traditional braces is comparable. The average duration of treatment for clear aligners is less than two years. Traditional braces take between one and three years. Of course, the duration varies significantly from one patient and one smile to the next.

Cost

For the most part, traditional braces are considered slightly less expensive than clear aligners, but this can vary depending on the patient. It is a common misconception that clear aligners are rarely covered by dental health insurance. Nevertheless, more providers accept clear aligners as a standard of care and offer coverage for this treatment option.

Talk to a St. Paul Orthodontist About Smile Alignment Options

Choosing braces can be a major decision, but a St. Paul orthodontist can help. Reach out to St. Anthony Park Dental Care to schedule an appointment to learn more about your options for aligning your smile.

 

Trying to Decide Between Invisalign and Traditional Braces? What to Know

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Crooked or misaligned teeth can be more than an embarrassment. These problems can prevent you from chewing properly, and may even lead to pain in your jaw and teeth. As your dentist in St. Paul MN, the professionals at St. Anthony Park Dental Care can help in multiple ways. We provide invisalign and traditional braces to our patients. Here’s what you need to know. 

Traditional Braces

Traditional braces have been used for decades to straighten crooked teeth. They’re made from wires and brackets that are tightened periodically to pull the teeth into the right position. Traditional braces are effective, but can be difficult to clean and easily damaged by crunchy or sticky foods. 

The benefit of traditional braces? Cost. These braces typically cost less than clear aligners.  

Invisalign Braces

Invisalign braces are made from durable, clear resin. They’re shaped to fit over the teeth, and they work by gently moving the teeth into a slightly different position. Invisalign braces function very much like traditional braces, but with some advantages:

  • Invisalign braces are easy to clean.
  • You can take your Invisalign braces off for meals, which means you don’t have to worry about breaking your aligners with hard foods.
  • Invisalign braces are neary invisible and don’t interfere with the appearance of your smile. 

Which One Is Right for You?

Making a decision can be tough! Your dental professional at St. Anthony Park Dental Care can help you determine which type of braces are best for you. Are you interested in traditional braces or invisalign in St. Paul MN? We can help. Contact the dental professionals at St. Anthony Park Dental Care to make an appointment and learn more about invisalign and traditional braces.