Modern Orthodontics & Clear Aligner Therapy

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St. Anthony Park Dental Care guides St. Paul smiles toward optimal function and symmetry using discreet clear aligner systems and Airway-Centric Diagnostics.

Guiding Smiles Toward Symmetry

A straight smile is about more than just looks; it’s about how your teeth work together. We use modern orthodontics to correct crowding and spacing. This makes your teeth easier to clean and reduces the risk of decay. Our approach as “The Alignment” specialist ensures your smile is both healthy and beautiful.

Airway-Centric Orthodontics

We look deeper than just the position of your teeth. Through Airway-Centric Diagnostics, we evaluate how your jaw structure affects your breathing and sleep. Sometimes, narrow arches can contribute to restricted airflow. Our orthodontic plans aim to expand the palate and improve your overall systemic health, not just straighten a few front teeth.

The Discreet Way to Align

For many adults and teens in St. Paul, clear aligners are the ideal choice. These custom trays are nearly invisible and can be removed for eating and brushing. You can achieve a professional result without the “metal mouth” look of traditional braces. It is the modern way to get the smile you’ve always wanted without interrupting your lifestyle.

How do clear aligners differ from traditional braces clinically?

Clear aligners utilize sequential “thermoplastic” trays to apply controlled force, while traditional braces use brackets and wires for complex rotational movements. Both are highly effective, and we’ll help you choose the one that fits your clinical needs and daily routine. Most of our neighbors love the aligners because they can keep eating their favorite foods throughout treatment.

Can orthodontics really help with my breathing or sleep issues? 

Yes, Airway-Centric Diagnostics allow us to identify structural narrowness that may impede “nasopharyngeal” airflow, which can be improved through proper orthodontic expansion. If you find yourself waking up tired or snoring, a quick airway check might be the answer you’ve been looking for. We’ll look at the big picture to make sure you’re breathing as well as you’re smiling.

Is the treatment much more expensive than mail-order aligners?

Professional orthodontic therapy includes clinical oversight and Airway-Centric Diagnostics to ensure tooth movement doesn’t negatively impact your bite or jaw joints. While those “mail-order” kits seem cheap, they lack the doctor-led care that prevents long-term damage. We offer flexible monthly payment plans to make sure you get high-quality care that fits your budget.

Ready for a straighter smile? Contact St. Anthony Park Dental Care.

Orthodontic Options: How to Straighten Your Teeth

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Crooked or misaligned teeth can lead to a variety of problems. Teeth that are misaligned are more difficult to maintain and more likely to be affected by problems like cavities and gum disease. Crooked teeth can also impact your smile, and can leave some people feeling self-conscious. If you have misaligned teeth, you can benefit from seeing a dentist in St. Paul, MN. At St. Anthony Park Dental Care, we offer a range of services to help. Here’s what you need to know.

Traditional Braces Versus Clear Aligners

There are many orthodontic services in St. Paul, MN, that can help straighten your teeth. Clear aligners and traditional braces are two options.

Traditional braces are made up of wires and brackets that pull the teeth into the right position. The teeth are pulled into the right position in increments: once the teeth have been pulled into a position, the wires are adjusted to pull the teeth more until the teeth are fully in the correct position.

Clear aligners are made from clear plastic resin. Aligners fit over the teeth and force them into the correct position. Like braces, aligners work in increments. Once the teeth are in the position the aligners have forced them into, a new set of aligners is fitted over the teeth to continue the adjustment. Clear aligners have some advantages over braces because they’re easier to clean, easier to maintain, require no adjusting, and also are very difficult to see.

How to Pick the Right Orthodontic Option for You

Most of the time, clear aligners and traditional braces can be used interchangeably, and patients can pick the right tool for them. However, your dentist will be able to tell you if braces and aligners will both work for you. Get more information from your dentist before making your selection.

At St. Anthony Park Dental Care, we can help you choose between traditional braces or clear aligners. To find out more about which option is best for you, call today to make an appointment.