Invisible Braces Maple Grove & Edina - Minneapolis Metro

No one wants braces! But if you want a beautiful, healthy smile, they are the best way to achieve that. Technological advances in orthodontia have made braces more bearable and aesthetically pleasing. One of these options is invisible braces.

Braces are used to correct a number of misalignments including crooked teeth, over crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, over and under bite, and overjet (buck teeth). Patients of all ages may find themselves needing orthodontic treatment but not everyone wants to deal with metal brackets. Invisible braces are a great option if you do not want to undergo traditional metal brackets and wires.

Adults and teenage patients alike can take advantage of invisible braces. Your dentist can help determine if you are a suitable candidate for invisible braces. Since invisible braces are not recommended for more severe cases, your dentist may decide that you would best be served with traditional metal braces.

Types of Invisible Braces

There are a few different options when considering invisible braces including ceramic braces, inside braces and clear aligners.

• Ceramic braces, or clear braces, still use a bracket and wire system but the brackets and wires are tooth colored so they blend into your smile better than metal and are non-staining. They are made from a composite material which causes them to be weaker than metal. Some clear braces have brackets that are self-ligating and do not require bands, which can stain, to hold the archwire in place. Clear braces are cemented to the tooth surface and therefore cannot be removed until treatment is complete. They may cause some irritation where the inside of your cheeks rub against them but that can be alleviated with orthodontic wax placed on the bracket.
• Inside braces also use brackets and wires but they are placed on the back of the teeth. This can be a convenient option if your lifestyle would not easily allow you to wear clear aligners. Inside braces can be more costly than traditional braces and since computer scans are required to fabricate each case, they are not a commonly offered option. If you feel that inside braces would be a good choice for you, it is important that you find a provider that can give you the best treatment possible.
• Clear aligners such as Invisalign and ClearCorrect use impressions taken by your dentist to create clear trays that fit over the entire arch of your teeth. Using a series of trays that slowly shift your teeth, clear aligners are a practically undetectable option for straightening your teeth. Since there are no brackets, there is virtually no irritation. You will still experience some soreness with the change of trays much like you would with the tightening of an archwire. Clear aligners must be worn a minimum of 20 hours per day and should be removed for eating and drinking anything other than water. They may also be removed for special occasions. Since they are removable, they are significantly easier to clean than other invisible braces.

Length of Treatment

The time it takes to achieve the results you want depends on the extent of the movement to be accomplished. Braces are usually worn anywhere from 18 to 24 months but can be worn longer if need be. Metal braces are the strongest material and work the best, making your treatment time shorter. Ceramic braces are not as strong and can take longer to achieve the desired result.

Clear aligner therapy is no different. Treatment with Invisalign can range from 6 to 15 months. ClearCorrect typically ranges from 12 to 24 months. Each case is different so the more extensive your case, the longer you will be in treatment. The number of aligners you require will depend on your individual orthodontic problem. The more trays you need, the longer your treatment will take. Time will also be added if you are not compliant with the 20 hours of wear time each day or if you lose a tray. Keep in mind, not everyone is a candidate for clear aligners.

Cost of Invisible Braces

The cost will vary depending on the type of orthodontic treatment you choose and the duration of that treatment. Traditional orthodontia ranges from $2500 to $7000 and is the same for invisible braces. Your orthodontist or dentist may offer in house financing and some insurances cover orthodontic treatment, even for adults. Orthodontia is important not only for the appearance of your smile but for the health of it as well. Crooked and crowded teeth can harbor decay causing bacteria. Straight teeth are easier to clean and restore when needed. Speak with your dentist if you are considering invisible braces to find out if you are a candidate.