Invisalign® Clear Braces in St. Paul MN

Straighten your teeth with clear aligners that are virtually invisible.

Invisalign® is an orthodontic treatment that corrects various dental alignment issues for teenage and adult patients. Unlike traditional braces, Invisalign® braces are transparent, removable, and easy to clean. Our dentists are specially certified and trained to create an Invisalign® treatment plan to deliver optimal results. Schedule a consultation and find out if you are a good candidate for Invisalign®.

How Does Invisalign® Work?

The Invisalign® treatment works to gradually correct tooth and jaw misalignment using a series of clear aligner trays. The trays are customized to your mouth and progressively shift your teeth a few millimeters at a time. You will wear each set of aligners for about two weeks, then switch to the next stage of aligners in the series, repeating the process until the conclusion of treatment.

To fabricate your custom Invisalign® aligners, we use X-rays and 3D images of your mouth to create a precise digital model of your teeth. Since the aligners are customized to your teeth, they are comfortable and easily removable when you eat and drink.

Invisalign® vs. Braces

The most significant difference between Invisalign® and traditional braces is visual. Most patients prefer Invisalign® because the aligners are clear plastic and unnoticeable when worn. Traditional braces are metal, extremely noticeable, and unsightly for the duration of treatment.

Another difference is the comfort of Invisalign® vs. braces. Your aligners will fit your teeth like a glove, and you can remove them for meals and cleaning. Invisalign® enables a restriction-free diet and easy cleaning compared to metal braces. Traditional metal braces are not removable and require patients to limit their diet during treatment.

Patients are often hesitant to get braces because it will alter their appearance during the long treatment duration. Invisalign® doesn’t change your appearance, and the treatment timeline is shorter than traditional braces.

How Long Does Invisalign® Take?

The duration of your Invisalign® treatment depends on your individual case and medical details. On average, Invisalign® treatments take about a year, but it all depends on the extent of the correction. Minor alignment issues can be corrected in as little as six months, whereas extensive realignment can take three years.

Imagine your Invisalign® treatment like a picture flipbook that depicts your teeth moving from their current position to perfect alignment. Each page of the flipbook corresponds to your Invisalign® aligner trays, and the greater the misalignment, the more aligner trays it will take to straighten your teeth.

The aligners are designed to be worn for at least 20 to 22 hours a day. After about two weeks of wearing the aligners, you will progress to the next set in the treatment series. Each time you progress in the series, the trays push your teeth a little bit more towards the correct position. And once your treatment concludes, we will prescribe a retainer to maintain your beautifully straight smile.

How to Clean Invisalign®

Regularly clean your Invisalign® aligners to avoid bacteria build-up and discoloration of the trays. The aligners are disposable, but you have to clean them. Rinsing your trays each night will remove visible pieces of food and debris, but you are not cleaning the bacteria until you scrub the trays with soap and a soft-bristle toothbrush.

Get a soft toothbrush that you only use for cleaning your Invisalign® aligners. When you clean the aligners, gently scrub the outside and inside the trays using a clear liquid soap. Store them in a protective case during meals and when not using your trays.

Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals

Many patients prefer to clean their Invisalign® aligners with a dedicated product, like Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals. This product is designed to disinfect and sanitize your Invisalign® trays and retainer without any scrubbing. Dissolve the crystals in water and soak your aligners for up to 30 minutes per day to kill bacteria, remove plaque, and keep them looking new.

Why Choose Invisalign®?

Invisalign® clear aligners straighten teeth for teens and adults without altering the aesthetic of your smile. Compared to traditional braces, Invisalign® braces are easier to clean, don’t restrict your diet, and are more comfortable. And the treatment timeline is faster than conventional braces while involving fewer check-in appointments.

Ready to create the smile you’ve always wanted? Contact our office and schedule a consultation today to determine if you are a good candidate for Invisalign® clear aligners.