Invisalign vs Braces

With all of the health and aesthetic benefits of straight teeth, it is a common dental treatment. Here at Fairwood Dental Center in Renton, WA, we offer several different types of orthodontics including braces and Invisalign. Keep reading to learn about the differences between the two major options.

The Invisalign trays are to be worn for twenty to twenty-two hours per day. You can take them out to eat, brush, and floss, unlike with braces. While this is a definite convenience factor, it means you will have to be strict with yourself to make sure you wear the Invisalign for the recommended amount of time. Otherwise, treatment will be delayed.

This also means that there are no restrictions on what you can eat with Invisalign, so you do not have to avoid crunchy, hard, sticky, or chewy foods. Since you can brush and floss normally, there are no special supplies you need to purchase like interdental cleaners and floss threaders.

The smooth plastic trays are also more comfortable than metal braces, so the calluses and irritated spots that braces cause are less likely. In addition, the trays are clear. This means you can straighten your teeth discreetly and will not have the metal look to your smile.  

Whether you desire braces or Invisalign for your straightening treatment will depend on your preferences. To learn more, give our Renton, WA office a call at (425) 271-7725 or visit our Fairwood Dental Center website, www.fairwooddental.com. 

Traditional Metal Braces

Straight teeth create a nice smile and healthy teeth. Here at Fairwood Dental Center in Renton, WA, one of the options we have available for orthodontics is traditional metal braces.

Braces are a teeth straightening system that works by applying metal bracing to the teeth that apply continuous pressure. Over time, the pressure moves the teeth into the desired position. About once per month, you will visit us to have your wires tightened in a new direction.

Today’s braces are made of super-strong metal alloys, so they are smoother and faster than braces of the past. Metal brackets are bonded to the front of teeth and a metal wire is clipped in which applies pressure into a certain direction. The duration for wearing braces varies with each case; however, it is usually somewhere between one and three years. You will need to pay extra-special attention to your teeth while brushing and flossing. There will also be certain foods to avoid while you have braces on.

Straight teeth promote a beautiful smile, healthy teeth, and healthy gums. If you are looking to straighten your teeth, traditional metal braces are a very popular option. To schedule your appointment at Fairwood Dental Center in Renton, WA, call our office at (425) 271-7725 or visit our website, www.fairwooddental.com.