Invisalign vs Fastbraces: Which is Right for You?

Trying to choose between Invisalign vs Fastbraces? Discover the pros and cons to help you decide. Uncover the perfect solution for your smile.

There are many reasons to seek out orthodontic care as a teen or adult. Straighter teeth don't just increase your confidence. Better alignment can also support your oral health by making it easier to keep your teeth plaque-free.

These days, there's far more to orthodontia than traditional braces. Braces alternatives include things like Invisalign and Fastbraces and patients have a lot of say in which treatment they pursue.

What are the key differences between Invisalign vs Fastbraces and how can you decide which one is right for you? Re

What Is Invisalign?

Invisalign is a system of clear aligners used to address minor to moderate alignment issues. Unlike other dental correction options, Invisalign is a removable system, which many patients prefer. So far, Invisalign has treated over 17 million patients, the majority of which have been adults.

Most patients will need a minimum of 14 aligner trays, wearing each aligner for up to four weeks. Each tray is custom-made to promote safe, gradual shifting until the teeth are straight, gap-free, and aligned.

What Are Fastbraces?

Fastbraces look and feel a lot more like traditional braces, although there are some key differences. As the name suggests, Fastbraces work faster than traditional braces. Patients can complete their course of treatment in anywhere between three months and one year.

Orthodontists can correct even moderate to severe orthodontic issues using Fastbraces. Though they require fewer wires and fewer adjustments than traditional braces, they can often achieve the same results.

Signs That Invisalign Is Right for You

Invisalign is undoubtedly one of the most popular orthodontic treatments in modern history. Let's take a look at the signs that clear aligners like Invisalign are right for you.

You Have Mild to Moderate Alignment Issues

When it comes to orthodontia, Invisalign is on the more passive side. Clear aligner trays fit like retainers and encourage gentle shifting over time. This kind of treatment works well to fix mild and moderate alignment issues and imperfections, such as:

Small gaps
Overcrowding
Mild overbites and underbites
Crossbites

Invisalign can't correct all misalignment issues, meaning that some patients will need something stronger. Patients tend to opt for Invisalign when their alignment issues fall into the cosmetic category.

You're Good at Forming New Habits

Patients who use Invisalign need to commit to their orthodontic care. Because you can remove your Invisalign aligners, it's up to you to make sure you're wearing them as often as possible. In fact, to see real results, you should wear your trays 20-22 hours every day, taking them out only when you're:

Eating
Drinking liquids other than water
Brushing, flossing, rinsing, and washing your aligner trays

Make sure you're ready to take on the responsibility and change your habits before committing to Invisalign.

Comfort Is Your Priority

If you had braces as a teen, you may remember that associated discomfort. For example, metal brackets can rub against the inside of the cheeks, causing sore spots. Some patients find this sensation unbearable and may prefer the smooth, metal-free surface of Invisalign.

Keep in mind that you can still experience mild discomfort with Invisalign, specifically when you need to change trays. As your teeth start to adjust to a new aligner, you may notice soreness or tenderness in the teeth.

You Want a Discrete Option

Like traditional braces, Fastbraces rely on brackets to keep wires in place. They're made of tooth-colored ceramics and aren't as noticeable as traditional braces, but they're not the most discrete option.

Invisalign isn't a 100% invisible option, but it's a lot less noticeable than any type of braces. It won't impact the shape of your mouth or profile and as long as you prevent staining, it won't have a big impact on the appearance of your smile.

Signs That Fastbraces Are Right for You

Though Fastbraces have been around since the early 90s, we still consider them a modern innovation in dentistry and orthodontia. They're a great choice for many patients, and here are the signs that you're one of them.

You Have Moderate to Severe Alignment Issues

There's no real need to use something like Fastbraces to fix minor alignment issues. However, Fastbraces is ideal for moderate to severe alignment issues like:

Misalignment in the molars
Severe overbites and underbites
Severe overcrowding
Large gaps
Complex crossbites

If you have moderate alignment issues that Invisalign can address, consult your orthodontist about your best option. One in six patients switch from Invisalign to braces, and it may make more sense for you to go straight to Fastbraces.

Speed Is Your Priority

Invisalign is touted as one of the fastest braces alternatives, but this is a bit misleading. Some patients can complete their Invisalign treatment in as little as three months, but this has to do with how mild their alignment issues are.

What Invisalign can fix in six to eight months, Fastbraces can often fix in three to four months. If you want straighter teeth as fast as possible, talk to your orthodontist about Fastbraces.

Habit-Building Isn't Your Forte

There's nothing wrong with admitting that you would struggle with the Invisalign system. Not everyone wants to take a hands-on approach to their orthodontic treatment. If you're worried that you would forget to put your aligners in every day or lose them after taking them out, consider Fastbraces.

Like Invisalign, Fastbraces requires fewer appointments than traditional braces. However, the Fastbrace technology is self-sufficient. All you need to do is practice good oral hygiene and you're good to go.

Invisalign vs. Fastbraces: Learn More at Dental Arts

Teeth straightening options are a lot more diverse in the twenty-first century than they used to be. The best way to decide between Invisalign vs Fastbraces is to schedule a consultation with your orthodontist.

At Dental Arts of Catoosa, Locust Grove, and Bixby, we make it easy for your family to get oral healthcare. We offer preventative and cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and oral surgery for patients of all ages. Contact our office near you or book your appointment online to get started.

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Benefits of Laser Cavity Filling | Dental Arts of OK Guide

By Dental Arts of Catoosa • March 28, 2025

According to the Centers for Disease Control, about 21% of adults ages 20 to 64 have at least one untreated cavity. Leaving a cavity untreated can lead to a severe infection that may spread throughout the body. In rare cases, it can become fatal. Instead of delaying treatment, ask your dentist in Catoosa, OK, about getting a laser cavity filling . What are the benefits of this dental innovation? Read on to find out! Why Seek Treatment? According to the World Health Organization , untreated dental cavities in permanent teeth are the most common health condition worldwide. Cavities are holes that develop due to untreated tooth decay. Acids can wear down (erode) your tooth's protective outer layer (enamel). Common symptoms of a cavity include: Bad breath Toothaches A bad taste in the mouth Sensitivity to hot or cold Facial swelling Bleeding gums If these symptoms sound familiar, consult your Catoosa, OK dentist right away. They can recommend a pain-free cavity treatment. Without treatment, the cavity can reach your tooth pulp (the innermost layer of a tooth). An infection may form on the tip of the tooth's root before spreading to the surrounding tissues. In rare cases, the infection can spread to the bloodstream (sepsis) or the brain. A dental filling can restore your tooth before you require more extensive treatments. What Is Laser Dentistry? Laser dentistry is a minimally invasive dentistry procedure that uses highly concentrated light. The light can remove or reshape tissue. In addition to treating cavities, this dental innovation is also used for: Gum disease Teeth whitening Hypersensitivity Uses Though still used among other modern dental techniques, laser dentistry became common in the 1990s. It can be used for both hard and soft tissue procedures. Hard tissue procedures include: Cavity detection Tooth sensitivity treatment Tooth preparations and dental fillings The laser may find evidence of tooth decay, allowing you to begin immediate cavity treatment. During the procedure, you won't require local anesthesia or traditional drills. Instead, the laser will kill the bacteria in your cavity, improving the tooth's long-term health. Soft tissue procedures include: Crown lengthening Treating gummy smiles Treating tongue frenulum attachment The laser can reshape gum tissue if the gums are covering your teeth, improving the appearance of your smile. Crown lengthening involves reshaping bone and tissue to improve the tooth's structure. This can help with placing future tooth restorations. Other procedures include: Removing benign tumors Treating TMJ Treating obstructive sleep apnea Viewing the inside of a tooth or gum tissue Teeth whitening Treating cold sores Nerve regeneration Benefits A laser cavity filling procedure can help with more than improving dental health. Here are a few benefits to discuss with your family dentist if you need cavity treatment. Cavity Detection Not all cavities appear at a surface level, making them more difficult to detect. In some cases, dentists can struggle to reach the damaged area. The dentist may need to remove teeth to properly view or repair the infected tooth. A dental laser can detect and treat cavities that aren't easy to see. The laser will assess parts of the mouth that other dental instruments can't. Choosing modern dental techniques may save your tooth. Minimally Invasive Dentistry Dental drills can sometimes unnecessarily remove natural, undamaged portions of a tooth. Dental lasers, on the other hand, are precise and less invasive. This precision allows them to remove decayed or damaged tissue without harming surrounding structures. Choosing this minimally invasive dentistry technique can help with improving dental health. If dental drills make you nervous, this option can also provide peace of mind. Since the treatment is minimally invasive, your recovery time may improve. You can get back to eating your favorite foods without prolonged delay. Combats Infection Dental lasers sterilize tissue as they work. This ensures that residual bacteria are eliminated during the procedure. Choosing treatment using a dental laser may help reduce your risk of post-treatment complications, including infection. Carbon dioxide lasers can strengthen your tooth enamel's natural structure, making the tooth more resilient than before. Remember, dental lasers can treat both hard and soft tissues. According to market research company Grand View Research , laser dentistry is primarily used in periodontics (17.8% of all applications). Talk to your dentist if you have periodontal (gum) disease. They can treat the infection before it affects your overall health. Pain-Free Cavity Treatment Modern dental techniques are more effective at finding and cleaning cavities without causing as much pain as older dental instruments. You may not need much or any anesthetic during your procedure. Instead, you can remain comfortable while receiving the treatment you need. Safe for Improving Dental Health If you have a cavity, this dental innovation is a safe and effective treatment option. It's safe for both children and adults. Recognizing these benefits may give you peace of mind before your appointment. Lasers are more precise than drills. There's a lower chance that a dentist will damage other parts of your tooth while removing the infected area. Less Dental Anxiety Since this pain-free cavity treatment is less invasive, it won't cause discomfort, which may ease a patient's dental anxiety. Reduced dental anxiety can encourage patients to return for routine appointments. Scheduling regular appointments and preventive dentistry can protect your oral and overall health. If you have crippling dental anxiety, talk to your Catoosa dentist about sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry can keep you calm during the procedure to ensure you receive the care you need. Your dentist can develop a customized treatment plan based on your concerns. Schedule Your Laser Cavity Filling Getting a laser cavity filling can protect your smile and improve your overall health. Don't delay seeking treatment for your cavity. Instead, consult your Catoosa, OK dentist to determine if this pain-free cavity treatment is right for you. At Dental Arts, we prioritize our patients to ensure they receive the treatment they need. With up to 25% off in-office dental plans, convenient evening and weekend appointments, and a commitment to providing excellent care in a friendly environment, we can make it easy for you to maintain peak dental health. Contact us now to schedule your laser cavity filling appointment!

Dental Bonding vs. Veneers: Which Cosmetic Treatment Is Right for You?

By Dental Arts of Catoosa • March 24, 2025

Cosmetic dentistry is growing at an unprecedented rate. According to Identity Dental Marketing, in 2024, the number of people who underwent treatments like veneers, teeth whitening, and complete smile makeovers significantly increased. The surge in demand reflects a growing desire for brighter, more uniform smiles and increased confidence in personal and professional settings. Both procedures can enhance your smile. However, they differ in their approach, longevity, cost, and suitability for different dental concerns. Understanding the differences between veneers and bonding can help you choose the best option. Keep reading to explore their unique benefits, costs, and which treatment might be the best fit for you. What is dental boding? Dental bonding is when a tooth-colored composite resin is applied to the teeth to correct imperfections. The resin is strategically sculpted, hardened with a special light, and polished to integrate with the natural tooth. This treatment is excellent for minor cosmetic matters and is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to enhance your smile. Dental Bonding Benefits Dental bonding is an effective and affordable way to improve the appearance of your teeth . It is a great option for minor cosmetic enhancements without invasive procedures. Here's a deeper dive into the benefits: Quick and painless: The procedure is usually completed in a single visit, often in less than an hour per tooth Affordable: The cost of veneers vs bonding favors bonding, making it the more budget-friendly solution Reversible: Since very little to no enamel is removed, the procedure can be reversed if desired. Great for minor corrections: Bonding is best for small chips, slight discoloration, and minor gaps between teeth. what are dental veneers? Dental veneers are customized thin shells commonly created out of porcelain and bonded to the teeth' front surface. Veneers are a complete smile transformation. They provide a long-lasting solution for various dental imperfections. Veneers Benefits Dental veneers provide a long-term solution for those looking to enhance their smile. They are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a more dramatic transformation with lasting results. With their ability to mimic the natural translucency of teeth, veneers offer a highly realistic and aesthetically pleasing appearance. Durable and long-lasting: Porcelain veneers can last 10-40 years with proper care Stain-resistant: Unlike natural teeth, porcelain veneers resist staining from coffee, wine, and other pigmented foods Comprehensive smile enhancement: They can cover discoloration, close gaps, fix misshapen teeth, and create a uniform, aesthetically pleasing smile Differences Between Veneers and Dental Bonding Cosmetic dental treatments vary in approach and effectiveness, making it essential to understand which option best suits your needs. When you are looking at dental bonding vs veneers, it is important to know that they both enhance the smile but differ in several ways. Material and Appearance Dental bonding uses a tooth-colored composite resin sculpted directly onto the tooth. Veneers, on the other hand, are made from porcelain or composite material. They offer a highly polished, natural appearance that mimics real teeth. Durability and Lifespan Dental bonding typically lasts five to seven years, while veneers can last 10 to 40 years with proper care. Veneers are more resistant to chipping and cracking compared to bonding. Stain Resistance Composite resin used in bonding can stain over time, especially with regular consumption of wine, tea, coffee. Porcelain veneers, however, are highly stain-resistant, keeping your smile bright for years to come. Procedure Time Bonding is a quick solution, often completed in one visit. Veneers usually require multiple appointments. The veneer process involves: Taking impressions Fabricating the veneers in a dental lab and bonding them to the teeth Tooth Preparation Minimal to no enamel is removed for bonding, making it a more conservative option. This makes bonding an attractive choice for those who want to maintain the integrity of their natural teeth. Veneers require the removal of a thin layer of enamel to ensure a proper fit, making them a permanent choice. Cost of Veneers vs Bonding The cost of veneers vs bonding varies significantly. Bonding is generally more affordable, with an average cost ranging from $300 to $600 per tooth . Veneers, on the other hand, are a more substantial investment, costing between $900 and $2,500 per tooth . The price difference is due to the materials used, the procedure's complexity, and the results' longevity. While veneers have a higher upfront cost, they last longer than bonding. This makes them a worthwhile investment for those seeking a permanent cosmetic solution. Are You a Candidate for Cosmetic Dentistry? Anyone unhappy with their smile due to discoloration, chips, gaps, or uneven teeth may benefit from cosmetic dentistry options like bonding or veneers. However, healthy teeth and gums are essential before undergoing any cosmetic treatment. Issues like cavities or gum disease must be addressed first to ensure long-term success. A consultation with a qualified dentist will help determine the best course of action based on your dental health and cosmetic goals. Why Choose Dental Arts for Your Smile Makeover? At Dental Arts in Locust Grove, OK, we understand that choosing a cosmetic dental procedure is a significant decision. Dr. Michaelsen and his team provide top-tier cosmetic dentistry options in a welcoming, patient-focused environment. Here's why patients trust Dental Arts: Experienced and compassionate care: Our team prioritizes patient health and comfort Flexible scheduling: Evening and early morning appointments make it easier for working professionals to get the care they need Affordable solutions: We offer an in-house dental plan to help reduce costs for our patients Personalized treatment plans: Every smile is unique, and we customize treatments to fit your needs Dental Bonding vs Veneers: Making the Right Choice Choosing between dental bonding vs veneers depends on your specific needs, budget, and long-term goals. Dental bonding benefits those who want a quick, cost-effective fix for minor imperfections. Veneers benefit those seeking a long-lasting, stain-resistant solution for a perfect smile. Consulting a trusted cosmetic dentist can help you determine the best option for your situation. At Dental Arts, we offer comprehensive cosmetic consultations to guide you toward the best treatment for your dream smile. Contact Dental Arts in Locust Grove, OK, today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you achieve the confident, beautiful smile you deserve!