Houston Braces

• What To Do If Your Child Is Hesitant About Houston Braces

  Houston braces at Centra Dental in Houston and South Houston not only improve your smile, but they also improve your overall dental health. As great as Houston braces are, many children are rather hesitant about getting dental braces because they are self-conscious or concerned about pain. However, being more informed about our various Houston braces treatments may aid in their hesitation. In this article, we offer some of our tips for helping your child warm up to the idea of getting braces.

  Understand What Exactly Causes Your Child To Feel Hesitant About Houston Braces

  The best way to address your teen’s concerns about dental braces is to understand the root cause of their concerns. Let them express their worries and acknowledge that their hesitation is valid, but can be overcome.

  Reassure Them That Dental Braces Are Common

  Dental braces are already common. In 2015, about 4 million Americans wore dental braces, but they keep growing in popularity. Today, even adults are becoming more open to wearing dental braces thanks to the subtle treatments that Invisalign and ceramic Houston braces offer. Even celebrities undergo dental braces treatment, and chances are someone your child knows and admires–famous or not–is also wearing dental braces. If your friend knows someone who wears Houston braces, it wouldn’t hurt to encourage them to speak to their peer about their experience

  Let Your Child Know That Houston Braces Don’t Cause As Much Pain As They Think

  We get it–metal in your mouth looks very intimidating, but today’s dental braces are so much more lightweight than they were 10 years ago, which significantly reduces how much pain a child may experience. Sure, there is some pain in the very beginning, but if you follow our tips for managing Houston braces pain, they will feel much more comfortable.

  Visit Centra Dental In Houston Or South Houston For A Dental Braces Consultation

  Dental braces are well worth it for a healthier, more beautiful smile, especially with our caring family dentists. If you think it’s time for your child to get braces, then please book an appointment for a Houston braces consultation. We look forward to giving your child a healthier smile and aiding in overcoming their hesitation about braces.

• What to Expect When First Getting Dental Braces at Centra Dental in South Houston

  We’ve previously discussed the best time to get braces. When you have decided it’s time to get braces, you will first want to schedule a Houston braces consultation with us. We understand that many kids and adults wish they knew more information when deciding whether or not dental braces were right for them, so here is what patients of all ages may expect throughout the course of their treatment.

  The Initial Orthodontic Consultation for Houston Braces

  When you come in for your braces consultation, we will gather x-rays, photographs, and molds of your teeth. After our South Houston dentists have taken the time to review the information, we will meet with you to discuss our evaluation and what it means for you. We will explain what we have found in your teeth and address certain concerns regarding the current alignment of your teeth, and the current state of your gums and bite.

  We will go into detail about whether metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign Clear Aligners are the most suitable method for your particular case, as well as educate you about each phase of your treatment. Throughout your progress, we will continue to explain each phase of your treatment and answer any questions you may have as they come to mind.

  Your First Houston Braces Fitting

  After we have completed our consultation with you, we will schedule a future appointment where you get your braces. Here is the step-by-step guide to your fitting.

  • Step 1: Our South Houston family dentist will thoroughly clean and dry your teeth.
  • Step 2: We will apply an orthodontic glue to your teeth and attach the brackets, which will either be small metal or ceramic squares that we affix to the front of your teeth one at a time.
  • Step 3: Lastly, we will place the archwire over your brackets so our dental braces can do their job.

  This process usually takes about 1-2 hours and your mouth may feel slightly sore afterward. This is normal and will gradually fade away over a week or so.

  What Comes Next?

  Over the course of the next few weeks and months, you will get used to having braces and barely notice them until it's time to tighten them.

  Each time we tighten your braces, we do this to ensure they are guiding your teeth to the correct placement. You will feel a bit sore after these appointments, but the soreness will not last as long as it did after your initial fitting. Before you know it, you will have straight teeth and a confident smile.

  Schedule an Appointment With Our South Houston Family Dentist

  Whether you are an adult getting braces, or the parent of a teenager who is about to undergo this treatment, you can rest assured we will provide education and support the entire time. If you are considering dental braces, please schedule an appointment so we can complete our consultation. We look forward to giving you a beautiful smile.

• What To Expect With Metal And Ceramic Houston Braces

  When your child is at or near the age of 10, dental braces may be considered. When you and your child come visit our South Houston family dentist for their teeth cleaning, we will be able to tell you when it may be a good time to begin Houston braces treatment. While your kid may be excited to wear dental braces and get a beautiful smile, we understand there may be a sensation of overwhelm when it comes to all the steps involved in treatment. Because of this, we have put together this guide on what to expect with Houston braces.

  Phase 1: Your First Houston Braces Consultation

  Before getting dental braces, your child must come in for a consultation in which we will advise them on what treatment may work best for them. Most braces dentists conduct their consultation in two parts: 

  • Gathering materials
    • We will gather x-rays, photographs, and/or digital scans or molds of your child’s teeth
  • Evaluating the materials
    • Once gathered, our South Houston braces dentist will study the material and then share our findings with you and examine the bite. At this point, we may recommend a proper treatment plan, including how long to wear dental braces for and what type of dental braces will best meet your child’s needs–ceramic braces, metal braces, or Invisalign.
    • We will also address any concerns you may have about treatment.

  Phase 2: Getting Houston Braces

  After the consultation, we will schedule a future appointment with your child so that our South Houston dentist can place the braces on your child’s teeth. Here’s how this appointment works:

  • Step 1: Thoroughly clean and dry the teeth so that the fitting goes smoothly
  • Step 2: Apply orthodontic bonding glue to the teeth and attach the brackets, which are either small metal or ceramic pieces that we affix to the front of the teeth one at a time. After each bracket is applied, we will utilize a curing light to dry the glue and move onto the next tooth.
  • Step 3: Place the wire across the brackets. This is what applies gentle pressure to the teeth so they gradually move toward the correct alignment

  What Comes Next?

  Over the next few weeks and months, your child will get used to wearing braces. They’ll barely notice them until it’s time to see our South Houston dentist again to tighten them, which we will do at predetermined periods of time that are based on your child’s personal treatment plan. Tightening the wire helps ensure the teeth are continuously moving where they should. Some slight soreness is to be expected after the initial fitting and after we tighten your braces, but it is easily manageable and will fade in a short period of time.

  In Need Of Houston Braces?

  If it’s time for your child to get braces, please book an appointment with our South Houston dentist so we can begin with the consultation. Rest assured that we will answer any and all questions and ensure treatment goes smoothly. We look forward to embracing your smile!

• What Type of Houston Braces Is Best for You?

  Choosing the right type of Houston braces can be a pivotal decision in your orthodontic journey. With numerous options available, it's essential to consider factors such as your dental needs, lifestyle preferences, and aesthetic concerns. Central Dental is here to give you a better understanding of your treatment needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of Houston braces and who might benefit from each.

  Traditional Metal Houston Braces

  Description: Traditional metal braces are the most common type. They consist of high-grade stainless steel brackets and wires that are visible on the front of your teeth.

  Best For: Metal Houston braces are particularly effective for correcting complex tooth issues and are often the best choice for severe misalignments or malocclusions. They are generally the most cost-effective option and are particularly popular among younger patients.

  Considerations: While highly effective, metal braces are the most noticeable type and can affect a wearer's confidence due to their visibility.

  Ceramic Houston Braces

  Description: Ceramic braces function similarly to metal braces but use tooth-colored or clear ceramic brackets that blend more naturally with the teeth, making them less noticeable.

  Best For: They are ideal for patients who are concerned about the aesthetic appearance of metal braces but need the strength of traditional Houston braces. They're popular among older teenagers and adult professionals.

  Considerations: Ceramic braces are more expensive than metal braces and can stain if not properly maintained.

  Invisalign (Clear Houston Braces)

  Description: Invisalign consists of a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move teeth into place. The aligners are custom-made and replaced every few weeks by our Houston dentist to continue teeth movement.

  Best For: Invisalign is best for adults and teens with mild to moderate alignment issues. They are ideal for those who prefer a more discreet treatment option and want the convenience of removing their braces for eating, brushing, and flossing.

  Considerations: While Invisalign offers aesthetic and practical benefits, it may not be suitable for more severe orthodontic issues. They require discipline to wear them the recommended 22 hours a day and are typically more expensive than traditional braces.

  Factors to Consider When Selecting Houston Braces

  Orthodontic Needs: We evaluate the complexity of your dental issues. Traditional metal braces are typically best for more severe misalignments, whereas clear aligners like Invisalign are suited for mild to moderate corrections.

  Aesthetics: If the visibility of Houston braces concerns you, options such as ceramic braces or Invisalign offer less noticeable solutions compared to traditional metal braces.

  Lifestyle Considerations: Consider how braces will fit into your daily life. If you play sports or a musical instrument, certain types of braces might be more practical. Removable options like Invisalign allow for easier eating and dental hygiene.

  Cost: Budget is a crucial factor. Metal braces are generally the most affordable, while options like Invisalign and lingual braces tend to be more expensive.

  Treatment Duration: Discuss with our Houston orthodontist the estimated duration of treatment with different braces. Some options may allow for a quicker treatment process than others.

  Get the Best Houston Braces From Centra Dental

  When deciding which type of braces is best for you, our Houston family dentist considers your specific orthodontic needs, budget, lifestyle, and how much the appearance of braces matters to you. Consulting with our top-rated dentists at Centra Dental is crucial—we can assess your individual needs and recommend the most suitable type of Houston braces, ensuring you achieve the best possible results. At Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles. Book a consultationwith us today for a brighter, more beautiful smile.

• When Are Metal Houston Braces Recommended

  Metal dental braces have long been the traditional, most commonly used method of correcting the alignment of the teeth in both children and adults. Today, though, our South Houston dentist, as well as other dentists in Texas, offer Invisalign and ceramic braces as viable alternatives. With other options available, though, when are metal braces best?

  If You Have Crowded Teeth

  Crowded teeth are fairly easy to spot. Our patients with crowding will also have crooked teeth that overlap one another. Sometimes, people are just born with extra teeth, which can be one of the reasons why crowding occurs, as this disrupts how the teeth are naturally supposed to erupt. If crowded teeth aren’t fixed, this can cause unusual wear patterns in the teeth and encourage excess plaque build-up. Remember, excessive plaque is what causes cavities, meaning our South Houston pediatric dentist patients and adult patients who suffer from crowding are much more prone to cavities.

  Plaque build-up in crowded teeth has a domino-like effect. This means that if the patient suffers from excess bacteria build-up, this can quickly turn into gum disease (gingivitis). On top of rapid decay, crowded teeth may cause our patients to feel insecure and self-conscious, especially if a speech impediment occurs because of their teeth. 

  If You Have an Open Bite

  An open bite (or anterior bite) may not be as common as an overbite, but it is identified as the upper and lower front teeth slanting outwards, so they never touch when a patient closes their mouth. 

  With an open bite, the patient will often have a lisp and the teeth will wear abnormally, causing cracks and discomfort.

  How Metal Dental Braces Help

  Metal Houston braces provide enough force to gradually shift even the most severely crowded teeth to the proper position. They are also highly effective on open bites, which are harder to correct. In essence, metal braces work for virtually every type of case of poor alignment, and because they are so strong, they work quicker than ceramic braces or Invisalign clear aligners would in these patient cases. 

  Affordable Houston Braces at Centra Dental

  If you or your child are in need of dental braces and are considering metal braces, then please book an appointment for the first consultation. We’ll examine the bite and help determine if metal braces are a suitable option to correct it.

• When Our South Houston Family Dentist Recommends Invisalign Clear Aligners

  We recently discussed when we recommend ceramic dental braces, but Invisalign is a more popular alternative that we offer. Here is how Invisalign compares to metal Houston braces and ceramic Houston braces.

  What is it Like to Wear Invisalign Clear Aligners?

  First of all, Invisalign Clear Aligners are made with a flexible plastic that is molded to your teeth in a way that gently and gradually pushes them into the correct alignment. Clear Aligners are transparent, so they go fairly unnoticed. They are also removable, which is one of their greatest benefits.

  When Do Our South Houston Family Dentists Recommend Invisalign Clear Aligners?

  We will take a few factors into consideration when determining whether Invisalign is right for a patient. Among these considerations are:

  How Severe is Your Malocclusion?

  We typically recommend Invisalign treatment if your malocclusion isn’t too severe or problematic. That isn’t to say that Invisalign cannot correct severe misalignment, but it will just take much longer. If your malocclusion is a lighter one, though, Invisalign treatment can take as little as a year.

  When it comes to the severity of your malocclusion, we often recommend metal dental braces to our patients who need very complex corrections. As for ceramic braces, these are suitable for mild-moderate cases.

  Discipline

  Although Invisalign seems to be full of benefits, there are some factors that should be taken into consideration. Discipline is mandatory if you’re wearing Clear Aligners.

  Just because Invisalign is removable, does not mean you should go long without wearing it. We tell our patients to wear their aligners for 22-24 hours a day, which means you need to take extra care not to lose, misplace your aligner trays, or forget them.

  Hygiene

  As with any type of Houston braces treatment, you must make sure to thoroughly brush your teeth after every meal and snack. This ensures no bits of food are left in between your teeth, which would get in the way of the aligners doing their job and would also make you more prone to cavities. 

  Centra Dental South Houston Family Dentist Offers Affordable Invisalign Houston Braces Treatment

  If you would like to correct the alignment of your teeth and think that Invisalign may be suitable for you, then please book an appointment. We will conduct a thorough evaluation and discuss your needs so that we can develop the best custom Houston braces treatment for you.

• When Our South Houston Family Dentists Recommend Ceramic Houston Braces

  Although metal dental braces are by far the most common malocclusion treatment option for our South Houston dentist patients, ceramic braces are growing in popularity–and for good reason. Here is how they compare to metal braces and when we recommend them to our patients.

  What Are Ceramic Houston Braces Like?

  Ceramic dental braces are very similar to metal dental braces, except the brackets that are placed on the teeth are either clear or tooth-colored as opposed to silver. 

  The archwire, which is placed across the brackets in order to put gradual pressure on them to move the teeth into the correct position, ranges from silver to white, or frosted. This enables the braces to further blend into the teeth for a natural appearance. 

  When Do Our South Houston Family Dentists Recommend Ceramic Braces

  When compared to Invisalign, another method for correcting a malocclusion that we offer at our office in South Houston is Invisalign Clear Aligners, ceramic braces straighten the teeth faster–in about 18 to 36 months. Invisalign can take about a year, and even longer if a patient’s personal case is more complex. 

  How severe and complicated our patient’s malocclusion is will play a major role in determining which type of Houston braces are the most suitable for their case, so we often recommend metal braces to our patients in need of the most complicated corrections, and recommend ceramic braces to our patients whose bites aren’t severe and are more on the mild to moderate side of the spectrum. Of course, we could also recommend Invisalign in mild-moderate cases, but some patients worry they may lose their Invisalign Clear Aligners or get a bit lazy in their treatment, so they tend to prefer ceramic braces.

  In addition to bite correction and patient discipline, we also factor in lifestyle and age. If a patient looking into ceramic braces is an athlete and/or is still a child whose adult teeth haven’t fully emerged, then we may refrain from recommending ceramic Houston braces because they tend to be more fragile than traditional metal Houston braces.

  Centra Dental in South Houston Offers Affordable Ceramic Houston Braces

  If you would like to correct the alignment of your teeth and think ceramic braces may be right for you, then please book an appointment. We will happily complete an orthodontic evaluation to address your concerns and needs so that we can design the best custom treatment plan for you.

• When to Consider Houston Ceramic Braces for Your Child

  Ceramic braces are an effective option for children who need orthodontic treatment. How do you know if you should choose this type of Houston braces for your child versus other types like metal and Invisalign? There are several factors to consider along with every child’s unique needs and circumstances. Our top-rated dentists at Centra Dental weigh in.

  Orthodontic Needs

  Houston ceramic braces address a variety of dental issues, such as crooked or misaligned teeth, overbites and underbites, and spacing problems. When considering this orthodontic option, your child’s needs will be thoroughly evaluated by your Houston dentist. It’s important to consult with the dental experts at our clinic to address all your questions and concerns.

  Age and Maturity

  Houston ceramic braces are usually recommended for older children and teens who are responsible enough to practice good oral hygiene. If your child is too young, they may not understand the importance of proper care for their braces. Ceramic braces may be more prone to damage than their metal counterpart. Your Houston family dentist will educate you and your child on how to care for ceramic braces.

  Aesthetic Concerns

  Since ceramic braces mimic the color of natural teeth, they are less visible than the traditional type. This is beneficial if your child does not want a drastic change to their appearance. Houston ceramic braces are popular among pre-teens and teens who are concerned about how they look.

  Hygiene and Maintenance

  If your child is diligent about good oral practices, then ceramic braces may be a viable option. Patients who wear braces are more prone to having bacteria growth inside their mouth since food gets stuck more easily. Make sure your child brushes twice a day and flosses at night. They should also avoid certain food that could damage their braces or cause more bacteria growth. Limit their intake of hard, chewy, and sticky foods to prevent cavities and tooth decay.

  Treatment Duration

  The length of treatment varies per person, but it’s important to be patient and to be open to the possibility that it could take a couple of years. Our orthodontists at Centra Dental provide personalized services based on your child’s oral health and aesthetic preferences. We will be with you every step of the way so you can have a pleasant and stress-free dental experience.

  Schedule an Appointment for Houston Ceramic Braces Today

  If you want to know more about the benefits of Houston ceramic braces, contact our clinic today. Our-top rated dentists will perform a careful examination of your child to determine if this is the best course of treatment. At Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles. We have a clean and safe facility where hygiene is top priority. Aside from Houston braces, we provide all essential dental services, such as teeth whitening, fillers, root canals, and more. Schedule your appointment with our clinic today!

• Which Houston Braces Are Right for You?

  Achieve a brighter, more confident smile with Houston braces. This dental treatment is an effective way to correct crooked teeth and even bite problems. Not only do they boost your self-esteem, but dental braces also improve your oral health. Now the question remains: which type of braces should you get? Our Houston dentist will perform a full examination to determine the best one for you. To give you an idea, here are the different types of braces available.

  Metal Braces

  Also known as traditional braces, metal braces have been around for decades. They are made from high-quality stainless steel brackets that are linked together by a thin wire. Because they put strong pressure on the teeth, they are usually recommended for more extreme cases. They are also more visible and cannot be removed. You can choose from different colored bands to go with your Houston braces. An advantage of metal braces is that it is cheaper. Metal braces can also correct oral issues that ceramic or Invisalign braces are not able to treat.

  Ceramic Braces

  Many adult patients choose ceramic braces because they are less visible. They resemble the natural color of teeth, so they give off a more subtle look. Some patients are able to take pictures or attend events without their braces being too noticeable. Another pro is that ceramic braces move teeth faster than Invisalign. However, take note that ceramic braces are more expensive. They also move teeth more slowly than metal braces. They’re not recommended for young patients because they are less durable, and kids may easily damage them. 

  
  Invisalign Braces

  A third type of Houston braces that are also very popular is Invisalign. This is a type of clear aligner that you can remove and put back in place. Invisalign resembles mouth guards and are custom-made for you. The biggest advantage of Invisalign is you can remove it when eating, taking pictures, attending events, etc. The downside is they are less effective when treating more complex dental issues. You also need to have new Invisalign braces fit every two weeks. So if you have a busy schedule, you may want to consider other options.

  Schedule a Consultation for Houston Braces Today!

  Now that you have an idea of the different types of Houston braces, it’s time to consult with a Houston family dentist. Our top-rated Houston dentist at Centra Dental will take X-rays and molds to determine the right Houston dental braces for you. At our clinic, we strive to give you a pleasant and stress-free dental experience. We have surgically clean air running the whole day to ensure the safety of our patients and staff. We embrace your smiles. As such, we offer a variety of amenities and entertainment to keep you happy during your entire visit. You may also ask us about our dental service specials and insurance we accept. Contact us today to book an appointment!

• Which Is Better: Ceramic Or Metal Houston Braces?

  You and/or your child has likely seen other people wearing dental braces. If someone’s braces are fairly grey in color, then chances are they're wearing metal dental braces–the most common method of correcting a malocclusion. If you see someone who appears to be wearing braces that are off-white in color and blend into the teeth very well, then they are usually wearing ceramic Houston braces. They both achieve the same goal: healthy, perfectly straight teeth, but, what’s the difference between them? Which is better? In this article, our Houston dentists–who treat families in Houston and South Houston–will answer these commonly asked questions.

  Metal Houston Braces

  Metal dental braces have been around for hundreds of years, though today they are much more subtle and lightweight than they used to be, which makes them much more comfortable and effective. However, because they’re metal, their natural dark grey color is quite obvious on teeth.

  Metal dental braces are made up of three components:

  • Metal square-shaped brackets, fixed to the front of your teeth
  • Metal dark gray archwire, placed across the brackets
  • O-rings, which are placed around the bracket and can be of different colors

  When Our Houston Family Dentists Recommend Metal Braces

  Metal dental braces work on just about any malocclusion, mild or severe. This means they have superior strength in order to reduce how long treatment would last, compared to other alternatives.

  Ceramic Houston Braces

  Though less common than metal braces, ceramic dental braces have risen in popularity over the years due to the fact that they are a good compromise between Invisalign and metal Houston braces, as well as for their increased subtlety over metal braces.

  Ceramic braces consist of the following components:

  • Ceramic brackets fixed to the front of your teeth, which blend into your natural tooth color
  • Light-colored archwire placed across the brackets (silver or frosted in color)

  When Our South Houston Family Dentists Recommend Ceramic Braces 

  Though still strong enough to move your teeth to the proper alignment, ceramic isn’t as strong as metal, so we don’t typically recommend ceramic Houston braces for severe malocclusions. They do, however, work wonders for mild to moderate malocclusions on patients of all ages. 

  Affordable Dental Braces At Our Houston Family Dentist Offices

  Whether you are considering Houston braces for yourself or for your child, Centra Dental in Houston and South Houston is proud to be a top-rated office for braces as low as $99 per month. If you plan on getting Houston braces soon, please book an appointment with us so we can conduct an evaluation and determine which method of correction is best for you. In this case, neither ceramic braces nor metal braces are considered a generally "better option". It really comes down to what each individual patient needs and what their priorities are.

• Why Does South Houston Invisalign Only Work For Some Children?

  If your child is nearing middle-school age, then chances are they will start seeing many classmates undergo Houston braces treatment. This is a very common age at which to begin wearing dental braces because most–or all–of their baby teeth have fallen and their adult teeth have completely emerged. Some pre-teens and teenagers may wear Invisalign Clear Aligners, while others may wear ceramic or metal dental braces because our South Houston family dentist said that type of treatment would work best. So, why does Invisalign only work for some and not others?

  Invisalign Clear Aligners Are Made Differently Than Other Houston Braces

  Unlike our ceramic Houston braces or metal Houston braces, Invisalign doesn’t have any wires or metal. In fact, Invisalign Clear Aligners are simply transparent, thin, and flexible plastic that is molded to your child’s teeth and gradually pushes their teeth toward the correct alignment. Teeth that are correctly aligned are healthier and promote better oral health in general, which is why it’s important to undergo Houston braces treatment if necessary.

  Why Our South Houston Family Dentists Only Recommend Invisalign To Some And Not Others

  Houston Invisalign Works Best On Minor Cases

  The type of Houston dental braces we recommend to our patients depends on how severe their malocclusion is. Severe malocclusions are most efficiently and effectively treated by metal dental braces because they are the strongest option available. This is also why metal Houston braces work on virtually all cases. 

  Invisalign, on the other hand, is best suited for our South Houston dentist patients with mild malocclusions (bad bites) that don’t need as dramatic of a correction.

  Our South Houston Braces Dentist Patients Get The Most Out Of Invisalign Treatment By Being Disciplined

  Because Invisalign is removable, this is a flexible treatment, but our patients can’t let flexibility become an excuse for being lazy or irresponsible. Patients must wear their Clear Aligners for 22-24 hours a day, which means they need to be careful not to lose, misplace, or forget to wear their aligners. This is crucial for Invisalign to work properly so patients don’t need a second correction in the future. Patients who worry they may be forgetful or lack the necessary discipline will often have a better experience with ceramic dental braces or metal dental braces.

  Our South Houston Family Dentist Offers Effective Invisalign Treatment

  If you would like to know whether Invisalign is suitable for your child, then please book an appointment with our South Houston dentist. We’ll begin with an evaluation and discuss their needs so that we can develop the best custom dental treatment for them that ensures a beautiful smile for the rest of their life.

• Why Get Houston Braces?

  Everyone deserves a beautiful smile. If you aren’t confident about yours, dental braces can soon change that. Orthodontic treatment enhances your teeth’s cosmetics or how they look, as well as your oral health or how you feel. Houston braces are available in different types, such as metal braces, ceramic braces, and Invisalign. Whichever type you choose, as long as you’re diligent about your dental visits, you’d enjoy the benefits of dental braces.

  Corrects Misaligned Teeth

  Do you find yourself smiling with your mouth closed or covering your mouth when you laugh? Perhaps it’s because of crooked or misaligned teeth? Don’t worry; Houston braces are an effective way to fix these types of dental issues. They reposition your teeth using force until you achieve the desired outcome.

  Treats Spacing Issues

  Overcrowding occurs when there isn’t enough space in your mouth, causing your teeth to gather in an undesired way. On the other hand, too much space in your mouth leads to gaps where bacteria can grow. Visit your Houston dentist to diagnose these problems and start you on your treatment with braces.

  Fixes Bite Problems

  Patients with underbites and overbites have difficulty chewing, talking, and even breathing. They are also aesthetically undesirable, leaving people with self-esteem issues. Improve the way you look and feel through Houston braces. They are an effective treatment for all types of bite bite problems.

  Enhances Oral Health

  Aside from their cosmetic value, Houston braces address health concerns that could be affecting your entire life. We sometimes take basic functions, such as eating and breathing, for granted. Patients with dental problems mentioned above are at-risk for oral injuries. Braces can improve the quality of their lives by reducing conditions like sleep apnea and snoring.

  Timely and Effective Treatment

  Houston braces are not that big of a nuisance in your daily life, considering the benefits you gain from them. Visit your Houston family dentist at least once a month to keep you on track. Remember to care for your braces to prevent damaging them and throwing off your progress. The average duration of your treatment is around 2 years, depending on the severity of your condition. Braces have been around for a long time, and as such, the technology is a proven way to fix your dental issues. 

  Schedule a Visit for Houston Braces Today!

  Whether you need Houston braces to achieve a more confident look or to improve your oral health, you can get your desired results at Centra Dental. We embrace your smiles. Our top-rated South Houston dentist offers a range of vital services, including root canals, whitening, and general cleaning. We have a clean and safe facility to make sure your dental experience is stress-free and pleasant. Surgically clean air circulates all throughout our office. While waiting, the whole family can watch movies, play with toys, and connect to our WiFi. Ask usabout our dental service specials and accepted insurance! We look forward to serving you.

• Why Our South Houston Dentist Patients May Need Houston Braces

  As most people know, orthodontic braces are meant to straighten teeth, but they do much more than just that. Each treatment plan we offer for Houston braces depends on what issues need to be corrected and is perfectly customized to the individual. Here are a couple of the reasons why our South Houston dentist patients may need affordable braces treatment.

  Crowded Teeth

  Teeth crowding occurs when teeth are crooked and overlapping each other, either on the upper teeth, on the bottom teeth, or both. The truth is that some people simply have extra teeth, which don't fit in the mouth properly. This is a major cause of crowding and disrupts the natural way in which the teeth are supposed to erupt.

  What Problems Can Crowding Teeth Cause?

  When our patients suffer from crowding, we tend to see unusual wear patterns of their teeth. One of the biggest dental health problems caused by crowding is excessive plaque build-up. Although some patients who don't have extra teeth can still experience heavy plaque build-up, this is especially common for people who do have extra teeth because it's too difficult to get in between them when they brush or floss. Plaque build-up is the leading cause for cavities, so those who have crowded teeth can experience accelerated tooth decay.

  Plaque build-up in crowded teeth has a domino effect. If the patient suffers from accelerated decay, they can also potentially suffer from gingivitis, or gum disease because there is too much bacteria stuck in between the gums that is left untreated. Aside from poor oral health, crowding can cause issues with patients' self-esteem. Additionally, severe crowding can lead to speech problems, which can disrupt their school, work, and their confidence as well.

  Open Bite

  An open bite is also known as an anterior bite. It occurs when the upper teeth and lower teeth slant out in the front, so they never touch once an individual's mouth is closed.

  What Problems Can An Open Bite Cause?

  Similar to crowding, open bites may cause the patient to have problems with confidence and speech. When it comes to speech challenges, those who suffer from an open bite will often struggle to pronounce several words because they develop a lisp. This type of malocclusion (bad bite) can also prevent the patient from chewing their food properly.

  Another problem caused by open bites is abnormal wearing of the teeth because the back teeth are coming into contact more often than they should. This can eventually lead to discomfort and even cracking in the teeth.

  Affordable Houston Braces at Centra Dental in South Houston

  These are both very common reasons for needing orthodontic braces, not only for cosmetic purposes, but also to help our patients achieve their best dental health and a confident smile. If you or your child have crowded teeth or an open bite, please book an appointment with our South Houston dentist so that we can complete a consultation and help you decide on an affordable treatment plan. 

• Why You Might Need Rubber Bands with Houston Braces

  Houston braces are a common way to correct alignment issues like crooked or improperly-spaced teeth, using wires and brackets to apply pressure that shifts your teeth into the proper position. Oftentimes, our South Houston dentist will add rubber bands to your metal or ceramic braces treatment plan in order to increase the force applied and shift the teeth faster and more effectively.

  Why Our South Houston Dentist Uses Rubber Bands With Braces

  Dental braces work by applying pressure to the teeth through a series of brackets and wires, which gradually shift teeth to where they should be. If our South Houston family dentist adds rubber bands to you or your child’s braces treatment, it provides added tension. This not only eases the teeth’s movement but also accelerates this process. These rubber bands attach to the brackets themselves and can be applied in a variety of configurations designed for your unique orthodontic needs. Rubber bands with Houston braces are most often used to correct these issues:

  • Overbite
  • Underbite
  • Spacing issues
  • Crooked teeth
  • Other jaw alignment issues

  How to Use Rubber Bands with Houston Braces

  When our South Houston dentist first applies rubber bands to your braces during your visit, you’ll learn where to place them and how. They are easy to put on and remove, the latter of which should be done when eating, brushing, and flossing. Our South Houston dentist will send you home with a large supply of rubber bands, as a new set should be used each day to ensure proper hygiene is maintained. It’s possible that the placement of your rubber bands will change over the course of your dental braces treatment in order to place pressure on different teeth and parts of the jaw so that your teeth shift at the right pace and into the right position. 

  Sometimes rubber bands with braces can cause discomfort, especially when first applied or when our South Houston family dentist changes their position in your mouth. This is usually eased with over-the-counter pain medication. It’s also recommended that certain foods, like sticky candy and gum, be avoided, just as with dental braces alone.

  See Why So Many Families Choose Centra Dental For Their Houston Braces

  We know you have many options when it comes to South Houston family dentistry, which is why we strive to provide the kind of expert care that cultivates long-lasting relationships through regular visits and life-long dental support. When you choose Centra Dental for your South Houston family dentistry needs, you’re part of our family! If you think it’s time for you or your child to begin Houston braces treatment, call us to schedule an appointment. Our South Houston Family Dentist will complete a thorough dental exam and provide you with the best recommendations for orthodontic treatment. We provide a wide array of dental services to meet the needs of everyone in your family, keeping your teeth healthy and your smile bright.