South Houston Dentist

• Is an Electric Toothbrush More Effective Than a Manual Toothbrush?

  Several years ago electric toothbrushes appeared on the market as an alternative to manual toothbrushes. How do they compare in terms of effectiveness, though?

  The Pros and Cons of Manual Toothbrushes

  Manual toothbrushes have been around for ages and are the default method for cleaning our teeth. They are quite effective, so long as the correct method is used. The correct way to brush your teeth with a manual toothbrush is to hold the brush at a 45-degree angle and brush all the surfaces of the teeth (front, back, and chewing edges) in slow and gentle, circular motions. Be sure to brush for 2 minutes.

  Manual toothbrushes are readily available at grocery stores, pharmacies, dollar stores, and even gas stations. Because of this, they are very inexpensive, easy to shop for, and easy to replace at the last minute. As for drawbacks, manual toothbrushes may be a bit tricky for younger children to use, so our pediatric dentists advise parents to help their kids each time they brush. When using manual brushes it is very easy to start brushing a little too hard, which can lead to pain and sensitivity in the gums.

  The Pros and Cons of Electric Toothbrushes

  Electric toothbrushes, although more expensive, may be the better option for some, including for patients who wear braces. The biggest benefit of electric toothbrushes is that they do all the work. They move the brush-head bristles in circular motions at the right pace with the right amount of pressure. You just have to hold the brush.

  Many electric options come with a built-in timer that goes off every 30 seconds to remind the user to move to the next area of their mouths. They also feature a timer that goes off at two minutes to let the user know when they can stop brushing. Some models even offer different modes and speeds for daily cleaning, tongue cleaning, and deep cleaning.

  Interestingly enough, our South Houston dentists have found that electric toothbrushes may keep children more engaged, which will encourage healthy habits early on. At our patient's dental cleanings, we have found that those who used an electric toothbrush while wearing braces were getting a better clean with less effort. As for patients who didn't know how to properly brush their teeth at first, we noticed they had experienced a reduced amount of plaque after regularly using an electric brush. On the other hand, patients who were already brushing correctly with a manual toothbrush and switched to an electric one did not experience a major difference.

  Which Toothbrush do Our South Houston Dentists Recommend?

  Our general dentists and pediatric dentists at Centra Dental recommend both types of toothbrushes. At the end of the day, it is up to the individual to decide which method they are most comfortable with, as both are highly effective. Pairing regular teeth cleanings (twice a year) with proper hygiene will help in achieving pristine oral health.

• Is Invisalign a Good Idea for Your South Houston Teenager?

  By now it’s no secret that Invisalign is a popular method for correcting a bad bite. Nowadays, more and more dentists are offering this in addition to traditional metal braces and ceramic Houston braces. If we offer all of these dental braces treatments, is Invisalign still the most effective option for your teenager?

  The Difference Between Metal or Ceramic Braces and Invisalign

  Metal braces have been the primary form of treatment for teeth and jaw alignment for many decades now. This is precisely why they are still trusted by many of our South Houston dentists’ patients today. Ceramic braces are very similar, but they differ in that they blend into the teeth more and while they are strong, they aren’t as strong as metal and can be fragile. Nevertheless, they are a very effective treatment for moderate malocclusions. 

  When undergoing treatment with both metal or ceramic braces, our South Houston family dentist will regularly tighten the patient's wires to guide their teeth to the correct position. There is some initial discomfort, but it doesn't last long.

  Invisalign, on the other hand, involves no wires. Invisalign Clear Aligners are much like clear plastic retainers that are made by completing a 3D scan of the patient's mouth. With our 3D scans, we are able to make different aligner trays that will gradually shift the teeth until they are straight. 

  The Pros and Cons of Invisalign Treatment

  The undisputed pro of Invisalign is that, because the aligner trays are clear, hardly anyone actually realizes that a patient is undergoing any treatment. This is perfect for the teenager who prefers a more subtle treatment and is a little self-conscious. Another factor that makes it so appealing is that your teenager can remove the trays for mealtimes. A third pro is that, compared to braces, there are much fewer consultations needed, since the aligners are already made.

  When it comes to the downsides of Invisalign treatments, your teenager needs to be careful not to lose or misplace their clear aligners. Another downside that can be off-putting is that the ability to remove the aligners during meals means that the patient needs to be extremely disciplined, as Invisalign needs to be worn strictly for 20-22 hours a day. Patients also need to make sure that they thoroughly brush their teeth after each meal so they ensure no food particles put stress on the aligners, making it harder for the teeth to move where they need to. 

  Visit Our South Houston Braces Dentist to See if Invisalign is the Best Treatment for Your Teen

  If you think your teen may be a great candidate for Invisalign treatments, then please book an appointment with us. At this braces consultation, we will get a better understanding of what is the best treatment plan for your teen. 

• Is it Too Late For Adults to Get Houston Braces?

  At our South Houston family dentist office, we are often asked by our adult patients if they can benefit from Houston braces just as much as our younger patients do. The short answer is: yes. In fact, we highly encourage adults to wear dental braces if they have crooked teeth and/or a malocclusion, otherwise known as a “bad bite”.

  Malocclusions Affect Kids and Adults Just the Same

  There are different kinds of malocclusions, each with different dental braces treatments. If you had a malocclusion as a teenager, then chances are it did not go away when you became an adult. 

  If you do not fix your bad bite, this will cause an array of dental health issues. This problems may include, but are not limited to:

  • Headaches
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Speech impairment
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Difficulty digesting

  As adults, getting Invisalign Clear Aligners, ceramic braces, or metal braces will certainly correct these issues, though it may or may not take longer than it would for a child. Regardless, properly aligned teeth are vital, no matter how long it takes to achieve this.

  Centra Dental in South Houston Offers Different Houston Braces Options for Different Adult Cases

  Invisalign Clear Aligners

  For adults with minor cases, Invisalign may be ideal because it is not only flexible in terms of wear and maintenance, but it is also the most subtle treatment we offer. This is great for adults who may not be pleased with the idea of wearing metal braces.

  Ceramic Houston Braces

  As an alternative treatment plan, adults with mildly to moderately bad bites may benefit from ceramic dental braces. This method is the next most subtle treatment option, since both the brackets and the archwire easily blend in with the color of your natural teeth. 

  Metal Dental Braces

  Metal braces are the least subtle treatment. However, they are lighter in weight and more comfortable than they used to be. Metal Houston braces work on all malocclusions, especially on the more severe cases. Our metal braces can move teeth vertically, align teeth that are higher than they should be, and also rotate the teeth. This sounds rather painful, but rest assured you will not feel any pain. You will only feel slight soreness whenever we tighten the wire, but this should not last long.

  Centra Dental in South Houston Gives Adults Straight, Healthy Teeth

  If you're an adult hoping to correct your bite, then please book an appointment with us. We will complete our orthodontic evaluation, address your concerns, and design the best treatment plan for you.

• Is It Too Late For Adults To Wear Houston Braces?

  As a South Houston family dentist that specializes in Houston braces, many of our pediatric patients’ parents ask us if it’s too late for them to wear dental braces. The truth is that it’s never too late. In fact, we highly encourage adults to wear dental braces if they have crooked teeth and/or a malocclusion, otherwise known as a “bad bite”.

  Adults May Have A Bad Bite Since Childhood

  There are different kinds of malocclusions, including overbites and underbites. If you had a malocclusion as a child, then chances are you still have a similar problem today. If you don’t fix your bad bite, this will cause a multitude of dental health issues, such as:

  • Headaches
  • Tooth decay
  • Gum disease
  • Speech impairment
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Difficulty digesting

  Getting Braces Young Is Better Than Waiting, But Adult Treatment Is Still Just As Effective

  Although we recommend getting braces as a child because children's teeth are more moldable, this doesn’t mean adult treatment is out of the question. It may take longer, but adults who undergo Houston braces treatment will also benefit from a straight, beautiful smile. Our South Houston braces dentist offers different types of dental braces:

  • Metal Houston Braces, which are the most common method of orthodontic correction and are especially efficient at correcting even the most severe case.
  • Ceramic Houston Braces, which are increasing in popularity due to their tooth-like color and impressive strength. This makes them a viable alternative to metal dental braces for patients who dont want to draw attention to their mouths while they undergo treatment.
  • Invisalign Clear Aligners, which are the most subtle method of malocclusion correction because clear aligners are nearly invisible and offer more flexibility in terms of wear.

  Get Adult Houston Braces With Our South Houston Family Dentist At Centra Dental

  If you’re an adult and are worried about your smile, don’t fret. We want you to feel confident in your beautiful smile. If you think dental braces might be an option for you, then please book an appointment with us. We will begin with the initial dental braces consultation to address your concerns and then design the best treatment plan for you. With our braces starting at $99 a month, we look forward to embracing your smile, affordably.

• Is South Houston Invisalign Right For You

  Invisalign is a popular method for correcting a malocclusion. A malocclusion occurs when your teeth are misaligned due to crowing, excessive teeth, overbites, underbites, and other abnormalities in your bite. At Centra Dental in Houston and South Houston, we offer metal dental braces, ceramic dental braces, and even Invisalign Clear Aligners to cater to different needs. In this article, we will discuss what makes a good candidate for Invisalign by our South Houston dentist.

  Invisalign Versus Other Houston Braces

  Our Houston braces dentist offers multiple dental braces because, although one is not technically better than the other, one type of Houston braces treatment may be more effective than the other for each unique individual. Invisalign tends to work best for patients with mild cases, while metal Houston braces are effective for mild to severe bad bites. Further, ceramic Houston braces will work for moderate cases. Here is how metal and ceramic dental braces compare in more detail. 

  The Pros and Cons of Invisalign Houston Braces To Consider

  Here are some things to consider if you are considering Invisalign treatment with our South Houston dentist to improve your smile.

  Pros Of South Houston Invisalign

  The greatest benefit of Invisalign is that hardly anyone actually realizes that you are undergoing the treatment. This makes Invisalign ideal for teenagers who feel rather self-conscious about dental braces or for adults who would prefer a subtle treatment.

  Additionally, Invisalign Houston braces offer flexibility in that you can remove them at mealtimes and, if you’ve followed our tips on how to get the most out of your South Houston braces treatment, you can also skip a few hours of treatment for a special occasion.

  Cons Of South Houston Invisalign Treatment

  Most cons associated with Invisalign tend to have to do with each patients’ discipline. Since Invisalign offers more flexibility than our other Houston braces, patients need to exercise more discipline. Don’t misplace or lose your clear aligners, and be sure to keep up proper South Houston braces hygiene.

  If You’re Considering Invisalign Houston Braces, Visit Our Dentists At Centra Dental In Houston And South Houston

  If you would like to improve the appearance and the health of your smile, then Invisalign might be right for you. To be sure, however, please book an appointment with our South Houston dentist so we can begin with a Houston braces consultation.

• Keeping Up Your Oral Hygiene When Wearing South Houston Invisalign

  Good oral hygiene means coming to dental cleanings with us twice a year, brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoridated toothpaste, and flossing every night. With Houston braces, though, you have to take extra special care of your teeth and be strict on yourself when it comes to your oral hygiene routine.

  Brush Your Teeth More Often

  First and foremost, it’s important to brush your teeth more often when you're undergoing Houston braces treatment. If you wear Invisalign Clear Aligners, you may be more prone to cavities if you don't brush your teeth enough because food can get stuck between your teeth and trapped in the aligners. When food is stuck between your teeth it poses as a barrier between the Invisalign trays and your natural teeth, impeding how Invisalign does its job.

  Our South Houston dentists recommend that in addition to brushing twice daily, you also brush after each meal or snack you eat. This will help ensure no food particles get stuck in between your teeth, which not only allows Invisalign to do its job but also serves as a great preventative measure against cavities.

  Our south Houston family dentists also recommend you carry a travel toothbrush and toothpaste with you so you can always have a toothbrush handy. This way you can be sure to brush as often as needed.

  Floss More Carefully

  One of the benefits of Invisalign is that it’s removable, which makes flossing a lot easier than it would be if you wore metal Houston braces or ceramic Houston braces. Be sure to carefully floss every night before bed and even between meals to ensure that your clear aligners aren’t obstructed by anything. 

  Do Thorough Oral Rinses

  There are special oral rinses that our South Houston dentist patients who wear metal or ceramic dental braces can benefit from. Our dentists recommend you use a fluoridated mouthwash before bed after you’ve finished brushing and flossing your teeth to encourage stronger, healthier teeth while you undergo Houston braces treatment. Using a fluoridated mouth rinse has been proven to protect against cavities and strengthen the enamel in our South Houston family dentist patients.

  Our South Houston Braces Dentists Can Help You Maintain Proper Hygiene While Wearing Invisalign Clear Aligners

  If you Are currently undergoing Invisalign treatment 10 please book an appointment so that we can complete a dental check-up. We will perform a thorough teeth cleaning and check that you’re maintaining adequate hygiene and health. We look forward to embracing your smile! 

• Keeping Your Teeth Clean While Wearing Houston Braces

  Houston braces are for absolutely anyone who suffers from a malocclusion–a bad bite. We are proud to offer affordable metal braces, ceramic braces, and even Invisalign Clear Aligners to meet various patient needs. In monitoring our patients’ progress during their dental braces treatment, we are often asked how they can keep their teeth as clean as possible, so in this blog, our Houston family dentists will offer our top tips for maintaining your best dental health possible while undergoing Houston braces treatment.

  Tip 1: Brush Your Teeth More Frequently If You Wear Houston Braces

  When you don’t wear Houston braces, we advise you to brush your teeth twice a day–once in the morning and again right before bed. When wearing braces, however, it is easy to miss a few spots when brushing your teeth, potentially resulting in cavities. To avoid this, our South Houston dentist recommends carefully brushing your teeth after every meal and snack. It may seem excessive, but this is the best way to prevent food from getting stuck in the brackets of your metal and ceramic dental braces, or behind the plastic of your Invisalign Clear Aligners. Remember that food left behind impedes your treatment from working properly and will put you at greater risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

  Tip 2: Consider Using Interdental Brushes

  Interdental brushes, also known as brush picks, are a great step between brushing your teeth and flossing because it gets rid of any stray food particles that were left behind in between your teeth after brushing. We recommend using them after you brush throughout the day and then switching to string floss at night before bed, which brings us to our next tip...

  Tip 3: Floss Your Teeth Every Night

  Even if you use a brush pick, there might be smaller, harder-to-reach food particles that you may have still missed, but the good news is that floss can easily remove these. Today, there are several types of floss available, including floss designed to be used while wearing dental braces. Although flossing can be tricky with Houston braces, patience helps and so can we the next time you come to our South Houston dentist office for a cleaning and a check-up.

  Tip 4: Get A Houston Braces Teeth Cleaning At Our Houston And South Houston Dental Offices Every 6 Months

  By coming into our Houston family dentist office for your teeth cleanings twice a year, we can check on your overall dental health and clean your teeth more deeply and thoroughly than you would at home. Additionally, this gives us a chance to ensure your teeth are shifting as they should and that you aren’t developing any oral health concerns. If it’s time to get a dental cleaning, please book an appointment so we can schedule one as soon as possible and assess the health of your teeth.

• Make South Houston Invisalign Work For You

  Over the last decade, Invisalign Clear Aligners have risen in popularity among our South Houston family dentist patients. Metal Houston braces may work for all types of bad bites (malocclusions), but Invisalign can be just as effective at straightening your teeth, so long as our South Houston dentist recommends Invisalign as an effective treatment for you. Here is how you can make sure Invisalign works for you as best as it possibly can.

  Remove Your Clear Aligners At Meal Times

  Invisalign Clear Aligners are a highly flexible orthodontic treatment, so it’s no surprise that one of the greatest perks that come with Invisalign is that the clear aligners are removable, unlike the metal Houston braces our South Houston dentist also offers. 

  In addition to removing your aligners when it’s time to eat, we also recommend avoiding crunchy or excessively chewy foods, as your teeth will temporarily be tender and sore each time you get a new set of Invisalign.

  Brush Your Teeth More Often

  Much like with regular dental braces, it’s important to brush your teeth after each snack and meal to ensure no food gets stuck in between your teeth, as this gets in the way of your Invisalign clear aligner trays and disrupts how they move your teeth. Flossing nightly is also crucial so you don’t let any food sit in between your teeth and cause cavities.

  Wear Invisalign As Directed By Our South Houston Dentists

  Invisalign must be worn for 20-22 hours a day, which includes the time you spend sleeping. This helps ensure that your teeth are constantly being shifted into the necessary position to create a straight smile that will last a long time. If you wear them as directed and maintain proper dental hygiene, you may be able to skip the Invisalign on a special occasion.

  Our South Houston Family Dentists Want to Ensure Your Invisalign Treatment Is Successful

  If you are planning to start Invisalign, please book an appointment with us so we can examine your teeth and determine an appropriate treatment plan. We want to ensure Invisalign gives you the straight, healthy smile you deserve for life.

• Managing Houston Braces Pain

  One of the greatest worries our Houston and South Houston patients experience when it’s time to start their Houston braces treatment is that there will be plenty of pain involved. We understand where their worry is coming from, too. After all, the idea of moving your teeth sounds rather daunting. However, don’t let this turn you away from necessary dental braces treatment; although some pain or discomfort with metal dental braces, ceramic dental braces, and Invisalign Clear Aligners is common, it is not permanent and can easily be managed. In this article, we will talk about our favorite ways to help you manage your Houston braces pain.

  What Causes Houston Braces Pain?

  There are a few causes of braces pain, including:

  The Initial Fitting

  In general, pain during your Houston braces treatment is the worst on the day you get them. This is because you have likely never worn an orthodontic appliance before, so this is a very new sensation. Over the next following days, the pain will gradually become a slight discomfort, eventually fading as you get used to them.

  Certain Foods

  If you eat the foods we recommend you avoid, you may get them stuck in your braces or Invisalign Clear Aligner trays, which causes tension and pain in your teeth. You could also snap your wire if you wear other types of Houston braces, which can poke at your cheek.

  Tightening Your Braces

  Throughout your Houston braces treatment, we will regularly tighten your wires. If you wear Invisalign, we will regularly give you a new set of aligners. When you undergo this adjustment, you may feel some discomfort but it won’t last nearly as long as the first time you got your braces.

  Different Ways to Manage Pain While Wearing Dental Braces

  Over-The-Counter Pain Killers

  OTC pain medication is very effective when you first get your braces. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort after we tighten your wires at our Houston and South Houston family dentist offices, then consider taking some medication prior to your appointments.

  Ice Packs Or Frozen Veggies

  If you are feeling any soreness in the early stage of your dental braces treatment, we recommend icing the outside of your cheek where you feel discomfort. This will greatly reduce swelling and numb your mouth a little so you get some much-needed braces pain relief.

  Dental Braces Wax

  We give all of our Houston braces patients some orthodontic wax, which should be used if a wire or a bracket is causing pain. You can mold the wax and fit it around the affected area in order to create a barrier between the wires and the tissues in your mouth.

  Our Houston Family Dentists Will Help You Manage Dental Braces Pain

  Now that you know more about the adjustment period when you first get Houston braces, please book an appointment with us at our Houston or South Houston dentist offices if your pain isn’t going away, or if you are thinking about getting braces. We will gladly do an exam and give you further guidance on what to expect and how to manage your discomfort. 

• Myths and Facts About Houston Braces

  Are you, or your child, the type of person who is excited about getting Houston braces and is looking forward to a brand new smile that can be worn confidently? Perhaps you or your child are worried about whether Houston braces treatment will be painful, especially if either of you has heard horror stories or believes some common myths. In this article, we will address some more myths about dental braces and explain the facts so you can feel more confident before you begin your South Houston braces treatment. 

  Myth #1: If Houston Braces Move My Teeth, They Must Hurt

  We aren’t surprised that this myth is still commonly shared today, since the idea of metal pushing your teeth sounds like it would hurt. However, today braces are far thinner and lighter in weight than they used to be, which has greatly minimized discomfort over the years. Now, regardless of if you choose Invisalign Clear Aligners, ceramic dental braces, or metal dental braces, there will be some minor soreness when you first get them since your teeth aren’t used to them. This will only be temporary though and shouldn’t be intolerable. If it comes down to it, this discomfort is nothing that icing and possibly over-the-counter painkillers can’t alleviate.

  After a few days, you will adjust and feel just fine.

  Myth #2: After Houston Braces, Your Teeth Will Be Straight For the Rest of Your Life

  Although braces do straighten your teeth, all that hard work can be reversed if you don’t follow our recommendations for caring for and maintaining your new smile. This is where retainers come in. Retainers are an orthodontic appliance that must be worn after you finish your Houston braces treatment. We typically tell our patients to wear them all day and all night–except when they’re eating–for at least a year. Afterward, we recommend wearing them every night. This ensures your teeth remain straight and don’t easily become misaligned again.

  Myth #3: You Have to Give Up a Lot of Your Favorite Foods When Wearing Dental Braces or Invisalign Clear Aligners

  We do recommend you avoid sugary, sticky foods and drinks, as well as crunchy snacks, as this will minimize your risk of cavities and your risk of breaking your braces. Otherwise, you can eat as you normally would, but definitely take smaller bites of your food.

  Ready for Houston Braces? Schedule a Consultation With Our South Houston Family Dentist

  If you think it’s time for you or your child to begin South Houston braces treatment, then please book an appointment with us so we can begin with a consultation to develop the appropriate treatment plan.

• Our South Houston Dentist Office Wants You to Get the Most Out of Your Dental Benefits Before the End of the Year

  Did you know that your dental insurance benefits reset each year? Most dental insurance plans last for the calendar year, meaning you will use all of your unused benefits after December 31, 2019. It’s also important to be aware that what is left of your benefits does not carry into the new year, so you will have to pay your insurance premium once again in order to gain access to new benefits. There is still some time left before your benefits expire, so here are just some of the services you should prioritize before the deadline.

  Dental Services to Take Advantage of at Centra Dental in South Houston

  Dental Cleanings

  Most dental insurance plans offer some or complete coverage for two dental cleanings a year because they are the most important treatment you can get to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you haven’t received a cleaning in over six months, now is the perfect time. When you come in for your dental cleaning at Centra, we do a deep cleaning while carefully checking your teeth and gums. Many patients are surprised to find out that plenty of illnesses and diseases first show signs in the mouth, so we can catch the earliest symptoms and act accordingly.

  Major Dental Treatments

  Some treatments, such as dentures, partials, dental crowns, and dental bridges, may take at least two visits to complete. Now is the perfect time to get started on those treatments, especially if you have already met your deductible. A deductible is the amount of money you have to pay in treatments before your dental benefits kick in. Once it’s paid, your coverage will take care of a portion of your treatment costs. This is ideal for these bigger treatments you may have been holding off on.

  Centra Dental in South Houston Wants You to Enjoy Your Benefits

  Don’t let your insurance premium or deductible go to waste. If you would like to receive any of these treatments before December 31st, please book an appointment with us. We will gladly fit you in so you can have maximize your benefits and have a healthy smile to show for it.

• Properly Wearing Your Retainers After Houston Braces

  After Houston braces, our patients have to wear orthodontic appliances known as retainers in order to maintain the new alignment of their teeth. There are several types of retainers available, each with different pros and cons. However, they all have one thing in common besides protecting your teeth from shifting again: they need to be worn properly in order to maximize their effectiveness. When you wear your retainers and take proper care of them, your teeth will be straight and healthy for years and years to come!

  Wearing Your Retainers As Instructed

  We understand that wearing retainers after finishing Houston braces treatment is quite the dread, but it is absolutely critical if you want to enjoy your brand new smile for years to come. Otherwise, your teeth will quickly go back to their old, misaligned position. We typically recommend that our patients at our Houston and South Houston family dentist offices wear their retainers for 24 hours a day (except when eating) for at least 6 months to a year. However, this will depend on the individual. Once this initial time period is over, you should wear your retainers every night while you sleep.

  Cleaning Your Orthodontic Retainers

  There are different types of retainers available to our patients. Much like our Houston braces, which type we recommend to you depends on your particular case. Since you spend much of your time wearing your retainers in the first phase, they will collect whatever is on your teeth, including bacteria, plaque, and tartar. If illness-causing bacteria such as streptococcus is left to accumulate on your retainers, you may get sick with an infection, so it is imperative you clean them every day. 

  Traditional Hawley retainers and transparent removable retainers may be brushed with a soft-bristle toothbrush after each meal. You may also be able to soak your retainers in a cleaning solution, but be sure to ask us for recommendations so you’re keeping your retainers in tip-top condition. We can also discuss how long you should soak them for, as you don’t want to soak them too long. Soaking Hawley retainers for too long may corrode the metal components.

  Bonded retainers, on the other hand, are best cleaned by flossing them when you floss your teeth since this type of retainer is glued to the back of your teeth. Our Houston and South Houston family dentists will be more than happy to teach you the proper flossing technique as well.

  Visit Our Family Dentist In Houston And South Houston To Learn About Proper Retainer Care

  If you are about to wear retainers or have been wearing them for some time, then please book an appointment with us so we can check on your alignment and assess how well you are taking care of your teeth. We will help keep your perfect smile for years to come!

• Pros and Cons of Bonded Orthodontic Retainers After Houston Braces

  As you approach the end of your Houston braces treatment, whether you’ve been wearing metal Houston braces, ceramic dental braces, or Invisalign, we’ll have a conversation about how to maintain your new smile with a retainer. There are different types of orthodontic retainers and we’ve previously talked about traditional removable retainers known as Hawley retainers. This time, we’ll discuss the less common bonded retainers.

  What Are Bonded Retainers

  Bonded retainers are permanent retainers made of wire that is shaped to fit the new alignment of your teeth. Similar to metal or ceramic Houston braces, they are cemented to your teeth with a dental-grade glue, except instead of being on the front of your teeth, these retainers are glued behind your teeth. Many family dentists or orthodontists around the country tend to bond them behind your lower teeth only, and they can only be removed by a dentist or orthodontist. 

  Although rare, our South Houston dentist will only recommend a bonded retainer following Houston braces treatment if the patient won’t follow our guidelines on how to properly wear a removable retainer.

  Pros and Cons of Wearing Permanent Bonded Retainers After Houston Braces Treatment

  Much like how ceramic braces, metal dental braces, and Houston Invisalign Clear Aligners each has positives and negatives, retainers do as well.

  Pros of Bonded Retainers

  • Bonded retainers are a worry-free method for keeping your teeth straight because you don’t have to abide by a certain schedule, which means you don’t run the risk of making your teeth crooked or separate again.
  • No one can tell you’re wearing a permanent retainer, so there is no need to feel self-conscious about it
  • Wearing a permanent retainer doesn’t affect your speech, which is common with other types of retainers.

  Cons of Wearing Permanent Retainers

  • Flossing is harder when wearing a bonded retainer because it gets in the way of the string. This causes plaque build-up and possibly gum disease
  • The metal might irritate your tongue or gums

  Our South Houston Family Dentist Will Determine if a Bonded Retainer is Right For You

  As you or your child near the end of Houston braces treatment, please book an appointment with our South Houston dentist so we can take your needs into account, decide if a permanent retainer is a good idea for your particular case, and have your retainers made. We look forward to giving you a smile you can enjoy for the rest of your life.

• Pros and Cons of Clear Retainers After Houston Braces Treatment

  We’ve previously discussed how bonded retainers work and how traditional wire retainers work following Houston braces treatment. Retainers are a must after dental braces treatment because they keep your teeth in their new alignment while the teeth settle into the soft tissues. This process helps ensure the teeth remain straight and properly aligned for longer. If a patient doesn’t wear their retainers as our South Houston family dentist instructed them to, then it is much more likely that their teeth will separate again and go back to their previous alignment. Here is what translucent retainers are like.

  What Are Clear Retainers

  Clear retainers are very similar to Invisalign clear aligners, except the retainers don’t shift the teeth. These retainers are created by taking a mold of your new, perfect smile so that when you wear the retainers, they help retain the position of your teeth. These retainers are removable as well.

  Clear plastic retainers are more common than bonded retainers, but they aren’t as common as traditional Hawley (wire) retainers. However they are still a great option for our patients if we determine that their teeth may benefit from this type.

  Pros and Cons of Wearing Clear Retainers

  Taking care of your teeth after you’ve completed your metal dental braces treatment, ceramic dental braces treatment, or Houston Invisalign treatment is key to wearing a healthier smile for longer. 

  Pros of Clear Retainers:

  • Clear plastic retainers are nearly invisible, so patients won’t feel as awkward or self-conscious and may be more inclined to wear their retainers as directed
  • These retainers are often more comfortable than Hawley retainers
  • Because the plastic is so lightweight, your speech won’t be as affected as it can be with traditional wire retainers

  Cons of Clear Retainers:

  • They cannot be readjusted or repaired; they can only be replaced
  • If exposed to excessive heat, clear retainers can warp in shape, therefore making it impossible to fit your teeth again
  • Over time, clear aligners can become discolored
  • If you don’t adhere to our recommendations for proper hygiene, then they can easily trap liquid or foods and result in cavities

  Our South Houston Dentist Can Determine If Clear Retainers Are Suitable For Your Particular Case

  If you or your child are finishing up with Houston braces treatment, then it’s time to discuss orthodontic retainers and which will work best for you. Please book an appointment with our South Houston Family Dentist so we can assess the progress on your teeth and determine what will best retain your new smile.

• Pros And Cons Of South Houston Invisalign

  Our South Houston family dentist offers a few different Houston braces treatments, including metal dental braces and ceramic dental braces, but in recent years patients have taken a greater interest in our Invisalign Clear Aligners–and for good reason! In this blog, we will break down the pros and cons of Invisalign so you are well-aware of the different options available at our Houston and South Houston offices.

  Pros Of Invisalign

  Invisalign has “pros” that outweigh the cons for most of our patients, such as:

  Increased Flexibility

  Unlike metal and ceramic Houston braces, which we bond to the teeth with a dental cement that can only be removed by a dentist, Invisalign Clear Aligners are designed to be removable by the patient, which makes them our most flexible method for correcting a malocclusion. With this flexibility, our patients should remove their aligner trays at mealtimes. Once you finish eating, thoroughly brush your teeth immediately after and then put your clear aligners back on.

  If you follow our wearing guidelines, then you may be able to forgo your Invisalign for the duration of a special/important occasion, such as a wedding, job interview, or prom.

  Subtle Houston Braces Treatment

  One of the many reasons our patients question whether they should get dental braces or not is that they are rather self-conscious about having metal or ceramic braces on display when they talk, eat, smile, or laugh.

  Invisalign Clear Aligners, on the other hand, are nearly transparent. This means that self-conscious teenagers and adults who would rather not draw attention to their teeth while they undergo treatment won’t have to worry about their appearance.

  Cons Of Invisalign Clear Aligner Treatment

  The greatest downside of Invisalign is that we prefer to recommend it to those with mild malocclusions for maximum effectiveness. If we do recommend Invisalign to you, these are the cons to keep in mind, though they may not be cons to you at all!

  Easily Lost Or Misplaced

  Invisalign Clear Aligners may be easy to lose since they are removable and transparent. If you find you may be forgetful sometimes, you may struggle to keep track of your aligners. However, we provide you with a case to store your aligners in so you can keep better track of them.

  Meticulous Hygiene

  Hygiene when wearing Houston braces is critical, but you need to pay extra attention when you wear Invisalign. If you wear any type of dental braces, it’s quite normal to get bits of food stuck in between your teeth, but when it comes to Invisalign, these food particles are notorious for impeding your aligners and making it obvious you have food stuck in your teeth. When food impedes your aligners, they won’t be able to do their job. Please be sure to thoroughly brush your teeth after each meal and floss every night.

  Get A Houston Braces Consultation At Centra Dental

  If you think Invisalign might be right for you, then please book an appointment with our South Houston dentist so we can evaluate your bite and determine the best treatment plan for you.

• Pros and Cons of Traditional Orthodontic Retainers After Houston Braces

  You’re approaching the end of your Houston braces treatment and whether you’re wearing Invisalign Clear Aligners, metal Houston braces, or ceramic dental braces, you are going to need to wear retainers after your treatment. You may wear them with reluctance, but you must wear your retainers in order to protect your investment in South Houston braces and keep your teeth straight. However, there are different types of orthodontic retainers that will meet different needs. In this blog post, we will discuss traditional retainers, otherwise known as Hawley retainers. 

  What Are Hawley Retainers

  Hawley retainers are also referred to as removable retainers or wire retainers. They are made of two parts and two components–the acrylic plastic and the metal wire components. The acrylic plastic is shaped to fit the roof up your mouth and behind your lower teeth. The wire component runs across your teeth. Together, these retainers hold your teeth in place while your teeth settle in the soft tissues of your mouth. How long you wear it will depend on your particular case, but our South Houston family dentist will recommend what works best for you.

  Pros and Cons of Wearing Hawley Retainers

  As with our Houston braces, there are pros and cons associated with each option.

  Pros of Removable Retainers

  • Hawley retainers can be adjusted in case you need a better fit or if your teeth need a slight touch up in their alignment. 
  • Much like the wire that is placed across your Houston braces may break sometimes, Hawley retainers may break on a rare occasion as well, but the good news is that they are easily reparable. 
  • Both rows of your teeth will touch naturally, which makes this option a more comfortable one. 

  Cons of Removable Wire Retainers

  • Because these retainers feel slightly bulky, your speech may sound off when wearing them.
  • The way the wire is laid across your teeth makes it rather noticeable when you speak
  • The wire may irritate your lips or cheeks when you first wear a removable retainer after your Houston braces treatment.

  Our South Houston Family Dentist Will Determine Whether Traditional Removable Retainers Are Suitable For You

  As you near the end of your Houston braces treatment, our South Houston family dentist will take impressions of your teeth so our lab can make your retainers. If we determine that Hawley retainers will work best for you, we will provide you with wearing guidelines. Please book an appointment with us for your next dental check-up so we can make the appropriate recommendation.

• Reasons to Consider Getting Houston Braces

  South Houston Dentists rely on time-tested dental interventions such as South Houston Braces to correct common problems with teeth spacing issues (crowded teeth or close existing gaps) and jaw and teeth alignment issues (overbite and underbite). Aside from correcting functional dental issues, South Houston Metal Dental Braces can also be used to aesthetically improve your smile. In this article, our South Houston family dentist will discuss in depth the different dental issues your South Houston braces can address.

  How Traditional South Houston Braces Work

  South Houston metal braces work by moving your teeth gradually as a result of force and pressure. The constant force and pressure over time slowly moves your teeth to its intended position. Scheduled adjustments are made by your South Houston dentist to direct and calibrate these forces to attain your desired smile.

  Individual brackets are installed on your teeth that will serve as anchor points. These anchor points are attached to an arch wire using ligature elastics that resemble rubber bands. If you are familiar with the look of a traditional South Houston metal braces, the arch wires are the most prominent part of your metal braces and span all lower or upper teeth.

  Patients who prefer dental appliances that are less noticeable may opt for South Houston ceramic braces. Ceramic braces use brackets that have the same shade as your tooth and arches that are thin and transparent. You can also avail of South Houston Invisalign, a retainer-type aligner that you can take off when eating, taking pictures, or attending events. Invisalign is perfect for minor teeth issue correction.

  Dental Issues Your South Houston Braces Can Correct

  As mentioned above, there are a multitude of dental issues that can be corrected by using South Houston braces. Your South Houston dentist recommend the use of dental braces for the following

  Crooked, Crowded, or Gapped Tooth – South Houston braces can help straighten crooked or crowded teeth as well as close excessive gaps in between teeth.

  Bite Issues – With the help of dental braces, your South Houston family dentist can correct teeth alignment issues that result in either an overbite or an underbite.

  Jaw Problems – South Houston metal braces can also address problems stemming from jaw alignment such as overjet (upper front teeth protrude outward) also referred to as “buck teeth” and crossbite (upper teeth fit inside of lower teeth when mouth is closed).

  Speech difficulties – In severe cases, dental problems can affect speech. South Houston dental braces can be used to restore ease of enunciating and proper flow of speech.

  Work with Your Top-Rated South Houston Dentist to Get the Smile You Deserve

  Centra Dental believes that everyone deserves to have a smile that they are proud of. A renewed and restored self-confidence is one of the most notable benefits of working with a top-rated dentist such as Centra Dental. Our helpful and caring staff will ensure your next visit is pleasant and stress-free. Call us now and schedule a consultation. 

• Retainers After Houston Braces - Different Types and Wearing Guidelines

  We understand the excitement our South Houston patients feel when they finally get their Houston braces off, and we also understand the mild disappointment they may feel when they are told toward the end of their treatment that they need to wear a retainer. However, a retainer is much more pleasant than dental braces. 

  Different Types of Orthodontic Retainers

  There are 3 kinds of orthodontic retainers and which we recommend you wear depends on your particular circumstances. Here is how they differ.

  Bonded Retainer

  A bonded retainer is exactly what it sounds like. Bonded retainers are also called permanent retainers because, like dental braces, they are cemented to the teeth with dental-grade cement. Except, rather than being glued on the front of your teeth, they are bonded behind the teeth. Although most of our patients wear them indefinitely, we may also remove them after time has passed if they are causing excessive irritation or plaque build-up. 

  We often recommend bonded retainers to younger patients who may struggle to be responsible with their retainer or if we think the teeth will shift back to their crooked position too quickly and easily.

  Hawley Retainer

  More common is the Hawley retainer. This type of retainer is removable and is also called a wire retainer. It’s made up of two parts, each made of plastic or acrylic, which the patient can pick the color for. The top portion is molded to the shape of the roof of your mouth and the bottom portion is molded to the back of your lower teeth. Thin, yet strong wire runs is attached to both parts. The upper retainer has a wire that runs across the front of your teeth, whereas the bottom retainer has a wire that hooks on top and around the teeth to keep them from shifting.

  Transparent Retainer

  The last type of retainer is a transparent one. It is made similar to Invisalign in that it is removable and made of thin plastic, but this type is molded perfectly to the new alignment of the patient’s teeth. 

  How to Wear Different Retainers After Houston Braces

  Now, for how long should our South Houston patients wear Hawley retainers and transparent retainers?

  We often recommend wearing them at all times, except at mealtimes, for 6 months to a year. This is because the teeth will have a natural habit of trying to shift to the position they were in prior to braces if there is no longer anything holding them in place. Being diligent in wearing retainers right after will ensure that the teeth settle into the soft tissues in the mouth and their new position along the jaw. This keeps them from becoming easily misaligned again.

  Centra Dental Will Ensure Your Teeth Remain Straight After Houston Braces

  If you are nearing the end of your braces treatment, then please book an appointment with us so that we can determine the state of your teeth and recommend the appropriate retainers for your needs. We are passionate about embracing your smile and can’t wait for you to embrace yours.

• South Houston Braces-friendly Diet: What You Can and Can't Eat

  Embarking on a journey with South Houston braces is an investment in your oral health and the beauty of your smile. At Centra Dental, your go-to provider for general and family dentistry in Southwest Houston, we understand the importance of maintaining a braces-friendly diet to ensure the success of your orthodontic treatment. Let's explore what you can and can't eat while undergoing South Houston dental braces treatment, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience on your braces journey.

• South Houston Invisalign Do's And Don't's

  At Centra Dental in Houston and South Houston, we offer various types of dental braces at an affordable price, including Invisalign. Though sometimes mistaken as a less-effective way to straighten your teeth, Invisalign Clear Aligners are actually very successful at correcting the alignment of your bite, so long as you follow our recommendations for the best way to take care of your teeth while undergoing Invisalign treatment. In this article, our South Houston family dentist will discuss a couple do’s and don’t’s that will impact how well Invisalign works for you.

  What To Do When Wearing Invisalign Clear Aligners From Our South Houston Braces Dentist

  Here are things you should do if you are a South Houston Invisalign patient:

  Wear Your Invisalign For At Least 20 Hours A Day

  Compared to our other Houston braces, Invisalign is a more delicate and subtle method of shifting the teeth, which means it can take a little longer in some cases. We recommend wearing your Clear Aligners for 20-22 hours a day to provide as much time for your aligner trays to do their job. 

  Keep Track Of Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

  Because Invisalign isn’t glued to your teeth like ceramic Houston braces and metal dental braces, some patients run the risk of losing their aligners. If you lose them, you won’t wear them for as long as you need to in order to straighten your teeth. When you begin Invisalign treatment, be sure to store your Clear Aligners in your Invisalign case each time you remove them for meals and when you brush your teeth. Not only does this prevent you from losing them, but this also keeps them safe from damage and prevents excessive dirtiness. 

  What Not To Do As A South Houston Invisalign Patient

  Avoid the following when undergoing Houston Invisalign:

  Skip Cleaning Your Invisalign Clear Aligners

  Just because you don’t have to wear your aligners 24/7 does not mean you should forgo good dental braces hygiene. When you finish eating and put your aligners back on, they will collect the plaque and bacteria in your mouth. It’s imperative that you clean them by gently brushing them with a soft-bristled toothbrush in the morning and before bed. This will keep your aligners from getting smelly and will protect your mouth from cavities. 

  Switch To Your Next Set Of Aligners If You Lose Your Current Pair

  Sometimes mistakes happen and our Houston Invisalign patients lose a set of aligners. Do not jump to the next set if you’ve lost your current set because the aligners won’t fit properly, which means they won’t move your teeth the way they are supposed to. Instead, call our Houston braces dentists so we can determine the best course of action.

  Think You Need Houston Braces? Visit Our South Houston Dentist 

  If you think it might be time to get dental braces, please book an appointment for a Houston braces consultation so we can determine if Invisalign is right for you and proceed with a treatment plan. We will provide you with further education on how to get the most out of your Invisalign Clear Aligners.