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Houston Braces

  • Houston Invisalign vs. Metal Braces: Which Is Right for You?

    Our Houston family dentist will help you choose between Invisalign or traditional metal braces.

    Choosing the right orthodontic treatment can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. At Centra Dental, our goal is to make your decision as easy and informed as possible. Whether you’re considering traditional metal braces or modern Houston Invisalign, our caring team will walk with you every step of the way. We understand that a straighter smile isn’t just about appearance—it’s about function, comfort, and confidence, too.

    From Houston braces and Invisalign to general services like cleanings, fillings, and crowns, our warm and knowledgeable staff will help make your visit comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding. If you’re unsure which type of orthodontic treatment suits you best, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and goals.

  • Houston Metal Braces For Children

    Approximately 4 million Americans wear braces at any given time in order to fix what is classified as a malocclusion. A malocclusion is what we call a “bad bite”, such as crowded teeth, underbites, and overbites. Metal dental braces are an effective and affordable method our dentists in Houston and South Houston use to correct a malocclusion, especially for younger children who prefer to take advantage of early Houston braces treatment. In this article, we will discuss how metal dental braces work so you and your child know what to expect.

    What Are Metal Braces Made Of?

    Our metal Houston braces feature 3 key components:

    • Metal brackets, which are glued to the front of the teeth with a semipermanent dental cement
    • Archwire, which is placed across the brackets
    • O-rings, which keep the archwire attached to the metal brackets

    How Houston Braces Straighten Your Child’s Teeth

    Our Houston and South Houston family dentists offer metal braces that are thinner (and therefore far lighter in weight) than most other metal braces available. 

    All types of Houston braces that we offer do the same job in principle: they apply pressure to the teeth, which gradually moves them to their desired position. When it comes to metal dental braces, our South Houston braces dentist will tighten the archwire on a regular basis. Tightening the archwire in a certain way helps push the teeth in the direction we intend for them to go, thanks to the help of our state-of-the-art 3D modeling software.

    In some cases, especially if you have an overbite or an underbite, we will incorporate rubber bands into your Houston braces treatment.

    Is Your Child Ready For Houston Braces? Centra Dental Is Your Go-To Braces Expert!

    Whether you are in Houston or South Houston, our family dentists are here for your dental braces needs. We offer affordable dental braces for as low as $99/month and our caring staff and advanced technology ensure that you have the best possible experience every time you visit us. If you think your child might benefit from metal dental braces, then please book an appointment with us at one of our offices so we can begin with a braces consultation. We look forward to embracing your smile!

  • How a Houston Dentist Can Spot Early Signs of Tooth Decay

    A regular appointment with your Houston dentist can help catch early signs of tooth decay.

    You might think tooth decay is obvious—but the truth is, it often starts quietly, without pain or noticeable damage. By the time symptoms appear, you could already need more extensive treatment. Fortunately, your trusted Houston dentist at Centra Dental is trained to spot these early signs—so keep reading to learn how we protect your smile before issues begin.

  • How a Houston Dentist Helps with Gum Health

    Keep your gums healthy with a regular visit to your Houston dentist.

    Bleeding gums, bad breath, or gum sensitivity may seem minor at first; but these are often early signs of gum disease that can quickly escalate. Fortunately, a dedicated Houston dentist can catch these issues early, protect your overall health, and restore your confident smile. Keep reading to see how your gums benefit from routine dental care and why choosing the right Houston TX family dentist makes all the difference.

  • How Getting Houston Braces Will Affect Your Lifestyle

    A girl with Houston braces laughing with her friend

    When it comes to achieving a beautiful, healthy smile, braces are a tried-and-true solution. While the journey to straight teeth can bring a few challenges, the end result is worth it. At Centra Dental, we embrace smiles by making the Houston braces experience as comfortable and rewarding as possible. Here’s a balanced look at how braces may impact your lifestyle and all the benefits they bring.

    The Minor Adjustments

    Houston braces come with a learning curve as your mouth adjusts to its new hardware. Here are a few common concerns and how to handle them:

    Dietary Changes: With Houston braces, certain foods need to be avoided, such as sticky candies, hard nuts, or crunchy chips, to prevent damage to the brackets and wires. However, there’s still a wide variety of braces-friendly foods like yogurt, pasta, and soft fruits to enjoy.

    Oral Hygiene Routine: Keeping your teeth clean with braces requires extra effort. Flossing takes a little more time, and brushing around brackets may feel tedious at first. But using tools like interdental brushes and water flossers can make the process easier and more effective.

    Temporary Discomfort: As your teeth shift, some mild soreness or tightness is normal, especially after adjustments. Over-the-counter pain relievers and orthodontic wax can help ease these minor discomforts.

    Speech Adjustments: Initially, you might notice slight changes in your speech as your tongue gets used to the braces. This typically resolves within a few days, and soon you’ll be speaking as confidently as ever.

    The Positives Far Outweigh the Negatives

    While there are temporary inconveniences, the benefits of Houston braces are long-lasting and life-changing. Here’s what makes the journey worthwhile:

    A Healthier Smile: Straighter teeth are easier to clean, reducing your risk of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Braces help align your teeth and jaw, improving overall function and health.

    Boosted Confidence: One of the most rewarding outcomes of Houston braces is the self-confidence that comes with a beautiful smile. Whether it’s for a job interview, social event, or casual photos with friends, your radiant smile will help you shine.

    Improved Comfort: Misaligned teeth can cause discomfort, jaw pain, and even headaches. Braces correct these issues, resulting in better comfort and fewer dental concerns in the future.

    Enhanced Appearance: Braces can significantly improve your facial symmetry, giving your smile and jawline a more balanced and appealing look.

    A Lifelong Investment: The benefits of Houston braces extend far beyond aesthetics. By addressing alignment issues now, you’re protecting your dental health for decades to come.

    Why Choose Centra Dental?

    At Centra Dental, our Houston dentist makes getting braces a positive experience. Our clean and modern facility ensures comfort for every patient, and our dedicated Houston family dentist is here to guide you through the process. We embrace smiles by providing personalized orthodontic care that meets your unique needs.

    Transforming your smile with braces might bring some changes to your routine, but the benefits are more than worth it. Schedule a consultation with our Houston dentist today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier smile!

  • How Good Oral Health Supports Academic Success in Kids

    Boost academic performance with regular visits to your Houston dentist.

    When kids struggle with tooth pain, sensitivity, or untreated dental issues, it doesn’t just affect their smiles—it can quietly interfere with focus, attendance, and confidence at school. The solution starts with proactive dental care that keeps little mouths healthy and minds ready to learn. Keep reading to discover how partnering with a trusted Houston dentist can set your child up for success in the classroom and beyond.

  • How Houston Braces Help Prevent Long-Term Dental Problems

    Prevent long-term dental problems with Houston braces.

    At Centra Dental, we believe your smile deserves more than just cosmetic attention—it deserves long-term care that protects your health for years to come. Located in Southwest Houston, our experienced and compassionate team is proud to offer a full range of dental services, from teeth cleanings to Houston Braces and Houston Invisalign. As a trusted Houston Family Dentist, we’re committed to creating treatment plans that don’t just improve your smile today—they help prevent major dental issues tomorrow.

     

    Why Alignment Matters for Dental Health

    Many people view Houston Braces as a way to improve appearance—and while that’s certainly true, the benefits go far beyond a straighter smile. Proper tooth alignment plays a major role in your overall oral health. When your teeth are crooked, crowded, or misaligned, it becomes harder to clean them properly, which can lead to an increased risk of plaque buildup, cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay.

    By aligning your teeth and correcting bite issues, braces make brushing and flossing easier and more effective. This not only improves daily hygiene but also reduces your risk of more serious dental problems in the future.

     

    Preventing Tooth Wear and Damage with Houston Braces

    When your bite is off—whether due to an overbite, underbite, or crossbite—certain teeth may experience more pressure than others. Over time, this uneven wear can lead to cracked or chipped teeth, jaw strain, and even tooth loss. Houston Braces help distribute bite pressure evenly across your teeth, reducing unnecessary stress and preserving your natural tooth structure.

    At Centra Dental, we monitor bite alignment closely and tailor treatment to each individual’s needs. With the right orthodontic care, we help protect your smile from long-term wear and damage.

     

    Reducing the Risk of Gum Disease

    Misaligned teeth can cause gum tissue to become irritated or inflamed, especially in cases of overcrowding. This can make it easier for bacteria to hide and harder to properly clean the gum line. Left untreated, these issues can lead to gingivitis or even advanced periodontal disease, which threatens both your teeth and your overall health.

    By straightening the teeth and creating better spacing, Houston Braces allow for healthier gums and easier maintenance. At Centra Dental, our knowledgeable team combines orthodontic care with thorough cleanings and regular exams to ensure your gums stay healthy throughout treatment.

     

    Supporting Better Jaw Function

    Jaw misalignment isn’t just uncomfortable—it can contribute to chronic issues like TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder), headaches, and muscle strain. Orthodontic treatment can correct these alignment problems and restore proper jaw function, reducing pain and preventing long-term joint complications.

    Whether you’re considering Houston Braces or more discreet options like Houston Invisalign, our skilled providers at Centra Dental will assess your bite and recommend a solution tailored to your comfort and lifestyle.

     

    Houston Braces as a Preventive Investment

    Many dental problems that arise later in life—such as advanced tooth decay, gum disease, or jaw deterioration—can be traced back to orthodontic issues that weren’t addressed early. By investing in Houston Braces or Houston Invisalign, you're not just improving your current smile—you’re making a proactive choice to protect your oral health long-term.

    As a dedicated Houston Family Dentist, Centra Dental is proud to offer preventive care that evolves with your needs. From children to adults, our patients benefit from personalized treatment plans and a compassionate, knowledgeable team every step of the way.

     

    Why Families Trust Centra Dental for Long-Term Orthodontic Health

    Choosing Centra Dental means choosing a dental team that prioritizes both comfort and care. Our Southwest Houston clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, and our friendly team ensures that every visit is as stress-free as possible. Whether you’re a teen starting orthodontic care or an adult exploring Houston Invisalign, we make the process smooth, effective, and built to last. Book an appointment today to start protecting your smile for years to come.

  • How Houston Braces Impact Speech and Chewing

    Understand how Houston braces can affect speech and chewing in the short term.

    Speech slurs and chewing difficulties can come as an unexpected surprise after getting braces. But the truth is, these challenges are often temporary and manageable. Understanding how Houston braces affect everyday functions can help you or your child adjust quickly and stay motivated throughout the treatment journey. Read on to learn what to expect and how Centra Dental supports you every step of the way.

  • How Houston Braces Improve More Than Just Your Smile

    Learn about the benefits of Houston braces beyond perfect smiles.

    A straight, beautiful smile is often the first thing people notice, but did you know that Houston braces offer more than just cosmetic benefits? Beyond enhancing your confidence, properly aligned teeth can significantly improve oral health, digestion, and even speech. At Centra Dental, our Houston dentist team aims to provide high-quality dental care in a comfortable environment, helping our patients achieve healthier, happier smiles.

    If you’re considering Houston braces, here’s why they’re about more than just looks—they can benefit your overall well-being in ways you may not have considered.

  • How Houston Invisalign Fits Seamlessly into a Busy Lifestyle

    Asian woman holds a Houston Invisalign and smiles.

    Balancing work, family, and personal care often leaves little time for traditional orthodontic visits. Fortunately, Houston Invisalign makes achieving a straighter smile simple, convenient, and adaptable to any schedule. Keep reading to learn how your trusted Houston family dentist at Centra Dental helps patients transform their smiles; without disrupting their daily routines.

  • How Houston Invisalign Works: The Science Behind Clear Aligners

    Young woman smiles while holding her Houston Invisalign clear aligners.

    Here at Central Dental, we believe that everyone deserves a confident smile. If you are looking for a dental solution that is discreet to improve your smile then Houston Invisalign may be the right product for you. Invisalign has revolutionized Houston family orthodontic treatment by offering an alternative to traditional Houston braces that is both convenient and effective. As a popular choice for Houston dentists, Invisalign utilizes clear aligners to gradually straighten teeth. In this article, our Houston family dentist delves into the science behind Invisalign, how it works, and its advantages over traditional Houston metal braces.

    How Houston Invisalign Works to Straighten Your Teeth

    Houston Invisalign employs advanced technology to straighten your teeth through a series of custom-made, removable clear aligners. The process typically involves the following steps that will be conducted by your trusted Houston family dentist:

    a) Digital Scanning: Your experienced Houston dentist will use a specialized scanner to create a 3D digital model of your teeth. This precise digital impression serves as the basis for the creation of your personalized treatment plan.

    b) Custom Aligners: Based on the treatment plan, a series of custom Houston Invisalign aligners are created. Each set of aligners is worn for approximately two weeks, gradually shifting the teeth into the desired position. Patients typically require multiple sets of aligners throughout the treatment duration.

    c) Progress Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your Houston family dentist are scheduled to monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments. New sets of Houston Invisalign aligners are provided as the treatment progresses, ensuring a continuous shift towards your desired teeth position.

    Advantages of Houston Invisalign Clear Aligners Over Traditional Metal Braces

    Houston Invisalign offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for orthodontic treatment:

    a) Aesthetics: Houston Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible compared to traditional Houston metal braces, allowing patients to straighten their teeth discreetly. This is particularly appealing to individuals who prefer a more natural appearance during treatment.

    b) Removability: Unlike Houston traditional braces, Invisalign aligners are removable. This feature allows for easy maintenance of oral hygiene, as the aligners can be taken out for brushing, flossing, and eating. It also means fewer dietary restrictions compared to traditional Houston metal braces.

    c) Enhanced Comfort: Houston Invisalign aligners are made of smooth, BPA-free plastic, significantly reducing the chances of mouth irritation and discomfort commonly associated with traditional metal braces.

    Consult a Top-Rated Dentist Now to Know If Houston Invisalign Clear Aligners Is for You

    Everyone deserves to have a smile they are proud to wear. Consult our top-rated Houston dentist should you decide to improve the quality of your smile. With our family-friendly facility that streams family-friendly movies, toys for kids, and free WIFI, we can ensure that you and your family’s visit will be pleasant and stress-free. Schedule a visit with our Houston family dentist to discuss if Houston Invisalign is a perfect fit for you.

  • How Long Do You Need to Have Houston Braces?

    How long do you need Houston braces?

    When considering Houston braces, one of the most common questions patients ask is, "How long will I need to wear them?" The duration varies depending on several factors, including the type of orthodontic issue being corrected, the method of treatment, and the individual’s age and dental health. At Centra Dental, our top-rated dentists are dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring that each patient receives the best dental experience in a clean and safe facility.

    The Average Duration of Houston Braces

    On average, most patients wear braces for about 18 to 24 months. However, this timeline can differ based on the complexity of the case. For instance, minor alignment issues might be corrected in as little as six months, while more severe cases could require up to three years of treatment. During your initial consultation at Centra Dental, our experienced Houston family dentist will assess your specific needs and provide a more accurate estimate of your treatment duration.

    Factors Influencing Houston Braces Duration

    Several factors determine how long you will need to wear braces:

    Age: Younger patients often experience faster results because their jaws and teeth are still developing, making them more responsive to treatment. However, adults can also achieve excellent results with Houston braces, though the process might take a bit longer due to the maturity of their bones.

    Type of Misalignment: The severity of the dental issue plays a significant role in determining the length of treatment. For example, correcting a simple gap between teeth typically takes less time than treating complex bite issues or severe crowding.

    Type of Braces: The type of braces you choose can also impact the duration. Traditional metal braces are highly effective for a wide range of issues, while clear aligners like Invisalign might be a quicker option for less complex cases. Our Centra Dental team will help you choose the best option based on your needs and lifestyle.

    Patient Compliance: Following your orthodontist's instructions is crucial to ensuring timely progress. Regularly attending appointments, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding foods that could damage the braces all contribute to a smoother and quicker treatment process.

    The Importance of Regular Check-Ups

    Throughout your braces journey, regular check-ups at Centra Dental are essential. These visits allow our Houston dentist to monitor your progress, make necessary adjustments, and ensure that your teeth are moving as planned. Skipping appointments can delay your treatment, so it’s important to stay committed to the schedule provided by your Houston dentist.

    Life After Braces: Retainers

    Once your braces are removed, the next phase of treatment involves wearing a retainer. Retainers are crucial for maintaining the new position of your teeth and preventing them from shifting back to their original state. The duration for wearing a retainer varies but is typically recommended for several months to a few years, with some patients advised to wear them at night indefinitely.

    Experience the Best Dental Care at Centra Dental

    At Centra Dental, we understand that the thought of wearing Houston braces can be daunting, but we strive to make the process as comfortable and efficient as possible. Our clean and safe facility, combined with our team of top-rated dentists, ensures that you and your family receive the highest standard of care. Whether it’s your first time getting braces or you’re looking for orthodontic care for your children, Centra Dental is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for the entire family. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward a brighter smile!

  • How Long Does It Take to Get Houston Braces?

    Here’s what you need to know about the length of your Houston braces treatment.

    At Centra Dental, we believe that every patient deserves a healthy, confident smile. As a trusted Houston family dentist, we offer a variety of orthodontic treatments, including Houston braces, to help you achieve straighter teeth. One of the most common questions patients ask us is: “How long does it take to get braces?” The answer depends on several factors, including the type of braces you choose, the complexity of your case, and how well you follow your treatment plan. Let’s break down the timeline so you can know what to expect on your journey to a perfect smile.

  • How Long Will You Need to Use Your Houston Invisalign?

    Wondering how long a Houston Invisalign treatment will take? Read on!

    If you’re considering Houston Invisalign to straighten your teeth, one of the most common questions you may have is how long treatment will take. At Centra Dental, we understand that every patient’s smile is unique, and the duration of Invisalign treatment can vary based on your specific needs. As a trusted Houston family dentist, we specialize in making your orthodontic journey smooth, efficient, and stress-free, helping you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

  • How Metal Houston Braces Work

    Approximately 4 million Americans wear braces at any given time due to malocclusions. A malocclusion is what we refer to as a “bad bite” or an “unideal bite”. Although we offer ceramic dental braces and even Invisalign in addition to metal Houston braces, we like to recommend metal dental braces for a variety of cases, simply because they are the strongest and are effective on virtually all malocclusions. In this article, our South Houston dentist will explain how metal dental braces work to correct malocclusions. 

    What Are Metal Braces Made Of

    In order to understand how metal dental braces work, we first have to explain how they are designed. At their most basic level, metal Houston braces are made up of 3 components.

    • Metal brackets, which are glued to the front of the teeth utilizing dental cement.
    • Archwire, which is laid across the brackets.
    • O-rings, which help attach the archwire to the brackets and keep everything in place.

    How Metal Houston Braces Straighten Your Teeth

    Whether you’re an adult in need of dental braces or are doing some research because your child may need braces soon, metal braces are a great method to correct a bad bite that any of our South Houston family dentist patients may have, regardless of their age. Today, metal braces are thinner and lighter in weight, which creates a far more pleasant experience.

    The way metal dental braces correct the alignment of your teeth lies in how all three components work together. With the o-rings connecting both the metal brackets and the archwire, our South Houston braces dentist will tighten the archwire in different ways that will place specific amounts of pressure on your teeth and jaw at any given time. This guides your teeth to the proper alignment, thanks to the help of our 3D modeling software. Every so often, you will come back to our Houston dentist office so we can re-tighten the archwire, continuously guiding your teeth until we have helped you achieve a straight smile.

    Ready For Metal Houston Braces? Visit Our South Houston Dentist Office

    Now that you know more about metal dental braces, if you think they’re suitable for you please book an appointment so we can begin with our braces consultation.

  • How Old Does My Child Need to be in Order to Get Houston Braces

    Many of our Houston braces patients are children and young teenagers. Dental braces are essential for good dental health and a healthy bite, otherwise, a variety of problems may occur if you don’t get braces. Prior to treatment, parents often ask our South Houston family dentist what age their child needs to be beforehand. Here is what we advise. 

    Don’t Wait Until Adulthood to Get Houston Braces

    Although it is perfectly acceptable to undergo dental braces treatment as an adult, treatment often lasts longer than it does in children. This is because children’s mouths and heads are still growing, so their teeth are more moldable. Most Houston braces treatments take place between ages 8 and 14 because, by this age, kids should have lost most or all of their baby teeth, but depending on the severity of their malocclusion, we may want to start earlier and set a timeline for you. For example, if their bite is really severe and treatment will take 3 years, you may wish to start at age 10 so that they can be done with their dental braces treatment by age 13 or 14. 

    Get an Early Houston Braces Evaluation

    In many cases, especially if we have been treating you and your child for years and have been able to see how your child’s teeth develop, we might recommend your child comes in for an orthodontic evaluation when they’re around 7 years old. Our trained family dentists will be able to draw conclusions on how the teeth and jaw will develop and if/how braces treatment will help. We will also be able to determine whether interceptive treatment will be necessary, in the event that your child’s malocclusion is one that will likely worsen over time. This involves using orthodontic appliances as an early treatment. In some cases, there won’t be a need for Houston braces once the interceptive treatment has concluded. 

    Houston Braces For Kids at Centra Dental in South Houston

    Dental braces today are much more subtle and comfortable than they used to be, so regardless of which age your child begins treatment, we will determine the type of braces that work best for them to achieve a healthy, straight, and beautiful smile. If you think it might be time for your child to get braces, please book an appointment so we can begin with our consultation.

  • How Old Kids Need To Be Before They Get Houston Braces: Is Earlier Treatment Possible and Recommended?

    Although we get many adult patients who seek Houston braces treatment, particularly with Invisalign Clear Aligners, our South Houston family dentist sees children more often. When families come in for their semiannual teeth cleaning, parents often ask us when their kid might be ready for braces, if early treatment is possible, and/or how much longer they should wait to avoid needing another alignment treatment in the future. This is what our South Houston family dentists recommend.

    Early Houston Braces Treatment Is Good; A Second Treatment Is Rarely Necessary

    Before we get into anything else, we want to address the common concern that many patients have: if their kid gets braces too young, won’t they need to get them straightened again in the future? 

    Getting braces early, when your child is young, is a great idea because they're still growing, so their jaws are too. This makes their teeth easily moveable, which may help shorten the duration of their treatment. Some patients, however, require even earlier treatment known as an interceptive treatment. This type of treatment involves using orthodontic appliances to complete early treatment if a patient’s malocclusion is one that can worsen the longer it is left untreated. This may take place as a two-part treatment, but it’s possible for these cases to be resolved at once and they won’t need Houston braces again. On the other hand, the teeth will need to be corrected again if the patient wasn't responsible when it came to wearing their orthodontic retainers, and this is regardless of age.

    The Youngest Age At Which Houston Braces Treatment Can Begin

    Dental braces treatment usually takes place between the ages of 8 and 14 because by then, children have lost all or most of their baby teeth. That said, when your child should get dental braces also depends on how severe their malocclusion is and, consequently, which type of treatment they’ll need (Invisalign, metal dental braces, ceramic Houston braces). Some children may need Houston braces for longer due to a really bad bite, so we might recommend they start closer to 8. Other children may not have as bad a case, so they can wait a bit before getting braces and by then, it’s up to their personal preference.

    Houston Braces For Kids at Centra Dental in South Houston

    Today’s dental braces are much lighter in weight and more subtle than they used to be. With the many types of Houston braces we offer, we’ll find the method that works best for your child to have healthy, straight teeth. If you’re considering Houston braces treatment for your child, please book an appointment with us so we can start with an orthodontic evaluation. This will give our trained dentists, who regularly further their education, the opportunity to determine how your child's teeth and jaw will develop, and how dental braces will help. 

  • How Our South Houston Invisalign Patients Can Ensure Effective Treatment

    Invisalign Clear Aligners have certainly risen in popularity for our teenaged patients, as well as our adult patients since it initially emerged in the early 2000’s. Although metal dental braces are effective on all types of malocclusions–minor or severe, that isn’t to say that clear aligners are not just as effective for a minor malocclusion, which is the technical term we use to refer to a “bad bite”. Here is what our South Houston family dentists recommend in order for our Invisalign patients to get the most out of their treatment.

    Remove Your Clear Aligners When It’s Time to Eat

    Invisalign is known as a more 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 that we fuse to the teeth with a dental cement. Because clear aligners are made of plastic, you should not chew with them.

    However, just because you don’t chew with them does not mean you can eat whatever you want. On the contrary, each time a patient receives a new set of clear aligners, their teeth feel more tender, so it is imperative to avoid crunchy and chewy foods. This is especially crucial within the first 48 hours of wearing new aligners.

    Our South Houston Dentist Patients Need to be Responsible

    Invisalign must be worn for 20-22 hours a day, which includes the time you spend sleeping overnight. This helps ensure that your teeth are constantly being shifted into the necessary position to create a straight smile. Now, if you wear them as directed and maintain exceptional dental hygiene, you may be able to wear them a little less by only skipping them on special occasions, such as a school dance or a wedding.

    What is exceptional hygiene? Essentially, you need to take care to brush your teeth after every meal and snack to ensure no food gets stuck in between your teeth and held in by the aligners. Additionally, flossing nightly is crucial, and more dental cleanings may be necessary.

    This all requires a lot of discipline, which is why some younger patients may instead wear metal or ceramic dental braces. In order to wear your Invisalign clear aligners as directed, you have to ensure you don’t lose them, misplace them, or become a little too comfortable to a point where you wear them less than the time our South Houston dentists recommend.

    Centra’s South Houston Family Dentists Want to Ensure Your Treatment Goes as Planned

    If you are planning to start Invisalign, or have recently begun treatment, please book a Houston braces appointment with us so we can examine your teeth and further explain a more detailed treatment plan. We want to ensure Invisalign gives you the straight, healthy smile you deserve.

  • How South Houston Invisalign Works

    Dental braces–such as metal Houston braces and ceramic Houston braces–are fairly common these days. Pre-teens, teenagers, and even adults wear them for an average of 1-2 years in order to get a healthier smile that they can show with pride. Invisalign is also gaining popularity, especially due to its subtlety, but it works slightly differently than our aforementioned dental braces. In this article, we will explain how South Houston Invisalign works.

    How Invisalign Houston Braces Work

    First and foremost, Invisalign is made up of plastic–unlike its metal and ceramic counterparts–but the general logic behind how Invisalign works is the same as our other Houston braces. Essentially, we are pressing a strong material against your teeth in order to apply pressure that will gradually move them to the correct alignment.

    Gathering Your Information

    When you come in for your South Houston braces consultation, we will discuss what we need from you in order to put you on Invisalign treatment. Some of the things we gather include:

    • X-rays
    • Photos of your teeth
    • Impressions

    These materials will aid us in designing the right treatment for you that addresses how your teeth should move over time. Next, we will send this to our dental lab so they can design your custom Invisalign Clear Aligner trays, which are unique to your bite and how it should change throughout the course of your treatment. 

    What You Can Expect For Your South Houston Invisalign Treatment

    When it comes to Invisalign trays, your clear aligner trays are all shaped slightly differently, and you will wear one set at a time for a few weeks, depending on your unique treatment plan. Once you finish wearing one set of clear aligners, you will come into our South Houston dentist office so we can assess the progress of your Invisalign treatment, and then we will give you your new set, which will help guide your teeth to the next phase in their alignment. 

    Considering Invisalign? Visit Our South Houston Dentists At Centra Dental!

    If you’re interested in wearing Invisalign as opposed to ceramic or metal Houston braces, then please book an appointment with our dentist. We will schedule a Houston braces consultation with you and discuss what your unique needs and preferences are, and then we will move forward with giving you a smile you’re eager to show off!

  • How Technology Is Transforming Modern Houston Dentist Practice

    Technology is transforming Houston dentist practice.

    Modern dentistry is no longer just about drills and fillings: it’s about precision, comfort, and innovation. Thanks to advanced dental technology, patients now experience faster, safer, and more personalized care than ever before. Keep reading to learn how your trusted Houston family dentist at Centra Dental uses cutting-edge tools to make every visit smooth, efficient, and stress-free.