As the year draws to an end, it’s time to make the most out of your dental insurance by booking an appointment with your Houston dentist today. Most dental insurance plans do not carry over to the next year, which means that you will lose all unused benefits. Centra Dental accepts dental insurance for a wide range of treatments so you can maintain excellent oral health. Learn more about why you should visit a dentist before the year ends.

Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Dental insurance companies have an annual maximum, which is the most they will pay for your dental services within one calendar year. Your unused benefits do not roll over to the next year, which means that if you haven't reached your maximum, you'll miss out on the benefits you deserve. You're paying premiums every month, whether you use your plan or not. To get the most out of what you're paying, it's wise to use the insurance benefits before they reset.

Be More Cost-Effective

Dental treatments can cost a significant amount of money, especially for the more complicated procedures. If you’re already paying your premiums, then it makes sense to reap the benefits of your plan instead of paying out-of-pocket expenses. In this day and age where the cost of living continues to increase, it’s wiser to save your money when you can. This way, you can use the budget for other necessities of your family.

Address Your Dental Issues

The most important thing to consider is your health. If you have existing dental issues, then it’s time to book a visit with your Houston dentist. Dental insurance covers treatments, such as fillings, root canals, crowns, and other vital procedures. By addressing your dental concerns as soon as possible, you’re keeping your health in check. You’re also preventing more serious, more expensive dental issues, so it’s time to check off that long-overdue trip to your Houston family dentist.

Take Care of Your Oral Health

Most dental insurance plans also cover preventive treatments, such as teeth cleaning and checkups. Prevention is better than cure when it comes to your health. Use your dental insurance to prevent cavities and plaque that lead to tooth decay. Centra Dental’s top-rated Houston dentists will make sure your oral health is at its best while you maximize your dental benefits.

Schedule a Visit With Your Houston Dentist Today!

Using your dental insurance before the year ends ensures optimum oral health and avoids out-of-pocket expenses. Centra Dental provides all vital services, including Houston braces, so you can achieve your healthiest smile. We have a clean and safe facility where hygiene is our priority. We strive to make your dental experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible, which is why we offer a variety of amenities to keep you relaxed. Don’t wait until the new year for a needed dental treatment. Schedule a visit with Centra Dental today!

Embarking on the journey to a straighter and healthier smile with South Houston braces is an exciting decision that comes with a few adjustments. At Centra Dental, your go-to destination for general and family dentistry in Southwest Houston, we understand that the first month with braces can be a period of adaptation. Let's delve into what you can expect during this crucial initial phase, ensuring your experience is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

Initial Consultation and Placement with Your South Houston Dentist

The journey begins with your initial consultation at Centra Dental. Our experienced and caring staff, specializing in South Houston braces, will conduct a thorough examination, capturing images and impressions to create a personalized treatment plan. Once your braces are ready, the placement appointment takes place. This is when the braces are affixed to your teeth using a special adhesive. While the process is generally painless, you may experience slight discomfort or pressure during this phase.

Adjusting to Discomfort from Your South Houston Braces

During the first week with South Houston braces, it's common to experience some discomfort or soreness. This is entirely normal as your teeth start adjusting to the new pressure applied by the braces. Over-the-counter pain relievers and eating softer foods can help alleviate any initial discomfort. Your helpful Centra Dental team is always available to provide guidance and support during this period.

South Houston Dentist Suggests Dietary Adjustments and Oral Hygiene

Adapting your diet is a key aspect of the first month with your South Houston braces. It's advisable to avoid sticky and hard foods that can potentially damage the braces or prolong the treatment process. Opt for softer options and cut food into smaller, more manageable pieces. Additionally, maintaining meticulous oral hygiene is crucial. Regular brushing and flossing become even more important to prevent plaque buildup around the braces.

Follow-up Appointments and Adjustments with Your South Houston Dentist

Regular follow-up appointments with your South Houston dentist at Centra Dental are scheduled throughout your orthodontic journey. These appointments are essential for adjustments, ensuring your braces continue to align your teeth effectively. Adjustments may cause temporary discomfort, but they are a positive sign that your treatment is progressing as planned.

Wear the Smile You Deserve with Centra Dental

At Centra Dental, our helpful and caring staff is committed to making your experience with South Houston braces pleasant and stress-free. With personalized attention and a focus on your comfort, we ensure that your journey to a straighter smile is as rewarding as the result itself. Book your appointment with us today and let us guide you through the transformative process of achieving a confident and radiant smile.

The holidays are a time for traveling to visit family and friends. But when you’re away from your dentist, emergencies can arise with your Houston braces. It’s important to know what to do in these situations to minimize discomfort and damage to your Houston braces or Invisalign. Our top-rated dentists at Centra Dental have some tips to get you ready for the holiday season.

Pack a Braces Care Kit

When traveling for the holidays, it’s essential to pack a kit with everything you need for braces care. Make sure to bring the basics, including your toothbrush, dental floss, and fluoride toothpaste. Because Houston braces need special care, you may want to bring specific tools like interdental brushes or a water flosser. If you have Houston Invisalign, bring your case. 

Bring Wax for Accidents

If you wear metal braces, accidents can happen, such as damaging your brackets and wires. You’re now left with sharp points that can injure the inside of your cheeks and gums. Because your Houston dentist isn’t nearby, you don’t have a place to rush to for emergencies. We recommend packing your ortho wax in case of an accident. This way, you can temporarily relieve the pain or discomfort until you find a dental clinic near you.

Eat Braces-Friendly Food

The holidays are a time for delicious feasts, but it’s important to be mindful of the specific foods you eat. Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods that can damage your wires and brackets, leading you to need emergency dental care. Stick to soft foods that are easy on your Houston metal braces. If you’re strict about what you eat when you have traditional braces, the chances of you damaging your braces lessen.

Keep a Houston Dentist’s Contact Handy

If you’re going to be away from your dentist, make sure to look for dental clinics in the city you’re traveling to. Do your research and call the clinics ahead of time. Centra Dental is located in an accessible area and caters to a wide range of cases. We’re ready to serve your entire family should you need vital dental services.

Finish Your Dental Appointments

Before leaving for your trip, we suggest you finish all your scheduled dental appointments. Doing so lessens the chances of you needing emergency dental care. Our Houston dentist will make sure every bracket is in place and in good shape. If you have Invisalign, make sure you’re wearing your latest set of aligners. Getting your appointments done before the holidays ensures your treatment progress.

Schedule an Appointment for Houston Braces Today

Do you need dental assistance before you travel for the holidays? At Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles. Our top-rated dentists provide all vital services, such as teeth cleaning, Houston braces, fillings, and more. We have a clean and safe facility where you can feel comfortable and have a stress-free dental experience. We also accept dental insurance. Contact us today to schedule a visit!

Achieving a straight and beautiful smile with South Houston Invisalign is an exciting journey, and maintaining excellent dental hygiene is crucial throughout the process. Invisalign offers a discreet and convenient alternative to traditional South Houston braces, allowing you to align your teeth without the hassle of metal wires and brackets. At Centra Dental, your trusted provider of general and family dentistry in Southwest Houston, we understand the importance of proper dental care, especially for our Invisalign patients. Here are four essential dental hygiene best practices to ensure your Invisalign treatment progresses smoothly:

South Houston Dentist Recommends Maintaining an Oral Hygiene Routine

Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine is vital when undergoing Invisalign treatment. South Houston Invisalign aligners are removable, so be sure to brush your teeth after every meal before placing the aligners back in your mouth. Your South Houston dentists advises flossing daily as it is equally important to remove food particles and prevent plaque buildup, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout the process.

Clean Your South Houston Invisalign Aligners Regularly

Keeping your South Houston Invisalign aligners clean is crucial for both your oral hygiene and the effectiveness of the treatment. Rinse your aligners with lukewarm water every time you remove them. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently clean them, avoiding hot water, which could distort the aligners' shape. Regular cleaning prevents bacteria growth and maintains their transparency, ensuring they remain discreet while straightening your teeth.

Avoid Foods and Drinks That Can Stain Your South Houston Invisalign

Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and colored sauces, can stain your South Houston Invisalign aligners, making them more noticeable. To maintain their discreet appearance, it's best to avoid these staining substances. If you do consume them, be diligent about cleaning your teeth and aligners immediately afterward to prevent discoloration.

Regular Dental Check-ups with Your South Houston Dentist

Regular dental check-ups are essential during your Invisalign treatment. Schedule appointments with your South Houston dentist to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy. Your South Houston dentist can provide valuable insights and adjustments to your treatment plan, ensuring optimal results and a beautiful smile at the end of your Invisalign journey.

Get Your Invisalign Retainers from the South Houston Dentist You Can Trust

Here at Centra Dental, our helpful and caring staff is dedicated to making your Invisalign experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible. By following these best practices and maintaining excellent dental hygiene, you can achieve the smile you've always dreamed of with South Houston Invisalign. Book your consultation today and embark on the path to a confident and radiant smile.