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Centra Dental
South Houston dental braces can help you obtain that coveted beautiful and straight smile, but the journey to a perfect set of teeth can sometimes come with a little discomfort. It's essential to know how to manage this inconvenience and when it's crucial to seek guidance from your South Houston dentist. In this article, our top-rated South Houston dentist will explore effective ways to deal with discomfort from braces and when it's advisable to schedule a dental appointment.
Managing Discomfort from South Houston Braces
Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
One of the most common methods to alleviate discomfort from braces is to use over-the-counter pain relief medications. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions, and consult your South Houston dentist or orthodontist if you have any concerns about using these medications.
Orthodontic Wax
Orthodontic wax is a handy tool for reducing irritation caused by braces. You can apply a small amount of wax to the brackets or wires that are causing discomfort. This will create a smooth surface, preventing further irritation and allowing your mouth to heal.
Cold Compress
If you're experiencing swelling or inflammation due to your South Houston braces, applying a cold compress to the affected area can provide relief. Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and gently apply it to your cheek for 15-20 minutes at a time.
Soft Diet
Switching to a soft diet can significantly reduce the discomfort associated with braces. Opt for foods that are easy to chew and won't put too much pressure on your braces. Soups, yogurt, mashed potatoes, and smoothies are good choices during this time.
When Should I See My South Houston Dentist
While most discomfort from South Houston braces can be managed at home, it's essential to know when to seek professional help from your dentist:
Persistent Pain
If you experience severe or persistent pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter pain relief or other home remedies, it's time to schedule an appointment with your South Houston dentist. There might be an issue with your braces that needs professional attention.
Broken or Loose Brackets
Loose brackets or wires can cause significant discomfort as well as affect the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment. Contact your South Houston dentist immediately to address the issue and prevent further complications.
Sores or Ulcers
You need to consult your South Houston dentist if you develop sores or ulcers in your mouth that won’t heal. They can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment to alleviate the discomfort.
Alignment Concerns
If you notice a significant change in the alignment of your teeth or feel that something is not right with your braces, don't hesitate to reach out to your South Houston dentist. They can assess your progress and make necessary adjustments.
Work Top-Rated South Houston Dentist and Embrace Your Smile Without the Added Pain
Here at Centra Dental, we believe everyone is entitled to celebrate their smile. This is why we focus on procedures that can help anyone embrace their smile. Our top-rated dentists, supported by helpful and caring staff, will ensure that your experience before, during, and after your dental procedure will be pleasant, stress-free, and as pain-free as possible. Call us now because everyone deserves a smile they are proud to wear.
Centra Dental
Many dental patients prefer Invisalign over traditional or ceramic braces because of its unique benefits. Houston Invisalign is an effective treatment for teens and adults who have mild to moderate cases of misaligned teeth. If you’re considering starting your Invisalign treatment, turn to Centra Dental, where we embrace your smiles. Our Houston dentist will perform a thorough examination of your teeth to determine the best course of treatment. Continue reading below to have a better idea if you’re a good candidate for clear aligners.
Patients of Right Age
To be a good candidate for Houston Invisalign, you must have all your permanent teeth in place. If you still have some baby teeth, it can be hard to predict how the adult teeth will come in. Invisalign is molded and customized to your set of teeth. This is why your Houston family dentist will not recommend Invisalign for young kids.
Patients With Mild to Moderate Dental Problems
If you’re thinking about getting Invisalign, our Houston family dentist will assess if your dental problem is treatable with clear aligners. Houston Invisalign for teens is only effective for mild to moderate cases of misalignment. It will not work for severe cases of malocclusions and bite issues nor cases involving the jawbone. For the more serious issues, metal braces will be the right option.
Patients Who Don’t Want a Drastic Change
One of the unique benefits of Houston Invisalign is that it’s made of clear plastic, so it’s less obvious compared to metal braces. This makes teens and adults who don’t want a drastic change to their appearance ideal candidates. You can go about your day without your Invisalign being noticed too much but your treatment progress still continues. You can even remove your Invisalign if you have a special event or photoshoot.
Patients Who Are Diligent and Responsible
In order for Invisalign to be effective, you must wear them at least 22 hours a day. Even if you remove them when you eat and brush your teeth, make sure to put them back as soon as you’re done. You should also be diligent about your oral hygiene when you’re on Invisalign treatment. You may be more prone to cavities since bacteria grows on braces. If you’re not particular about your dental hygiene, you could slow down your progress.
Schedule a Visit for Houston Invisalign Today!
If you think you’re a good candidate for Houston Invisalign, schedule an appointment with our dental clinic for further assessment. At Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles. Our top-rated dentist provides all vital dental services, including teeth cleaning, fillings, crowns, root canals, and more. Your safety is our top priority, which is why we have strict measures when it comes to hygiene. We strive to make your visit with us as stress-free and pleasant as possible. Contact us today to book your appointment!
Centra Dental
Dental braces are an effective way to achieve a more beautiful smile that will give you a boost of confidence. They correct crooked teeth, bite issues, and spacing problems that may be making you conscious of your smile. While your South Houston braces are doing their part, you should also be doing yours by practicing good oral hygiene. Having braces means it’s easier for food to get lodged in your mouth, which can lead to tooth decay. At Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles, so we constantly remind our patients of the importance of maintaining your braces.
Prevent Dental Caries
Metal and ceramic braces involve brackets and wires that will be permanently cemented onto your teeth. This means that food will get stuck more often in your mouth than someone who’s not wearing South Houston braces. Trapped food leads to bacteria growth. Bacteria leads to plaque buildup, which is how cavities are formed. Without proper hygiene, cavities can lead to tooth decay, a serious dental problem.
Prevent Teeth Staining
If you’re fond of coffee and other dark-colored beverages, your teeth are more prone to staining. You should be extra diligent about brushing your teeth if you have South Houston braces. It’s harder to reach your teeth because of the brackets and wires. A good rule of thumb is to properly brush twice a day and floss at night. This way, you can prevent teeth staining and be happier with the results when your treatment is done.
Ensure Your Treatment Progress
Aside from oral hygiene, regular trips to your South Houston dentist are also important. You should still get teeth cleaning twice a year to get rid of stubborn plaque. Your dentist will also ask you to come in at least once a month so they can make adjustments to your Houston braces. Skipping your dental checkups will derail your progress or extend your treatment period. Get that new and improved smile in the shortest time possible by being diligent about your trips to the dentist.
How to Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Aside from regular brushing, there are other ways to maintain your teeth while wearing South Houston braces. Avoiding certain food can also make proper hygiene easier. You can read more here.
Schedule a Visit for South Houston Braces Today!
Do you have more questions about South Houston braces? Feel free to contact Centra Dental, where we embrace your smiles. Our top-rated Houston dentists will gladly answer any questions you have about your treatment. At our facility, we have surgically clean air circulating the entire time because we prioritize your safety. We also strive to make your dental experience as stress-free and pleasant as possible. You and your family can watch movies, play with toys, or use the WiFi while in the waiting room. We also accept dental insurance. Book an appointment with Centra Dental today!
Centra Dental
Getting that perfect smile takes just a little more work for others. Sometimes it requires a visit to your Houston dentist to correct crooked or misaligned teeth. However, today’s Houston braces are different from those of yesteryear. As dental technology advances, patients now have different types to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and considerations. Today, we take a look at the three most common options: Metal braces, Ceramic braces, and Invisalign. This way, you’ll have a good idea of why your Houston family dentist might recommend a particular option for you.
What are Metal Houston Braces?
Metal braces are the traditional option, consisting of metal brackets and wires. While they may not be the most aesthetically pleasing choice, they remain highly effective and are suitable for a wide range of orthodontic issues.
Pros of Houston Metal Braces
Cost-Effective: Metal braces are generally more affordable than their alternatives, making them a budget-friendly option.
Versatility: They can address complex orthodontic issues, such as severe misalignment and bite problems.
Effective Results: Metal braces have a proven track record of achieving successful and predictable results over time.
Cons of Houston Metal Braces
Appearance: Many patients are hesitant to choose metal braces due to their noticeable appearance.
Discomfort: The brackets and wires can cause mild discomfort and irritation, especially shortly after adjustments.
Oral Hygiene Challenges: Proper oral hygiene requires extra attention due to the presence of brackets and wires, which can make brushing and flossing more challenging.
What are Ceramic Houston Braces?
Ceramic braces offer a more discreet alternative to metal braces. They function similarly but feature brackets made from tooth-colored or clear ceramic material.
Pros of Houston Ceramic Braces
Aesthetics: Ceramic braces are less noticeable than metal braces, making them a popular choice among individuals who value the appearance of their braces.
Effective Treatment: Like metal braces, ceramic braces can effectively correct a wide range of orthodontic issues.
Stain Resistance: Modern ceramic materials are designed to resist staining, ensuring the brackets maintain their discreet appearance.
Cons of Houston Ceramic Braces
Cost: Ceramic braces are usually more expensive than metal braces due to the materials used.
Fracture Risk: The ceramic material can be more brittle than metal, increasing the risk of brackets chipping or breaking.
Maintenance: While they are less conspicuous, ceramic braces may require additional maintenance to prevent staining or discoloration.
What is Houston Invisalign?
Invisalign represents a revolutionary approach to orthodontic treatment, utilizing a series of clear, removable aligners to gradually shift teeth into their desired positions.
Pros of Houston Invisalign
Aesthetics: Invisalign aligners are virtually invisible, offering the utmost discretion during treatment.
Removability: Aligners can be easily removed for eating, brushing, and special occasions, providing greater flexibility.
Comfort: Invisalign aligners are made from smooth plastic, reducing the likelihood of irritation or discomfort.
Cons of Houston Invisalign
Compliance: Successful treatment with Invisalign relies on wearing the aligners for 20-22 hours a day. Non-compliance can lead to prolonged treatment times or compromised results.
Limited Severity: Invisalign may not be suitable for severe orthodontic cases or complex bite issues.
Cost: Invisalign treatment can be more expensive than traditional braces due to the advanced technology involved.
Find the Right Houston Braces for You at Centra Dental
At Centra Dental we believe that everyone deserves to have a smile they are proud to share. As your Houston family dentist, we know that selecting the right type of braces is an important personal decision influenced by factors such as treatment goals, lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences. That’s why you should visit the Houston dentist that will make your visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Give us a call and set an appointment today if you want to get a healthy, beautiful smile!
Centra Dental
Braces are an effective way to achieve straighter teeth and a more confident smile. They correct a range of dental problems, including crooked teeth, underbites, overbites, overcrowding, and more. Your orthodontist will discuss with you different types of braces you can get, including South Houston Invisalign. Which one is right for you? Our top-rated Houston dentist at Centra Dental discusses the pros and cons below.
Why Choose South Houston Invisalign?
Invisalign is a popular option among teens and adults because it’s less noticeable than metal braces. It’s made of clear plastic, making them practically invisible at a distance. You can also remove South Houston Invisalign when eating, taking pictures, or attending big events. They are considered more comfortable since no metal brackets and wires are present to chafe the inside of your cheeks. Your South Houston dentist will customize Invisalign for you every visit to ensure your treatment progress.
Does Invisalign Have Limitations?
Although South Invisalign has many pros, it’s not recommended for moderate to severe cases. Clear aligners have limitations when repositioning your teeth, which is why they aren’t as effective for serious dental problems. They are, however, effective for mild cases that can be treated between 6 to 18 months. You also have to be diligent when wearing your Invisalign and take extra care not to lose them.
Pros of Traditional Braces
For severely crooked teeth and bite issues, traditional South Houston braces are recommended. Metal applies much more force on the teeth than plastic can, making repositioning easier. An example of a dental problem that metal braces can treat is a malocclusion or a bad bite. Your dentist may even ask you to wear elastic bands to help with your treatment.
Downside of Metal Braces
Metal braces take some getting used to, and patients usually need an adjustment period. First of all, your appearance will change since metal is much more visible than South Houston Invisalign. You will also need to avoid certain foods, such as hard and sticky treats. If metal grazes your cheeks, you can use orthodontic wax. You will also feel discomfort for up to 4 days after your monthly adjustment.
Which Is Right for Me?
Our experienced dentists at Centra Dental will determine if South Houston Invisalign or metal braces are better suited for your needs. We embrace your smiles, so we will provide the best dental services until you’re happy with your results. Our state-of-the-art facility has all the equipment we need to create the most effective treatment plan for you.
Visit Our Clinic for South Houston Invisalign
Centra Dental is a clean and safe facility for all your dental needs. Our top-rated dentist provides all vital services, including cleaning, implants, teeth whitening, and orthodontics. Centra Dental embraces your smiles. We strive to make your experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible for the whole family. Feel free to ask us about our dental service specials and insurance we accept. We look forward to serving you.
Centra Dental
Gaining self-confidence during your formative years is important because it lets you make positive decisions about the rest of your life. One of the best ways to boost your image of yourself is to achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Centra Dental understands this and embraces your smile. We offer Houston Invisalign to not only boost your self-esteem but to also improve your dental health.
Achieve a More Beautiful and Confident Smile
One of the biggest insecurities of teenagers is their smile. Crooked or misaligned teeth as well as bite problems lower self-esteem starting from a young age. It’s understandable because your smile is the first thing that people may notice. Fortunately, Houston Invisalign is an effective way to correct dental problems that you may be insecure about. You can get the following benefits from your Invisalign treatment:
- No drastic change to your appearance since Invisalign is made of clear plastic unlike metal braces
- You can remove your Invisalign when eating, drinking, or taking pictures
- You can eat many types of food since Invisalign is removable
- Treatment is relatively quick, ranging from 6 months to 18 months
- You’ll experience minimal discomfort since there are not metal wires and brackets
- Your aligners are customized to your specific needs, ensuring your progress
Improve Your Overall Oral Health
Houston Invisalign isn’t just for aesthetic purposes; it’s also meant to improve your dental health. Issues like crooked teeth, underbites, overspacing, and more can cause moderate to severe medical conditions. They can cause speech impediments and even difficulty chewing, which greatly lowers your quality of life. Your Houston family dentist may recommend Invisalign to achieve one or more of the following:
- Corrects issues associated with speech or talking
- Prevents teeth from wearing out quickly due to improper alignment
- Helps with chewing by treating bite issues
- Reduces risk of tooth decay and cavities due to crooked teeth
- Lessens the buildup of bacteria in cases of overcrowding and overspacing
Houston Invisalign for teens has long-term health benefits not only for your teeth and gums but also for the rest of your well-being. Some studies have shown that braces may improve difficulty in sleeping by correcting misaligned jaws. There are also certain types of headaches and neck pain that are associated with dental issues. By correcting these issues with braces, your overall wellness is put on the right path.
Schedule an Appointment for Houston Invisalign Today!
Centra Dental embraces your smiles and wants you to feel more confident about yourself. We help our patients boost their self-esteem and oral health through our vital dental services. Our top-rated Houston dentist offers everything, from general cleaning to orthodontics and teeth whitening to fillings and crowns. We have a clean and safe facility where you can enjoy our WiFi and entertainment system. Surgically clean air is circulating our clinic the entire time. Why choose Centra Dental? We strive to make your dental experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Book your appointment for Houston Invisalign today!
Centra Dental
More and more teenagers are getting South Houston Invisalign because it is a proven way to achieve a more beautiful, confident smile. Here at Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles. Our top-rated South Houston dentist will give you the treatment you need in a stress-free and pleasant manner. Continue reading to learn more about why you should get Invisalign.
Benefits of Invisalign
Invisalign effectively corrects misaligned or crooked teeth, bite issues, and other dental problems. Aside from that, here are other advantages you can enjoy:
- Less visible than metal braces: Teens love getting South Houston Invisalign because it isn’t as noticeable as traditional braces. There’s no drastic change to their look in person and in pictures.
- Personalized treatment: Your South Houston dentist will take impressions of your teeth every visit so the lab can create your custom aligners. Having a personalized treatment makes it more effective in less time.
- Less discomfort: Invisalign is made of clear plastic, so this means there are no sharp wires and metal brackets. You won’t have to worry about chafing or cutting the insides of your cheek.
- Eat anything: Because Invisalign can be removed, you can eat all kinds of foods. You don’t have this luxury with traditional braces.
Maximize Your Treatment Success With These Tips
The last thing you want is for your South Houston Invisalign treatment to go to waste, so you need to keep these rules in mind.
Wear Your Aligners Diligently
You should wear your Houston Invisalign for at least 22 hours a day even when you’re sleeping. The only time you can take them off is when you’re eating or drinking. When they’re not inside your mouth, remember to keep them in a case to prevent loss and damage.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Just like traditional Houston braces, your Invisalign needs to be cleaned daily to prevent bacteria growth. Wash them with antibacterial soap and warm water twice a day or use a special cleaner prescribed by your South Houston dentist. Avoid using a toothbrush on your aligners, as this can be too abrasive.
Go In for Your Regular Visits
You should avoid missing your dental appointments because your progress depends on the adjustments made to your Invisalign. In every trip to the dentist, your aligners are customized to keep your treatment moving forward. Missing a visit means your teeth won’t be repositioned to the latest phase of your treatment.
Be Patient With Your Treatment
It will take a few months and even a year until you see the desired results from your South Houston Invisalign. You might even feel discomfort every now and then. Don’t be discouraged by these, as these are all normal. Be patient with your treatment, and you’ll achieve your ideal smile pretty soon.
Schedule an Appointment for South Houston Invisalign
Centra Dental embraces your smiles, and as such, we provide all the essential dental services. At our clean and safe facility, you’ll feel right at home. Your whole family can enjoy the WiFi, toys, and entertainment system while waiting. We have surgically clean air circulating the entire time because we prioritize hygiene. Feel free to ask us about our dental service specials and the insurance we accept. Contact us today to book an appointment!
Centra Dental
Achieving a more confident and beautiful smile is possible at any age with Houston braces. Treatment with braces also improves oral health by reducing bacteria growth, correcting chewing habits, and helping with speech. At Centra Dental, we embrace your smiles. We strive to make your treatment as effective and stress-free as possible. As such, we’ve put together oral hygiene tips if you or your child currently has braces.
Brush After Every Meal
Houston braces correct a wide range of dental issues, such as overcrowding, underbites, overbites, too much spacing, and many more. But you also have to be diligent when it comes to brushing your teeth to prevent buildup of bacteria. You’re not only cleaning your teeth, but you’re also cleaning your brackets and wires. There’s a special orthodontic toothbrush you can use to get into all the corners. Your Houston dentist will show you how to brush in angle to keep your brackets dirt-free. Here are some other daily hygiene tips:
- Brush every single bracket at an angle
- Floss once a day using a threader
- Rinse with antimicrobial mouthwash
Avoid Certain Foods
Patients with braces are more prone to plaque and tartar because of the numerous ways food can get stuck in the teeth. There are certain foods you must avoid if you want to reduce your chances of getting cavities. Hard food may damage your braces, which will result in unplanned trips to your Houston family dentist. Save yourself time and money by being mindful of the following:
- Hard food like candy, nuts, and chips
- Food that easily gets stuck like popcorn
- Sticky food like taffy, licorice, and caramel
- Corn on the cob and whole apples
- Chewing gum and jelly beans
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
When you have Houston braces, your orthodontist will ask you to come in for regular visits—at least once a month. During your appointments, your dentist will tighten your braces to keep your progress going. Your teeth need to keep repositioning if you want your treatment to be effective. They’ll also make sure you’re free of tooth caries and that there is no damage to your braces. Making it to your appointments is one of the most important ways you can maintain your braces.
Schedule a Visit With Centra Dental Today
Are you considering getting Houston braces? Book a consultation with our top-rated Houston dentist today! If you’re looking for a team of dental professionals who embrace your smiles, then Centra Dental is right for you. We strive to make your visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible by providing entertainment for the whole family while waiting. We have a clean and safe facility with surgical-quality air circulating the entire time. Feel free to ask us about our dental specials and insurance we accept. We look forward to your visit!