Houston dentist

Maintaining Oral Hygiene with Metal Houston Braces
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!
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.
New Year, New Smile! Start the Year Off Right with Houston Invisalign
As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us embrace the opportunity for self-improvement and positive change. One transformative way to kickstart the year is by embarking on a journey towards a confident and radiant smile. At Centra Dental, your go-to provider for general and family dentistry in Southwest Houston, we offer a cutting-edge solution to align your teeth without the hassle of traditional braces—introducing Houston Invisalign.
Nu-Crowns: The Best Method for Dental Crowns
Dentistry continues to develop new technologies that help patients preserve their teeth and overall oral health. At Centra Dental in South Houston, we utilize these new medical breakthroughs to better serve you and your family. It is our primary goal to ensure you have a beautiful and healthy smile. One of those dental breakthroughs is the usage of Nu-Crowns.

For patients with weak teeth or deep cavities, Nu-Crowns can strengthen and revitalize a smile. Dental crowns are one of the most common types of dental procedures performed. Crowns are used to save existing teeth from further decay and enable a patient to return to the normality of chewing and speaking as if their teeth had always been healthy.

Dental crowns have allowed patients the opportunity to save their existing teeth on a long term basis, rather than having to opt to have their teeth pulled due to decay.

WHAT DO NU-CROWNS DO?

Nu-Crowns have taken the existing dental crown technology and expanded it to simplify the process of utilizing crowns. Here are several ways Nu-Crowns have simplified the dental crown procedure:
- Dental Margins - Nu-Crowns provide extreme accuracy when it comes to aligning new dental crowns to the rest of the existing teeth. Due to excess resin in these crowns, our dentists are able to choose from two or three different crowns to fit each tooth. This allows for more accurate fitting.
- Close Contact - Teeth need to be close together in order to help prevent food particles from becoming stuck or from allowing individual teeth to become weakened. Close neighboring teeth strengthens all of the teeth, and this is one of the benefits of Nu-Crowns. Nu-Crowns ensure there is close contact with neighboring teeth.
- Occlusion - When the mouth closes, both jaw lines should be aligning correctly. There should be no unevenness with the teeth, which is called malocclusion. Malocclusion can cause stress on certain teeth in the mouth due to all of the pressure being placed on them. Due to this, those teeth can become weakened and even begin to break down. Nu-Crowns helps create a perfect alignment and alleviates those problems.
- Faster Procedure - Since Nu-Crowns allow for dentists to choose from several crowns, it enables the procedure to be performed quicker. Along with the dental procedure being conducted in a more timely manner, Nu-Crowns also are more economical.
ARE YOU IN NEED OF DENTAL CROWNS?

If you are suffering from deep cavities or weak teeth, then Nu-Crowns may be exactly what you need. Our Centra Dental dentists will provide a thorough examination of your teeth to conclude precisely your dental needs. You may simply need dental fillings or you may require dental crowns. Our dentists will discuss what is needed for you to continue with the best oral health possible. Contact our office today and schedule your dental appointment.
Our Houston Dental Office Wants To Protect Your Kid From Cavities
Oral health is imperative to your child’s overall wellbeing, as a healthy mouth goes hand-in-hand with a healthy child. Unfortunately, cavities are one of the most common issues that negatively affect our children’s oral health. In fact, cavities are five times more likely to be found in our nation’s children than asthma.

Cavities occur when bacteria and food are not properly brushed away, causing acid to form on the tooth. The acid begins to soften the tooth’s enamel until a hole — or cavity — develops. Alarmingly, more than half of all children have cavities by the second grade! This is why here at Centra Dental, our kids dentists stress to parents the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth in their kids.

Tips For Preventing Cavities In Your Kids

Teach good oral hygiene habits early. Once your child is old enough to brush their teeth, make sure they brush at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpast. Consistent use of fluoride strengthens enamel, which in turn makes it difficult for acid to penetrate. Although most toothpastes contain fluoride, toothpaste alone cannot fully protect your kid’s teeth from cavities. Therefore, it’s important for you to remind your child to floss regularly as well.

While some towns fluoridate their tap water, some do not. If your town’s tap water is not fluoridated or if your family uses purified water, ask our kids dentists for fluoride supplements. Also, keep in mind that too much fluoride can cause teeth to discolor. Therefore, check with our Houston dental office before supplementing.

Limit or avoid certain foods. Sugary foods, such as cookies and candy (especially sticky gummies and taffies) can erode enamel and cause cavities. In addition, sugary drinks are just as bad for your child’s enamel. Therefore, if your kid eats and drinks any of these things, make sure they brush their teeth or at the very least, rinse their mouth to wash away the sugar. Have them do the same if they take a syrupy medicine, as these are often sweetened with sugar to make them more palatable to kids.

See Our Kids Dentists Regularly

In addition to the aforementioned tips, bringing your child into our Houston dental office to see our kids dentists for regular teeth cleanings and checkups are a big part of avoiding cavities. During these visits to our Southwest Houston dental office, our Houston dentists will help with teaching your kid the importance of good oral hygiene, while answering any questions your may have. We are committed to the health and wellness of your child, so contact us today to set up an appointment.
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 Invisalign Over Houston Braces
At Centra Dental, we are dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care that fits your unique needs. Our comprehensive services, including Houston Invisalign, metal braces, and ceramic braces, are tailored to help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each option can guide you toward the right choice.
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 Parents Hesitate To Get Dental Braces For Their Kid
Approximately 4 million Americans wear dental braces, with children making up roughly 80 percent of wearers. For many American children, getting dental braces is more a question of “when” rather than “if”, as getting one’s teeth straightened is just another common part of growing up.

Health Benefits of Braces

Straightening one’s teeth is not just a cosmetic issue. Misaligned or crooked teeth can lead to significant medical issues such as: chronic headaches, bad digestion, gum disease, and tooth loss. Failure to invest a relatively small amount of money in braces can easily lead to exponentially larger medical bills in the future.

Despite the many cosmetic and health benefits a child receives from having straight teeth, there are still some parents who hesitate at getting their kid fitted for braces. The following are two of the top reasons for their hesitation, and how we here at Centra Dental address them.

Price of Dental Braces

This is perhaps the most common reason parents hesitate to get their kid fitted for braces. They may feel their kid’s teeth aren’t that bad and can’t seem to justify the cost. They are also not aware of the health issues related to having crooked teeth or a misaligned jaw.

Our Houston dental office always educates parents on the many health benefits of braces. We help the parents understand that by getting their child braces, they are making an investment in their child’s health. In addition, we are constantly offering great deals on dental braces, which also help parents overcome their hesitancy.

Pain From Dental Braces

Many parents are afraid that their child will experience pain from braces. There might be slight pain in the teeth or jaw in the beginning, but this is because the wires and brackets are new to the mouth and actively moving the teeth. An over-the-counter pain reliever such as Ibuprofen will easily relieve such pain symptoms, and soon the child’s mouth will adjust to the braces and no longer feel pain.

Contact Centra Dental For A Dental Braces Consultation

Our Houston dentists understand that for many parents, deciding whether or not to get braces for their kid is a big decision. This is why our dental office in southwest Houston makes a point of helping parents feel comfortable through education and great pricing. We are dedicated to your child’s overall health, so contact us today to set up a braces consultation.
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.
Sedation: The Calming Effect for Dentistry
Patients are typically nervous when they come to the dentist. For that reason, we specialize in providing various forms of sedation to help our guests relax.

At Centra Dental, our primary goal is to ensure that every Houston dental patient has a great experience. Our staff works hard everyday to make the process of receiving dental care easy and seamless. From appointment to procedure, our patients know they are in good hands regardless of what oral needs they have: be it a dental cleaning, dental fillings, dental crowns, or oral surgery.

WHY WE USE SEDATION

During many of our dental procedures that come with the possibility of pain, we numb the affected area so the patient won’t feel anything during the procedure. Although we remove the possibility of pain in the area, it doesn’t always remove a patient’s nervousness or anxiety.

Depending on the patient and their needs, we apply certain levels of sedation to calm the guest so that they can be at ease throughout the entire procedure. The age ranges of dental patients at Centra Dental are vast. From small children to senior citizens, we are certain to ask about their levels of nervousness before the start of the procedure. After ascertaining this information, we apply our sedation accordingly until the patient is ready to begin the procedure.

It is Christmas-time, but we promise our sedatives aren’t anything like what the Grinch offers. Our sedation methods are pain-free experiences.

The reason we take such measures is because we understand the value of first impressions. We want every dental patients’ experience to be a positive one, regardless of how many times they’ve come to see us and regardless of what procedure it is. Every impression is important, but ensuring the first impression is a positive one creates a strong sense of immediate trust and comfort. Achieving this and then building upon that experience is paramount to us.

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

If you are in need of dental work, even before Christmas arrives, contact us today and make your appointment.
Sedation: The Calming Effect for Dentistry
Patients are typically nervous when they come to the dentist. For that reason, we specialize in providing various forms of sedation to help our guests relax.

At Centra Dental, our primary goal is to ensure that every Houston dental patient has a great experience. Our staff works hard everyday to make the process of receiving dental care easy and seamless. From appointment to procedure, our patients know they are in good hands regardless of what oral needs they have: be it a dental cleaning, dental fillings, dental crowns, or oral surgery.

WHY WE USE SEDATION

During many of our dental procedures that come with the possibility of pain, we numb the affected area so the patient won’t feel anything during the procedure. Although we remove the possibility of pain in the area, it doesn’t always remove a patient’s nervousness or anxiety.

Depending on the patient and their needs, we apply certain levels of sedation to calm the guest so that they can be at ease throughout the entire procedure. The age ranges of dental patients at Centra Dental are vast. From small children to senior citizens, we are certain to ask about their levels of nervousness before the start of the procedure. After ascertaining this information, we apply our sedation accordingly until the patient is ready to begin the procedure.

It is Christmas-time, but we promise our sedatives aren’t anything like what the Grinch offers. Our sedation methods are pain-free experiences.

The reason we take such measures is because we understand the value of first impressions. We want every dental patients’ experience to be a positive one, regardless of how many times they’ve come to see us and regardless of what procedure it is. Every impression is important, but ensuring the first impression is a positive one creates a strong sense of immediate trust and comfort. Achieving this and then building upon that experience is paramount to us.

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

If you are in need of dental work, even before Christmas arrives, contact us today and make your appointment.
Should You Get Ceramic Houston Braces or Metal Dental Braces?
When it comes to achieving the perfect smile, the decision between ceramic Houston braces and metal dental braces can be a significant one. Each type of dental braces comes with its own set of advantages and considerations, making it essential to weigh your options carefully. At Centra Dental, your trusted provider of general and family dentistry, our knowledgeable Houston dentist is here to assist you in making the best choice for your orthodontic needs.
Should Your Child Get Houston Invisalign?
As a parent, ensuring your child has a healthy, confident smile is likely a top priority. When it comes to orthodontic treatment, many parents today are considering Invisalign as an alternative to traditional braces. But is Houston Invisalign the right choice for your child? At Centra Dental, where we embrace your smiles and strive to provide the best dental experience for the entire family, we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

What Is Houston Invisalign?

Invisalign is a modern orthodontic treatment that uses clear, removable aligners to gradually straighten teeth. These aligners are custom-made for each patient and are typically changed every two weeks as the teeth slowly move into their desired positions. Invisalign offers a more discreet option compared to traditional metal braces, making it particularly appealing to both teens and their parents.

Benefits of Houston Invisalign for Children
- Discreet Appearance: One of the most significant advantages of Houston Invisalign is its nearly invisible appearance. For children and teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing braces, Invisalign offers a subtle solution that won’t affect their confidence.
- Comfort and Convenience: Invisalign aligners are made from smooth, comfortable plastic, reducing the likelihood of irritation to the gums and cheeks often caused by metal Houston braces. Additionally, because the aligners are removable, your child can eat, brush, and floss without any restrictions, making it easier to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Fewer Dental Visits: With traditional braces, frequent visits to our Houston dentist are necessary for adjustments. Invisalign typically requires fewer appointments, as you receive several sets of aligners at a time, which can be changed at home according to the treatment plan.
- Effective Treatment: Invisalign is highly effective at treating a variety of orthodontic issues, including overcrowding, gaps, and misaligned bites. Many children and teens can achieve the same results with Invisalign as they would with traditional braces, but with the added benefits of comfort and convenience.
Is Your Child a Good Candidate for Houston Invisalign?

While Invisalign offers many advantages, it’s essential to determine if it’s the right option for your child’s specific needs. Houston Invisalign is generally recommended for children who have all their permanent teeth, which usually occurs around ages 12 to 13. However, every child is different, and our team at Centra Dental will carefully assess your child’s teeth and jaw alignment to ensure that Invisalign is the most suitable treatment.

It’s also important to consider your child’s level of responsibility. Invisalign requires discipline, as the aligners must be worn for 20 to 22 hours a day to be effective. If your child is likely to remove the aligners frequently or forget to wear them, traditional braces might be a better option.

Why Choose Centra Dental for Your Child’s Invisalign Treatment?

At Centra Dental, we understand that choosing the right orthodontic treatment for your child is a big decision. That’s why we’re committed to providing the best dental experience for your entire family. Our clean and safe facility is equipped with the latest technology, and our caring team is dedicated to making every visit comfortable and stress-free.

We take the time to explain all available options and work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your child’s needs. Whether it’s Invisalign or another orthodontic solution, our goal is to help your child achieve a beautiful, healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

Book a Visit for Houston Invisalign Today

Invisalign can be an excellent option for children and teens who are looking for a discreet, comfortable way to straighten their teeth. However, it’s important to consider your child’s specific needs and habits before making a decision. Our Houston family dentist is here to guide you through the process and ensure that your child receives the best possible care. Embrace your child’s smile with confidence—schedule a consultation at Centra Dental today to see if Houston Invisalign is the right choice for your family.
South Houston Invisalign For Teens
Invisalign Clear Aligners are an increasingly popular method for correcting any misalignment in your teenager’s teeth. At our South Houston family dentist office, we offer Invisalign in addition to ceramic dental braces and metal Houston braces to our pediatric dental patients. In this blog, we will explain why Invisalign may be a great option for your teenager.

South Houston Invisalign Is A Subtle And More Comfortable Option For Teenagers

Unlike metal or ceramic Houston braces, Invisalign doesn’t require brackets, wires, or rubber brands. In fact, Clear Aligners are much like clear plastic retainers that are made by first completing a 3D scan of your teen’s mouth. Once we complete the scans and study them, we will design custom plastic Invisalign trays that will be made in our dental lab. These plastic trays will put gentle pressure on your teenager’s teeth so that they gradually shift until they are straight.

Because there are no wires involved and, as their name implies, Invisalign Clear Aligners are nearly transparent when placed on the teeth. This is ideal for your child if they tend to feel self-conscious in their smile and would prefer not to draw attention to their teeth

South Houston Invisalign Is Flexible

If your teenager is very responsible and well-disciplined, they will greatly benefit from the greater flexibility that Invisalign offers. Invisalign is removable, unlike our other Houston braces treatments, so our patients should remove them at mealtimes. Additionally, if worn as directed by our South Houston family dentist, which is for 20-22 hours a day without being misplaced or lost, then your teenager may be able to skip the Invisalign for a special occasion, such as prom.

Are There Any Downsides To Invisalign Clear Aligners?

Invisalign seems like the perfect solution to fix a bad bite, but there are some limitations. For example, if your teenager has a severe malocclusion, Invisalign may not be as effective or as efficient at straightening the teeth compared to metal dental braces. Further, their flexibility will require your teenager to be very mindful of perfectly following our instructions in order to get the most out of Invisalign.

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

If you think Invisalign might be a good option for your teen, then please book an appointment with our South Houston family dentist. We will determine what treatment method works best for your child's smile.
Study Shows Link Between Oral Health and Classroom Performance
With the new school year just beginning, many parents are still scrambling to complete their back-to-school-to-do lists. If you are a parent who is invested in their child’s academic success, you may want to add bringing them to see our kids dentist to your list, as a recent study from the University of Southern California found a link between oral health and classroom success.

While this link may come as a surprise to many parents, the research from the study shows that toothaches, cavities and other painful dental problems can cause difficulty focusing and concentrating, thus resulting in absences and poor performance. Furthermore, painful cavities can lead to difficulties in eating and speaking, resulting in self-esteem issues.

Preventive Care From Our Southwest Houston Dental Clinic

The best way to help your children avoid these problematic and painful issues is through preventive care. Our Houston dental office recommends bringing your child to see our kids dentists twice a year. Visiting our Southwest Houston dental clinic for preventive care has the added bonus of being able to ask our kids dentists for tips on establishing good dental hygiene habits.

Visiting Our Kids Dentists Isn’t The Only Preventive Measure

Dental check-ups at our Houston dental clinic are just one aspect of maintaining good oral health. It’s just as important your child practices proper dental hygiene habits. Brushing at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and avoiding sugary snacks are dental habits every kid should be practicing.

Having good oral hygiene develops self-discipline and taking pride in oneself, qualities beneficial to a child’s academic performance. Contact Our Southwest Houston Dental Office Here at Centra Dental, our kids dentists understand that having a healthy mouth greatly contributes to a positive sense of self in your child, resulting in better performance in all facets of your child’s life – including academics. If you live in Southwest Houston or the surrounding areas, contact our Houston dental office today to setup an appointment.
The Advantages of Houston Invisalign Over Traditional Braces
A beautiful smile can boost confidence and improve oral health, and thanks to modern advancements, achieving that perfect smile has become easier and more comfortable than ever. Houston Invisalign, a popular alternative to traditional metal braces, is a game-changer for those seeking straighter teeth without the hassle and discomfort of traditional braces. At Centra Dental, we embrace every smile, providing a clean, safe, and family-friendly environment to ensure you receive the best dental experience in Houston. If you're considering straightening your teeth, here are some advantages of choosing Invisalign over traditional braces.

1. Discreet Appearance

One of the main reasons people prefer Houston Invisalign is the nearly invisible appearance of the aligners. Made from clear plastic, Invisalign aligners are subtle and blend in with your natural teeth, making them ideal for adults and teens who may feel self-conscious about wearing traditional metal braces. Whether you're in a professional setting, at school, or socializing, Invisalign allows you to maintain confidence in your appearance without the noticeable metal wires and brackets.

2. Comfort and Convenience

Traditional Houston braces can be uncomfortable due to the metal brackets and wires that can irritate the inside of your mouth. Invisalign aligners, on the other hand, are made from smooth, BPA-free plastic, making them much more comfortable to wear. Since they are custom-fitted to your teeth, there are no sharp edges or wires that can cause discomfort or injury. Additionally, Invisalign aligners are removable, allowing you to take them out when eating, brushing, or flossing—something that’s not possible with traditional braces. This convenience makes maintaining oral hygiene easier and prevents food from getting stuck in your braces.

3. Fewer Dental Visits

With traditional braces, frequent dental visits are necessary to adjust the wires and brackets. Invisalign requires fewer trips to your Houston dentist because you receive a set of aligners that gradually move your teeth over time. You’ll typically need to visit Centra Dental every 6-8 weeks to check on your progress and receive your next set of aligners. This means less time spent in the dental chair and more time enjoying life.

4. No Dietary Restrictions

One of the major downsides to traditional braces is the list of food restrictions, as sticky, hard, or chewy foods can damage the brackets and wires. With Houston Invisalign, there are no dietary restrictions because the aligners are removable. You can enjoy your favorite foods without worrying about damaging your orthodontic appliance. Just remember to remove the aligners before eating and brush your teeth before putting them back in.

5. Improved Oral Hygiene

Maintaining good oral hygiene can be challenging with traditional braces, as it’s harder to clean around the wires and brackets. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Invisalign makes it easy to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would, reducing the risk of oral health issues during your treatment. At Centra Dental, we emphasize the importance of maintaining clean and healthy teeth throughout your Invisalign journey.

Why Choose Centra Dental for Your Houston Invisalign Treatment?

At Centra Dental, we provide a welcoming environment where families can feel comfortable and confident in their dental care. Our team of top-rated dentists is dedicated to delivering the best dental experiences, whether you're considering Invisalign or another service. With our clean, safe facility and focus on patient satisfaction, you can trust our Houston family dentist to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

If you’re ready to explore the benefits of Houston Invisalign and start your journey toward a straighter smile, contact Centra Dental today. We’re here to embrace your smile and provide you with the care and support you deserve!
The Benefits of Houston Invisalign for Adults

At Centra Dental, we believe that a confident smile is for everyone—no matter their age. As a trusted Houston family dentist, we understand that many adults want straighter teeth but prefer a discreet, comfortable solution. That’s why Houston Invisalign is an excellent choice for adults looking to enhance their smile without the hassle of traditional braces.
The Benefits of Houston Invisalign Over Traditional Braces
In the quest for a straighter smile, orthodontic treatment options have evolved significantly over the years. One such advancement is Houston Invisalign, a revolutionary approach to teeth straightening that offers numerous benefits over traditional braces. At Centra Dental, your trusted provider of general and family dentistry, we understand the importance of providing patients with the most effective and comfortable orthodontic solutions available. In this article, your trusted Houston dentist discusses the advantages of Houston Invisalign and why it may be the ideal choice for achieving your dream smile.