About Orthodontic Services
Services offered by Naba Dental provide personalized, comprehensive care to adults and children. We work closely with you and other members of your family’s healthcare team to provide a comfortable and pleasant experience. We will help you achieve optimal oral health and a beautiful smile throughout your journey.
The orthodontic services we offer at our clinic include:
- Straightening teeth with braces (traditional and clear)
- Invisalign®
- Orthodontic treatment for misaligned teeth
Traditional Braces (Metal Braces)
Traditional braces or metal braces are metal brackets glued to the front of your teeth. Thin metal wires are then attached to the brackets and gently tightened to move your teeth into their proper positions gradually. During this process, patients must adhere to a series of recommended appointments throughout treatment.
The average orthodontic treatment plan with metal braces is approximately 24 months long.
Ceramic Braces
Ceramic braces, also called clear braces blend in with your teeth and might require fewer adjustments than traditional braces. However, treatment times for both types of braces are the same and may vary from patient to patient.
Invisalign®
Invisalign® is a series of clear, removable aligners that gradually move your teeth into their proper positions. Treatment takes an average of 12 months, and you will need to wear your aligners for 20-22 hours per day.
Orthodontic Treatment for Misaligned Teeth
If you have slightly crooked or misaligned teeth, we can provide orthodontic treatment to help correct them. Treatment times and methods vary depending on the severity of your misalignment.
Children’s Orthodontic Services
Our clinic also offers orthodontic services for children. During their treatment, kids can enjoy movies and TV shows in our private movie theater to make the journey more comfortable. The average child will need two years of brace wear before achieving a beautiful smile that is straight and properly aligned.
Know All About Braces
Braces can help you with the following issues:
- Crooked teeth
- Spacing between teeth
- Crowding of the teeth
- Invisalign / Invisalign Teen treatment options/li>
- Overbites and Underbites
- TMJ Disorder
- Sleep Apnea
Benefits of Braces
Improved appearance – Crooked teeth can be unsightly and affect your self-esteem. Braces can correct the alignment of your teeth and give you a more confident smile.
Improved oral health – When teeth are crooked or spaced out, it isn’t easy to clean them properly. It can lead to plaque build-up and cavities. Braces help properly align your teeth, making it easier to keep them clean and healthy.
Improved speech – Misaligned teeth can cause slurring of words and difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. Braces can correct the alignment of your teeth, helping you to speak more clearly.
Improved chewing ability – Crooked or crowded teeth can make chewing uncomfortable and awkward. Braces can help realign your teeth, improving both function and comfort while you eat.
Easier tooth brushing – When you have braces, you must brush your teeth after every meal. As a result, many people find that they are big fans of flossing. Braces make it easier to keep your teeth clean between dental visits, which helps to prevent cavities.
Improved self-confidence – A confident smile can be compelling for personal and professional relationships. Braces can help you feel more comfortable in social situations and give you the confidence that comes with having a healthy, attractive smile.
Treatment for TMJ Disorder and Sleep Apnea – If you have been diagnosed with TMJ Disorder or Sleep Apnea, braces may be recommended as a treatment option. Correcting your teeth’ alignment can help improve the symptoms of both conditions.
Kids Braces
What are kids braces?
Kids braces are a type of orthodontic device that is used to correct the alignment of teeth. They are typically worn by children between the ages of 8 and 14, although they may be prescribed at a younger or older age depending on the severity of the misalignment.
How do kids braces work?
Kids braces work by gently pushing teeth into their correct positions. This is accomplished by using a series of metal brackets that are attached to the teeth and then connected by thin wires. The wires are tightened over time in order to apply pressure to the brackets and move the teeth into position.
Adult Braces
What are adult braces?
Adult braces are a type of orthodontic device that is used to correct the alignment of teeth. Adult braces usually consist of metal brackets and wires, as well as a system of rubber bands to provide pressure on the teeth. This pressure typically only requires one appointment per year for tightening.
How do adult braces work?
Adult braces work very similarly to kid’s braces in that they guide the teeth into their correct positions by applying controlled pressure. The main difference between kids and adult braces is that adult braces are often much more comfortable because they don’t have to move the teeth very far. Kids who may be in pain with conventional adult braces can opt for implants instead which will require fewer wire adjustments over time.
How to Get Started
Contact our Houston office today to set up a consultation. We will work with you to make sure that we understand your goals, address any questions or concerns you have, and develop an effective treatment plan. During the consultation appointment, our doctors can take some x-rays of your teeth to get an idea of what we are working with and your dental needs.
When is the Best Time for Metal or Ceramic Braces?
The best time for metal braces depends on your specific dental needs, as well as your personal goals and treatment plan. Some children are ready for orthodontic treatment as early as age 7, while others may not be ready for ceramic braces until their teenage years. Talk to your doctor at Naba Dental about what to expect and when would be the best time for you or your child to start treatment.
What to Expect During the Consultation?
During your consultation appointment, we will ask you about any concerns you have and take x-rays of your teeth so that we can begin formulating a treatment plan. We need to know how crowded your teeth are, whether there are any out of the ordinary, and if you have any bite issues. We will also talk to you about your time frame for completing treatment and answer any questions you may have.
What to Expect During Your First Visit?
The first appointment takes about an hour or so. During this appointment, we will take impressions of your teeth and send them to the lab to start creating your braces. We may also begin treatment on your teeth, which could involve putting on temporary braces or bonding brackets to your teeth.
You will also be given a “braces kit” which will include all of the supplies you need for brushing and flossing. Sometimes, we will ask you to schedule a follow-up appointment to ensure that everything fits correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Complete Orthodontic Treatment in Houston
How long does it take?
Each person is different. It would be difficult to estimate exactly how long treatment will last because many factors can affect the time frame for braces. Your doctor can give you a better idea of what to expect based on his or her observations during your consultation appointment, but each case is unique, and some people may require more time than others.
Is the orthodontic treatment expensive?
Treatment at our clinic varies in price depending on the severity of your dental needs. We accept most insurance plans and work with several financing companies to ensure that everyone has access to quality care regardless of their budget.
Where do I get my retainers after my braces come off?
You will need to wear retainer(s) for 2-4 years after braces. You can schedule an appointment with our clinic to discuss retainers and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
What if I need a tooth removed?
You should not have to worry about losing a tooth as an adult, but sometimes it is necessary to provide the best orthodontic treatment possible. Our doctors will talk to you about any teeth that may need to be taken out before starting your adult dental braces treatment plan and help you decide what would work best for your situation.
What types of payment options do you accept?
We accept cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and several other insurance providers. We also offer flexible financing through CareCredit or Embrace for anyone who does not want to pay out of pocket.
How often will I need to come in for appointments?
Your treatment timeline will depend on your specific dental needs, but most patients visit our Houston office every 4-6 weeks. We may sometimes ask you to come in sooner or later depending on how well your teeth are reacting to the braces; however, each case is different, and everything we do is based on what would work best for you.
When should my child begin orthodontic treatment?
As soon as they are ready! Some doctors can get a head start by placing temporary appliances onto your child’s teeth while their adult teeth are coming in. Talk to our doctors about when they recommend starting the kids braces treatment so that you can have the best possible results!
Is it normal for my teeth to shift while I have braces?
Yes, teeth may shift to accommodate the changes in their position. This can be very minor or it could end up being quite extensive depending on how long you wear your braces and what areas need to move. Sometimes this will even happen after you get your braces off, but your teeth will usually return to their regular position within a few months.
Is it safe for me to get braces if I am pregnant?
That’s great that you are thinking about getting your teeth straightened! Most orthodontic procedures are completely safe, but we always recommend checking with your doctor before making any significant life changes during pregnancy.
Can I play sports while I have braces?
Yes! You can continue playing any sport you like while wearing braces as long as you take the necessary precautions. Our doctors may give you a mouthguard to wear during contact sports to help protect your teeth and braces.
Can I chew gum while I have braces?
No, you should not chew gum while you have braces. Gum can stick to the brackets and wires and cause them to come loose or even break. Try to avoid sticky foods in general, as they can be difficult to clean off of your teeth.
What are rubber bands?
Rubber bands are made of latex and can be used to help close gaps or change the position of your teeth. Our doctors may use them in conjunction with braces, but they are never a permanent solution. They usually need to be changed once every few months.
What do I need to bring when I come in for my appointment?
You will only need to bring your insurance card if you have dental insurance coverage. You should also have x-rays taken before each appointment so that our doctors can check the progress of your treatment. If you haven’t had them done recently, please call ahead to know what kind of files to save for you!
