Traditional Orthodontics – Houston, TX

Factors That Can Influence the Cost of Traditional Braces

The cost of braces in Houston will depend on our findings during your evaluation, once we’ve had a chance to examine your X-rays, capture your bite, and visually examine your smile. After this, multiple factors will play into determining the cost of your treatment, including:

• Whether both arches need to have braces.
• The severity of dental misalignment, which could determine how long you need braces for.
• Whether you have malocclusion.
• Additional necessary accessories, like rubber bands.

At your appointment, Dr. Ahn, who has received additional education in orthodontics, will explain to you in detail what your journey will look like, and our team will provide you with a detailed cost estimate.

Assessing the Value in Quality Orthodontic Care

Mail-order braces systems are becoming more popular due to their low up-front costs, but the reality is that these can lead to serious issues down the road due to the lack of professional oversight involved in the process. Because you’re responsible for capturing your own dental impressions, an incredibly important part of the treatment, and you won’t be following-up with a professional throughout the mail-order aligner process, there are more things that are likely to go awry, leading to the need for extensive dental intervention down the road.

With traditional braces from a trained professional like Dr. Ahn, you can enjoy peace of mind that you’ll have someone you trust that you can directly reach out to if you have any concerns. We also utilize the latest technology to ensure precise and reliable results, like our 3D cone beam scanner and digital impression system. 

Does Dental Insurance Cover Braces?

Each dental insurance plan can vary, and while most will cover the cost of braces for patients under 18 years old, others may not. Some plans even offer benefits for braces for adults. To get the specifics of your plan, you’ll need to reach out directly to the company. If you’re having difficulty nailing down your orthodontic coverage, our team will be happy to assist you.

Making Braces More Affordable

To help make getting braces for you or your teen more affordable, we’re proud to be an in-network provider with Delta Dental. Even if you’re out-of-network, we will file a claim on your behalf so you can receive the maximum reimbursement from your insurance company. If you are uninsured or underinsured, we also work with a trusted third-party financer, CareCredit. They offer low monthly payment plans at little to no interest.

Do Traditional Braces Hurt?

It’s absolutely normal to feel some soreness during your orthodontic treatment, specifically following your adjustments. However, the sensation will be relatively minor. Furthermore, you can alleviate any discomfort you do feel by sticking to soft foods, placing a cold compress against the outside of your cheek, and taking an OTC pain reliever as instructed.

Note: if your discomfort is the result of a sharp bracket or wire, then you can use some dental wax to cover it as well.

What Can You Not Eat with Traditional Braces?

Although the dietary restrictions that come with traditional braces can take some getting used to, it’s important to remember why they are in place: to reduce your chances of experiencing an orthodontic emergency. That’s why our Houston dental team recommends steering clear of all crunchy, sticky, and hard foods, including taco shells, caramel, and tortilla chips.

Can You Drink Coffee with Traditional Braces?

Yes, you can! Of course, we recommend using a straw to help protect your teeth (as well as your braces) from discoloring. Additionally, you should keep additives, like sugar, to a minimum since they can increase your chances of developing tooth decay. After you’re done enjoying your beverage, wait about 20 minutes and then brush your teeth.

Why Do My Teeth Feel Loose with Braces?

At first, loose teeth can be alarming. However, this is actually very normal during orthodontic treatment. The exception, of course, is if one or more of your teeth feel like they are going to fall out. If that’s the case, then you should absolutely call our Houston dental office right away so we can determine what the next best steps are.

What Happens After You Get Your Braces Off?

Orthodontic relapse is something that upwards of 50% of patients experience after removing their braces, and it refers to the phenomenon where your now-straight teeth begin to drift back to their previous, misaligned positions. One of the best ways to prevent this from happening to you is by wearing a retainer. We will provide you with this orthodontic device at the end of your time with braces, and we will give you specific instructions on how to care for it as well as how often you should wear it.