Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Rest Assured, You're Insured!


Not sure about your insurance? Don't worry! We accept most insurance and are a preferred provider on most of the available plans (check your list!). Our exceptional staff works with each patient individually to carefully check their insurance coverage, making it possible for patients to have the smallest co-pay available.


If you're unsure about your insurance plan or have questions about your coverage, please contact our office at 440-734-1146. We will help you sort through the paperwork and set up a financial plan that is affordable and manageable for your personal budget. We offer interest free payment options as well as long term financing to accomodate your needs. We believe everyone deserves a great smile- yours awaits you: http://www.bracesbysouris.com/!

Friday, April 16, 2010

Toothbrush Trivia


People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first "toothbrush" was developed around 3000 BC! Ancient civilizations used the frayed edge of a thin twig to rub against their teeth for cleaning. The first toothbrush with bristles was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo and the bristles were formed from the hairs off the back of a hog's neck.


It wasn't until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced, and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene. Here are some other interesting facts:


*The most common toothbrush color is blue

*The first toothpaste was used in China and India in 500 BC

*On average, children smile about 400 times a day

*You should replace your toothbrush every two months

*The first known toothpaste used in the US was in 1780, Colgate was introduced in 1873, and Crest in 1955

Saturday, April 10, 2010

What Makes an Orthodontist Different than a General Dentist?


"Dentists, Orthodontists, aren't they all the same?" We hear our patients asking this question all the time, as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist, Dr. Souris started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree) just like your dentist. After dental school, however, Dr. Souris decided he wanted to pursue additional training in the field of orthodontics, which is one of the nine specialties within the dental field. He then got an additional two years of training and earned a Masters Degree along with his specialty certificate to make him an expert in the field of orthodontics- focusing only on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and underbites.


Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontics (focusing on the nerves inside the teeth), periodontics (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding the teeth), and prosthodontics (focusing on replacing and fixing damaged teeth).


Isn't it nice to know there's a dental expert here to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaws, and gums might need? To learn more about the specialty of orthodontics, visit us at http://www.bracesbysouris.com/. Please feel free to contact us with any additional questions!