Good Breath Gone Bad!

Bad breath can be a real downer, especially if it is noticable to family and friends. It can, however, be prevented or at least controlled. Bad breath, or as doctors call it- "halitosis", is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grow in your mouth. This bacteria gathers on bits of food in your mouth and between your teeth and releases sulfur compounds which make your breath smell. Some foods, like garlic and onions, may contribute more to bad breath because of oils released by those foods. Smoking is another major cause of bad breath.

Here are some myths and truths surrounding bad breath:

Myth #1: Mouthwash will make my breath smell better

Mouthwash will make your breath smell better, but it is only a temporary fix. You will still need to brush and floss regularly, as mouthwash alone will not kill all the odor causing bacteria in your mouth. When choosing a mouthwash, pick an antiseptic with plaque-reducing compounds. Also make sure any dental products you choose come with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval!

Myth #2: If I brush my teeth, I will never have bad breath

Brushing your teeth can definitely help prevent bad breath, but the truth is most people only brush their teeth for about 30-45 seconds! You need to brush your teeth at least two times a day for about 2 minutes to give your teeth a thorough cleansing. It's also very important to brush your tongue, which is where the majority of odor causing bacteria like to hang out. Lastly, flossing to remove food and plaque between the teeth will also help reduce your chances of having bad breath!

Myth #3: If I don't smell it, than my breath is fresh

This is a false assumption because the breath you exhale when you breath out is not the same as the breath that leaves your mouth when you talk. When you breathe, you are not using your throat as much as you do when you are talking. When you talk, more breath moves over the back of your mouth where the bacteria causing the odor are located.

TRUTH #1: Brush your teeth at least twice a day (for at least 2 minutes, and don't forget the tongue), floss at least once a day, and visit your dentist every six months...This way your breath stands the best chance of always being fresh!

Invisalign Teen at Braces by Souris: What Parents Should Know

Invisalign Teen has become an up and coming treatment for our younger patients because it provides an option for them to achieve a straight, healthy smile without anyone noticing! Unlike traditional metal braces, teens using the Invisalign Teen system can remove the aligners (they look like clear retainers), allowing them to eat just about anything without worrying about breaking their braces. This also makes teeth easier to brush and keep clean during treatment.

There are several things for parents to remember when considering their options for orthodontic treatment. For example, the cost of Invisalign varies depending on your teen's specific case, but can often be comparable to treatment with traditional braces. At our office we strive to make orthodontics affordable for everyone, and we can determine the cost for your teen during our initial complimentary consultation. We can also determine if your child is a good candidiate for Invisalign Teen and discuss our available interest free financing options if necessary.

Dr. Souris was one of the first certified in the Cleveland area and is a premier provider, meaning that we are one of the most experienced practices in the area with the Invisalign system. Please feel free to call and schedule a comlpimentary consultation with our office at 440-734-1146 or visit us at our website: www.bracesbysouris.com.

Oral Piercing: Is It Worth It? Dr. Souris Explains

Piercing, like tattooing, is one of today's popular forms of "body art" and self-expression. If you're thinking about getting a piercing, or if you already have one, we want to share some health risks you should know about.

Your mouth contains millions of bacteria, and infection is a common complication of oral piercing. Just touching your mouth jewelry can lead to infection. Many people who have piercings tend to touch them regularly, which is the perfect opportunity for bacteria from hands to enter the piercing sites. Also, food particles that tend to collect around the sites can lead to infection as well.

Pain and swelling are other possible side effects of piercing. Your tongue, the most popular piercing site in the mouth, could swell large enough to close off your airway! Piercing can also cause excessive bleeding or nerve damage. Damage to the tongue's blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

The hoop, ring, stud, and barebell-shaped jewelry can hinder your ability to talk and eat. Some people also develop a habit of biting or playing with their piercings, which can lead to cracked teeth, gum damage and recession, and sensitive teeth. This may lead to a need for additional dental treatment such as crowns and fillings.

Consider the potential pitfalls of oral piercings before getting one. Keep in mind that it will be an added responsibility to your life and will need regular upkeep. Make sure that you're committed to the task of taking care of it for the full healing period and beyond.

If you have an oral piercing, make sure you are cleaning it with antiseptic mouthwash after eating and brushing the jewelry when you brush your teeth. Of course, let us know at Braces by Souris if you have any questions.