Blog

When you think of braces, who do you picture wearing them? If you’re like most Americans, children and teens come to mind. If you’re unhappy with your smile, you probably think you missed your chance for straight teeth, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Thanks to advances in technology, orthodontic treatment for adults has become more common while producing excellent results. So much so, The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) found that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 18. Read More

We all know what it’s like to have morning breath. But those of us with braces may have morning breath that is a little stronger than most.

Dry Mouth and Morning Breath

The most common cause of morning breath is dry mouth. When you sleep, your body is not able to produce as much saliva. This is done so that you can stay asleep longer and not have to constantly swallow.

Why is saliva so important? Saliva is a crucial part of oral health because it washes away food and sugar particles left behind when we eat. This reduces acid and helps balance pH levels in the mouth. Read More

Did you know that orthodontic treatment is more than just straightening teeth? The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) states, “The goal of orthodontic treatment is a beautiful smile and a good bite—meaning straight teeth that mesh well with the teeth in the opposite jaw and look great.” A straighter smile isn’t only good for aesthetics, it can also make it easier for you to bite, chew and even speak.

Cost vs. Value

Compared to the drastic increase in the price of a house or car in the last 20 years, you will get more value with orthodontic treatment as it typically lasts longer than most people keep a car or even the same house. With proper oral hygiene, the beautiful new smile you achieve with Dr. Carlyn Phucas at Carlyn Phucas Orthodontics can last a lifetime at an unbelievable value. Read More

It’s 11pm and, while you should be in bed, you’re standing in front of the fridge trying to decide a snack of choice before calling it a night. You know this isn’t the best life choice for your waistline, but did you know that it’s also bad for your oral health – especially your braces. Your orthodontic treatment increases the potential to leave food behind on the teeth after eating.

Late Night Snacking Can Lead to Tooth Loss

A 2010 study in Denmark discovered a relationship between midnight snacking and tooth loss. Over a six-year period, a group of over 2,000 adults (8% labeled “nocturnal eaters”) were found to have significantly increased their chances of tooth loss from repeated midnight snacking. Read More

Although diabetes has become a fairly common disease in most recent years, it is still very serious and should be managed properly to avoid damaging effects on the body. These damaging effects include threats to your oral that can greatly influence your orthodontic treatment.

Diabetes and Periodontal (Gum) Disease

The connection between diabetes and periodontal disease is closer than most people think. Did you know that those with diabetes are two times more likely to develop gum disease? For this reason, it is important for people with diabetes to understand its effects and practice good oral hygiene before, during and after orthodontic treatment.

Simply put, periodontal disease (gum disease) is an inflammatory condition affecting the soft tissues and bone surrounding the teeth. It is often caused by a buildup of bacteria infecting the gums and other tissues. Regular brushing and flossing can remove most of those bacteria helping to prevent periodontal disease. While diabetes can increase the chances of getting gum disease, it can also be affected and made worse by the inflammation of periodontal disease. Gum disease in those with diabetes raise their risk for developing things like kidney disease, heart disease and stroke.Read More