We Have Winners!

The following patients have won our latest competitions:

Dr. Pang's office won the Pumpkin Carving Contest

Amy won the Halloween colouring contest

Andrea won the Oral Hygiene Competition - great brushing and flossing!

Daniel won the Guess How Many Creatures contest

Good job guys!

Dr. Liss and Cory Liss Orthodontics would like to remind you that competitions run throughout the year, so make sure you check out the latest contests!!

Helping you prepare for cold and flu season, from Cory Liss Orthodontics

Traditionally cold and flu season starts in Fall, but this year it seems to have started much earlier and with the number of patients canceling appointments because of flu and H1N1 symptoms Cory Liss Orthodontics is taking additional precautions to help prevent the spread of germs.

To promote a healthy and clean environment, we give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces.

For the protection of other patients and our staff, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.

Maintaining and protecting oral hygiene equipment is also important this flu season. To protect your toothbrush from bacteria follow these steps:

• Wash your hands before and after brushing
• Allow the brush to air dry after each use, harmful bacteria dies after being exposed to oxygen
• Store the toothbrush in an upright position to allow water to drain and dry faster
• Replace toothbrush after every cold or flu or every 3-4 months when bristles appear worn

Hope this helps! Stay healthy this cold and flu season!

--Dr. Liss and team

Let Dr. Liss know how he's doing!

Whether you have visited Cory Liss Orthodontics for a week or for years, we’d love to hear your feedback about your experience with Dr. Liss or his staff! Now with the Internet, it’s even easier to write your thoughts and share them with the world. We'd want to encourage you to write a review of us. It only takes a moment!

You may write a review here.

Thank you and have a great weekend!

--Dr. Liss and team

Answering all your burning questions about mouthwash

While mouthwash is not an alternative to regular brushing and flossing, it can help keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy. There are several different types of mouthwashes available, and all of them will help do different things for your smile. The most common types of mouthwashes are:

• Fluoride - fluoride is the most used type of mouthwash available, and is used to strengthen the enamel of the teeth while preventing cavities and tooth decay.

• Antiseptic - an antiseptic mouthwash is used to kill bacteria and germs in the mouth. Most commonly used before and after a dental surgery, antiseptic mouthwashes can also help to fight gum disease, and halitosis (chronic bad breath). Antiseptic mouthwashes can affect your sense of taste and may stain the teeth, so it is recommended that you consult your dentist before using this type of mouthwash.

• Combination - a combination mouthwash is designed to help prevent tooth decay, freshen the breath, and maintain the health of your smile.

• Prescription - for patients with gum disease, or any signs of gum disease, you may need a prescription mouthwash. Prescription mouthwashes, like Peridex of PerioGard, are used to treat gingivitis, and other forms of decay.

There are also many different brands of mouthwash. Some common brands include:

• Scope
• Listerine
• Act
• Crest
• Tom’s of Maine (all-natural)
• Plax (anti-plaque rinse)
• Breath Rx
• Orajel
• Targon (special mouthwash made for smokers)
• Rembrandt (whitening mouthwash)


If you are curious about which kind of mouthwash would work best for you, be sure to ask Dr. Liss at your next appointment. If you have a favorite mouthwash, let us know by posting a comment for others to read!

Softly Brushing Your Way to Clean Teeth

Just as there are so many different types of toothbrushes to choose from, each brush also has a different type of bristle! There are generally three different types of bristles; hard, medium, and soft. We always recommend that our patients, especially children and seniors, use a soft bristled toothbrush.

Using a hard and medium bristled brush can actually harm your teeth and gums by stripping the enamel from the teeth and irritating the gums so that they become red and sore, and can even cause gum recession. If you do use a hard or medium bristled brush as a personal preference, we recommend using an electric toothbrush.

Soft bristles are much gentler on your teeth and gums, and while patients of all ages are recommended to use soft bristled brushes, they are particularly great for children, seniors, patients recovering from a dental procedure, and patients wearing braces.

Soft bristles, and even extra-soft bristles are every bit as effective when it comes to cleaning your teeth; in fact, if you currently use a hard or medium bristled brush, try a soft bristled brush next time you buy a toothbrush and we bet you won’t even notice a difference!

--Cory Liss Orthodontics

National Dental Hygiene Month

Did you know that October is National Dental Hygiene Month? Fall is here, and Halloween is coming soon, but now it is more important than ever to maintain good oral hygiene.

All those sweet, sour and sticky candies may taste great, but these treats can damage your teeth and braces too! Did you know sour candies can be acidic to your teeth, and actually wear down the enamel that protects them? This can cause tooth decay and cavities! After eating these candies, be sure to wash your mouth out with water, drink milk or eat a few slices of cheese. These will help neutralize the acid in your mouth (wait at least one hour before brushing your teeth with toothpaste, as this can actually increase the effects of acid on your teeth)

Besides cavities and tooth decay, many people do not realize that good oral health and hygiene are important to your overall health too! Research is discovering the connection between periodontal disease and other major health concerns, such as heart disease! Therefore, it is important to maintain a good oral hygiene routine: see your dentist every six months, brush and floss daily and use an antibacterial mouthwash.

Make a resolution to improve your oral health for October, the National Dental Hygiene Month!

--Dr. Liss

Invisalign Tips

Many people know that Invisalign is a great solution to braces if you don't want to experience the look and feel of traditional metal braces. What few people know, though, is that just like traditional braces, Invisalign requires proper care to work effectively. Good oral hygiene is highly important, even when you are wearing something in your mouth that you can take out to eat with. It's still likely that your aligners can build up plaque if not treated properly. When wearing your Invialign aligners, ask yourself the following questions:

1.) Am I eating with my aligners on? - These aligners are removable and should be taken out when you eat.
2.) Am I drinking anything other than water with my aligners on? - Though it's not a necessity for you to take out your aligners while you drink, think about how sticky a soda is. If you take out your aligners when drinking a soda, you have a better chance of keeping your aligners clean.
3.) Am I brushing before putting the trays on? - The aligners have both an inside and outside. Keeping the outside clean is easy. Keeping the inside clean is also easy: just make sure you've brushed your teeth before putting the trays on.

These are all very simple steps, and ultimately, they help to keep you building good oral habits.

--Dr. Cory Liss

Imagining Your Life With Invisalign

Are you wondering what Invisalign treatment is really like, and what effect it will have on your day-to-day activities? Will it slur your speech? Will people know you're in treatment? You're not alone in your concerns! Following are a list of questions and answers for anyone pondering Invisalign treatment.

How exactly does Invisalign work?

Using 3-D computer imaging technology, Invisalign creates a series of custom-made, clear aligners exclusively for your teeth, based on the treatment plan that we specify for you. Each aligner moves teeth incrementally and is worn for about two weeks, then replaced by the next in the series until the final position is achieved.

Will I experience pain during treatment?

Most people experience temporary discomfort for a few days after a new aligner is placed. This feeling of pressure is normal and is a sign that Invisalign is working by sequentially moving your teeth to their final destination.

Can other people see that I'm in treatment?

One of the benefits of Invisalign is that the aligners are clear. You can straighten your teeth without anyone knowing.

Can I smoke during treatment?

We discourage smoking while wearing the aligners as they may become discolored.

Are there any foods I cannot eat while in treatment?

You can eat normally during the entire course of treatment. One of the advantages of Invisalign is that the aligners are removable. Simply take the aligners out before each meal, brush when you're finished eating, then reinsert the aligners afterward.

What about chewing gum?

We recommend removing your aligners for all meals and snacks, as gum and other chewy substances can stick to the aligners.

How often must I wear my aligners?

Aligners should be worn all day, except when eating, brushing, and flossing.

Will my speech be affected by the aligners?

As with any orthodontic treatment, aligners may temporarily affect your speech. If this does happen, your tongue will adjust within a day or two and your speech should return to normal.

How can I clean my aligners?

The best way to clean your aligners is by brushing and rinsing them in lukewarm water.

How often must I visit your office during treatment?

For most patients, visits every 4-6 weeks are frequent enough for us to determine that your treatment is progressing properly. Dr. Cory Liss will provide you with a specific schedule that supports your individual treatment plan.

SureSmile in Calgary, Alberta

When you visit our office, not only will you receive the same exceptional treatment and service we always offer, but you will have the chance to take advantage of our advanced orthodontic technologies. We are pleased to offer the SureSmile® technology. What could be better?

SureSmile® is the most sophisticated technology available to traditional orthodontic treatment. The advanced digital technology is what separates the SureSmile® System from conventional orthodontics. By utilizing customized arch wires, SureSmile® can deliver:

* Shorter Treatment Times

* Fewer Office Visits

* Less Overall Discomfort

How is this possible? With SureSmile® orthodontics, our assistants use a handheld oral scanner to capture 3-D images that allow Dr. Liss to build a precise 3-D computer model of your teeth. Treatment planning occurs on the computer where Dr. Liss maps out your entire treatment and designs ideal positions for your teeth.

With this information, Dr. Liss determines the most efficient way to move your teeth to create the desired result. Your wires are then bent utilizing a robotic mechanism that creates the perfect movement to create your winning smile.

SureSmile In Action!

We've blogged about SureSmile before, but today, we wanted to show it to you in action! Check out exactly how exciting it is when the expertise and experience of Dr. Liss meets the precision of a robot:

Understanding Cavities From Cory Liss Orthodontics

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit the dentist is Cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do they happen? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily
• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)
• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink
• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

--Dr. Cory Liss

Cory Liss Orthodontics Around the Web

If you've ever visited us at Cory Liss Orthodontics, you already know that we love connecting with our patients. We love the ability to communicate with all of you online too! Besides our web site and our blog, Dr. Liss is on many other networks too!

* Share a video with us, or watch one of ours on YouTube

* Become a "fan" of Cory Liss Orthodontics on Facebook

* View and comment on our photos on MySpace

See you around the web!

--Cory Liss Orthodontics

Summer Fun with Cory Liss Orthodontics!

Its summer here at Cory Liss Orthodontics, a season full of vacations, adventures and great memories. Whether you are headed on a trip, a camping trip, or just having fun in the sun, we want to hear about it! Leave a comment on our blog and tell us about your summer!

Happy Travels,

-From Cory Liss Orthodontics

A Patient Testiominal for Cory Liss Orthodontics

We just received quite a wonderful, heartfelt letter from a patient who wanted to show their appreciation of Cory Liss Orthodontics, and we wanted to share it with you:

Dr. Liss,

‘Thanks’ only begins to express the appreciation I feel for the treatment, friendly service and professional manner that you, and your staff, always displayed during my treatment. I am driven to write and express what a huge impact your work has had on me.

Orthodontic treatment was not even a consideration in my youth. So, I dealt with the shame of my crooked teeth with a closed mouth. Initially, the joy and excitement of having my braces removed was certainly due to the physical restraint, but I was not prepared for the psychological relief that was about to happen to me. I noticed the remarkable difference (even with braces on) straight teeth were having on my life.

Dr. Liss, you have always been humble in your role in my treatment, insisting that is has been due to ‘my’ hard work, but you must accept my sincere thanks for making such a huge difference in my life.

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Paul W.

Is Invisalign® Really Customized for Each Patient? From Dr. Liss

Yes, it is, and that’s part of what makes it work. To find out if you are the right candidate for Invisalign treatment, the first thing we do at Cory Liss Orthodontics is to take an impression of your teeth as they are now and digitize it. Using special software, we look at the current positioning of your teeth and compare it to the way your teeth should look.

Next we use special software to map out the exact path your teeth will take from the beginning of your treatment to the end. Based on the results, a set of custom aligners are created just for your teeth. Throughout the course of treatment, you will be required to wear these clear, removable aligners one at a time; each one moving your teeth closer and closer to their final, perfectly aligned position. And since the aligners are virtually invisible, nobody around you will even know you are wearing braces!

Dr. Liss is a certified Invisalign provider. If you have questions about Invisalign, or would like to find out if you are a candidate for Invisalign treatment, give us a call at 403.287.0746.

Everybody Benefits from Braces! Cory Liss Orthodontics

Braces aren’t just for pre-adolescents and teenagers anymore! Anyone, at any age, can benefit from orthodontic care; whether it is correcting a problem not treated in your younger years, or catching a problem early.

To ensure the best overall treatment, we recommend that children receive an orthodontic consultation as early as age seven. If a problem is evident, taking action early can spare a lot of treatment and expense down the road.

If you never received orthodontic treatment when you were young, don’t worry! You’re never too old for a beautiful smile. Set up an appointment at Cory Liss Orthodontics for a consultation and find out how adult orthodontics will transform your smile, and your life!

--Dr. Cory Liss

Bottled Water May Be Behind Tooth Troubles

We at Cory Liss Orthodontics want you to know that as more families turn to bottled water and away from the tap, they may be missing out on one important ingredient that most brands of bottled water fail to include: fluoride!

Bottled water is becoming increasingly popular in Canada over the past decade, and though it is regulated by the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations, bottled water manufacturers are not not required to include fluoride. Many dental health specialists point to bottled water’s increased popularity as the culprit behind rising rates of cavities.

Because fluoride helps strengthen teeth, it is an important component of maintaining good oral health. The benefits of fluoride were noticed in the early part of the twentieth century, when researchers found communities with low levels of tooth decay. It turned out that these towns had measurable levels (around 1 part per million) of fluoride in their drinking water.

Fluorinated tap water is used across Canada, and around 40% of Canadians have fluoride in their tap water. Fluoride concentrations in these communities is typically 0.8 to 1.0 mg/L. Health Canada, the Canadian Public Health Association, the Canadian Dental Association and the Canadian Medical Association endorse both community water fluoridation and the use of fluoride-containing products as a safe means of preventing tooth decay. Between tap water and toothpaste, most of us get sufficient amounts of fluoride.

But if your family avoids fluoridated tap water in favor of ever-more-popular bottled water, you could be missing out on the levels of fluoride necessary to make a difference in your oral health. If bottled water is your water of choice, check the label to make sure that your brand contains fluoride.

Of course, simply drinking fluoridated water is not a magic ticket to perfect teeth. To keep your choppers in tip-top shape, it’s important to brush and floss daily and avoid sugary sweets, in addition to maintaining your fluoride intake and visiting us at Cory Liss Orthodontics regularly.

Cardiodontics: The Heart Mouth Connection

If you have been told you have periodontal disease (also known as gum disease or periodontitis), you're not alone. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease! Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious disease that results in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. In the worst cases, teeth are lost.

Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Research is also pointing to health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth. So we at Cory Liss Orthodontics want to let you know some interesting facts and ways to treat the disease.

What is Periodontal Disease?

"Perio" means around, and "dontal" refers to teeth. Periodontal disease is an infection of the structures around the teeth, including the gums and the bones that hold the teeth. The earliest stage of periodontal disease is gingivitis – an infection of the gums. In more severe forms of the disease, all of the tissues are involved, including the bone. Bacteria that live and reproduce on the teeth and gums cause periodontal disease.

Symptoms of Periodontal Disease

Symptoms may include the following:
--redness or bleeding of gums while brushing teeth or using dental floss
--halitosis, or bad breath
--gum recession, resulting in apparent lengthening of teeth
--"pockets" between the teeth and gums indicating that the bone which holds the teeth in the mouth is dissolving
--loose teeth
Gum inflammation and bone destruction are largely painless. Hence, people may wrongly assume that painless bleeding after teeth cleaning is insignificant, although this may be a symptom of progressing periodontitis. If your hands bled when you washed them, you would be concerned. Yet, many people think it's normal if their gums bleed when they brush or floss.

Periodontal Disease Affects Your Health

Periodontal disease is a putrid, festering infection of the mouth. Bacteria and inflammatory particles can enter the bloodstream through ulcerated and bleeding gums and travel to the heart and other organs. In recent years, gum disease has been linked to a number of health problems. Researchers are studying possible connections between gum disease and:
--Heart disease: Gum disease may increase the risk of heart disease. Gum disease also is believed to worsen existing heart disease.
--Stroke: Gum disease may increase the risk of the type of stroke caused by blocked arteries
--Diabetes: People with diabetes and periodontal disease may be more likely to have trouble controlling their blood sugar than diabetics with healthy gums.
--Premature births: A woman who has gum diseases during pregnancy may be more likely deliver her baby too early and the infant may be more likely to be of low birth weight.

Combating Periodontal Disease

--See your dentist! See your dentist every six months for a checkup! Regular professional cleanings and checkups make you feel good, look good, and could be a lifesaver!
--Brush and floss daily. Take your time and do it right!
--Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash. Daily use of an anti-bacterial mouthwash helps to disinfect the teeth and gums, and reduces the number of bacteria.
--Straighten your teeth. Crowded teeth are nearly impossible to keep clean. Orthodontic treatment can greatly reduce inflammation and periodontal disease.

--Cory Liss Orthodontics

Patient Testimonials About Cory Liss Orthodontics

Cory Liss Orthodontics provides exceptional treatment in a caring and fun environment for all of their patients. Just hear what a few of them had to say!

Cory Liss Orthodontics has a very friendly atmosphere that makes our daughter feel at ease. Plus having seen the results on my nephew, it wasn't a hard choice as to where she would go for work.
--Jay M.

Dr. Liss takes the time to explain the plan and he doesn't mind questions! He has a great way to communicate with a kid/teenager. I like the office personnel (Erin) and the dental assistant who are very friendly and helpful!
--Barbara B.

Dr. Liss is very friendly and great with our daughter. He is also very good at explaining things and making her feel ok with it.
--Janice B.

The entire office and dental staff are very easy going and approachable. The added benefits such as the patient login, the coffee, tooth brushing and the bonus points are a great idea. Dr. Liss is very easy to talk to and has a very gentle down to earth manner.
--Liz W.

On the first appointment, the course of action was thoroughly explained and the assistant was excellent in getting our daughter to cooperate for the impression after 3 tries!
--Doug B.

SureSmile Now At Cory Liss Orthodontics!

We at Cory Liss Orthodontics are excited that we now offer SureSmile! The SureSmile orthodontic system is a revolutionary technology that allows faster treatment times with fewer visits and less discomfort!

Let us show you how it works.

SureSmile uses the latest in 3D diagnostic imaging to create customized archwires that fit your teeth. There is a robotic arm that bends the archwires exactly, so there is no room for human error!

Because the wires are customized for your mouth, they require fewer adjustments. This means substantially fewer visits and about a 35% shorter treatment time than traditional braces.

So, if you think SureSmile might be right for you or a loved one, watch this video of patients reviewing their experiences and give us a call today at Cory Liss Orthodontics to come in for a consultation. We want to see you smile.