Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Good News!


Although we will be closed for Christmas, you can still take advantage of this fantastic rebate offer from Oral-B in the new year. If you were blessed with some Christmas cash and would like to invest in your health, this toothbrush is the perfect gift choice!

Stop by our office after the holidays and we will help you purchase this revolutionary tool that will truly be a gift that will keep on giving throughout the year!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Dr. Clark & Staff



Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Helping Others Helps You




Have you stopped to consider why this particular time of year people are generally more thoughtful, helpful, and even happy? We have been observing people around us recently, and there is something that happens when this special time of year arrives. People start to think about others more than themselves. They purposefully find ways to reach out, serve, and help those around them.

We found an interesting article written by Mike Gonyea entitled, "Importance of Helping Others" that dives into what happens to ourselves, both emotionally and physically when we reach out to help others.

Importance of Helping Others
by Mike Gonyea

Emotional Well-Being
Research led by Dr Suzanne Richards at the University of Exeter Medical School indicates that altruistic behaviors -- those born of an unselfish concern for the welfare of others -- can have a profound effect on a person's emotional well-being. The study shows that helping others improves social interaction, distracts people from their own problems, and improves self-esteem and competence. It even suggests concern for others can allow one to build a "kindness bank" of memories that can be drawn upon well into the future.

Physical Well-Being
While many studies on the positive aspects of altruism deal with emotional well-being, research has also shown that helping others has physical benefits as well. It leads to increased social integration which allows people to lead more active lifestyles. It reduces stress and its associated negative impacts on the body, and it can boost a person's immune system which helps ward off disease. Studies of older people have shown that those who help others live longer, and presumably happier, lives than those who don’t.

Your Brain on Helpfulness
Helping others affects brain chemistry. Scientists have documented the physiological changes that occur in the brain when someone sees the response to their altruistic behavior. A group of economists at the University of Zurich said they have found the sweet spot in the brain associated with altruistic behavior. It appears that variations in the size and activity of a brain region known as the right temporoparietal junction dictates your ability to appreciate the perspectives of others, and it creates the possibility that stimulating it could allow almost anyone to enjoy the many benefits associated with altruistic behavior.

Our challenge to you is to reach out and help someone today. Give your brain the positive benefits it needs, and you might be surprised how a little service actually lifts the heavy burdens we are sometimes called to bear.


Dr. Dennis Clark & Staff

Article Source: http://oureverydaylife.com/importance-helping-others-5513252.html
Photo Source: https://thinklivebepositive.files.wordpress.com/2014/05/helping-others-ws31.jpg

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

We Remember...


Today we pause to reflect upon the devastating bombing of Pearl Harbor. Have you stopped to consider the word "remember" and the significance this word plays in our lives?

As a nation, we honor the lives of those lost. As families, we remember the spirit of giving, love, and service that accompanies this time of year. Sometimes it is easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of life, especially during the busyness that accompanies the holiday season.

May we each take a few moments today to reflect upon the freedoms and blessings that we enjoy because of the ultimate sacrifice given by so many throughout this world's history.

"Remember" is a word that changes the future. When we remember why we have the freedoms we do today, we work harder to preserve them for the future generations. 

We hope today, and especially throughout the remainder of the month each of you remember and reflect upon the goodness of the world around you. Sure, problems abound everywhere, but in the quiet acts of service, goodness pervades society and therein lies true peace. 



Photo Source: https://www.pearlharboroahu.org/images/WeRemember3.jpg

Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Let Us Be Your One Stop Shopping Destination!

The holiday season is upon us and we have to really great gift ideas for you and yours.

This state-of-the-art Oral B toothbrush is a gift that will keep on giving throughout the years to come! You don't want to miss out on this incredible promotion! Call to place your order today before supplies run out.

A customized gift certificate for those "hard to shop for" family members or friends is the perfect answer to your shopping woes. You can determine the service you would like to gift and we will prepare the gift certificate tailored to your specifications. 

Talk about a one-of-a-kind gift idea!


This final gift offer will surely brighten any smile! We have 4-pack Opalescence Go Home Whitening Trays available for purchase. 

These would make a fantastic stocking stuffers or gifts for your office co-workers. 


Make us your one-stop shopping destination this year! We'll take the worry and frustration of finding that perfect gift for the loved ones in your life.

Act quickly, supplies are limited!
541-451-1440

Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Are You on Your To-Do List?


Let's be honest, sometimes as the holiday's approach an unsettling feeling creeps into our lives. We have all felt it, some more than others. October through December can be filled with really fun events, but these months can also bring on stress that is not normally felt throughout the other months of the year. Stress can affect your body in negative ways if not dealt with in constructive ways.

The Mayo Clinic offers 10 tips of sound advice to handle the stresses that can slowly become overwhelming. Getting a head start on those feelings now is your best offense against the hectic days ahead.

Tips to prevent holiday stress and depression

When stress is at its peak, it's hard to stop and regroup. Try to prevent stress and depression in the first place, especially if the holidays have taken an emotional toll on you in the past.
  1. Acknowledge your feelings. If someone close to you has recently died or you can't be with loved ones, realize that it's normal to feel sadness and grief. It's OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can't force yourself to be happy just because it's the holiday season.
  2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out community, religious or other social events. They can offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and broaden your friendships.
  3. Be realistic. The holidays don't have to be perfect or just like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to, and be open to creating new ones. For example, if your adult children can't come to your house, find new ways to celebrate together, such as sharing pictures, emails or videos.
  4. Set aside differences. Try to accept family members and friends as they are, even if they don't live up to all of your expectations. Set aside grievances until a more appropriate time for discussion. And be understanding if others get upset or distressed when something goes awry. Chances are they're feeling the effects of holiday stress and depression, too.
  5. Stick to a budget. Before you go gift and food shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then stick to your budget. Don't try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts.
  6. Try these alternatives:
    • Donate to a charity in someone's name.
    • Give homemade gifts.
    • Start a family gift exchange.
  7. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends and other activities. Plan your menus and then make your shopping list. That'll help prevent last-minute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients. And make sure to line up help for party prep and cleanup.
  8. Learn to say no. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and colleagues will understand if you can't participate in every project or activity. If it's not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.
  9. Don't abandon healthy habits. Don't let the holidays become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your stress and guilt.
    Try these suggestions:
    • Have a healthy snack before holiday parties so that you don't go overboard on sweets, cheese or drinks.
    • Get plenty of sleep.
    • Incorporate regular physical activity into each day.
  10. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh you enough to handle everything you need to do. Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind, slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.
    Some options may include:
    • Taking a walk at night and stargazing.
    • Listening to soothing music.
    • Getting a massage.
    • Reading a book.
  11. Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep, irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores. If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional.

Article Source: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress/art-20047544

Photo Source: f



Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Together We Can


Our nation has seen much turmoil throughout this election period. We are reminded in the Declaration of Independence: 

"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with inherent and inalienable rights; that among these, are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; that to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed; that whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness." --Declaration of Independence as originally written by Thomas Jefferson, 1776. ME 1:29, Papers 1:315

While there is no doubt divisiveness has principally dominated the election cycle, one thing is for certain - we are ONE NATION. As we accept the results of the election, we must keep in mind that it is up to each one of us as citizens of this great nation to come together, to work for the common good of each citizen, and to protect the liberties and freedoms that this nation stands for. 

At this time of year when we give thanks as a people, let us remember to reach out in brotherhood, unity, and service. We live in a nation of great possibilities. As we work together and respect each others' inalienable rights, we will continue the great legacy of freedom this country stands for. 

We thank the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much to give us the privilege of having a voice and a vote.




Photo Source: http://f.tqn.com/y/christianity/1/W/u/l/Founding-Fathers-GettyImages-175406364.jpg
Quote Source: http://famguardian.org/subjects/politics/thomasjefferson/jeff0100.htm

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Gratitude Brings Happiness!

Can It Really Be That Simple?

Do you find yourself as the saying goes “running like a chicken with your head cut off?”  In your quest to “get it all done” do feel like you are coming up short at the end of the day?  If you answered yes, you are not alone.  In fact, the majority of people feel like they will never get to the end of their “to do” lists.  Unfortunately exposing ourselves and our families to this harried pace of life leaves many of us feeling tired, depressed, sick or simply empty.
             
Who wants to feel like that day after day?  As a matter of fact, if we allow ourselves to live in this type of an environment continually it will take it’s toll one way or another.  We have a great suggestion that could be the “Pick Me Up” you need.  It’s Gratitude.  Yes, you read it correctly, GRATITUDE.  Many studies have shown that taking the time to list, ponder upon and express gratitude for your daily blessings can greatly increase your mood, health, and overall wellbeing.

Elizabeth Heubeck, from WebMD, poses the question, “What would happen if we extended the tradition of giving thanks, typically celebrated just once a year during the holiday season, throughout the entire year? Such gratitude would be rewarded with better health, say researchers.”  She goes on to further explore and suggest the impact that gratitude can have in your life.  We encourage you to take a minute to read her insightful article.  You can access the article by clicking on this link:  http://women.webmd.com/features/gratitute-health-boost

Find the GRATITUDE and the HAPPINESS will follow!

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Halloween Safety Tips


It's that time of the year again when little goblins will be running around our neighborhoods. Of course you can expect us to remind you to brush your teeth, and make sure your children do the same, but there are important safety tips that should not be ignored.

Safekids Worldwide published a simple, straightforward article sharing helpful dos and don'ts that we want to pass on. 

Please be safe out there!

HALLOWEEN SAFETY TIPS

Walk Safely

  1. Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
  2. Look left, right and left again when crossing and keep looking as you cross. 
  3. Put electronic devices down and keep heads up and walk, don’t run, across the street.
  4. Teach children to make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.
  5. Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible. Children should walk on direct routes with the fewest street crossings.
  6. Watch for cars that are turning or backing up. Teach children to never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars.

Trick or Treat With an Adult

  1. Children under the age of 12 should not be alone at night without adult supervision. If kids are mature enough to be out without supervision, they should stick to familiar areas that are well lit and trick-or-treat in groups.

Keep Costumes Both Creative and Safe

  1. Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, if possible, choose light colors.
  2. Choose face paint and makeup whenever possible instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision.
  3. Have kids carry glow sticks or flashlights to help them see and be seen by drivers. 
  4. When selecting a costume, make sure it is the right size to prevent trips and falls. 

Drive Extra Safely on Halloween

  1. Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
  2. Take extra time to look for kids at intersections, on medians and on curbs.
  3. Enter and exit driveways and alleys slowly and carefully.
  4. Eliminate any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
  5. Drive slowly, anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on earlier in the day to spot children from greater distances.
  6. Popular trick-or-treating hours are 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. so be especially alert for kids during those hours.


Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Sensitive Teeth Got You Down?

Has this ever happened to you? Have you bit into a favorite cold food and shooting pain in your teeth made you want to jump up and scream? If you have, you are not alone.

Having sensitive teeth here or there is very common, however, the sharp or stabbing pain that can develop from sensitive teeth can become unbearable.

Thankfully you don't need to suffer from this condition permanently. There are things that you can do at home, and that we can help you within our office that can rid your life of this uncomfortable pain for good.

Here is a small infographic found on Google. You will notice that sensitivity can happy anytime during your lifetime. Learning the symptoms early on, and how to prevent the pain, can save you years of painful suffering.

Dr. Clark and our hygienists can talk to you about this condition and provide you solutions that bring the desired results you seek. There is no need to suffer in silence!




Call us today to schedule your exam - 
Put an end to tooth sensitivity!
541-451-1440

Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Use Your Benefits Soon!

Source: http://www.advanceddentistry.org
If someone handed you $1,000 would you use a little bit of it and then throw the rest in the garbage can?

Of course not - right? But the truth is, many Americans leave their hard earned benefits unused and before they know it, the benefits expire.

Please don't let this be you! We would love to sit down with you and review your dental insurance benefits to help you maximize your policy coverage. It is always good to start with the regular preventative care that your policy provides. We can then let you know the coverage amounts you have not utilized this calendar year, and we can tailor your treatment plan to use those dollars wisely before you lose them.

It is our goal to help you successfully use the dental insurance coverage that you have available with each of your dental visits. With careful planning, we can build treatment plans that not only maximize your coverage, but also help you take advantage of the treatments you may not be aware of that are built into your existing policy.

The clock is ticking - 2016 will be over before you know it. Don't throw your benefit money into the trash! You've worked for those benefits, let us help you make the most of them.

Call today to discuss your dental 
insurance coverage today!
541-451-1440

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

National Good Neighbor Day




Today is National Good Neighbor Day. Did you know that? To be honest, we didn't either, but what a great idea!

The greatest part about our office is our wonderful patients. We wouldn't be in business without you. We have met so many amazing people over the years and we wanted to thank each and every one of you for making such a positive contribution not only to our office but to your neighborhoods and communities as well.

Here is a little history about National Good Neighbor Day:


National Good Neighbor Day

Date When Celebrated : Always September 28, previously the Fourth Sunday in September
Ah, Good Neighbor Day. It's definitely a good thing. Being good neighbors is an important part of the social fiber that makes this country so great. Therefore,  it seems only fitting that one day a year honors good neighbors.
This day of recognition is not to be confused with other forms of "Good Neighbor Days". Stores proclaim "Good Neighbor Days" to promote sales, a wide range of organizations announce "Good Neighbor Days" to promote their cause, and local municipalities and governments proclaim "Good Neighbor Days" for a variety of reasons.
Rather, this day is to truly recognize and appreciate your good neighbor. Hopefully, one of those good neighbors is you!

History:
In the early 1970's, Mrs. Becky Mattson from Lakeside, Montana recognized the importance of good neighbors, and started the effort to make this a National day. With the help of congressman Mike Mansfield, she succeed in getting three presidents (Nixon, Ford, and Carter)  to issue proclamations, along with numerous governors. 
In 2003, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution, sponsored by Montana Senator Max Baucus, making September 28, National Good Neighbor Day. Previously, this day was celebrated on the fourth Sunday of September.
 Note: Rhode Island initiated a  movement to pass a National Neighbor Day on the Sunday before Memorial Day. Action never materialized into a formal national proclamation or law.

How to Celebrate:
Here are some suggestions for celebrating the day:
  • Help your neighbors in some way.
  • Offer a smile and friendly hello to your neighbor
  • Have your neighbor over for a meal
  • Hold a block party
  • Get to know your neighbor a little better
So how are you going to celebrate Good Neighbor Day? Find a way to brighten the days of those around you by saying thanks, or performing a small act of service that lets your neighbors know just how much you appreciate them!

Thanks for making a difference in our lives!

Wednesday, September 21, 2016

Gum Recession Surgery Revolutionized!

Have you heard about this new procedure Dr. Clark offers? Gum grafting or gum surgery to repair gum recession can be horribly painful. There is a new, almost painless procedure developed by Dr. Chao that has revolutionized this surgery.

If gum recession is something you struggle with, please speak with Dr. Clark. You will be amazed at your results.  But don't take our word for it! 

We've included some patient testimonial links at the bottom of this blog post. Take a listen, and call today to schedule for consult with Dr. Clark.


Here is a link to our website so you can learn more about this revolutionary solution to gum recession.

http://www.laserdennist.com/services/gum-recession-and-exposed-roots/pinhole-surgical-technique-pst

Call today!
541-451-1440


Thursday, September 8, 2016

Routines Rule!


It's back to school time and the calm mornings of summertime have given way to the chaotic circus which dominates morning routines during the school year. 

Finding the best way to help your family stay calm amidst the chaos can seem undaunting but it is possible. With technology today, ideas are at your fingertips within the world wide web.

In a quick search this morning we found two job charts that could be easily implemented into a family's morning routine that would lessen anxiety, promote organization and accomplishment for all involved. Creating a small incentive such as a prize drawing, extra minutes at the park, or bike riding are great ways to encourage children to do well on their job charts.




Regardless of what works for you in a morning routine, may we emphasize that leaving for school or work with a freshly brushed mouth is a critical component of good oral hygiene.

Removing the plaque that builds up as you sleep each morning gives your teeth another line of defense against the bacteria that will be introduced or incubated in your mouth during the day. Everything you can do to keep your mouth clean will result in fewer cavities, diminished bad breath, and healthier gums.

You want your smile to work for you - make sure you work hard for it by keeping it clean and healthy every day!

Concerns about your smile? 
Call us today:
541-451-1440




Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Jaw Pain Got You Down?

Source: http://oralsurgeonhouston.com/wp-content/uploads/Woman-closed-eyes-Clutching-Jaw-in-pain-199x300.jpg
Can you relate with this picture? Unfortunately, many people suffer needlessly from jaw pain. There are so many factors that can cause jaw pain, many of which you should not ignore.

Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Clark has tools that can help diagnose exactly what is causing your jaw pain. With the proper diagnosis, effective solutions can easily be put into action, and relief is not far away.

Some people are surprised that something as simple as adjusting your bite can make a huge difference. If you are experiencing jaw pain currently, please call our office. A short consultation can help you get back on the path to recovery!

Call to schedule your 
consultation today!
541-451-1440

Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Flossing is All the Buzz!

Source: http://myteethforever.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/tim-loughran-dentistry-floss.jpg
Media outlets around the country, including the New York Times, ran an article yesterday touting that flossing may no longer be necessary. 

The article cites "all flossing may be overrated." The buzz comes from the quiet removal of the instruction to floss daily in the latest dietary guidelines published by the Department of Agriculture and Health and Human Services. This decision came about because the control groups used to show the effectiveness of flossing were not large enough to prove its necessity in preventing oral health problems.

While health professionals agree the control groups should have been larger, and larger studies need to take place, the American Dental Association (ADA) published its own article yesterday stating that "Interdental cleaning is proven to help remove debris between teeth that can contribute to plaque buildup."

The people who consistently choose not to floss may find some justification for their choice with this recent news story, but the reality is those who have developed good oral hygiene habits will continue to floss because the results are visible and tangible, and dentists across the country will continue to tell their patients that flossing is a critical component to their oral health care needs. 

Think of it this way. Every day we take out the trash in our homes, and weekly the city comes to collect that garbage. If food is left behind in a trash can, and it is exposed to the elements, it will begin to rot and smell horrible. The same is true with plaque. If you are not regularly "taking out the trash" or removing debris from hard to reach spots in your mouth, that plaque (which contains 500 species of bacteria by the way) will rot and smell much the same way inside your mouth.

Source: http://www.esteticaa.co.uk/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/estetica-plaque.jpg
The bottom line is keeping your mouth clear of debris through brushing and flossing or using a water flosser, along with regular dental cleanings will result in a happier, healthy mouth. Gingivitis will not set in as quickly, which leads to serious gum disease, and further health problems.

The choice, of course, is yours, but as for our office - we will keep on flossing!

Call us if you have any questions or concerns about this important topic - 
541-451-1440.


Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Pot Use and Gum Disease

A long-term study of approximately 1,000 New Zealanders from birth to the age of 38 has found that people who have smoked marijuana for up to 20 years have more gum disease.

Dr. Clark’s Message: “Please notice the age range of the study was birth to 38 years (the prime of life). We all know that many health problems increase in severity and frequency as the population ages. While this research does not link marijuana to other health problems, there are many studies that link gum disease and the infections and inflammation of gum disease to serious health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis to name a few. To coin a phrase, we might think of gum disease as a "gateway illness."

The article also quotes Madeline Meier, an assistant professor of psychology at Arizona State University and one of the authors of the study, “We don’t want people to think, ‘Hey, marijuana can’t hurt me,’ because other studies on this same sample of New Zealanders have shown that marijuana use is associated with increased risk of psychotic illness, IQ decline, and downward socioeconomic mobility,.”

This study is ongoing and I will be interested to see the results as time goes by.



 Stay safe this summer!

541-451-1440

Wednesday, July 20, 2016

The Clock is Ticking...Back to School is Coming!


We don't want to be the bearer of bad news...but back to school time is just around the corner. Please remember that Oregon law now requires all incoming kindergarten students to have a dental exam. 

Our appointments are filling up rapidly, and we don't want you to be rushed when school starts.


Call us today!
541-451-1440

Listen to one of our great patients about her positive experience with our dental office and team.


Wednesday, July 13, 2016

Special Offer - Don't Miss Out!



Great Savings Just For You!
Our Customized Bleach Trays are on sale!
Only $197! 
These make great gift ideas too!


WHITENING YOUR TEETH

1. Follow Dr. Clark's instructions on how to load gel into your custom bleaching tray. Use no more than 1/3 to 1/2 of the syringe. Too much gel may cause sensitivity.

2. Brush teeth before inserting tray.

3. Lightly tap tray to adapt tray sides to teeth.

4. Wear Opalescence 35% for 30 minutes to one hour.

5. Do not swallow gel or rinsed gel. Product contains peroxide and may contain fluoride; swallowing large amounts can be harmful.

6. Clean tray with soft brush and cool tap water. Store tray in case provided.

Some old alagum or "silver" fillings may leave a dark purple color in your bleaching tray; this is normal.

Crowns, bridges, partial dentures, veneers, and composite fillings will not bleach. 

Store bleach out of the sun and heat. Refrigeration recommended. Do not freeze. 


Call to Order Yours Today!
541-451-1440

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Tooth Fairy Magic



Colgate.com has some fun ideas of how to celebrate the dental milestones your children and grandchildren experience as they grow. 

Losing a tooth, especially that first tooth, is a big milestone in a child's life, so try commemorating the moment with some crafts for the first lost tooth. Ideas such as a memory page with the theme of the first lost tooth work nicely. If you're not the crafting type, don't worry. A simple idea, such as decorating a photo of your child without his tooth, is easy and fun.
Decorating a photo means your child doesn't have to worry about missing out on the tooth fairy's reward and you get a treasured memento of that first lost tooth. Let your little one enjoy decorating the paper around the photo of his missing tooth. Then, either frame the decorated photo or stick it in your scrapbook.
What You Need to Get Started
  • Have your little one give you the biggest, toothy smile possible and snap a picture. Alternatively, get a picture of the tooth in your child's hand or on a small display pillow beside a dime or other small object, for scale.
  • Upload the picture to your computer and print it out in the center of a sheet of standard paper.
  • Grab some colorful markers, glue and iridescent glitter.
  • Write your child's name, age and the date the tooth came out below the picture so everything is ready when you give the craft supplies to your little one.
Decorating the Picture
Get ready to turn your little one's creativity loose.
  1. Give your child some ideas of things to write or draw, such as a motivational saying about the lost tooth, pictures of loose teeth, a colorful toothbrush, a tube of toothpaste or anything tooth-related he feels like drawing.
  2. Make thin glue swirls all the way around the picture's border and then sprinkle the shimmery glitter in the glue.
  3. Allow the glue to dry completely before displaying the keepsake photo.

Call if you have any questions regarding your child's loose teeth.
(541) 451-1440.

Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Soft Drinks = Disaster


Children are consuming ever-greater amounts of soft drinks that could increase their risk for obesity and dental disease, according to the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. The health organizations are recommending that parents urge children to consume nutritious drinks in school and at home.
Children age 6 to 19 consume significantly more ounces of soft drinks each day than milk or juice. Teenage boys and girls are drinking twice as much soft drink as milk and one-third of teenage boys drink at least three cans a day. Consumption of milk, the principle source of calcium in the typical American diet, decreases as soft drinks become a favorite choice for children.
"Sweetened drinks are the primary source of added sugar in the daily diet of children," said Renee Jenkins, M.D., AAP vice president. "Each 12-ounce serving of a carbonated, sweetened soft drink contains the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar. Not only should parents be discouraging their children from drinking soda, but they can set a good example by choosing to drink healthier alternatives themselves."
Dentists have long recognized that good nutrition has a direct link to good oral health, according to Dr. Kimberly Harms, an ADA consumer advisor.
"When teeth come in frequent contact with sweetened soft drinks and other sugar-containing substances, the risk of tooth decay, which is the most common childhood disease, is increased as is the potential for erosion of tooth enamel," Dr. Harms explains. "Kids and teens are more susceptible to decay from soft drinks because their tooth enamel is not fully developed."
School vending machines and some vendor contractual arrangements influence youth consumption patterns and increase soft drink access, say the ADA and AAP. The organizations oppose such arrangements that target children and promote over consumption of soft drinks.
Pediatricians and dentists recommend children choose beverages that hydrate and contribute to good nutrition, such as fruit juice with no sweeteners, low-fat and non-fat white or flavored milk, vegetable juice and water.
In promoting good health, parents are also encouraged to make dental exams a regular part of the back-to-school routine, including completion of all health examinations and necessary immunizations in time for the new school year.
Please contact the ADA if you have questions about this article.
© 2016 American Dental Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or republication is strictly prohibited without the prior written permission from the American Dental Association.
http://www.colgate.com/en/us/oc/oral-health/life-stages/childrens-oral-care/article/ada-08-kids-dental-health?thumbparam=childrens-oral-care/483817227