A Thankful Thanksgiving

by Jim Rohn

You may be wondering why I would call this article a Thankful Thanksgiving. Aren't all Thanksgivings Thankful? Unfortunately, no. As a person who has experienced over 70 Thanksgivings, I recognize that being thankful is something that we have to work at, even on Thanksgiving.

If your home is like most, your Thanksgiving Day will be very busy, with either traveling to where you want to go or preparing your home to have others over for the day. Either way, that can be very hectic and emotionally trying, which doesn't lend itself to preparing your heart to be reflective and thankful. In fact, Thanksgiving weekend is the most traveled weekend in America. Airports are full and not always providing much room for contemplation of your good fortune.

This means all the more that if we want to be the kind of people who are characterized by thankfulness, then we must make sure that we focus on it, and not just on Thanksgiving Day, but at all times during the year.

Here are a few key words as well as some thoughts that are simple and practical to apply; something you can use right away in your quest for becoming more thankful:

Time. Set aside time regularly to be quiet, to reflect. We live in the fastest paced time ever. From the moment we awake to the moment we collapse into bed, we have the opportunity to go at full speed and never slow down. If we schedule time every day in which we can be quiet and reflect, we will free our hearts and minds up from the tyranny of the urgent and rushed.

Thought. Give thought to the many blessings that you have. Living in a consumer culture, most of us are fully aware of what we do not have and how we absolutely must have "it". But how often do we reflect upon that which we already have? Take some time each day and think of one or two things that you have that you may typically take for granted and then take a moment and give thanks for those. In fact, I make it a part of my reflection time to review a list of things that I'm thankful for.

Generosity. Be generous toward those with less and not envious of those with more. We tend to look at others who may be wealthier than ourselves and think, "I sure wish I had what he does." That kind of thinking breeds envy and jealousy rather than contentment. What can we do to break that cycle? I would suggest being generous to those who are less fortunate than yourself. Go to work at a food bank. And not just during the holidays - everybody works there then - but on a regular basis during the year. That will remind you of how good you really have it.

Ask. Ask a friend what they are thankful for. The next time you are at lunch with a friend, ask him or her what they are most thankful for. You will be amazed at the answers you receive and you will create a meaningful bond with your friends as you focus on this powerful question.

Acknowledge. Lastly, tell those you love how thankful you are for having them in your life. So many times we neglect to take the time to craft the words to express to those closest to us what their presence in our lives means to us. Take the opportunity of Thanksgiving Day to write them a note or sometime during the day put your hand on their shoulder, look them in the eyes and tell them. Let them know what they mean to you, and in return you'll begin to create the possibility of deeper, richer, more fulfilling relationships with those you love.

Of course we should do what we can to make the most of the day we call Thanksgiving, but wouldn't it be a shame if the only time we reflected on our blessings was that one Thursday in November? And the answer is, of course! So let's do our best to be aware of the many great gifts that we have each and every day of the year. As we do so we will see our hearts soar and our minds will experience more and more at peace as we regularly remember and remain aware of our good fortune.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Vail Valley Partnership announces Success Award finalists

Daily Staff Report
Newsroom@vaildaily.com
Vail, CO, Colorado

The Vail Valley Partnership this week announced the finalists for the Eighth Annual Success Awards, which help recognize outstanding Vail Valley businesses as nominated by their peers in the business community.

“The nominating committee had their work cut out for them, with over 40 nominees throughout the six award categories,” Vail Valley Partnership Executive Director Chris Romer said. “All nominees should be thrilled to have been recognized by their peers and on behalf of the nominating committee and the Partnership, we extend our congratulations to all the finalists.”

The finalists are:

Non-profit of the Year:
• The Youth Foundation.
• Vail Valley Charitable Fund.
• Walking Mountains (Gore Range) Natural Science School.

Business of the Year:
• Kelly Liken Restaurant,
• Resort Technology Partners.
• Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa.

Small Business of the Year:
• Crazy Mountain Brewery.
• Human Resources Plus.
• Vail Valley Dental Care.

Entrepreneur of the Year:
• Kelly Liken, Kelly Liken Restaurant.
• Kevin Selvy, Crazy Mountain Brewery.
• Lauren Merrill, Alpine Arts Center.

Green Business of the Year:
• Eagle Valley Alliance for Sustainability.
• Organic Housekeepers.
• Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa.

Corporate Citizenship Award:
• Evans Chaffee Construction.
• United Way.
• Vail Valley Medical Center.

The non-profit of the year will be announced in early December. )ther award categories are announced at the Annual Gala and Vail Valley Success Awards. The Vail Marriott Mountain Resort & Spa will host the 8th Annual Gala and Vail Valley Success Awards Feb. 4.

http://www.vaildaily.com/article/20101118/BIZ/101119822&parentprofile=search

Got Benefits?

Employers and other plan's sponsors offer dental benefits for a variety of reasons, including promotion of oral health, attraction, and retention of employees.

Regardless of why the plan is offered, its intent is the same: to help individuals by paying for a portion of the cost of their dental care.

Tips on Getting the Most from Your Dental Benefits
1.  Read your dental benefits booklet.
2.  Know your options. Be familiar with limitations and exclusions set by the employer's policy. Remember, you and your dentist need to decide the treatment that is best for you no matter what insurance covers.
3.  Communicate with your dentist, employer and insurance company. Your benefits office needs to know how your plan is working.
4.  Practice good oral hygiene. Good dental health is your responsibility.
5.  Use your benefits! Some plans even have improved coverage if you maintain regular visits for observation and care.

Did you know that you could actually save hundreds of dollars by using your dental benefits before the end of the year?

 
While some dental insurance plans run on a fiscal year, most run on a calendar year. If your dental insurance plan is on a calendar year.
The yearly maximum is the most money that the dental insurance plan will pay for your dental work within one full year. This amount varies by insurance company, but the average is around $1,000 per year, per person. The yearly maximum usually renews every year (on January 1 if your plan is on a calendar year). If you have unused benefits, these will not rollover.

Valley Valley Dental Care is a Preferred Provider for:

Vail Resorts

Vail Valley Medical Center



Guardian Dental Plans



Chilean mine disaster prompts experts to promote the importance of good oral hygiene

For the first 17 days of their enslavement, the 33 Chilean miners were unable to conduct basic dental care, which has resulted in some developing gum disease.This has prompted dental experts to promote the importance of good oral hygiene.

According to some oral experts, many factors contributed to the miners' poor dental health, which included nutrition, stress and cigarettes. Therefore, one of the first priorities that the men faced was to receive a full oral exam that removed plaque in their mouths, in hopes that it would restore the health of their gums and further prevent the progress of gum disease.

The experts also encouraged many people to take their own oral health precautions and look for the symptoms of gum disease. Sore, bleeding or swollen gums are all warning signs of this problem. Receding gums, also a sign of gum disease, may even cause teeth to become loose or fall out.

Approximately 12 percent of adults in the U.S. may suffer from gum disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fortunately, there are low-cost, affordable ways in which individuals can seek dental care to improve their oral hygiene.

Chilean mine disaster prompts experts to promote the importance of good oral hygiene

Happy Birthday X-rays

Google celebrates the 115th anniversary of x-rays

We've come a long way in 115 years.  Digital x-rays make things easier, faster, safer, and more comfortable for the patient.  From WebMD:

There's a newer dental X-ray technique that your dentist already may be using or may soon be using. It's called digital imaging. Instead of developing X-ray film in a dark room, the X-rays are sent directly to a computer and can be viewed on screen, stored, or printed out. There are several nice benefits of using this new technology including:

• The technique uses less radiation than the typical X-ray and there is no wait time for the X-rays to develop -- the images are available on screen a few seconds after being taken.
• The image taken, of a tooth for example, can be enhanced and enlarged many times it's actual size on the computer screen, making it easier for your dentist to show you where and what the problem is. 
• If necessary, images can be electronically sent to another dentist or specialist -- for instance, for a second opinion on a dental problem -- to determine if a specialist is needed, or to a new dentist (if you move).

 

 

Dentist Saved Hilary Duff’s Wedding Day

Singer Hilary Duff broke some tooth-related news on a recent episode of The Ellen Degeneres Show. The 23-year-old pop star described how she bit into a bagel on the morning of her wedding day and lost a tooth.

The day was saved by her wedding planner’s sister’s husband, a dentist.

Now that is a cosmetic dentistry disaster artfully averted!

It's also somewhat funny that the sweetheart pop star would be the one to lose a tooth (well, presumably Duff meant she lost a dental crown) on that special day, when the groom is a hockey player, of all things.

Access Hollywood Report

Notes from a trained observer…

By Jack Stephens

My job is to visit dental offices where procedures are underway. I observe. That’s a big part of my job. I’m a trained observer. Then, I gather what I hear and see and put into a report virtually anyone can read and understand. I’m hired many times because the doctor wants to make changes and improvements.

You’d be amazed at what I see. Or, then again, maybe you wouldn’t be.

Let me give you an idea: Shag carpet from 1975. Stained floors and walls. Unkept restrooms. Red décor. Old furnishings that should have been retired years before. I could go on and on.

You have to wonder, “Is the doctor really up-to-par on recent innovations and advancements in dentistry if they’re hesitant to keep things up?”

It’s a valid question.

On occasion, I also manage to accidentally overhear patients instructing the dentist or the hygienist when they think they should be seen. Usually the conversation goes like this, “I don’t want to have an exam two-times a year. My physician said once time is enough.”

Your physician? Huh? Since when did they spend 4 years and hundreds and hundreds of hours of ongoing continuing education specializing in oral health? Pretty sure, never.

That’s like a dentist giving you advice on cardiology and heart disease.

(I’m not even a dentist – just someone that has seen first-hand what can happen to someone that “skips” appointments or sets their own re-care schedule!)

Did you know oral cancer (cancer of the mouth) is normally only detected by dentists and hygienists?

That means since more than 50% of Americans don’t see the dentist, 50% of our country will never know they have or at high-risk of developing a severely painful and tough-to-treat disease.

And, pulling all your teeth probably isn’t the best solution. Sadly, sometimes, it’s the only one. Being “edentulous” or without teeth, poses its own unique set of undesirable health problems.

Here’s another one I’ve overhead more than once: “Periodontal disease? My teeth are fine. The bleeding stops by mid-morning. I don’t have any disease. That’s hogwash.”

According to the website, www.answers.com, 80% of Americans have gum disease (Periodontal Disease). If you know 10 people, chances are, 8 will have gum disease. EIGHT!

Bottom line: If you choose to skip your bi-annual exams, you put yourself at risk. If you choose to ignore regular cleanings or, for someone already “perio involved” (they have the disease) ignore your SRP visit (that means, perio scaling and root planing), you’re putting yourself further at-risk for bigger, body-wide or systemic problems.

For the price of a dinner out at Olive Garden, you can find out what kind of health your mouth is in. It’s likely the best investment you’ll ever make. Don’t ignore your oral health. It can be a silent killer.

Why the “silent killer?” According to the ADA: “It is possible to have periodontal disease and have no warning signs. That is one reason why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are very important.”

Call today. Don’t wait. You health has be to a top priority.

Dental Tips for Looking Younger

Tried-and-true brushing and flossing can help you hold on to your good looks longer.

By Katrina Woznicki

 Your mouth is more than just a pretty smile. It's also a gateway to your overall health. Keeping that gateway clean may keep you healthier longer -- and looking younger.

 “Just as white, straight teeth convey youth, a smile with crooked, discolored, worn, or missing teeth is associated with an aged look,” says Edmond Hewlett, DDS, professor of restorative dentistry at UCLA's School of Dentistry. “The adage ‘long in the tooth,’ used to describe older persons, reflects the fact that gum disease causes gums to recede and teeth to appear longer as a result."

Keeping a youthful mouth comes down to two simple, proven, and practical steps:

• Brush and floss daily
• See your dentist every six months

“Taking the time to brush and floss is what’s needed," says Anthony M. Iacopino, DMD, PhD, dean of the dentistry faculty at Canada's University of Manitoba, professor of restorative dentistry, and an American Dental Association spokesman. "Brushing, flossing, and going to the dentist is so easy to do, it’s not expensive, and everyone should be doing it.”

What's Stopping You?

“Folks don’t take [oral health] seriously,” says Samuel Low, DDS, MS, president of the American Academy of Periodontology and professor emeritus of periodontology at the University of Florida.

“They take their looks seriously and the smile is a priority, but people don’t think about their gums. Brushing takes time, and flossing is one of the most difficult habits. Only 25% of people floss and I don’t think people see the benefits," says Low, who estimates that it takes two to three minutes per day to floss properly, but "these days, people are crunched for time.” Low is a stockholder in Florida Probe Corporation, a dental technology company.

Looks aside, there's another reason to make time for dental care. If you don't, it could affect your health.

Inflammation, Periodontal Disease

Inflammation can happen when bacteria and debris, such as bits of food, enter the blood vessels around the teeth. Inflammation is your body's response to such invaders. And if it happens over and over again, you could wind up with long-term (chronic) inflammation.

"The mouth is one of the major contributors to high levels of inflammation in the body," says Iacopino, who has consulted for Colgate and Johnson & Johnson.

Chronic inflammation is linked to chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease. It's not clear if the inflammation causes those diseases or is a marker of some other cause. But either way, it's not a good sign.

Then there's periodontal disease, which affects 80% of Americans. It's caused by extensive bacterial buildup along the gums and teeth. Periodontal disease is the top cause of tooth loss.

Bacterial buildup, inflammation, tooth decay, and periodontal disease happen quietly and slowly. That's why so many people don't know it's happening.

When done consistently and correctly, brushing and flossing reduce bacteria or plaque buildup. That helps prevent inflammation and gum disease.

Stained Teeth

Smoking and drinking, particularly red wine and coffee, can stain your teeth and affect how old you look.

Tooth whitening -- over-the-counter and in dentists' offices -- has become increasingly popular in the U.S. and is often marketed as a way to look and feel younger.

Experts say although artificial whitening can temporarily improve a smile, you still need consistent brushing, flossing, and routine dental care to have a lasting impact on how well you age.

Of course, you need to do more than brush, floss, and see your dentist to stay young. Your entire lifestyle matters. "If you want to slow down your aging clock, getting enough sleep, a healthy diet, exercise, and keeping down your levels of inflammation are all key,” Iacopino says.

Hewett agrees. “The fact remains that there are no shortcuts to getting and staying healthy, and oral health is no exception," he says.

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/dental-tips-for-looking-younger?src=RSS_PUBLIC

Preschool children with tooth decay more likely to be obese

Preschool children with tooth decay may be more likely to be overweight or obese than the general population and, regardless of weight, are more likely to consume too many calories, a new study indicates. The results will be presented Saturday at The Endocrine Society's 92nd Annual Meeting in San Diego.


"Poor eating habits may play a role in both tooth decay and obesity in preschoolers," the study's lead author, Kathleen Bethin, MD, PhD, said.

"Dental decay is the most common chronic disease of childhood, and obesity in youth is a growing problem. To prevent these problems, the dentist's office may be an important place to educate families about nutrition," said Bethin, a pediatrician at Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo and an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Buffalo in New York

More:  http://www.news-medical.net/news/20100623/Preschool-children-with-tooth-decay-more-likely-to-be-obese-Study.aspx

Canker sores: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Canker sores are a common nuisance that will affect most people at some point in their lives. Also known as aphthous ulcers or "mouth ulcers," canker sores appear as oral lesions on your tongue, palate or the inside of your cheeks. As they only affect the interior of your mouth, your friends won't be able to see them -- but you'll know they're there. Shallow and circular in appearance, these small, painful sores appear white or gray at the center with a surrounding red border, and they are extremely sensitive to the touch.

Women are more likely than men to experience canker sores, but the first symptoms don't usually occur until after the age of 10.

For most of us, mouth ulcers only occur occasionally, experiencing simple canker sores several times a year. These lesions are usually less than 1 cm in diameter, and will usually heal within 2 weeks. But others may find themselves a victim of complex canker sores, which are often larger in appearance, occur more frequently and take longer to heal.

A Sore Subject
No one quite knows how or why we get canker sores, although scientists have distinguished several factors that can trigger an outbreak. Stress, acidic foods and certain drugs are thought to cause a canker sore to flare up. Mouth irritations, such as biting the inside of your cheek or wearing dental braces, may cause you to experience more frequent outbursts as well. In some cases, a vitamin deficiency, problems with the immune system or gastrointestinal tract, or even hormonal changes can launch a canker sore into action!

Canker sores are more than a minor abrasion. They often cause mouth pain, ranging from mild discomfort to sharp, stinging sensations. You may know you're getting a canker sore if you notice a tingling or burning feeling in the area of your mouth that's affected. Once canker sores appear, they are vulnerable to outside elements. Sufferers of cankers sores have difficulty eating, drinking and even talking during an outbreak!

The good news is that unlike cold sores, canker sores are not caused by a virus and therefore are not contagious. While cold sores appear as blisters on the lips and surrounding areas of the face, canker sores only appear inside the mouth and aren't noticeable.

Canker Sores: Treatment and Prevention

There's no real cure for canker sores, and they often heal on their own. But if you're experiencing discomfort during an outbreak, there are several over-the-counter and prescription remedies you can use to ease the discomfort and speed up healing. Certain mouthwashes and ointments may assist in decreasing the pain, but they only provide limited relief. Your best bet for battling canker sores is to avoid the possible causes, including limiting acidic foods and practicing excellent oral hygiene, which helps prevent irritation.

If you experience extreme pain, large mouth ulcers or several canker sores at once, you may want to get your condition checked out. Oral lesions that continuously reoccur or last more that three weeks should also warrant a professional opinion. A dentist can prescribe medications to control the pain and help you determine the possible causes. In extreme cases, a dentist may also test the area to rule out other diseases, such as oral cancer.

http://www.1800dentist.com/Default.aspx?DN=0d6eaf2a-c330-451e-b50f-7352a0d8d04e

How to Have a Pain and Anxiety Free Dental Experience

Most dental patients experience dental anxiety and can usually trace their fear of dentists to painful and unpleasant past experiences. There are others who seem to sense helplessness and a loss of control while they are sitting in a dentist’s chair.

Yet others are simply intimidated by the sounds, sights, and smells of a dentist office. Regardless of the reason, your dental misgivings should not prevent you from making the necessary dental appointments.

A good dentist will do everything in his power to make your dental experience a comfortable one and will usually understand the importance of communicating with his patients. Communication is the key to effectively easing dental tension. There are other methods including mild sedatives and relaxation techniques.

The best and easiest way to overcome your fear of dentists is to simply find a dentist you trust who has a comfortable, friendly office that puts you at ease. You should share your concerns with your dentist and tell him how you feel and what it is about going to the dentist that intimidates you.

Your dentist is trained in the art of handling fearful dentistry patients and can work with you to modify your treatments and administer the most comfortable and pain free dental care that is possible. Your dentist will be sensitive to your needs and try to make each appointment an anxiety free dental experience.

It’s also of paramount importance for you to communicate your medically history accurately to your dentist. Your medical history should include your health conditions, allergies, and medications which will enable the dentist to only administer the most appropriate and safest treatment possible for your dental requirements.

Your family dentist can help you to achieve the most pain free and anxiety free dental experience that is possible by the use of gentle treatments and techniques. If you have a fear of dentists, ask your dentist to explain the dental procedure to you prior to it being performed. You should both agree on a signal that you can use, such as raising your hand, to indicate to him that you are feeling overwhelmed or are experiencing pain so that your dentist will know to stop immediately.

If the sounds and sights of the dental office trigger your fear, try listening to your favorite television program or to music through headphones. Your dentist will probably have these devices available in his office. In addition, many dentists may offer you a mild sedative to help you have an anxiety free dental experience by helping you to relax.

While going to the dentist may not be your most enjoyed activity, it doesn’t have to be scary or painful either. You should identify your fear of dentists and express your concerns to your dentist and learn about the solutions that exist, including media devices and mild sedatives that are available for keeping you relaxed and reducing pain.

If you use good communication as the basis for your dental plan, your will have anxiety free dental appointments that will be much more bearable and much less painful.

http://worldental.org/dentists/pain-anxiety-free-dental-treatment/1471/

Vail Daily Health Tips 5/3/10

Vail Valley Dental Care Welcomes Nicole Shidler as Patient Care Coordinator

Avon, CO – Vail Valley Dental Care is pleased to announce that on May 5, 2010 Nicole Shidler joined the office as Patient Care Coordinator. In this new role, Shidler will handle the practice’s business operations and take a lead on building relationships with patients. Vail Valley Dental Care opened in the Avon Center at 100 W. Beaver Creek Boulevard in December 2009.

A Michigan native, Shidler received her bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration from Ferris State University in northern Michigan in 2008. She recently relocated to the Vail Valley with her fiancée, Todd Snyder, an assistant golf pro at the Sonnenalp Golf Club in Edwards.

“We are thrilled to add Nicole to our Vail Valley Dental Care practice and know that her background, experience and enthusiasm will be a perfect fit with our growing team,” said owner Dr. David Maloley.

Shidler enjoys snowboarding, cycling, traveling, photography and spending time with family. “I couldn’t be more excited to live here in the mountains and to be part of the Vail Valley Dental Care team,” she added.

Avon-based Vail Valley Dental Care offers complete dental care for the whole family. Their mission is “to create trusting friendships with our patients and inspire a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.” With leading-edge dental technology and a beautiful, newly renovated office, they provide patients of all ages with the exceptional dental care they deserve. For more information, please visit http://www.vailvalleydentalcare.com/  or call (970) 949-3331.

Learn more about Nicole here: http://www.vailvalleydentist.com/about.html

How to Teach Kids to Brush Their Teeth

Until your kids are about 6 years old, you will probably have to brush their teeth for them. After that, though, it will be up to them to do it on their own. Teaching kids to brush their teeth is not always an easy part of parenting, but it's something that must be done. To make the process a little easier on you and your kids, try following the suggestions below.

Being Practical

1. Brush your kids' teeth for them to demonstrate how to do it properly. Then let them to do it by themselves to prove how "grown up" they are. Continue doing this for as many days or weeks as is necessary for proper instruction.

2.  Demonstrate proper tooth brushing by having your child watch as you brush your own teeth. Then let your child brush your teeth also. Laugh and make it a fun event, showing your child how pleasant tooth brushing can be.

3.  Explain to your kids what happens when they don't brush their teeth. Tell them about plaque and the germs that will eat away at their teeth if they don't brush. Many kids will respond positively when presented with this information in a rational, grown-up way.

4.  Give your child a tablet to chew that will turn areas on the teeth colorful that have not been properly brushed. This technique will clearly show your child the effects of not brushing properly and motivate him or her to brush more thoroughly.

5.  Use consistently good dental hygiene yourself. Your children, eager to emulate their much-loved parent, will follow suit.

Making it Fun

1.  Recommend to your kids that they brush their doll's teeth. This will incorporate play with practical instruction, and it will also put them in the "parent" role of tooth brushing, making them feel a little more important.

2.  Inspire your kids to brush their teeth by making it a fun activity rather than a chore. Invent a game or a song to accompany tooth brushing. Show enthusiasm so that brushing their teeth is something your kids will want to do.

3.  Take turns brushing teeth with your child and you or older siblings. Let your child brush for 10 seconds or so, praise him or her, then brush your own teeth for 10 seconds. This allows parent-child interaction while giving your child the autonomy he or she wants.

4.  Buy a selection of three or four toothbrushes when first teaching kids to brush their teeth. Let them select which toothbrush they want to use each time. This way your kids will feel like they have some control over the situation.

5.  Consider buying an electric toothbrush for your kids. This will make brushing easier and more enjoyable for them, and it is more effective than manual brushing.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2077414_teach-kids-brush-their-teeth.html

Another Successful "Give Kids a Smile"

25,188 children  seen by 12,877 dentists and 36,884 other volunteers . . . Wow!!!

Dear Give Kids A Smile Coordinator:

As we reflect on our most recent Give Kids A Smile care day, it’s clear that our shared national success is built upon your unique community efforts at more than 2,000 events across the country. Each one demonstrated “home town” care and concern for underserved children. We cannot think of a better way to thank you than by sharing the following, sent to the ADA by a grateful Mom the evening of the nationwide event:

Today my 10 yr old son was treated by your "give kids a smile" program. I can't begin to find words to thank your organization, the wonderful staff that treated him, and any others involved with this program. Today was not just about my son getting beyond some horrible dental issues (he had six extractions and two fillings), it was about giving my son confidence, self esteem, a smile, a new outlook on life, and a brighter future. I pray that you know what dental care can do for a child who has not had it available and how incredibly grateful we are to everyone. You've changed his life with your mission and generosity and I wanted to make sure you knew this. Please feel free to share this with dentists, students and donors. If there is a single way I can help this program continue, please let me know. Again, thank you deeply, and God bless you.

Plans called for an astounding 325,188 children to be seen by 12,877 dentists and 36,884 other volunteers. Again this year, Henry Schein Dental donated professional product valued at $1,050,000. DEXIS donated the use of its equipment and staff to all dental schools requesting that assistance, valued at $1,000,000. And Colgate donated $750,000 in toothbrushes and toothpastes. What a team! We are so proud they have supported us for so many years.

Warmest thanks,

Ronald L. Tankersley, D.D.S.

President

Seal the Deal: Information about dental sealants

In addition to good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, there are other ways to protect teeth from decay. Dental sealants can protect teeth and seal them off from decay-causing bacteria.

What are dental sealants?
Dental sealants are made of plastic and are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. The plastic fits into the depressions and grooves (pits and fissures) of teeth. The sealants protect tooth enamel from the bacteria and acids that cause decay.

Why can’t I just brush and floss?
While brushing and flossing help to remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth, toothbrush bristles often can’t reach into the teeth’s depressions and grooves. Sealants protect those areas and prevent food and bacteria from getting in.

How does the dentist apply a sealant?
Your dentist can apply sealants easily, and it takes only a few minutes to seal each tooth. The dentist first cleans the teeth that will be sealed, which may require the use of a dental drill to open the grooves of the teeth and determine if decay is present. Then he or she will roughen the chewing surfaces with an acid solution, which will help the sealant stick to the teeth. The dentist then “paints” the sealant on the tooth. It bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes your dentist will use a special curing light to help the sealant harden.

Aren’t sealants just for kids?
Decay can begin early in life, so dentists usually apply sealants to children’s and teenagers’ premolars and molars to protect them. But sealants can protect adults’ teeth, too. Ask your dentist about sealants for your children or for yourself to see if they would be beneficial.

How long do they last?
As long as the sealant remains intact, the tooth surface will be protected from decay. Sealants hold up well under the force of normal chewing and usually last several years before a reapplication is needed. The risk of decay decreases significantly after sealant application. During your regular dental visits, your dentist will check the condition of the sealants and reapply them when necessary.

Are sealants safe?
Sealants are extremely safe, though some people may have an allergic reaction to the plastic. Talk to your dentist if you or your children have allergies so that he or she can provide the best treatment options.

Will my insurance pay for sealants?
Health insurance usually will pay for sealants for children’s and teenagers’ permanent molars. If the dentist suggests sealants for other teeth, he or she will tell you whether or not the costs will be covered. Be sure to check with your dental insurance company about your insurance plan as coverage may vary.

Seal the Deal
Your dentist can apply sealants easily, and it takes only a few minutes to seal each tooth.

Provided by the Academy of General Dentistry
For more patient information, check out our education video library:  Vail Valley Dental Care Patient Education

ESPN Magazine: Six Things You Should Know About Treating NHL Teeth

1. We're Part Of A Team Too. "The NHL prefers clubs to have an orthopedist, optometrist and dentist at games. I rotate with another dentist, because we both have our own practices. If a player leaves the game holding his mouth, he goes through a set of triages: The trainer looks at him, then the orthopedist, the physician, then us."

2. Guys Play Through Pain ... "Players endure things average patients wouldn't. They'll shrug off chipped teeth or abscesses, because they don't want to lose playing time. 'Whatever it takes' is their motto. Last year, Cam Ward's wisdom tooth bothered him during the playoffs. He wasn't about to miss those games, so we postponed surgery and calmed it with antibiotics."

3. ... To A Point. "This is hockey, so it gets ugly. Once, a player took a stick to the mouth and it pushed in his lower teeth. But they were still attached to his gums, so we were able to reimplant them into the sockets. Another time, a Rangers star had his front tooth knocked out-but just one tooth. How he got hit with so much force in such a small area still boggles me."

4. Sometimes We Need Reinforcements. "There's a division between older and younger guys. Some vets skate with four front teeth missing, but young guys are concerned about cosmetics. Even so, lots of guys won't fix anything until they retire. I try to encourage them not to wait that long. Wives can act as influences. If I can't get through to a guy, I'll appeal to his wife. She'll make sure it happens."

5. Emergencies Happen. We're on call for practices-with all those pucks flying around, there's a high chance of injury. Players get priority access. If the trainer calls, we have them bring the injured guy to our office and we reschedule patients. Some patients are more understanding than others."

6. We Do It for The Love Mostly. "We don't get a direct stipend. We do this for perks: tickets, travel with the team and gifts. But players are covered through a league dental plan and workers' comp. So if we treat an injury, we do get paid."

By Gabriel J. Rich, Hurricanes Team Dentist
(As Told To Anna Katherine Clemmons)
Photograph By Tony Pearce
Article Is Property Of ESPN © 2010

We're rooting for our friends Olivia Swift and Caroline Byrne in the Junior Olympics this weekend

Ski and Snowboard Club Vail's Caroline Byrne stays in a tight tuck through the flats of the downhill course Thursday during training for the Junior Olympics race at Golden Peak in Vail. Byrne tied for first with Aspen's Danielle Brownell-Patty in Thursday's training.

http://www.vaildaily.com/article/20100304/SPORTS/100309750&parentprofile=search

http://www.vaildaily.com/article/20100304/SPORTS/100309739&parentprofile=search

10 Bad Dental Habits to Break

1. Brushing too hard

Using a firm-bristled toothbrush and too much pressure can permanently wear away protective enamel (triggering tooth sensitivity and cavities) and cause receding gums. Instead, use a soft brush and gentle, circular scrubbing motions for two minutes at least twice a day. When buying a toothbrush, consider that compact heads move most easily around small mouths and long, flexible handles are better than short, stiff ones for reaching back molars.

Also to consider: Going electric. Because they do the hard part for you (and do it correctly), electric toothbrushes may help you remove more plaque than manual brushes. A 1997 study published in the Journal of Clinical Dentistry showed that electric toothbrushes improved periodontal health in adults with gum problems.

2. The wrong toothpaste

Some toothpastes, especially those designated "tartar control," are too abrasive. Anything that feels gritty can erode enamel and cause receding gums. Fluoride is the only ingredient you need. Dentist-recommended toothpastes include: Mentadent ($3.29), Tom's of Maine Natural Toothpaste ($4) and Sensodyne Fresh Mint ($4.39) for sensitive teeth.

3. Forgoing floss

Bacteria on your teeth can develop into plaque, the leading cause of cavities and gum disease, in 24 hours. Flossing once a day is essential for removing plaque.

4. Drinking lots of soda

Carbonated sodas—both diet and regular—contain phosphoric acid, which can erode teeth over a period of time. If you drink soda, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth—and brush afterward.

5. Foods that stain

Tooth enamel is like a sponge. Anything that leaves a stain in a cup or on a plate (for example, coffee, tea, colas, marinara sauce, soy sauce, red wine) will give teeth a dull, yellowish color over time. Ask your dentist about laser whitening, bleaching or Prophy Power, a new in-office procedure in which sodium bicarbonate (a gentle whitening agent) mixes with a powerful jet of water to lift stains without removing enamel.

If you want to use a whitening toothpaste, consider that they can brighten teeth a few shades, but they tend to be harsh on the enamel.

6. Frequent snacking

Every time you eat something, especially if it's a sugary or starchy food, the bacteria that normally live in your mouth create acids to break down the food. But these acids can also attack teeth, leading to decay. Eating raw, firm fruits and vegetables (like apples and carrots) with and after meals can help. (Many dental experts consider such foods to be nature's toothbrushes because of their detergent-like effect on plaque.)

Chewing sugarless gum after eating can also help prevent cavities by increasing saliva flow, which helps wash away cavity-causing bacteria. Look for gum sweetened with Xylitol. Researchers at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis found gum containing the natural sweetener temporarily inhibited bacterial growth which leads to decay.

7. Using teeth as tools

Ripping open potato-chip bags and loosening knots with your teeth can lead to cracks and breaks and damage fillings and existing dental work. Also risky: Chewing ice cubes, frozen candy bars or hard candies.

8. Neglecting problems

Bleeding gums and chronic bad breath are hallmarks of gum disease. To fight bad breath, drink enough water to keep your mouth moist (water and saliva help control bacteria) and remove excess bacteria with a tongue scraper. To prevent bleeding gums, brush and floss daily. If your symptoms persistent longer than a few days, consult your dentist.

9. Avoiding the dentist

You're probably familiar with the advice that you should schedule twice-yearly cleanings—but that's actually an arbitrary recommendation. We now know that some people may actually need to see a dentist every three months to keep gum disease at bay.

10. Ignoring your lips

No matter how great your dental health, your smile still won't shine if it's framed by dry, cracked lips. Lip skin, which is thinner than other skin on the body, is prone to moisture loss, environmental damage and changes due to aging. Using a moisturizing balm daily will help keep lips soft and smooth.

View the original article at: http://www.origin.shape.com/health/family_health/dental_health/10_bad_dental_habits_to_break

Laser Cavity Detection

If you have you ever gone to the dentist and had him find a cavity that wasn't seen just 6 months ago and when it was filled the cavity was quite large then you are really going to love this. The 1-2 combination of our Diagnodent laser cavity detector and our low-radiation x-ray system allows us to find cavities before they get big. This saves you not only time and money, but can also save your teeth from large fillings, root canals and crowns.

Diagnodent Laser Cavity Detection Unit

How does the Diagnodent work?
The Diagnodent is a pen-like probe that sends a safe, painless laser beam into the tooth and checks its health. A number scale and an alarm will signal when there are signs of hidden decay.

The above picture shows how the Diagnodent can find cavities that other dental instruments can miss

How come my dentist could not find my cavity until it was large?

With the widespread use of fluoride in both drinking water and toothpastes, it is much harder to detect tooth decay than ever before. This is because the fluoride hardens the enamel so that most decay starts in microscopic defects in the hard surface, and can readily spread into the softer surface beneath. This destroys the tooth from the inside out. The Diagnodent allows us to determine if decay is lurking beneath the apparently healthy tooth surface.

Can you use tooth colored (white) fillings in my teeth?
Absolutely!!! As a matter of fact we only place tooth colored fillings in teeth since these not only look better, but also are stronger and smaller than silver fillings. This is because tooth colored fillings are bonded in and actually help hold the remaining parts of the tooth together. Silver on the other hand is merely wedged in and does nothing to help strengthen the tooth.

White (colored) fillings vs. silver fillings

http://www.sixmonthbraces.com/lasercavitydetection.htm

Vail Daily: Monday Health Tips

Why Am I Anxious in the Dental Office?

People are anxious about going to the dentist for different reasons, including worrying about the effectiveness of localized anesthetic and feeling like the dentist is rushed or is neglecting your concerns. Other factors include anticipation of pain, the cost of the procedure, past experiences and even the sterile smell of the dental office. Interrupting the normal day's routine to visit the dentist also is a factor in general anxiety. If not addressed, dental anxiety can lead to unnecessary oral health problems as a result of avoiding the dentist, which in turn can end up leading to much more time spent in the dental chair when treatment is the only option.


If you are looking for a dentist, ask friends and relatives for recommendations. A glowing review from someone you trust about a dentist can significantly reduce anxiety. You can also find a dentist by calling the Academy of General Dentistry's toll-free service 1.877.2X.A.YEAR (1.877.292.9327). Give the operator your ZIP code and you'll receive the names of three Academy members in your area.

If you are seeing a new dentist for the first time, schedule an appointment for a visit. Take the opportunity to ask this dentist a few questions, and be sure to address your concerns. You'll find that dentists who take the time to speak with you about these matters will be understanding when it comes to addressing your fears.

KnowYourTeeth.com

FISH OIL CAN FIGHT DENTAL DISEASE

The discovery of a new natural weapon against dental disease has been welcomed by the UK's leading oral health information charity. Following a five-year study involving elderly participants in Japan, fish oil has been found to help combat mouth infection and boost oral health in the process.

Dental examinations revealed that a lack of the essential omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil in people's diets had strong links with the progression of periodontal (gum) disease.

The new findings, recently published in the Nutrition journal, also revealed that omega-3 fatty acids were strongly effective against a range of oral bacteria.

This news comes in light of similar findings from a US National Institute for Health-sponsored study. Lead author Dr C.B. Huang, from the Oral Health Research Centre at the University of Kentucky's College of Dentistry, commented on the dental health benefits of fish oil.

"The anti-bacterial part of the omega-3 fatty acids could be very important. Certainly, it could be a potential new use of omega-3 fatty acids in the future."

Following these recent journal* findings, Dr. Huang confirmed that ongoing research into anti-bacterial activity would include investigating products such as chewing gum.

In light of the news of these beneficial oral health effects, the British Dental Health Foundation Chief Executive, Dr. Nigel Carter BDS LDS (RCS), commented: "These findings illustrate how the consequences of our diet can be linked to gum disease, the most common dental hygiene issue.There are hundreds of bacteria in our mouths at any one time that contribute to gum disease, which not only threatens tooth loss but, significantly, overall health.

"A healthy mouth can lead to a healthy body so a good oral healthcare routine, including brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and making regular visits to the dentist are just as important as a healthy, balanced diet."

With evidence of a poor diet linked to a third of all cancer cases, Dr. Carter also stressed: "Eating fish can help lower the risk of cancer, as can an increase in eggs, fruit and vegetables."

The Foundation encourages members of the public with any concerns about the effects of their diet on their teeth to contact the National Dental Helpline on 0845 063 1188.

Self–examination is another simple way of looking after yourself. The Foundation, who run a Mouth Cancer Action Month campaign each November, encourage all members of the public to check their mouths regularly for ulcers which do not heal within three weeks, red and white patches in the mouth and unusual lumps and swellings in the mouth and neck.

*Source: Molecular Oral Microbiology, Volume 25 Issue 1, pages 75-80 "A novel bioactivity of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their ester derivatives" Authors: C.B. Huang, J.L Ebersole

Early Start is Best Practice

Dental health affects children very early in their life – perhaps earlier than you would suspect. Research has shown a relationship between a mother’s dental health and the baby’s birth. The baby’s primary and permanent teeth begin their development in the womb. Also, according to the American Academy of Periodontology, women with gum disease or tooth infections may be seven times more likely to have their babies too early and with low birth weight.

Beyond birth, cavity-causing bacteria can be spread to babies and children. Unknowingly, parents can "infect" their babies with tooth bacteria from their own saliva when kissing or sharing food, on silverware or tooth brushes. This shows the importance for parents to have a healthy mouth, reducing the risk of transferring the bacteria that causes tooth decay to their child.

General health is linked to dental health – in children and adults. In children, any dental decay or pain can cause problems when eating, speaking, with self-esteem, and other daily activities. Severe decay can also affect growth and development. Dental pain can hinder learning when pain may cause an inability to concentrate in school. When kids have a healthy mouth, they are more confident in their appearance.

Prevention and early intervention is always best and are the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health! Being preventive can result in less expense and reduce the amount of treatment needed. Preventive dentistry begins with the very first tooth. Once the first tooth erupts, parents should start daily cleanings. A dental home should be established no later than 12 months of age. The earlier the dental visit, the better the chance of preventing dental disease and helping your child build a cavity-free smile. Consider the positive effects of having the child comfortable and confident when going to the dentist.

Visiting the dentist regularly will help your child stay cavity-free. Food and bacteria build up in the crevices within the mouth, placing your child in danger of tooth decay. Teeth cleanings allow for debris to be removed from the teeth, which can irritate the gums and cause decay. Fluoride treatments renew the fluoride content in the enamel, strengthening teeth and preventing cavities. Sealants “seal out” food and plaque from the natural pits and grooves on teeth, thus reducing the risk of decay. Hygiene instructions improve your child's brushing and flossing, leading to cleaner teeth and healthier gums.

After a general dentist or pediatric dentist has completed a thorough oral examination, they can design a preventative program for home care and educate both you and your child. A good home care program includes brushing and flossing instructions, diet counseling and, if necessary, fluoride recommendations. By following these recommendations, you can help give your child a lifetime of healthy dental habits and smiles.

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. This is the first is a series of four articles that will help raise community awareness about the importance of oral health in kids. Dr. David Maloley is the owner of Vail Valley Dental Care in Avon. For more information call 970.949.3331 or visit www.vailvalleydentist.com

Local Event Highlights Disadvantaged Children’s Need for Dental Care

Avon, CO. – February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. For 60 years the American Dental Association (ADA) has sponsored the month to raise awareness among families and policymakers about the importance of children to have good oral health habits.

On Feb. 5 an estimated twenty local children in great need of dental care will receive free services ranging from cleanings and exams to fillings and extraction of infected teeth as part of the ADA’s annual Give Kids A Smile® program. These children were selected through referrals from school nurses. Vail Valley Dental Care will host the event with support from Beaver Creek Endodontics in Edwards and Castle Peak Dentistry in Eagle.

Last year, more than 44,650 dental team members nationwide participated in the Give Kids A Smile®. There is also generous corporate support for the program. Companies, such as Colgate, provided more than $2.8 million in products for the 2009 event.

“It’s heartbreaking to see a child’s smile destroyed by severe tooth decay,” said Dr. David Maloley, owner of Vail Valley Dental Care. “Many children are unable to pay attention in school, eat, or sleep because they have multiple toothaches. It also can have a dramatic negative effect on self-esteem”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tooth decay affects more than one-fourth of U.S. children aged 2–5 and half of those aged 12–15. About two-thirds of children aged 12–19 from low income families have had decay. While poor diet and oral hygiene certainly pay a role, cavities are actually caused by an infectious disease called caries, which is five times more common than asthma.

Public health programs such as Medicaid are supposed to help underserved children, but utilization rates are low. In Eagle County, Medicaid-eligible children who utilize their dental benefits are less than 25 percent.

The Grinding and Gasping Connection

According to research from the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), teeth grinding, or bruxism, and sleep apnea have a connection that goes far beyond being nocturnal nuisances. Researchers found that nearly one in four patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) also suffer from sleep bruxism. This relationship is particularly common in men and Caucasians compared with women and other ethnic groups. “The relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and sleep bruxism is usually related to an arousal response. The ending of an apneic event may be accompanied by a number of mouth phenomena, such as snoring, gasping, mumbles, and teeth grinding,” said Shyam Subramanian, MD, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas. “Men typically have more severe sleep apnea, and perhaps may have more arousal responses, which may explain the higher prevalence of teeth grinding in men.” Emotions also may play a part in this relationship, as sleep loss due to OSA may lead to high levels of anxiety, which is one of the main causes of bruxism.
Untreated bruxism can cause major dental damage, including excessive tooth wear or decay, jaw pain, and periodontal tissue damage. It can also cause individuals to experience headaches and sleep disturbances. “When treating sleep apnea, clinicians must also recognize and address secondary health conditions, such as bruxism, in order to fully manage a patient’s sleep disorder,” states Kalpalatha Guntupalli, MD, President of the ACCP. As dentists are the most qualified clinicians to diagnosis bruxism, individuals with OSA should schedule regular visits with their dentist to ensure that they are not grinding away at vital tooth structure late into the night.

Arthritis: Good dental health may ease pain

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic disease that causes inflammation, pain, stiffness, redness, swelling and warmth around affected joints. Roughly 1.3 million Americans -- 70% of them are women -- have RA. What causes it? We don't know yet, but we do know that although it can be treated, this chronic disease can't be cured.

Still, there are new ways to help people with RA. One study of 40 people with severe RA who also had gum disease showed that when dental problems were treated, RA problems also improved, resulting in less arthritic pain, fewer swollen joints and reduced morning stiffness.


There's also new hope for the estimated 27 million Americans who have osteoarthritis, or OA, a painful and debilitating condition that causes loss of cartilage in weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips and spine. People who lost as little as 5% of their body weight reduced their risk of developing OA in the knees, a six-year study of 1,480 men and women age 45 and older found. For a 200-pound person, 5% is only 10 pounds; for a 150-pound person, it's just 7.5 pounds.

USA Weekend

Mother’s gum disease linked to infant's death

Pregnant woman's gingivitis caused baby to be stillborn, scientists say

By Linda Carroll
msnbc.com contributor
updated 6:43 a.m. MT, Fri., Jan. 22, 2010

Pregnant women with untreated gum disease may have more at stake than just their teeth. They may also be risking the lives of their babies, a new study shows.

Expectant mothers have long been warned that gum disease can cause a baby to be born prematurely or too small. But for the first time scientists have linked bacteria from a mother’s gums to an infection in a baby that was full-term but stillborn, according to the study which was published Thursday in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Scientists from Case Western University made the discovery after a 35-year-old California woman contacted them to help investigate the death of her baby. Earlier studies by the same researchers showed that an oral bacteria called Fusobacterium nucleatum could spread from the bloodstream to the placenta in mice. The woman wanted to know if it was possible in humans.

Bacteria from the mouth can easily get into the bloodstream once a woman's gums are bleeding, explains the study’s lead author Yiping Han, an associate professor of periodontics and pathology at Case Western University. Generally, this type of bacteria can be easily combated by the immune system of the mom-to-be, whether mouse or human. But because of special conditions that exist in the womb, the fetus can be more susceptible, Han suspects.

“Once the bacteria are in the blood, they can go almost anywhere,” Han says. “The placenta is an immuno-suppressed organ, compared to other organs like the liver and the spleen. And that makes it easy for the bacteria to colonize the placenta.”

The California woman told researchers that she had experienced heavy bleeding from her gums — a sign of gum disease — during her pregnancy. Bleeding gums aren’t unusual in pregnant women, with about 75 percent developing the condition due to normal hormonal changes. Mild gum disease can be treated simply by brushing and flossing more often. Pregnant women with more serious cases may need dental surgery.

Usually women’s uterine infections, which can harm a fetus, are caused by bacteria that work their way up from the vaginal canal, says Han. But the researchers detected a bacteria in the baby not typically found in the vaginal region. Plaque samples from the woman’s teeth were found to be positive for the exact same strain of the oral bacteria found in the dead baby’s stomach and lungs.

Women shouldn’t be overly alarmed by the new study, says Dr. Richard H. Beigi, an obstetric infectious disease specialist and an assistant professor of reproductive science at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

“This is just one case,” he explained. “Most pregnant women have bleeding gums and most don’t have dead babies. This can happen, but it’s rare. And this finding doesn’t mean that it’s increasing.”

Still, Beigi says, it should serve as a reminder that pregnant women with bleeding gums should see a dentist to treat their gingivitis. Gingivitis can increase the risk of preterm birth anywhere from twice to seven times, studies indicate.

The new study underscores the importance of oral hygiene not only for pregnant women, but also for those contemplating pregnancy, says Dr. Michael Lu, an associate professor of obstetrics, gynecology and public health at the University of California Los Angeles Medical Center.

“We know that gingivitis doesn’t happen overnight and that it’s important for women to enter pregnancy in good health,” Lu says. “I would love to see every woman who is contemplating pregnancy get pre-conception care that includes an oral-health check-up.”

Linda Carroll is a health and science writer living in New Jersey. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Newsday, Health magazine and SmartMoney.

© 2010 msnbc.com. Reprints
URL: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34979552/ns/health-pregnancy/?gt1=43001

Vail Valley Bizwatch: Vail Valley Dental Care | VailDaily.com

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Vail Valley Dental Care launches new website

Vail Valley Dental Care launches new website

New website

Our new website just went "Live"!  Check it out:
http://www.vailvalleydentist.com/

Our new pediatric ad

Coming Next Month

http://givekidsasmile.ada.org/index.asp

Vail Valley Dental Care Welcomes Dr. Jack Hilty

http://www.i-newswire.com/vail-valley-dental-care-welcomes/16781

16 healthy tips for feeling better in 2010

In today's issue of USA Weekend, Dr. Oz give us "16 healthy tips for feeling better in 2010".  One of his tips is:

Brush and floss daily.
Inflammation causes more health problems than you'd imagine. In fact, your body becomes dangerous when it's inflamed. Inflammation causes rusting of the body -- it's like an apple turning brown 20 minutes after being cut. Gingivitis is a leading cause of an immune civil war that stimulates inflammation, a major cause of heart attacks. Brush for two full minutes (that's right -- two minutes) every morning and night to reduce your risk of heart disease. And floss to clean the 40% of tooth surfaces that you otherwise would miss if you only brush.

See the other 15 here: http://www.usaweekend.com/10_issues/100103/100103dr-oz.html

New Year. New You!

Video tour of our office