A+ Family Dentistry April 2019

San Diego Location: 3780 El Cajon Blvd., Unit 1

Poway Location: 12915 Pomerado Road Poway, CA 92064 Phone: 858-748-5100

San Diego, CA 92105 Phone: 619-265-2467

The Happy Tooth

OUR MISSION TO HELP Building a True Family Practice

When I was 16 years old, I went to the dentist’s office almost every day after school for three months straight. This would be stressful for any teenager, but my family had just moved to the United States from Vietnam. I didn’t speak any English, and in addition to trying to adjust to a new school, there was the added culture shock of visiting in the dentist. In

“At A+ Family Dentistry, our mission is to help and educate each person to a level that they never need dentistry in the future.”

Vietnam, you don’t go to the dentist unless you are in physical pain. It’s not surprising that my siblings and I all needed to get a lot of dental work done when we first came to the United States. It was a really neat experience to see the dentist transform my teeth and smile. At one point, my dad suggested that I could become a dentist myself. Like any teenager, I quickly rejected any suggestion that came from my parents. I wanted to go into medicine, but my intention was to be a doctor. I got as far as premed in college, volunteering at the oncology ward of a hospital. It was really depressing, and I realized the hospital wasn’t the place for me. That’s when I took a serious look at dentistry and began to really see myself doing it. I volunteered at a dental office and saw a completely different side to dentistry. It’s a combination of art and science. Dentists need the medical know-how to keep patients healthy, but they also need an artist’s eye in order to create beautiful smiles their patients will love. Both of these areas really appealed to me.

After I became a dentist, I wanted to take what I love about dentistry and build a true family-based practice. Throughout my life, I’ve been reminded of the importance of family. Our families are the people who will stand next to us through life’s challenges, and they see the good qualities that we sometimes don’t recognize in ourselves. Family is the building blocks that keep society together. When we say A+ Family Dentistry is a family practice, we mean it. My sister, Dr. Janice, also went down the path of dentistry. Today, I work with my sister every day at the office. We’ve worked with the same team members for so long, they really do feel like our family members. And we all made a promise to take care of our patients like we would care for our own family members. At A+ Family Dentistry, our mission is to help and educate each person to a level that they never need dentistry in the future. This is why we do so much preventative care. I know firsthand how important this kind of care is for your health. After years of dental problems in my youth, I have spent the last 10 years needing just dental cleanings every few months. It’s so much easier than needing major dental work every two years. There are some patients we see every six months, like clockwork. And others that we haven’t seen in a few years. But no matter how long it’s been since their last appointment, we’re always happy when patients walk through our

Plus, I liked the idea of getting to know my patients on a personal level and being able to help them feel better in a matter of minutes. I was happier and felt more at home in a dentist’s office than I ever did at the hospital.

doors again. We’re here because we know quality dental care is necessary for achieving optimal health, and that’s what we offer our patients every day.

–Dr. Justene Doan

April 2019 Edition

A+ Family Dentistry | 619-265-2467 | P1

As we age, our ability to produce tears diminishes. Fish oil’s lubricating and anti- inflammatory properties also make it a great treatment for and defense against chronic dry eye. Cognitive Function Benefits Several studies have concluded that regularly consuming omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain cognitive function. While research shows no cognitive recovery in extremely elderly subjects who already suffer from dementia, evidence indicates that taking fish oil on a regular basis may prevent or postpone the onset of cognitive decline. Omega-3 consumption may also improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from depression or anxiety at any age. Which Omega-3 Supplement Is Right for Me? If you eat fatty fish several times a week every week, you may already get enough omega-3s, but it can be difficult to get a therapeutic dose of fish oil from food alone on a regular basis. A fish oil supplement can provide additional fatty acids. Look for an ingredient list that specifically shows EPA and DHA; some brands use misleading labeling that only shows the total amount of fish oil rather than the actual omega-3s. Recommendations vary, but most sources indicate that a dosage of 1,000–2,000 milligrams (1–2 grams) of combined EPA and DHA provides benefits. If the smell or “fish burps” bother you, choose enteric-coated capsules, which dissolve in the small intestine rather than the stomach. Omega-3 caps also come in vegan options sourced from seaweed and algae. We want to thank all of our patients who put so much faith in us by recommending our services to their friends and family members. Last month, our referrals came from these amazing patients: A+ Referrals

The Many Wonders of Omega-3s

Because fish oil is said to improve everything from heart health to chronic dry eye, it may sound a bit like, well, snake oil. But this brilliant little supplement packs a big punch, especially for older adults. Heart Health Benefits The omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) have been shown to support heart health in multiple ways. The Mayo Clinic cites research suggesting that higher levels of EPA are associated with a reduced risk of congestive heart failure in older adults. Studies also report that people with moderate to severe hypertension typically see a positive effect on their blood pressure if they regularly take omega-3s. Joint and Eye Benefits Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with osteoarthritis and other joint disorders by lubricating the joints and acting as an anti-inflammatory. TESTIMONIAL See What Others Are Saying “The facility and staff are very friendly and professional. My dentist, Dr. Justene Doan, is one of the best in my experience; she is very thorough and gentle at the same time. She did an amazing job with the treatment that she did for me, I had next to no pain afterward, and there were absolutely no discomforts during the procedure. I highly recommend this facility, and we’ll be using them as my facility from now on.” – Matt Kassahn

Aden A. Jessica A. Echo A. Brendon B. Staci B. Casimira C. Jennifer C. Badr D.

Marlena F. Rogelio G. Leobardo G. Jonathan H.

Doug M. Louise N. Jessica P. Shenna S. Abbie S. Susan S. Joanna W.

Loise J. Sara K.

“Dr. Janice is unbelievable! She is friendly, knowledgeable, and just a fantastic dentist. I highly recommend her!” – Steven Schluentz

Maha L. Molly M.

And the winner of March’s referral prize is: Rogelio G.

Thank you to all of our patients who continue to support us. Check back next month when we will announce the winner of our next referral prize.

P2 | A+ Family Dentistry | Aplusfamilydentistry.com

Another Way A+ Family Dentistry Serves Our Patients

Did you know around 74 million Americans don’t have dental insurance? Despite being a necessary part of maintaining overall health and well-being, dentistry is still viewed as an optional luxury. For this reason, those without access to affordable dental insurance are often unable to go to the dentist at all, and their health suffers as a result. Preventive care is crucial for maintaining your health and reducing the need for costly emergency treatments in the future. People who do not have dental insurance are more likely to suffer from gum disease, lose a tooth from tooth decay, or end up needing uncomfortable dentures. Studies show that being unable to visit the dentist due to a lack of dental insurance can also increase your risk for other nondental-related health problems. Of people who do not have dental benefits:

• 67 percent are more likely to have heart disease. 50 percent are more likely to have osteoporosis. 29 percent are more likely to have diabetes. At A+ Family Dentistry, almost half of all the patients we see don’t have any sort of dental benefits. These are the patients we only see when there’s an emergency because they cannot afford regular preventive care. We are committed to taking care of our patients’ health, and we believe patients shouldn’t be forced to choose between buying groceries and getting their teeth cleaned. This is why we have created an in-house benefits plan to make dental care more affordable for our patients. • •

• •

One exam per calendar year.

One set of X-rays per calendar year (as needed). One preventative cleaning every six months. 20 percent discount on all other services that are not covered by an outside insurance company. This plan can help you cover the dental needs for your whole family. There are no contracts, and you’re free to cancel your plan at any time. Learn more about our Dental Benefits Plan at APlusFamilyDentistry.com/dental-insurance- plan or call 619-265-2467. We’re here to help our patients have healthy smiles they can be proud of. • •

Our Dental Benefits Plan emphasizes preventive care. For one low monthly cost, you get:

Inspired by Bon Appétit magazine

Word Search

Blistered Asparagus With Peanut-Coconut Sprinkle

Cooking asparagus over high heat is a great way to add charred flavors while still keeping the spears crisp. This recipe pairs them with a tangy, crunchy peanut and coconut glaze.

Ingredients

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12 ounces asparagus, stalks trimmed 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• •

1 teaspoon agave nectar

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, peeled and finely grated 2 tablespoons peanuts, crushed 2 tablespoons shredded coconut, toasted

• •

1 Fresno chile, deseeded and finely chopped

• •

• •

2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

•

Salt, to taste

BUTTERFLY DANDELION EASTER FOOL

HOAX MISCHIEF PASSOVER PRANK

RAINBOW SHOWERS

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. 2. Season asparagus with salt and sauté, tossing frequently until blistered, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a platter.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine chile, soy sauce, lime juice, agave, and ginger. Mix in peanuts and coconut. 4. Spoon over asparagus and serve.

SPRING TAURUS

A+ Family Dentistry | 619-265-2467 | P3

Office Hours: Mondays: Closed

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

Tuesdays: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Wednesdays: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Thursdays: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fridays: 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturdays: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Finding My Smile Page 1 The Many Wonders of Omega-3s Page 2 What Some of Our Patients Are Saying Page 2 An Easier Way to See the Dentist Page 3 Blistered Asparagus With Peanut-Coconut Sprinkle Page 3 Local Events Page 4 Inside This Issue Aplusfamilydentistry.com 619-265-2467 3780 El Cajon Blvd., Unit 1 San Diego, CA 92105

Try Something New LOCAL EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Nature is the most beautiful in the spring, and the San Diego Museum of Art wants to celebrate Mother Nature’s beauty with four flower-filled days of events. Nearly 100 floral interpretations of masterworks will bloom at the museum’s galleries, along with exhibitions, workshops, and more. Art Alive is the Museum’s most important fundraiser, so don’t miss out on your chance to support the arts and enjoy the world’s natural beauty in a new and fantastic way. Easter Bash at Belmont Park Where: Belmont Park, San Diego When: Sunday, April 21; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission: See website Website: BelmontPark.com/easter-bash-at-belmont-park/ The Easter Bunny is comin’ to town, and he’s bringing even more fun to Belmont Park! Get ready for multiple egg hunts, live music, games, free activities for kids, and brunch on the boardwalk this Easter Sunday. The eggs in these hunts are specially selected by the Easter Bunny himself and full of amazing surprises, including dining packages and free ride passes. Your kids can even take a picture with the Easter Bunny amid all the excitement. Start planning the best Easter bash by grabbing your tickets now.

Kingdom Con 2019 Where: Crowne Plaza San Diego – Mission Valley, San Diego When: April 11–14 Admission: See website for registration Website: Kingdom-Con.com

Calling all elven wizards, planeswalkers, dungeon masters, and gamers of all ages! San Diego’s favorite tabletop gaming convention is back for its 10th year, bigger and better than ever! Join over 1200 other gamers for four days of card games, board games, RPGs, miniatures, vendors, and more. This family-friendly event is for veteran gamers and beginners alike who want to hang out and celebrate the fun of gaming. Art Alive: The Museum in Full Bloom Where: San Diego Museum of Art, San Diego When: April 12–14 Admission: Free for members; $25 for nonmembers; $5 for kids Website: SDMArt.org/artalive/

P4 | A+ Family Dentistry | Aplusfamilydentistry.com