Briarfield Dental Care - December 2021/January 2022

Briarfield Dental Care - December 2021/January 2022

Dec/Jan 2022

A Season Full of Gratitude

Thanking Our Amazing Staff The holidays give us a lot of opportunities to reflect on what we’re thankful for. Like everyone else, of course, I’m grateful for my friends and family. But in my everyday life, I tend to think more about the things I don’t have instead of being grateful for all the things I do have. During the worst days of the pandemic, it seemed easy to focus on everything that went wrong. Our office was closed for almost two months, and it was rough on both my family and me. I think I nearly drove Melody crazy — she was always telling me to take a walk or go down to the basement to get me out of her hair. And when we could reopen, some of our team members decided not to rejoin us. When times are rough, we have to remember what we have and how fortunate we are. It has taken a while, but I finally feel like I have a strong (and complete) team here at the practice. The people I work with are tremendous, and I’m excited to move forward with them. They are the reason we take such good care of our patients, so I want to share my gratitude. Tina started working with me over 30 years ago. She began as a hygienist but is now our dental sleep coordinator. She’s dedicated, loyal, and incredibly hardworking. I would be lost without her. Jennifer does an excellent job handling insurance and finances, and we share the same dry sense of humor. She’s also responsible for planning our Kids’ Days, which have become quite a hit with children and parents alike. She’s always enthusiastic about getting everything set up, and she does a great job. Marge is my primary dental assistant — and probably the best I’ve ever worked with. I’ve become very dependent on her. She is dedicated, never complains, and is always ready to work. Erin handles scheduling and recalls. She has a bubbly and enthusiastic personality that is perfect for her work, and she brings a spark to our office. I feel so lucky to have her working here. Gabby also works as a dental assistant, and she’s always ready to learn. She’s currently going to Owens Community College to become a dental hygienist, so she only works part time. But when she is here, she adds a lot of value to the team.

Andrea , one of our dental hygienists, is a real lifesaver. We were fortunate enough to hire her during the pandemic, and her knowledge and experience have had an extremely positive effect. She always helps get things done, and she is a tremendously skilled hygienist. Cindy , our other hygienist, has been with us for a couple of months. Though she’s quiet and soft-spoken, our patients love her. I’m always happy with the work she does, and our patients are, too. Zoe , our most recent addition, is a dental assistant and recent graduate. She’s always willing to learn and take on whatever tasks we throw her way. She recently needed to pick up some unexpected duties, and she met the challenge head-on. And Melody , of course, works behind the scenes helping me manage the business side of the office. As both my coworker and wife, she’s also my shoulder to lean on whenever things get rough. I don’t know what I’d do without her. Finally, I’m thankful for all of you, my patients, reading this newsletter. Many of you have been with this practice for the 40 years I’ve been practicing dentistry. I’m honored and humbled that you put your trust in me for so many years. When it’s time for me to retire (I’m not ready yet), I know I won’t miss dentistry as much as I’ll miss the relationships with you.

You’re all like family to me, and I’m sincerely grateful to have you in my life. I hope you have a peaceful and joyous holiday season, and I’ll see you in 2022.

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Creating a Holiday Masterpiece

How to Decorate Your Gingerbread House Like a Pro

One of the most popular holiday traditions has become making and decorating gingerbread houses. The tradition began in Germany in the early 1800s and originated from Grimm’s “Hansel and Gretel.” Some shy away from the idea of making their own gingerbread house, but have no fear — if the Germans did it in the early 1800s, so can you! To simplify things, many gingerbread houses come with baked pieces and a full decorating kit. This helps you have more time for the best part: the actual decorating! Each kit usually comes with fun candy and icing, so you can make something really kick-butt for the holidays! Icing will be your best friend. Think of it as the yummy glue that holds everything together while also acting as a colorful trim for your gingerbread house. However, because it’ll keep the house from falling, be sure to use a lot! WHY EARLY ORAL CANCER DETECTION MATTERS And How the VELscope Can Help

Spice drops also make for a great trim and “roofing,” just use icing to hold them in place. Alternate between colors or use a variety to make your house really pop. M&Ms are certainly a must-have for anyone decorating their gingerbread house. Not only are they delicious, but they also make cute, little accents all over the house and yard. Mini cookies of your choice may also make a deliciously good-looking roof. Try layering them up for a dimensional look! And, for extra pizazz, strategically place mini candy canes throughout the yard and on either side of the front doors and windows. If you want to get really detailed, try using actual candy bars as fire logs in the fireplace. Just be sure to store your gingerbread house in a cool area so nothing will melt!

Whether you prefer a simple gingerbread house or a flashy one, any and ALL candy can be used! Get decorating and be sure to have a bite of candy along the way!

About 50,000 oral cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year. While most oral cancers are very treatable if caught early, many are only detected once they’ve reached advanced stages. That’s why your dentist will always conduct an oral cancer screening as a part of your regular dental exam. Oral cancer can affect the tongue, lips, sinuses, throat, or any interior portion of the mouth. Men over 50 are at the highest risk, and men generally carry about twice the risk of oral cancer as women. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and a history of human papillomavirus (HPV). While tobacco and alcohol use are the largest controllable risk factors, about 25% of oral cancers occur in people who do not smoke and only use alcohol occasionally. Some oral cancers will have no symptoms, but you should always schedule a visit with Dr. Stuckey as soon as possible if you experience changes inside your mouth. Concerning oral changes include swelling, lumps, or bumps, unexplained bleeding, pain or numbness, and persistent sores on the face, neck, or mouth. During your visit to Briarfield Dental Care, Dr. Stuckey will perform a visual inspection for cancer and feel for any lumps or tissue changes. He’ll also use a tool called the VELscope, which helps detect abnormalities in the mouth that are invisible to the naked eye. The VELscope is a handheld tool that emits blue light into the mouth. The blue light causes the molecules in the mucus membrane to release their own light in shades of green, yellow, or red. While the VELscope can’t diagnose oral cancer, an abnormal fluorescence pattern can indicate that further investigation or testing is needed. Oral cancer screenings are just one of several reasons why you should make at least two dental visits per year. The earlier oral cancer is detected, the greater chance a patient will have of making a full recovery. If you notice any changes in your mouth, don’t hesitate to schedule a visit — when it comes to detecting cancer, you’re better safe than sorry.

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Always Remember to Floss Healthy Gums, Healthy Body

can increase the chance of getting blood clots. Eventually, if blood flow becomes too badly affected, a heart attack could occur. Lung Infections People with gum disease have more bacteria in their mouths than people who don’t. Lung and chest infections can occur by simply breathing in droplets of certain bacteria that can travel from the mouth to the lungs. In fact, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory illnesses can be tied back to gum disease. This creates a dangerous predicament for those with weakened immune systems since they already struggle fighting dangerous infections. Diabetes In general, people with diabetes are more likely to develop infections than other people. This includes

According to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nearly one-half of all Americans over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. This percentage only increases with age as 70% of people over the age of 65 suffer from this ailment. Taking care of your gums is extremely important because new reports come out every year tying gum disease to many illnesses and conditions that can affect other areas of your body. Here are a few: Heart Health Multiple studies have shown an association between gum disease and heart disease. While a direct cause and effect has not been proven, research suggests that gum disease increases the risk of heart disease. Bacteria from the mouth can find their way into the bloodstream and produce protein, which Have you heard about Kids’ Day? Once a month, Briarfield Dental Care throws a special celebration focused exclusively on our youngest patients. The office is transformed with fun decorations, and there are lots of prizes for kids who come in to join the fun. Plus, we have special spin brushes and offers on sealants and mouthguards only available during Kids’ Day. Don’t Miss Kids’ Day Jan. 17 Winter/Disney’s “Frozen” Feb. 21 Western: Cowboys and Cowgirls March 21 Dinosaur Day April 7 Circus Day May 12 Baseball Day

gum disease. In addition, gum disease can raise an individual’s blood sugar, putting people with diabetes at greater risk of further complications. Newer research has also shown that people with gum disease are more likely to develop diabetes. As more and more information comes out about gum disease and its effects on our bodies, it behooves us to keep our gums healthy and happy by developing one of the easiest and most effective habits: flossing every day. Simply flossing once a day can improve gum health rather quickly. If tenderness, gum recession, or swelling persist, it’s best to visit your dental provider for a checkup. It could save more than your teeth.

Dr. Stuckey’s Playlist

My Top 10 Albums In the previous newsletter, I shared my Nos. 11–20 favorite albums. Without further ado, I’d like to present the cream of the crop — the 10 albums I love most and are always in my rotation.

#10 U2, “Achtung Baby” #9 The Doors, “L.A. Woman” #8 Van Morrison, “Moondance” #7 Peter Gabriel, “Us” #6 Dire Straits, “Making Movies”

#5 Pink Floyd, “Wish You Were Here” #4 Bob Marley, “Legend” #3 The Beatles, “Abbey Road” #2 U2, “The Joshua Tree” #1 Eric Clapton, “Journeyman”

Even my family couldn’t guess my favorite record, but “Journeyman” is one I can listen to over and over again. I especially love the songs “Running on Faith” and “No Alibi.”

It was hard to whittle the list down and even harder to not second-guess myself. I’ve thought of several more albums that might have belonged in the Top 20, so perhaps I’ll have to revisit this project someday. If you have any strong opinions on my favorites, let me know during your next visit. As you know, I always love to talk music!

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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

3550 Briarfield Blvd, Suite 100 Maumee, OH 43537

Dr. Stuckey Recognizes His Staff

Decorate Your Gingerbread House Like a Pro How We Conduct Oral Cancer Screenings

Healthy Gums Create a Healthy Body

Dr. Stuckey’s Top 10 Albums

Congrats to Our Winner!

Congratulations to TJ Hunt! We are thankful for everyone that referred their friends and family!

What TJ won:

• Two game tickets for Jan. 15, 2022 — on the

glass, right between the team benches

• Two replica Toledo Walleye jerseys

• $50 in Walleye Money to redeem at any fanwear or food and beverage location

• Video board recognition during the game

• VIP transportation to and from the game (within a 15- mile radius of Huntington Center)

Stay tuned for our next referral giveaway!

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