Flax Dental - March 2022

Flax Dental - March 2022

404-255-9080 | www.flaxdental.com

March 2022

Why I Care So Much About Patient Comfort And Now Introducing … Laser Therapy!

is crucial to our quality of care. We try to customize every visit to make our patients more comfortable. In more involved procedures, we can often operate without anesthesia, which decreases the amount of medication a patient requires afterward. Now, we can significantly reduce a patient’s pain even more with a technique that’s been popular in physical therapy and only recently brought into dentistry: photobiomodulation, aka light or laser therapy. Laser therapy has been popular for treating athletes and physical therapy patients for years due to its ability to temporarily relieve pain and decrease inflammation. Some studies show that they may even help wounds heal more quickly by stimulating tissue regeneration. It works by sending different wavelengths and outputs of light into a targeted area. When your body absorbs this light, the red and near infrared light cause a reaction, and damaged cells respond with a physiological reaction that promotes regeneration. The best part? Our laser therapy technique is perfectly painless and noninvasive! With no sound, vibration, or heat, every treatment only takes a few minutes.

I feel pretty good about being a dentist. When I wake up, I look forward to providing my patients the best care possible. So, when a patient comes to me and says, “No offense, Doc, but I hate going to the dentist,” that doesn’t really put me down. In fact, it does the opposite; it reminds me why I do what I do. I became a dentist after my mother’s traumatic dental experiences. When she finally found a great dentist, her life changed. She got her smile back. Every morning, I say to myself, “How can I slay the dragons of fear that prevent people from going to the dentist?” My team and I have developed a very respectful and gentle approach to patients over the years because we believe a relaxing experience For this month, we want to know: What do you do to stay optimistic? Tell us on Facebook and you can win a $50 Audible gift card! Submit your answer to our Facebook page today at Facebook.com/FlaxDental .

No matter how fearful you might be of the dentist, I want you to know I think about you and people like you every day. It’s part of my mission. When I started dentistry school, the percentage of Americans who don’t go to the dentist was around 50%. Sadly, those numbers haven’t budged too much over the years. Part of the reason is cost (even if the cost is always higher if you don’t go). But the most common reason is people’s terrible past experiences with dentists that create a pessimistic view of their future dental experiences. My mother’s experiences were no exception. In honor of Optimism Month, however, I’m optimistic that — in the same way her perspective was changed by one good dentist — I can change your perspective, too.

–Hugh Flax

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It’s More Than Just Tidying Up

4 Health Benefits of Spring-Cleaning

Spring-cleaning helps you breathe better.

Sunday, March 20, is the first day of spring — which means it’s time for some spring-cleaning. Did you know that cleaning is not just about tidying up a physical space? It’s also about improving overall well-being. Here’s how organization and cleanliness can help you in more ways than you might expect. Spring-cleaning reduces stress and depression. Tidiness and mental health are actually connected. Studies have found that having a clean home is directly correlated to happiness and your ability to focus. Anxiety can spike when laundry is piling up, items are strewn everywhere, and papers get scattered on various surfaces within the home. Clearing the clutter is a great way to boost your mood and increase those feel-good hormones. It prevents illnesses. Doorknobs, refrigerator handles, light switches, countertops, and remote controls are all things we touch many times a day. Cleaning anything that’s used often is one way to reduce the spread of germs. By keeping household surfaces clean, we help thwart the spread of viruses and illnesses.

Spring often brings pollen that triggers allergies for many. But pollen isn’t the only thing to blame when people have difficulty breathing. When dust and

pet dander build up in your home, your respiratory system is greatly affected too. Deep-cleaning your air filters and vents can make breathing effortless — and it’s truly amazing how this can improve your well-being. It keeps you more active. Off the couch and on your feet! Even just running the vacuum and clearing the clutter from the dining room table will get you up and moving, which is healthy for your heart and body. This spring season, putting some elbow grease into your cleaning will benefit you in more ways than one. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Good News The

We’ve Gone Viral! Why Your 5-Star Google Reviews Have Made a Difference

When it comes to a dental practice’s reputation, Google relies on your reviews to tell the story of our quality of care, staff, and treatment. With more high-rated reviews, it’s more likely that patients researching for a practice to perfectly fit their needs will find our name.

is amazing! The front office is great and makes sure your visit is seamless. Faith and Chelsea are two of the best hygienists I’ve had. Dr. Flax and the rest of the staff are accommodating, communicative, and incredible at what they do!” –Michael C.  Thanks so much for your support, and please feel free to continue leaving us your thoughts about our services. One of the best compliments you can give us, besides a Google review, is a referral, so don’t forget to tell your friends and family and tell them to say you sent them! (We’ll be sure to express our gratitude!)

That’s why your Google reviews mean the world to us — and have led to our perfect five-star Google rating! Here are just a few reviews that helped take us there.

2 404-255-9080 | www.flaxdental.com detail and takes care of any problems (bite issues, etc.) before anything else is done. I am 150% happy with my care and feel like I’ve been in the BEST hands from the beginning. I love my smile and I highly recommend Dr. Flax and his amazing team!” –Heidi F.  “I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Flax and his team. From my cleanings with Faith to the smallest details of Dr. Flax’s work, he truly cares about the health of your teeth and makes such a difference. He explains everything in such

“My experience over the last three years with Flax Dental has exceeded expectations from day one. The staff is consistently [courteous] and accommodating. I am very partial to my hygienist, Faith, as her positive and joyful attitude is infectious. I plan to be with them for the long haul and highly recommend them for anyone who sets high standards for dental services.” –Jason D.  “Flax Dental is the best dental office I’ve been to personally. They prioritize patient care and experience. The staff

The History of Coach K A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten As we approach March Madness, it means this basketball season is coming to a close. For Duke University’s men’s basketball team, it also means their head coach, Mike Krzyzewski (Coach K), will be retiring. On June 2, 2021, Coach

Our Patients Refer the Best Patients

“Faith is wonderful and always does a great job. The staff is always helpful and knowledgeable. Dr. Flax is one of the most talented dentists I have worked with.” –Tony E.

K announced that the 2021–2022 basketball season would be his last year of coaching. In honor of one of the greatest coaches in basketball history, let’s take a look at Coach K’s history and accomplishments.

Easy March Madness Chili

Coach K was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1947. He attended the United States Military Academy at West Point and was the captain of their basketball

team during his senior year. After graduating, he served as an officer in the U.S. Army in 1969 and was discharged from active duty in 1974. Soon thereafter, he began his coaching career as an assistant coach for the Indiana Hoosiers. After one year, he returned to West Point as head coach of the Army Cadets for five seasons. Then, in 1980, he was named head coach for Duke University’s men’s basketball team. Coach K has been the head coach for Duke for 42 years and has left a huge legacy. He coached the USA men’s national basketball team to three gold medals, in 2008, 2012, and 2016. With the Duke Blue Devils, he has the most wins in NCAA Division I men’s basketball history. In 2015, he also became the first Division I men’s basketball coach to reach 1,000 wins. His Duke teams have won 15 ACC Championships, gone to 12 Final Fours, and won five NCAA National Championships. Paired with his impressive coaching history, Coach K also has some awards under his belt. He was awarded the ACC Coach of the Year in 1984, 1986, 1997, 1999, and 2000. Time Magazine and CNN named him as America’s Best Coach in 2001. In November 2000, the hardwood floor in Duke’s gym was dedicated and renamed Coach K’s Court, and the area surrounding the outside of the gym was named Krzyzewskiville. The question on every basketball fan’s mind is this: Who will be Duke’s new head coach? The university has already announced that Coach K’s longtime assistant coach, Jon Scheyer, will replace him. Scheyer used to play for Duke in 2011–2013. Coach Mike Krzyzewski will be missed by Duke fans and basketball fans around the country. His presence and legacy will forever reign in basketball history.

Cheer on your favorite team and chow down in minutes with this easy chili recipe!

Ingredients • 2 lbs ground beef • 2 tbsp chili powder • 1 tbsp Creole seasoning • 1 tsp ground cumin • 2 16-oz cans diced tomatoes • 2 16-oz cans small red beans • 2 8-oz cans tomato sauce

Directions

1. In a deep pot, brown the beef, stirring often. 2. Once beef is cooked, add chili powder, Creole seasoning, and cumin, cooking for 1 minute. 3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, and tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a boil. 4. After the mixture boils, reduce the heat to low and let chili simmer for 15 minutes. 5. Serve with toppings of choice, like cheese, sour cream, or chives.

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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

5673 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd. Ste. 430, Atlanta, GA 30342 404-255-9080 www.flaxdental.com

Want a Brighter, More Confident Smile? Don’t Know Where to Start? Give Our Office A Call! We Pride Ourselves On Giving Patients Stunning Smiles, All Treatment Long! Call: 404-255-9080

Inside

Remember: Whether you have dental insurance benefits remaining, or leftover funds in your flexible spending account (FSA) or health care saving account (HSA), nearly all plans won’t allow you to roll them over to the following year. Schedule an appointment at Flax Dental today.

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Your Comfort Is Everything to Us

Get Healthy While Spring-Cleaning!

We’ve Gone Viral!

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Duke University’s Head Coach Is Retiring

Easy March Madness Chili

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Create a Keepsake for Good Luck Year Round

Make a 4-Leaf Clover Keepsake

But Find the Elusive Good-Luck Charm First

eyeing a four-leaf clover because the different patterns, shapes, and sizes of these clovers will jump out at you. If you find one, keep looking! There’s a chance another one might be nearby. Clover Craft Once you find your clover, preserve the luck in it all year by placing it in a picture frame. First, gently press the clover leaves between the pages of a large book for several days to flatten them out. After pressing, you can add green food coloring to your clover to enhance its color. Once it’s dry, clean it and let it sit overnight. Then, place your clover onto acid-free paper, cut to fit the size of a picture frame of your choice. Next, use acid- free glue to keep your clover in place, and finally, seal your frame shut. You now have your personal good luck charm! Searching for a four-leaf clover and creating a keepsake will be a great bonding experience for you and your family. We wish you luck! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

One of St. Patrick’s Day’s most popular symbols is a four-leaf clover. In Ireland, these clovers represent luck and good fortune. Each leaf

on the clover has a different meaning — faith, hope, love, and success. It’s a tradition to find a four-leaf clover on St. Patrick’s Day and do activities involving this lucky leaf. So, how do you find these good-luck charms, and what can you do with them? How to Find a 4-Leaf Clover Although it may seem difficult, it’s easier than you might think. First, find a dense patch of white clover — near it is where four-leaf clovers reside.

They are different from the rest and are often smaller, so keep that in mind when you look for the lucky green clovers. Instead of staring at the patch in close detail and counting leaves, search the patch without focusing on the tiny details. This increases the odds of

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