Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center - April 2022

Texas Sedation Dental & Implant Center - April 2022

APRIL 2022

*NEW ADDRESS! TYLER

LONGVIEW

444 Forest Square Suite E Longview, TX 75605

1520 Rice Road Suite 100 Tyler, TX 75703

903-758-5551

903-597-2201

www.texassedationdental.com

DIVE IN HEAD FIRST

There Is Value inTakingThat Chance!

Life is too short! One of the biggest chances I’ve ever taken was opening up my own practice. The decision was met with anxiety, stress, and a major fear of the unknown. Would I succeed, or would I be like the vast majority of new business owners who fail within their first five years? I still remember my heart pounding out of my chest as Texas Sedation Dental became official. It was a risk I needed to take because far too many people spend countless hours wondering what to do with their lives instead of just going for it. I had to go for it! And, I’m so grateful I did! Sure, it was tough, demanding, time consuming, challenging, and intimidating, but as hockey legend Wayne Gretzky once said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” I’d rather strike out completely than have never tried at all. I needed to seize the opportunity and it paid off! April 23 is National Take a Chance Day, a day set aside to promote taking risks and giant leaps of faith. Even if the odds aren’t in your favor, there is always a chance that it’ll work out. The day reminds us that shying away from opportunities will keep us from success and prevent us from going anywhere in our lives. Whether you achieve what you originally set out to do or not, new doors open because you stuck your neck out and took that initial risk. Even if you stumble and fall, you will always gain experience and insight from failure. You’ll

static and never know what great experience you could have missed. While it may feel comfortable erring on the side of caution, don’t sell yourself short. Step outside of your comfort zone! You’ll overcome fears, feel less vulnerable in life, and find a sense of confidence you didn’t know you had — all because you took that risk. Don’t sit around while life passes you by, worrying about what could potentially happen. Sure, we may fail, fall on our faces, get sick, experience loss, or make massive mistakes. But when you sit around without making any moves, life goes on and you may face major regrets in the future. Live the life you have always dreamed of and go for it — what have you got to lose?

learn lessons that will better prepare you for the next time you decide to go for it. I believe there is no downside to trying — it’s always better than deciding to be passive and not try at all. Nothing can ever come of not making any moves. You will remain

I BELIEVE THERE IS NO DOWNSIDE TO TRYING — IT’S ALWAYS BETTER THAN DECIDING TO BE PASSIVE AND NOT TRY AT ALL.

-Dr. Travis Kendall

LONGVIEW - 903-758-5551 | TYLER - 903-597-2201

WWW.TEXASSEDATIONDENTAL.COM | 1

THE LATEST DENTAL FAD: NATURAL TOOTHPASTE

“Natural” personal care products are all the rage, and the trend has reached the dental care aisle. Many manufacturers now offer natural toothpaste as an alternative to the mainstream brands you grew up with. But what are the differences between natural and traditional toothpaste? And what do dentists have to say about this latest fad? As in many things, the definition of “natural” toothpaste depends on whom you ask. Some people argue that toothpaste is “natural” if it doesn’t contain the foaming agent sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS). Others, however, say that toothpaste isn’t natural if it contains fluoride, an agent used to help strengthen teeth. Fluoride has long been the subject to debate, but the American Dental Association calls it safe and effective at preventing tooth decay. Most dentists recommend its use and urge people to steer clear of fluoride-free toothpaste. In fact, some brands may even state right on the label that their product doesn’t prevent cavities. Outside of fresh breath, preventing tooth and gum disease is why we brush, so using a toothpaste that doesn’t prevent cavities makes little sense. SLS-free toothpaste, however, is a different matter. The chemical can irritate some people’s gums or skin. Soap and other cleaning products have caused us to associate foaming with cleanliness,

so most toothpaste manufacturers include SLS for consumers’ psychological benefit — not the health of their teeth. If it bothers you, feel free to ditch it. Unfortunately, many natural toothpaste brands use charcoal in their products. Researchers with the University of Maryland School of Dentistry have found no evidence that

charcoal-based toothpaste is effective or safe. More research is needed, but many dentists will discourage the use of charcoal toothpaste because it may wear down enamel. If you want to try natural toothpaste, start by considering the ingredients. Among dentists, the consensus is to avoid toothpaste that is made from charcoal, is fluoride-free, or has sugar. SLS-free products, on the other hand, are fair game. When in doubt, read the label carefully before putting a new toothpaste in your mouth. Or even better, strike up a conversation with your dentist during your next appointment.

The Aging Mouth

4 COMMON DENTAL PROBLEMS FOR SENIORS

GUM DISEASE While gum disease is a risk for everyone — it’s commonly caused by the bacteria that hangs out in plaque and tartar — it’s even more common in the elderly. Some symptoms of gum disease include red, swollen, or potentially bleeding gums as well as pain at the gumline. Gingivitis, which is the inflammation of gums due to bacteria buildup can develop into gum disease.

As we age, our teeth and mouths age with us. So, while we get wiser with age, we need to remember that our mouths need some extra TLC to stay healthy. After many years of chewing, gnashing, and general wear and tear on our teeth, along with a potential decrease in dental care, complications are more likely to arise. Here are some of the most common oral issues humans may experience in their older years. TOOTH DECAY According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 96% of adults aged 65 and older have had a cavity in their lifetime and 1 in 5 currently have untreated tooth decay, which is usually caused by a buildup of tartar and plaque. While our diets (especially those high in sugary foods) play a large role in a buildup of acid in our mouths, medical conditions, which appear more often as we age, can also be to blame. For example, many who suffer fromdementia may forget to brush their teeth. For those with arthritis, brushing can be painful and difficult. DRY MOUTH The older we get, the less saliva our bodies produce. Dry mouth is extremely common among the elderly, and many medications can make dry mouth even worse. When our mouths have less saliva, sugar and acid build up more easily, putting us at an increased risk of tooth decay and cavities.

ORAL CANCER As with other forms of cancer, oral

cancer also poses a threat to the older folks, especially if you smoke or drink on a regular basis. That is why regular dental checkups are important to maintain as we enter our golden years. Always remember to have any ulcers, sores, or color changes in your mouth checked out! Age, medications, and declining health can all make caring for our mouths and teeth a little bit more difficult, but it’s so important to keep up with our oral health to avoid serious health problems that may result from an infection or sore in your mouth. As the years go by, don’t forget to brush twice a day and attend your regular dental cleanings! Your health depends on it!

2 | WWW.TEXASSEDATIONDENTAL.COM

LONGVIEW - 903-758-5551

Inspired by LiveEatLearn.com Hard-boiled eggs are essential for Easter, so why not transform them into a healthy appetizer? HEALTHIER, LIGHTER DEVILED EGGS

Proper oral care is crucial, no matter If you have natural teeth, dental implants, or a combination of both! After a dental implant procedure (and indefinitely), it’s important to look after your implants just as you would your natural teeth. While your dental implants are healing, you will likely have more dental visits and a rigid care routine until your body gets used to the change and recovers from the procedure! In fact, how well you care for your implants and attend regular cleanings and checkup appointments will greatly affect how long they last. When dental implants are neglected, they can develop tartar and plaque buildup as well as an infestation of bacteria, which increases the likelihood of developing gum disease down the road. If this problem is left untreated, it can potentially lead to peri-implantitis, a condition similar to gum disease in which bacteria damage the teeth and gums of patients with implants. Some symptoms of peri- implantitis include bleeding, soreness, pain, and potential bone loss around the dental implants. Poor oral care can also lead to an infection, which can spread to other areas of your body over time and affect your overall health. That is why regular checkups with your dental care provider are crucial to help detect problems and concerns early. Many times, patients believe that because implants are artificial, their cleaning regime doesn’t need to be as vigorous. But this is far from true as plaque and bacteria are able to attack an artificial tooth and root just as easily as a natural one! Don’t neglect your body — take care of your teeth and dental implants! Caring for Your Mouth After Dental Implants Are Checkups and Cleanings Still Necessary?

• 6 large eggs • 3 tbsp Greek yogurt • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • 1 tsp lemon juice INGREDIENTS

• Optional: Hot sauce, to taste • Optional: Paprika and chives, chopped, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large pot, add eggs and cover with water. Put on high heat, and then boil eggs for 10 minutes. 2. Once boiled, peel eggs by gently tapping and removing the shell. (Adding the eggs to an ice bath after boiling can make this task easier.) 3. Cut eggs lengthwise and place yolks into a medium mixing bowl. Set egg white halves open side up on a plate. 4. In a bowl, combine yolks, yogurt, mustard, lemon juice, and hot sauce (if desired) until smooth. 5. Transfer the yolk mixture into the egg white halves. Garnish with paprika and chives if desired.

TAKE A BREAK

Bloom Cleaning Earth Easter Flowers Fool Prank Ramadan Recycle Spring Teacher Venus

WWW.TEXASSEDATIONDENTAL.COM | 3

TYLER - 903-597-2201

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

LONGVIEW - 903-758-5551 TYLER - 903-597-2201 WWW.TEXASSEDATIONDENTAL.COM

444 FOREST SQUARE, SUITE E LONGVIEW, TX 75605

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

1 2

NationalTake a Chance Day

Are NaturalToothpastes Safe and Effective?

Common Oral Health Concerns for the Elderly

3

Dental Implant Care

Healthier, Lighter Deviled Eggs

4

Welcome SpringWith Open Arms

Have you ever noticed that springtime just feels lighter and brighter? That’s because, believe it or not, the seasons affect us. When spring rolls around, the energy shifts, and it’s up to us to maximize those positive vibes. Let’s examine how we can make the most of spring and inject some color and vibrancy into our lives again after a long winter. RELY ON COLOR. Colors have the ability to elicit certain emotions and feelings. Tropical tones and pastels are everywhere in spring — the clear sky, grass, and flowers — so allow them to fill your space and take them with you as constant reminders to smile. If you’re up for it, wear some new colors to brighten up your wardrobe, and don’t forget to take in a sunset when you’re able! ENJOY MORE HOURS OF DAYLIGHT. Spring brings more hours of sunlight and warming temperatures that can give you more time to enjoy your morning cup of coffee outside. You can take an early stroll around the block, get in a 4 Ways to Harvest Positive Vibes in Spring GET SPRUNG

workout outdoors, or just enjoy the fresh air. Also, many areas observe daylight saving time, which extends sunlight into the evening, so no matter how you choose to spend your extra daylight, make it an adventure.

WELCOME SPRING- CLEANING.

It isn’t called spring-cleaning for nothing! Decluttering, dusting, reorganizing, and tidying up feels great! It’s empowering and refreshing. There is something special about creating more space in your living space that gets the positivity flowing. EAT FRESH, COLORFUL FOODS. During spring, many delicious fruits and vegetables come into season. Berries, oranges, apples, carrots, avocados, cherries, spinach, and kale are all at their peak. Your local farmers market is a great place to get the freshest produce to fuel your body!

Spring is a time for new beginnings and positivity. Make the most of this spring season by welcoming a fresh abundance of love and life.

4 | WWW.TEXASSEDATIONDENTAL.COM

LONGVIEW - 903-758-5551 | TYLER - 903-597-2201