2023 & 2022 Brochure Extra Information & more

Answers to Quiz Questions

True, The Average woman smiles 7 to 8 times more than the average male.

True, Bite correction and smile enhancement can occur at any age.  There are things that can interfere with treatment such as sleep apnea devices and certain medical conditions.

True, Sports Guards are very important.  Although, severe trauma may still cause damage it will lessen the severity.

False, Toothpicks are most commonly choked on.

False, replacing a missing tooth is very important.  When a tooth is lost and not replaced the remaining teeth are stressed by performing functions they weren't intended to do.  Additionally, teeth will likely shift which can cause future problems for the jaw joint and teeth.

False, if you are right-handed, you will likely favor the right side for chewing. 

False, it's very important to share upcoming and past surgeries.  Prosthetic joint and heart surgeries top the list, you should never assume it isn't important to share.  Frequently, antibiotic premedication is necessary for all dental visits including a dental cleaning.  Let us know before your appointment.

True, humans have been grinding away their teeth now than before but unfortunately, we do not get new molars like the elephants do. 

Things you should be shredding:

1. Magazines and Catalogs

No, you don’t have to shred the entire thing, but rip off the personalized label before you toss them in the recycle bin. For catalogs, check the interior order form to make sure it hasn’t been preprinted with your name, address, and customer or account number. Some catalogs do that to make it easier for you to place an order, but unfortunately it makes identity theft and fraud easier too.

2.  Old Checks

Any type of payment or receipt with account numbers.  Exercise extra caution when cleaning out and decluttering as information we need to protect today was once provided freely.

3. Signatures

Anything with your official signature—even if it’s a birthday card—should be shredded. That includes receipts and all official documents.

4. Travel Documents

Travel itineraries can tell criminals not only your personal information and payment details, but also the exact dates when you’ll be away from home. Keep your travel plans away from prying eyes by shredding travel itineraries, boarding passes, and luggage tags.

5. Envelopes

Make sure any envelope that displays your name and address is shredded for safety.

6. Junk Mail

One man’s junk is another man’s treasure, and that is certainly the case for unsolicited mail, which can hide a wealth of personal data that can be used to appropriate your identity or open accounts in your name. Be sure to shred all junk mail to be sure none of it falls into the wrong hands.

7. Personal Letters

You know how some financial institutions require you to answer several “security questions” as an additional way to keep your account safe? Questions often involve things like your favorite TV show, high school mascot, first car, childhood pet, etc. Your personal correspondence may include some of this information, and in the wrong hands could be used to attempt to access your accounts, or even set up an account in your name.

8. Anything Involving Your Child

When it comes to identity theft, children are extra vulnerable because most parents don’t think to check their child’s credit report, so a lot of financial damage can be done before anyone discovers the crime. Be sure to shred anything that contains identifying information about your child, including medical documents, school forms, report cards, and transcripts.

9. Resumes

Your name, address, and entire education and career history—a treasure trove of information for a criminal. Be sure to store current resumes in a safe place, and shred outdated ones.

10. Packing Receipts and Labels

Take an extra minute to peel off and shred those pre-printed address labels from packages you’ve received before you recycle the boxes. And always shred packing receipts—many have bar codes containing personal information, or reference credit card numbers or other payment details in addition to your name and address.

Give someone a "Hug".

Hugs lower your blood pressure and heart rate, while also improving cardiovascular function. Hugs decrease the release of cortisol, making you less stressed and allowing for improved sleep. Hugs boost oxytocin in our bodies, which is associated with feeling happier.

Happy 18th Birthday!

When a child turns 18, some parental responsibilities change, others remain. When your child turns 18, it doesn't mean that you quit providing the love, instruction and guidance that they still need. However, in the eyes of the law, you no longer have the same legal responsibilities or legal privileges that you once had. It has all happened so quickly!  It's likely you do not have a family attorney who can direct you.   

When your child turns 18, there are many things to look forward to: graduation ceremonies, bright futures, and moving out of your house (eventually). However, one thing you may not be aware of is how the magic age of 18 suddenly turns your "child" into an adult under the law.

How to Access Your Adult Child's Information

Because they are "adults" under the law, you no longer have access to their medical, financial, and educational records. And there is no guarantee you can make their medical or financial decisions if they are unable due to incapacity, even if you continue to support them. Fortunately, there are ways to access your child's information and help them if they are unable. Here are some common issues and legal documents to help:

HIPAA Waiver

In 1996, Congress passed the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Part of that act prohibits health care professionals and facilities from releasing private medical information without your prior authorization. Since your child is an adult, they are the ones who now authorize the release. Therefore, if you call their doctor to renew a prescription on their behalf, the doctor cannot talk to you. Your child, however, can complete a HIPAA Waiver authorizing you to speak to their doctor. Each doctor or medical facility will have its own release form. You may also find a general release form on the internet.

FERPA Release

When your child is in school, you have a right to their educational records under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). On your child's 18th birthday, or if they attend a school after high school, that right transfers to your child. Therefore, you can't access your child's education records. Yes, you read that correctly. Even if you are funding your child's college education 100%, you can't see their grades if they don't want you to. Your child must permit you to get information on their academic records. To do this, they sign a FERPA release form authorizing you to access their education records. There is no standard FERPA release form. Your child's college may have its own release form that your child signs. However, if your child does not consent but is still your dependent, you may show proof of their dependent status with your tax return.

Health Care Power of Attorney

A medical or health care power of attorney allows your child to designate you as their health care agent. Therefore, if your child is incapacitated and can't make health care decisions, you have access to their medical records and can make health care and treatment decisions. Some health care power of attorney forms include an advance medical directive (also known as a living will) where your child states their preferences for care if they have a terminal or end-stage condition where death is imminent. A health care power of attorney is essential if they are in another state or location from you. You can send a copy to the health care facility to enable you to handle their health care decisions. In the heartbreaking event your child is dying, you can follow their end-of-life wishes in their living will.

Financial Power of Attorney

A financial power of attorney lets your child name you as their power of attorney to access their bank accounts and handle their finances if they are unable. They specify when this authority begins, either immediately or upon their incapacity. If your child is incapacitated, you have permission to handle their financial transactions and keep up with bills and taxes.

Last Will and Testament

It may seem strange that an 18-year-old young adult may need a will. What do they have to give? However, if an adult dies without a will, they are "intestate." That means the state decides on the distribution of their estate. A will reduces costs by speeding up the probate process. And your child can name you as the personal representative to handle their estate.

It can be overwhelming but necessary to consider.

Cholesterol 

 Cholesterol is typically measured utilizing HDL & LDL blood levels along with high blood pressure.  One other measurement you might consider is homocysteine.  This can be included in your bloodwork.  Homocysteine is a type of amino acid, if elevated it can contribute to arterial damage and blood clots in your blood vessels.

Cholesterol Lowering Vitamins

1. Niacin (B3)

2. Psyllium

3. Fish Oil

4. Garlic

5. B12

6. Folate

FOODS TO AVOID IF YOU HAVE HIGH CHOLESTEROL

COCONUT OIL, BACON, FATTY PORK SAUSAGE, FROZEN PIZZA, SODA POP, WHITE BREAD, RIBEYE STEAK, MOVIE THEATER POPCORN, BUTTER, CHICKEN WINGS, FRIED FRENCH FRIES, BISCUITS, PIE CRUST, ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS AND GRAPEFRUIT (Can interfere with your cholesterol medication.)

High cholesterol is usually treated based on total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol levels, plus the presence of additional risk factors for heart disease.

While some risk factors cannot be changed, others can.  Heart attack risk factors may include:

Of these, you can take action on not using tobacco (or quitting if you do use tobacco), being active, eating a healthy diet, and losing excess weight. You can also take medications to keep high blood pressure and/or diabetes under control.