Your Dental Office News, June 16, 2024: Happy Father’s Day, Dental Diversity Month, Frederick Pride

As the school year wraps up and summer begins, we hope you’re taking some time to relax and enjoy the sunshine. While you’re at it, dive into our latest newsletter! We’ve packed it with exciting updates and helpful tips just for you!

In this issue, we’re celebrating Dental Diversity Month by recognizing the unique dental needs across our community. Looking forward, we’re making it easier for you to get ready for Plastic Free July, with our tips to reduce plastic waste and embrace sustainability. This month, we’re also honoring our everyday heroes with a special Father’s Day shoutout, and inviting you to join us at Frederick Pride. Plus, don’t miss our Recipe of the Month featuring the best burgers ever, perfect for your summer cookouts! 

So grab a cold drink, kick back, and take a moment to catch up with us. We promise it’ll be worth your time!

In This Issue:

  • Embracing Dental Diversity Month
  • Get Prepared for Plastic Free July
  • Out-of-Network Insurance? Yes, we can still see you!
  • Happy Father’s Day
  • Join Us at Frederick Pride!
  • Toothbrushes: Electric or Manual? Fast Facts
  • Recipe of the Month: Best Burgers Ever
  • YouTube Channel
  • Please Leave us a Review!

Embracing Dental Diversity Month

In June we celebrate and recognize dental diversity, but what exactly is it, and why is it important?

Dental diversity in effect means “different strokes for different folks.” Not only is each person different, but there are other factors that influence oral health and dental care, such as cultural background, socioeconomic status, and ethnicity. Embracing dental diversity means recognizing that each person’s oral health needs are shaped by genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, access to care, and cultural practices.

The study of dental diversity significantly influences dental treatment approaches, outcomes, and patient experiences. Here’s how:

  • Anatomical Variations: People have different types of teeth, which can be different in size, shape, and position. Dentists need to think about these differences when they are fixing teeth, putting on braces, or performing dental surgery. For example, someone with smaller teeth might need special fillings or braces made just for them to get the best results.
  • Treatment Planning: Because every person’s teeth are different, dentists need to make special plans for each patient. They think about the shape of the teeth, how they fit together, and the person’s past dental health. By doing this, dentists can make sure the treatment works best for each person and meets their needs and expectations.
  • Cultural Considerations: People’s cultural beliefs, practices, and preferences affect how they feel about dental treatment. Dentists should be respectful and aware of different cultures when talking to patients from various backgrounds. By understanding these cultural differences, dentists can build trust and communicate better, making the treatment process smoother.
  • Language and Communication: Language differences can make it hard for dentists and patients to talk to each other, especially in places with many cultures. Dentists should use tools like interpreter services, multilingual staff, or pictures to help overcome these language problems. This way, patients can clearly understand their treatment choices, procedures, and care instructions after treatment.
  • Socioeconomic Factors: Money differences can affect how people get dental care and make treatment decisions. Patients who don’t have much money might struggle to pay for treatments or may not have good insurance. This can make it hard for them to get the care they need. Dentists should think about these financial issues when talking about treatment options and offer solutions that fit the patient’s budget.
  • Preventive Care and Education: Everyone is different and it’s important for dentists to give personalized advice on how to take care of their teeth. Dentists should teach patients about good brushing and flossing habits, healthy eating, and lifestyle choices that affect oral health. They need to think about each person’s culture and financial situation, which can affect how well they follow this advice. By helping patients learn how to take care of their teeth, dentists can improve their oral health and reduce the need for more serious treatments.

By acknowledging and embracing dental diversity, we foster inclusivity, improve oral health outcomes, and work to ensure that dental care is accessible and tailored to the needs of all individuals. Call us today to find out more about how we can help you get the dental care you deserve.

Get Prepared for Plastic Free July

There’s been a lot of hoopla lately about the amount of microplastics that are currently in the air, oceans, and in our food and potable water. To help you prepare in advance for the worldwide “Plastic Free July” campaign – and when you read about microplastics you may want to participate – we’re talking about it in June.

Microplastics are fragments of any type of plastic less than 5 mm (0.20 in) in length. 

Some products are purposefully made that size – glitter, for example, or microbeads used in cosmetic products (see https://skinconsult.com/en/blog/microplastics-in-cosmetics/ ). The majority of microplastics, however, result from the degradation of trashed larger pieces of plastic, such as water and soda bottles, plastic bags, and clothes made of polyester.

Because plastics degrade slowly (often over hundreds to thousands of years), microplastics have a high probability of ingestion, incorporation into, and accumulation in the bodies and tissues of many organisms, such as fish and crustaceans (https://restoreactscienceprogram.noaa.gov/miscellaneous/microplastics-in-deep-sea-stomachs-study-finds-plastic-eaten-by-fish-and-crustaceans-increases-with-depth-in-the-gulf-of-mexico ). 

Microplastics are sharp and irregularly shaped, and can lodge themselves in the human body. They have been found in tissues, in blood and in semen, in organs including the placenta, heart, liver, bowels and even in the brain. The health effects of microplastics in our bodies are only beginning to be investigated, but this stuff can’t be good for us. A recent study determined that people who had tiny plastic particles lodged in a key blood vessel were more likely to experience heart attack, stroke or death during a three-year study. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-00650-3

Every time we grab a new plastic bag or baggie, use plastic wrap, use a plastic straw, or drink from a plastic water bottle, we’re contributing to the problem. Not only will the plastic degrade when tossed, but the food that has touched the plastic is also contaminated. 

We are figuratively wrapped in plastic, and to completely eliminate plastics from our lives would require a major effort. But we can start by getting educated. Just for fun, google “plastic wrapping microplastic” and see what pops up. Or read this Washington Post article (not paywalled): https://wapo.st/4b2MuDt. Or this study about microplastics in protein sources. https://www.food-safety.com/articles/9153-study-finds-little-difference-between-plastic-in-seafood-meat-and-plant-based-proteinsits-all-contaminated

Ugly. What can we do about it?

Each year’s Plastic Free July campaign focuses on small changes that each of us can make to reduce plastic waste, under the slogan “Small steps, big difference”. Each year millions of Plastic Free July participants from over 190 countries make a big difference by refusing to take home single-use plastic. An astonishing 10 billion kgs of household waste has been avoided by participants over the last five years because millions of people choose to make a change for cleaner streets, healthy oceans, and beautiful communities or just to do the right thing.

Choose one single-use plastic to avoid or take the pledge to avoid single-use cups, plastic drink bottles, or plastic food wrap. These “Top 3” items are single-use plastic items we commonly use each day that can be easily replaced by:

  • Refilling reusable water bottles from the tap
  • Bringing a reusable cup and a reusable straw to the coffee shop
  • Switching from plastic wrap to reusable containers or wax wraps.

Find out more at https://www.plasticfreejuly.org/ and sign up to take the challenge!

Out-of-Network Insurance? Yes, we can still see you!

Did you know that if you have a PPO dental insurance plan, you can see any dentist you choose? Even if we’re out-of-network with your PPO insurance, you can still receive benefits when you come to our office. Your PPO insurance WILL cover your dental visit with us – and, depending on your plan and provider, sometimes even as much as 100%! (This is not applicable to HMOs or DMOs.)

Here are some common questions that we get asked about out-of-network insurances:

Why don’t you participate with my insurance?

Choosing which insurance plans to participate with has always been a difficult business decision. We are committed to providing our patients with top quality care and taking our time with each patient. When we’re in-network with dental Insurance companies, they restrict the dental care they are willing to pay for. Regardless of whether or not we’re in-network with your insurance, we are always happy to look into your benefits to see how they will work in our practice. Contact us to find out how your out-of-network benefits can be used with us. 

What am I going to have to pay?

Even when we’re in-network with an insurance plan, we’re not always sure how the plan will pay. Every plan is different and we’re happy to look into your benefits to find out how they can apply. We will always give you our best estimate at the time of service or if you need a more detailed explanation of your costs we can submit a pre-treatment estimate.

Do I have to file out-of-network claims myself?

No, we’ll take care of all of that for you! However, depending on your plan – you may have to pay us in full at the time of service and be reimbursed by your plan. Some out-of-network insurance providers won’t release payment directly to us. We’ll let you know the details of how payments will be handled, from you and the insurance company, after we research your benefits.

What financing do you offer?

We offer both Cherry, and Care Credit. Depending on the plan you choose with them, your interest rate can be as low as 0%, and even if not 0% certainly lower than credit card rates. We’re happy to discuss your financial needs so that we can best assist you.

Happy Father’s Day

Let’s take a moment to honor and celebrate all the incredible father figures in our lives! Fatherhood comes in many forms, each one a testament to the love, guidance, and support that strengthens our families and communities.

Whether you are a biological father, stepdad, adoptive dad, foster father, or a father figure, you are our heroes. Single dads, your resilience and dedication are truly inspiring. Fathers in same-sex partnerships, you show us that family is built on love and acceptance. To fathers who have lost children, your enduring love and strength are deeply honored. For those remembering their fathers, we celebrate the cherished memories of the heroes who are no longer with us. Fathers-to-be, we look forward to the new adventures and challenges you will embrace.

On this special day, let’s express our gratitude and appreciation for all the dads who make a difference in our lives. Wishing you a joyful and heartfelt Father’s Day!

Join us at Frederick Pride!

We’re thrilled to be the only medical office represented at Frederick Pride this year! It’s an amazing opportunity to engage with our vibrant community, and we can’t wait to connect with all of you.

Frederick Pride will be held on Saturday, June 22nd from 11am to 6pm at Carroll Creek Park in Downtown Frederick.Find out more here: https://www.visitfrederick.org/event/frederick-pride/7198/

Exciting News: We’re hosting a raffle with three fantastic Visa gift card prizes!
Just follow us on social media or sign up for our newsletter for a chance to win:

  • 1st Prize: $500
  • 2nd Prize: $250
  • 3rd Prize: $100

Stop by our booth to say hi, learn more about our services, and enter the raffle. We look forward to seeing you and celebrating together at Frederick Pride!

Toothbrushes: Electrical or Manual? Fast Facts

Is it true that electric toothbrushes are better than manual toothbrushes for your teeth? Yes… and no.

Electric toothbrushes are generally more effective than manual toothbrushes at removing dental plaque and reducing gingivitis, according to various studies. A 2014 review found that using an electric toothbrush for three months led to a 21% reduction in plaque and an 11% reduction in gingivitis. Oscillating-rotating brushes might be slightly more effective than sonic ones.

However, experts emphasize that proper brushing technique is crucial, regardless of the type of toothbrush used. Effective brushing, with the right technique, can make manual toothbrushes just as efficient. Electric toothbrushes are beneficial for those with dexterity issues and typically come with features like timers and pressure sensors to aid proper brushing.

Here’s a break-down of the general technique needed when using manual or electric toothbrushes. You can also ask your hygienist at your next dental check-up for one on one instruction. 

For manual toothbrushes, use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle. The bristles should splay across your tooth for better coverage. Hold the bristles at a 45-degree angle toward your gum line and don’t be afraid to brush your gums too. Use light pressure and sweep the brush in a circular motion away from the gum line. Start in one corner with the upper teeth  and brush the front from one side to the other, then repeat on the back side and the biting surface. Repeat again on the bottom – front, back, biting. Don’t forget behind the teeth all the way in the back! You should spend about 30 seconds per quadrant of your mouth or 2 minutes total.

For electric toothbrushes, you’ll use a similar technique, but because the head is moving – you don’t need circular sweeping motions. Just hold the head steady and use light pressure moving from tooth to tooth. Some brushes have a timer to let you know when you’ve finished each quadrant, but if not keep your own time. 

Ultimately, the best toothbrush is one that the user is comfortable with and uses correctly, as improper techniques can lead to gum damage and tooth issues. Consulting with a dental professional can help determine the best option and ensure proper brushing habits.

Did you know? Toothbrush trivia!

  • The first known toothbrushes date back to around 3500-3000 BC when the Babylonians and Egyptians used frayed twigs to clean their teeth. Ancient Chinese civilizations used chew sticks made from aromatic tree twigs.
  • According to dental experts, you should replace your toothbrush or toothbrush head every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
  • Most people are right-handed, and toothbrushes are often designed with this in mind. This is why some toothbrushes have ergonomic handles or specific bristle angles that favor right-handed use.
  • The Reinast Luxury Toothbrush is known as the world’s most expensive toothbrush, costing around $4,200. It features a titanium handle and replaceable bristles.
  • Astronauts use specially designed toothbrushes in space to maintain oral hygiene in a zero-gravity environment. These toothbrushes are part of a kit that includes no-rinse toothpaste.
  • Studies show that blue is the most popular toothbrush color, followed by red.
  • The average person will use about 300 toothbrushes during their lifetime, brushing their teeth approximately 57,000 times.
  • In the United States, National Toothbrush Day is celebrated on June 26th, promoting awareness about oral hygiene and the importance of regular brushing.

Recipe of the Month: Best Burgers Ever

Source:https://www.plainchicken.com/best-burgers-ever/

Best Burgers EVER! – these are hands down the best burgers we’ve ever eaten! SO good!!! Hamburger, onion, basil, teriyaki sauce, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese. We like to double the recipe and freeze uncooked hamburgers for a quick meal later. Great for tailgating!!

Ingredients

(The recipe originally allows 3 servings, but can be stretched to 4)

  • 1 lb ground beef (or vegan ground beef alternative)
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • 3 Tbsp teriyaki sauce (see notes)
  • 2 Tbsp Italian seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 Tbsp grated parmesan cheese
  • 3-4 slices of cheese
  • 3-4 hamburger buns

Directions:  

  1. Mix together beef, onion, salt, pepper, basil, teriyaki sauce, bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Divide into 3 (or 4) equal patties
  2. Grill to desired doneness. Top with cheese, cook for a minute, until the cheese is melted.
  3. Serve on hamburger buns.

Notes:

  • Change up the flavor by substituting the teriyaki sauce with any other favorite sauce such as BBQ, mustard, or marinara.
Scroll to Top