June 9th, 2010
Summer is here and with it comes an array of fun outdoor activities-cookouts, swimming, beach vacations, and outdoor sporting events. With the increase of sun exposure, it is important to take measures to protect your skin from its potentially harmful effects. Too much sun can cause heat exhaustion, wrinkles, or most importantly–skin cancer. The average person only needs 10-15 minutes of sun 2-3 times a week in order to get their vitamin D, so the rest of the time, they should be covering up! Here are a few tips for saving your skin this summer:
1. Wear sunglasses, a hat, and light-weight clothing t0 cover up. Some clothing offers UV protection.
2. Apply sunscreen 10-15 minutes before going outside. Use at least SPF 15 and reapply every 2 hours. Be sure to use waterproof sunscreen if you plan on swimming. Check the expiration date on your sunscreen, as it loses its potency over time.
3. Check your medication labels to be sure your meds do not increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun.
4. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. are the peak hours for sun exposure. Avoid those times if you are extra sensitive to the sun or heat.
Tags: health and wellness, seasonal
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June 2nd, 2010
Diabetes can increase your risk of cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis. The higher your sugar level, the higher the bacteria in your mouth, which causes these diseases. In turn, advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can elevate your blood sugar, which makes your diabetes more difficult to regulate.
With the dangerous cycle that can occur between poor dental hygiene and diabetes, here are some ways to prevent the harmful effects diabetes can have on your mouth:
1. Regulate your blood sugar: This will help prevent gum disease, so make a commitment to following your doctor’s orders for a healthy diet and lifestyle.
2. Follow the general guidelines for dental hygiene: You’ve heard it before, but brush at least twice a day and floss at least once. Check out some flossing suggestions here.
3. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and checkups–and be sure you remind your dentist of your diabetes. If you are having dental surgery, be sure to discuss proper ways to prevent infections with your doctor and dentist.
4. Consistently monitor for gum disease: Talk to your dentist about the signs and symptoms, and check frequently.
5. Quit smoking: If you smoke, your risks of diabetes-related issues increase exponentially. Ask your doctor for some ways to assist you in quitting smoking.
Don’t let your diabetes rob you of a healthy and attractive smile. Team up with your doctor and dentist in order to maintain positive dental health care. 
Tags: dental, diabetes, health and wellness
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May 26th, 2010
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared May 31st World No Tobacco Day as an opportunity to educate the public on the far reaching damage tobacco can cause. Most people are well aware of the heart and lung problems that can be caused by tobacco, but are often misinformed about its effects on their oral health. Tobacco can lead to yellow teeth and bad breath, as well as more serious issues such as gum disease and mouth and throat cancer. Smokeless tobacco usage is equally as dangerous. The use of tobacco products contributes to bone and tissue loss in the mouth, as well as an increase in plaque.
Take your health into consideration before lighting up or using other tobacco products. Contact us at All Smiles if you are concerned about tobacco damage in your mouth. 
Tags: health and wellness, oral health
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May 19th, 2010
This is a break from our usual health topics, but we are committed to providing information that improves the quality of life of all of our readers. Due to the recession, we realize that finances are a hot topic, and many Americans are finding ways to cut spending and stretch their dollars. A simple way to do this is to avoid consumer debt. This is not an easy task, but it can save you hundreds to thousands of dollars in the long run.
In our consumer economy, most people live by the principle of spend, spend, spend—and if you don’t have the money in the bank, charge it! Commercials, ads, and all types of media advocate the use of a credit card to buy what you want, when you want it, without waiting. The problem with this is that the credit industry has actually become a marketed product. The industry is not a free service or a convenience.
Dave Ramsey, a personal financial author and speaker, advocates a simple rule when deciding whether to use credit to purchase an item: “When the utility of what you want is less than the cost of the debt, don’t buy it.” When referring to utility, he means if the item will increase your productivity and make you more money. Resist the urge to purchase items on credit that will cost you for a lifetime, unless this item is actually going to make you more money over time.
For more information on the views of Dave Ramsey, visit www.daveramsey.com
Tags: current events, economy
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May 12th, 2010
our amazing team
One of the greatest aspects of All Smiles Dental Care is our focus on teamwork and the close-knit group of staff that we have. An article by Jackie L. Sanders really summed up many of the ways that we foster an environment of teamwork and shared vision. Below are some of the ways Dr. Imm focuses on teamwork throughout the day at ASDC.
- Morning huddle: Specialized care of our guests is planned at the morning meeting, and gets staff on the same page.
- Shared vision: Dr. Imm establishes a common purpose, which all the team members share. This is simply to “wow” each guest that walks in the door with a positive experience and successful , top-of-the-line treatment.
- Patients come first: The focus of the practice is not on production, but on patient care—however long that takes! All members of the team are united in ensuring thorough patient care.
- Good communication: The team members actively participate in decision making and communicate with each other to care for each and every guest.
- Focus on strengths: While the team acts as a cohesive whole, each member has individual strengths that are utilized within the practice.
- Guest satisfaction: This is the ultimate goal, which is taken into consideration in everything the team does. We begin everything with this end in mind.
- Together when apart: The team works together even when they are separate, and maintains positive energy through writing each other notes of encouragement and keeping things lively and fun. The team also practices ESP—only discussing topics that are encouraging, supportive, and positive. The guest of the day program and special celebrations keep the atmosphere of All Smiles upbeat.
Credits: “A Successful Team Has One Heartbeat”, by Jackie L. Sanders, Sunstar Newsletter
Tags: All Smiles, teamwork
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May 5th, 2010
Here at All Smiles, we are loving the beautiful spring weather and warm temperatures, but we recognize that many of our guests may suffer from seasonal allergies that prevent them from fully enjoying the coming of the new season. Recent news has focused on the effects of “mouth breathing” (breathing through your mouth rather than your nose due to stuffy nose and allergy symptoms) on your oral and overall health. This is especially evident in children. Those who breathe through their mouth throughout allergy season can end up with abnormal facial and dental development, as well as poor sleeping habits. As discussed in previous blog posts, poor sleep can contribute to numerous other health issues, including poor academic and social performance.
If you are concerned that your allergies may be causing this issue, talk with your dentist or local health professional about treatments that can help prevent this habit.
For more information regarding recent findings on “mouth breathing”, visit this article posted by the Academy of General Dentistry. 
Tags: health and wellness, oral health
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April 28th, 2010
As a follow-up to our sleep article, we thought we would delve a little deeper into the growing problem of sleep apnea. Some of you may be asking: what does sleep apnea have to do with dentistry?
The American Academy of Sleep Medicine now recommends that a dental device be used for those with mild-moderate sleep apnea who have not been helped by a CPAP or are not candidates for one. Severe sleep apnea should still be treated with a CPAP in most cases. Please note that dentists cannot diagnose sleep apnea, but they can become part of the treatment process.
There are two types of oral devices available for use with patients with sleep apnea:
Mandibular advancement device—This looks like a sports mouth guard and assists in keeping the airway open through jaw placement.
Tongue retraining device—This device holds the tongue in place so it does not obstruct the airway.
Dental devices have shown to be very beneficial in control of sleep apnea. They significantly reduce mild to moderate apnea, especially for those patients who sleep on their backs or stomachs. They improve sleep in many patients, as well as improve snoring issues. Patients also tend to comply with the dental devices more often than with the CPAP. As with any treatment, the use of dental devices is not beneficial in every case of sleep apnea. A dental professional should always closely monitor the treatment.
All Smiles Dental Care and Dr. Imm are committed to assisting those guests who are experiencing sleep apnea. Dr. Imm recently completed continuing education on the treatment of sleep apnea. Stay tuned for a sleep apnea pre-screening clinic at All Smiles Dental Care in the coming months and call our office with any related questions on this article or the treatment of sleep apnea through dental devices.
Information on sleep apnea and dental devices from the University of Maryland Medical Center article: “Obstructive Sleep Apnea”
Tags: oral health, sleep
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April 14th, 2010
Bad breath is one of those problems that is downright embarrassing. We try to mask it with mint, gum, or social distancing–but with raised awareness of the causes and a few simple remedies, you can banish bad breath from your mouth.
Causes
There are a number of possible causes for bad breath. Possibilities include:
- Stress
- Alcohol consumption
- Dieting
- Dehydration
- A serious medical condition (diabetes, reflux, ulcers, respiratory disorder, kidney or liver malfunction)
- Certain foods (garlic, onions, strong spices, etc.)
- Imbalance of good and bad bacteria
- Intestinal parasites
- Dental problems (especially periodontal problems and tooth abscesses)
Remedies
The first step in getting rid of bad breath is identifying the culprit. Visit your dentist and get a thorough check-up to see if there are any periodontal issues causing the foul odor. Get your teeth cleaned to remove plaque that can attract foul-smelling bacteria in your mouth. Get any cavities filled, as these can also breed “stinky” bacteria.
In addition to seeing your dental health professional, some at-home fixes include:
- Swishing with water after eating
- Frequent brushing and flossing–and don’t forget to brush your tongue!
- Eliminate certain foods, such as foods with high acidity, fish, garlic, onions, coffee, or tea
- Eat more fruits and veggies containing digestive enzymes
- Increase your vitamin C, B, and zinc intake through diet or supplements
Email as at info@allsmilescare.com or comment with any questions on this common problem.
Tags: hygiene, oral health, prevention
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April 7th, 2010
As discussed in Flossing 101 (March 2010), your dental health can have serious impact on your general health. This is especially important to understand in an era where older adults are keeping their teeth much longer. Tooth and gum disease increase your risk for heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. Early prevention is key, but the risk of periodontal disease definitely increases as we age. Many recent studies are linking dental health with overall health, especially as we age. It is so important to maintain your healthy smile and screen for serious periodontal disease regularly.
Poor dental health also impacts the good things in life–eating, talking, and socializing. Being proud of your smile will cause you to use it more often! Keep in mind the importance of your smile and make it a priority through regular dental visits, daily flossing, and frequent brushing. Consider these actions an investment in your overall well-being. Prevent disease early on–don’t wait until there is a problem! Your smile is worth it. 
Tags: health and wellness, oral health
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March 24th, 2010
A recent study done in Japan determined that consuming dairy products containing lactic acid (milk, yogurt, cheese, etc.) can lower your risk for gum disease. The participants who consumed 55 grams or more of yogurt or lactic acid drinks a day had lower incidence of periodontal disease. The study found that eating milk and cheese did not have as much positive results. The researchers hypothesized that the acid has probiotic effects that could link to healthier gums.
The study also found several other food and drink items that can contribute to positive dental health: black tea (minus sugar, lemon, or milk), and foods high in vitamin C (citrus fruits, tomatoes, broccoli) .
Making healthy food choices can affect more than just your waist line, endurance, and energy level. Your teeth can benefit as well. Ask your hygienist at All Smiles about other lifestyle choices that can improve your smile.
Tags: diet, health and wellness, oral health
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