Exceptional Smiles - September/October 2022

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September/October 2022

THE HEIGHTS SMILE Herald

(440) 483-1003

5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

OVERCOMING MY FEAR FOR AN INCREDIBLE REWARD Living the High Life

I’ve previously shared my love of hiking, so it might come as a surprise to learn that I’m horribly afraid of heights. I usually manage by choosing my hikes carefully and selecting wooded areas and wide paths. But during our family’s vacation to the Smoky Mountains this summer, I encountered a choice about whether or not to embrace the thing that scares me. My oldest daughter and I set off one morning for a hike along the Appalachian Trail. It wasn’t particularly grueling for an experienced hiker, only about 4 miles each way. The scenery was beautiful and peaceful. We were still below the tree line, so we mostly couldn’t tell just how high up we were. Or, at least we couldn’t until we had almost reached our destination: Charlies Bunion. Charlies Bunion is a solo outcropping — basically, an enormous boulder. You can climb on top and look down over the mountains and valleys. But the path to get there seemed treacherous. The trail broke off into a narrow path with some trees and shrubs on the exposed side and then a steep drop-off. I immediately began having vertigo and visions of falling off the trail and tumbling down the mountain. I wasn’t sure I could bring myself to go down there. Some of my patients react similarly in my office. It’s no secret many people fear the dentist or any dental surgery. The thought of having one’s wisdom teeth removed or undergoing a root canal is enough to give most people the willies. Like me on the mountain, they immediately start imagining the worst-case scenario. So much of what most people know about dental procedures, they didn’t learn from experts. They saw it on YouTube, heard an anecdote from a friend, or overheard a guy in the grocery store. And they often don’t understand these stories are not necessarily a realistic description of the process. I try to help patients overcome these fears every day by building trust. I remind them of how many times I’ve done a procedure and how much better my patients feel afterward. Knowledge is power, and people feel more comfortable when they have expert guidance. Realizing how many

people have ventured down the same path and come out the other end safely gives them the courage to move forward and protect their oral health. That’s what ultimately propelled me down that frightening trail to Charlies Bunion. It would have been easy to give in to my fear, but I would have missed out on something incredible. As I watched

other hikers venture up and down the path

successfully, I realized that if I proceeded cautiously, I would be safe.

When we reached Charlies Bunion, the view was spectacular, and I couldn’t believe I’d almost missed it. I didn’t ultimately climb up on top of the rock — I’d had enough adventure for one day — but I still had an experience I’ll remember forever. On the way back, I felt more confident, and my daughter and I posed for a picture of us above the drop that had terrified me. We all sometimes fear the unknown. It’s frightening to not know what’s around the corner of that path, waiting for us in the dentist’s chair, or lurking behind the door of that haunted house this Halloween. But remember that in all of these cases, others have gone before you, emerging intact and often stronger. Fears lose their power when you face them — and while the journey may not always be fun, the reward is well worth it. -Dr. Jason Schermer

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Invisalign Improves Your Smile and Health

TRY IT NOW WITH OUR BEST DEAL EVER

October is National Orthodontic Health Month, and there’s nothing we’d love to celebrate more than a beautiful, functional set of teeth. Many people think of orthodontics as purely cosmetic. But while we all want your smiles to look their best, there are also health reasons to rid your mouth of gaps and unnecessary crowding. Uneven teeth are harder to clean due to overlaps and irregular spacing. Patients may have trouble brushing the entire surface of their teeth well or fitting floss between teeth. The result is often gum disease and tooth decay. With fewer nooks and crannies for bacteria to hide, orthodontics can help prevent extensive and expensive dental work — not to mention the host of other health problems resulting from poor oral health. A bad bite from crooked teeth can also cause excessive wear on your teeth’s enamel, increasing your risk of dental disease. Additionally, uneven teeth can cause problems with chewing and speaking. Once you add in the boost of confidence that a straight smile provides, there’s little reason not to consider orthodontics.

Exceptional Smiles is offering our best deal ever on Invisalign, an alternative to traditional braces. Invisalign uses a system of trays that are specially molded to each individual, so they can change the positioning of your teeth slowly over time. While the national average length of Invisalign is 11 months, Dr. Schermer’s expertise reduces that time to an average of six months. Our best deal lets you straighten your smile for the low price of $3,759 or $81 per month. This deal is usually only open to new patients, but we’re offering to EVERYONE through the end of 2022. Further, the package is all- inclusive, unlike many offers from other providers. The best deal ever fee covers the entire process, including consultations, X-rays, scans, impressions, trays, and retainers. We also share a digital simulation demonstrating how you can expect your teeth to change over time with treatment. With the end of the year approaching, our team can also help you use any remaining dental benefits toward your Invisalign treatment. Don’t let your insurance roll over without getting the most out of your premium. Call our office today at (440) 335-5907 to schedule your consultation and enjoy the increased confidence and health benefits that a straight set of teeth can provide.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “Dr. Schermer and his staff are exceptional in their knowledge, compassion, and service. Five-star recommendation all around!” — “The atmosphere is very friendly and makes your dental experience more comfortable. I can say now I feel more comfortable receiving my information regarding my teeth.” — “If you don”t like going to the dentist, this is the one to go to. The staff is friendly and makes sure you’re comfortable throughout any procedure. I have sensitive gums and never feel any pain.

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(440) 483-1003

PROTECT YOUR SMILE AT ANY AGE 3 TIPS FOR MATURE ADULTS

PROTECTING GUMS Brushing too hard can damage enamel and gums, so use a soft- bristled toothbrush and gentle pressure. Note that brushing more gently is not the same as brushing less thoroughly! Continue to brush for two minutes twice a day and clean the entire tooth surface. Otherwise, you risk different gum problems in the form of periodontal disease.

symptoms. Gum and candies can as well, but they must be the sugarless varieties. Otherwise, you’re likely doing your mouth more harm than good! PRESERVING YOUR SMILE Fewer mature adults are using dentures than ever before, but tooth loss remains a reality for many. If you need teeth removed, we can install implants and crowns to restore your smile and help you regain confidence. Meanwhile, the longer you stain your teeth with coffee, red wine, tomato sauce, and other everyday products, the less white your teeth will become. You can give your smile some extra sparkle with veneers or a professional teeth- whitening service. Finally, there is no wrong age to look your best. In your 20s, 90s, and anywhere in between, Invisalign treatment can straighten crooked teeth and give you a picture-perfect smile. We’re still offering our best deal ever for $3,759 or only $81 per month through the end of 2022. That’s down from our regular price of $4,359! Schedule your free cosmetic consultation with Exceptional Smiles by calling (440) 335-5907 today!

PREVENTING DRY MOUTH Age doesn’t inhibit our saliva

Unfortunately, there is no fountain of youth. But Healthy Aging Month in September reminds us that we can keep looking after ourselves no matter how many birthdays we celebrate. Though people 65 and older have high rates of dental disease, there are many things you can do at any age to reduce your risk and have a healthier mouth.

production, but medication can, and mature adults generally take more prescriptions. You need your medicine, so how do you fight back against the discomfort, tooth decay, and bad breath caused by dry mouth? Stay hydrated and avoid drying agents like caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco. Specially formulated mouthwashes can also help reduce

No-Fuss Chicken and Rice Soup

LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH

Inspired by RecipeTinEats.com Fall is almost here, so it’s time to break out the soup! Your family is sure to love this recipe — it’s a classic.

Ingredients •

2 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, chopped

• • • •

1/4 tsp pepper

Q: How does a scientist freshen her breath? A: With experi-mints!

• • • • • •

4 cups chicken broth

2 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups water

3 carrots, sliced 3 celery ribs, sliced

1 1/4 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs 1 cup uncooked white rice

2 chicken bouillon cubes

• •

1/2 tsp dried parsley

Salt, to taste

Directions 1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes. Add the carrots and celery, then sauté for 1 more minute. 2. Add the bouillon, parsley, pepper, chicken broth, and water. Stir, then add the chicken thighs. 3. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 30 minutes, then add the rice. Stir, cover, and simmer for 15 more minutes. 4. Remove the pot from the heat and transfer the chicken to a large bowl. Shred the meat and add it back to the soup. Discard the bones. 5. Stir, salt, and serve!

Q: Why can’t pirates learn the alphabet? A: Because they keep getting lost at C.

If you would like your favorite joke featured, email Office@exceptionalsmiles.com . You may see it in our next issue!

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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

(440) 483-1003

INSIDE 5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121 Mayfield Heights, OH 44124

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Dr. Schermer’s Lesson in Facing Your Fears

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Invisalign Can Make You Look and Feel Better

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What People Are Saying About Us

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How Dental Care Changes With Age

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No-Fuss Chicken and Rice Soup

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Places to Visit Similar to Montana

3 VACATION DESTINATIONS SIMILAR TO MONTANA GET OUT AND EXPLORE

Because of the popularity of the Kevin Costner miniseries “Yellowstone,” the state of Montana is seeing an economic boom, both in tourism and real estate, as people flock to explore the natural beauty of the state. But with Montana’s increasing popularity, traveling there may not be ideal, especially if you want to avoid crowds. Here are some other destinations that offer similar sights and activities! STANLEY, IDAHO If the mountains are calling your name, then Stanley, Idaho, is the place to go! About three hours northeast of Boise, this gem has three different mountain ranges: the Sawtooth, Lost River, and White Cloud. This trifecta is home to whitewater rafting, hiking, sightseeing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and exploring. While there’s tons to see and experience during the day, the beauty doesn’t stop at night. As Stanley is situated in the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, you’re able to see so much more in the night sky, such as the Milky Way, meteors, and even planets! GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK, WYOMING In Grand Teton National Park, you’ll find many sights and wildlife similar to those seen on screen in “Yellowstone.” The towering craggy peaks and luscious landscape do not disappoint, and sometimes there is no sign of human development for miles. It’s a truly remote and beautiful place to visit and explore.

You are sure to encounter some amazing wildlife while hiking or camping — the park is home to more than 60 species of mammals and 300 species of birds.

BIGHORN NATIONAL FOREST, WYOMING Specifically known for being remote, Bighorn National Forest is located in north-central Wyoming and offers over 192,000 acres of open wilderness and 1,200 miles of hiking trails to venture out on. The forest contains many meadows and grasslands surrounded by large, dancing mountains and rolling hills. The best part is that there are many different ways to explore Bighorn National Forest. Fishing, camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, camping, hunting, and horseback riding are just a few of the many ways to experience Wyoming’s beauty.

Are you ready to get out and explore these different areas of our nation’s beauty? Check some of these great destinations off your bucket list!

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