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March/April 2024
THE HEIGHTS SMILE Herald
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Mark your calendars for April 8 because Cleveland is gearing up for a significant moment in history. We’re about to witness a solar eclipse, the first in over two centuries, the last was in 1806. At Exceptional Smiles, we’re recognizing its importance by declaring it a special paid holiday. After all, the next eclipse over Cleveland won’t be until 2444. We do have a solar eclipse coming a little sooner along Lake Erie shore in 2099, but the path is uncertain. In either case, unless I develop an extraordinary fondness for Greek yogurt and other healthy “superfoods,” I’m not betting on witnessing either one! Cleveland will be in the path of witnessing this total eclipse for almost four minutes. It may even trick some nocturnal animals into waking up and coming out. But don’t worry, you won’t need to put your sleep appliances on until your normal bedtime. While a few schools have confirmed their closure for the day, others are still in deliberation. In the event that our youngest daughter’s school remains open, we are prepared to withdraw her for the day. Interestingly, my wife, who happens to be a science teacher, is planning to turn this unique day into an impromptu science lesson if her school doesn’t close. It’s worth noting that the eclipse won’t commence until after regular school hours, leaving us with limited time for preparation and finding a suitable viewing location. This can be especially challenging for students who rely on bus transportation. THE SOLAR ECLIPSE ON APRIL 8 Day Turns to Dusk • Start of partial eclipse 1:59:23 p.m. EDT • Start of total eclipse 3:13:46 p.m. EDT • Maximum eclipse 3:15:41 p.m. EDT • End of total eclipse 3:17:35 p.m. EDT • End of partial eclipse 4:29:00 p.m. EDT ECLIPSE SCHEDULE
The first time I witnessed a solar eclipse was in college. I was at Northwestern in Chicago. My friends and I watched it from the McCormick Tech building. It was a sunny afternoon, around noon, and even though it was a partial eclipse, it left a lasting impression on me. A handful of years ago, there was another partial eclipse when the kids were out of school, and I was off work. We watched it through oatmeal and cereal containers in the backyard. In the 1980s, PBS had a show called “WonderWorks,” which adapted short stories into film. There was one by Ray Bradbury, “All Summer in a Day,” that my daughter read in high school a couple of years ago. It is about a colony that lived on Venus, where it rained every day. The sun only came out for one hour every seven years. Margot was the new kid at school, and a bully locked her in the closet while the rest of them ran outside to see the sun. I don’t want to be the bully making anyone miss this rare celestial event, which is why I’m giving my staff a paid day off. We shouldn’t dismiss the wonders of the world, especially when they only come around once every 75 years. I encourage you to do your research and enjoy the eclipse. Remember the importance of safety, such as proper glasses. Viewing the sun without solar protection can cause an eye injury. The Cleveland Natural History Museum is hosting events leading up to the eclipse, a great opportunity to learn more about it. The Cleveland Emergency Management System is preparing and assessing potential traffic issues to ensure a smooth and safe experience for us all. Let’s all take a moment — or four! — to step outside and enjoy the eclipse on April 8. Take the day, or the afternoon, or at least a few minutes off to be a part of it. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and I hope you enjoy it with your friends and family. We’ll be back at the office on the ninth, bright and early — but only if the sun is shining! -Dr. Jason Schermer
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Every Hour Counts in the Fight Against Oral Cancer
In an hour and every hour after that, someone will die from oral cancer. This year, 54,000 new cases of oropharyngeal (oral) cancer will be diagnosed. Of those, 43% will die within five years. Survivors often deal with long-term health issues that include facial disfigurement and problems with speaking and eating. But there is a solution. Early detection reduces the risk of death and minimizes health issues. EARLY DETECTION AND SELF-EXAMINATION Regular dental exams are your strongest weapon in the fight against cancer. In between dental exams, you can also do self-exams to look for warning signs. If you notice any of the early signs here, consult your doctor or dentist for an exam. Taking prompt action can make a life-saving difference.
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A persistent sore throat or hoarseness that doesn’t improve over a couple of weeks Swelling of one tonsil, typically painless A firm, fixed lump on the neck, unchanged for more than two weeks
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Raised tissue or growths in the mouth Persistent sores under dentures that don’t heal after adjustment Noticeable thickening or lumps developing in the mouth Painless, firm lumps on the neck that have been present for over two weeks
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A chronic cough that lingers
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Difficulty swallowing or a feeling that food is stuck in your throat
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Persistent earache on one side
If you have concerns, reach out to your doctor immediately. Staying alert and responsive is a proactive step toward safeguarding your health. Let’s do more than raise awareness during National Oral Cancer Awareness Month; let’s empower a proactive defense. We can save lives with heightened vigilance, regular checkups, and prompt response to symptoms.
These are all signs of cancer related to tobacco or heavy alcohol use:
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Sores or ulcers in the mouth that don’t heal within two weeks Unusual color changes in the mouth, particularly patches of red, white, or black Any area in the mouth that bleeds easily upon touch A firm lump or unusually hard area, often near the edge of the tongue
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-Dr. Jason Schermer
These are all signs of oral cancer caused by HPV (human papillomavirus):
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WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “My teeth used to be so crooked before and I was really ashamed to smile and show my teeth. But thanks to Exceptional Smiles, my teeth are straight. I feel so much better thanks to all the amazing dentists at Exceptional Smiles!” -Sora — “The best. From the moment you arrive through leaving the office, everyone there is very professional. I have complete faith in the team at Exceptional Smiles that my dental needs are being met.” -Thomas — “Comfortable, friendly, professional. You always leave feeling you got the best advice and treatment from caring professionals. A great place to be for dental care.” -Robert
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SLEEP TIGHT, SMILE RIGHT HOW REST AFFECTS ORAL HEALTH
THE MOUTH AND POOR SLEEP We all know how important it is to brush our teeth before bed. It’s the best protection against harmful bacteria multiplying in our mouths while we sleep. However, when our quality of sleep declines, for whatever reason, our bodies respond by a decrease in saliva flow, resulting in a dry mouth. This saliva reduction increases bacterial growth and the formation of bacterial films, leading to tooth decay and bad breath. Inflammation can also increase, which can accelerate the progression of gum disease, potentially leading to tooth loss. Other conditions can also affect sleep quality and oral health. SLEEP APNEA Does your bed partner snore and keep you awake? If so, they may have sleep apnea, characterized by an obstructed airway. Individuals with this condition wake up multiple times throughout the night, preventing them from achieving deep sleep. Besides keeping you awake, it may be a sign of a more serious condition for them. If you suspect you or your partner may be suffering from sleep apnea, we can screen you for the condition and refer you to a sleep physician, if needed. After a
diagnosis, we’ll work with your sleep physician to make and monitor oral sleep appliances to alleviate the condition so you both can get better sleep. I’ve taken over 150 hours of dental sleep medicine training and am a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. BRUXISM Even if you do sleep through the night, do you frequently wake up with a sore jaw? If so, you may be unconsciously clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth during sleep. While it may not present a bacterial problem, it wears down teeth and can lead to cracked or broken teeth — which can destroy a smile. So, if you frequently wake up with soreness in the jaw area, give us a call. We can provide you with custom-fit night guards to protect your teeth and relax your jaw. At Exceptional Smiles, we are committed to guiding you toward a future where your sleep is sound so your smiles can be healthy. We want your mornings to be met with renewed vigor and a bright, pain-free smile. After all, a great day and a beautiful smile start with a good night’s sleep and a healthy dental routine!
It’s well known that a good night’s sleep impacts our overall mood and energy levels, but did you know it also influences our oral health? In the spirit of National Sleep Awareness Week, March 10–16, we would like to identify a few conditions that interfere with a good night’s rest, and what you can do to ensure better sleep and a healthier smile.
LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH
Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
This chicken tikka masala recipe is a tantalizing journey for your taste buds.
Q: What falls during March but never gets hurt? A: The rain.
Ingredients •
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
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1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp paprika
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1 onion, diced
1 14-oz can diced tomatoes 1 14-oz can tomato sauce 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp minced ginger 1 tsp ground cumin 2 tsp garam masala
Q: How can you tell the weather’s getting warmer? A: There’s a spring in people’s step.
Directions 1. Place the chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin, garam masala, coriander, and paprika in the slow cooker. 2. Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. 3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours. 4. When the chicken is done cooking, stir in the Greek yogurt. 5. Serve over rice or with naan and enjoy!
Q: What type of bow can’t be tied? A: A rainbow.
If you would like your favorite joke featured, email Office@exceptionalsmiles.com . You may see it in our next issue!
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exceptionalsmiles.com
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121 Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
INSIDE
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A Once-in-75-Years Eclipse in Cleveland
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Preventing Oral Cancer and Saving Lives
What People Are Saying About Us
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The Nighttime Secrets to a Brighter Smile
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Slow Cooker Chicken Tikka Masala
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3 Reasons to Take a Cat Nap
A 15-MINUTE NAP CAN BOOST YOUR MOOD, HAPPINESS, AND HEALTH THE POWER OF POWER NAPPING
To some, a nap is a vital part of a daily routine. To others, naps are accidents and should be avoided. Power naps — also known as “cat naps” — are short, usually around 15–20 minutes, and many believe such a tiny amount of sleep can’t be helpful. You can’t even get to the REM
sleep stage. However, peer-reviewed studies show power naps can have many benefits for their minimal time investment. Here are three ways you benefit from adding a 15-minute sleep session to your daily routine.
they can be a lifesaver in high-stress situations. Consider taking a cat nap if you’re under a tight deadline. Doing so can boost productivity and lower stress levels. LIVE LONGER Power naps help more than just the brain. They also benefit the cardiovascular system, as regular naps can lower blood pressure, which means you’re at a lower risk of a stroke or heart attack. People who don’t get enough sleep have more frequent headaches, immunological issues, and an increased appetite. Gaining weight then leads to many other health problems, so those who want to lose weight should also watch their sleep schedule. In short, fit a power nap into your schedule regularly. Cultures around the world take midday naps for a reason. If power naps don’t help you feel better, consider visiting a doctor. Constant exhaustion — especially insomnia — can indicate other health problems lurking.
THINK CLEARER Napping is excellent for sharpening your
cognitive powers. High sleep quality leads to better memory, fast response times, and mental clarity, so a power nap is perfect for fitting a little more into your schedule. But while a cat nap can sharpen your focus, a longer nap might hinder you. Long naps go through the entire sleep cycle and result in grogginess, impairing brain function for a short time. LOWER STRESS People get cranky when they’re tired. Less sleep causes aggression, emotional outbursts, and mood changes. Adequate sleep makes you feel a lot better — emotionally and physically. While power naps aren’t the solution to every problem,
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