Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
MAY 2024
*NEW ADDRESS! TYLER
LONGVIEW
3665 US Highway 259 N Longview, TX 75605
1520 Rice Road Suite 100 Tyler, TX 75703
903-758-5551
903-597-2201
www.texassedationdental.com
THE SCIENCE OF SMILES
Laughter Boosts Health and Well-being
You’ve heard it before: Laughter is the best medicine. Nothing feels better than having a solid belly laugh with friends and family. But why is it that laughter can lift our spirits, and what are some of its benefits? May 5 is World Laughter Day, so let’s dive in and celebrate incorporating more giggles into our lives all month! Laughter is a powerful way to combat stress, pain, and conflict. Nothing works faster to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. This simple act triggers a series of physiological processes that can drastically improve your well-being. First, laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can temporarily relieve pain. Laughing also decreases the levels of stress hormones in the body, which reduces stress and helps strengthen the immune system. On a physical level, laughter soothes tension and improves your heart rate and blood circulation. Studies have shown that laughing provides a mini-workout similar to aerobic exercise. A big belly laugh will boost your respiratory rate and your heart rate and increase your oxygen consumption. Cleveland Clinic researchers found that laughing will increase blood flow to your
powerful than laughing alone, for it creates a positive bond that promotes shared joy and an enhanced sense of community. The best part is that laughter is understood across different cultures and languages. There’s a bit of humor in us all! In our office, we recognize the importance of laughter not just for our team but also for our patients. We strive to create a warm, welcoming environment for our patients. We take dentistry seriously, and the comfort of our patients comes first, but we love to form bonds with our patients and embrace smiles and laughter. Outside of the office, we often gather to improve our bond with the team, and we always have a few great laughs — it’s hard not to with such a great group of people we are lucky enough to work with! We can all make a greater effort to take things a little less seriously and laugh more — be it through a funny movie, a stand-up comedy show, or simply spending time with friends and coworkers who bring a smile to your face. After all, laughter is contagious — the more you share it, the happier you and those around you will feel. Remember, it’s good for your body, soul, and spirit.
heart the same way that aerobic exercise does. If you want to boost your heart health, have a good laugh with some friends. Psychologically, laughing can increase personal satisfaction and help us cope with difficult situations. It shifts perspective, allowing us to see situations in a more realistic, less threatening light. This cognitive shift can help reduce feelings of anxiety and enhance our emotional resilience. Socially, laughter is contagious — it binds people together and increases happiness and intimacy. Laughing with others is more
-Dr. Travis Kendall
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PAW-SOME ADVENTURES Gear Up Your Pup for a Hiking Adventure
BOOTS While some dogs may resist wearing boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed. WASTE BAGS Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. EMERGENCY HARNESS Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must-have hiking gear for your canine companion. FOOD AND WATER One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks. FIRST-AID KIT Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse.
Brushing up on Genetics THE LINK BETWEEN DNA AND DENTAL HEALTH
Did you know that genetics can play a large role in oral health and can provide insight into how to better care for your teeth and gums? While daily habits like brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups are key to maintaining oral health, genetic factors can also significantly influence the condition of our mouths. Let’s take a look! GENETIC SUSCEPTIBILITY TO DENTAL DISEASES Certain genetic variations can make individuals more susceptible to common dental diseases such as tooth decay and periodontal (gum) disease. For example, the composition of saliva — affected by genes — can influence the likelihood of developing cavities. Saliva helps to neutralize acids produced by bacteria in the mouth and washes away food particles.
Those individuals with variations in genes that affect saliva production may find themselves more prone to cavities due to less natural protection. GUM DISEASE AND GENETICS Periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and can destroy the bone that supports your teeth, also has a genetic link. Studies suggest that up to 50% of the risk for gum disease is due to genetic factors.
issues can affect oral hygiene by making it more difficult to clean between teeth, thus increasing the risk of dental problems.
GENETIC DISORDERS AFFECTING ORAL HEALTH
Several genetic disorders, like ectodermal dysplasia, amelogenesis, or dentinogenesis imperfecta, affect the development of teeth and oral tissues. These conditions can lead to absent teeth, malformed teeth, or teeth that are prone to damage and decay. The more you understand about the role of genetics in oral health, the easier it will be to protect yourself and your teeth — and take proactive steps to maintain optimal oral hygiene, treatments, and preventive measures!
TOOTH MISALIGNMENT AND JAW STRUCTURE
Genetics also play a role in tooth alignment and jaw structure development. Underbites, overbites, and crowded teeth are often inherited traits that may require orthodontic interventions to correct. These structural
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SPRING HERB SOUP WITH ORZO AND PANCETTA
Grinding to a Halt
Inspired by FoodAndWine.com
• 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 4 oz pancetta, diced • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped • Salt and black pepper, to taste • 1/2 cup dry white wine • 1 cup uncooked orzo • 2 large garlic cloves, minced INGREDIENTS
• 8 cups chicken broth • 1 15-oz can cannellini beans, drained • 1/2 cup chopped fresh chives • 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon • 1 1/2 cups chopped parsley • Pecorino Romano cheese, grated (for garnish) • Lemon wedges
Stress isn’t just a mental or emotional hurdle — it can also manifest in physical areas of our lives. One common physical response to stress is teeth grinding, also known as bruxism. This involuntary clenching and grinding of the teeth can occur during the day and night, and while it seems harmless, it can lead to significant dental problems if left untreated. Bruxism usually occurs during sleep and is often directly linked to stress and anxiety. Here’s how it works: Stress triggers increased activity in the autonomic nervous system, which can lead to more muscle activity, including the muscles involved in chewing. This can happen without any conscious awareness from the person experiencing it. Prolonged teeth grinding shouldn’t be overlooked. It can lead to tooth wear and breakage, which may require costly dental repairs. Beyond the teeth themselves, bruxism can strain the jaw muscles and joints and potentially lead to temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJD), a painful condition that causes discomfort in the jaw, difficulty chewing, and even headaches and earaches. Pain triggered by bruxism can also lead to poor sleep quality, which in turn can increase stress, leading to more grinding. Thus, treating the symptoms and addressing the root causes of stress is crucial. To manage bruxism, we often recommend wearing a mouthguard at night to protect the teeth and reduce jaw strain. We also suggest stress- reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, regular physical exercise, and adequate sleep. Professional therapy or counseling can also be beneficial in managing chronic stress and anxiety. Additionally, lifestyle changes can make a significant difference. Limiting stimulants like caffeine, which can increase anxiety, and establishing a calming bedtime routine can improve sleep quality and reduce the likelihood of grinding. Recognizing the early signs of bruxism and taking steps to reduce stress can prevent the cycle of teeth grinding and protect both your dental health and overall well-being. If you suspect you’re grinding your teeth, especially if you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache, let us know! We will make an appointment to explore both preventive measures and stress reduction strategies. How Stress Leads to Bruxism and What You Can Do About It
• 1 tsp fennel seeds • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
DIRECTIONS 1. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium heat. Add pancetta and cook 4–6 minutes. Add onion, salt, and pepper; cook until softened, 8–12 minutes. 2. Add wine and cook 4–5 minutes. Add orzo, garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper; cook, stirring constantly, 2–4 minutes. 3. Add broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cook until orzo is al dente, 8–10 minutes. 4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cannellini beans; cook about 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in chives, tarragon, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Top with cheese and lemon.
TAKE A BREAK
BLOOM CINCO COMIC DERBY EMERALD GEMINI GRADUATION LILY MEMORIAL MOTHER
RENEWAL VETERANS
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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
LONGVIEW - 903-758-5551 TYLER - 903-597-2201 WWW.TEXASSEDATIONDENTAL.COM
3665 US HIGHWAY 259 N LONGVIEW, TX 75605
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Understanding The Benefits of a Good Laugh
2
Paws and Paths!
How Genetics Shape Our Oral Health
3
Measures Against Stress- Related Bruxism
Spring Herb Soup With Orzo and Pancetta
4
Australian Football: The World’s Most Underrated Sport KICKIN’ IT DOWN UNDER
The Excitement of Australian Football
While obscure beyond the country’s borders, Australian Rules Football is the most popular sport in its eponymous home country. Locally called “footy,” it’s a different beast than American football and rugby, sporting many unique rules while being an exhilarating spectacle. You’ll love the Australian Football League or AFL if you’re into sports. AFL looks more like rugby than American football. Players aren’t clad in padded uniforms and helmets like their peers across the pond; they wear the simple jersey and shorts combo standard among rugby and soccer players. The game is played with a ferocity not dissimilar to rugby, but several differences make it substantially distinct. When watching the AFL, you’ll notice the field is very different than other sports. The field is oval-shaped and much wider than American football fields. It’s also slightly
longer, measuring at least 130 yards. Why so big? It’s necessary to handle the 18 players on each team. That’s a swarm compared to 11-player American football teams. Unlike its counterparts, the AFL is all about punching and kicking. Players can’t throw the ball — they must kick or punch to pass it. Players can rarely hold on to the ball for long due to the large teams. As a result of these rules, matches are fast and fluid.
Consequently, stricter rules on tackling ensure players survive the game. Tackling is restricted to between the shoulders and knees, so it’s not as integral to the AFL as to rugby and American football. Lastly, players must kick the ball through goalposts to score; they can’t punch or carry it. Each side has four goalposts: two marking the outer goal and two marking the inner goal. The inner goalposts are relatively close together and taller, so kicking it through nets 6 points. The two other goalposts are outside the inner posts, and kicking it through those is worth one point. After four 20-minute quarters, the higher score wins. AFL will be thoroughly entertaining for football and rugby fans. It’s an underrated gem with some of the fiercest action in sports. So, grab a vegemite sandwich, slam a Tim Tam, and tune in!
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