Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
November/December 2025
THE HEIGHTS SMILE Herald
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Through Scans, Treatments, and Life Changes
SHARED STORIES MAKE THE HARD TIMES LIGHTER
When I first started dentistry, I thought everything was supposed to stay the same. I decided my patients would never age, my mentors would always be there, nobody would ever get sick, and no one would ever move away. I’m now in my 25th year of practice, and I’ve learned that life doesn’t follow the script we expect. Patients grow up, families move, and life changes in ways you never imagined, even in my own family. One thing I’m grateful for in our office is that our patients share their stories with us through all those big life moments, good and bad, and we share ours with them. Loosen Up, Lighten Up Day is on Nov. 14, and when things get heavy, having a sympathetic and understanding ear can help you get through just about anything. I’ve come to appreciate it even more over the last year.
She started immunotherapy, and we were told there was a 50% chance of her having a bad reaction to the medication. Sure enough, that’s exactly what happened, and for the first time in my life, I thought I might be going home alone. During the next treatment, they said it wouldn’t happen a second time, and again, they had to stabilize her. She spent the next two days in the emergency room for even more delayed reactions, something her doctors said they had never seen before and didn’t know why it was happening. That was the last day I shaved my face. At 52, I’d never had a beard before, but I decided to set the razor down until they figured out what was happening with her. My beard has sparked many meaningful conversations with patients and coworkers, making the hard times easier. The number of people who have shared their stories of the ups and downs of treatment, whether it’s lymphoma or other types of health issues, has been incredible. It’s a bond no one really wants to share, but it’s very therapeutic. Thankfully, my wife’s cancer is a lower grade, but we’re not done yet. I’m thankful to those who have gone through these challenges before us and are giving us hope today. So many people have shared their stories and positive outlooks with me without hesitation. You see life through the filter of your age and era. Over the years, patients have shared everything from happy engagements, births, and graduations, all the way up to the difficulties in their lives, like surgeries and health issues. We’ve always wanted to be an office that leads with empathy, and I feel thankful we’ve built this practice on relationships. In this era of my life, as we go through the doctor appointments and all the motions, I’m most thankful for the caring people I get to see daily, and our shared stories of life that bond us. No matter what you are going through, whether it’s a happy update or a scary change, you’re not alone. We’re here to listen, share, and support you through the ups and downs we just might be going through, too. -Dr. Jason Schermer
A year ago, my wife was diagnosed with a B-cell lymphoma. As far as cancers go, it’s one of the less terrifying, lower-grade varieties, but as you can imagine, it’s been scary at times. Initially, the doctors decided to watch and wait before starting any treatment. Her symptoms got a little worse to the point where the lack of appetite and nausea were causing her to lose weight, and it was becoming an unhealthy situation.
1
exceptionalsmiles.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
GIVE HOPE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON No One Has to Struggle Alone
When my wife Michelle was diagnosed with lymphoma, a friend introduced us to Blood Cancer United (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society). This nonprofit has provided resource after resource on our journey, and a network of people who have ensured we’ve never gone through this alone. Organizations like BCU give people a lifeline during times of struggle, providing help and a sense of hope. This holiday season, there are countless ways to support organizations that help people regain a sense of normalcy during rough spots, with no judgment.
provide free information and support services for families, helping those with blood cancer live longer, happier lives. Every year, they host fundraising walks around the country where you can participate and contribute to their incredible work. If you are looking for other ways to give back, you have several options to donate to them online. They rely on volunteers and have a variety of ways you can get involved.
them on their mission, especially during holidays. Along with monetary or food donations, they can always use help from volunteers to prepare, distribute, and pack food.
SALVATION ARMY AND GOODWILL EasternUSA.SalvationArmy.org
The Salvation Army and Goodwill may be known for their thrift stores, but both organizations do much more to help people in need. From job placement services to providing gifts to families during the holidays, they work year- round to lift people and support those most vulnerable in the community. You can donate items to their stores, make monetary donations, or volunteer at one of their many locations in the Cleveland area. The holiday season is a busy time for them.
GREATER CLEVELAND FOOD BANK GreaterClevelandFoodbank.org
For many families, food is not a given. Oftentimes, people have to make the difficult choice of buying groceries or paying bills. The Greater Cleveland Food Bank helps families in the community put healthy meals on the table and provides additional resources for people to get back on their feet. Even a small food donation can help
BLOOD CANCER UNITED BloodCancerUnited.org
Blood Cancer United (BCU) has been a leader in research, support, and advocacy for people impacted by blood cancers since 1949. They
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “Best dentist in Cleveland! Staff is amazing, and they make sure you are comfortable the whole time. Highly recommend!” -David G. — “Super kind, professional, and accommodating dental practice on the east side. I’d highly recommend!” -Mike B. “When you look forward to going to the dentist, you know you’ve found the best of the best! Thank you for providing such great care!” -Amy I. — “Dr. Schermer and his team were excellent. They eased all of my fears. I would highly recommend them to my family and friends.” -Avis L.
2
(440) 483-1003
SWIPE LEFT ON TRENDING TEETH TRICKS WHY PROFESSIONALS DELIVER FASTER, LONGER-LASTING WHITENING
TikTok may be a great place to find handmade Thanksgiving decor ideas or trending dance moves, but viral hacks can do more harm than good when it comes to whitening your teeth. Everyone wants a bright Hollywood smile, but DIY remedies and at-home kits often come with potential enamel damage, uneven applications, and wasted dollars. From faster, more noticeable results to customized treatments that protect your smile, professional whitening can ensure your pearly whites shine in holiday photos and your teeth stay healthy. Get ready to give your smile a pro glow up as we explore why a dentist, not an influencer, is your best ally in long-lasting teeth transformations. VIRIAL VS. VERIFIED Scroll through social media, and you can find teeth whitening advice that includes using lemon juice, hydrogen peroxide, viral teeth whitening powder, or even applying your own veneers. Though these
may seem like inexpensive and easy solutions, they can lead to enamel erosion, damaged gums, and future decay. Your dentist has years of experience, access to safe, regulated products, and expert insight into underlying issues in your mouth that may need treatment. Not only do they know how to safely whiten your teeth, but they will also monitor your progress and ensure nothing is going on with your dental care that could lead to problems later on. FASTER, STRONGER SMILES While trendy tips and Amazon products promise ease, it doesn’t always mean long-lasting or quick results. Professional whitening often uses stronger and more effective products that break down stains, sometimes in as little as one visit. DIY options can take weeks or months to see a difference. Your dentist will also tailor your whitening to your needs, as opposed to one-size- fits-all options that can leave you with uneven
results or increased sensitivity. Your dentist will also provide aftercare instructions and tips on keeping your smile white and healthy. Your favorite social media accounts can bring fun and entertainment into your life, but your dentist is invested in you and your dental health. This season, let us help you achieve a safe, bright smile with $100 off your professional teeth whitening. We may not have viral dance moves, but we do have results you can smile about.
Use Them Now! A mug of cocoa, a warm blanket, and a good book; that’s the way to spend a chilly November evening. But before you settle in, it’s time to make sure your dental benefits aren’t slipping away! At midnight on Dec. 31, any unused coverage disappears. Booking now means that you’ll have your choice of appointment times before the holiday rush arrives, and you can enjoy the season knowing you’ve made the most of your benefits. Make your appointment today. Then, you can get back to your blanket, your cocoa, and your book. IT’S THE FOURTH QUARTER FOR YOUR 2025 DENTAL BENEFITS TAKE $100 OFF PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING! Don’t wait, this offer is only valid through December. Call today to schedule your appointment.
Apple-Cranberry Salad
This tangy and sweet apple-cranberry salad will steal the show at your Thanksgiving feast this year.
Ingredients • 6 slices of bacon • 1/3 cup balsamic vinaigrette • 1/3 cup olive oil • 2 tbsp raw honey • 8 oz fresh baby spinach, rinsed and dried
• 3/4 cup dried cranberries • 1 Honeycrisp apple, peeled and thinly sliced • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced • 1/2 cup feta cheese
Directions 1. In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove it from the pan and set on a paper towel-lined plate to cool. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinaigrette, olive oil, and honey. Set aside. 3. In a large bowl, add spinach, cranberries, apple slices, red onion, and feta. Crumble bacon pieces over the top. Use salad forks to toss ingredients thoroughly. 4. Add dressing to the salad and toss again until well-coated.
Inspired by WanderlustAndWellness.org
3
exceptionalsmiles.com
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
exceptionalsmiles.com
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121 Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
INSIDE 1 Listening Through Life’s Ups and Downs 2 Volunteer, Donate, Change Lives What People Are Saying About Us 3 Transform Your Smile Safely and Save $100 This Month Apple-Cranberry Salad 4 Why Becoming a Morning Person Isn’t Total Madness
HOW DITCHING THE MIDNIGHT OIL BOOSTS YOUR MOJO FROM NIGHT OWL TO EARLY BIRD
To the night owls, the world appears to be run by morning people. Schools start at the crack of dawn, coffee shops open and close early, and the world shuts down when the night owls are just getting started. Differing sleep patterns, or chronotypes, are hard- wired to an extent. And while no one chronotype is inherently better than another, night owls face certain disadvantages — including the fact that many important activities start early. The good news is that, with a little effort, night owls can feel at home in a morning-person world. Among helpful habits, night owls should avoid naps in the late afternoon or early evening and develop a routine of gradually cycling down their activities before bedtime. They should block out the stimulating glare of screens and adopt soothing pursuits such as a bath, meditation, soft music, or reading a print book. Night owls should also stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends. Once sleep routines are well-
established, they can begin setting their alarm 15 minutes earlier every few days and going to bed 15 minutes earlier each time. Try to make getting out of bed something to look forward to! One way to trick the brain into a more peaceful wake-up is to change the alarm tone to a pleasant, melodic chiming sound. Night owls can also use a light that simulates dawn, slowly making the room naturally brighter as they awaken. Sitting outdoors or near a window or light therapy lamp in the morning is also helpful for night owls who want to wake up more quickly. Finally, it’s not just about sleep: Night owls should try to eat like a morning person, too! Studies show that shifting meals earlier can help the body cycle down for bed sooner. Practicing small changes like these has enabled night owls to shift their sleep cycles as much as two hours earlier — changes that also led to their feeling less depressed and stressed!
4
(440) 483-1003
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator