Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
APRIL 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
FACING ORAL CANCER Make Early Detection and Regular Checks a Priority
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Monitor for Pain or Discomfort: Be aware of any persistent pain, tenderness, or numbness anywhere in your mouth or lips.
Did you know that according to the American Cancer Society, men have a 1 in 59 chance, and women have a 1 in 139 chance of developing oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer? The Oral Cancer Foundation also reports that over 58,500 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer this year! April is National Oral Cancer Awareness Month, making awareness and early detection of this devastating disease crucial! In our offices, we are committed to not only treating dental issues but also playing a key role in the early detection of oral cancer in all of our patients. During routine dental check- ups, we conduct a comprehensive oral
cancer screening as a part of our standard protocol. This includes:
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Visual Examination: Our dental team inspects all areas of the mouth for any signs of cancer or precancerous conditions, such as sores, irregular tissue changes, or ulcers. Physical Examination: We feel the tissues in your mouth to detect any lumps or abnormalities. Utilization of Special Tools: In some cases, additional tools or dyes might be used to help identify abnormal cells or tissues in the mouth.
WHEN TO CALL OUR OFFICE If you spot any concerning signs during your at-home oral health checks, we urge you to contact our office immediately. Symptoms that warrant a prompt dental visit include:
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Sores, ulcers, or tender areas in the mouth that do not heal within two weeks. Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
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Persistent pain or discomfort.
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, or moving the jaw or tongue. A feeling of something being caught in the throat.
MONITORING ORAL HEALTH AT HOME While regular visits to the dentist are vital for oral health maintenance and cancer screening, being proactive about your oral health at home is equally important. Here’s how you can perform self-checks for signs of oral cancer:
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Dramatic weight loss.
Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Our team is equipped with the knowledge, tools, and compassion to conduct thorough screenings and follow up on any signs of concern. Remember, your oral health is a window into your overall well- being, and taking proactive steps today can lead to a healthier tomorrow!
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Look for Sores or Ulcers: Pay attention to any sores or ulcers that don’t heal within two weeks. Check for White or Red Patches: Take note of any unusual white or red patches inside your mouth, on your gums, tonsils, or lining of your cheeks. Feel for Lumps: Gently probe your cheeks, the roof of your mouth, and under your tongue for any lumps or thickening tissues.
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-Dr. Travis Kendall
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LONGVIEW - 903-758-5551 | TYLER - 903-597-2201
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MASTERING THE MARATHON
3 Ways to Build Healthy Habits
NO. 3 — STAY CONSISTENT Consistency is at the core of building a habit — establishing a routine that aligns with your health goals. A structured routine supports habit formation, and consistency reinforces it. If you miss a day of your new habit, a routine helps you bounce back into the structure without being hard on yourself. As you continue building healthy habits, consistency will help ingrain them into your lifestyle. You can lay the groundwork for lasting, healthy habits by embracing these three tips. Small, gradual changes become the foundation for continued success, while clear objectives serve as milestones to celebrate success along the way. So, take joy in the process, celebrate the victories, and know that building these healthy habits is a marathon worth running.
overwhelming. You should first focus on incremental adjustments to your routine. If your goal is to exercise more, start with short walks in the evenings after dinner or take the stairs in the office instead of elevators. These changes lay the foundation for long-term success. Starting small will make it easier to transition to larger changes, like adding a morning workout or speeding up your evening walk into a jog. NO. 2 — SET SPECIFIC GOALS Setting clear, attainable goals can easily motivate you. Rather than vague aspirations, like “exercise more” or “eat healthy,” define your goals into objectives like “walk 20 minutes every day” or “eat vegetables with every meal.” These goals can be a road map for your journey as you can track your progress as time goes on. Consistently achieving these milestones will solidify your commitment to your new healthy habits.
The journey to healthier habits is a marathon, not a sprint, and as such, it is a daunting task. Here are three tips to help you begin your journey, whether your goal is to lose weight, improve your diet, work out regularly, or just establish a more balanced lifestyle. NO. 1 — START SMALL Start your journey to better health in small ways, as attempting drastic change can be
Brushing up on History HOW TOOTHPASTE REVOLUTIONIZED ORAL HEALTH
Toothpaste — we use it multiple times daily without giving it much thought. However, beyond the benefits it has for our smile and oral health, how much do you know about its history? From the ancient Egyptians to modern-day advancements, toothpaste has evolved significantly, reflecting changes in materials, understanding of dental science, and consumer preferences. The earliest recorded toothpaste formula dates to around 5000 BC in Egypt. This concoction was a powder comprising ingredients like water, pumice, eggshells, ashes, and ox hooves. The Greeks and Romans later adopted and refined the practice, adding abrasives like crushed bones and oyster shells to clean teeth more effectively. The Chinese then introduced flavoring agents to improve breath, a concern that aligns closely with today’s toothpaste attributes. In the 9th century, the Persian musician and fashion designer Ziryab, living in Spain, is credited with inventing a type of toothpaste that was more palatable and likely more effective than its predecessors. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that toothpaste began to resemble the product we are familiar with today. A dentist named Peabody was the first to add soap to toothpaste in 1824, improving its cleaning properties.
The real breakthrough came in 1873 when Colgate released the first mass-produced, nice-smelling toothpaste in a jar. By 1892, Dr. Washington Sheffield of Connecticut introduced toothpaste in a collapsible tube, similar to the packaging we see today. This innovation made toothpaste more accessible and hygienic, significantly impacting its usage and popularity. The 20th century witnessed significant advancements in dental science, influencing toothpaste development. The addition of fluoride in 1914 was a landmark moment, drastically improving toothpaste’s ability to prevent tooth decay. Since then, toothpaste has become not just a cleaning agent but a crucial tool in promoting dental health. Today, toothpaste varieties cater to a wide variety of oral health needs and preferences, including whitening, sensitivity prevention, and gum care. Natural and organic formulations have also gained popularity, reflecting a growing consumer interest in sustainable and chemical- free products. As research continues and technology advances, toothpaste will undoubtedly continue to evolve and offer more effective solutions for dental care!
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Tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of our teeth, is our very first line of defense against cavities and tooth decay. However, this protective coating is vulnerable to erosion from the acidic foods we consume, potentially leading to dental health issues down the road. WHAT CAUSES ACID EROSION? Tooth erosion occurs when acidic substances come into contact with enamel, leading to its gradual dissolution. This process can significantly weaken teeth, making them more susceptible to decay, sensitivity, and discoloration. The primary culprits in acid erosion are often everyday foods and beverages that form a regular part of our diets. Common acidic foods and drinks include citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as other fruits such as apples and berries. Beverages such as soft drinks, fruit juices, sports drinks, and wine also have high acidic content. Even some healthy foods, like yogurt and honey, can contribute to acid erosion due to their acidity levels. The frequency and manner in which acidic foods and drinks are consumed play a crucial role in the extent of enamel erosion. For example, sipping an acidic beverage over a prolonged period can cause more harm than consuming it quickly because it prolongs the enamel’s exposure to acid. Similarly, brushing your teeth immediately after consuming acidic substances can accelerate enamel erosion because the acid softens the tooth enamel. HOW CAN WE PREVENT ACID EROSION? To reduce the negative impact of acidic foods and drinks on our enamel, we have some tips. First, reduce the intake of highly acidic foods and beverages. When consuming acidic items, it’s beneficial to pair them with meals rather than having them stand alone, as this can help neutralize the acids. Drinking through a straw can also minimize contact with teeth. Maintaining an oral hygiene routine is essential. Waiting at least 30 minutes to brush your teeth after consuming acidic foods or drinks allows the enamel to re-harden and decreases the risk of erosion. Additionally, using fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen tooth enamel. For any questions or guidance on safeguarding your smile against acid, don’t hesitate to reach out — it’s what we are here for! Fighting Back Against Acid Erosion The Battle of the Bite
CRAVEABLE CARROT CAKE
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic carrot cake!
• 2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tsp baking powder • 1 tsp baking soda • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp nutmeg • 1/2 tsp salt • 2 cups granulated sugar INGREDIENTS
• 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil • 4 large eggs • 3 cups grated carrots • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional) • Cream cheese frosting (optional)
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Grease and flour a 9x13-inch pan. 3. In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. 4. In a large bowl, beat together sugar, oil, and eggs. 5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until blended. 6. Stir in carrots and walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan. 7. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 8. Cool in pan before serving. (For extra decadence, spread with cream cheese frosting once the cake cools.)
TAKE A BREAK
ARBOR ARIES
BASEBALL CHERRIES CHOCOLATE DAISY DIAMOND ENVIRONMENT GARDEN KITE
RAINBOW SHOWERS
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TYLER - 903-597-2201
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
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Oral Cancer — Understanding Your Risks
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3 Ways to Build Healthy Habits
The Unlikely Origins of Toothpaste
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Guarding Against Acid Erosion
Craveable Carrot Cake
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Discover the Healing Wonders of Hot Springs THE ALLURE OF HOT SPRINGS
Earth’s Geothermal Wonder
Soaking in the heated waters of a hot spring is an experience you’ll want again and again once you try it. And there is much more to this geothermal wonder than meets the eye. The naturally heated, mineral-rich water nourishes the body and mind, allowing you to shed stress as you easily float on the surface. HOW HOT SPRINGS WORK Hot springs are heated by geothermal energy. Water meets volcanic hot rocks, resulting in boiling mineral-rich water. Regions far away from volcanic activity can also have hot springs; those occur when a spring runs so deep that it hits rocks close to the Earth’s crust. These rocks are naturally very hot, which then heats the water. HOW MINERALS AND HEAT IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH The water in hot springs contains a plethora of minerals, so the water can be healthy and
rejuvenating, providing benefits for your skin, cardiovascular system, and more. Every spring has a unique mineral makeup and varied health effects, but here are four of the most common.
hard enough, you can find one anywhere. Some hot springs are deep in the mountains, so you’ll have to hike in. They often have spectacular views and are worth the journey. If you don’t want to trek up a mountain, you’ll find many spas built around hot springs that offer amenities besides the spring, such as restaurants and saunas. So, the next time you’re traveling, locate the hot springs in your area and put a visit on your itinerary!
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Improved Blood Circulation: Minerals like calcium, iron, and sodium bicarbonate are great for blood circulation, as they promote oxygen flow. Radiant Skin: Nitrogen, silica, and other minerals are excellent for exfoliating skin. Less Stress: As the warm water melts stress away, the magnesium and lithium improve your mood. Pain Reduction: Sulfate helps reduce pain, while hot water soothes muscles and reduces inflammation.
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WHERE YOU CAN FIND HOT SPRINGS The western part of the U.S. has a higher concentration of hot springs, but if you look
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