Exceptional Smiles - January/February 2025

BRUSH UP ON GUM HEALTH PREVENTION TIPS FROM YOUR DENTAL TEAM

When it comes to gum health, preventive steps like brushing and flossing are essential for a healthy, confident smile. February is National Gum Disease Awareness Month, and it’s a perfect time to brush up on the importance of periodontal care. As dentists, we are here to help you stop gum disease before it starts with regular maintenance and home care. Healthy gums don’t just support your teeth; they keep your smile bright and enhance your overall health.

One of the most important things you can do to care for your gums is to brush and floss daily. Flossing helps reach plaque and food that gets stuck beyond where your toothbrush can reach. Brush your teeth at least twice daily, especially after meals, and remember to scrub your tongue. An electric toothbrush can help reduce gingivitis and plaque even better than a manual brush. It’s also crucial to go to your dentist regularly for professional cleanings so you can notice any signs of gum problems. If you are experiencing any symptoms of gum issues, like redness, swelling, or bleeding, we’ll discuss your options in a nonjudgmental way. Our goal is prevention, not confrontation. If gum disease has already started to develop, we will address it together and set you on the right course of action. In certain cases, we will refer you to a trusted periodontist (gum specialist) who can provide advanced care. Our go-to periodontist is a phenomenal clinician who has an incredible ability to put patients at ease. Though you may be dealing with a serious gum situation, he is amazing at taking your mind off the procedure and going above and beyond to ensure you are comfortable. With simple steps like regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, you can keep your gums healthy and your smile bright. Remember, we are your allies in dental health, here to ensure you stay healthy and feel supported every visit. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Inspired by GimmeSomeOven.com

LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH

Citrus Olive Oil Cake

Ingredients •

Q: What do snowmen call their offspring? A: Chill-dren Q: What do you call a winter monster with six-pack abs? A: The Abdominal Snowman Q: Why are snowmen great at parties? A: They always know how to break the ice.

1 cup almond flour

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3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

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3/4 cup sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 tsp almond extract

2/3 cup medium-grind cornmeal

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

Zest of 1 lemon, plus 2 tbsp juice Zest of 1 orange, plus 2 tbsp juice

1/2 tsp sea salt

3 eggs

Powdered sugar, optional

Directions 1. Heat oven to 350 F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment and lightly grease the sides with cooking spray. 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk almond flour, sugar, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt until combined. 3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, olive oil, vanilla, almond extract, and lemon and orange zest and juice. Combine the wet ingredients with dry ingredients. 4. Pour batter into the springform pan. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 15 minutes. 5. Run a knife gently around the edges of the cake, then remove the sides of the pan. If desired, dust cake with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh strainer. exceptionalsmiles.com

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

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