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May/June 2026
THE HEIGHTS SMILE Herald
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
REDISCOVER THE JOY OF ANALOG EXPERIENCES Disconnect to Reconnect
National Drive-In Movie Day and International Clothesline Week both take place the first weekend of June. They are celebrations of the analog, by-hand, old-school ways of doing things. And, in today’s digital age, doing something that’s disconnected from the internet reminds us that not everything meaningful has to happen behind a screen. Hands-on, unplugged experiences and tools are still valuable today, in life and even in dentistry. The field of dentistry went from being entirely analog to what it is now, with lots of digital technologies. It’s amazing what new tools are available and how they can enhance the patient experience and oral health care. But when something doesn’t work, a computer system goes down, or a tongue gets in the way of one of these devices, the traditional methods dentists have used for years are the solution. Many dental schools now go straight into teaching the digital part, and the analog part often gets left to the wayside. Most professional industries have seen the same evolution, and even in our homes, “old- school” ways of doing things are no longer the norm. You can order a meal prep kit that you microwave for a few minutes, and you’re done. It does the trick; it feeds your belly, you get nutrition, and it’s done quickly. But there’s something fun and almost therapeutic about designing the menu yourself. You have to gather the ingredients, learn how to prepare it, and use all the different tools to make it. When
you eat it, you can tell the difference. Homemade always tastes better, especially if you cooked it with someone you care about. It’s not just cooking. Whenever you spend time together doing something unplugged from the ether, it feels different. It could be yardwork, hanging clothes on the line to dry, or just spending time talking without a TV on. You end up actually connecting with the people around you, and maybe even yourself. The thing about analog skills is you really have to learn them from someone who’s already done it. Whether it’s a mentor in dental school or your grandparent, if they are willing to show you how to do something, take advantage of it. You will see their unique perspective, hear their stories, and their own language to describe it. Technology is a wonderful thing, and it’s going to be around for a long, long time. But moments like your grandma sharing the recipe for her signature dish won’t be around forever. YouTube, social media, and high-def tools have their purpose, but they shouldn’t be at the expense of relationships with real people in the real world. Cook a dish you’ve never made before with someone who knows how to do it, go on a hike, or explore the plants in your own backyard. Whatever it is, unplug, go old-school, and enjoy the people around you. -Dr. Jason Schermer
In my hometown, as in many others, there was a drive-in movie theater right in the middle of a cornfield. Growing up, we would pack as many people in the car as possible, pull up for a movie, and experience the joys of the low-def speaker, laughing with our friends. Some of you might have memories of your own, loading up on bug spray and watching a movie from the car. There’s still a drive-in close to where we live, and during COVID-19, that’s where my oldest daughter had her high school graduation ceremony. Everyone drove in and watched from their cars as the kids crossed the stage. It was a unique celebration and a clever way to honor the graduates despite pandemic restrictions. Being there, the concession stand still exactly the way it was when I was a kid, brought back memories of watching double features when we were young and later with our children. The technology never really changed, but the world around this retro landmark has shifted forever.
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THE ART OF DOING THINGS THE OLD-FASHIONED WAY Hands-on Happiness
These days, nearly everything we do happens through a screen. When we set our phone aside, even briefly, it helps create space to slow down, focus, and reconnect with people and activities we love. There are simple and fun ways to unplug, whether it’s putting pen to paper, cooking a meal with a family member, or exploring your community the old-fashioned way. These small analog experiences can bring a sense of calm and presence in the digital world. WRITE There’s something to writing with a nice pen on actual paper. It brings a bit of nostalgia and can help things stick in your mind in a way that typing or texting doesn’t. Journaling is a great way to unplug and make sense of your thoughts and feelings. You can take a few minutes each day to write about your day, what you experienced, or even a gratitude list. Treat yourself to a new journal and pen. The process helps you understand yourself better and can become a reflective part of your routine.
DO IT BY HAND Instead of turning to the internet for answers or entertainment, explore the options outside technology. Turn on the radio instead of a curated playlist, look up a word in the dictionary, or pull out a physical map. Cooking at home, especially with a loved one, is always going to taste and feel better than ordering from a delivery service. So, try preparing a meal once a week. You can even ask a family member a question before asking Google. EXPLORE YOUR COMMUNITY There are likely hidden gems, hangouts, and groups right in your own community that you haven’t explored yet. Walk into your local library for a book or check out a new cafe. You can volunteer for an organization or cause that matters to you, allowing you to meet new people and give back. Even a walk in your neighborhood or town is a free way to pass the time without a device.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
“Finally, a 21st-century modern dentist! I’m so happy with the service.” -Mandy — “Excellent service and such a pleasant experience. I highly recommend this team for anything dental-related.” -Michael
“Amazing experience! Dr. Schermer was very detailed in his explanation of everything, and Janae, the dental hygienist, was gentle and walked me through the process. Jordan in reception was fantastic as well! Very, very much recommend.” -Lexi
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THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS HOW LASERS AND TRADITIONAL DENTISTRY WORK TOGETHER
The world of dentistry is always evolving, and tools like dental lasers offer new opportunities to enhance the in-chair experience. They don’t replace techniques dentists have used for decades, they enhance them. Some of the best results happen when laser technology works together with traditional “analog” tools. By blending both, we can tailor treatment and create a smoother experience for patients. PRECISION CARE WITH LASERS Lasers are just one of many tools we use when treating a variety of oral health care needs. They use light energy to target specific needs, such as
removing decay, treating periodontal disease, and preparing teeth for fillings. Because these lasers are so precise, they can mean faster healing times and less stress on healthy tissue. If an area is hypersensitive, the laser can often numb it better than just Novocaine alone. It is also quieter than the traditional handpiece we use, reducing the noise to a more comfortable level. TRADITIONAL TOOLS MATTER As advanced as lasers are, there are still some procedures where traditional tools perform better. They have reliable results, and digital tools just can’t replace the tactile precision of analog equipment and time-tested skill. Lasers may not be powerful enough for complex oral surgeries or for removing large metal fillings. Conventional dentistry can complement laser dentistry to enhance the overall experience. A BALANCED APPROACH TO CARE Analog and digital tools work hand in hand to provide a personalized treatment plan catered to your unique situation. When we are determining what the best care for you looks like, we’ll evaluate your goals, needs, and comfort level. We may very well use a combination of laser technology and traditional methods to give you the best experience and results. At Exceptional Smiles, we combine trusted techniques with modern technologies, such as dental lasers, to provide precise, comfortable care. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. This June, we’re offering $100 off laser treatments for our patients.
Shrimp Taco Soup
LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH Q: Why are libraries so tall? A: Because they have so many stories.
Ingredients • 1 tbsp chili powder • 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp agave • 2 cups water • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained • 10 oz frozen corn • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined • Jalapeño slices, chopped cilantro,
• 1 tsp garlic powder • 1 tsp onion powder • 2 1/2 tsp kosher salt, divided • Black pepper, to taste • 3 tbsp olive oil • 1 small onion, diced • 1 red bell pepper, diced • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
Greek yogurt, crushed tortilla chips, and lime wedges, for toppings as desired
Q: Why did the cake cross the road? A: It saw a fork approaching.
Directions 1. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 tsp salt, and pepper. 2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat, then add onion and peppers; cook 5–6 minutes. 3. Stir in seasoning mix. 4. Add tomatoes, agave, water, remaining salt, and more pepper to taste. Let simmer for 15 minutes. 5. Stir in beans and corn, then add shrimp. 6. Cook 4–5 minutes, until shrimp are cooked through. 7. Add desired toppings before serving.
If you would like your favorite joke featured, email Office@exceptionalsmiles.com You may see it in our next issue! Q: When does a joke become a dad joke? A: When it becomes apparent.
Inspired by FoodNetwork.com
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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 From Drive-In Memories to Dental Skills
2 The Joy of Doing
What People Are Saying About Us
3 Where Technology and Tradition Create Better Smiles
Shrimp Taco Soup
4 Turning Memories Into a Coping Tool
EASING EVERYDAY PAIN WITH NOSTALGIA
WHY OLD MEMORIES CAN SOFTEN DISCOMFORT
If you have ever sat in a waiting room and scrolled far enough on your phone to hit an old photo or song from your childhood, you may have noticed something. For a minute, the noise in your head quiets. The ache in your shoulder or the sting of a blood draw might not feel quite as sharp. The warm rush that comes with “I remember this” is nostalgia, and it may do more than make us smile. In a recent study, adults had a heating pad that went from cold to very hot placed on their forearms while they looked at images. In some trials, the pictures came from their childhood, like old cartoons and commercials. In others, the pictures were newer and emotionally neutral. The heat remained the same, but people rated the pain as lower when viewing nostalgic images. Brain scans showed why. Areas of the brain that help “turn the volume down” on pain became more active. Of course, nostalgia isn’t medicine, but the study shows it might take the edge off everyday discomforts. The findings also offer real support for the next time you know discomfort is coming. If you are sitting in a waiting room before an in-office procedure, or trying to get through a tough stretch at physical therapy, pull up an old photo that makes you smile, or play a song you loved as a teenager. In the study, people looked at pictures, but the same idea works with music, keepsakes, and even familiar smells from a past time in your life.
None of this replaces real medical care, and it’s not going to erase serious pain. But for those everyday aches and stressful appointments, it can help. You might even make a small “comfort file” on your phone with a few photos and songs tied to good memories. Then, when something feels uncomfortable, you can reach for a nice distraction that might make you feel better … just sitting in your pocket.
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