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January/February 2026
THE HEIGHTS SMILE Herald
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
PRIORITIZE YOURSELF, INSPIRE OTHERS Your Health Is an Act of Love
Life is always going to keep us busy, and we often end up putting things off. There are times I’ve done it, too. I wouldn’t have found out I had GERD a couple of years ago if my wife hadn’t finally convinced me to go to the doctor’s appointment I’d been avoiding. Armed with that knowledge, I was able to address it, giving me one less thing to worry about and more energy to be present with the people I love. January is Self-Love Month, and collectively, we need to get past the preconceived notion or social stigma that taking care of ourselves is selfish. If we are healthier as whole people, we will be more engaged, impactful, compassionate, and understanding with those around us. We can set a good example and help more people because we helped ourselves. Self-love is often talked about in terms of spa days and special treats, but it’s really about thinking about what matters in your life and what you must do to experience that as long as possible. Your health is a really good place to
Bloody gums are a sign to see the dentist and may cause you to schedule a check-up with your doctor. But bloody gums are rarely the reason people make significant changes; they make big changes because of their lives. Years ago, we had a patient who was a smoker with advanced periodontal disease. One day, he told us he quit smoking, went to the periodontist, and was getting his dental health back in order. So, what changed in him? “I’ve got grandkids now,” he said. He had people in his life to be around for. He wanted to see them graduate from school, get married, have their own kids, and live their lives. He didn’t quit smoking because he no longer liked cigarettes or because we told him to go to the periodontist. He did it because he saw that quitting would help him achieve what he wanted most in life. As a dentist, I’m one data point in someone’s life, but if I can be a positive reinforcement or inspiration for someone to take action on their health, I will. As we work toward cultivating more self-love, we can support one another. I know that if I get proper sleep and eat healthily, I’ll be a better version of myself and can hopefully make a positive impact on the people around me. There
start. From a medical standpoint, we know that early prevention and regular check-ups have
a domino effect on your overall health. Many serious health problems, such as stroke or cardiovascular concerns, can be caught sooner when you get a screening or visit for something else.
are those days I really want that pizza, and my wife or kids may gently nudge or remind me of better options. We can encourage each other to make sure we take time for ourselves. Taking care of ourselves isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most important ways we can show love to ourselves and those around us. By prioritizing our health and well-being, we cultivate the energy and presence necessary to care for the people we love. -Dr. Jason Schermer
Your dental health plays a bigger role in your overall wellness than you may realize. As your dentist, I can’t treat heart disease or diabetes, but I can treat gums and teeth, which can help prevent both. If we see signs that something may be cause for concern, we can work with the physician and medical team, and alert you so it doesn’t escalate. We can inspire you to take care of yourself.
For example, American Heart Month is coming up in February, and there is a clear connection between regular brushing and flossing and heart health.
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HIDDEN WARNING SIGNS YOUR DENTIST CAN SPOT Your Smile Could Save Your Heart
Taking care of your heart is one of the most important acts of self-love. You may wonder what your tooth issues or bleeding gums have to do with your cardiovascular health, but research has consistently found a link between the
oral health changes can all signal systemic issues linked to your heart. The plaque that can build up on your teeth can also clog your arteries and lead to heart disease. If your dentist finds excessive plaque or cavities, it may indicate that the problem is spreading to other areas as
two. February is American Heart Month, and while your dentist can’t diagnose heart problems, regular dental check-ups and care can help identify early warning signs and support your overall health. Maximize Your Dental Appointments Your dentist is in a prime position to detect early indicators of problems throughout the body. According to the American Heart Association, more than 100 conditions can cause signs in the mouth. If your dentist notices warning signs of bigger health issues, they will refer you to another medical provider. To maximize the benefits of your dental appointments,
well. If you have gum disease or an infection, the bacteria can spread to different parts of your body, entering your bloodstream and causing inflammation associated with heart disease. Your Health Ally Though your dentist can’t treat heart disease, they are your ultimate health ally. Beyond identifying warning signs of heart problems, they are there to help you better understand how proper dental care leads to a longer, healthier life. They can encourage you to seek early treatment and give you advice on the daily care at home your mouth needs.
schedule regular visits and share updates about your overall health. If you have any health concerns, even those unrelated to your teeth, it’s essential to inform your dentist, as they may identify a connection you are not aware of. The Oral-Heart Connection Medical studies worldwide have investigated the relationship between oral health and cardiovascular health. Gum inflammation, bleeding, and other
At Exceptional Smiles, we’re here to support not just a healthy, happy smile, but your overall health as well. Contact us to schedule your next appointment so we can work together to protect your teeth and your heart.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “This office is like a spa experience compared to where I have been in the past! Everyone is excellent at what they do. My teeth have never been so clean! Dr. Schermer also recemented a crown I struggled with for the past 7 years allowing me to finally chew normally again. My 6-year-old daughter loved her cleaning so much, she can’t wait to come back. I am so thankful for such a wonderful dental team.” -JoAnna J. “Everyone was very friendly, courteous and professional. Very meticulous and every procedure was thoroughly explained. Regularly checking for any discomforts. They are very high tech but have technologies that add to the quality of care and information. Produced detailed 3D scans and colored 3D photos to show teeth and gums in their entirety to clearly see issues with teeth and gums. Very impressive in all aspects.” -David T.
“If I could give 10 stars to this dental practice, I would. Amazing staff who were very welcoming, friendly, and professional. I have a lot of anxiety when it comes to any dental work, and Dr. Schermer was the best and really put my mind at ease as he walked me through the process of making the crowns for my implants. I am so happy I found a great dentist who cares about his patients.” -Susan S.
“My hygienist Janea was friendly and informative. My dentist came up with an effective treatment plan and calmed all of my concerns. Everything was clean and organized. Best of all, the receptionists were friendly, welcoming, and gave me the confidence to begin my appointment.” -Jason B.
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(440) 483-1003
CONFIDENCE STARTS WITH A SMILE KICK BAD HABITS AND SHINE BRIGHTER WITH INVISALIGN AND WHITENING
Teeth whitening and Invisalign can help you achieve a brighter, straighter smile, but these treatments improve far more than just your reflection. Along with aligning your teeth and giving your grin a glow, improving your dental health offers a wealth of unexpected physical and mental benefits. From contributing to improved heart health to boosting your confidence, these treatments go far beyond cosmetic enhancements. Overall Health Improvements Proper cleaning can be challenging when teeth have rotated, are overcrowded, or have excessive space between them. Food and plaque can accumulate, leading to or exacerbating potential problems like periodontal issues. Not only can Invisalign help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral issues, it can also lead to greater overall health. The bacteria that can cause inflammation in your gums can travel through your bloodstream if untreated, causing other health
concerns. Good oral health can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, ultimately enabling you to live a longer, healthier life. A New You When your smile reflects who you are inside, you feel better about yourself and have a deeper sense of confidence. Teeth whitening and Invisalign treatments can improve your professional and social life and your self-esteem. You will naturally smile more, impacting your mood and making interactions with the people around you more meaningful. The more confident you feel about your teeth, the more likely you are to speak up in the workplace, make a strong first impression, or try something new. Bad Habit Busters If you have bad habits you’ve been trying to break, improving your oral health can help you make a major change. Invisalign has helped some
people stop biting their nails, grinding their teeth, and even sleep better. Aligners essentially block you from these habits. After teeth whitening, people often make dietary adjustments, such as reducing their sugar intake. Improving your smile is a form of self-care that you’ll notice in pictures and your everyday life. If you want to learn if teeth whitening and Invisalign are right for you, contact us today. This January, we’re offering a buy-one-get-one-free deal on teeth whitening, and in February, ask us about our Best Deal Ever promotion for Invisalign.
Korean Ground Beef
LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH Q: What do you call a fish with no eyes? A: A fsh. Q: What do you call a cow with no legs? A: Ground beef. Q: What’s the difference between a poorly dressed man on a bicycle and a well dressed man on a unicycle? A: Attire.
Ingredients Sauce •
Directions 1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes. Set aside. 2. In a large skillet,
1/4 cup reduced- sodium soy sauce 1 tbsp honey, or a liquid sugar-free sweetener 1 tsp cornstarch 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes 2 tbsp avocado oil 1 lb lean ground beef, 85/15 1 tbsp fresh garlic, minced 1 tbsp fresh ginger root, minced
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heat avocado oil over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook, stirring, until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as you cook, about 5 minutes. 3. Drain the beef and return it to the skillet. Add garlic and ginger and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. 4. Stir sauce into the beef, then cook for 2 more minutes, until heated through and the sauce thickens. 5. Off heat, drizzle the dish with sesame oil, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve over white rice (if desired).
Stir Fry •
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Finishing Touches • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
Inspired by HealthyRecipesBlogs.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 Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish
2 Plaque Isn’t Just for Teeth
What People Are Saying About Us
3 Healthier Teeth, Happier You
Korean Ground Beef
4 The Joys and Jolts of Sneaker-Free Strolls
SOLE SEARCHING: IS WALKING BAREFOOT A STEP TOWARD WELLNESS OR TOE TROUBLE?
Many people say something special happens when you feel the sand or grass on your bare feet, but is walking shoeless really a step in the right direction for your health, or just a toe trend? Walking barefoot has been touted for its wellness benefits, helping with everything from improved posture to a greater sense of calm. But hot sidewalks, the potential for infections, and achy heels could all be unwanted side effects of your sandal-free stroll. Before you kick it au naturel, here’s what you need to know about this grounded gait.
knees, hips, and back. Beyond the physical pluses, evidence shows it’s good for your mood to walk barefoot in nature, especially on grass or sand. It can create a grounding effect that reduces stress and can lead to better sleep. Toe Troubles Shoes protect your tootsies from sharp objects, grime, and harmful bacteria, so when you ditch your boots, you risk cuts, infections, and bruising. Not all pathways are created equal, and if you walk on hot surfaces, slippery ground, or poky pebbles, you could get burns, blisters, or even frostbite. It can also be hard on your body. Most of us have been wearing footwear our entire lives, and unsupported movement can change how weight hits our feet. It can cause aches and pains and add additional pressure on your paws. If you are going to take the plunge and kick off your shoes, start with short bursts on soft, clean ground. Heed your heels, and if you feel any pain or irritation, slip your sneakers back on.
Walk for Wellness Walking barefoot can help strengthen your muscles because it forces your feet to work overtime. Shoes tend to limit your natural movement, so going sans sneakers is like a workout for your feet. It can also enhance your balance and coordination, decreasing your fall risk. You’re setting yourself up for better posture when you stroll without shoes, too. Ill-fitting footwear can lead to misalignments and strain your
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