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July/August 2024
THE HEIGHTS SMILE Herald
(440) 483-1003
5825 Landerbrook Drive, Suite 121, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Sunshine, Sweat, and Life Lessons
THE REAL REWARDS OF SUMMER EMPLOYMENT
I admit, I wasn’t the biggest fan of summer work when I was younger. Now, maybe that’s not so unusual, as there are many more entertaining ways for youth to spend time off than in a factory assembling wood products — that was one of my early ones, and I only lasted a month. Regardless of the type of summer job and how much fun we do or don’t have during it, there’s no denying how valuable of a growth experience this is. As the summer continues into its later months, I can’t help but reflect on the lessons my summer jobs taught me and what it’s like watching my children start working. Though I quickly learned the wood parts factory wasn’t the right fit for me, I couldn’t sit around all summer. After quitting that job, I remember coming home and my mother asking me what I would do next. I thought the couch looked comfortable for the rest of the summer, but she didn’t see it the same way. She told me to find another job, or she’d find one for me. My mother was the director at her office, where they did archaeological fieldwork throughout the state. They had a field project that needed crew members at the time, and Mom “volunteered” me. The job included a lot of outdoor physical work, and though it was hard work, I enjoyed it. I got the opportunity to see the state on my various travels for the job, and I was able to interact with people from all walks of life. This summer job helped me build communication skills, showed me how different people live, and allowed me to spend time outside, which is never bad. I worked there for the rest of my summers through my first year of dental school. Over the years, I had a mix of fun summer jobs and those I didn’t enjoy as much. All those jobs taught me valuable lessons that helped me to become who I am today. The main things I learned were how I wanted to treat people, how I wanted to be treated, and what I didn’t want to experience. Working as a young person helps us see what we might want to do in the future and helps us build hard and soft skills. From communication to responsible behavior, first and summer jobs give us hands-on experience to prepare for the adult world. Seeing my daughters embark on their summer jobs has been interesting as a parent. Their experiences differ vastly from mine, but they are gaining some of the same life lessons I did. One of my daughters, in her junior
year of college, has been working off-campus over the summer at a physical therapy clinic and a restaurant. It’s weird not having her home, but seeing her get that first taste of independence is admirable. Last summer, she worked as a camp counselor, which was fun and gave her a lot of responsibilities to manage. Another one of my daughters worked for a big retail chain, and my youngest daughter worked at a smaller retail boutique.
I’ve watched my daughters develop the skills that sometimes get overlooked in the technological age they live in — face-to-face communication. It was especially difficult for young people during the COVID-19 pandemic when everything was shut down. Teenagers didn’t have many opportunities to interact with people of different ages, backgrounds, and lives at the time. My daughters have found common ground by having summer jobs and picked up those essential interpersonal skills. Summer jobs are often our first introduction to the ways of the working world. Whether we enjoyed every second or dreaded those early professional experiences, they helped shape us as adults. These jobs aren’t just about earning a paycheck but about gaining invaluable life lessons and preparing for the future. -Dr. Jason Schermer
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From Immigrant Dreams to Voting Booths
HONORING DIVERSE JOURNEYS THIS FOURTH OF JULY
Recently, a patient shared her big news with me. She had just earned her American citizenship, and during a time with so much polarization in the world, it’s beautiful to see someone so excited and proud to be here. As we celebrate Independence Day this month, I can’t help but think of what it truly means to be an American and the journey thousands of people take each year to call themselves citizens. For me, the words of newly minted Americans show us the spirit of collaboration and freedom that our country is meant to embody at its very core. My patient and her husband look forward to celebrating the Fourth of July as citizens for the first time this year. But their parting message to me was that they are most excited about the right to vote. For many foreign-born individuals working and living
in the U.S., having their voice heard in the electoral system is one of the greatest American dreams. What’s more, recent research has found that more immigrants who become naturalized are voting in U.S. elections and even running for elected offices in their communities so they can make a difference. I’ll never forget what another patient I know had to say about his thoughts on political divisions in this country. He said, “I don’t look at things as red or blue. I look at them as red, white, and blue.” The situation is often tense in today’s world regarding politics, and it’s inspiring and hopeful to hear people more excited about the prospect of America’s future than choosing a side.
the same viewpoints or beliefs. We convince ourselves that our differences are too vast to reach an agreement. The truth is, we are all more alike than we are different. Regardless of your political beliefs, financial status, or background, if you are an American citizen, it’s because your ancestors immigrated here. America is a country made of millions of immigrant stories, and this Independence Day, I hope you take a moment to think about what brings us together as humans. To see citizenship through the eyes of a naturalized American is to witness the ideals of Democracy in their purest forms.
-Dr. Jason Schermer
Too often, we let divisions separate us. We pit ourselves against those who do not share
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING “The team does an excellent job! I’m pleased with the attention to detail, prompt follow-up, and courteous staff. Keep up the good work!” -Shelly — “The service here, both customer and professional is exceptional!! This is the blueprint for how to operate a dental practice!! Everyone is on their game and I just wish I knew about them 20 years ago!” -Robert — “Such a friendly and fun atmosphere. I have been a patient for over 16 years. And it just keeps getting better!” -Kevin
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(440) 483-1003
ALLERGIES DON’T STOP AT YOUR NOSE SEASONAL SNIFFLES CAN WREAK HAVOC ON YOUR SMILE
For allergy sufferers, summer is less about taking in the warm sunshine and more about combating itchy eyes and runny noses. But along with all the traditional symptoms of allergies, they can also impact oral health. From tooth pain to dry mouth, several oral side effects can accompany allergies or hay fever. If you don’t want to spend the summer sneezing and grinding your teeth, it’s essential to understand the connection between allergies and dental health. TOOTH PAIN When your body fights pollen and other allergens, hollow spaces in your head fill with mucus, which can lead to pain. The largest sinuses in your face are above the mouth, so when pressure builds there, it can travel to the roots of your upper molars. To address this problem, you can take over-the-counter pain or allergy medication or a nasal spray. On high-pollen days, you should limit your time spent outdoors.
DRY MOUTH One of the most common oral health symptoms of allergies is dry mouth, which can happen for a few reasons. When you are congested, you are more likely to breathe out of your mouth, and many of the antihistamines available to treat your allergy symptoms also cause dry mouth. This condition is not only uncomfortable, but it can also lead to other dental problems like bad breath and gum disease. Saliva helps to wash away bacteria and debris from our mouths, so when you can’t produce enough of it, it can lead to cavities. Make sure to drink plenty of water and gargle with warm salt water to help kill bacteria. SWOLLEN GUMS Allergies can also cause your gums to become inflamed or swollen. The postnasal drip associated with the sniffles and dry mouth can lead to pain in your gums. When exposed to allergens, your immune system releases
histamines and chemicals, and the inflammatory response can impact the oral cavity. If your gums are swollen, they are more vulnerable to infection and bacteria. It’s crucial to continue your regular brushing and flossing. As you tackle those pesky allergies this season, remember to give your oral health some extra TLC. If you don’t see relief after allergy medications or something doesn’t feel right, contact your dentist to ensure the symptoms you are experiencing aren’t a more severe issue.
LEAH’S BAD DAD JOKES OF THE MONTH
Quinoa Veggie Bowl
This recipe is packed with protein-rich quinoa and a colorful array of vegetables. It’s ideal for a healthy lunch or a quick dinner!
Q: Why is the corner the best place to stand in a cold house? A: Because it’s always 90 degrees there. Q: How many Stormtroopers does it take to change a lightbulb? A: None; they’re all on the dark side.
Ingredients •
2 tbsp olive oil
• • • •
1 cup diced mushrooms
• • •
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup diced zucchini
2 cups cooked quinoa
Directions 1.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 2. Add bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 3. Add oregano, salt, and pepper and stir to combine. 4. Add the cooked quinoa and mix thoroughly. 5. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, then serve.
If you would like your favorite joke featured, email Office@exceptionalsmiles.com You may see it in our next issue!
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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 Summer Jobs Are More Than a Paycheck 2 Voices of New Americans on Independence Day What People Are Saying About Us 3 The Surprising Link Between Allergies and Oral Health Quinoa Veggie Bowl 4 Importance of Exercise to Improve Balance
EXERCISES TO IMPROVE EVERYDAY STABILITY BATTLE FOR BALANCE
Did you know that around a quarter of adults 65 and older experience a fall every year? Falls are the leading cause of injuries for seniors, and the risk of falling increases as we get older. Our balance declines as we age, and poor balance is a substantial contributing factor to falls among older people. While the fear of falling leads many seniors to avoid exercise altogether, this is not a good strategy. Exercising, staying on top of medications, and getting your vision checked are all keys to maintaining balance in your golden years and reducing the risk of falls. Here are some potential causes of imbalance and methods for seniors to improve their balance and lower their risk of falling.
BODILY BALANCE Many seniors experience balance and dizziness problems. These can be a side effect of some medications or brought on by balance disorders or other underlying medical conditions. Inner ear problems cause one such balance disorder; one part of the inner ear, the labyrinth, plays a big part in balance. If infected, it can lead to a condition called labyrinthitis, which can lead to bodily imbalance. If you believe you suffer from a balance disorder, your primary physician may refer you to a specialist, such as an otolaryngologist or audiologist, for help. METHODS OF IMPROVEMENT Fortunately, you can combat balance problems. One method millions of people lean on is a device meant to improve mobility, namely canes and walkers. While these can be helpful, they can sometimes hamper balance and may require more effort than their support merits. Moreover, some research indicates they may actually contribute to falls in some instances. That is why it is important to incorporate exercise into your routine, eat healthily, and manage any medical conditions to improve your balance and combat the risk of falling. One form of helpful exercise is strength training, which involves lifting weights or using resistance bands to build muscle strength that naturally declines in old age. Whatever your method of combating imbalance, the effort is worth it. Staving off falls can contribute to a longer, happier life.
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