Kenneth Woo DDS - August 2019

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A Recent Trip to China

WOO’S NEWS

OBSERVING A COUNTRY IN CONSTANT CHANGE

Since I left Hong Kong to attend university in the U.S. decades ago, China has changed dramatically. This spring, I had the opportunity to visit the country again, reunite with old friends and

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family, marvel at some of the progress that has been made, and serve underprivileged students. I missed the place and I hope that I can come back again, and this year's trip was another one for the memory books.

This past March, my wife Lisa and I traveled to China with a group from Australia, including my sister and brother-in-law. Cities that we visited included Xiamen, Wuyishan, Jingdezheng, and Hong Kong. In Xiamen, we took a high-speed train that traveled over 300km/hour (roughly 186 mph). It was very quiet and smooth — you could barely feel it move as you're riding. With that speed, you can travel to New York City in less than two hours! The thing that impressed me the most during my visit was the younger generation in China. Compared to years ago, this generation is courteous and understanding. Even the people we met along the road were polite, and I was very encouraged by every interaction. It made me proud to see that honesty and integrity were valuable to the younger generation.

Day was in May, I think it is never too late to show our appreciation and say thank you to our wonderful teachers in the U.S.

I even saw education in action during my trip. A highlight was being able to visit a remote primary school in the Jianxi province. During this visit, the group we were with brought books and classroommaterials to the school. Being a dentist, I brought a bunch of toothbrushes to distribute. It was a wonderful opportunity for us and one I will not soon forget as I witnessed the smiles from the children's faces and the emphasis on education as a catalyst for progress. I truly love traveling and exploring new cities around the world, although home for me is without a doubt here in the United States. I am grateful for my wonderful team at Woo Wang Dental for allowing me to work with a flexible schedule so that I may take a pause in life to smell the flowers, catch a smile, and to see people in different parts of the world.

I think this phenomenon has to do with a great emphasis on education. Education is empowerment in our society, and we rely on our teachers to educate and excite our future generations. Teachers are to thank for many scientific advancements, literary works of art, and most importantly, being the role model for our children and grandchildren. They build an enthusiasm for learning and encourage students to work hard, even in subjects that they may be weaker in. A good teacher can also be a friend who gives support and guidance to the students not just academically but morally as well. Even though Teacher Appreciation

I am sure everyone had a wonderful summer. I wish everyone a beautiful start to fall as well!

–Kenneth Woo, DDS

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A Summer Send-Off for Your Garden

3 Ways to Prepare Your Garden for the Changing Season

Late summer is the perfect time to clean up your garden and prepare it

should include any invasive plants or weeds that found their way into the soil. Remember to use gloves, wear long pants and socks, and use caution around thorns or plants that can cause irritation. For daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and any other bulbs that sprang up in the spring, you can now pull them up (if you haven’t already) and divide any bulblets you find into separate plants. This will help cut down on crowding even more come spring. Take Cover Cover crops are plants that improve soil health, reduce erosion, and keep your garden healthy, and now is a great time to plant them! Hardy legumes, field peas, certain types of clovers, and warm-season grasses can all work as cover crops, so talk to your landscaper or local nursery to pick out the best choices for your region. While you may not see the fruits of your labors until spring, you can still enjoy preparing your garden for a successful upcoming year and cherish the time you spend with your family outside.

for the coming winter. In the next couple of months, the temperature will start to drop, but by putting in work now, you can ensure your garden is healthy and ready to flourish next spring. You can

even turn garden cleanup into a fun activity for the whole family. Here are three ways to get your garden ready for the next season, while sharing some valuable outdoor time with your loved ones.

More Mulch, Please While most gardeners know the benefits of summer mulching, winter mulching can help lessen water loss, keep weeds out, and regulate soil temperatures during the colder months. It offers an added layer of protection for your plants’ roots, which can be sensitive to continuous freezing and thawing, by keeping the soil temperature more consistent.

Out With the Old If any of your plants didn’t fare so well, take some time to remove them and clear space for future plants. This removal

Before summer comes to a close, go on a mini getaway through Gaithersburg. Check out some of these local spots for a historical tour of our colonial city! A FAMOUS TREE AND THE MAN WHO LIVED THERE A forest oak tree grew where Maryland Route 355, commonly called the “Great Road West,” would eventually travel. Benjamin Gaither built a house in colonial America in 1802 on the same property where the city’s most famous tree was still just a sapling. Benjamin would die 26 years later, but his legacy lives on as Gaithersburg, which was officially incorporated on April 5, 1878. In 1975, the old Forest Oak tree was estimated to be around 275 years old! This means it has been front and center for some of Gaithersburg’s most storied events. JUST PASSING THROUGH Much like the remainder of the northeastern part of the U.S., Gaithersburg has revolutionary claims to fame. Both General George Washington and General Edward Braddock would travel through Gaithersburg while leading troops to fight in the Revolutionary War. Of course, General Washington would later become President Washington, the first president of the United States. City folklore often cites the famous Forest Oak for having borne witness to these historic travels. The Unique History of Gaithersburg A COLONIAL CITY

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT

The Gaithersburg Latitude Observatory was built in 1899, and it served as one of five

observatories across the globe that focused on gathering pertinent data about our stars and space. While the

observatory closed in 1982, the observations gathered there are still used by scientists today! PRESIDENTIAL PARTIES

Given Gaithersburg’s close proximity to Washington D.C., it’s only natural that the city serves as a stop for presidents looking to escape the hustle and bustle of running a country. One such destination within our city limits was the famous peony garden at Edward Schwartz’s home. Schwartz planted the garden in 1913, stretching the landmark from the railway station to Hutton Street. With more than 410 varieties of peonies, Schwartz’s garden was a phenom adored by many tourists, including former President Woodrow Wilson. Today, Schwartz’s home is Gaithersburg City Hall.

Learn more fun facts about our city and check out local hot spots by visiting GaithersburgMD.gov.

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Bridges Vs. Dental Implants

Q: What do dentists call X-rays?

As you age, your body shows signs of wear and tear. Your joints seem stiffer, you squint more, and even your

A: Tooth pics!

teeth become a little discolored. You may become embarrassed about your smile, but you don’t have to keep living that way! Below are two options for repairing your teeth so you can age with confidence. Bridges

WHICH OPTION IS BEST FOR YOU?

Summertime Gazpacho

A bridge is a great alternative to full-mouth repairs for patients who are struggling with one or two missing, chipped, or decaying teeth. Aptly named, bridges literally “bridge the gap” in your smile. A false tooth fills the space where your decayed, missing, or chipped tooth once sat. This replacement is held in place by abutments, which are fastened into the gums and bones adjacent to the missing tooth. Crowns are placed on healthy teeth next to the gap, which protect your bridge and give it stability. Bridges can fill larger gaps, but additional crowns and abutments are needed. Dental Implants Dental implants mimic bridges in the sense that false teeth are utilized in both procedures to replace real teeth. However, dental implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth. Instead, dental implants are anchored to the bone and jaw and function as permanent, stable dentures. Dental implants are surgically implanted into a patient’s mouth with “teeth” that are designed and colored to match a patient’s smile. The process can seem overwhelming, but it’s a very common procedure with little pain. Caring for Your False Teeth Bridges and dental implants are designed to function and mimic the anatomy of your real teeth. So, just like your regular chompers, false teeth need regular cleaning, flossing, and appointments to maintain their health. In addition, avoid using your teeth as tools to open things. This can damage all your teeth, including the anchoring on dental implants and bridges. Coupled with health and safety reasons, bridges and dental implants are a big investment. Protect them by adhering to regular cleanings and oral health.

Inspired by CookieAndKate.com

Gazpacho, an Andalusian soup made of blended

vegetables and traditionally served cold, is the perfect refresher on a warm summer day.

Ingredients

2 1/2 lbs ripe tomatoes; cored, seeded, and cut into 1-inch chunks 1 small cucumber; peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch chunks 1 red bell pepper; cored, seeded, and sliced into ribbons 1 small Vidalia onion, peeled and cubed

• • • • • •

1/4 cup basil leaves 1 clove garlic, peeled

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tbsp sherry vinegar

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Place a blender and medium mixing bowl on your workstation. 2. Divide the tomato chunks, cucumber pieces, and bell pepper slices evenly between blender and bowl. Place entire onion in blender. 3. Add basil, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper to blender. Blend on low, gradually raising speed to high until smooth, about 2 minutes. 4. Add blender contents to bowl and mix until just broken up, about 10–20 seconds. 5. Let mixture sit in fridge for a minimum of 2 hours. Transfer to bowls and serve.

You deserve a smile that you love! Learn more about how the dental experts at Woo Wang Dental can help you find a solution that fits your lifestyle by calling 301.993.1833 or 240.683.3833. Learn more about bridges, dental implants, and other options online at MyBestDentalCare.com.

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WHAT'S INSIDE?

Dr. Woo’s China Trip! 1

A Summer Send-Off for Your Garden Celebrating Local History 2 Choosing Between Bridges and Dental Implants Summertime Gazpacho 3

How Goat Yoga Helps You Get in Shape 4

Yoga With … Goats?!

THIS YEAR’S STRANGEST FITNESS TREND

For those who may be looking for a hidden or reasonable meaning behind the term “goat yoga,” you’re out of luck because it’s exactly what it sounds like. In this age of kale smoothies and paleolithic diets, there are few things people won’t try to get in shape. Luckily, as with most fads, there aren’t many downsides to thinking outside the box with your fitness. With a million different ways to stay healthy in this world, doing yoga alongside a tribe of goats may not be so strange after all.

dog. Don’t panic though! That’s all part of the process. These interactions are meant to keep you focused, grounded, and connected with both yourself and the nature around you. If you’re looking for a speedy workout, this may not be for you, but if you’re looking for an afternoon you won’t soon forget, you’ll have to find the nearest goat specialist.

Everyone who participates in one of these classes ultimately walks away with something a little different. Some shared results are usually reduced stress and anxiety, pain relief, a

At face value, including farm animals in your therapeutic workout routine seems counterintuitive, but it’s intended to be quite the opposite. With this type of yoga, goats will wander around your mat and even take the time to climb on your back or lick your feet while you’re in downward

boost in happiness, and mental clarity. While we’re starting to hear more about it this year, goat yoga actually sprang up in 2016 and has grown into chapters all around the world, capturing the hearts of everyone, even including some big-name celebrities. Advocates for goat yoga continue to rave that there is no better distraction from the perils of work stress, sickness, depression, and political strife than their sacred farmland pastime.

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