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REPORT THE WELLNESS
JULY/AUGUST 2023
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SENIOR HEALTH SERIES: Bone Density & Oral Health
Over the next several newsletters, we wanted to share important information relating to oral and whole-body health. Today, we want to discuss an important topic that affects many seniors: the impact of osteoporosis on dental health. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by a loss of bone density, making bones weak and brittle.
slowing down bone breakdown and may occasionally lead to a rare condition called osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). ONJ is characterized by jawbone pain, swelling, or infection. While the risk of ONJ is very low, it is crucial to communicate with your dentist before starting any osteoporosis medication so they can evaluate your dental health and determine if any preexisting dental issues need to be addressed before beginning treatment. Your dentist should also provide guidance on dental care during medication use and periodic monitoring. Prevention and Maintenance While osteoporosis cannot be cured, there are steps you can take to maintain good dental health. Proper nutrition, oral hygiene, smoking cessation, limiting alcohol, and regular exercise can reduce your risk for osteoporosis. Remember, early detection and intervention are vital to maintaining dental health
Did you know that the health of your teeth and gums is
closely linked to the strength of your bones? Let’s explore how osteoporosis can affect your dental health and what you can do to maintain a healthy smile. Bone and Tooth Loss Osteoporosis can lead to a decrease in the density of the jawbone, which supports your teeth. When the jawbone becomes weakened, tooth loss becomes more likely. Periodontal Disease Osteoporosis can increase the risk of developing periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, by making it easier for bacteria to invade the bone, leading to gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. Dental Procedures and Medications
when living with osteoporosis. Don’t hesitate to discuss your bone health and any osteoporosis medications with your dentist. They can provide valuable guidance and ensure your dental care aligns with your overall health needs. At Jones & Copeland Smiles, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive dental care for seniors. If you have any concerns or questions about the impact of osteoporosis on your dental health or need guidance regarding osteoporosis medications, please schedule an appointment with our experienced team.
Stay healthy, keep smiling!
If you have osteoporosis or are considering starting osteoporosis medications, it is essential to inform your dentist. Certain medications prescribed for osteoporosis, such as bisphosphonates, and bone density injections/infusions can have implications for dental health. These medications work by
–Drs. Jones, Copeland, Hanna, and Team
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HOW NORDIC WALKING CAN HELP YOU GET MOVING FIND YOUR STRIDE
You’ve heard from your doctors, family, and friends alike how important movement is for individuals as they age. Regular walking is the best way for many older adults to get that daily movement in. But what if going for a walk is easier said than done? That’s why many older adults who suffer from balance and/or mobility issues are partaking in something called Nordic walking or pole walking. What is Nordic walking? Nordic walking is when an individual uses two chest-height poles, much like ski poles, while pushing each one into the ground with every step. The benefit of the poles is that they help the user balance and stand straight, while the act of pushing the poles into the ground actually increases upper body strength and flexibility. What are the benefits of Nordic walking? Aside from helping with balance, strength, and mobility, Nordic walking touts a few other health benefits users can enjoy. • Low Impact: Since Nordic walking uses poles to support the body through each step, there is much less impact on the joints and ligaments. • Reduces Joint Pain: Because Nordic walking poles help the body balance, the user’s joints (especially the back
and knees, which the body typically tends to overcorrect) can find relief. • Improved Cardiovascular Health: Remember, almost any movement is good for you, and Nordic walking is no different. By getting those steps in, you’ll lower your cholesterol and enjoy improved cardiovascular fitness. • Improved Mental Health: Research shows that physical activity boosts mood while actively lowering the risk of depression. And since users of Nordic walking typically walk outdoors, they also enjoy the mental benefits of being around nature. Where can you find Nordic walking poles? The most accessible place to find Nordic walking poles is online. Retailers like Amazon and Bass Pro Shops sell the poles, but a great resource is YorkNordic.com America’s No. 1 Nordic walking pole retailer. If you prefer to shop in person, Target, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and athletic stores typically carry poles too. If you’d like more information on Nordic walking, you can always search the term on Google or YouTube for tips and tricks on starting the habit!
CONTINUING TO KEEP YOU SAFE AND HEALTHY Enhanced Sterilization Protocols and Controls
Hand-sanitizing stations are located throughout the office.
Beverages will be served safely only upon request.
There will be additional time between patients for enhanced sterilization.
Curbside check-in from your vehicle is now available.
Please reschedule if you have a fever or a sick family member.
Medical-grade air filtration is used in all operatories.
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WHAT’S THAT SMELL?
COMBAT BAD BREATH THE NATURAL WAY Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, is caused by the interaction of oral bacteria with processed sugars and starches. This chemical process results in an unpleasant odor.
Snack on yogurt. The probiotics within many yogurts can aid in reducing the harmful bacteria within your mouth, combating foul breath. While all types of yogurt contain probiotics, yogurt with active probiotic cultures will be the most effective for achieving the best results.
Mouthwash, gum, mints, and sprays always have your back when it comes to freshening your breath, but there are many holistic and natural ways to cure chronic bad breath.
Boost your vitamin C levels. Oranges aren’t just a healthy snack! The high levels of vitamin C found in oranges are believed to increase saliva production, which can help prevent dry mouth, bacteria, and halitosis. As another perk, bacteria do not like acidic environments, and oranges are highly acidic! Rinse with baking soda and water. Swishing water and readily available baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, in your mouth can effectively reduce and/or kill the bacteria contributing to bad breath. Bad breath is never welcome! If you are ever worried about the freshness of your breath, give one or two of these natural at-home remedies a try — what have you got to lose?
Drink your water. Did you know that the most common cause of
dry mouth is dehydration? Bacteria can accumulate when there is insufficient saliva to wash food particles and debris from your mouth. Be sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated to keep halitosis under control! Give green tea a whirl. Green tea contains many beneficial antioxidants, such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). EGCG is known to have a microbial effect on our gum tissues, which targets Porphyromonas gingivalis (P.gingivalis), a bacteria that can lead to infection and bad breath.
SMILE-FRIENDLY RECIPES
BRAIN BREAK!
RASPBERRY AND FIG OAT BARS
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1/4 cup cornstarch • 1 tsp baking powder • 1 cup and 1 tbsp rolled oats, divided • 2 sticks chilled unsalted butter, diced • 2/3 cup caster sugar
(superfine granulated)
• 2 eggs, beaten • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup raspberry jam • 1 1/3 cups raspberries • 3 figs, quartered • 1 tbsp turbinado or brown sugar
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease and line an 8x12-inch pan with parchment paper. 2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and 1 cup oats. Using your fingertips, rub in butter until crumbly. Stir in caster sugar, then add egg and vanilla. Stir until clumpy. 3. In the pan, smooth three-quarters of the mixture evenly. Spread jam over the top, then add fruit. Mix leftover oat mixture with turbinado sugar and remaining oats, then sprinkle over the fruit. 4. Bake for 40–45 minutes until golden. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Inspired by Delicious.com.au
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Senior Health Series: Bone Density PAGE 1
Walking Just Got Easier! PAGE 2
Bad Breath Be Gone — Naturally! Raspberry and Fig Oat Bars PAGE 3
Travel Like a Pro With TSA PreCheck PAGE 4
REDUCE PRE-FLIGHT WAIT WITH TSA PRECHECK DON’T REMOVE YOUR SHOES
When you arrive at the airport, you likely feel resigned to the hassle of waiting in a long security line and taking off your shoes. But did you know there’s an elite flight club full of people who don’t need to go through that routine? They have that privilege because TSA PreCheck has confirmed they aren’t a security threat. Best of all, the program is inexpensive and easy to join.
PreCheck passengers have a designated security line where, in March 2021, TSA reported the average wait was only 5 minutes.
The vast majority of airlines and airports operating in the U.S. accept TSA PreCheck, and you can apply with an online application. You must finish registration and submit
fingerprints at an in-person enrollment center, but most appointments take about 10 minutes. Five years of enrollment costs $78. At that price, even those who only book one round-trip flight a year might decide to avoid the typical security hassle. Further, many credit cards will reimburse the cost.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) began the TSA PreCheck program in 2013 to improve frequent flyers’ experience. TSA performs an enhanced security screening on applicants and issues those who pass muster a Known Traveler Number (KTN) that entitles them to fewer security checks at the airport.
TSA PreCheck isn’t the only method on the market. Nexus is another domestic security program, and
A TSA PreCheck registration, however, won’t let you waltz straight from the parking lot to your plane. Members must still walk through a metal detector and allow the TSA to X-ray carry-on items. But people with TSA PreCheck can bypass the full body scan or pat down. They also keep their shoes and belts on while leaving laptops and appropriately sized liquids in their carry-on bags. Finally,
Global Entry allows expedited processing through customs and immigration when returning to the U.S. on international flights. Which service best meets your needs depends on your travel habits. But if you fly regularly, these programs are almost certainly worth your time and money. Don’t get left behind — consider enrolling before your next trip!
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