February 2012: Tips, eNews, and More!

February is Heart Month!

Can taking care of your smile help to protect your heart?
While we know that oral health is related to overall health, a study in the Journal of Periodontology suggests that oral health might be more closely related to the health of your heart than you may think. Links have been found between periodontal disease and Stroke as well as Heart Diseases. Over simplified, the bacteria found in the mouths of patients with Periodontal disease may enter the bloodstream through the inflamed gum tissues. This bacterium then travels though the body, contributing to clot formations, swelling of the arteries and other factors that lead to heart complications.

To protect your smile as well as your heart we encourage you and your loved ones to practice good oral hygiene and maintain scheduled visits to our office to monitor and care for your healthy smile!

Also related to your heart, February hosts Valentine's Day (February 14) and Family Day (February 20), two holidays focused on spending time with loved ones.

Until next month, stay warm and keep smiling,

Dr. Tsang and Team

Dental Tip: Tooth Brush Care

It's recommended that you change your tooth brush at least every four months. This ensures that the bristles are in good condition for cleaning your teeth. We recommend a soft bristle brush used after every meal with a fluoride toothpaste. Your toothbrush should be stored upright after use and never shared. Also try to avoid letting your toothbrush touch your spouses if you share a holder. After each use, rinse your brush under cold water, give it a good shake and let it air dry.

Don't cover your 'home use' toothbrush as it may create a place for bacteria to flourish. If you use a travel toothbrush, replace it after your trip. It's also a good idea to replace your brush after a cold or illness.

If you're interested, ask us about electric toothbrushes on your next visit, as studies have shown that users tend to brush their teeth longer, it could be worth the minor investment.

Hot Apple-Cinnamon Pie..."A LA MODE"!

There's nothing like warming up with some Hot Apple Pie!

With the deep freeze outside, choosing the right 'warming foods' during these winter months is key for nourishing you body and soul.

The body naturally craves, starchy, heavy and sweet foods during the winter season. Instead of reaching for processed 'foods' that leave you feeling lethargic, try making your own creations that will satisfy your craving as well as offer nutritional value.

Since apples are widely available during the winter months and there is thing better than a little cinnamon and nutmeg to warm you up, may we suggest a HOT APPLE PIE! To help add some nutrition to the recipe you may notice some ingredients that you may not have in your pantry. All of these ingredients are available in the organic section of larger grocery stores or your local specialty grocer.

Click here for the recipe.

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