Friday, December 31, 2010

Happy New Year 2011!

This year, I resolve to...

Fill in the blank! Leave us a comment and tell us what your 2011 resolution is!!!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Say What? "Happy New Year!" (in 22 different languages)

Enjoy!


Arabic: Kul 'aam u antum salimoun
Brazilian: Boas Festas e Feliz Ano Novo means "Good Parties and Happy New Year"
Chinese: Chu Shen Tan
Czechoslavakia: Scastny Novy Rok
Dutch: Gullukkig Niuw Jaar
Finnish: Onnellista Uutta Vuotta
French: Bonne Annee
German: Prosit Neujahr
Greek: Eftecheezmaenos o Kaenooryos hronos
Hebrew: L'Shannah Tovah Tikatevu
Hindi: Niya Saa Moobaarak
Irish (Gaelic): Bliain nua fe mhaise dhuit
Italian: Buon Capodanno
Khmer: Sua Sdei tfnam tmei
Laotian: Sabai dee pee mai
Polish: Szczesliwego Nowego Roku
Portuguese: Feliz Ano Novo
Russian: S Novim Godom
Serbo-Croatian: Scecna nova godina
Spanish: Feliz Ano Neuvo or Prospero Ano Nuevo
Turkish: Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun
Vietnamese: Cung-Chuc Tan-Xuan

Thursday, December 30, 2010

New Year's Traditions!

New Year traditions in the United States:

  1. The most famous tradition in the United States is the dropping of the New Year Ball in Time Square, NY! This tradition started in 1907. The original ball was made of iron and wood; the current ball is made of Waterford crystal. This weighs approximately 1,070 pounds, and is 6 foot in diameter!
  2. A Southern New Years dish is black-eyed peas and ham hock. An old saying goes, "Eat peas on New Year's day to have plenty of everything the rest of the year."
  3. Another tradition is the Rose Bowl, in California! The Rose Bowl parade is made up of many floats that precedes the football game. The first parade was held in 1886.

If you would like to read about other countries New Years traditions take a look at http://www.factmonster.com/spot/newyearcelebrations.html

Have a Safe and a Happy New Year!

Tuesday, December 21, 2010

Holiday Desserts!

It's that time of year for all those delicious desserts:) Here are a few recipes!

Sugar Cookies:
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls, and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden. Let stand on cookie sheet two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks


*Now it's time to decorate*

Peanut Butter cookies:
1/2 cup shortening
1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon


Cream together the shortening, peanut butter and sugars. Beat in egg. Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt; gradually stir into the peanut butter mixture. Cover and refrigerate dough for at least one hour.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Make small balls of dough. Flatten with fork dipped in flour to form cross-wise pattern.
Bake for 10-12 minutes in the preheated oven, or until just set. Remove from baking sheets to cool on wire racks.


What is your favorite Holiday Dessert?

Friday, December 17, 2010

Bodyflight Mamba Take Gold

Check out this video. I was amazed on how awesome these guys freefly! I didn't even know teams competed doing this.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3WiYAUkUQ4

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Oral Cancer- The Forgotton Killer?

There will be approximately 30,000 new cases of oral and pharyngeal cancer diagnosed in the United States this year. Out of these cases as many as 8,000 people will die from the disease. This works out to be about 22 deaths a day, each and every day, from oral cancer in the United States. On top of this staggering statistic, the 5 year survival rate is only 50%. Although most cancerous survival rates are increasing in the United States, the rate of survival from oral cancer has not improved in decades. In fact the death rate from oral cancer is...

Get the full article HERE!

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Dental Bonding: What is It? What Problems Does it Fix?

Dental bonding is a conservative and very effective way to enhance your smile with an easy treatment that requires little, if any, advanced preparation and usually no enamel reduction Dental bonding uses a composite resin filling that reduces or eliminates natural flaws in your teeth.



There are two types of bonding:



Minor Corrections - For correcting small fillings and fillings in front teeth, bonding is a good solution that can generally be completed in one dental visit. Color matching to your natural tooth provides a nice result and the bonding adds strength to a weakened tooth.



Major Corrections -For greater durability and strength, such as needed by a large filling, tooth colored fillings can be created at the dental lab. First, a mold is made of your teeth and you’ll receive a temporary filling. The dental laboratory creates a very durable, custom-fitted filling made of porcelain, then bonded to your tooth on your second visit.



Read more HERE!

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Thursday, December 9, 2010

So my teeth are really connected to the rest of my body!!

Studies for the last few years have shown a definite connection between periodontal ("gum") disease, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Diseases of the oral cavity, such as periodontal disease and its part in the overall general health of the individual have been reported in the literature for many years including the 2000 Surgeon General's Report on "Oral Health in America."

To summarize, science and research is now pointing to a direct relationship of periodontal disease to heart disease and stroke. With an estimated periodontal disease rate of 33% of the people over the age of 50 and the large numbers of people that die each year from stroke and cardiovascular disease, these findings could have a profound outcome on the treatment of stroke and cardiovascular disease. As science has now shown, in case there was ever any question about it, yes, your teeth are connected to the rest of your body.

Read more on this here.

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Gingerbread Cookies!

Ingredients
6 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup shortening, melted and cooled slightly
1 cup molasses
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup water
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
  1. Sift together the flour, baking powder, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon; set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the shortening, molasses, brown sugar, water, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, until they are completely absorbed. Divide dough into 3 pieces, pat down to 1 1/2 inch thickness, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
  3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters. Place cookies 1 inch apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
  4. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in the preheated oven. When the cookies are done, they will look dry, but still be soft to the touch. Remove from the baking sheet to cool on wire racks. When cool, the cookies can be frosted with the icing of your choice

18 Days until Christmas!

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Periodontal Disease Part 3 of 3: Treatment and Prevention

In last weeks blog, part 2 of the blog series, we discussed possible health problems and complications associated with periodontal disease including its association with heart disease, diabetes, pregnancy, and we also discovered that it can also be hereditary.

This week as we conclude this topic, we will discuss the prevention, treatment, and possible cures for all forms of periodontal disease.

First things first.. Is there a cure? Well, yes and no.. There is no magic pill or shot or mouthwash that's going to magically take it all away and that's it, no more gum disease. It takes work. Typically you want to make a dentist appointment right at the onset of symptoms. The earlier it is caught, the less invasive it is to treat and maintain. Of course, prevention is key here and it is as simple as brushing your teeth at least twice a day, flossing once a day, getting regular check ups, and by not smoking. Of course, for some people it won't be that easy, as this disease can be genetic, which makes the importance of regular dental maintenance even more important.

Treating gum disease can be tricky and quite pricey. For mild cases of gum disease, periodontal scaling and root planning may be used to scrape away tartar and build up, and then antibiotic irrigation is usually used. For more sever cases, antibiotics may be prescribed (these come in various forms), and sometimes surgery is required. Surgery might entail temoroary removal of sections of the gums to clean out infection, bone grafting, and even tooth restoring/replacement surgeries such as crown lengthening or dental implants for those who have already suffered tooth loss.

As you can see now, Periodontal Disease is no joke and it certainly is not something to ignore. Remind yourself that a healthy body starts with a healthy mouth! And go get a check up because most people who have it, don't even know it!

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Secrets of the perfect set of teeth:

ACCORDING to an old wives’ tale women should expect to lose a tooth with each child - and not so long ago that belief was well rooted in reality. But today, with careful management, Dr Jacinta Yeo of the British Dental Association says most of us should be able to avoid losing our teeth. So what steps can you take to ensure that you keep your teeth in top condition? Here, ANGELA BROOKS presents the essential cradle to grave guide.

Ages 0 To 10
STUDIES have shown that if we have tooth decay as babies, then we are more likely to get decay in our permanent teeth.

Apart from their food-processing function, bay teeth are important as space maintainers so that permanent teeth have a space to slot into. If these teeth are lost early through decay, the space may not be saved, so permanent teeth can drift - a problem more likely to lead to a need for braces later.

Dental hygiene should begin with newborns. Bacteria should be removed by wrapping a piece of gauze around your finger and gently wiping the baby’s gum pads.

Baby toothbrushes with soft heads should be introduced as soon as teeth come through, along with specially formulated children’s toothpaste. These contain the optimal dose fluoride for youngsters.

In order to break down sugars, the ph in our mouth changes from neutral to acidic - and it is this acidic saliva which attacks teeth. As a result, a baby’s sugar intake should be monitored, bearing in mind that even health foods, such as milk and fruit, contain sugars.

Nursing Bottle Syndrome - a condition which causes rampant decay in a baby’s teeth - can occur from six months, and constant sweetened drinks are often blamed.

Studies have shown that 50 pc of five and six-year-olds in the UK have erosion of their front milk teeth - a condition causing pain and sensitivity. At around the age of six, the first molar teeth start to appear. These can be sealed with a plastic coating, known as fissure sealant, to prevent decay.

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Read more by going here..

Or copy and paste link in your browser.

http://www.savondentalplan.com/November_December2007_Newsletter.php#7

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Tooth-a-pedia

Is your dentist always throwing words at you that you don't understand? Words like Apicoectomy, Metastasis or Bruxism. Well if this happens simply the Savon Dental Plan Tooth-a-pedia.

Here you can look up words and get both a clinical and a simple to understand definitions. Never again be confused by big dental words when you have a Tooth-a-pedia at your fingertips.

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

The Tradition of the Candy Cane

Of all the beatuiful traditions of christmas, few are as ancient in meaning and rich in symbolism as the tradition of the candy cane!

Since the tradition of the Christmas tree began, Christmas trees were customarily decorated with symbols of newborn Christ. Candies represented the light of the world; the star recalled the first Christmas night; and the Shepard's crook symbolized the humble Shepard's in their fields near Bethlehem, who were the first to receive the news,.

Christmas tree decorations on Europe were primarily made of food- primarily cookies and candies. This tradition symbolically expresses thanks for "our daily bread" as well as providing a Christmas treat for children. Thus, the Shepard's crook became the candy cane.

As time went on, many ornaments took on more permanent nature, but the candy cane retains the original meaning and use as a Christmas tree ornament.
Candy canes on the Christmas tree symbolize the Shepard's in the fields on that first Christmas night!Most of all, they are inexpensive and a delightful Christmas treat for the Family!

Happy Holidays!

Monday, November 29, 2010

A Practical Christmas Gift Idea

We've all been given gifts at Christmas that we just can't really use, although we appreciate the thought. Why not give the gift of a good dental plan this year! Everyone can use the benefit of discounted dental treatment, whether it's a student, a family or an elderly family member on a fixed income, Savon Dental Plan offers terrific savings on dentistry for a low annual fee. It's tough to be caught without dental coverage when a toothache happens! So don't wait till you have a toothache! Get Savon Dental Plan now and start saving!
Click here for more information. Check for online specials!

Keep Smiling!

Friday, November 26, 2010

Periodontal Disease Part 2 of 3: Why It SHOULD NOT Be Ignored!

Last week we discussed periodontal disease. We talked about the causes, symptoms and types and we discovered that virtually anyone could be at risk. We also dabbled in the possible consequences of failing to treat gum disease, including the importance of regular maintenance since 75% of the population has gum disease and doesn't even know it. This week we are going to take a closer look at the moderate to severe health risks of untreated gum disease. The connection your mouth has to the rest of your body might surprise you.

Tooth Loss is the most common risk associated with gum disease. Although mild cases rarely result in the loss of teeth, severe or advanced cases are at a high risk. When left untreated, gum disease will grow usually from gingivitis, then advance in to periodontitis which has many different forms ranging from mild to sever, to rare. In sever cases, gums become inflamed and begin to pull apart from your teeth, forming spaces, or "pockets" to grow, allowing infection to grow as well. As your body (immune system) fights off the infection, bacteria and plaque continue to destroy the bone and tissue that hold the tooth in place, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.

Heart Disease and Periodontal Disease have recently been medically linked together. All though the study is still in investigative status, recent reports have shown that people who have severe periodontal disease are at a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. Keep an eye out as we will be keeping you up to date on this subject and more information becomes available.

Diabetes is a risk factor for periodontal disease as is periodontal disease a risk for diabetes patients. It is proven that people with diabetes are at a higher risk of gum disease because diabetes causes changes in blood vessels and high levels of inflammatory chemicals that increase the risk of gum disease. And on the reverse, periodontal disease can worsen diabetes and make controlling blood sugar difficult.

Respiratory Diseases can also be caused by bacteria from periodontal disease being inhaled in to the airways and in to the throat and lungs. This bacteria can cause respiratory problems and also worsen existing problems such as emphysema.

Pregnancy can be effected if the mother has severe periodontal disease. Recent studies have shown that bacteria from gum disease may trigger the same factors in the immune system that could cause the baby to be premature and have a low birth weight. The worse the infection, the worse the risk is to the baby.

Many of these health conditions can be prevented, managed or easily controlled with regular visits to your dentists and general physician. Join me again next week for the conclusion (part 3) of this blog series as we will be discussing prevention, treatment, and cures for gum disease.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Don't pack on the holiday pounds!

The holidays are right around the corner and you know what that means... LOT’S OF FOOD! And we wonder why the holiday season is the HARDEST time of year to eat right? Follow these simple tips....

  1. Avoid the munchie table: If you are feel like munching try the veggie try, this is healthier than those chocolates!
  2. Leave the eggnog and alcohol beverages alone: Once you start drinking, you start munching!
  3. Go for smaller portions: Yes this may be hard, due to all the YUMMY food! but eating smaller portions and taking the time to chew actually fills you up, making you eat less!
  4. Get rid of the temptation: Have friends and family take the left overs!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

http://www.savondentalplan.com/November2008_Newsletter.php#4

Monday, November 22, 2010

Thanksgiving Thoughts


Remember those who are less fortunate than you....

Remember elderly relatives and family friends who may be alone for the holiday...

Remember that goodwill is a building block for teaching values to your children....

Be grateful for all you have and for the blessings in your life....

Be careful, and have a safe and happy Thanksgiving Holiday!
And remember, a smile is almost always returned by another smile!

Keep smiling!

Friday, November 19, 2010

Periodontal Disease Part 1 of 3: You Might Be At Risk!

If your hands bled when you scrubbed them chances are you'd be worried, yet many people believe its normal for your teeth to bleed when you brush or floss. The truth is, these could be symptoms of a very serious disease: Periodontal Disease.

Periodontal disease, also known as "gum disease," currently affects an estimated 85% of the population. There are different forms of the disease. Gingivitis, the mildest form of gum disease, is caused by bacteria from tartar and plaque and leads to swelling, redness, and bleeding of the gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can advance in to "periodontitis." Periodontitis is a more severe form of gum disease and can lead to "pockets" or areas where the gums separate from the tooth, infection, bone loss, as well as other serious health related problems (which we will discuss next week in part 2).

What's the scariest part of all this? Many people have this disease and don't even know it. So, are YOU at risk? Sadly, anyone can get the disease, but here is a list of things that increase your chances of getting periodontal disease:

-Do you smoke? It's proven that smoking is one of the most significant risk factors associated with the development of gum disease, not to mention smoking may also hinder a successful treatment.

-Do you have diabetes? People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing infections, including gum disease.

-On meds? Many prescription medications reduce the flow of saliva, your mouth's natural cleaning agent that wards off unwanted bacteria. Decreased saliva leaves the mouth vulnerable to infections such as gum disease. Also, certain medications cause overgrowth of gum tissue making it difficult to keep the gums clean.

-Do you suffer from an illness? Illnesses such as HIV/AIDS or any other illnesses which reduce immune system production make your body extremely vulnerable to infections, including your mouth, and also make recovery and treatment difficult.

-Does it run in your family? Yes, it can be linked to genetics. If your family has a history of gum disease, you might be more susceptible than others.

If this information isn't enough to send you straight to the dentist for a check up, join me next week for part 2 where we will discuss the possible consequences of ignoring the symptoms of periodontal disease, including the very serious health risks involved which may surprise you.

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Help Savon Adopt A Family For The Holidays

For the 3rd year in a row Savon will be adopting a family for the holidays.

We are asking every member of the plan to help us in this endeavor by sending us $1.00. Savon will match the total of the donations and the office personnel will do the holiday shopping.

Once the shopping is complete, an itemized list of how much was taken in and where it was spent will be available on the website. We hope to be able to start the shopping by November 25th with delivery of both food and presents made by December 8th.

The family that we will adopt will be chosen by The Salvation Army and the goods will be delivered to the family by them. Remember: $1.00 means very little to most of us but with the power of our membership, it can make a BIG difference in the life of a family.

Please send your $1.00 to Savon Dental Plan Charity at PO Box 6055, Glendale, AZ 85312 and let's work together to make a difference!!

Wednesday, November 17, 2010

Can Orthodontic Treatment Lead to Headaches?

If you are not prone to headaches already, the answer is usually no. In almost every other case, if there is a headache it is usually only for a day or two and usually right after an adjustment.

For some patients however, orthodontic treatment can cause unexpected problems that can lead to distortions because of excessive adjustment. This can cause undue strain on the temporomandibular joint which may lead to excessive strain and the eventual perception of generalized headaches and migraine pain.

The remedy for this is not a quick one. Attempts to correct it in one reconstructive treatment typically result in failure. T he best correction process for this problem is done over an extended time period. Adjustments are incremental, which allow the jaw structures to achieve healthier repositioning through a natural process.

Correcting a distortion of can be done through the use of different types of dental components ranging from new posterior crowns, gold onlays and porcelain onlays. For some patients, orthotic devices can be used.

In any case, if you are wearing braces and start getting headaches that last more than a day or two, you should consult your orthodontist right away.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

15 Myths and Facts About Cavities

  1. Sugar Is the Prime Cause of Cavities Myth and fact.
  2. Exposure to Acidic Foods Like Lemons Causes Tooth Decay Fact.
  3. Kids Are a Lot More Likely to Get Cavities Than Adults Myth.
  4. Aspirin Placed Next to a Tooth Will Help a Toothache Myth.
  5. All Fillings Eventually Need Replacing Myth.
  6. If You Have a Cavity, You'll Know It Myth.
  7. Once a Tooth Is Treated, the Decaying Stops Fact.
  8. Cavities Are More Likely Between Teeth Fact.
  9. Gaps in Teeth Encourage Cavities Fact.
  10. Chips and Cracks in Teeth Lead to Decay Fact
  11. Sensitivity in Teeth Means You Have Decay Myth.
  12. Cavities Are the Prime Reason for Root Canals Myth.
  13. Clenching and Grinding Leads to Cavities Myth and sometimes fact.
  14. You Don’t Need to Worry About Cavities in Baby Teeth Myth
  15. Brushing and Flossing Is the Best Way to Prevent Cavities Fact. “Absolutely!

Check the myths and facts here: http://hubpages.com/hub/15-Myths-and-Facts-About-Cavities to find out how cavities are caused, prevented, and treated

Monday, November 15, 2010

Diabetes and Your Oral Health

Since it is American Diabetes Month, I did some searching and found an article that relates to diabetes and gum disease. You might be astounded at the correlation between the two! Definitely a must-read for anyone out there with diabetes.

http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/colgatetotal/46799/

Keep smiling!

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Top Ten Reasons to remove your wisdom teeth

Here are reasons 3-1...


3. ~ Even wisdom teeth that seem to be problem free- (asymptomatic) remain a breeding ground for oral infection and inflammation. Research supports the concept that such inflammation may enter the bloodstream and contribute to the development and/or progression of a variety of diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease and stroke.


2. ~ Once it has been determined that a wisdom tooth will not successfully erupt into your mouth and be maintained in a healthy state, early removal of wisdom teeth is associated with faster and easier recovery.


1. ~ The number one reason for removing you wisdom teeth is "Peace of Mind"

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Top Ten Reasons to remove your wisdom teeth

Here are reasons 6-4!

6. With age, the chance for complications related to the removal of wisdom teeth increases.

5. Gum disease and inflammation associated with wisdom teeth may lead to receding gum tissues, deterioration of the jawbone and tooth loss.

4. Wisdom teeth may contribute to crowding of nearby teeth.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Top Ten Reasons to remove your wisdom teeth

Here are reasons 10-7!

10.) Because there is limited space for wisdom teeth to erupt and because surrounding gums are difficult to keep clean, infection and inflammation are common even when there are no apparent symptoms. Research shows that once inflammation takes hold, it is an impossible to eliminate and may spread to other teeth.

9.) Research suggests that oral inflammation associates with wisdom teeth may contribute to preterm or low birth weight infants.

8.) Even when wisdom teeth erupt through the gum tissues, they rarely provide any meaningful function and are always difficult to keep clean.

7.) In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth develop associated cysts and/or tumors. Removal of such lesions may require extensive procedures to repair and restore jaw functions and appearance.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Give The Gift Of An Affordable Smile This Year!

Its that time of year again!!! Thanksgiving will come and go in a flash and before you know it, Christmas will be here!

Many people around the country are still without dental benefits and YOU can help!! Savon Dental Plan gift certificates are now available for purchase! What better gift can you give someone than one they can use all year long??!! And better yet, if you're already a member and you buy a gift certificate, you get 2 free months added to your own plan!

Check out the details HERE and keep your family smiling this holiday season!

Thursday, November 4, 2010

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Scuba Diving or Snorkeling With Braces On Your Teeth

The question has come up concerning Scuba Diving or Snorkeling with braces. Well according to bracesreview don't cancel your plans just because you have braces

There is plenty of room for the regulator or snorkel to fit on the inside of your teeth. They suggest getting comfortable with the equipment in your mouth long before you jump in the water. If you are wearing rubber bands in your braces from jaw to jaw, it is recommended that you take them out for the dive because if you clear your ears and adjust to the pressure by wiggling your jaw the rubber bands may snap and be lodge somewhere in your mouth or possibly swallowing.

Divers with braces say it was very easy and they barely noticed they had the braces on. A good thing to do is to keep practicing before you descend. If you have access to a pool, practice with a snorkel or bring just your regulator in the pool with you. This will prepare you for the dive.

If you are still a bit wary, you may want to stick to the snorkeling or a shallow dive until you get more comfortable.

You may want to rinse your mouth with freshwater after a long contact with saltwater. It is not necessary, but it definitely won’t hurt and you can do it while drinking your water post dive.

Good luck and enjoy scuba or snorkel while wearing braces.

Tuesday, November 2, 2010

Braces

Do you need braces? Have you ever took a look at the different types of braces are? Well if you haven't here are some different types to check out!
  • Ceramic braces (tooth colored)- Very Strong and usually do not stain! The brackets "blend in" with the teeth, making it less noticeable to people! These are most likely to stain if you smoke, drink coffee... Here are some pros and cons: Pros- You may feel more comfortable, blend in with the tooth so it does not show up in pictures! Cons- More expensive than traditional braces, Treatment may take longer.
  • Invisalign Braces- This is great for people with minor problems (slightly crooked teeth) This is made with very strong plastic and made just for you. Pros- No one can tell you are wearing braces, easier to clean. Cons- Cost a little more than traditional braces, treatment can take longer.
  • Metal Braces(traditional)- Very strong and can withstand most treatment. At first maybe very sensitive but that will subside after a few days. Pros- The least expensive, tend to take the least amount of time for treatment. Cons- More noticeable than the others, not comfortable.

Monday, November 1, 2010

The Best Toothpastes on the Market Today

If you don't regularly read Yahoo news, you may have missed this article on the best toothpastes. Use the link below just in case it's gone in a few days. Interesting! (Unfortunately, the toothpaste that I've used for 30 years didn't make the list.) :( But there are some good ones listed there.

http://shopping.yahoo.com/articles/yshoppingarticles/449/the-best-toothpastes/



Enjoy!

Keep smiling!

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Craving Healthier Food: Stept #1 For A Successful Diet

If you're anything like me then you're probably 100% guilty of searching the net in hopes to find that one special diet-or pill-or drink-or supplement that will do magic tricks and get you in shape with the least amount of effort required. Too bad that's a never ending search. I have tried every diet known to man, and have failed each time. And after much research, I have found that the problem is that I simply wasn't prepared to diet. This is by no means simple of course, preparing to diet. I just found that, much like everything else in life, there is an order to things. You can't go from a lifetime of eating unhealthy to an instant diet over night and expect to succeed. From what I've found, the best place to start is deciding to change your eating habits, and then focusing on controlling your cravings. Cravings are usually what I cave in on every time. I'll do good for a few days, maybe even a week, but then I'll catch the smell of oil drenched french fries as I pass Wendy's and end up flipping a U-Turn faster than you can blink. If I could just train myself on how to crave food that is better for me, this whole "diet" thing would be a whole lot easier..

Which brings me to an article I found on the subject.. 5 Steps For Craving Healthier Food (well, what do you know, there's even an instruction manual to this!! LOL). I found it useful, hopefully you do too:

How To Crave Healthier Food

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Useless Knowledge

Here are some useless facts:
  • A cockroach can live several weeks with its head cut off.
  • A cow produces 200 times more gas a day than a person.
  • A shark is the only fish that can blink with both eyes.
  • A sneeze travels out your mouth at over 100 m.p.h.
  • A toothpick is the object most often choked on by Americans!
  • Almost a quarter of the land area of Los Angeles is taken up by automobiles
  • The average person's left hand does 56% of the typing.
  • You'll eat about 35,000 cookies in a lifetime

If you want to look at more useless facts click here: http://www.tealdragon.net/humor/facts/facts.htm

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

Dental Conventions!

As another year is coming to an end, Savon Dental Plan is coming to an end with our Dental Convention circuit for the year. Our final convention for 2010 that we will be attending is the San Diego Convention! This takes place November 12-13 at the Marina Village Convention Center!
Next Year "2011" we will begin the convention circuit all over again! As of right now we are planning on going to two conventions! We are planning to do the Texas meeting (San Antonio) May 5-7. Michigan Annual Session (Grand Rapids) April 13-16
These conventions run all year long and are all over the United States!

Friday, October 22, 2010

The History of Halloween Traditions

Halloween is a fun time of year. Beautiful autumn leaves are falling, the air is crisp with the warm scents of cinnamon and spice, and the silvery hints of winter yet to come are hanging in the atmosphere. It's a time for cider and candied apples, parties and ghost stories, costumes and of course, carving pumpkins. But while you're rallying up your kids, making last minute adjustments to princess and super hero costumes, did you ever wonder how this holiday came to be? It's an interesting story, one to, perhaps, share with your children after an exhausting night of trick-or-treating. Enjoy.

"Halloween" is actually an ancient Celtic holiday known as "Samhain" meaning "summer's end," a night when the veil between the dead and the living is thinnest. Being the most magical night of the year, ancient Celts, witches, and other nature based religions used this night to honor their loved ones who have passed. It is also a night thought to allow passage for evil spirits and demons to walk with the living and wreak havoc on the villages. Festivals began on the night of October 31st and continued on to the next day, November 1st (also known as "Hallowmas") and ended on November 2nd, (also known as "All Souls Day).

During these festivities, village people would prepare by lighting bonfires to attract insects, which would in turn attract bats, which were thought to frighten evil spirits. Children and adults would dress in costumes, mimicking the evil spirits in an effort to blend in, appease, or chase off the unwanted intruders. They would carve faces in pumpkins, squash and gourds as a way of welcoming their deceased loved ones in to their home, as well as to ward of any lingering evil spirits who may be with them.

November 1st is when the common mid evil practice of "souling" would begin. This activity was not practiced by every religion but was often done by the poor who would go door to door, begging for food and goods in return for prayers for the dead to be used the next day on "All Souls Day." This has evolved in to what we now know as "trick-or-treating."

Halloween has evolved in general over thousands of years. There are many different cultures who celebrate the holiday in different ways, some more sacred than others. But the American tradition of Halloween is rich with cultural traditions from all over the world, making for one of my most personal favorite holidays of the year.

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Thursday, October 21, 2010

A Few Tips for Better Dental Health in Dogs

The Breath Test
Sniff your dog’s breath. If it smells bad and is accompanied by a loss of appetite, vomiting or excessive urinating, might be a good idea to take your dog to the vet.

Check Under Lips
Check your dog’s gums often looking to make sure they are pink, not white or red. His teeth should be clean, without any brownish tartar.

Signs of Oral Disease
Bad breath
Excessive drooling
Inflamed gums
Tumors in the gums
Cysts under the tongue
Loose teeth

Chew Toys
They not only satisfy your dog’s desire to chomp, they also help make his teeth strong. They can help massage his gums and keep soft tartar off his teeth.

To read more, go here..

Monday, October 18, 2010

What is malocclusion?

Malocclusion is also known as a bad bite. It is a condition in which a persons teeth are out of alignment, crooked or crowded.

There are generally two types of malocclusion.

Dental malocclusion: This is when the teeth are not lined up properly; even the jaw may be aligned. Tooth crowding causes this type of occlusion.

Skeletal malocclusion: A skeletal malocclusion occurs when the upper and lower jaws don't line up correctly. This type of malocclusion can be classed as an overbite or an underbite.

Normally malocclusion starts to appear between the ages of six and twelve when permanent teeth are coming in. A bad bite can also be the result of many things such as:

Thumbsucking
Tongue thrusting (pushing your tongue against your teeth)
Fingernail biting
Mouth breathing: Breathing primarily through your mouth instead of your nose.

Thursday, October 14, 2010

5 Little Pumpkins

Here is a cute Halloween poem for your children..

5 little pumpkins sitting on a gate;
The first one said, "Oh my its getting late"
The second one said "There are witches in the air"
The third one says "But i don't care"
The fourth one said "I'm ready for some fun"
The fifth on says "Lets run lets run"
Whoosh went the wind, and out went the lights.
And the 5 little pumpkins rolled out of sight

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

What's an impacted tooth?

An impacted tooth is a tooth that gets blocked as it is pushing through the gum into your mouth. A common tooth to get impacted is the wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth, also known as the third molars usually begin to come in between the ages of 17 and 21. Most cases they may become impacted due to the lack of room in your mouth. They may come in sideways or be tilted in your jaw.

You can have an impacted tooth and not even know, as some are painless. When an impacted wisdom tooth tries to come in it can become infected and swollen. Sometimes you even feel pain in nearby teeth, or in the ear on that side of your face.

If untreated an impacted tooth can lead to an infection called pericoronitis. This infection can spread to the throat or into the neck. Impacted teeth also can get cavities, lead to tooth movement, decay or gum disease. It also can change the way your teeth come together.

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

The Greatest Marketing Gimmicks on TV Today

I LOVE commercials. Especially the zany, outrageous, utterly stupid ones, not to mention the practical ones that stick in your head long after you turn the TV off! I've come up with a list of my personal favorites.

#1. GEICO. Top Spot, in my opinion. Hands down. The Little Piggy riding in the car crying weee, wee, wee! Awesome. My daughter actually has that uploaded as a ringtone on her phone!
#2. SHERWIN WILLIAMS. Their use of computer graphics and color to promote their brand of paint is pure genius. And beautiful to watch.
#3. ALLSTATE. Their mayhem commercials are wonderfully true to life...especially the Pink SUV with Mayhem himself, in disguise as a teenage girl talking on a cell phone....oh yeah, we can relate.
#4. TOYOTA. Ok, is there really a guy out there who would stand there between two Camry's and say "eenie meenie miney moe" , or have his wife drop him off at the dealership to play inside the showroom vehicles? "Going up"....too funny. But effective. I'm still thinking of it!
#5. JACK IN THE BOX. Their latest "Hazing the Intern" commercial is great. What will they come up with next? No wonder they win awards for their commercials.

Feel free to comment and fill us in on your own personal favorites!
And as always, keep smiling!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Billboards top 10 songs right now..

1. Just the way you are ~ Bruno Mars
2. Teenage Dream ~ Katy Perry
3. Love the Way You Lie ~ Eminem featuring Rihanna
4. DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love ~ Usher featuring Pitbull
5. Dynamite ~ Taio Cruz
6. Like A G6 ~ Far*East Movement Featuring Cataracs & Dev
7. Just A Dream ~ Nelly
8. Only Girl (In The World) ~ Rihanna
9. I Like It ~ Enrique Iglesias Featuring Pitbull
10. Club Can’t Handle Me ~ Flo Rida Featuring David Guetta

Want to see more, go here!

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Halloween Fun Facts!

Here are some fun Halloween facts that you might find interesting!!
  1. Traditional Halloween colors are orange and black, orange for the color of fall, and black for death...
  2. Trick or Treating originated in Ireland...
  3. Next to Christmas, Halloween is the most celebrated holiday...
  4. One cup of raisins contain more sugar than one cup of candy...
  5. Largest pumpkin ever grown weighs 1,385 pounds...

Here are some more fun facts about Halloween http://socyberty.com/holidays/how-well-do-you-know-your-halloween-facts/

Please remember when you are out celebrating Halloween, be safe, smart and have fun.... BOO!!!!!!!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Stay Connected With Savon Dental Plan!

At Savon, our members aren't just members, they're family. And to us, family always comes first. The most important thing about being a family is communication and staying connected. And that's just what we want to do with you! Check out these great ways to keep in touch with us. You never know what hidden surprises you might find!

Savon Dental Plan's Official Website - This is THE tool for every member and prospective member where you can view our dentists list, our fee schedules, compare us to different plans and insurance, sign up, and even renew your plan! Here we also provide important information about the industry, tips on figuring out what is right for you, a monthly newsletter keeping you up to date on current events within the company, and much, much more!

Facebook With Us! - Like us on facebook! It's not uncommon to find special contests with VALUABLE prizes, as well as links to our daily blog, fun polls, and things to just make you smile (which is our favorite thing to do)!

Follow Us On Twitter! - Another great source to keep you up to date with Savon! Be the FIRST to get the latest news by following us today!

Savon On Merchant Circle - Got a business? Network with us! Are you a happy member and want to tell the world about your success with Savon?? Write us a review!

Savon On Kudzu - Another excellent source for business to business networking, as well as referrals! Link with us here or write us a review!

And one last thing...

If you're looking for the best of the best Arizona's businesses have to offer, check out Savon's Business Partner Guide!


Thank you for being a part of the Savon Family! Get connected and keep us close! :)

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Tongue Tattoos

Now if you have never heard of this before, tongue tattoos might come as quite a shock. Tattoos are a hot commodity these days, becoming more and more popular than they have ever been in the past. Tattoos are very popular and the new trend that is rapidly taking effect in the world of tattoos is known as tongue tattoos. Although many aren’t familiar with tongue tattoos yet, they are just now starting to take shape.
Like any other tattoo on the body, the tongue can be tattoo as a whole or in portion. The most popular design is the star or tribal work. Stars are commonly found near the tip of the tongue and tribal is typically reserved for the middle part of the tongue.
As far as the procedure goes, it’s very similar to getting a tattoo on any other part of your body. Those who have had tongue tattoos in the past say that they aren’t very painful. Unlike tattoos on the skin, the tongue is a giant muscle. A tattoo on the tongue is often described as a tickling sensation or the feeling of numbness in your mouth. When the tattoo artist does the tattoo, he will normally use a tool to hold the tongue out.
Here are a few pics of some.















Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Veneers to Cover Tetracycline Stains

Many, many years ago..........the baby boomers will remember this.......the antibiotic Tetracycline was widely used to treat a variety of ailments in children as well as adults. It is still used today for more specific diseases but more is known now about the effects of the drug on permanent teeth of children in their formative years. Tetracycline has been known to cause a staining of the teeth in children whose teeth are in the formative stages. It attacks the teeth from the inside, and the discoloration begins before the tooth is completely formed. The stain then becomes encased in the tooth. These stains can range from very light to a very dark brownish gray color. Until recent advances in dentistry became available, the procedures to mask the stains included bleaching, which was essentially ineffective because the tooth is discolored on the inside as well as the outside, or placing a porcelain crown, which involved grinding the actual tooth and fitting a crown over it to cover them. In many cases, the dark portion of the tooth would still show through the crown. The newest and most effective procedure in dentistry by far is the porcelain veneer. Here is an article including some before and after pictures of people with tetracycline stains who have opted for the veneers. They are a bit pricey, but worth the cost when you see how easy it is and the end result. Amazing!

Repost from January 2008

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

7 Random Facts about Tooth Whitening

I thoughts these were interesting facts!
  1. Pregnant and lactating mothers should not undergo teeth whiting
  2. People with gum disease and untreated cavities should not undergo teeth whitening
  3. Excessive and repeated tooth whitening produce irreparable damage to teeth
  4. Can have extreme tooth sensitivity, irritation and pain
  5. Home teeth whiting remedies damage teeth in the long run
  6. Tooth whitening toothpaste is just as effective as normal toothpaste
  7. newly bleached teeth get colored by food easily for a few weeks

Monday, September 27, 2010

Limit your snacks you eat a day, especially high sugar ones

Every time you eat, food gets in and around your teeth. When you eat food containing sugars or starches your teeth are exposed to these acids for 20 minutes or more. The acid attacks can break down the enamel surface of your teeth, leading to a cavity. If you must snack, brush your teeth or chew sugarless gum afterward.
Try and make sure you are eating a balanced diet also. Not getting enough minerals and vitamins can affect your oral health.

Friday, September 24, 2010

Savon isn't JUST a dental plan...

It is true that Savon Dental Plan is one of the most preferred dental plans in the nation. It is also true that Savon is dedicated to providing the best service and the best prices to both our members and dentists. But we didn't stop there...

At Savon, we believe that knowledge is power. Thousands of people are STILL paying way too much for dental coverage and getting little in return, and now days, it's easier than ever to be taken advantage of, simply because your options haven't been laid out for you. At Savon, we take this problem very seriously, so seriously that we even dedicated a portion of our website for all members and non to use as a tool in finding the right kind of dental coverage to match your needs and budget, whether it ends up being Savon or not. Check this out:

Unraveling the Mystery of Dental Plans, Dental Insurance, and Dental PPO'S -
Here, we have outlined and defined each type of dental coverage, detailing on how each works, pro's and con's of each, and how they may or may not work for you.

Dental Insurance And What You NEED To Know - This page gives you detailed information about dental insurance and some of the "hidden" downfalls you wouldn't be prepared for if you weren't made aware of them. These are the kinds of things that COST you money and time.

The Comparison Zone - Savon just made your search for dental coverage EASY! Here you can compare all the major insurance companies, dental plans, and ppo's against each other without having to search the entire internet! It's all right here for you in one place!

Whether you're already a member, looking to become a member, or know someone who is looking for dental coverage, read the educational information we provided and pass it on so you don't end up paying for it in the future.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

First Day of Fall

Yesterday was the first day of fall. Personally, it's my favorite season! I love the colors, the smell of the air, the start of a new school year and Halloween...For those of you that enjoy looking at fall foliage, I came across a website that has some beautiful pictures!

Click here for the link.

Hope you all have an enjoyable season!
Keep smiling!

What is the best selling Halloween candy?

You might think the best selling Halloween candy is some sort of chocolate right? Well as it turns out the number one best selling Halloween candy is the Candy Corn! Candy Corn can also be found all year long, such as Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
The second best selling Halloween Candy is the Snickers bar. Not only is this the best selling Halloween candy it is the best selling candy bar.

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Top FEARS of 2010

So we all have something or another we are afraid of. Below is a list of the top fears accordingly to MSN Health & Fitness;

  • Terrorism
  • Flying
  • Heights
  • Financial ruin
  • Public speaking
  • Spiders
  • Dogs
  • Confined spaces / open spaces
  • Thunder and lightning storms

What are your fears??

List found here..

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Thumbsucking

Why do children and babies suck there thumb? Thumb sucking is a natural way the toddler and baby comfort themselves.
Thumb sucking is very difficult thing to stop if you keep allowing this through toddler years. Some ways to stop thumb sucking is to put a non-pleasant tasting substance on the toddlers thumb, or try to distract him/her if you notice them sucking their thumb.
Children who suck their thumbs after the age of 3 are in risk of dental problems. Some dental problems associated with thumb sucking:
  • Reshape the jaw
  • Upper teeth will flare out
  • Bottom teeth will move inward
  • Poor tongue placement
  • Problems chewing

http://www.dentalgentlecare.com/thumbsucking.htm

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Herbal Remedies for dental care!

For years people have gone the all-natural route instead of pharmaceutical medicines. Today many people turn to herbal remedies for many reasons. A couple being it is cheaper then the alternatives and you are not getting the chemicals found in traditional medicines.

For those of you that drink green tea, did you know it is good for fighting dental cavities by getting rid of bacteria? Apples also help keep bacteria away too. To ease that toothache you may have you can use clove oil, vinegar and also you can place an ice bag on your face wherever the pain is. Those things will help ease your pain until you can get into the dentist. Most people push aside the little parsley that comes on your dinner plate, but if you have somewhere to be after dinner and don’t have time to brush your teeth or any gum on hand eat the parsley and it will do the trick.

To whiten your teeth rub the white inside of an orange rind against your teeth and rinse after a few minutes or you can make a paste using a few strawberries, let it sit for a few minutes then rise with a little baking soda.

Those are just a few examples on how you can use herbal remedies that are all natural and healthy for you.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Anaesthetist

Dwayne is recovering from surgery in St Peter's, Chertsey, UK, having had a local anaesthetic when a nurse asks him how he's feeling.' I'm O.K. but I didn't like the four-letter-word the doctor used in surgery.'
'What did he say?' asks the nurse.
'OOPS!'

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Give the gift that keeps on giving!

Do you know someone who is in need of dental work? Savon Dental Plan has gift certificates you can purchase for your family and friends. If you purchase one we will waive the processing fee, send full color gift certificate to you to give to recipient and you or the recipient can choose the date when to have the plan activated. As a thank you, if you are already a member of Savon Dental Plan we will extend your plan by two months!

Go here for more information.

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Be sure to Brush and Floss!

I found this poem on a website called tooter4kids.com. Really cute! The link is below.

When Grandpa starts to floss his tooth,
We set the bleachers up.
He takes his false teeth from his mouth
And drops them in a cup.
In the mirror we see him grin
As he looks upon the prize.
His one remaining tooth smiles back
As pride lights up his eyes.
He measures out a piece of floss,
About four feet or more.
And as he turns to face himself
It drags across the floor.
So carefully he lifts the hand
That holds the captured end.
Like chalk across the blackboard,
We hear his elbow bend.
With one end held against that tooth,
The other end is found.
Then grandpa—at a snail-like pace
Begins the wrap around.
When wrapped he does a little hop
And twirls a dainty spin
We see the tooth begin to shine
As he flosses it again.
So then we all stand up to cheer,
He shyly takes his bow.
And says, "I'm glad for your applause,
Please listen to me now,
"My tooth is an example
That yours might well be lost,
Unless you brush them everyday
And make sure they all are flossed."

—Grandpa Tucker
Copyright ©2000 by Bob Tucker

http://www.tooter4kids.com/DentalHealth/teeth_poetry.htm

Keep Smiling!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

10 Foods for a healthy, beautiful smile..

Can what we eat make a difference in our oral hygiene? I found this article that says there are 10 foods you could eat the help keep your teeth healthy along with brushing and flossing. You should check it out!! :)

Thursday, September 2, 2010

Student Plan

This is a for students only.
  • Ages 18-25
  • Must be student
  • Proof of schedule
  • No kids covered (if you have kids, The plan goes to a family plan for regular amount)
  • $49 for a single plus a $10 processing fee
  • $69 Double Plus a $10 processing fee

X-rays while pregnant?

At some point you have heard that you should not get x-rays done while you are pregnant because it can be harmful to your unborn child. I thought I would see what information I could find out about it and I came across this web-site that has four different articles all on x-rays and pregnancy. They all seem to be a little different but have some great information in them. I learned some things I didn’t know before.

Monday, August 30, 2010

Dental Financing Options

For many people, the cost of dental treatment is so high that they are forced to postphone the work or simply give up and let their teeth deteriorate. There are options available!
Below is a list of finance companies that will lend credit to help cover the cost of extensive dental treatment.

Care Credit offers financing for Medical, Dental and even Pet Care!
All Care Finance offers financing for Dental treatment.
My Medical Loan offers tailored financing for Medical and Dental treatment.

These are just a few ways to help make the cost of dentistry more affordable.
Keep smiling!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Dental Fun For Kids

This is just for fun.....it's a website sponsored by Colgate that has games and activities for kids to teach them about oral health for themselves and their pets! Pets can have dental problems too, so this is a fun way to get kids involved in the care of their pets. The earlier the better, and hopefully they'll carry on their own good oral hygiene habits and grow into responsible pet owners as well!Click here to play and have fun!

Repost from September 2009

Back to School Special

Time is almost up for the Back to School Special. Get it while you can!

Join before Aug. 31th and you will get 18 months for the price of 12. (*on basic plan only*)



Go here!

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Do I really need to floss?

For most of us, flossing is such a chore we tend to put off. For some people it is the last thing we think about doing on a daily basis. However, over time you will be doing more harm by not taking a few minutes out of the day to do a quick floss.I found this article that tells you the importance of flossing and what might happen to your teeth if you don't.It is something that can be done really anywhere anytime. Just make sure you try and floss once a day for long lasting healthy teeth!

Monday, August 16, 2010

Recipe For Homemade Toothpaste

For those of you who prefer Old Home-Style concoctions...and who would like to stay away from artificial and (in some cases) potentially unsafe ingredients that are added to commercially marketed products, here is a recipe I found while searching online for something homemade. Of all the recipes that I looked at, I liked this one best. Mix together: 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil, 3 tablespoons Baking Soda, 5 drops Peppermint Essential Oil, 5 drops Spearmint Essential Oil, a pinch of Stevia powder (as a sweetener). These are all completely natural ingredients and tasty too!

Here is a link to the web page where I found the recipe. It is an intersting blog site.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

How clean is your toothbrush?

Ever wonder how clean your toothbrush is? Well I have. So I did a little research on it. I have always thought it was gross to share your toothbrush and now more so after I read this article 'what's on your toothbrush'.The mouth contains untold numbers of viruses and bacteria, and sharing a toothbrush can pass on anything from the common cold to hepatitis B. So think twice before using someone else's toothbrush.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Only a couple weeks left to take advantage of Savon's Back-To-School Special!

Is your smile not as "HOT" as the weather this summer? Savon can help you AFFORD a bright smile to go with that summer tan! With plans as low as $109 for a single and only $189 for an entire family (PER YEAR that is...), 50% OFF your dental work AND this awesome summer special, what are you waiting for!!?? Join before August 31, 2010 and get 18 months for the price of 12! It's the perfect time to get those teeth cleanings in for school! Check out our special ONLINE and use promo code: SUM or call us at 800-809-3494 NOW! A gorgeous smile doesn't HAVE to cost a fortune!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Tooth Abscess

Ouch... Have you ever had an abscess tooth? This is very painful and is a dreaded circumstance in dentistry. Any one who is experiencing this should consult your dentist right away.
Abscessed teeth are generally chronic or acute. Chronic toothache is a low to medium grade throbbing pain around the tooth. A small bubble may form on the gum tissue filled with infection. Acute toothache is a rapid painful onset. sleep and daily functions can be interrupted burring this time. You can read on for more information at.... http://www.dental-health-index.com/toothabscess.html

Want a chance to win $250?!

Everyone who ‘likes’ us on Facebook is entered into a drawing to win $250 (that’s $0.25 for every fan) if we can get 1000 fans by Labor Day. I know that’s only a few weeks away but if you suggest it to your friends and they pass it on to theirs and so on, I’m sure we can make it happen! Visit our page here ~ http://bit.ly/aD73ns

Monday, August 9, 2010

Bottle rot: How to prevent it..

If you have ever had a baby you know how hard it can be to wing them from the bottle. Most pediatricians say at about one they should no longer be on the bottle and they should be using a sippy cup. A child's teeth are susceptible to decay if he’s always drinking a sugared drink from a bottle — formula, milk, or juice. You should also never but a baby in his crib with a bottle or sippy cup as the 'sugars' from what they are drinking just lay in their mouths as they sleep. That is what can form tooth decay or 'bottle rot'. You can read more about it here on the importance of getting your baby on a sippy cup and off the bottle.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

"When do I take my child to the dentist for the first time?"

As a parent I often wondered what age do I start taking my kids to get their teeth cleaned by a dentist? After some research on line I found most articles said about when they are two or three, when all 20 baby teeth have come in. After the first visit, children should see a dentist twice a year for cleanings and checkups. These visits can allow your dentist to detect flaws early, possibly preventing more serious problems in the future. Hope that helps some of you out there who might have wondered the same thing. :)

Friday, July 23, 2010

Today In History

1796 ~ Cleveland, Ohio, was founded by Gen. Moses Cleaveland.

1933 ~ Wiley Post became the first person to fly solo around the world.

1934 ~ John Dillinger was shot to death outside Chicago's Biograph Theater.

1937 ~ Franklin D. Roosevelt's "court packing" scheme was rejected by the U.S. Senate.

1975 ~ Congress restored Confederate general Robert E. Lee's U.S. citizenship.

1990 ~ Greg LeMond won his third Tour de France. A Minnesota native, Lemond was the first American to win the great French cycling race.

2003 ~ Saddam Hussein's sons, Uday and Ousay, were killed in a firefight.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Savon Dental Plan’s Back to School Special!

Join now, Save now!

It’s that time again when the kids will be going back to school soon. Take advantage of their back to school special by joining before Aug. 31th and you will get 18 months for the price of 12. (*on basic plan only*) Send the kids back to school with a clean and healthy mouth!


Go here!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Get Shades Whiter!

What is the Zoom Whiting all about?
Zoom Whiting is a bleaching process that lightens the discoloration of enamel.
What is the process for the procedure?
First you will Begin with short preparation to cover your gums and lips leaving only your teeth exposed. Next the assistant will apply a whiting gel all over your teeth, then will apply the light. Now is the time to sit back and relax!
How long is the procedure?
This procedure will last a total of 45 min. Three 15 min. sessions. Between each session the assistant will reapply the whiting gel.
Are there any side effects?
Some people may experience sensitivity. on rare occasions tingling may occur after the treatment. You can ask your dentist to prescribe a anti-sensitivity toothpaste before the treatment.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Ever Wonder How Braces Work?

This is the time of year when parents are gearing up for the cost of braces for their teens and pre-teens. Aside from the cost, many people really don't know what is involved in the process of braces and don't understand some of the dental terminology.
I found an article that addresses these types of questions.

Click here for an enlightening, if not graphic, article.

Keep Smiling!!!!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Flossing with braces...

I recently had braces on and as an adult I know how important it is to floss. Well if you ever have had braces you know it is not an easy task. I had a friend tell me about Glide Threader Floss from Crest. No more threading the floss through the little hook each time. This is a string of floss with a threader tip on it, which makes it easy going in between your brackets. If you have not used it before it is worth trying!

Monday, July 12, 2010

Anesthesia During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant or think you might be it is best to avoid any dental treatment that is not essential in your first trimester. Pregnant women can receive some local anesthetics but most dentist advise having dental work done before or after the pregnancy. You should also avoid nitrous oxide.

Read more about it here…

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Animal Dental Facts...

Bet you didn't know dogs have 42 teeth while cats only have 30.

The armadillo has 104 teeth, ouch!

The elephant grinds down its molars, which are about 7" square to grow new ones.

Read more fun facts here.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Happy 234th Birthday America


Independence Day, July 4, 2010 marks the 234th Birthday of the United States of America. As we celebrate with barbecues, family gatherings and the traditional firework displays, lets take time to remember our service men and women who can not be here on US soil for this beloved celebration. I personally have some friends currently serving overseas and more set to deploy soon. Their sacrifices should not go unnoticed. As we honor America, we also honor those who defend our country and our freedom. With out them, Independence would be only a thought. Thank you to all our troops and their families.
Have a safe and fun 4th of July!

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. This is the initial stage of gum disease, and the earliest to treat.
Gingivitis is due to a long term effects of plaque deposits. Plaque is a sticky material made up of bacteria, mucus, and food debris that develops on the exposed parts of the tooth.'
Ways to reduce Gingivitis is to have your teeth cleaned on a regular bases. Brush and floss everyday, along with using a mouth rinse.
If you start noticing any of these symptoms consult with your dentist....
  • bleeding of the gums
  • bright red or red-purple appearance to gums
  • mouth sores
  • swollen gums
  • gums that are tender to touch

Black Hairy Tongue

What Is It?

The surface of your tongue has hundreds of tiny, fingerlike bumps called papillae. Your taste buds are scattered among these bumps. The papillae grow constantly, and the top layer of cells normally wears away. In some people, these cells do not wear away. The papillae grow unusually long.
When this occurs, the papillae easily trap normal debris and bacteria. The bacteria multiply, producing a dark or "black" area on the tongue. It's called black hairy tongue because the overgrown papillae look hairy or furry.
This condition is not cancer. It's also not an infection. It's something like moss growing on a rock.
The cause of black hairy tongue is not known. It's not common in healthy people. When it does occur in healthy people, it's very mild.
However, some people have a higher risk of developing the condition. Not taking good care of your teeth and gums is by far the most common factor that can lead to black hairy tongue. You also have a higher risk if you:
* Smoke
* Take some types of antibiotics (which can upset the balance of bacteria in your mouth)
* Receive chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy for head and neck cancer
* Have uncontrolled diabetes or other conditions that affect the entire body

Find out more about it here such as;

Symptoms
Diagnosis
Expected Duration
Prevention
Treatment When To Call a Professional
Prognosis



Monday, June 28, 2010

Start your Monday off with a little humor...

Jokes Pertaining to Dentistry;


~ A young man saw an elderly couple sitting down to lunch at McDonald's. He noticed that they had ordered one meal, and an extra drink cup. As he watched, the gentleman carefully divided the hamburger in half, then counted out the fries, one for him, one for her, until each had half of them. Then he poured half of the soft drink into the extra cup and set that in front of his wife. The old man then began to eat, and his wife sat watching, with her hands folded in her lap. The young man decided to ask if they would allow him to purchase another meal for them so that they didn't have to split theirs. The old gentleman said, "Oh no. We've been married 50 years, and everything has always been and will always be shared, 50/50."The young man then asked the wife if she was going to eat, and she replied... "Not yet...It's his turn with the teeth!"


~ A patient sits in the dental chair with severely fractured front teeth. After discussing how they will be restored and what the fee would be the patient says," Before we begin, Doc, I gotta know: Will I be able to play the trumpet when you are finished? "The dentist replies " Sure you will! "The patient replies " Great, I couldn't play a note before!"


~ Patient: Doctor, I am very nervous. You know, this is my first extraction. Young dentist: Don’t worry, it's my first extraction too.


Find more here!

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Sunburn Relief

According to medbroadcast.com there are 17 items you can use to cool that burn. Most of us are all too familiar with the basics, aloe vera and ibuprofen. Corn starch and talcum powder, are well known to prevent chaffing and cool those sunburned areas, where the sun hardly shines. Bathing your sunburn in cool water with baking soda, vinegar or oatmeal also works well to zap the heat of your sunburn.
For those of you that appreciate the herbal remedies, witch hazel, lavender and eucalyptus are among some favorites.

Article found here.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Financing Your Dental Treatment Plan

Ok, so you've just been to the dentist and found out that you need thousands of dollars of restorative work. You have what we commonly refer to as "sticker shock". You know that you don't have that kind of money just laying around......Whether you are in need of restorative work or cosmetic dentistry, there are a variety of creative financing plans available to help. Dentistry is among the most expensive in healthcare, with costs rising even as the economy is failing. Here are some suggestions for those who are in need of major restorative work, but who cannot afford the out of pocket expense.
First of all, make sure you have good dental coverage (a good dental plan used in conjunction with your credit plan will go a long way toward lowering the costs, thereby making your money go farther.)
Here are some credit organizations to consider:

  • Care Credit Healthcare Plan is a financing company that is offered by GE Money Company. It offers financing for personal healthcare, i.e. dental, (cosmetic or restorative) vision care, surgical procedures, (and just FYI) there is financing available for pet care as well! This option does require that you qualify for a loan. Click here to read more....
  • Capital One Healthcare Finance offers financing for Dental, Vision, Cosmetic Surgery, Fertility and more. Again, this option requires that you qualify for financing. Read more....
  • All Care Financing is a program that offers dental financing with a variety of payment options. According to their website, they have high approval rates! If you think you may have a problem qualifying for a loan, this one may be the one to try. Here's the link....

Unfortunately, there are many who may not qualify for financing. Don't be discouraged. The options may be limited, but they are available if you are resourceful! There are still dentists out there who will arrange payment plans with a patient. Additionally, dental school clinics are a consideration, as they can perform most procedures at discounted fees and all work is done under supervised conditions.
Believe it or not, there is something out there for everyone in the way of affordable dental care!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Tooth Discoloration ~ Prevention

Brushing your teeth after every meal will help to prevent some stains. Dentists recommend that you rinse your mouth with water after having wine, coffee or other drinks or foods that can stain your teeth. Regular cleanings by a dental hygienist also will help to prevent surface stains.
Intrinsic stains that are caused by damage to a nerve or blood vessel in a tooth sometimes can be prevented. You may need to have root canal treatment to remove the inner part of the tooth (the pulp) before it has a chance to decay and darken. However, teeth that undergo root canal treatment may darken anyway. To prevent intrinsic stains in children, avoid overexposure to fluorides.

Read more about it here such as;

What Is It?
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Expected Duration
Treatment
When To Call a Professional
Prognosis
Additional Info

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Clean Teeth, Healthy Heart?

INTELIHEALTH - There may be yet another reason to brush your teeth: protecting your heart.
British researchers used information from a Scottish national survey. It involved 11,869 adults. People were asked how often they brushed their teeth. During the next 8 years, 555 of the people had a heart attack, stroke or other heart or blood vessel problem.
People who said they "never" or "rarely" brushed their teeth had a 70% higher risk of a heart problem than people who brushed more often.
The research also looked to see if brushing was linked with inflammation. A protein in the blood can be measured to see if inflammation is present. This blood protein is C-reactive protein, or CRP. High levels of CRP have been linked with an increased risk of heart attack.
In the study, people who brushed their teeth less often had higher levels of CRP.
The research does not mean that poor oral hygiene causes heart problems, however. It may be that people who neglect their teeth tend to have a higher risk of heart problems for other reasons. These could include poor diet, lack of exercise or excess weight. The study did not look at these factors.
Other studies have found links between periodontal disease and heart problems. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It causes inflammation. The body's response to the periodontal infection may contribute to heart disease. People with this condition have been shown to have a 19% higher overall risk of heart disease. In people under 65, the risk increase is 44%.
The study appears in the May 27 issue of the British Medical Journal.



Article found here.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Test your Knowledge!

How much do YOU know about teeth?
Test your dental knowledge and take this little quiz I found online. I scored 16 out of 20. Take the quiz and post your score as a comment. Let's see who can get 20 out of 20! :)

Monday, May 17, 2010

Three Page Management System... Simply The Best!

For Savon Dental Plan to endorse something, there has to a benefit within the dental industry. We have have found that in the Three Page Management System. Three Page is unlike other management systems, because it allows you to manage your business yourself. It does not lock you into a multi-year contract. It does not require you to turn numbers in every week. It simply gives you the tools to effectively and efficiently manage your business.

Three Page can be put into any company in any industry, but there is a version that is customized for the dental industry. It is known as "The Missing Link, In Your Practice Software". It allows you to forecast for the 8 procedural categories and tracks that forecast weekly. The results are astonishing. You can make timely business adjustments and only focus on what matters most. This system will improve your communication, give you piece of mind and increase your profits! Three Page makes it possible for you to do all of it yourself with out an annoying consultant lurking over your shoulder.

Savon Dental Plan strongly recommends Three Page Management System to ANY dental center that is looking to improve their practice! For more information, contact Savon Dental Plan's Customer Service Center at customerservice@savondentalplan.com!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Dental Centers Offering Their Own Dental Plan

There are a lot of dental centers that now offer their own dental plan. This is a good concept for the dental office, but what is the benefit for the patient?

By providing a plan for their pateints, the dental office can help the patient save money on their treatment plan that is set by the dentist. The office will then discount based in their ususal and customary rates (UCR). This may sound good for the patient, but when compared to Savon Dental Plan, the savings that patient recieve are not always that good. Also, the coverage offered by that center in most cases does not extend past that office or corporation. If a patient is unhappy with the dentist or the center, then they will have to seek alternative coverage to go somewhere else.

Savon Dental Plan overcomes that to give an great advantage to the members. First, Savon bases it's fee schedule on the average usual and customary rates of dentists per area. Then reduces that fee to 50% off to come up with the Savon price. Savon Dental Plan providers are contracted to abide by the fee schedule for Savon members. (the fee schedule for your area is posted on their website) Second, Savon has multiple providers nationwide that are available to it's members. (which is also available on their website) This allows the customer to choose a dentist that they are happy with, and the freedom to change dentist if they desire without having to seek out alternative plans.

There is so much more that Savon Dental Plan offers. To see that and how Savon compares to other dental plans, click on "the comparison zone" page of their website at www.savondentalplan.com

Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Referred to a Dental Specialist? Don't Fret! It's a Good Thing!

No, really...it is!

As a dental assistant I used to chuckle at patients, quietly of course, who would scoff at the fact that the doctor was referring them out. So I used to explain it like this...

If your medical doctor diagnosed you with a heart condition...you wouldn't think twice about being seen by a cardiologist would you? Of course not! You know your medical doctor was trained to treat you, but your Cardiologist, is a master at it. I don't know about you, but I'd rather let the master do the work.

For many, many years, the dental offices were one-stop shops. Anything you needed done from cleanings, extractions and root canals, to dentures and periodontal treatments you could have done at one office. Most general practices offered just about everything.

With the growth of treatments and technologies in the field radically changing daily, general dentists worldwide are forced to keep on their toes to be able to continue to offer all these services at their A+ rate. The reality of this is, not every general dentist can be 100% proficient, in every aspect of every field of dentistry.

This is where the beauty of specialists come in. They are able to offer the A+ treatments to patients when their general dentist is not comfortable performing a procedure or has diagnosed treatment that doesn't fall into their scope of practice. It's your general dentist's way of saying " I want you to have the best treatment possible for your situation." And why not have a doctor who does this procedure all day, day in and day out do it?

So, if you receive a referral to a dental specialist, make sure you thank your doctor. He's looking out for you, your comfort and your dental health.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Scientists Deem Chocolate Good For Your Teeth!

I actually had to laugh when I first read up on this topic. All those years of dentists coaching you to eat less sweets and VOILA! A dream come true for me and I'm sure many other chocolate lovers!

As it turns out, scientists report that parts of the cocoa bean that are used to make chocolate, also have natural occurring antibacterial agents that help fight mouth bacteria that causes tooth decay. The polyphenolen in cocoa has been shown to inhibit the growth of of bacterias such as Streptococcus which produces the sticky substance called glucan that allows cavity causing bacterias to adhere themselves to the teeth.

I also read that there are a few European companies such as Barry Callebaut and Smet who have created the first chocolate that does not cause cavities. This chocolate is made with a different type of sugar called isomaltulose which does not increase acidity levels in the mouth that lead to tooth decay.

Keep in mind while scientists have deemed chocolate good for your teeth, it still is loaded with calories and sugars that can lead to weight problems and such, so it's good to continue to consume them in moderation.

For more interesting information on this topic, check out the following websites.

www.thenakedscientists.com
www.fitsugar.com