Mortenson Family Dental Blog

MEET THE DENTIST - Dr. Suzanne Ahnquist

2012-02-08T09:48:00.000-05:00

Doctor's Full Name:

Suzanne Ahnquist, DMD, FAGD, FACE

Hometown:

Medford Lakes, NJ but now Lexington, KY (36 years)

Undergraduate College:

Valparaiso University

Postgraduate College:

Northwestern University

Dental School:

University of Kentucky School of Dentistry

Dental Specialties:

Academy of Comprehensive Esthetics - Fellow

Academy of General Dentistry - Fellow

Post Graduate Training in Endodontics, Comprehensive Cosmetics, Orthodontics (straight wire, Invisalign, 6 Month Smile), Laser Certification, Sleep Apnea, and Somnodent.

Family:

2 sons - Karl and Kyle

Favorite Toothpaste:

Doesn't have one

Manual or Power Brush?

Both

Favorite Food:

Sushi

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Whistler, British Columbia

Favorite Hobbies:

Skiing, Scuba Diving, House Renovating, Auctions, Collecting Fine, Hand-Knotted Rugs from the Middle East.

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

Any full mouth reconstruction that has made a difference in my patient's self-esteem/life/feeling of well being.

Anything else you think would be fun for your patients to know about you?

I was a gymnast in high school with my favorite event being the parallel bars.
Love, and would love to be more proficient in shooting a gun.
Have a 1970 Volvo PI800 that is totally restored.
I was a microbiologist for 10 years before dental school.
My long term goal is to retire at 67 and then attend Princeton University to get a degree in anything by sciences!

Smile Superfoods!

2012-02-07T09:34:00.000-05:00

Cheese, green tea, mushrooms, pistachios and yogurt...OH MY!

Self Magazine's list of foods that are great (and not so great) for keeping your smile healthy and beautiful!

Have a happy mouth!

2012-02-03T11:29:00.000-05:00

Here are SELF Magazine's basic "to-do's" to keep a happy and healthy mouth along with their product recommendations.

We have never seen Vitacare gum, but we are on the lookout to try some for sure!

National Dental Health Month - 5 Really Good Reasons to Smile (right now!)

2012-02-01T11:47:00.001-05:00

From this month's SELF Magazine

5 really good reasons to smile (right now!)

MEET THE DENTIST! Dr. Barrington

2012-01-31T10:16:00.001-05:00

Meet Dr. Michael Barrington from our Frankfort office!

Doctor's Full Name:

Michael Wayne Barrington

Hometown:

Louisville, KY

Undergraduate College:

Brigham Young University

Dental School:

University of Louisville

Family:

Wife, Caroline and Charlie (10 months)

Pets:

1 dead Beta fish and 2 dead hermit crabs (I should not have pets)

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate Total

Manual or Power Brush?

Power

Favorite Food:

BBQ

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Yellowstone

Favorite Hobbies:

Cars, Golf, Traveling

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

While I was in dental school, I saw a patient who had bit off part of his tongue and it was sewn back on upside down.

Anything else you think would be fun for our patients to know about you!?
(We are adding something here for Dr. Barrington!) Dr. Barrington grew up as a patient of Dr. Wayne Mortenson's at the very first Mortenson Family Dental office in Middletown, KY. During his undergraduate studies, he spent his summers working as an assistant with Dr. Wayne. Dr. Barrington says his experiences with Dr. Wayne encouraged him to study dentistry. Also, Dr. Barrington is fluent in Spanish!

A Wonderful Weekend!

2012-01-30T13:33:00.002-05:00

It was a wonderful weekend for everyone that is a part of our Mortenson family! We are so blessed to be starting a fresh new week (and year!) full of happiness, excitement, fulfillment, and feelings of great success and purpose in our community.

As a member of the Crown Council, part of our Mortenson Family Dental team headed down to Las Vegas this weekend to attend the annual Crown Council event. The Crown Council is an alliance of dedicated, leading-edge dental teams who have a commitment to building profitable practices that provide a continually rising standard of care. It is an organization who's members are chosen by invitation-only and are recognized throughout the profession as leaders in health, wellness and prevention.

You may have heard of Smiles For Life from your Mortenson Family Dental office or from seeing it on our Facebook page. The Smiles For Life program is an initiative that all Crown Council members promote during the months March through June. Hundreds of dental practices professionally whiten teeth to raise money for underprivileged and disabled children in their communities and around the world.

This weekend we received the award for raising the most money for Smiles For Life out of any other office in North America!

What an achievement! We are so happy for our teams and for all those that benefit from Smiles For Life. It is an organization that is dear to our hearts and one that we love being a part of. This is amazing fuel for us to have another amazing 4-month campaign for Smiles For Life starting in March.

Sue Mortenson accepting one of the "Top Office" banners.

The Mortenson team of doctors and team members with their Smiles For Life "Top Office" banners!

While our team visiting Las Vegas with Crown Council received an outstanding award, our teams here at home in Louisville and Southern Indiana received some wonderful news, too! On Sunday, the Louisville Courier-Journal published this year's list of "The Top Places To Work" in Louisville.

Mortenson Family Dental was chosen as the

#1 Place to Work in Louisville

for Large Employers!

How it works? The top places to work in Louisville were all based on employee surveys. Employees responded to a set of statements using a seven-point Likert scale. For employers with between 100 and 400 employees (Mortenson Family Dental), the minimum response rate was 30%. Employers are then ranked in the size group based solely on the employee responses. The top employers in each size group are then selected as the top workplaces.

To our hard-working team, passionate doctors and loyal patients - THANK YOU for making Mortenson Family Dental "Large Business of the Year" and one of Louisville's top places to work.

We are so blessed to have such amazing and talented professionals that are dedicated to not only taking care of our patients, but our team members, too.

We look forward to another prosperous year serving those in our community and beyond and establishing great relationships with you as your family dentists.

To all of our amazing patients, doctors, team members and friends...
WE APPRECIATE YOU!

MEET THE DENTIST! - Dr. Zimmerman

2012-01-25T10:18:00.000-05:00

Meet Dr. Curtis Zimmerman from our Florence office!

Doctor’s Full Name:

Curtis Robert Zimmerman

Hometown:

Randolph, Minnesota

Undergraduate College:

University of Louisville

Dental School:

University of Louisville School of Dentistry

Dental Specialties:

DMD

Family:

2 daughters—15, 17, and 1 son 7

Pets: 1 dog and lots of marine fish and corals!—saltwater aquarium

Favorite Toothpaste:

Sensodyne isoactive

Manual or Power Brush?

Power

Favorite Food:

Steak

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Anywhere warm!

Favorite Hobbies:

Love to play guitar, Banjo, and sing

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

After anesthetizing a patient, he pulled his own tooth!

Anything else you think would be fun for your patients to know about you!

Avid sports fan.

Is Dr. Zimmerman your dentist? If so, tell us why you LOVE Dr. Zimmerman by leaving a comment below!

MEET THE DENTIST! - Dr. Elias

2012-01-24T09:41:00.000-05:00

Meet Dr. James Elias from our Forest Green office!

Doctor's Full Name:

James R. Elias Jr. DMD

Hometown:

Louisville, KY

Undergraduate College:

Kentucky Wesleyan and University of Louisville

Dental School:

University of Louisville School of Dentistry

Dental Specialties:

CEREC Crowns (completed same day)

Family:

Wife, Patti and 4 Children: Jack (13) Regan (10) Sawyer (5) Bowen (3)

Pets:
Two dogs: George and Gally

Favorite Toothpaste:
Colgate

Manual or Power Brush?
Power

Favorite Food:
Italian

Favorite Vacation Spot:
Disney World

Favorite Hobbies:
Tennis, Golf, Camping, Fishing

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:
Being dunked in a dunking booth at our patient appreciation day event by a range of patients, ranging from 5 years old to 85 years old. I thought I was going to drown.

Meet the Dentist! - Dr. Rogers

2012-01-18T10:14:00.001-05:00

Meet Dr. Sara Rogers from our Elizabethtown location!

Doctor's Full Name:

Sara Richardson Rogers

Hometown:

Bloomfield, KY

Undergraduate College:

Western Kentucky

Dental School:

U of L

Dental Specialties:

General

Family:

I have been married for 6 years to my husband Clayton. Our son John Clayton is one year old and is the light of our lives!

Pets:

None

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate Sensitive

Manual or Power Brush?

Power

Favorite Food:

Kentucky Silk Pie

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Savannah, GA

Favorite Hobbies:

Spending time with my family, going to the movies, working outside.

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

Memories are made every day that I step foot in the dental office. Every patient has a story; some are uplifting and humorous, while others are heartbreaking and humbling. Unfortunately, society often judges us by the way we look. Right or wrong, fair or not, people make assumptions about us based on our appearance.

I would have to say that my most memorable moments in dentistry take place when a patient has a life changing experience in the dental chair. Whether it's a patient who feels self-conscious about the appearance of their smile, or some who's had a traumatic dental experience, there is no greater feeling than to help a patient overcome their fears or insecurities. I am truly blessed to be a part of a profession that's in the business of helping people!

Anything else you think would be fun for your patients to know about you?

I live on a dairy and grain farm in Cox's Creek, KY!

Is Dr. Sara your dentist? Leave us a comment below and tell us why you love Dr. Sara!

Meet The Dentist! - Dr. Matt Morgan

2012-01-17T10:44:00.003-05:00

Dr. Matt showing "how dentistry is really done!" - JUST KIDDING!

Meet Dr. Matt Morgan from our Elizabethtown office!

Doctor's Full Name:

Matthew Thomas Morgan

Hometown:

Born: Louisville - Grew up: Crestwood

Undergraduate College:

Transylvania University

Dental School:

U of L

Dental Specialties:

General

Family:

Wife - Kelli, Daughters - Lili (12), Maia (9)

Pets:

We have a zoo - literally too many to count. Horses, cattle, sheep, goats, chickens

Favorite Toothpaste:

Crest with Scope

Manual or Power Brush?

Both

Favorite Food:

Spicy foods, curries, seafood paella

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Lake Cumberland, Rocky Mountains, Hawaii, International Travel (I like travel!)

Favorite Hobbies:

Water Skiing

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

When I mad a lady a set of dentures because she flushed hers down the toilet, half way into the procedure she came in wearing them saying "the plumber found them in the trap and it was OK because she "boiled them."

Anything else you think would be fun for your patients to know about you?

I'm a part time farmer!

Is Dr. Matt your dentist? Leave us a comment below and tell us why you love Dr. Matt!

19 Habits That Wreck Your Teeth

2012-01-16T10:28:00.001-05:00

From WebMD.com

1. Chewing on Ice

It’s natural and sugar free, so you might think ice is harmless. But munching on hard, frozen cubes can chip or even crack your teeth. And if your mindless chomping irritates the soft tissue inside a tooth, regular toothaches may follow. Hot foods and cold foods may trigger quick, sharp jabs of pain or a lingering toothache. Next time you get the urge for ice, chew some sugarless gum instead.

2. Playing Sports With No Mouth Guard

Whether you play football, hockey, or any other contact sport, don't get in the game without a mouth guard. This is a piece of molded plastic that protects the upper row of teeth. Without it, your teeth could get chipped or even knocked out when the action gets rough. Self-fitting mouth guards may be purchased at a store, or you can have one custom made by your dentist.

3. Bedtime Bottles

It’s never too early to protect teeth. Giving a baby a bedtime bottle of juice, milk, or formula, can put new teeth on a path to decay. The baby may become used to falling asleep with the bottle in his or her mouth, bathing the teeth in sugars overnight. It's best to keep bottles out of the crib.

4. Tongue Piercings

Tongue piercings may be trendy, but biting down on the metal stud can crack a tooth. Lip piercings pose a similar risk. And when metal rubs against the gums, it can cause gum damage that may lead to tooth loss. The mouth is also a haven for bacteria, so piercings raise the risk of infections and sores. Bottom line, discuss the health risks with your dentist first.

5. Grinding Teeth

Teeth grinding, or bruxism, can wear teeth down over time. It is most often caused by stress and sleeping habits. This makes it hard to control. Avoiding hard foods during the day can reduce pain and damage from this habit. Wearing a mouth guard at night can prevent grinding while sleeping.

6. Cough Drops

Just because cough drops are sold in the medicine aisle doesn't mean they’re healthy. Most are loaded with sugar. So after soothing your throat with a lozenge, be sure to brush well. Whether the sugar comes from a cough drop or a hard candy, it reacts with the sticky plaque that coats your teeth. Then bacteria in the plaque convert the sugar into an acid that eats away at tooth enamel. Hello, cavities.

7. Gummy Candy

All sugary treats promote tooth decay, but some candies are harder to bear. Gummies stick in the teeth, keeping the sugar and resulting acids in contact with your enamel for hours. If your day just isn't the same without a gummy critter, pop a couple during a meal instead of as a separate snack. More saliva is produced during meals, which helps rinse away candy bits and acids.

8. Soda

Candy isn't the only culprit when it comes to added sugar. Sodas can have up to 11 teaspoons of sugar per serving. To add insult to injury, sodas also contain phosphoric and citric acids, which eat away at tooth enamel. Diet soft drinks let you skip the sugar, but they may have even more acid in the form of the artificial sweeteners.

9. Opening Stuff With Your Teeth

Opening bottle caps or plastic packaging with your teeth may be convenient, but this is one habit that makes dentists cringe. Using your teeth as tools can cause them to crack or chip. Instead, keep scissors and bottle openers handy. Bottom line, your teeth should only be used for eating.

10. Sports Drinks

There's no doubt a cold sports drink is refreshing after a good workout. But these drinks are usually high in sugar. Like soda or candy, sugary sports drinks create an acid attack on the enamel of your teeth. Drinking them frequently can lead to decay. A better way to stay hydrated at the gym is to chug sugar-free, calorie-free water.

11. Fruit Juice

Fruit juice is loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, but unfortunately most juices are also loaded with sugar. Some juices can have as much sugar per serving as soda. For example, there are only 10 more grams of sugar in orange soda than in orange juice. Fruits are naturally sweet, so look for juice that has no added sugar. You can also reduce the sugar content by diluting juice with some water.

12. Potato Chips

The bacteria in plaque will also break down starchy foods into acid. This acid can attack the teeth for the next 20 minutes -- even longer if the food is stuck between the teeth or you snack often. You might want to floss after eating potato chips or other starchy foods that tend to get stuck in the teeth.

13. Constant Snacking

Snacking produces less saliva than a meal, leaving food bits in your teeth for hours longer. Avoid snacking too frequently, and stick to snacks that are low in sugar and starch -- for example, carrot sticks.

14. Chewing on Pencils

Do you ever chew on your pencil when concentrating on work or studies? Like crunching on ice, this habit can cause teeth to chip or crack. Sugarless gum is a better option when you feel the need to chew. It will trigger the flow of saliva, which can make teeth stronger and protect against enamel-eating acids.

15. Drinking Coffee

Coffee's dark color and acidity can cause yellowing of the teeth over time. Fortunately, it's one of the easiest stains to treat with various whitening methods. Talk to your dentist if you're concerned about discoloration of your teeth.

16. Smoking

Cigarettes, as well as other tobacco products, can stain teeth and cause them to fall out as a result of gum disease. Tobacco can also cause cancer of the mouth, lips, and tongue. If you were looking for one more reason to quit, think of your smile.

17. Drinking Red Wine

The acids in wine eat away at tooth enamel, creating rough spots that make teeth more vulnerable to staining. Red wine also contains a deep pigment called chromogen and tannins, which help the color stick to the teeth. This combination makes it easy for the wine's red color to stay with you long after your glass is empty.

18. Drinking White Wine

You might think sticking to white wine would spare your teeth. But the acids still weaken the enamel, leaving the teeth porous and vulnerable to staining from other beverages, such as coffee. Swishing with water after drinking or using toothpaste with a mild whitening agent can fight the staining effects of red and white wines.

19. Binge Eating

Source: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/ss/slideshow-teeth-wreckers?ecd=wnl_orh_011612

VELscope Featured on "The Doctors" today!

2012-01-10T18:00:00.012-05:00

FEATURED ON

VELscope, the oral cancer early detection system that we use in all of our offices will be featured on "The Doctors" TV show this morning! The theme of the show is...

"12 Tricks to Save your Life in 2012."

This is just the latest example of how important VELscope's early detection technology is becoming in minds of high-profile health experts. Dr. Gordon Christensen, one of the most vocal supporters of the VELscope cause, recently filmed a video encouraging dental practices to step up their efforts to detect oral cancer. In addition, not long ago The Dr. Oz Show did a major story (featuring Dr. Jonathan Levine) demonstrating the VELscope's ability to help dentists detect oral cancer at early stages. Both "The Dr. Oz Show" and "The Doctors" have done previous stories on the VELscope system as well.

Check it out on Louisville's

WHAS TV 11 at 10 AM!

MEET THE DENTIST - Dr. Matt Mortenson

2012-01-10T10:51:00.004-05:00

Meet Dr. Matt Mortenson from our Dixie Highway location!

Doctor's Full Name:

Matthew Owen Mortenson

Hometown:

Winnemucca, Nevada

Undergraduate College:

Brigham Young University & University of Louisville

Dental School:

University of Louisville

Family:

Wife, Jen; Daughter, Megan (age 9); Sons, Ben (age 7), Zac (age 4), Jake (age 2) and Max (almost 1)...and a partridge in a pear tree...

Pets:

Skippy, a golden retriever and a cat named Bella.

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate

Manual or Power Brush?

Power - Sonicare

Favorite Food:

Chocolate, pizza, steak, chocolate, BBQ, cake, Mexican food.

Favorite Vacation Spot:

We just returned from Disney World and the kids loved it. I think Disney is my favorite because of all the fun and memories we enjoyed.

Favorite Hobbies:

Talking about cars, playing with my kids, volunteering with Boy Scouts, being outside.

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

While doing an externship in a private practice my last year of dental school, a woman, 9 months pregnant came into the office with a toothache. During her procedure to treat her pain she went into labor! An ambulance was called and she went to the hospital only to find out it was false labor. Needles to say, I wasn't prepared for that kind of excitement in the office. We were all so happy that everything turned out OK!

Is Dr. Matt your dentist? Leave us a comment below and tell us why you love Dr. Matt!

MEET THE DENTIST - Dr. Brown!

2012-01-09T10:01:00.002-05:00

Doctor's Full Name:

Blair Ryan Brown

Hometown:

Fort Macleod - Alberta, Canada

Undergraduate College:

Brigham Young University

Dental School:

University of Louisville

Dental Specialties:

Awesomeness

Family:

Wife - Laura

Daughter - Cami 3

Son - Noah 18 months

Pets:

None

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate

Manual or Power Brush?

Power - Sonicare

Favorite Food:

BBQ

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Paris, France

Favorite Hobbies:

BBQ grill smoking, cooking, motorcycles

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

During our recent renovation at our office, I had a 7 year old young man in for his first ever filling. Our assistant sat him in the chair, and she told him Dr. Brown would be right in. In the meantime, the construction crew began to use a saw-z-all power tool which makes an awful racket. I came in the room to see this poor brave little boy gripping the chair with white knuckles, and eyes as wide as dinner plates. The noise started again and his level of anxiety was further heightened. Despite all of his anxiousness he still remained resolute in determination not to cry or call out for his mom. I reached out my hand, and put it on his shoulder and said, "son, those noises are from the construction workers. none of that is happening to an actual person." His grip relaxed, his eyes returned to their normal size, and he did beautifully for the rest of the appointment.

Is Dr. Brown your dentist? Leave us a comment below and tell us why you love Dr. Brown!

Making Your New Years Resolutions Stick

2012-01-05T09:30:00.003-05:00

Year after year we make new year's resolutions that we are determined to stick to yet, it always seems like we lose focus of them come spring. Here are some great tips from the NIH that can help you stay on track and achieve your resolutions. Achieving your resolutions will most likely mean you have made a habit change that has turned into a lifestyle change - and that is a great achievement!

Making your New Year’s resolutions stick; How to create healthy habits

New Year’s resolutions—they’re easy to make but easier to break. Why is it so hard to make the healthy changes that we know can help us feel better and live longer? And why is it so hard to make them last? National Institutes of Health-funded scientists are learning more about how we can make healthy changes and, even more important, how we can sustain them.

“Change is always possible,” says Linda Nebeling, Ph.D., an expert in behavioral change and nutrition at NIH. You’re never too out-of-shape, too overweight or too old to make healthy changes.

Research suggests that some common strategies can boost your chance of making the change a habit, a part of your daily lifestyle.

Making healthy changes

Set realistic goals. Write down the steps that will help you achieve them.
Develop an action plan. How are you going to achieve your goal?
Plan for obstacles. Figure out how to overcome them. Don’t give up just because you’ve slipped.
Track your progress. A journal or diary is one of the best tools for helping you stay focused and recover from slip-ups.
Get help. Ask friends and family for support. Consider enrolling in a class or program.
Reward yourself. Give yourself a healthy treat when you’ve achieved a small goal or milestone.
Add variety. Keep things interesting by adding new activities or expanding your goals to make them more challenging.

WHAT HELPS YOU ACHIEVE YOUR RESOLUTIONS?

Share your resolutions and your keys to achieving them in the comment box below.

Read the full article here.

Source: NIH News in Health; http://www.ada.org/news/6656.aspx

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. COMBS

2012-01-04T09:00:00.003-05:00

Meet Dr. Stacey Combs from our Crestwood office!

Doctor's Full Name:

Anastasia Morgan Combs

Hometown:

Hyden, KY

Undergraduate College:

Alice Lloyd College

Dental School:

University of Kentucky School of Dentistry

Family:

Husband, Chris. 2 sons, Clay - 6 and Max - 2

Pets:

Dog - Labradoodle - Bailey

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate Total - Paste

Manual or Power Brush?

Power - Sonicare!

Favorite Food:

Caprese salad, anything fresh from the garden :) ..and chocolate.

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Anywhere and everywhere!

Favorite Hobbies:

Playing with my boys; reading; concert going; pottery.

New Year, New You, Big Smile!

2011-12-28T09:30:00.001-05:00

January is when we think about our new years resolutions, and we tend to hear the same ones…eat better, exercise more, and stop smoking. What we don’t hear often is “I’ll visit my dentist every six months,” or “brush twice everyday.” Very few people consider improving their oral health over the next year. However, according to the British Dental Health Foundation, people who make a resolution to adopt a good oral health routine in 2012 will benefit from more than just improved oral health. Adopting good oral health can contribute to avoiding potentially serious health conditions such as diabetes, strokes and heart disease. This year, make a new years resolution that’s attainable and is one you can smile about!

1. Brush your teeth twice daily and floss your teeth once daily every day.

2. Use toothpaste with fluoride to help prevent decay.

3. Use a mouth rinse. An antimicrobial rinse can can provide extra help in controlling plaque.

4. Replace your toothbrush every 3 months. Your mouth is a very germy place...and therefore, your toothbrush is pretty germy, too! It never hurts to replace it, especially after being sick.

5. Whitening your teeth. Just using an at-home whitening kit can whiten your smile after a few uses and will make you look and feel better.

6. Eat healthy meals and snacks. Maintaining a healthy diet plays a major role in maintaing good dental health. Avoid starchy foods, like crackers, as they can be worse for your teeth than some sweets. Keep lots of fruits and vegetables on your plate!

7. Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups! Visiting the dentist regularly not only gives you a professional and thorough cleaning, but can prevent deeper dental issues from occurring, such as gum disease and oral cancer. You'll save money this way, too!

8. SMILE MORE! The end result of great oral care will make you want to SMILE MORE! Using your smile reaps numerous other benefits, too. Smiling is contagious and is unique to you. Share your smile with family, friends, strangers, everyone! Smiling helps you stay positive, makes you more attractive and makes you seem more successful as you appear more confident when smiling. Smiling relieves stress, which helps to boost your immune system and it changes your mood by releasing endorphins, natural painkillers, and serotonin, which together make you feel good.

Cheers to a happy new year full of lots of love, happiness, and SMILES!

Post credits: www.moorefamilydentist.com/8-dental-resolutions, http://dentistry.about.com/od/dentalhealth/a/Newyear.htm

Importance of Oral Care During This Time of Year

2011-12-27T12:34:00.001-05:00

It’s extremely important for people to take extra caution with their teeth and gums at this time of year.

With the amount of food and beverages consumed, people can see their oral health deteriorate quickly. The British Dental Health Foundation is making sure people are on notice about this situation.

When consuming sugary food and drinks, it’s important to keep teeth and gums in mind—just like the rest of the year. It doesn’t take much for the teeth enamel to be weakened or worn down based on consistent grazing of food throughout the day. When that happens, the teeth never get a break.

Dentists aren’t necessarily trying to limit fun during the holiday season but they just want people to be cognizant of the possible ramifications of failing to maintain solid oral health at this time of year.

It’s essential to drink water to combat sugar and acidity that come from many foods and beverages. It’s also important to brush as often as you do the rest of the year. That way one’s tooth enamel will remain intact.

Post Credit: http://www.dentistrytoday.com/todays-dental-news/6671-people-need-to-take-care-of-oral-health-this-time-of-year

10 Tips for Keeping Teeth Extra Clean During Christmas

2011-12-21T09:30:00.000-05:00

A beautiful, bright & white smile will always help you stay self-confident. Here are the top 10 tips for keeping your teeth extra clean during Christmas Holidays.

1. Eat right for whiter teeth.

If you are used to consuming coffee, black tea and on top of that you also smoke, chances are that your teeth look yellowish and spotted. After eating any foods that stain your teeth you should immediately brush them in order to avoid staining. Avoid dark juices, cola and gravies and get used to healthy snacks such as raw vegetables (apples, carrots, etc.) that help clean your teeth thoroughly.

2. Respect brushing times.

Latest researches have released a study according to which the perfect time for brushing your teeth is two minutes. Two minutes are needed in order to cleanse your teeth from bacteria and harmful deposits. Use either a timer, or get used to humming a song such as “I Wish You A Merry Christmas” (it actually works!)

3. Use the brush lightly on your teeth.

There is a misconception that if you brush harder the teeth, you will cleanse them teeth better. Brush using circular movements, and by holding the brush at a 45 degree position against your gums.

4. Tea is important for your teeth.

Drink at least one cup every day, because tea contains important flavonoids and fluoride that will prevent the bacteria from sticking to your teeth.

5. Use only alcohol-free mouthwash.

Rinses that contain alcohol dry your mouth excessively, and some studies have even proved that alcohol mouth washes increase the risk of oral cancer.

6. Always cleanse your tongue.

Make sure to clean your tongue thoroughly in order to remove all the harmful bacteria deposits and to obtain a fresh breath. There are several professional brushes that come with a tongue scraper.

7. Use baking soda for whiter teeth.

Use a small amount of baking soda to brush your teeth with it. Alternatively, if you feel that baking soda is rough on your gums, use salt instead because it has the same whitening effect.

8. Don’t use your teeth to open bottles or Christmas gifts with tear plastic covers.

Make sure that you always have in handy a pair of scissors and bottle openers. Using your teeth for such purposes can break or chip them easily.

9. Hydrate properly.

Make sure to drink one glass of water every hour while you are working. This way you will help flush all the harmful bacteria from your mouth, and you will also keep your digestive system healthy. The more water you drink, the healthier and whiter your teeth will be. Moreover, the risk for gum disease and cavities will also be significantly reduced.

10. Chew on cinnamon flavored gum.

Recent studies have shown that if you chew on cinnamon flavored gum the bacteria in your mouth will be significantly reduced. The main ingredient that helps doing this is called “cinnamic aldehyde” (essential oil that fights against the production of bacteria in the oral cavity).

Post credit: http://worldental.org/oral-hygiene/10-tips-keeping-teeth-extra-clean-christmas-holidays/5527/

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. RENSLOW

2011-12-19T09:41:00.002-05:00

Doctor’s Full Name:

Danielle Renslow McHatton

Hometown:

Discovery Bay, California

Undergraduate College:

Brigham Young University; also attended American University in London, Richmond to study art history

Dental School:

University of Louisville

Dental Specialties:

I am a general dentist who does a little of everything. I do braces, brackets and clear correct. I perform root canals and extractions. I also do cosmetic dentistry , dentures and partials.

Family:

I am the youngest of three children. I have the best parents in the world. I am a wife and mother of two girls: Shain (7) and Codi (5). I am married to Scott, who has a son named Jeffery and a daughter named Kaitlyn.

Pets:

I used to own two English Bulldogs when I was in dental school. I do not own any pets at this current time. I am not home enough to love and care for one.

Favorite Toothpaste:

Crest Pro Health

Manual or Power Brush?

Manual

Favorite Food:

I love Mexican food from my hometown in Brentwood, California called El Camino. It is seriously the best Mexican food on this planet!

Favorite Vacation Spot:

England

Favorite Hobbies:

I love to spend time with my family, read, draw in my journals, drive fun cars and snowboard.

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

Every day brings memorable moments in my job. I would say the best moment is hearing from my patients that they love coming to this office and seeing us all. I appreciate my staff immensely and care deeply for my patients.

Stocking Stuffers with a Dental Twist!

2011-12-14T12:54:00.001-05:00

Chic Flic Advanced Tooth Whitening and Lip Gloss Plumper Pen

$28 at any Mortenson location!

Whiter Image Teeth Whitening Pen

$20 at any Mortenson location

Colgate Wisp

A single-use mini toothbrush with a breath-freshening bead that allows you to have a clean, fresh mouth anywhere, anytime – no water or rinsing required!
$7.99 for a 16 pack at drugstores nationwide.

Cresh Spinbrush Pro Clean Battery Powered Toothbrush

$6 Wal*mart.com

Reach Flosser

$2.99 at Walgreens.com and other drugstores nationwide

Crest 3D Vivid White Strips

$24.99 at Target.com

Mortenson Family Dental Care to Share Brochure!

Pick up a Care to Share brochure at any Mortenson location and slip it in the stocking or on top of a Christmas present of a family, friend, neighbor or co-worker that hasn't visited Mortenson before. When they go to their first visit they will get $50 off! Plus, we will thank you with a $50 dental credit on your Mortenson account! This is a win-win for everyone! :)

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. TANNER - Corydon

2011-12-13T09:52:00.001-05:00

Dr. Mark (L) with Dr. Tanner and Dr. Tanner at Free Day of Dentistry!

MEET DR. TANNER FROM OUR CORYDON OFFICE!

Doctor's Full Name:
Nicholas Tanner

Hometown:
Spokane, WA

Undergraduate College:
Brigham Young University

Dental School:
University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine

Dental Specialties:
IV Sedation

Family:
Wife and 4 kids

Pets:
None

Favorite Toothpaste:
Colgate Total

Manual or Power Brush?
Power

Favorite Food:
Chorrasco (Brazilian Barbecue)

Favorite Vacation Spot:
Yosemite

Favorite Hobbies:
Road biking, weight lifting, my kids

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:
BOCA trip to Dominican Republic (BOCA = Buffalo Outreach Community Assistance)

Anything Else You Think Would Be Fun For Your Patients To KnowAbout You:
I was in a juggle and unicycle club in elementary school.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR!

2011-12-08T12:19:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday night, 14 Mortenson executives and employees joined Dr. Wayne Mortenson for the Business First: Business of the Year Awards Gala carrying high hopes for a great win. We are so grateful to have had a fantastic and successful year, opening 6 new locations in the Louisville area and expanding beyond our Kentuckiana roots to Georgia and Iowa.

After a fun hour of mixing and mingling with other finalists and excellent business teams, we enjoyed a delicious dinner before the awards ceremony began. A statement that was read during the introduction of the ceremony set the perfect tone for the evening: "We are all winners," a statement that could not be truer. The Cascade Ballroom in the Kentucky International Convention Center was certainly filled to the brim with winners.

There were 5 categories: Non-Profit Organization of the Year, Small Company of the Year, Medium Company of the Year, Large Company of the Year, and Very Large Company of the Year. There were 3 finalists in the non-profit, small, medium and large categories, and 4 finalists in the very large category. It was great to watch short video clips of all the finalists' businesses before the winners were announced. Louisville is lucky to be the origin of so many superior businesses that have fantastic visions for great success. We are so proud to share that we won BUSINESS OF THE YEAR in the large company category. We want to congratulate our fellow finalists in the large company category, Mr. "P" Express, INC. and CandyRific LLC. for their eminent success in 2011.

There are so many factors that we contribute to our growth and success, especially in 2011. Dr. Wayne says that "having a recognizable brand has helped [Mortenson's] local expansions." We also contribute our success to having an exceptional leader, Dr. Wayne, who has a clear mission, vision, and set of core values that are clearly understood and practiced by Mortenson employees. Mortenson Family Dental is committed to making dentistry easy for everyone in our community. We take pride in our patient experience and in making dental visits enjoyable, comfortable, and personable for our patients. We give incentives to see the dentist by offering evening and weekend hours. Mortenson accepts most dental insurance plans and has an internal discount plan exclusive to Mortenson patients all in an effort to make the cost of dental treatments and needs achievable and accessible to everyone.We strongly believe in the importance of giving back to our community and provide a free day of dentistry to new and existing patients about once every quarter. Most importantly, we believe in thanking our patients. Establishing lasting and rewarding relationships with our patients is so important to us. Whether it be at individual office Patient Appreciation events, or simple reminders or giveaways on our social media platforms, we always take great care in ensuring that our patients know how much we value and appreciate them. The growth we have experienced over the years is the result of our patients whose continued patronage and faithful support have been vital to our success.

How does the Business of the Year selection process work?

Business First considers many factors in making the selections for Business of the Year finalists and winners. Factors include financial performance, increased market share, new products or services and major new clients. Also considered are contributions to the community and how the businesses and organizations treat their employees and clients. After the finalists were chosen, a panel of 5 judges were recruited to select the winners.

Tuesday night was such an amazing and humbling experience for everyone. We cherish our employees, patients and community as a part of our Mortenson family and extend our most sincere thanks to you for your loyalty to Mortenson Family Dental. As 2011 comes to a close, we look back with great joy and gratification and we look forward to the new year filled with happiness, excellence and success!

The Dish on Nail Biting from NYC Dentist Thomas P. Connelly, D.D.S.

2011-12-06T09:44:00.000-05:00

Mouth Health: The Dish on Biting Your Nails

Thomas P. Connelly, D.D.S.

Let's talk today about biting your nails, and why it's bad for you.

To start, let me say that yes, I know you nail biters out there really don't want to hear about it. You probably realize it's not the greatest habit in the world, and you're ready with the "well, at least I don't smoke/drink/other bad habit" rebuttal. But as a dentist (a dentist with a blog, no less), I feel it's my duty to let you know the perils of nail biting, especially as it relates to your teeth and oral health.

Let's start with a few facts. Nail biting (technically called Onychophagia) is fairly widespread, and varies wildly with age, as outlined below:

About 30% of children aged 7-10 bite their nails

About 45% of teenagers bite their nails

About 25% of young adults bite their nails

Only about 5% of older adults bite their nails

The above seems to mirror the fact that nail biting is generally seen as a stress-induced habit (as it peaks during the stressful teenage years), and usually subsides as we age.

Now that that's out of the way, let's talk about how nail biting is harmful to you:

It's unsanitary: Your fingers are pretty much involved in almost everything you do. Even with frequent hand-washing, your fingers are still dirty. Your fingernails are almost twice as dirty as your fingers. Since fingernails are not the easiest places in the world to clean, there's all manner of germs and bacteria underneath there-- germs you really don't want in your mouth. And when you bite your nails, you are inviting these germs into your mouth (and chewing them, etc.) Plus, bitten nails can be jagged, and may cut the gums, allowing these undesirable germs to easily access your bloodstream.

It's unsanitary (part two) - If you bite your nails close enough to irritate your cuticles and/or break the skin, the germ transfer from your mouth to the open wound is not really the best thing in the world for you. The two "germiest" places on your body are generally your hands/fingernails and your mouth. So it's pretty easy to see why putting these two together in the form of nail biting is not desirable.

It's not good for your looks: Nail biting really isn't the most pleasant thing to watch. But you likely already knew that. Plus, the nails themselves are far from attractive (manicured they aren't!)

It's not good for your teeth: Of course I take a personal interest in this part. But your teeth are not meant to be chewing all the time. Nail biting tends to keep your teeth in constant motion, which can wear them down faster than a non-nail biter's. In addition, nail biting puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth, and can weaken them, contribute to the teeth becoming crooked / misaligned, etc.

It's not good for teeth with braces, either: This one is more for the kids (or adults with braces), but since braces already put pressure on teeth, the additional pressure from nail biting really isn't welcome, and could lead to the weakening of the roots.

It can be costly: According to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime. That's quite a bit of money. Of course, that doesn't take into account how much time/money being sick from all the germ transfers costs you, too. I could not find hard data on this (largely because it's unlikely a significant study was done), but it's not a stretch to assume that, all else being equal, nail biters will get sick more often during their lifetime than those who do not bite their nails.

So as you can see, nail biting is a pretty significant habit. Now that I've outlined all this bad news, let me finish up on a positive note with three tips on how to stop biting your nails:

First, be more conscious of it. I know it sounds obvious, but "try" not to bite your nails. It really has helped some people. Also, ask others to tell you when you are biting your nails.
Keep your nails looking good. Use some nail polish, and even get a manicure once in a while (yes, even you guys can do this). It's harder to bite great-looking nails - you just won't "want" to!
Make it unpleasant. There are over-the-counter solutions specifically made for this. They are odorless and colorless, but taste terrible -- you won't want to bite nails treated with these solutions. Ask at the drug store, or just search online.

Good luck in breaking your nail biting habit!

Until next time, keep smiling :)

Follow Thomas P. Connelly, D.D.S. on Twitter: www.twitter.com/dr_connelly

Credit: Connelly, Thomas P. "Mouth Health: The Dish on Nail Biting." Huff Post Healthy Living. The Hufifngton Post, 20 May 2010. Web. 6 Dec. 2011. <http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thomas-p-connelly-dds/mouth-health-the-dish-on_b_574866.html>.

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. VLAHOS - Buechel Location

2011-12-05T10:00:00.004-05:00

Dr. Vlahos (far left) and her team at Buechel!

Dr. Vlahos' son Zander. Isn't he precious!?

Meet Dr. Vlahos from our Buechel location!

Doctor's Full Name:
Susan Diana (Hoehn) Vlahos

Hometown:
Mr. Vernon, IN

Undergraduate College:
Western Kentucky University

Dental School:
University of Louisville

Dental Specialties:
General Dentist

Family:
Husband - Dr. Jonathan Vlahos, Endo Resident at UofL
Son - Alekzander "Zander", 15 months

Pets:
None

Favorite Toothpaste:
Crest

Manual or Power Brush?
Manual (I love the Sonicare but it tickles my nose!)

Favorite Food:
Mom's Pot Roast - or ANYTHING Mexican

Favorite Vacation Spot:
Hawaii is the best vacation spot I've visited. Thailand was a neat experience, and I can't wait to see Italy!

Favorite Hobbies:
Reading, playing the piano, spending as much time as possible with my husband and Zander and our families.

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:
My very first patient in dental school came in for an initial exam and had to use the restroom in the middle of his appointment. He somehow got lost in the clinic and couldn't find his way back to finsih the appointment. I was devastated and the instructors were laughing hysterically!

Another fun fact we'll add in there! Dr. Vlahos was a dentist in Okinawa, Japan for the United States Air Force!

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

2011-12-02T11:49:00.001-05:00

Friday, December 2nd

Junior League of Louisville's 6th Annual *HOLLYDAYS*

The three-day art and gift market provides an excellent way to jumpstart holiday shopping. The funds raised to Hollydays and through the silent auction are returned to the community through projects focusing on improving the lives of women and children.

Melwood Arts Center

1860 Melwood Ave 40206

Friday, December 2nd- 6:00-9:30 p.m. $10 Admission
Saturday, December 3rd- 11:00-5:00 p.m. $5 Admission
Sunday, December 4th- 12:00-4:00 p.m. $5 Admission

Friday Night at The Speed

Be the Speed's guest free for the evening. Enjoy complimentary (a synonym for "free") admission to the museum’s permanent collection and the award-winning Art Sparks Interactive Family Gallery on the first Friday of the month. Parenting tip: Before your 2-year-old ventures into Art Sparks' watercolor room, calculate if the fun she'll have painting will offset the not-fun you'll have scrubbing her hands and clothes afterwards.

Dec. 2, 5–9 p.m.
The Speed Art Museum
2035 S. Third St.
speedmuseum.org
502-634-2700

Saturday, December 3rd

Light up St. Matthews

Brown Park (behind Baptist Hospital East)

“Light Up” features N2It Entertainment, letters to Santa, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, train rides, horse-drawn carriage rides, petting zoo, Ronald McDonald, cookies, hot chocolate and apple cider and much, much more. At 6:00 pm the switch is thrown and Brown Park “Light Up” with thousands and thousands of lights. And…it’s all FREE!

Family fun and entertainment will kick off the holiday season with the 21st Annual “Light Up” St. Matthews in Brown Park.

The "big switch" is thrown at 6PM that will "light up" St. Matthew!

Brown’s Lane and Bowling Boulevard.

Light up Jeffersonville & Holiday Parade

Enjoy the official start of the holiday season in Jeffersonville. Come enjoy a parade of holiday lights! The parade will be followed by Light Up Jeffersonville. Come enjoy music, dancing, refreshments, a visit from Santa and free trolley and horse carriage rides.

Saturday 5-11 PM

Downtown Jeffersonville
Spring St at Riverside
Jeffersonville, IN 47199

Jeffersontown's Holiday on Gaslight Square

Start the holiday season with Santa and the Mayor at Gaslight Square!

Saturday 6-8PM

Jeffersontown City Hall
10416 Watterson Trail 40299

Bernheim Holiday Open House

Bring a friend, enjoy a delightful lunch at Isaac’s Café, and celebrate the season (despite the temperatures, that'd be fall) while taking care of your entire holiday shopping list at Bernheim’s Holiday Open House. There will be free gift drawings and holiday specials, handcrafted jewelry and art by Kentucky artists (keep it local or Santa's giving you coal), a variety of nature books, the Bernheim book, apparel for adults and children, and local artisans demonstrating their crafts and taking your orders. An idea for a great gift: Bernheim membership. Members receive an extra 10 percent off their purchases at the gift shop through December.

Dec. 3, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
HWY 245, Clermont
bernheim.org
502-955-8512
Free event; non-members pay regular $5 per car to enter Bernheim

Annual Old Louisville Holiday Home Tour

The 35th Annual Old Louisville Holiday House Tour is scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, December 3-4, from 12–6 p.m. This year’s tour is presented by the Old Louisville Neighborhood Council/OLIC and features eight mansions including the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, plus the Woman’s Club of Louisville. The 2011 Holiday House Tour begins with parking (included with ticket purchase) at Cochran Elementary School, Fifth and Lee Streets (if your probation terms preclude being within 500 yards of a school though, you're on your own). Shuttle van transportation is available from the parking lot to the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, 1402 St. James Court, where all tickets are picked up in the basement Gift Boutique. Shuttles run continuously on the house tour route.

Dec. 3–4
Old Louisville
1402 St. James Ct.
holidayhousetour.com
502-635-5244
$20 in advance, $25 the day of the tour

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. FUCHS

2011-11-29T10:00:00.001-05:00

Meet Dr. Fuchs from our Audubon office!

Doctor's Full Name:

Robert Jacob Fuchs

Hometown:

Louisville, KY

Undergraduate College:

Wabash College

Dental School:

University of Louisville

Family:

Wife, Martha & Children, Lauren, Daniel and Carolyn

Pets:

None

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate

Manual or Power Brush?

Power

Favorite Food:

German

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Gulf Shores

Favorite Hobbies:

Golf, Wine Making

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

Treating children in Bolivia

Meet the Dentist! - Dr. Berger

2011-11-28T09:58:00.001-05:00

Dr. Berger and his daughter Emily!

Meet Dr. Berger for our Audubon office!

Doctor's Full Name:

Aaron Spalding Berger

Hometown:

Louisville, KY

Undergraduate College:

Bellarmine University

Dental School:

University of Louisville

Family:

Wife Racheal and 1 year old daughter Emily

Pets:

Chocolate lab, Daisy

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate Total

Manual or Power Brush?

Power - Sonicare

Favorite Food:

Steak or Italian

Favorite Vacation Spot:

Beach - relaxing under the umbrella

Favorite Hobbies:

Enjoy spending time with wife and 1 year old daughter and watching movies

Dental Floss Uses for Thanksgiving Traditions

2011-11-23T08:20:00.001-05:00

From Teeth to Turkey: Delta Dental’s Uses for Twisting Dental Floss into Thanksgiving Traditions

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food and…floss. Though dental floss is widely known as an essential product for keeping teeth and gums healthy, many have never put this simple tool to work in the kitchen. It has many uses. Try these tips from Delta Dental of Michigan for using floss to help prepare the perfect Thanksgiving dinner:

Tie it up!

Floss is perfect to truss up turkey or chicken. It won’t break or stretch as easily as cooking string, and when it’s time to carve the bird, it slips out without sticking. Floss also can be great for tying together bundles of fresh herbs to use in a roasting pan.

Cut the cake!

Floss is an easy and safe way to slice a cake or pie. Simply hold a piece taut (just like when flossing your teeth), and use a back and forth motion to slice through. This is especially good for sticky frosting since toppings stick to cake instead of the floss.

Baking sheet magic!

Easily cut refrigerated dough using taut floss. Remove baked goods without crumbling by sliding floss between them and the baking sheet.

“You can never have too much floss around the house,” said Ari Adler, communications administrator for Delta Dental of Michigan. “It’s not just for teeth and gums anymore.”

Post Credits: http://oaklandcountymoms.com/reviews/solutions/1566-tips-for-twisting-floss-into-thanksgiving-traditions

5 Thanksgiving Dental Tips

2011-11-22T10:18:00.002-05:00

Many a man, woman, and child cracks a tooth over the holiday thinking their teeth are made of steel. Squirrels were made for that, not humans. Truth is, under that hard enamel shell is a very sensitive nerve running through a root surrounded by soft living tissue. Crack the shell, and I'm not talking about the nut, and welcome pain. Yes, cracking a tooth is an intensely painful experience resulting in the urgent need for a root canal and crown. Be smart, use a nutcracker!

No explanation really needed, right?

Skip the caramel popcorn balls... crack the cusp of a tooth, crack a molar to the root - there is no dental challenge too hard for a caramelized popcorn ball.

The single greatest cause of dental decay is food (usually sugar) left on or around the tooth. Brushing and flossing is an obvious solution, it removes excess food and cleans the surface of the tooth. But who remembers to bring their toothbrush and dental floss to a Thanksgiving dinner party, other than dentists. You do! :)

We know, it's not Christmas yet, but the day after Thanksgiving someone will bring out candy canes and start decorating your Christmas tree. Don't give in to the temptation to bite down on that candy cane.

Post credits: http://www.westsomervilledental.com/blog/?Tag=thanksgiving%20dental%20tips

Meet the Dentist! - Dr. Vonnahme

2011-11-21T10:00:00.002-05:00

Meet Dr. Vonnahme!

Doctor's Full Name: Gwinn Vonnahme

Hometown: Terre Haute, IN

Undergraduate Education: Indiana University Southeast and Indiana State University

Dental School: University of Louisville

Dental Specialties: General dentistry, GP Residency, Laser Certified, Invisilign, Cosmetic Dentistry

Family: Husband, Larin; 2 girls, Olivia & Madesyn; 1 boy, Blake.

Pets: Cat and 2 hamsters.

Favorite Toothpaste: Crest

Manual or Power Brush: Power

Favorite Food: Spicy food!

Favorite Vacation Spot: No favorites - love exploring new places

Favorite Hobbies: Anything that involves playing kids. We love being outdoors, riding horses, going on adventures, making crafts, playing games, singing, anything to make great memories.

Funniest/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

We always love playing jokes on each other at our office. I am usually the worst culprit. A new person came to our office and I was examining his teeth. He became very quite and when I least expected it he raised up slightly and yelled "boo!" I was taken so off guard I screamed and slid the chair across the floor a foot or so. I was so impressed with his success of getting me I had no choice but to offer up major high fives and we all had a good laugh!

Anything else you want our patients to know about you!:

I love visiting with the children who come to our office. We try to keep things fun. One little girl was so excited that she learned how to do a handstand. I was so excited for her that I had to see her accomplishment. So, the deal was if she did a handstand, I would too. I stayed true to my word and as my coworkers all paused to watch, I did a handstand in the hall! Coming to our office is an adventure - I love what I do!

Gum Contouring

2011-11-16T11:29:00.000-05:00

Before and After Gum Contouring Surgery

If your gums rest too low or too high on your teeth and you are unhappy with your smile, you may be a candidate for gum contouring surgery. Also called gum reshaping or tissue sculpting, this cosmetic dental procedure can even out an uneven gum line and give you a smile you can be proud of.

What causes uneven gums?
Gums that cover a large portion of your teeth can make your teeth look small. This may be the result of:

genetics
a particular health problem, or
taking certain prescription drugs

Gums that are too high and make your teeth appear long are often caused by:

Gum recession

...a condition in which gum tissue pulls back from a tooth and exposes the tooth's root. Not only can gum recession make your teeth look long, it can lead to serious dental problems, such as decay and tooth loss.

Gum recession may also be a sign of periodontal disease.

Gum Contouring Surgery: Is it necessary?
Gum contouring alone is considered a cosmetic procedure. Most of the time it is not medically necessary. Most people have their gums reshaped to improve the appearance of their smile. However, some people undergo gum contouring surgery as part of other necessary periodontal procedures, such as crown lengthening, pocket reduction, and regenerative procedures.

What type of doctors perform gum contouring?
Many general dentists and periodontists (gum specialists) can perform the gum contouring procedure

How much does it cost?
The cost of gum contouring depends on the extent of the work being done. Talk to your dentist about the cost based on your individual needs. Dental insurance does not typically cover gum contouring for cosmetic purposes.

What to expect.
Gum contouring surgery is performed in the dentist's office. Currently, dentists use scalpels, lasers, and radiosurgery to perform the gum contouring procedure.

Before surgery, your doctor should go over what he or she will be doing during the procedure. Often, dentists will use a pen and draw a line to mark the new gum line. That way, you can see exactly how much gum will be removed or how the gum line will be reshaped.

A local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area. Sometimes, bone at the front of the tooth's root must also be removed during gum contouring to get the best long-term results.

Recovery
The day of surgery, you should rest and limit your activities. It may take a few days or weeks for your gums to heal completely. Your dentist will give you specific directions about what you need to do to aid the recovery process. Here are some general tips to get you through the recovery period:

Ease pain by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as Tylenol or Advil, as directed by your dentist. Do not take aspirin, which can cause bleeding.
Eat soft, cool foods, such as eggs, pasta, yogurt, cottage cheese, soft vegetables, and ice cream, for the first few days after surgery. Avoid spicy foods and anything with seeds until your gums have healed completely.
Follow your dentist's directions on when and how to brush your teeth during the healing process.

The Risks
No surgery is without risks. The risks associated with gum contouring include:

Allergic reaction to the anesthetic
Gum swelling
Gum bleeding

Post credits: http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/gum-contouring-procedure, http://www.lehighvalleycosmetic-implantdentistry.com/enlarge_gumreshaping1.html

MEET THE DENTIST! - Dr. Pape

2011-11-14T11:31:00.003-05:00

Meet Doctor Pape!

Full Name: Selena Nurmi-Pape

Hometown:

Kirkland, Washington

Undergraduate Education:

Stanford '96 - BS & University of Washington '96 BS

Dental School:

The Ohio State University - Go Buckeyes!

Dental Specialties:

COSMETIC DENTISTRY!

Not sure what cosmetic dentistry is?

Tooth whitening
Veneers
Bonding
Implants
Bridges
Tooth Contouring and Reshaping
Dentures
Dental Fillings
Crowns
Caps
...and more! Call the Prospect office today (502-228-2709) to learn more and ask any questions, or REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT. Dr. Pape would love to help you with all of your cosmetic dental needs!

Family:

I am married to my husband, Rich. I have a 7 year old daughter, Sarah and a 4 year old son, James.

Pets:

I have 2 horses, Jack and Charlotte, and 1 dog named Kelly.

Favorite Toothpaste:

Colgate

Manual or Power Brush:

Power - Rotadent only!

Favorite Food:

Steak, veggies and occasionally one of Mortenson's freshly baked cookies! :)

Favorite Vacation Spot:

France, California and Washington State.

Favorite Hobbies:

I love to ride my horses for fun and competitively. I also love to run and spend time with my family.

Funnies/Most Memorable and/or Most Interesting Moment Experienced in Dentistry:

One of my patients has a crush on me and every time he comes in he asks me out on a date. Of course I decline being married!

Anything else you want to share!

I would love to someday ride for the U.S. Equestrian Team...hopefully in the Olympics!

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

2011-11-11T12:34:00.000-05:00

Festival of Trees & Lights, the RODEO, Fun at the Speed Art Museum, and A Christmas Story at the Actor's Theatre!

Festival of Trees & Lights

Join us for the 22nd annual Festival of Trees & Lights! Hosted by the Children's Hospital Foundation, hundreds of volunteers design and decorate Christmas trees, wreaths and hand crafted holiday items - all of which are for sale to benefit the Kosair Children's Hospital trauma program. Learn more about the trauma program as well as what's happening at the festival.

This year’s Festival of Trees & Lights will benefit the region’s only pediatric trauma center at Kosair Children’s Hospital. The children’s hospital is the region’s only full-service, free-standing pediatric care facility dedicated exclusively to caring for children, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. By attending and supporting the Festival of Trees & Lights, you are helping fund a $7 million initiative to expand the hospital’s trauma program by providing new emergency and surgical equipment, improvements to the helipad and specialty care in general pediatric surgery, orthopaedics, neurosurgery and maxillofacial treatment of traumatic head, neck and facial injuries.

November 11–13
Louisville Slugger Field
401 E. Main St.
kosairchildrens.com/FestivalofTreesLights
502-629-8060
$5

America has always idolized its cowboys and cowgirls. These stars of the West are celebrated for their bravery and skill, and receive admiration from people all over the world. The North American Championship Rodeo brings real-life cowboys and girls center-stage in November at Freedom Hall for three nights of roping, riding, racing and wrestling.

eld in conjunction with the North American International Livestock Exposition, it features several rodeo classics such as bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, team roping, women’s barrel racing, steer wrestling, cattle tie-down, and bull riding. Several fan-favorites will be returning for this year’s rodeo including announcer Roger Mooney, Rockin’ Rodeo Clown Robbie Hodges, and Equine Extremist and entertainer Tommie Turvey, who will wow crowds with comedic tricks with his horse, PokerJoe. The rodeo features riders from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association circuit competing for more than $80,000 worth of prizes, the second largest amount of money for a circuit championship, and a Regional Champion title. The circuit includes riders from the nine-state region of Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio and Wisconsin.

November 10-12
Kentucky Exposition Center
937 Philips Lane
kyexpo.org
502-367-5180
Adult Ticket: Thursday: $20, reserved, Friday: $30, reserved, Saturday: $32, reserved. Child Ticket*: $10 per child each night *Available for children 12 and younger.

Art Sparks Family Studio: Jugs and Jars, not the Usual Crockery!

Sculpt, squish and squeeze in this polymer clay studio! Kentucky Antiques from the Noe Collection: A Gift to the Commonwealth features crockery, jugs and jars that were very useful containers in their time. Create one of your own vessels from clay with local artist Martin Edlin. Drop in any time.

Oct. 12, 12–3 p.m.
The Speed Art Museum
2035 S. Third St.
info@speedmuseum.org
502-634.2700
Free for members. Adults, $10. Senior (65+), $8. Child (3-17), $5.

A Christmas Story

Join Ralphie once again as he campaigns for a Red Ryder BB Gun amid seasonal mayhem and family shenanigans.

Nov. 8–27
Actors Theatre of Louisville
316 W. Main St.
actorstheatre.org
502-584-1205
Tickets start at $24

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Info from Louisville.com

Do you suffer from migraines? Your dentist can help!

2011-11-07T11:01:00.001-05:00

Migraines & Dental Visits & the NTI Device

More than 40 million Americans suffer from migraine headaches and many sufferers don't know that a visit to the dentist may be the best way to treat a migraine.

Migraines are a major problem because they make people unable to function and accomplish the most basic of tasks. Medication helps but it doesn't completely eradicate the problem.

That's why dentists have seen an increase in the number of patients visiting them with bruxism symptoms. Migraines can sometimes stem from teeth grinding because the act of the teeth clenching adds unnecessary pressure to the jawbone and other facial structures.

It's possible for bruxism to be cured by wearing specially made devices like gums shields. This way there will be no contact between tooth surfaces while the person is sleeping.

Although many people never experience migraines around 75 % of people encounter some type of bruxism in their life. Bruxism may also develop if a person is dealing with various types of stress.

Regular dental visits can curb problems like bruxism and can help in the treatment of migraines.

NTI Dental Device

Easily fit, involves no surgery, and has no risk of side effects compared to pharmaceutical migraine treatments.

Ask your dentist about the NTI device! The NTI device is a small "clip-like" device that is worn at night. The device keeps your teeth from touching, and therefore helps to suppress tension from grinding or clenching your teeth in the night that may cause migraines.

Watch this video to learn all about how the NTI Device can help in the treatment of migraines.

http://www.headacheprevention.com/

Post Credits: http://www.dentistrytoday.com/todays-dental-news/6433-dental-trip-could-help-migraines; http://www.eastberlinsmiles.com/nti_dentist_east_berlin_pa.html;

Mortenson Ranked 31st in Louisville's 50, Fastest Growing Companies!

2011-11-04T12:00:00.002-04:00

We are so excited to share with you that Mortenson Family Dental was named as one of Business First's Fast 50! Business First's annual recognition of the 50 fastest-growing companies in the Greater Louisivlle Area boasts companies from a variety of industries.

Dr. Wayne with his Fast 50 award.

Fast 50 companies must be privately owned and be headquartered in Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Meade, Nelson, Oldham, Shelby, Spencer or Trimble counties in Kentucky, or Clark, Floyd, Harrison or Washington counties in Indiana. They must have a 3-year operating sales history and an average of $1 million in annual revenue for their 3 most recent fiscal years. The 50 companies with the biggest percentage of revenue growth over the last 2 years make the list.

Below are the questions and Dr. Wayne Mortenson's responses that were published in the Business First: Fast 50 edition. Dr. Wayne started the very first Mortenson Family Dental office in 1979 in Middletown, KY.

What's the best thing that has occurred at your company recently?
"Mortenson Family Dental acquired none practices in the Savannah, GA and Hilton Head, SC areas."

What's your news?
"We are acquiring practices in Iowan, Alabama and Louisiana. These acquisitions will add $18 million in annual revenue. There are 17 dentists, 40 hygienists, 42 dental assistants and 38 business-related employees involved in these transactions."

Why do you think your company has grown so fast?
"Mortenson's rapid growth has been attributable to our leadership team creating outstanding patient outcomes and experience that has generated a high level of referral and new patient flow."

What strategic steps have you taken to grow in a sluggish economy?
"The company has focused on pediatric dentistry and has increased evening and Saturday hours to make appointment times more convenient for patients. Educational efforts focused on training new employees and improving patient service."

How is your company different fro your competitors?
"Mortenson is a regional group practice that is owned and operated by its doctor and employee shareholders."

Have you hired employees in the last year?
"Yes, 55 new employees in 2010 and 100 new employees in 2011. in human resources and as dental hygienists, dentists, administrative personnel and dental assistants"

What are the biggest challenges for your company in the next 12 months?
"Training and developing employees quickly enough to staff our growth opportunities"

Describe your company's corporate culture.
"Family. Supportive. Innovative. Appreciative. Respectful."

We want to thank all of our amazing patients, friends, and fans for being such a valuable part of our growth and success!

We appreciate you!

Your Weekend Fun from Mortenson!

2011-11-04T10:00:00.000-04:00

Breeders' Cup 2011

The Breeders’ Cup World Championships consist of 15 Championship races with purses and awards for the two days totaling $26 million. In addition to the races, Friday features The Zenyatta Celebration, Fascinator and Fedora Fashion Event, $10K Fan Payday Sweepstakes, and Free Ride Promotion.

Racing start at Churchill Downs at 2 p.m. Friday and 12:05 p.m. Saturday, with Breeders' Cup races going from 4:10–7:30 p.m. on Friday and 1:20–7:35 p.m. on Saturday.

Nov. 4–5

Churchill Downs

700 Central Ave

bcwc11.com

Tickets start at $10

877-849-4287

The Louisville Artisans Guild Holiday Showcase

The Holiday Showcase is a venue that allows our juried artists an opportunity to sell and showcase their artwork. We will have 36 juried artists from Louisville selling their handmade goods at this unique show. The show dates are Saturday, November 5 and Sunday, November 6 from 10 am to 4 pm daily and is located at the Highland's American Legion Post. There will be live music and a raffle for free artist products! Come get your holiday shopping started!

Oct. 5–6

The Highland American Legion Post

2919 Bardstown Road

Free

Straight No Chaser

Straight No Chaser returns after their huge 2009 performance to thrill you with some of the coolest, hottest a cappella ever. Their new release With a Twist includes covers of classics like Soft Cell's "Tainted Love," Queen's "You’re My Best Friend," Coldplay's "Fix You" and the Red Hot Chili Peppers' "Under the Bridge," with that unique blend of soul and humor that have made SNC such a hit!

Nov. 6, 7 p.m.

Whitney Hall- Kentucky Center

501 W. Main St.

kentuckycenter.org

502-584-7777

Tickets start at $20

Have an outstanding weekend!

Your HALLOWEEN FUN From Mortenson!

2011-10-28T11:15:00.002-04:00

TRUCKtoberfest

Taste the most unique street food festival in Louisville!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28TH 5pm -9pm

Start the Halloween weekend off right with some live music and Louisville's best street food vendors all in one spot. * San Diego Sandwich Works * Lil Cheesers * Red's Comfort Foods * Holy Smokes Barbeque * The Dessert Truck * El Rumbon (cuban) * Holy Mole Tacos. These seven street food vendors will be serving up whatever you are craving.

Location: The Patio at Clay Commons Garage (Directly behind Henry Clay building)

324 W. Chestnut St

FREE!

Saturday - Sunday, October 29-30, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FREE for members; FREE with paid exhibit admission for non-members

Fill your day with science tricks and treats when you venture into a world of slimy, gooey, creepy and gross. See what happens when we electrify a pickle, face the not-so-terrifying Wheel of Dares, and discover explosive new ways to smash a pumpkin.

Activities include making wearable scabs and blisters, slime making, mummifying apples, giant spider webs, touchable organs and more!

All details here.

Join Northeast Christian Church on Saturday for KidabaLOU!

Live music, trunk-or-treating inside and out, FREE FOOD, Lots and lots of candy for the kids, inflatable

jumps, contests, giveaways and much more! ALL FREE!

Saturday October 29th 7-10 PM

9900 Brownsboro Rd. 40241

Flame Run: Blow your own GLASS PUMPKIN!

Flame Run Gallery

828 E. Market St. 40206

10:30 AM - 3:30 PM

To blow your own glass pumpkin, it takes about 15-20 minutes and costs $50!

Flame RUn artist Jake Pfeifer is taking appointments from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays until November 11th. Participants can choose up to 3 colors from eight color selections.

Trick-Or-Treat with Churchill Charlie on Opening Day this Sunday!

Live racing returns to the twin spires on Sunday, October 30, as Churchill Downs opens its fall meet. A lot will be going on at the Downs on Sunday to keep adult and child alike entertained.

For the kids, Churchill Downs’ mascot, Churchill Charlie, will be on hand to lead them on a trick-or-treat parade throughout the Downs. "Boo Stations" will be set up throughout the route with tricks and treats for all the kids. Costumes are strongly suggested, but not required to participate. Just register your child in the Churchill Downs gift shop located near Gate 17 between 11:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. and pick up your trick-or-treat bag. Meet back at Gate 17 at 3:00 p.m. to line up and start the trick-or-treat parade. Pay attention after the trick-or-treating in case the kids are invited into the winner’s circle for a group photo as they were last year.

All details here!

Have a great weekend!

A Dentist's Guide to Halloween

2011-10-26T13:11:00.000-04:00

We want to share the *Dentist's Guide to Halloween* from Coast Dental with you!
October 18, 2011 by Beth Gaddis

It's almost Halloween! Costume stores are springing up, yards are decorated with ghoulish décor, and our day of sweet indulgence without guilt is almost here. Everywhere you look, there's your favorite candy or chocolate wrapped in scary yet appealing packaging. What! It’s Halloween.

Well, to all the sweet tooth Halloween lovers -both adults and kids- here are some practical tips from a Dentist who shares your love for all things sweet.

Sort the candy. When you are raiding your five-year-old's candy bag at 2 in the morning, separate the stack into two piles.

First Pile: The taffy, the caramels, the gummy bears, anything that is sticky, chewy or sour
Second Pile: All of the other candy.

Avoid the first pile. Dental cavities have a proven cause-and-effect relationship with extended exposure to sugary or sour substances. Oral bacteria thrives in this environment and converts these substances to acid that can, in turn, lead to cavities.
Watch your family’s consumption of these sweet treats during this season. A great tip is to leave the candy wrappers in a visible area so that you remember how many of these ghoulish confections you’ve eaten.
Chew sugar-free gum to help you ration your sweet intake. Ingredients like Xylitol and Sorbitol, low calorie sweeteners found in some gum, can actually be beneficial to your oral health. Research has shown that these sweeteners starve destructive bacteria, allowing your mouth to replenish minerals to your teeth. Get advice from your Dentist on the frequency and amount recommended.
Talk to your kids about oral health. This is a great time to reinforce the twice-a-day brushing routine and the daily 'oh-so-dreaded flossing' regime. Always remember, children will mostly do as they see. The most ideal scenario would be to brush after the consumption of candy. If that’s not possible, then encourage your child to eat the candy within a few minutes instead of snacking throughout the day, and then wash away some of the sugar by drinking a glass of water. And remember, Halloween is a great time to call your dentist and get the family scheduled for a check-up!

In the words of Robert Louis Stevenson, "There is only one difference between a long life and a good dinner; that in the dinner, the sweets come last."

Enjoy the sweets in moderation and have fun this Halloween!

Post Credits:Coast Dental

Missing Regular Dental Visits Is Very Expensive For Patients

2011-10-18T10:19:00.000-04:00

Many people think that skipping their regular dental check-ups will save them money in the long-run. In reality, it is costing patients even more money to fix the deeper problems that develop as a result of missed dental check-ups. Read this article from Dental Health Magazine and learn more about why it saves you to take yourself and your family to the dentist regularly.

August 3rd, 2011
By Dental Health Magazine staff

You would think that if you don’t go for those regular checkups at your dentist, you save money. Actually, you are wrong because not going to the dentist’s regularly results in extremely expensive side effects.

Currently, there are millions of Americans who do not respect the appointments with their dentist, either because the lack of proper dental insurance or because they simply cannot afford to pay for the routine dental services.

According to statistics from the Institute of Medicine some 33 million citizens live in areas where they do not have access to sufficient dental services, and there are approximately 5 million children who are not taken to the regular twice per year visits, because the parents cannot afford to pay.

Although many people live with the conception that missing on dental visits will actually help them cut the costs for health related issues, if you don’t see regularly your dentist you will have to take out of your pocket more money in the future.

Several articles written by experts in the field point out that the best way to save money on the dental bills is to actually respect the routine dental care practices. These include regular brushing and flossing, and not missing the checkups with your dentist.

If you are skipping regular dental checkups, all you will manage to do is to turn a minor dental issue such as a cavity into a serious medical problem, such as an advanced infection of the tooth. Prevention is important, and it will cost you way less than having to go through a complicated treatment that might require surgery for example.

By trying to save some money on their dental bills, many people don’t go for the regular checkups, and they end up losing their teeth. Replacing those teeth with dental implants is extremely expensive, so where you went to save $10, you might have to pay even $1,000+ a few years later in order to fix those damages.

The Institute of Medicine also tries to raise the awareness that people who miss their routine dental visits might actually expose themselves to other health complications as well, such as respiratory diseases, diabetes or cardiovascular problems.

Post Credits: http://worldental.org/dental-news/missing-regular-dental-visits-expensive-patients/5007/

HPV Linked Oropharyngeal Cancer Rates Rise Dramatically

2011-10-17T11:01:00.000-04:00

Check out this article below from MedicalNewsToday.com

HPV Linked Oropharyngeal Cancer Rates Rise Dramatically

In the 1980s just over 16% of patients with oropharyngeal cancers tested positive to HPV, compared to over 70% during the last decade, researchers reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. The authors add that if the rise in incidence continues at its present pace, the incidence of oropharyngeal cancers will overtake that of cervical cancer.

What is HPV?

HPV stands for human papillomavirus

Oropharyngeal cancer is cancer which develops in the tissue of the oropharynx, the middle part of the throat, including the base of the tongue, tonsils, the soft palate, and the walls of the pharynx.

According to prior studies, oropharyngeal cancers can be divided into:

HPV-negative cancers - which are usually linked to alcohol and tobacco use
HPV-positive cancers - which are associated with some types of HPV, a sexually transmitted virus. Those with this type of oropharyngeal cancer are usually younger than HPV-negative cancer patients.

"Patients generally have better survival rates with this type of cancer."

Said senior author Maura Gillison, MD, PhD, professor of medicine and Jeg Coughlin Chair of Cancer Research at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, wrote:

"We used to think of oropharyngeal cancer as one cancer, and now we know the disease is comprised of two biologically and epidemiologically distinct cancers. This new understanding will increasingly enable us to improve and better personalize care for patients with each form of the disease."

The team had previously demonstrated that survival rates and incidence for oropharyngeal cancers rose considerably in America between 1973 and 2004, while incidence rates for other cancers of the head and neck, such as oral cavity, dropped during the same period.

They tested 271 archived oropharynx cancer tissue samples from 5,755 patients for HPV infections. The samples came from three registries in Los Angeles, Iowa and Hawaii that had been collected between 1984 and 2004.

Using several molecular assays they demonstrated that the percentage of oropharyngeal cancers that were HPV-positive rose considerably during that period, from 16.3% between 1984 and 1989 to 72.7% between 200 and 2004.

In 1988, there were 0.8 cases of HPV-positive cancers per 100,000 people, compared to 2.6 in 2004 - a 225% increase. As smoking rates during the same period had dropped, HPV-negative oropharyngeal cancer rates dropped by 50%.

By 2020, HPV-positive oropharyngeal cancers will be the major form of cancer for the head and neck, and the leading HPV-linked cancer, overtaking cervical cancer if current trends continue, the authors added.

Post credits: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/235446.php

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

2011-10-14T10:14:00.000-04:00

FRIDAY

Walking Tour of Whiskey Row & Historic East Main

Join us on a leisurely walking tour of Louisville’s famous Whiskey Row and Historic East Main Street. Beginning at the Cressman Gallery in the Traughber Public Parking Garage at First and Main, Tom Owen will zig-zag us along Main and Washington Streets through the old Belknap Hardware Company complex, show us the world both above and below the Clark Memorial Bridge, and circle the old Big-4 Railroad Freighthouse (now Slugger Field). This rapidly developing area just above the YUM! Center has experienced abandonment and demolition but stories abound and an emerging future awaits. We will conclude the afternoon with a wine reception at an undisclosed and mysterious venue. The walking tour will begin at 3:00 p.m. at the Cressman Garage. There is a charge of $25 for members ($30 for non-members). You may reserve your place by visiting www.filsonhistorical.org or by calling The Filson at (502) 635-5083. Reservations are required.

Oct. 14, 2011, 3–5 p.m.
Cressman Gallery
First and Main, Traughber Parking Garage
filsonhistorical.org/programs-and-publications/lectures-and-events.aspx
502-635-5083
$25 for Filson members, $30 for non-members

Check's Cafe Live Music Fridays

This Friday, October 14th from 8:00 PM until Midnight we will be featuring Moondance for your listening pleasure and, as always, this is a free show. Come make yourself at home and enjoy some live music on this Fall evening.

Oct. 14, 8 p.m.
Check's Cafe
1101 East Burnett Ave
facebook.com/pages/Checks-Cafe/141078215919011
502-637-9515
Free

SATURDAY

“Civil War: My Brother, My Enemy” Exhibit

The War Between the States pitted brother against brother. Nowhere was this division more apparent than in the border state of Kentucky— where family lines were often the battle lines. The Frazier History Museum is hosting an original exhibition, “Civil War: My Brother, My Enemy,” in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War.

Oct. 15–April 8
Frazier History Museum
829 W. Main St.
fraziermuseum.org
502-753-5663
General museum admission

ColorFest Fall Festival at Bernheim Arboretum

Bernheim’s annual ColorFest has affordable family fun surrounded by fall’s spectacular beauty with great food, Kentucky crafts, the Scarecrow Jubilee and more. Enjoy the crisp fall beauty and great nature-related activities for kids, refreshments, music and fun for all. You will find enlightening and entertaining hands-on nature activities, distinctive crafts by Kentucky artists, pumpkin painting, a hay maze and much more. Learn about bees, purple martins and other wildlife; relax and enjoy the striking colors of fall on a hayride – bring family and friends and create your own perfect day at ColorFest.

Oct. 15–16
Bernheim
2499 Clermont Road
Clermont, KY 40110
bernheim.org
502-955-8512
Free event with regular admission to Bernheim

SUNDAY

Asiatique Fall Bubbles Brunch

Executive Chef P S Looi and Pabs Sembillo, co-owners of Asiatique restaurant announce plans for the Fall Bubbles Brunch, Sunday, October 16, 2011, with seating times of 1:00 pm, 2:00 pm, and 3:00 pm. “The Bubbles Brunch has become a favorite with our customers,” announced Pabs Sembillo, co-owner. “We have expanded to three separate seating times to accommodate its popularity.”

This four-course tribute to champagne and sparkling wines begins with a squash soup - roasted butternut squash + yellow curry soup with roasted duck breast paired with Lamarca Prosecco. A second course of citrus and crawfish salad - citrus and pepper marinated crawfish tail with bean medley and coconut vinaigrette paired with Jean-Louis Blanc de Blancs. The third course will be roasted quail - roasted chorizo stuffed quail with yellow corn risotto, apple cider + caraway reduction paired with Veuve Du Vernay Brut Rose. The fourth course of pumpkin panna cotta - Chinese 5 spice pumpkin panocotta with ginger bread and Mandarin orange reduction paired with Beni Di Batasiolo Bosc DLa Rei Moscato. The cost is $35 per person, plus tax and gratuity. Reservations may be made by calling (502) 451-2749.

Oct. 16, 1–5 p.m.
Asiatique
Highlands - Between Maryland & Speed
1767 Bardstown Road
asiatiquerestaurant.com
502-451-2749
$35 per person, plus tax and gratuity

Post Credits: The Louisville.com Weekender

HAVE A WONDERFUL WEEKEND!!

October - National Dental Hygiene Month!

2011-10-13T11:09:00.000-04:00

It's National Dental Hygiene Month!

National Dental Hygiene Month is sponsored by Wrigley's

That seems funny, doesn't it? But, in actuality, chewing sugar-free gum after eating is clinically proven to be an important part of good oral health!

Chewing sugar-free gum stimulates the most important natural defense against tooth decay - saliva - which, in turn helps fight cavities, neutralize plaque acids, remineralize enamel to strengthen teeth and wash away food particles.

Research from around the world has now shown conclusively that chewing sugar-free gum has many oral health benefits. When chewing is incorporated into the daily oral health care routine, especially after eating and drinking, it positively affects oral health.

Many people don't know about the scientific evidence supporting the use of sugar-free gum. Here are the hard facts:

Chewing ORBIT sugar-free gum stimulates the production of saliva to help wash away food debris and neutralize plaque acid from the mouth
Chewing ORBIT sugar-free gum can help prevent tooth decay by up to 40%
Chewing sugar-free gum increases the production of saliva by up to 10 times the resting rate
Chewing ORBIT sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating or drinking can help to neutralize plaque acid
Chewing ORBIT sugar-free gum stimulates saliva to help replace lost minerals after an acid attack
The use of sugar-free chewing gum has been associated using a reduction from the quantity and development of plaque.

Post Credits:
http://betteroralhealth.info/orbit_us/professional-area/research/sugarfee-gum/facts/index.htm
http://www.adha.org/ndhm/index.html

Halloween Candy Sweet Swap!

2011-10-12T10:37:00.000-04:00

We are teaming up with our friends at BracesBracesBraces and Kid's Dentistree for our first *Sweet Swap!*

Weekend of October 7-9

2011-10-07T14:39:00.000-04:00

Free Friday Night at the Speed Museum

Be our guest for the evening! Enjoy FREE admission to the Museum's permanent collection and the award winning Art Sparks Interactive Family gallery on the First Friday of the month from 5-9 PM.

Discover Kentucky Antiques from the Noe Collection: A Gift to the Commonwealth, an exhibition of Kentucky art recently given to the Speed!

October 7th, 5-9PM

The Speed Art Museum

2035 S. Third Street

502-634-2700

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

Step back in time to relive all that is grand and glorious about childhood in a magical new adaptation of of Mark Twain's classic adventure.

Actor's Theatre of Louisville

October 7th, 8-10PM (Show runs through October 29th)

316 W. Main Street

502-584-1205

Susan G. Komen 16th Annual Race For the Cure!

5k, 10k & 1 Mile Family Fun Walk

Saturday October 8th, Waterfront Park

komenlouisville.org for online registration

Prices range from $15 for youth (8th grade and below) to $35 for Adult 10k free. Sleep In registration is $35 and includes the cost to mail the t-shirts directly to participants.

Florence Location: Patient Appreciation Day!

2011-10-05T14:10:00.000-04:00

Mortenson Family Dental's Florence Patients are cordially invited to...

PATIENT APPRECIATION DAY!

This Saturday

OCTOBER 8th

11 AM - 3 PM

7033 Burlington Pike, Suite 1

WE WILL BE GIVING AWAY:

Bengals vs. Colts Tickets

Family Four Pack to Kings Island

Sonicare Toothbrush Basket

Free Whitening

There will be entertainment from a live band, the Tooth Fairy will be making a visit, and there will be food and games for everyone!

Myths about Diabetes and Dental Care

2011-10-05T09:30:00.003-04:00

This info will help you understand the myths and the facts

of diabetes and dental care!

Are people with diabetes at greater risk for dental cavities?
There are two schools of thought on this topic. One school believes that high levels of sugar in the saliva of people with uncontrolled diabetes helps bacteria thrive, which leads to the development of cavities as well as sets the stage for gum disease. Also, the fact that diabetic patients tend to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day may mean there is a greater chance for bacteria to grow and lead to the development of cavities. The other school of thought is that because people with diabetes are more knowledgeable about what they eat and the need to closely monitor their sugar intake, they don't eat many foods that contain cavity-causing sugar.

The fact is that people whose diabetes is well controlled have no more tooth decay or periodontal disease than persons without diabetes. Good oral hygiene and maintenance of blood sugar within the accepted range are the best protections against cavity formation and periodontal disease.

I've heard that people with diabetes can expect to loose their teeth more often and sooner than people without diabetes. Is this true?

Many factors play a role in the loss of teeth in people with diabetes. First, people with uncontrolled diabetes are more prone to the development of gingivitis and periodontal disease. If the infection persists, it can spread to the underlying bone that anchors the teeth. Complicating this situation is the fact that infections don't resolve as quickly in people with diabetes.

The good news for people with diabetes is that by practicing good dental care and oral hygiene habits -- brushing at least twice daily (or preferably after every meal) with a fluoride-containing toothpaste and flossing daily -- and by keeping blood sugar levels under control, the potential for infection from periodontal disease will be greatly reduced or eliminated as will the risk of tooth loss.

If I need oral surgery, am I more at risk for problems?
With close medical care and self care that keeps blood sugar as close to normal as possible and good personal and professional dental care, problems after surgery are no more likely in people with diabetes than in those without the disease.

Post credit: WebMD.com

Dental Care Tips for People With Diabetes

2011-10-04T11:14:00.000-04:00

Since people with diabetes are more prone to conditions that may harm their oral health, it's essential to follow good dental care practices and to pay special attention to any changes in your oral health and to seek a prompt dental consultation if such changes occur.

Tips to consider:

Keep your blood sugar as close to normal as possible.
At each dental care visit, tell your dentist about the status of your diabetes. For instance, he or she may want to know your HgA1C level to determine how well controlled your diabetes is (good control is indicated by a level under 7%). If you've had a hypoglycemic episode in the past (low blood sugar, also called an insulin reaction), you are at increased risk to have another one. Tell your dentist when your last episode was, how frequently such episodes occur, and when you took your last dose of insulin, if you take it.
See your diabetes doctor before scheduling treatment for periodontal disease. Ask your doctor to talk to your dentist or periodontist about your overall medical condition before any dental treatment is performed. If oral surgery is planned, your doctor or dentist will tell you if you need to take any presurgical antibiotics or need to change your meal schedule or the timing and dosage of your insulin, if you take it.
Make sure to give your dentist your diabetes doctor's name and phone number to include on your personal file. This information will then be readily accessible by your dentist should any questions or concerns arise.
Bring your dentist a list of all the names and dosages of all medications you are taking. Your dentist will need to know this information to prescribe medications least likely to interfere with the medications you are already taking if medications are needed. If a major infection is being treated, your insulin dose -- for those taking insulin -- may need to be adjusted. Check with your doctor.
Postpone nonemergency dental care procedures if your blood sugar is not in good control. However, acute infections, such as abscesses, should be treated right away.
Keep in mind that healing may take longer in people with diabetes. Follow your dentist's post-treatment instructions closely.
People with diabetes with orthodontic appliances (such as braces) should contact their orthodontist immediately if a wire or bracket results in a cut to their tongue or mouth.

Post credits: WebMD.com

Dental Care & Diabetes

2011-10-03T10:55:00.004-04:00

Do you have a friend or relative that has diabetes? It's a good idea to talk to them about their dental care as those with diabetes should take extra steps in caring for their teeth and mouth to stay healthy!

Diabetes is a disease that can affect the whole body, including your mouth. Dental care is particularly important for people with diabetes because they face a higher than normal risk of oral health problems due to poorly controlled blood sugars. The less well controlled the blood sugar, the more likely oral health problems will arise. This is because uncontrolled diabetes impairs white blood cells, which are the body's main defense against bacterial infections that can occur in the mouth.

What Dental Problems Are People With Diabetes at Higher Risk For?

Dry mouth. Dry mouth can further lead to soreness, ulcers, infections, and tooth decay.
Gum inflammation (gingivitis and periodontitis). Besides impairing white blood cells, another complication of diabetes is that it causes blood vessels to thicken, which slows the flow of nutrients to and waste products from body tissues, including the mouth. When this combination of events happens, the body's ability to fight infections is reduced. Since periodontal disease is a bacterial infection, diabetics with uncontrolled disease may experience more frequent and more severe gum disease.
Poor healing of oral tissues.
Thrush. People with diabetes who frequently take antibiotics to fight various infections are especially prone to developing a fungal infection of the mouth and tongue. The fungus thrives on the high levels of sugar in the saliva of people with uncontrolled diabetes.
Burning mouth and/or tongue. This condition is caused by the presence of thrush.

People with diabetes who smoke are at even a higher risk -- up to 20 times more likely than nonsmokers -- for the development of thrush and periodontal disease. Smoking also seems to impair blood flow to the gums -- which may affect wound healing in this tissue area.

Tomorrow we will discuss Dental Care Tips For People With Diabetes and Wednesday we'll discuss Myths about Diabetes and Dental Care.

Post credits: www.webmd.com

Weekend FUN from Mortenson!

2011-09-30T09:00:00.001-04:00

Weekend at a glance: Here are few fun events going on in Louisville this weekend! The flea market is in town and so are some pretty, pretty cars for the Concours d'Elegance Car Show! Get in the Halloween spirit and participate in Danger Run! Check out some designer doghouses at Barkitecture, too! Have a WONDERFUL weekend, friends! :)

Kentucky Flea Market

Dates: 09/30/2011 - 10/02/2011
Times: Friday Noon - 7, Saturday 10-7, Sunday 11-5.

Location: Kentucky Expo Center937 Phillips Lane Louisville, Kentucky 40209

Over 700 booths. Free Admission!
502-456-2244

Concours d'Elegance Car Show
September 30th - October 2nd
Gates open on Sunday at 11 AM for those without cars in the show. Awards ceremony is at 4 PM
All details and ticket information here: http://www.concourslouisville.com/index.htm

The Louisville Concours d’Elegance is a showcase for some of the rarest, most elegant and historic collector cars in the country. The event takes place at one of the most famous sporting venues in the world - Historic Churchill Downs racetrack. It's truly the best in “Horses and Horsepower.”

The benefactor of The Louisville Concours d’ Elegance is Brooklawn Child & Family Services, a non-profit psychiatric treatment center for children who suffer from the horrible affects of abuse, neglect or other severe trauma.

2010 Best In Show 1938 Alfa Romeo 8 C 2900 Touring Spider - Owner: Mr. Ray Scherr of Westlake Village, CA

Danger Run
Louisville Premier Haunted Attraction with 2 Haunted Houses
Sponsored by Lowes Home Improvement

Open Every Friday & Saturday until October 29th 7 PM - 11 PM

The Ultimate Halloween Adventure game including 2 haunted houses, free food, free fangs, and free gas!

The Danger Run is a Halloween game played in your car with your friends. You will get a book of clues which you have to solve to find your way to 2 haunted houses included with your admission. In a way, it is a lot like a scavenger hunt but you are looking for haunts. The object of the game is to complete the course and make as few mistakes as possible. The top 50 groups to get closest to the exact mileage of the course will compete in the Danger Run Finals! Admission also includes free fangs, free food, and if you have 4 or more in your car free gas! It is an entire night of Halloween entertainment unlike any other. For more details and to take a free test drive visit www.dangerrun.com

BARKITECTURE!

Yew Dell has teamed up with some of the most talented builders and architects in the area to unleash this collection of designer doghouses. Scattered around the garden will be a collection of more than a dozen expertly designed and staged doghouses. Dogs welcome at Yew Dell on Sundays during Barkitecture!
Going on now through Halloween
Admission free with regular admission

Yew Dell Botanical Gardens 6220 Old LaGrange Road Crestwood, KY 40014

(502) 241-4788

Cigarette Ads/Packages Must Include Oral Cancer Warnings

2011-09-28T10:07:00.000-04:00

Cigarette ads, packages must include oral cancer warnings, says FDA

By Craig Palmer, ADA News staff

Yuck...

Washington—The Food and Drug Administration will require use of a “cancerous lesion on lip” image in cigarette advertising and packaging for its potential to motivate positive behavioral change, influence youth and young adults in particular and inform the public that cigarettes cause oral cancer.

Flexing its regulatory muscle on the second anniversary of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which was signed into law June 22, 2009, the FDA unveiled nine graphic health warnings to be placed on all cigarette packs, cartons and ads no later than Sept. 22, 2012.

“The nine new health warning statements and the accompanying graphic images selected by FDA convey information that is factual and uncontroversial,” the agency said in the regulatory notice.

The FDA simultaneously announced a public inquiry and request for comments on the public health impact of modified risk tobacco products sold or distributed for use to reduce harm or the risk of tobacco-related disease associated with commercially marketed tobacco products. The FDA scheduled a public forum Aug. 25-26 to obtain information on “the scientific issues associated with assessment and ongoing review of MRTPs.” These include smokeless and other products promoted as alternatives to cigarette smoking.

The Association supported the 2009 tobacco control law, and has advised the FDA on using the law to shape public tobacco policy. “Dentists are the first line of defense in the war against oral cancer and many other tobacco-related diseases,” the Association told the FDA in commenting on tobacco product regulation.
“As a matter of public health, we have become increasingly alarmed by recent attempts to market smokeless tobacco as a healthier (or less harmful) alternative to cigarettes,” the Association’s Oct. 9, 2009 statement said. “Smokeless tobacco is not a healthy alternative to cigarette smoking; both products pose health risks.”

FDA issued the requirement for larger, graphic health warnings for cigarette packages and advertisements in a June 22, 2011 Federal Register document dense with analysis and research rejecting tobacco industry arguments against the proposal and explaining how and why these images and warnings will get public attention and reduce smoking-related disease and death.

An image the FDA describes as “cancerous lesion on lip” will illustrate a “WARNING: Cigarettes cause cancer” statement chosen, the agency said, for scoring high in focus group testing on emotional and cognitive reaction scales and a “difficult to look at” measure.

“First, ‘cancerous lesion on lip’ was the only image among the images proposed for use with this warning statement that had a positive impact on beliefs about the health risks of smoking and secondhand smoke exposure in one of the study samples (adults viewing a hypothetical advertisement),” the FDA said in the regulatory document.

“Furthermore, as is stated in several comments…the selected image ‘cancerous lesion on lip’ is likely to have particular relevance for youth. As explained in some of these comments, the research literature suggests that youth are likely to relate to and be susceptible to cigarette warnings depicting the negative short-term impacts of smoking on their personal appearance, including their lips and teeth.

“Several comments noted that the image could be especially effective with younger audiences and could positively influence such audiences by illustrating how the health effects caused by smoking negatively affect their physical appearance. The comments indicated that adolescents can relate to and will be susceptible to this message.

“We agree with these comments,” the FDA said in responding to the comments on image effectiveness. “It is important to include content in the required warnings that is relevant to youth. The image ‘cancerous lesion on lip’ has the potential to positively impact youth behavior in addition to adult and young adult behavior.”

The FDA disagreed with comments that the image was “too gross” to be effective and that oral cancer was an odd choice of cancers to depict in the graphic warning, noting that “the research literature indicates that images that evoke strong emotional reactions can promote greater awareness and better recollection of the health risks of smoking and can increase the likelihood smokers will reduce their smoking, make an attempt to quit, or quit altogether.

“Furthermore, the choice of cancers depicted in the required warning is appropriate and will help inform the public that cigarettes cause oral cancers and thus increase public awareness of the negative consequences of smoking.”

The National Tobacco Quitline phone number, 1-800-QUIT-NOW, must accompany the nine new warnings.
Information for professionals and the public to assist in tobacco cessation efforts can be found on ADA.org.

Post credit.

"Bleachorexia."

2011-09-27T12:02:00.001-04:00

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, tooth-whitening has also become the most requested type of cosmetic dental service. However, excessive teeth whitening can carry lots of risk and cause painful damage to your teeth. Dentists say a growing number of Americans obsessed with whitening their teeth are using bright smiles to cover up a dark secret: bleachorexia.

Bleachorexics experience a kind of dental dysmorphia, or obsession with their appearance, abusing over-the-counter whitening products to the point that their teeth begin to erode, causing lasting damage.

Why has there been such an increase in bleachorexia? The low price of whitening products - about $40 for a box of brand-name whitening strips - has made it easy for bleach enthusiasts to double up on treatments.What they don't realized immediately, is that there are more health costs involved.

Carbamide peroxide, the whitening agent in bleach, can irritate gums, causing them to bleed and recede.
Over-whitening can also cause teeth to become thin and brittle and can lead to high sensitivity and discoloration as tooth enamel becomes translucent.

In some cases, teeth have to be capped or replaced because of thinning enamel.

That hasn't stopped the tooth-whitening business from become a booming industry. From in-office treatments to at-home kits, Americans spend hundreds of millions of dollars each year on bleaching products.
Still dying to flash those pearly whites? Safe bleaching is possible, experts say.

People looking to brighten up their smile should consult with a dentist first and wait six months between whitening treatments. They should also stick to name brands if using over-the-counter products and stop treatment if they experience any discoloration or sensitivity.

"Bleaching is very effective in moderation and it's safe in moderation," Dr. Jennifer Jablow told ABC News. "It's when you're bleaching all the time, beyond what is recommended - that's when you run into problems."

Post credits.

Oral Piercings May = Oral Problems :-P

2011-09-26T13:29:00.001-04:00

Oral piercings are all part of today's popular form of body art and self-expression. Piercing may seem daring, cool and totally safe, but piercing the tongue, lips, cheeks or uvula (the tiny tissue that hangs at the back of the throat) is not as safe as some would have you believe. Why? The mouth’s moist environment, home to huge amounts of breeding bacteria, is an ideal place for infection.

We know...it makes us cringe, too!

An oral piercing can interfere with speech, chewing or swallowing. That may seem like a mere inconvenience until you consider that it may also cause:

Excessive drooling (something you won’t see in hip fashion magazines!)
Infection, pain and swelling
Chipped or cracked teeth
Injuries to the gums
Damage to fillings
Increased saliva flow
Hypersensitivity to metals
Scar tissue
Nerve damage

These harmful effects can happen during the piercing, soon after, or even long after the procedure.

An infection can quickly become life threatening if it’s not treated promptly. For example, oral piercing carries a potential risk of endocarditis, an inflammation of the heart valves or tissues. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through the piercing site in the mouth and travel to the heart, where it can colonize on heart abnormalities. This is a risk for people with heart conditions and, in the worst of cases, results in death.

After a piercing the tongue may swell. There have been reports of swelling serious enough to block the airway. And it’s very possible to puncture a nerve during a tongue piercing. If this happens, you may experience a numb tongue...nerve damage that is sometimes temporary, but can be permanent. The injured nerve may affect your sense of taste, or how you move your mouth. And damage to the tongue’s blood vessels can cause serious blood loss.

In addition, piercing jewelry can sometimes cause allergic responses to the pierced site. The jewelry can even get in the way of dental care by blocking x-rays.

Don’t pierce on a whim. The piercing will be an added responsibility to your life, requiring constant attention and upkeep. Talk to your dentist for more information.

Post credits.

Tips on Toothpicks! - and a little history, too!

2011-09-22T11:06:00.004-04:00

Toothpicks should be used sparingly as a method of teeth cleaning and should never be considered a substitute for brushing teeth and flossing, says a Chicago dentist.

"Toothpicks should be used only when a toothbrush or floss is not available, for example, when you are in a restaurant and have food trapped between teeth," explains April Grandinetti, D.D.S., a general dentist.

"Toothpicks that are used overzealously can damage tooth enamel, lacerate gums, and even cause a broken tooth in severe cases. People who have bonding or veneers can chip or break them if they aren't careful. Overly aggressive use of toothpicks can severely wear the roots of teeth, especially in cases where gums have pulled away from the teeth and leave teeth with root surfaces exposed, notably in the elderly."

The toothpick, or its equivalent, is used in many countries as the main tool in the battle against tooth decay. Many people use the twigs of trees to clean between their teeth. *Mortenson Family Dental does not suggest this! :)

"Toothpicks have a long history as civilization's primary tooth-cleaning instrument," says Dr. Grandinetti. "The West began to abandon them in the 1700s as the newly created toothbrush gradually became the standard of care for cleaning teeth."

Even the toothpick has some history!

Toothpicks date back to 3,500 BC when the earliest known oral hygiene kit featuring a toothbrush was found at the Ningal Temple in Ur. In China, a curved pendant, made of cast bronze was worn around the neck and used as a toothpick. In 536 BC, the Chinese mandated a law that required the use of the toothpick because their armies suffered from bad breath. In the Old Testament, it is written that "one may take a splinter from the wood lying near him to clean his teeth."

Toothpicks probably had their heyday in the Middle Ages when keeping a toothpick in the mouth all day long was a common habit. In the 17th century, toothpicks were commonly used by the educated classes throughout Europe. In France, for example, toothpicks were served with desserts, usually poked into fruit to be handy following a meal. After they were used, they could be placed behind the ear for future use. Toothpicks have been made of numerous materials through history, including wood, porcupine quill, chicken bone, ivory, gold, silver and steel. Many woods used were aromatic, some containing tannic acid which was thought to help prevent cavities and gum disease.

Today's Toothpicks

Today, most toothpicks in the United States come from "toothpick trees" in Maine. The tree is a white birch which has its trunk cut into thin sheets that are cut again to the thickness and length of toothpicks.

"I can tell when I have a habitual toothpick user in my dental chair," says Dr. Grandinetti. "There are the tell-tale signs of toothpick marks. So use them if you have too, but don't make it a habit. Brush and floss instead."

Check out these 50 uses for a toothpick - that won't irritate your gums! ;)

Post credits.

Dental X-Rays: Benefits & Safety

2011-09-21T10:32:00.000-04:00

Dental radiographs (most often called x-rays) are an important part of your dental care. Along with an oral examination, they provide your dentist with a more complete view of what’s happening in your mouth.

X-rays tend to have a negative stigma because the patient is exposed to radiation. However, it's important to keep in mind that it is a very minimal amount of radiation, and x-rays are taken to benefit you and your overall health!

Benefits of Dental X-Rays

A dental x-ray gives your dentist a picture of your hard tissues (teeth and bones) and the soft tissues that surround your teeth and jawbones. For example, dental x-rays may help your dentist see:

cavities & decay that develops between the teeth or under restorations (fillings)
diseases in the bone
periodontal (gum) disease
infections that develop under your gums
some types of tumors

Dental x-rays can alert your dentist to changes in your hard and soft tissues. In children, x-rays allow the dentist to see how their teeth and jawbones are developing. Like medical x-rays, dental x-rays allow your dentist to evaluate any injuries to your face and mouth. Dental x-rays can help your dentist identify diseases and developmental problems before they become serious health issues. Early detection of an infection or injury also can limit or prevent further damage to other areas of the mouth.

Safety of Dental X-Rays

Some people wonder if dental x-rays are safe because they expose the patient to radiation. Several factors and practices work together to make dental x-rays safe. The amount of radiation used to obtain dental x-ray is very small. For example, bitewing x-rays—two to four images of the back teeth -- expose a patient to about 0.005 millisieverts (mSv) of radiation (a millisievert is a unit of measure). By comparison, because radiation is part of our environment, people in the United States are exposed, on average, to 3.2 mSv every year from background sources of radiation. Dentists follow the ALARA principle, which stands for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable,” when obtaining x-rays. This radiation safety principle limits your exposure by incorporating the following techniques:

use of the fastest image receptor (that is, the fastest film speed or digital speed)
reduction in the size of the x-ray beam to the size of the image receptor whenever possible
use of proper exposure and processing techniques
use of leaded aprons and when possible, thyroid collars (shields organs from radiation exposure; thyroid collar shields thyroid gland)

If you are seeing a new dentist, be sure to provide him or her with copies of your existing x-rays to avoid duplicating them. This also will help limit your exposure to radiation.

Your dentist will decide when x-rays are needed on the basis of your oral examination findings, any symptoms you report, a review of your health history, your risk of experiencing oral disease, your age, or any combination of the preceding. Because of the low radiation dose associated with dental radiographs, people who have received radiation treatment for head and neck cancer can undergo dental radiography safely. In fact, head and neck radiation treatment can increase the risk of developing tooth decay, making the x-rays all the more important for these patients.

If you are pregnant, tell your dentist. During your pregnancy, you may need to have x-rays taken as part of your treatment plan for a dental disease that requires immediate attention. Use of the leaded apron and collar will protect you and your fetus from radiation exposure.

Mortenson Family Dental has DIGITAL X-RAYS!

Why digital x-rays better: The digital dental X-ray system is more sensitive than dental X-ray film systems, so your exposure to radiation is significantly reduced, in many cases by as much as 90 percent. The large, color-enhanced images let you see what your dentist sees, so it’s easier for you to understand how your dentist will treat your teeth. There is no use of photo chemicals, film, processing or film storage making digital x-rays more efficient and less harmful to the environment. Dental checkups take less time and are more educational! Most patients are amazed.

See how amazingly clear and large this x-ray is? Woohoo - we can see EVERYTHING and keep your smile as healthy as can be!

Post Credits.

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

2011-09-16T11:11:00.001-04:00

WEEKEND AT A GLANCE: Three Muskateers Ballet, Dracula, Kentucky Bourbon Festival, Disney on Ice: Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey, UK vs. UofL football game, Bark in the Park & Woof Walk, American Girl Fashion Show Kick Off Event, National Jug Band Jubilee, Deere's Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Path Opening Weekend, Knitting 101

See all details below! Have a GREAT weekend! :)

The Louisville Ballet Presents: The Three Muskateers

Location: Whitney Hall, The Kentucky Center

Times: Tonight, Friday Sept. 16^th, 8-10 PM

Admission: $27-$97

Actor’s Theatre of Louisville & Fifth Third Bank Present: DRACULA

Louisville’s Original Halloween Cult Thriller!

Location: Actor’s Theatre of Louisville – 316 W. Main Street

Time: Tonight, Friday Sept. 16, 7:30-9:30 PM

Admission: $20

The Kentucky Wildcats vs. The Louisville Cardinals
Football Game!

The Cats and the Cards will battle for the win at Commonwealth Stadium in Lexington.
Game Time: 7 PM
Get your tickets on Stubhub.com or TicketMaster.com

Disney On Ice: Mickey & Minnie’s Magical Journey

Friday, Sept. 16 at 7 PM

Saturday, Sept. 17 at 11 AM., 3 PM. and 7 PM

Sunday, Sept. 18 at 2 PM and 6 PM

Location: KFC YUM! CENTER

Tickets will be available for purchase for $13, $22, $37 (VIP) and $53 (rink side), reserved seating.

All ticket prices include a facility fee.

Buy Tickets Here

Bark in the Park & Woof Walk

ANIMAL CARE SOCIETY OFFERS FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN AT BARK IN THE PARK! Two- and four-legged (canine) members of the community are invited to enjoy a tail-waggin’ good time at the Animal Care Society’s Eighth Annual Bark in the Park and Woof Walk at Seneca Park (near the tennis courts).

Time: Saturday Sept. 17^th 8AM-3PM

Location: Senecar Park

Schedule of Events:

8 AM: Woof Walk Registration Begins ($30 donation per walker on day of event)

9 AM: Woof Walk! Benefitting the ACS

9:30 AM: Vendor Booths Open

9:45 AM: Flying Houndz Frizbee Trick Dog Show

10-10:30 AM: Adoptable Pets Parade (animals from local shelters)

10:30 AM: Dog Kissing Contest

11 AM: Dog Agility Demonstration

11:30 AM: Live Music From Local Band

NOON: Adoptable Pet Parade and Alumni Photo Session (ACS adopted pets & their owners)

12:30 PM: Howl-O-Ween Costume Contest

1 PM: Flying Houndz Frizbee Trick Dog Show

1:30 PM: Canine Look-Alike Contest

2 PM.: Police Canine Unit Demonstration

2:30 PM: Raffle Prizes Awarded

Food and dog-themed booths, a silent auction and inflatables and games for the kids will round out the fun.

Established in 1984 and located at 12207 Westport Road, east of the Gene Snyder Freeway, the Animal Care Society is a no-kill shelter for dogs and cats.

American Girl Fashion Show Kickoff Event

Location: Barnes & Noble @ The Summit

Check for specific times @ here.

American Girl Fashion Show® kick-off event will feature a special guest appearance by Lisa Yee, author of 2011 American Girl of the Year book “Kanani” on Sept. 16. Also enjoy American Girl activities, door prizes, announcement of the Today’s Girl award finalists and a chance to win a Kanani doll.

Kentucky Bourbon Festival

Location: 107 East Stephen Foster Avenue, Bardstown, KY 40004

Times: Sept. 13-18^th.

See All Events Here.

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival gives you 6 full days of smooth Bourbon, delicious food, and great entertainment, with a healthy dose of Kentucky hospitality thrown in for good measure. From black tie galas to historical tours, there is something for all ages and interests. It's a wonderful six-day event full of activities for the whole family.

National Jug Band Jubilee

Saturday Sept. 17^th

Times: 12 PM-11PM

Location: Brown-Forman Amphitheatre – 1301 River Rd.

Admission: FREE for all day!

Enjoy 9 of the country's best jug bands, including jug band legend Jim Kweskin, the Juggernaut Jug Band and more! Jug band workshops - family friendly - local food & beer - jug band merchandise. Come celebrate Jug Band music and it's historic ties to Louisville at this free, family friendly music festival!

Deere Farms Corn Maze Opening Weekend!

Open 11 AM – 7 PM

Sept. 17 - Oct. 30th

Location: Deere Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

1565 St. Johns Church Rd. NE, Lanesville, IN 47136

Deere Farms Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch is a Fall family Fun Venue only 15 minutes from downtown Louisville, located in Lanesville, Indiana. Explore our three corn mazes totaling 20 acres and 8 miles of paths. Play our two games offered including our new Farm Scene Investigation to help us find Farmer Joe. Check out Pony Carousel Rides, Pumpkin Patch Shuttle, Hay Rides, Straw Bale Maze, Pumpkin Bounce House, Down Hill Slide, Gem Mining, Kids Barrel Train Rides, Antique John Deere Outside Display, Private Bon-Fire Sites, Gift Shop and Halloween Decorations, Concessions etc.

Knitting 101

Times: 10 AM – 3 PM

Location: Locust Grove561 Blankenbaker Lane Louisville, KY 40207

Learn to knit, or brush up on your skills at this beginners' knitting class. Locust Grove volunteer and experienced knitter Diane Statler will teach you the basics of knitting, along with a few patterns.

For your project, you'll work on a scarf using the different stitch techniques you'll learn today. Please bring a pair of size 8 knitting needles, a cable hook, a skein of worsted-weight yarn, and a sack lunch. Cost $25. Call for reservations, 502-897-9845.

Celebrity Trend: Tweeting at the DENTIST!

2011-09-14T11:56:00.002-04:00

We saw a funny tweet yesterday from People Magazine that said "TMI ALERT! Stars at the Dentist!" So, of course we had to check it out! It's evidently a trend that has started...celebrities tweeting from the dental chair! See the pictures and tweets below! ..and, if you ever get the urge to tweet from our dental chairs, be sure to tweet them to us @MortensonDental! We will love it! :)

"@Mark_Salling: Good times at the dentist."

Tom Hanks (@TomHanks) didn't tweet an open-mouth shot, but he did tweet his x-rays! What do you think?

"@KimKardashian: At the dentist for a good teeth cleaning! This is serious!"

"@JulianneHough: Teeth cleaning time at the dentist...haha sorry TMI...?"

"@IvankaTrump: From the dentist chair! I'm happy to report no cavities were found...I'll celebrate with a cupcake!"

We think there's no better way to celebrate than with a sweet treat! :)

PGA Tour Player "@IanJamesPoulter: 8 filling required oh dear not great news being numbed as we speak..."

"@DavidArchie: Ahh" before getting his wisdom teeth removed!

He said later that hopefully he will recover soon enough. We hope so, too, David!

NFL player "@Ochocinco: That smile is still on point, lost my wisdom teeth doesn't mean I lose my wisdom."

Very true statement! :)

Al Yankovich (@AlYankovich) tweeted this picture while opening wide for his dentist!

Rapper "@50Cent: I can't feel my face, is this real life?" Ha!

He should have come to Mortenson! :)

We thought these were funny! Hope you enjoy, too! Be sure to tweet us @MortensonDental if you ever get the urge to tweet from the dental chair! :)

Post Credits: www.People.com

Mortenson Family Dental Blog

*MEET THE DENTIST* - Dr. Suzanne Ahnquist

Smile Superfoods!

Have a happy mouth!

National Dental Health Month - 5 Really Good Reasons to Smile (right now!)

*MEET THE DENTIST!* Dr. Barrington

A Wonderful Weekend!

*MEET THE DENTIST!* - Dr. Zimmerman

*MEET THE DENTIST!* - Dr. Elias

*Meet the Dentist!* - Dr. Rogers

*Meet The Dentist!* - Dr. Matt Morgan

19 Habits That Wreck Your Teeth

VELscope Featured on "The Doctors" today!

*MEET THE DENTIST* - Dr. Matt Mortenson

*MEET THE DENTIST* - Dr. Brown!

Making Your New Years Resolutions Stick

*MEET THE DENTIST!* DR. COMBS

New Year, New You, Big Smile!

Importance of Oral Care During This Time of Year

10 Tips for Keeping Teeth Extra Clean During Christmas

*MEET THE DENTIST!* DR. RENSLOW

Stocking Stuffers with a Dental Twist!

*MEET THE DENTIST!* DR. TANNER - Corydon

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR!

The Dish on Nail Biting from NYC Dentist Thomas P. Connelly, D.D.S.

*MEET THE DENTIST!* DR. VLAHOS - Buechel Location

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

*MEET THE DENTIST!* DR. FUCHS

*Meet the Dentist!* - Dr. Berger

Dental Floss Uses for Thanksgiving Traditions

5 Thanksgiving Dental Tips

Meet the Dentist! - Dr. Vonnahme

Gum Contouring

MEET THE DENTIST! - Dr. Pape

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

Do you suffer from migraines? Your dentist can help!

Mortenson Ranked 31st in Louisville's 50, Fastest Growing Companies!

Your Weekend Fun from Mortenson!

Your *HALLOWEEN* FUN From Mortenson!

A Dentist's Guide to Halloween

Missing Regular Dental Visits Is Very Expensive For Patients

HPV Linked Oropharyngeal Cancer Rates Rise Dramatically

Check out this article below from MedicalNewsToday.com

HPV Linked Oropharyngeal Cancer Rates Rise Dramatically

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

October - National Dental Hygiene Month!

Halloween Candy *Sweet Swap!*

Weekend of October 7-9

Florence Location: Patient Appreciation Day!

Myths about Diabetes and Dental Care

This info will help you understand the myths and the facts

of diabetes and dental care!

Dental Care Tips for People With Diabetes

Since people with diabetes are more prone to conditions that may harm their oral health, it's essential to follow good dental care practices and to pay special attention to any changes in your oral health and to seek a prompt dental consultation if such changes occur.

Dental Care & Diabetes

What Dental Problems Are People With Diabetes at Higher Risk For?

Weekend FUN from Mortenson!

Cigarette Ads/Packages Must Include Oral Cancer Warnings

Cigarette ads, packages must include oral cancer warnings, says FDA

"Bleachorexia."

Oral Piercings May = Oral Problems :-P

Tips on Toothpicks! - and a little history, too!

Dental X-Rays: Benefits & Safety

Your Weekend Fun From Mortenson!

Celebrity Trend: Tweeting at the DENTIST!

MEET THE DENTIST - Dr. Suzanne Ahnquist

MEET THE DENTIST! Dr. Barrington

MEET THE DENTIST! - Dr. Zimmerman

MEET THE DENTIST! - Dr. Elias

Meet the Dentist! - Dr. Rogers

Meet The Dentist! - Dr. Matt Morgan

MEET THE DENTIST - Dr. Matt Mortenson

MEET THE DENTIST - Dr. Brown!

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. COMBS

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. RENSLOW

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. TANNER - Corydon

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. VLAHOS - Buechel Location

MEET THE DENTIST! DR. FUCHS

Meet the Dentist! - Dr. Berger

Your HALLOWEEN FUN From Mortenson!

Halloween Candy Sweet Swap!