Now you might be wondering, what does this have to do with a dentist's newsletter? Well for the past 20 years I have had the privilege of listening to my patients while they were in my chair. I can't tell you how many times I hear them say, 'This is the first time I have had to myself all day. I've been running around and it's great to be able to just sit down'. Not what you would expect someone to say in a dental office, right?

I also see firsthand the effects of brushing while they are rushing. Less than optimal home care causes not only periodontal (gum) problems but also decay and breakdown of existing dental work. A stressful and hurried lifestyle additionally causes patients to neglect their health and push off, cancel or miss important preventive care and treatment visits. The cost of this is huge in terms of the time, effort, energy and money it takes to fix the resulting dental problems.

Being mindful, proactive and focused while following a recommended oral hygiene program at home is guaranteed to bring you healthy results. Less stress during your dental visits has been shown to motivate patients to keep their future scheduled appointments with their hygienist and dentist.

We at 229 Charles Street know that stress reduction is the key to not only better oral health but overall wellness. We are excited about bringing you not only the latest in dental research, technology and techniques but also being in the forefront of helping you take advantage of neuroscience's cutting edge findings of mindfulness and stress reduction.

Our job does not end by saying, please floss every day. You already know that. Our job is to help you accomplish the goal and receive all the benefits that go along with the goal.

• I invite you to check out my latest blog in Bella NYC Magazine. It is an honor to serve on their Medical Advisory Board and have the opportunity to share information with the Bella readers. I love the philosophy of 'Beauty as defined by you' .
  Read more here: Chocolate M&M's in a Dentist Office? YES!
      

• The A team has attended a significant amount of Invisalign continuing education over the summer and fall. We continue to have in office learning sessions as well. Our practice relies on Invisalign to help us correct multiple bite, periodontal (gum disease) disease and esthetic issues for our patients. All of these issues, when not treated have a negative impact on our general health and our sense of well being. 

Don't forget, that the holiday season is approaching and there is only 2 months left to the calandar year. If you have dental work that needs to be completed, please call us and schedule your appointment today. Your dental reimbursement benefits and your Health Flex benefits will not carry over to 2014. The upcoming months are especially busy times at the practice and we would hate to not be able to accommodate your needs. Also note that we will be on break from the 24th afternoon of December through the 1st of January, 2014 but of course with Emergency coverage for you. We hope that this gives you all enough advance notice so you can schedule your care with us at your best convenience.

Until next time,

Be well, Do Well, Live Well