Be a Santa to a Senior Tree

Reminder that Friday is collection day for Be a Santa for a Senior!  We still have a few more ornaments too in our office if you'd like help!   For more details regarding the program, see:

http://www.beasantatoasenior.com/

 

Leap n Learn Visit

Danan and Kim enjoyed their visit with the preschool children teaching them about how to keep their precious smiles healthy!

Frequently asked questions:

When should my child first visit the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association all recommend your baby visit the dentist by age 1 for an infant oral exam. Seems a bit early, but this appointment is about learning about the dentist and dental care. Children are given the opportunity to see a dental office and equipment in effort to help them feel more comfortable about future visits. Parents will learn about preventative measures that will ensure their children’s health and smile, including education about bottle feeding, oral hygiene, harmful oral habits, development and diet and nutrition.

Even if your child already has a set of teeth already and hasn’t seen the dentist yet, it’s never too late to start. The sooner, the better as it helps set up excellent oral hygiene habits and being comfortable with the dentist for a lifetime of healthy smiles!

What can my child expect at the first visit? 

Everyone on our team all have experience with caring for children and understand how intimidating it can be for them. When you come in for your child's appointment, one of our dental assistants will gently explain to your child that a dental cleaning and exam will be performed so there are no surprises. In the patient room, your child will be introduced to the dental chair which has a flat screen television so he/she may enjoy a favorite show during the exam. In partnering with parents, we will discuss a plan for your child’s developing teeth that includes prevention and excellent oral health habits!

Kids and Candy...

If your child's Valentine's day loot looked something like Halloween, here are Dr. Josiah Chen's tips to prevent tooth decay: 

1) Give kids a time limit to eat the candy quickly.  Sucking on candy, such as lollipops and hard candies,  extends exposure to sugar.  Set a timer or keep your eye on the clock!   

2) Brush afterwards.   Remember to brush as least twice a day and use songs like "Brush, brush, brush your teeth" (tune of "Row Row Row Your Boat") or set a timer (pick one up at your next check up with us!)  

3) After a few days, get rid of any leftover candy! Your child has already eaten their favorite candy -- don't save the rest!

 

Use your flexible spending account early!

Great article ran in Sunday's N&O. #1 Tip: Flex spending accts are front loaded with FULL amounts starting Jan 1 that can be spent for eligible expenses. Tap it early! 
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204652904577197274197328152.html


According to the IRS (http://www.irs.gov/publications/p502/ar02.html#en_US_publink1000178923):
Dental Treatment that is included:  cleanings, sealants, fluoride treatments, X-rays, fillings, braces, extractions, dentures and other dental services (call us at 919-469-3669 for more details).

2011 Cheers

Our team celebrated the holidays together with our families at Tribeca Tavern this year! 

Thanks to our patients, team, and families for another wonderful year! Happy Holidays to all!

Adopt-a-Highway: Davis Drive

Every few months, we take an afternoon off from caring for our patients to caring for our community.  

In trying to enter this contest to win $250, we found no unusual litter yesterday in cleaning up Davis Drive as part of our commitment to Adopt-a-Highway. Oh well! Last year's winner found a diamond ring! 

http://keepncbeautiful.org/events/unusual-litter-contest-2/ 

 

Summer Teeth Whitening Winners!

Thanks to all who enter our Summer Teeth Whitening Giveaway and congrats to our three winners!
July: Liz K
August: Dee M
September: Lindsay B

We hope everyone had a wonderful summer and don't forget to mention this promotion and receive $100 off of in-office whitening or $50 off of take home whitening!