You, your child and cavities

Our team read an interesting article pertaining to cavities and how bacteria spreads from parents to children, and thought we'd share the news with you, our valued patients and parents.

According to the MSNBC article, Streptococcus mutans, or MS, is a bacterium that can pass from person to person through the transfer of saliva, and is the main culprit. Bacteria have been known to spread through blowing on babies' foods, sharing household utensils and even kissing your little one. In fact, a 2008 pediatric dentistry study showed “strong evidence demonstrated that mothers are a primary source of MS colonization of their children; a few investigations showed other potential sources … notably fathers.”

We know tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including the transfer of infectious saliva, genetics, oral hygiene, and feeding practices, such as letting your baby constantly suck on a sippy cup full of juice or milk or other sugar-laden liquids.

Be sure to read the article and learn a bit more about the transmission of bacteria and how it might impact your child. If you have any questions about bacteria or your treatment, please feel free to give us a call!

Team Building Fun With Empower Leadership Sports and Adventure Center in Middletown, CT

Recently our team embarked on a two day, intensive team building workshop at the Empower Leadership Sports and Adventure Center, located in Middletown, CT. Amy Morgan, CEO of the Pride Institute joined us for our practice management meeting, helping us devise ways to serve you, our patients, even better!

A little zip lining fun was just what we needed to refuel our energy, and close out a great team building event! Check out some of the photos we've posted on our Facebook page. A big thanks to the instructors at Empower, along with Chris and Amy. You guys are all awesome!

September is National Gum Care Month

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs - bleeding and swollen gums - as a precursor to gum disease. This month, a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and our Windsor, CT dental team wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Recipes from Gail

Don't know what to do with all those ripe bananas in this hot, humid weather? Too hot to bake banana bread? Try two of my favorite cool ways to use them up. Not only are they delicious but they'll give you and anyone who enjoys them with you a boost of energy!

Banana Shake

2 Frozen, Peeled, Sliced Bananas
1 Banana flavored Light n Fit yogurt
1 Scoop Soy Protein(if desired)
2 Cups milk
Mix all ingredients in blender until desired thickness. This recipe also works well with frozen strawberries and raspberries. Mix your favorite frozen fruits and yogurts to make your own delicious shakes! Enjoy!


Frozen Banana Popsicles

Ripe Bananas
Popsicle sticks(can be found in craft store)
Semi-sweet chocolate morsels (approximately 1 cup per 4 Banana halves)

Halve Bananas, push each half onto a popsicle stick. Place on cookie sheet and freeze until firm. Once Frozen, melt chocolate morsels and roll banana pops in melted chocolate. Chocolate will harden quickly.

For an extra treat roll Banana pop in melted peanut butter and then chocolate! Add chopped nuts, coconut and/or sprinkles to any combination for an extra special pop!

I hope you enjoy these recipes! Feel free to send me your feedback as well as any creative modifications you've made to these yummy banana treats!

-Gail, Patient Coordinator