Severe Morning Breath Avoidable, Says Edmond Dentist Dr. Damon R. Johnson, DDS

Edmond DentistSmokers at higher risk of bad breath in the morning, according to Edmond dentist Dr. Damon R. Johnson, DDS.

A Gathering of Experts: Good afternoon, Dr. Johnson, thank you for joining us today. We would like to talk about a rather embarrassing problem: morning breath.

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Uncomfortable as it may be, it’s very common. Everyone experiences morning breath to some level.

A Gathering of Experts: But what causes it?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Bacteria, plain and simple. When you sleep, your salivary glands take a rest, too. Without the extra moisture in your mouth, bacteria thrive.

A Gathering of Experts: Is morning breath more of a problem for some people, more than others?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Yes; smokers, those who snore, mouth breathers, and allergy sufferers are often the most affected.

A Gathering of Experts: How is snoring related to bad breath?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: When you snore, your mouth dries out faster than when you inhale normally. The same applies when you breathe through your mouth at night.

A Gathering of Experts: And smoking…?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Smoking is a double whammy where bad breath is concerned. Aside from having a drying effect, it also increases the temperature of the mouth.

A Gathering of Experts: You mentioned allergies as a contributor to bad breath…?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Yes. When the body responds to an allergen, it creates mucus. This phlegm gets caught in the throat at night and becomes an all-you-can-eat buffet for germs. If the allergies evolve into a sinus infection, the situation gets even worse.

A Gathering of Experts: Let’s talk about solutions. Is bad breath preventable?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: That’s the good news. Yes: It is treatable. All it takes is a little preemptive oral care.

A Gathering of Experts: Like…

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Brushing the teeth regularly is a good start. But, you have to brush for a full two minutes for it to be really effective.

A Gathering of Experts: Why is that?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Studies have found that two minutes is the minimum time required to actually hit every surface of the teeth and tongue.

 A Gathering of Experts: The tongue…?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: The tongue holds 85% of the bacteria that causes bad breath.

A Gathering of Experts: Does flossing help?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Of course! Flossing helps you remove food particles between the teeth that brushing simply can’t reach.

A Gathering of Experts: How about mouthwash?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: Yes, but only if used properly and in conjunction with brushing and flossing.

A Gathering of Experts: What’s the proper way?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: You have to start by buying an antibacterial mouthwash. Preferably one that’s ADA approved. Then, rinse the mouth for at least 30 seconds.

A Gathering of Experts: So, a quick swish won’t do the trick?

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: I’m afraid not. A few seconds doesn’t give the mouthwash time to kill the bacteria.

A Gathering of Experts: Thank you for your time today. This has been quite informative!

Damon R. Johnson, DDS, Edmond Dentist: My pleasure.

Stephen Edward Samuelian Explains Skilled Nursing Care

Stephen Edward SamuelianIn today’s question-and-answer session, Stephen Edward Samuelian offers insight on what it takes to provide proper skilled nursing care for senior citizens.

Q: Good morning. It’s wonderful of you to take time out of your busy schedule to chat with us.

Stephen Edward Samuelian: It’s no problem, I appreciate the opportunity.

Q: There are a lot of misconceptions about skilled nursing care. I’d like to clear some of those up today.

Stephen Edward Samuelian: I will be happy to answer any questions that you have.

Q: Let’s start with the most obvious: what specifically is “skilled” nursing care?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: A skilled nursing care facility is one that provides advanced nursing assistance to seniors 24 hours a day.

Q: What do you mean by “advanced?”

Stephen Edward Samue


lian: When we talk about advanced nursing care, we’re speaking of things that most individuals can’t do at home like intravenous medication administration, severe wound care, and rehabilitation services.

Q: Services such as…?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: Speech therapy, occupational therapy, or physical therapy to help an individual regain his or her physical capabilities.

Q: Can you describe the atmosphere in a skilled nursing community like one of yours?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: We strive for a calm and comfortable feeling. The buildings are designed for resident safety as the utmost priority. All staff are carefully screened to ensure they are right fit for the community.

Q: Are there different levels of care?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: Absolutely. Residents may need different types of care at different times during their stay. Some skilled nursing facilities have units that are dedicated to residents with the most difficult memory care concerns.

Q: Such as…?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: A skilled nursing facility that specializes in memory care will cater to patients with Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or other degenerative conditions.

Q: Aside from skilled medical care, what other services to these facilities provide?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: As with any adult residential program, a skilled nursing facility provides laundry services as well as social and educational activities. Most are also inclusive of pharmaceutical and radiological services and hospice care for those facing terminal conditions.

Q: What is the difference between an assisted living community and a skilled nursing care facility?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: An assisted living community is a senior living arrangement where the senior lives in their own apartment.

Q: So they maintain their independence?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: That’s right. They do, however, have services available when needed.

Q: Like access to medical care?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: Yes, as well as a scheduled events, transportation, and many other support services. A skilled nursing facility is a more comprehensive program for individuals who can no longer care for themselves.

Q: Are there any resources for adults facing the decision to put their aging parents into care?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: Absolutely. Medicare offers a wonderful overview of facilities. As well, the American Health Care Association offers many resources. I would also suggest that anyone looking into care options visit multiple facilities in their area.

Q: Aren’t they all similar?

Stephen Edward Samuelian: Not necessarily but they will all have strict minimum levels of care. You want to make sure that the people and location are best suited to your loved-ones needs. They may feel more at home somewhere closer to family or in a location with a certain type of décor. It’s about personal preference.

Q: We appreciate your answers today. Hopefully, we can chat with you on this subject again sometime.

Stephen Edward Samuelian: It would be my pleasure.

Dennis Wong, “YOR Health YOR Repair Ultra Gives the Body an Advantage.”

Dennis Wong YOR HealthDennis Wong, YOR Health co-founder speaks about the newly-reformulated YOR Repair Ultra and how it’s helping people across the globe recover from muscle strain, maintain stamina, and improve athletic performance.

Q: How does YOR Repair Ultra boost the body’s recovery process?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: YOR Repair Ultra contains a powerful blend of enzymes along with antioxidants and muscle-repairing herbs.

Q: Does YOR Repair Ultra promote detoxification?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: Yes, antioxidants help the body detoxify by eliminating harmful substances. YOR Repair Ultra also works to support healthy kidney and liver function which boosts the immune system overall.

Q: What is the base of YOR Repair Ultra?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: We use only vegetable-based capsules. Our products contain no fillers and are full of naturally-derived health-enhancing ingredients.

Q: What ingredients are in YOR Repair Ultra?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: YOR Repair Ultra is formulated with Asian ginseng root, quercetin, rutin, grape seed extract, kelp algae, and Irish moss algae.

Q: How does algae help the body?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: kelp algae is considered a superfood for its effects on muscle function, bones, and blood vessels. Irish moss algae is an antiviral nutrients that works as a natural anti-inflammatory.

Q: Is Asian ginseng root an important part of the product’s formulation?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: Asian ginseng root promotes a healthy heart and mind and helps the body maintain its peak physical endurance.

Q: How is YOR Repair Ultra different now than previous blends?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: YOR Repair Ultra is four times stronger than the original. YOR Repair Ultra gives the body an advantage by providing it with highly-concentrated quality nutrition.

Q: Is YOR Repair Ultra all about the muscles?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: No, YOR Repair Ultra provides a perfect portion of vitamins and minerals to help athletes (and others) stay healthy and maintain optimal performance levels.

Q: How is YOR Repair Ultra taken?

Dennis Wong, YOR Health: One capsule twice a day on an empty stomach with water – preferably 8 ounces or more.

Q&A with Stephen Samuelian: New Grading System for Nursing Homes

Stephen Samuelian According to Stephen Samuelian, Nursing Home Compare has come under recent criticism with complaints that some highly rated nursing homes have had numerous problems and face fines.  Starting immediately, the federal government now requires nursing homes to do more to simply receive higher quality scores.  Below, Stephen Samuelian explains the new measures and what they mean for nursing homes across the country.

Q: Thank you for being here today, Mr. Stephen Samuelian.

Stephen Samuelian: It’s my pleasure.

Q: What exactly is “Nursing Home Compare?”

Stephen Samuelian: Nursing Home Compare is a government website to help consumers evaluate nursing homes. It rates more than 15,000 nursing homes in three broad categories. The website gives grades to nursing homes in the form of one- to five-star ratings. [Read more…]

Marla Ahlgrimm on Proper Skin Care

Marla AhlgrimmMany women are looking for ways to fight the signs of aging, notes pharmacist Marla Ahlgrimm. However, when researching all the products designed to reduce oil, banish pimples, and clean pores, the overwhelming glut of information can be quite confusing. In this recent conversation, Marla Ahlgrimm shares how a few home remedies may help women in their quest for better skin care.

A Gathering of Experts: A warm welcome to you!

Marla Ahlgrimm: Thank you so much, I’m grateful to be here today.

A Gathering of Experts: We’re so glad you could join us to talk about skin care for today’s women.

Marla Ahlgrimm: I’ve been looking forward to it for quite some time… [Read more…]

Q & A with the Dentist Professionals: Root Canals and You

If you have a deep cavity or broken tooth, a root canal may be in order. Here, Dentist experts answer questions on this common procedure and offer advice on how to find a dentist to treat your condition.

Q: What exactly is a root canal?

A: A root canal is a dental procedure necessary when tissue inside of the tooth becomes damaged. Your dentist will remove the diseased pulp (connective membranes, nerves, and soft tissue containing blood vessels inside of the tooth). Once the diseased matter is removed, the exposed area is cleaned and sealed. Teeth that contain damaged or diseased pulp may become painful or infected if left untreated.

Q: What causes tooth infections?

A: There are a number of ways that tissue inside of your teeth can become infected. Broken or cracked teeth or those with unfilled cavities are vulnerable to disease. Even teeth with no visible damage are susceptible.

Q: How long will the restoration from a root canal last?

A: A root canal is a restorative procedure that, if cared for properly, may last a lifetime. However, even teeth without nerves can still develop cavities or, worse, gum disease.

Q: Is a root canal painful?

A: Typically, a root canal is more uncomfortable than painful. Your dentist will offer pain management options that may include local anesthesia or nitrous oxide. A root canal typically takes between one and three visits for completion. Post-procedure pain may be managed with over the counter products, according to the advice of your dentist.

Q: How do I find a dentist experienced in this procedure?

A: Root canals are extremely common procedures that are often performed by a general or family dentist. However, if you have any concerns you may want to find a dentist that specializes in the treatment of issues inside the teeth. These dentists are called endodontists and have undergone additional training to identify and treat hidden dental issues.

Berni Fried Calls for More Research into Addiction Treatment Programs

Eager to challenge the accepted norms of traditional medical organizations, licensed therapist Berni Fried has dedicated her career to advancing treatment methods for people who are struggling with addiction. In the following interview, A Gathering of Experts asks Berni Fried about the epidemic of drug and alcohol abuse that has ravaged communities throughout the United States.

A Gathering of Experts: Thanks for offering your thoughts to us today. Welcome, Ms. Fried.

Berni Fried: I’m grateful for the invitation.

A Gathering of Experts: We’re looking at some of the most recent statistics regarding drug and alcohol abuse in America.

Berni Fried: It’s frightening, to be honest. [Read more…]

Preventative Dental Care Begins with Education, says Damon R. Johnson, DDS

Damon R. Johnson, DDS answers common questions regarding preventative dental care and explains why oral hygiene is vital to overall health.

Q: What is preventative dentistry?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: This is the area of dentistry that allows dentists to identify and avert problems before they require costly (and painful) treatment.

Q: What does it consist of?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: First and foremost, patient education. This includes providing information on proper dental care and nutrition. We also educate our patients on the benefits of prophylaxis – preventative care, cleanings, and exams.

Q: Why are regular cleanings important?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Even patients who brush regularly need twice-yearly cleanings to remove plaque build-up. Regular exams also allow us to check for cavities and damage to teeth and gums.

Q: What causes gum disease?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Heavy deposits of plaque along the gum line cause inflammation. This painful, red, and swollen condition is gum disease and it has been linked to other health concerns, including diabetes.

Q: What is the difference between gingivitis and gum disease?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Gingivitis is early-stage periodontal (gum) disease. At this stage, bacteria begins to attack the soft tissue of the gums.

Q: Is gum disease reversible?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: If caught early enough, yes. Otherwise, we must look into restorative dental procedures to get the mouth back to a pre-diseased state.

Q: How has modern technology made preventative dentistry easier?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Medical advancements, such as 3D x-rays and powerful microscopes, allow for a better view and consequently a more thorough analysis of  a patient’s dental state, meaning that we can treat problems sooner.

Q: How do sealants play a role in oral health?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Sealants allow us to cover teeth at-risk for dental caries, also known as cavities, with a special formula to prevent further decay.

Q: Where are sealants used?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Sealants are effective on back teeth, which tend to have grooves that collect debris and breed bacteria.

Q: What is bruxism?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Most people know this as teeth grinding. Bruxism is a common issue that can cause a host of health problems such as migraine headache and tooth damage.

Q: How can a dentist help prevent bruxism?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: We can’t stop a patient from the action of grinding/clenching but we do offer custom night guards to eliminate damage to teeth and ease the tension on muscles around the mouth.

Q: Can mouth guards help athletes on the field?

Edmond OK, dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Yes, a well-fitting mouth guard helps athletes improve their balance. More importantly, they work to prevent or minimize facial trauma.

Q: Are all mouthguards the same?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: No, the best mouth guard is a custom-fitted piece. At Damon R. Johnson, DDS Dental Excellence, we use the Under Armour® Armour BiteTM. This mouthpiece has been praised by both athletes and coaches. For anyone who plays sports, mouth guards are a must.

Sophia Wong of YOR Health Endorses the YOR Best Body Championship

Sophia Wong YOR HealthWith over 250,000 votes cast, the 2014 YOR Best Body Championship is the most successful edition yet, according to Sophia Wong of YOR Health. Sophia Wong, a YOR Health co-founder, is proud to share the news about this year’s finalists. In a recent interview with A Gathering of Experts, Sophia Wong of YOR Health offers her gratitude for the health-savvy competitors who strive for the finish line.

A Gathering of Experts: Thanks for joining us this morning!

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Hello! How are you doing?

A Gathering of Experts: It’s a beautiful day…

Sophia Wong, YOR Health: Indeed! [Read more…]

YOR Health Offers Lifestyle Tips for Health and Wellness

YOR HealthThe team at YOR Health puts full confidence in the old adage that laughter is the best medicine. In fact, YOR Health has found a number of research projects that show humor is a terrific aid for overall health. In this interview, a YOR Health spokesperson shares how certain daily habits can reduce stress and provide a sense of relaxation for all people.

A Gathering of Experts: Hello, and welcome to our chat!

 
YOR Health: Glad to be here with you today.

A Gathering of Experts: What’s your first lifestyle tip for attaining good health?
 
YOR Health: Funny enough, it’s washing your hands.

A Gathering of Experts: That sounds like an odd place to start.
 
YOR Health: In a way, yes. However, nearly 80 percent of infections can be traced back to a person’s hands. Careful hand washing can help protect you from the spread of infection. [Read more…]