Dental Care

Dental Care

Parents and leaders should teach that care of the mouth, teeth, and gums is of extreme importance in good personal health. Critical oral functions range from simply chewing food to communicating with clear, understandable speech. Personal care of the mouth should begin at birth and continue daily throughout life. Preventing sugars and other foods from staying in the mouth and on the teeth after eating is a key to good oral hygiene and health. Unfortunately, oral disease (teeth cavities and gum infections) is the most prevalent health challenge of man. Daily brushing and flossing of teeth and massaging of gums, combined with avoidance of tobacco or other foreign substances, and regular visits to the dentist, will preserve the mouth, teeth, and gums throughout life and avoid months or years of pain, suffering, and lost productivity.

http://www.providentliving.org/content/display/0,11666,2885-1-1263-1,00.html 

Healthy smile, healthy you: The importance of oral health

Regular dentist visits can do more than keep your smile attractive – they can tell dentists a lot about your overall health, including whether or not you may be developing a disease like diabetes.

New industry research suggests that the health of your mouth mirrors the condition of your body as a whole. For example, when your mouth is healthy, chances are your overall health is good, too. On the other hand, if you have poor oral health, you may have other health problems.
http://www.glassettdental.com/patient-info-center/

Smiling Benefits
Research also shows that a healthy smile may actually prevent certain diseases from occurring.

• Helps You Stay Positive
• Can Change Your Mood
• Brings Happiness
• Reduces Stress
• Boosts Your Immune System
• Lowers Your Blood Pressure
• Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain Killers and Serotonin
• Lifts the Face and Makes You Look Younger
• Gives You Confidence
• Attracts People To Us

Do I Really Need to Floss?

 

Yes. Floss removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. Plaque is a sticky layer of material containing bacteria that accumulates on teeth, including places where toothbrushes can't reach. This can lead to gum disease. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping them for a lifetime and decrease the chance of getting gum disease.

Prevent Oral Health Problems: Visit a Dentist Twice a Year

 

Although twice-a-year dental visits are the key ingredient to maintaining good oral health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports less than two-thirds of adults make one yearly dental trip. In addition, one-third of all Americans have untreated tooth decay and more than 50 percent have gingivitis, which can quickly develop into periodontal (gum) disease. Visiting a dentist twice a year can be instrumental to prevent oral health problems and predict overall health conditions.

http://www.knowyourteeth.com/infobites/abc/article/?abc=p&iid=297&aid=1192 

What is a Composite Resin (White Filling)?

 

A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture used to restore decayed teeth. Composites are also used for cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or reshaping disfigured teeth.

 

How is a composite placed?

 

Following preparation, the dentist places the composite in layers, typically using a light specialized to harden each layer. When the process is finished, the dentist will shape the composite to fit the tooth. The dentist then polishes the composite to prevent staining and early wear.

What you can do

Seeing a dentist regularly helps to keep your mouth in top shape and allows your dentist to watch for developments that may point to other health issues. A dental exam also can detect poor nutrition and hygiene, growth and development problems and improper jaw alignment. Provide your dentist with a complete medical/dental history and inform him or her of any recent health developments, even if they seem unrelated to your oral health.

Poor oral health can lead to problems

If you don't take care of your teeth and gums, your poor oral hygiene can actually lead to other health problems, including:

• Oral and facial pain. According to the Office of the Surgeon General, this pain may be largely due to infections of the gums that support the teeth and can lead to tooth loss. Gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease, and advanced gum disease affect more than 75 percent of the U.S. population.

• Problems with the heart and other major organs. Mouth infections can affect major organs. For example, the heart and heart valves can become inflamed by bacterial endocarditis, a condition that affects people with heart disease or anyone with damaged heart tissue.

• Oral cancer. Poor oral care can contribute to oral cancer, which now takes more lives annually than cervical or skin cancer.

• Digestion problems. Digestion begins with physical and chemical processes in the mouth, and problems here can lead to intestinal failure, irritable bowel syndrome and other digestion disorders.

http://www.deltadentalins.com/oral_health

Provident Living Healthy Meeting

May 26th, 2010 at 7:00pm.

Come learn tips on taking control of you and your families' health.
There will be three great speakers on different areas of health.

Don't miss this opportunity!

De-Stress in a MOM's Garden

Did you know gardening is a great stress reliever? You get an aromatherapy treatment from the fragrance of the flowers and you stretch and work out your body by planting and pulling out weeds. As well, pastel colors, like pink tulips and yellow daffodils, are known to have a calming effect on your emotions, so it's no wonder your mom loves to garden! And who knows - you may end up liking it so much that you garden with her even after Mother's Day!

Gardening requires you to use your head and your creativity. The time spent planning the garden and researching different plants is a great brain workout. Gardening gives us a chance to be creative. You can let your personality shine through in your garden.

Gardening connects you with people. It's like walking down the street with a new puppy. Everybody talks to a gardener. It's also a great activity to do with kids. Give them a section of the garden all their own. Some of the best lessons can be learned in the garden such as delayed gratification and don't leave a rake on the ground with the head pointing upwards.

• Gardening provides fresh fruits and vegetables and the encouragement to eat them.
• Gardening provides the regular physical exercise listed in the prevention of heart disease, obesity, adult-onset diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Gardening can be especially beneficial for people with special needs or those recovering from illness. Gardening promotes an increased range of motion, develops eye-hand coordination, improves motor skills and increases self esteem. 
• Gardening connects you with mother's nature and the rhythm of life. 

Happy Mother's Day!

My mother has a garden that she waters every day.

Sometimes she picks the flowers and makes a bright bouquet.

She says the flowers remind her of things that children do—

So come into the garden, and I’ll explain to you.

She says I’m like a daisy,

a golden ray of sun,

Or like a happy marigold,

always full of fun.

Here’s a lacy lilac;

it scatters sweet perfume.

And here’s a yellow daffodil

to brighten up a room.

I’m like a carefree dandelion

growing wild and free.

And I am like a hollyhock,

as tall as I can be.

Here’s a strong snapdragon,

as big and brave as Dad.

And here’s a small, sweet violet

trying to be glad.

I’m like a quiet crocus

with promise for the spring.

I’m a purple pansy

that makes you want to sing.

If I am like a flower, then surely you must know

That mother is the gardener, for she helps me to grow!

She cultivates and nurtures and enriches patiently.

Thank you, Heavenly Father, for creating her for me.

Pat Graham and Joan Ashton, “Sharing Time: Mother Is a Gardener,” Friend, May 1985, 32

D&C 59: 17

The Benefits of Hugs

Every day of every year, many people take steps to make themselves healthier and to improve the quality of their lives.

One of the most interesting effects of the hug is its ability to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Of course, there are a number of medical reasons for this, and it is simply one more reason to enjoy a friendly hug.

 When a person is hugged, their comfort level is increased, and they enjoy being around a fellow human being. Also, the hug communicates many things to many people. A hug from a friend or family brings back happy memories and makes the huggee relive those moments. Also, if we follow social psychology, we become aware of the many benefits that result in the body and mind when we feel accepted or understood by another person. Even though one may think that a deep conversation can have these effects, the simple truth is that a hug creates those feelings of acceptance and compassion that can sometimes be difficult to find in our modern world. Thus, when we experience these things, we become more relaxed, we are happier, and our entire attitude tends to improve. As a direct result of these things, our heart rates become more relaxed and over a period of time, lower heart rates and increased time spent being happy can actually lower blood pressure and have very effective bonuses to heart health.

Another important benefit of the hug is the effect that it can on the mental state of an individual, as well as the physical. People who hug more frequently tend to be more open about their emotions and develop a greater sense of closeness and compassion to those around them. However, sometimes, it can be difficult to accept others or to realize that there are other people around us. For that reason, sometimes the simple hug can open up mental blocks with this matter, allowing an individual to feel increased feelings of happiness and even trigger a small release of dopamine. However, even though physical contact can sometimes have brain chemical effects (such as the release of dopamine mentioned before) it is not a constant. Instead, the greater benefits in this area come from the simple effect of being close to other human beings and feeling a real bond or connection between people.

Of course, remember that not everyone likes to be hugged, and always ask before giving a hug to someone who you may not be sure wants a hug. In closing, remember the simple things in life that can make such a difference, and the hug is definitely one of them.

Alma 37: 6

Now ye may suppose that this is a foolishness in me; but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise.

NOTE: The information on this site does not constitute medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified health care provider.  Before embarking on any weight loss plan or making dietary changes, you should consult your doctor.

Fresh Ideas for Easter

At this Easter season of hope and renewal we testify of the glorious reality of the atonement and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Read more>>
The word Atonement describes the setting “at one” of those who have been estranged, and denotes the reconciliation of man to God. Sin is the cause of the estrangement, and therefore the purpose of atonement is to correct or overcome the consequences of sin.
Jesus Christ, as the Only Begotten Son of God and the only sinless person to live on this earth, was the only one capable of making an atonement for mankind.
BIBLE DICTIONARY - Atonement

Celebrate spring with these easy healthy Easter recipes. Spring holidays are here and sometimes we need a little something special when we gather with friends and family.

Ham, Gruyere & Spinach Bread Pudding

Ingredients

For the custard:

4 large egg whites

4 large eggs

1 cup skim milk

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

For the bread and filling:

4 cups (4-6 slices) whole-grain bread, crusts removed if desired, cut into 1-inch cubes

5 cups chopped spinach, wilted

1/2 cup chopped jarred roasted red peppers

1 cup (5 ounces) diced ham steak

For the topping:

3/4 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat an 11” x 7” glass baking dish or a 2-quart casserole with cooking spray.

2. To prepare the custard whisk egg whites, eggs and milk in a medium bowl. Add mustard, pepper and rosemary and whisk to combine.

3. Toss bread, spinach, roasted red peppers and ham in a large bowl. Add the custard and toss well to coat. Transfer to the prepared baking dish and push down to compact. Cover with foil.

4. Bake until the custard has set, 40-45 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with cheese and continue baking until the pudding is puffed and golden on top, 15-20 minutes more. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Spinach Benefits:

Health Benefits of Spinach: Better Vision

Eating Spinach is Good for the Heart

The Cancer Fighting Benefits of Eating Spinach

Eating Spinach Builds Better Blood Cells

Italian Ham Cold Plate

6 slices Deli Fresh Shaved Smoked Ham

1/2 cup  baby spinach

1 tomato, halved

1 slice  honeydew melon (2-inch wedge)

5 RITZ Crackers

1/4 cup Shredded Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese

2 Tbsp. Zesty Italian Dressing

Make It!

ARRANGE ham, spinach, tomatoes, melon and crackers on plate. Top tomato halves with cheese.

DRIZZLE with dressing or use dressing as a dipping sauce.

Honeydew Melon Health Benefits:

Contain potassium, this mineral helps keep your muscles from cramping.

Great source of folic acid for women of childbearing age because it is known to prevent birth defects.

Ideal food for people who want to lose weight and for those who want to improve their health because it is low in sodium, fat-free, cholesterol free and low calories. One cup of honeydew contains 60 calories.

Contain plenty of water which keeps us hydrated.

It is a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent many diseases.

Crisp-and-Creamy Baked Chicken

4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 lb.)

6 Tbsp.  (1/2 of 1 pouch) Extra Crispy Seasoned Coating Mix

2 cups instant white rice, uncooked

2/3 cup  (1/2 of 10-3/4-oz. can) condensed cream of celery soup

1/4 cup milk

1 cup  Shredded Cheddar & Monterey Jack Cheese

Make It!

HEAT oven to 400°F.

COAT chicken with coating mix as directed on package; place in greased 13x9-inch baking dish. Discard any remaining coating mix.

BAKE 20 min. or until chicken is done (165°F). Meanwhile, cook rice as directed on package.

MIX soup and milk until well blended; pour over chicken. Top with cheese. Bake 5 min. or until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbly. Serve with rice and hot steamed carrots.

Health Benefits of Carrot:
   1. Carrot can enhance the quality of breast milk.
   2. Carrot can improve the appearance of the skin, hair and nails.
   3. When taken daily it can lower cholesterol and blood pressure.
   4. Raw contain beta-carotene, a strong antioxidant that can prevent cancer.
   5. Carrot juice when taken everyday prevent bodily infections and is claimed to be valuable for the adrenal glands (the small endocrine glands situated above the kidneys).
   6. Carrot can help improve eyesight.
   7. Carrot can help increase menstrual flow.
   8. Carrots can regulate blood sugar.
   9. Carrot can promote colon health, because carrot is rich in fiber.

Carrot Cake

Ingredients

Cake 
1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple  
2 cups whole-wheat pastry flour, (see Ingredient Note)  
2 teaspoons baking soda  
1/2 teaspoon salt  
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon  
3 large eggs  
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar  
3/4 cup nonfat buttermilk, (see Tip)  
1/2 cup canola oil  
1 teaspoon vanilla extract  
2 cups grated carrots, (4-6 medium)  
1/4 cup unsweetened flaked coconut  
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, toasted (see Tip)

Frosting 
12 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese, (Neufchâtel), softened  
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted  
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract  
2 tablespoons coconut chips, (see Ingredient Note) or flaked coconut, toasted

Preparation

1. To prepare cake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Coat a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
2. Drain pineapple in a sieve set over a bowl, pressing on the solids. Reserve the drained pineapple and 1/4 cup of the juice.
3. Whisk flour, baking soda, salt and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Whisk eggs, sugar, buttermilk, oil, vanilla and the 1/4 cup pineapple juice in a large bowl until blended. Stir in pineapple, carrots and 1/4 cup coconut. Add the dry ingredients and mix with a rubber spatula just until blended. Stir in the nuts. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
4. Bake the cake until the top springs back when touched lightly and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool completely on a wire rack.
5. To prepare frosting and finish cake: Beat cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Sprinkle with toasted coconut.

Enjoy with your Family and Friends!

Healthy Tips for Spring

Healthful eating is never so easy as it is in the spring. From salads to sides, entrées to desserts, here is a collection of our wholesome springtime favorites.

Spring is here—and fresh produce is one delicious benefit of this season of rebirth. These easy healthy recipes highlight fresh fruits and vegetables in season, such as asparagus, sweet peas, strawberries, artichokes, leeks and rhubarb. For produce at its peak, shop the farmers’ market or grow fruits and vegetables in your garden.

Preventive Medicine

Fresh fruits and vegetables are healthy in part because they contain phytochemicals, or beneficial compounds, such as beta-carotene, and lycopene, which aid in the prevention of cancer.

An Apple a Day

There is truth to the old "apple a day" adage, though this time of year, think seasonally and make it a "strawberry" or "artichoke" a day.... Beyond having weight-watching benefits, a diet plentiful in fruits and vegetables decreases your risk of stroke and heart attack, helps lower blood pressure, and even guards against eye disease.

Rich and Thin

Spring favorites asparagus and artichokes are often associated with rich, luxurious menus, but they're also incredibly healthy: They are both excellent sources of fiber and contain a host of nutrients, including vitamins C, K, and folate. "Asparagus is a particularly well-rounded vegetable, nutritionally speaking," says Monica Reinagel, chief nutritionist for our sister site NutritionData.com, writing in Epicurious and NutritionData's joint newsletter Healthy Dinner Tonight. "It's high in antioxidants A, C, and E, as well as vitamin K (for healthy bones), and has an array of B vitamins for energy."

My Favorite Recipe

Asparagus with Prosciutto

Ingredients

16 spears asparagus, (about 1 bunch), trimmed

1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

Pinch of salt

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

2 very thin slices prosciutto, (about 1 ounce), cut in half lengthwise

Cream Cheese (optional)

Preparation

   1. Preheat grill to medium.

   2. Toss asparagus with oil, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Wrap 1 length of prosciutto around the middle of 4 asparagus spears. Repeat, making 4 bundles. Oil the grill rack (see Tip). Grill the asparagus bundles, turning once or twice, until the asparagus is tender and charred in spots, about 10 minutes.

OPTIONAL: Spread cream cheese in a length of prosciutto and wrap around the middle of 4 asparagus spears.

Provident Healthy Life

 "Welcome to Provident Healthy Life blog page. I will be updating this space regularly with new topics, tips, and healthy recipes that I think will be of interest to Provident Healthy Life users".  I would like your cooperation in order to build our best healthy lifestyle.  If you have any topics e.g. Allergies, High Blood Pressure, etc. that we can investigated, or “How can we prevent or get better with natural methods?” Please, you can write in a comments section and we can help us to each other.

Our bodies are gifts from God. The Lord has commanded us to keep our bodies and minds healthy (see I Corinthians 3:16-17; D&C 88:124; 89). By doing this, we are better able to take care of our own needs and serve others.

If you feel this blog is helping, please do tell your friends and loved ones...

With  Love,

Glorys Puerto-Matos

CONTACT US
Have an idea or question? Email us at glorys@energyandrelax.com

NOTE: The information on this site does not constitute medical advice. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with a qualified health care provider.  Before embarking on any weight loss plan or making dietary changes, you should consult your doctor.