Has it been a while since you’ve last had your dentures checked? Full dentures and partial dentures need the same level of care as natural teeth. If you wear dentures, it doesn’t mean you’re off the hook for maintaining great oral health. Routine checkups help prevent any major oral problems from developing and allow for planning any changes your dentures require to ensure you’re never without your teeth. With yearly checkups, your dentures will continue to perform properly, and your maintained oral health will mean shorter and smoother visits!
Community News
What Happens When You Quit
The quitting smoking timeline varies from person to person, but generally follows a similar pattern:
20 minutes: Blood pressure and heart rate drop.
12 hours: Carbon monoxide levels in the blood decrease.
2 weeks to 3 months: Circulation improves, lung function increases, and physical activity becomes easier.
1 to 9 months: Coughing and shortness of breath decrease as lung function continues to improve.
1 year: The risk of heart disease is halved compared to a smoker’s risk.
5 years: Stroke risk is similar to that of a non-smoker.
10 years: The risk of lung cancer is halved compared to that of a continuing smoker, and the risk of other cancers decreases further.
The Healthy Book Club
The Harvard Medical School Guide to Men’s Health – distills 25 years of research on men’s health into a comprehensive resource. It covers diet, exercise, supplements, and diseases like prostate cancer. The guide also offers advice on alcohol consumption, stress control, and navigating the healthcare system, making it an essential reference for men’s health. Ask at your local bookstore.
What is Photokeratitis?
Sunburn on the eyes, also known as photokeratitis, results from excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight or artificial sources like tanning beds. This condition affects the cornea and conjunctiva, causing pain, redness, tearing, and a gritty sensation, akin to having sand in the eyes. Prolonged UV exposure without protection, such as sunglasses or goggles, increases the risk. Symptoms usually manifest within a few hours after exposure and can last up to a few days. Prevention involves wearing UV-blocking eyewear and avoiding prolonged exposure to bright sunlight, especially at high altitudes or near reflective surfaces like water.
Which Sunscreen is Best?
Summer is here! Have you been protecting yourself against sun exposure? When selecting a sunscreen, go for the “broad spectrum” protection. Sunscreens with this label protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure your sunscreen has a sun protection factor of 30 or higher. The SPF number is the level of protection the sunscreen provides against harmful rays. Higher SPF numbers do mean more protection, but the higher you go, the smaller the difference becomes. Secondly, look at the ingredients. Physical blockers (titanium dioxide, zinc oxide) provide the best protection and cause less skin irritation than chemical sunscreens.
June Reflection
June marks Men’s Mental Health Month, a vital time to highlight the often-overlooked struggles men face. Coupled with Father’s Day, this period serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional burdens fathers silently bear. At our cemetery, we honor the legacies of fathers past and present, acknowledging the weight of their responsibilities. We encourage families to visit and reflect, fostering open conversations about mental health. By breaking the silence, we support fathers in nurturing their well-being. Let us cherish their memories and advocate for a future where every father’s mental health is prioritized and valued.
Happy Healthy Feet
As temperatures rise, care for your feet during summer activities is crucial. Hydrate by drinking water to prevent dryness and cracking. Choose breathable footwear to avoid sweat buildup and fungal infections. Wash feet thoroughly, especially between toes, and apply sunscreen to protect from sunburn. Trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Moisturize daily, focusing on dry areas like heels. Take breaks to rest and elevate feet to reduce swelling. Rotate shoes to prevent odor and bacterial growth. Seek professional help for persistent issues. So, slip on those sandals, hit the beach, and let your feet take you on your next summer adventure!
Stoking Our Inner Warrior
An inner warrior is someone who has the strength to stand up for what they believe in and speak their truth. Someone who perseveres in the face of adversity and challenge and who acts with integrity despite their challenges. Someone who knows how to love fully and generously shares their love. One way to cultivate the presence of your inner warrior is to choose a role model who embodies the quality of bravery, inner strength and courage. Close your eyes and each day contemplate the quality of energy that attracts you to this person and know this energy lies within you to receive and use fully.
Wildfire Smoke Health Risks
Wildfire smoke, a blend of PM2.5 and gases like carbon monoxide, poses severe health risks in Western Canada. It obstructs oxygen intake, irritates the respiratory system, and triggers inflammation, manifesting in eye irritation, coughing, or headaches. While most symptoms are manageable, severe cases require medical attention, especially if experiencing breathlessness or chest pain. Smoke exposure heightens infection risks and even ear infections in children. Minimizing exposure is crucial. HEPA air filters like PureHEPA+ and sealed environments help indoors. While driving, maintain closed windows and recirculated air. During smoky periods, reduce exertion, exercise indoors, and stay hydrated. Prioritize health amidst wildfires. Source: www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke. use code CVWN24 or a 15% discount
June is Migraine Awareness Month
Migraines impact one billion people across the globe and is recognized as the #2 cause of disability worldwide. While a migraine is a headache, a headache isn’t always a migraine. Headaches cause pain in the neck, sinuses, face, and head. Migraines, however, cause debilitating pain, visual disturbances, or both. They can last for hours or days and are often chronic. Without relief, migraines can cause other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness and can also lead to depression. Some of the most common triggers include stress, bright lights, sleep changes, alcohol, foods such as aged cheeses, and changes in exercise habits. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice on prevention and treatment.
Downsizing Solutions
In an evolving real estate market, many clients are turning to reverse mortgages to secure new properties for downsizing. Reverse mortgages provide financial flexibility, allowing clients to buy a new home before selling their current one. Some keep the old home as a backup, while others move out and renovate it for a higher sale price. With traditional mortgages and secured lines of credit becoming harder to qualify for, homeowners are leveraging reverse mortgages, which have no income requirements, to position themselves advantageously.
