Saliva is your mouth’s first line of defence—it buffers acid, remineralizes enamel, and controls bacteria. Many medications (antihypertensives, antihistamines, and antidepressants) reduce salivary flow, dramatically increasing the risk of cavities and bone loss, which can lead to early tooth loss. If you experience dry mouth, tell your dental hygienist. There are targeted strategies—rinses, fluoride, and dietary adjustments—that can significantly offset the damage. Your friendly neighbourhood dental hygienists at Pacific Pearl are always happy to help!
Community News
Tips to Refocus Your Mind
Do racing thoughts keep you up at night or make it hard to focus during the day? A simple yet powerful solution only requires a pen and a piece of paper. When your mind fixates on emotionally charged or important thoughts, it’s trying to help, but ends up hijacking your focus. Give your brain space to process by writing down everything swirling in your head: worries, to-do lists, questions—anything. No need to filter. Take one minute or five. Once it’s on paper, your mind can refocus. Regularly writing down your thoughts improves mood, reduces stress, and even supports overall well-being.
Need Care But Can’t See Your Doctor?
Access to medical care is one of the most pressing challenges we face here on Vancouver Island. Through our partnership with Avee Health, we are able to provide: *Same-day virtual access to BC-licensed physicians. *Care For Everyone — with or without a family doctor. *A pharmacist assessment of your condition. *Help with booking. *A connection to a doctor. *And, your prescription filled – all in ONE STOP. Healthcare shouldn’t be stressful and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Let us help you. We offer Accessible care right in your community. Here at the Medicine Shoppe, we care about your health!
Is Your Retirement Plan Complete?
Are pre-arranged funeral arrangements missing from your retirement plan? Here are three reasons to make pre-arranged plans that fit your personality and values, no matter how your lifestyle changes in the years to come: 1. Life insurance does not cover the cost of funerals. Planning helps pay for the full cost before your death. 2. Funeral planning is part of your legacy for your children. With planning, you have peace of mind knowing that your children are protected from certain monetary pressures. 3. Inflation affects lifestyle and funeral plans. We are here to help. Please request our free estate planning kit today.
Dogs and Dental Plaque
Dogs and Dental Plaque
Dogs can develop plaque on their teeth just like people. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms after eating and drinking. If it is not removed, it can harden into tartar, leading to bad breath, gum disease, tooth loss, and even health problems affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Signs of dental disease include yellow or brown buildup on teeth, red gums, difficulty eating, and foul-smelling breath. Regular tooth brushing, dental chews, and professional non-sedation teeth cleanings can help prevent plaque buildup. Good dental care is an important part of keeping dogs healthy and comfortable throughout their lives.
Errand Support for Seniors
Many seniors living at home face challenges with everyday errands that are essential for maintaining independence and quality of life. Tasks such as grocery shopping, prescription pickups, and appointments can become difficult due to mobility limitations, health concerns, or the inability to drive. ABC Home Support’s transportation and errand services help seniors stay independent while living safely at home. Whether accompanying clients on outings or handling errands on their behalf, our team provides reliable, respectful support tailored to individual needs. From shopping and prescription pickups to appointments and household essentials, we make daily tasks easier and give families greater peace of mind.
Summer Foot Care Tips
Summer brings more outdoor activities, sandals, and time spent on your feet, making foot health especially important. Warm weather can increase the risk of blisters, fungal infections, cracked heels, and foot pain caused by unsupportive footwear. Walking barefoot around pools, beaches, and public areas may also expose feet to infections and injuries. Podiatrists help prevent and treat common summer foot problems by assessing foot health, recommending proper footwear, and addressing concerns such as heel pain, bunions, and ingrown toenails. Regular foot care, good hygiene, and supportive shoes can help keep your feet comfortable, healthy, and active all summer long.
Move Toward Better Wellness
Self care is about creating a lifestyle that supports your physical, mental, and emotional well being. Sometimes that means making difficult but positive changes, including deciding to sell your home. If your current space feels overwhelming, requires too much maintenance, or no longer meets your needs, moving to a home that better fits your lifestyle can reduce stress and improve daily comfort. A fresh environment can provide opportunities for healthier routines, stronger social connections, and greater peace of mind. Prioritizing your wellness includes making choices that support balance, happiness, and long term quality of life, both inside and outside your home.
Self-Care Starts with Hearing
July 24 is Self-Care Day, a reminder to invest in your health and well-being. While many people focus on exercise, nutrition, and stress management, hearing health may be overlooked. Yet good hearing plays an important role in staying connected, maintaining relationships, supporting brain health, and enjoying everyday life. This month, make yourself a priority by booking a free hearing test. A simple hearing assessment can help identify changes early and give you peace of mind. Taking care of your hearing is an investment in your overall health, confidence, and quality of life. You deserve it.
50 Year Celebration
d’Esterre Seniors’ Centre invites the community to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Centre on Saturday, July 18, 4pm to 8pm at the Comox Marina Park gazebo (below the Centre). Bring a lawn chair to this family-friendly event which will feature a kids’ zone, burgers and hot dogs, live music by the Optimist and a beer garden.
Warm Weather, Higher Wart Risk
Summer activities can increase the risk of developing warts, especially plantar warts that appear on the soles of the feet. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which thrives in warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and public showers. Walking barefoot in these areas can make it easier for the virus to enter through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. To reduce your risk, wear sandals in public wet areas, keep feet clean and dry, and avoid sharing towels or footwear. If a wart develops, your pharmacist can recommend treatment options and prevention tips.
