The kids are back from camp, day programs and summer vacations are coming to an end. Shopping for school supplies and getting back into a routine are just around the corner.

Even if there are no little ones around the house many of our routines tend to be a bit more flexible in the summer months. Whether you are heading back to school, back to work, or have been at your desk all summer, now is a great time to come in for a check up and cleaning.

If we haven't seen your smile in a while, you can click here to request an appointment.

Are you headed off to school? Many universities and post secondary institutions offer health plans that include dental coverage. If you are enrolled in a post secondary program, remember to look into the coverage offered to you.

Here's a Summer Suggestion: During the warmer months it seems easier to gain momentum towards a healthier lifestyle. Interestingly, while the weather is still great for staying active outdoors, is often the best time to start planning for indoor activities. With the Olympics still in mind you may be inspired to add more activity into your life or even find a new sport that you want to try for yourself. If you have been thinking about joining a gym, a league or organized activity, it may be easier to work into your schedule now before the winter temperatures add an obstacle. Once an activity is in your routine you are more likely to keep it there! .

Wishing you a month filled with reasons to smile,

Dr. Larry Podolsky, Dr. Howard Rosen and staff.

MIND THE GAP? Do the gaps between your teeth make you self-conscious when you smile? Will braces get in the way of your lifestyle? Are repeat visits to our offices unlikely to fit your schedule? You can often eliminate embarrassing spaces without the intrusive nature of braces or other costly, time consuming procedures. Of the several procedural options available to you, one that may fit your budget, time constraints and needs is called bonding. Bonding has become a very common procedure and can usually be completed in one, short, comfortable visit. What is Bonding? Continue reading here.

SODA DRINKERS BEWARE! Sugar drinks such as sodas and pops have been getting a lot of attention lately. They are even considering warning label similar to cigarettes on their packaging. If you enjoy the occasional pop with lunch or during the work day here are some tips to limit the damage to your teeth. Try the sugar free versions, they are less likely to cause cavities (although they still damage enamel). Drink your pop during a meal. Drink through a straw (to minimize contact with teeth). Follow a pop with a good drink of water to rinse the mouth clean. Most importantly limit your pop consumption, remember that once it passes through your teeth, the rest of your body has to deal with it and that's a whole other story.