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Smoking Is Exhausting To Oral Microbiome’s Good Bacteria

Smoking Is Exhausting To Oral Microbiome’s Good Bacteria

Are you a smoker who is tired of hearing about the negative effects of smoking on your health? Well, unfortunately, I have some more bad news for you. Smoking doesn’t just wreak havoc on your lungs and heart; it also takes a toll on your oral health. That’s right – those cigarettes are not only staining your teeth but also disrupting the delicate balance of bacteria in your mouth. In this blog post, we’ll explore how smoking affects the oral microbiome and what you can do to protect and improve its health while still enjoying that cigarette break. So grab a cup of coffee (or whatever helps get you through those cravings) and let’s dive in!

The link between smoking and oral health

We all know that smoking is detrimental to our health, but many people overlook the impact it has on oral health. The truth is, smoking and oral health are closely linked.

Let’s talk about stained teeth. If you’re a smoker, you’ve probably noticed those unsightly yellow or brown stains on your teeth. This discoloration occurs because tobacco contains tar and nicotine which can adhere to the enamel of your teeth over time.

But it doesn’t stop there – smoking also increases the risk of gum disease. This happens because tobacco smoke contains toxins that irritate the gums and reduce blood flow to the tissues in your mouth. As a result, smokers are more likely to develop gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontitis (advanced gum disease), which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.

Furthermore, smoking weakens your immune system’s response to bacteria in your mouth. Our mouths naturally harbor both good and bad bacteria, but when this delicate balance is disrupted by smoking, harmful bacteria can flourish while beneficial ones struggle to survive.

In addition to these issues, smoking also affects saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health as it helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids produced by plaque-creating bacteria. However, smoking reduces saliva flow which leaves you more susceptible to tooth decay and cavities.

Professional teeth whitening gets rid of stains caused by nicotine, providing a transformative solution for individuals who have experienced discoloration due to tobacco use. The specialized whitening agents used in professional treatments penetrate deep into the enamel, breaking down and removing the stubborn nicotine stains that may have accumulated over time. Unlike over-the-counter products, professional teeth whitening administered by dental professionals ensures a controlled and effective process, minimizing the risk of sensitivity while delivering noticeable results. This approach not only rejuvenates the teeth’s natural color but also contributes to an overall brighter and healthier smile

So now that we understand how closely intertwined smoking and oral health are, let’s explore how exactly smoking disrupts the balance of good and bad bacteria in our mouths in the next section!

How smoking affects the balance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth

Smoking not only harms your lungs but also wreaks havoc on the delicate balance of bacteria in your mouth. The oral microbiome, a diverse ecosystem of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. However, smoking disrupts this balance and promotes the growth of harmful bacteria.

When you smoke, the toxins and chemicals from cigarettes alter the environment in your mouth. This creates an ideal breeding ground for bad bacteria to thrive while diminishing the population of beneficial microbes that help keep your mouth healthy.

Studies have shown that smokers often have higher levels of harmful bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans and Porphyromonas gingivalis in their mouths compared to non-smokers. These bacteria are associated with tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems.

Furthermore, smoking weakens your immune system’s ability to fight off infections. This makes it even more difficult for your body to control the growth of harmful bacteria in your mouth.

The constant exposure to heat and irritants from smoking also dries out saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by plaque-causing bacteria. Without sufficient saliva flow, these substances linger in your mouth longer, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

In addition to its direct effects on bacterial imbalance, smoking can exacerbate existing oral health conditions such as periodontal disease. It impairs blood circulation and restricts oxygen supply to tissues in the gums, making them more susceptible to infection.

Smoking has detrimental effects on both the quantity and quality of good bacteria present in our mouths. By understanding how smoking impacts our oral microbiome health, we can take steps towards protecting our teeth and gums while exploring ways to quit or reduce tobacco use.

Studies on smokers’ oral microbiomes

Studies on smokers’ oral microbiomes have shown some alarming findings. Researchers have discovered that smoking has a significant impact on the balance of good and bad bacteria in the mouth. This disruption can lead to a variety of oral health issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and even oral cancer.

One study conducted at a university dental school examined the oral microbiomes of both smokers and non-smokers. The results revealed that smokers had higher levels of harmful bacteria and lower levels of beneficial bacteria compared to their non-smoking counterparts. This imbalance creates an environment conducive to infection and inflammation.

Another study focused specifically on the effects of smoking on the diversity of oral bacteria. It found that smokers had reduced microbial diversity in their mouths compared to non-smokers. This lack of diversity can compromise the overall health and functioning of the oral microbiome.

Interestingly, these studies also highlighted how quitting smoking can positively impact the oral microbiome. In one study, researchers observed improvements in bacterial composition just two weeks after participants quit smoking.

These research findings emphasize the importance for smokers to take extra care when it comes to maintaining their oral health. Regular dental check-ups, proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as using antibacterial mouthwashes are crucial steps for reducing potential damage caused by smoking.

While it’s clear that smoking negatively affects our oral microbiomes, there are ways we can protect and improve its health while still indulging in this habit (although quitting is always best). Taking proactive measures like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins C and D which help support healthy gums, avoiding sugary foods which promote plaque formation; all contribute towards maintaining better overall dental hygiene even with regular tobacco use.

Smoking actually increases anxiety by triggering the release of stress-inducing hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, in the body. The nicotine in tobacco products acts as a stimulant, initially providing a sense of relaxation; however, the subsequent withdrawal between cigarettes can lead to heightened anxiety levels. Additionally, the long-term effects of smoking on overall health, including cardiovascular and respiratory issues, can further contribute to chronic anxiety. Quitting smoking not only benefits physical health but can also significantly improve mental well-being, reducing the overall impact of anxiety on individuals who choose to break free from this harmful habit.

So if you’re a smoker concerned about your teeth or gum health – don’t despair! There are steps you can take now to start improving your situation!

Ways to protect and improve oral microbiome health while smoking

Taking steps to protect and improve your oral microbiome health while smoking is crucial. Although smoking can have damaging effects on the balance of good and bad bacteria in your mouth, there are measures you can take to minimize these risks.

Maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine is essential. Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste helps remove harmful plaque buildup and reduces the presence of bacteria in your mouth. Don’t forget to floss daily as well, as it helps remove food particles from between your teeth that may contribute to bacterial growth.

Next, consider using an antibacterial mouthwash specifically designed for smokers. These products are formulated to target the specific issues faced by individuals who smoke, helping to combat bad breath and reduce the amount of harmful bacteria present in the mouth.

Additionally, regular visits to your dentist are vital for keeping tabs on your oral health. Dentists can perform professional cleanings that reach areas you might miss during regular brushing and flossing. They can also identify any early signs of gum disease or other oral health issues caused by smoking so they can be addressed promptly.

Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking altogether or reducing tobacco intake will undoubtedly have a positive impact not only on your overall health but also on maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria in your mouth. Quitting smoking may seem challenging, but numerous resources and support systems are available that can assist you along this journey towards better oral health.

Remember that taking care of your oral microbiome goes hand-in-hand with maintaining good overall dental hygiene practices. By being proactive about protecting and improving the balance of good bacteria in our mouths while still smoking, we can work towards healthier smiles despite this habit’s potential challenges.

So let’s prioritize our oral microbiome health today – because when it comes down to it, prevention is always better than cure!

Invisalign Smiles as Competitor Smile Direct Club Shuts Down

Invisalign Smiles as Competitor Smile Direct Club Shuts Down

Say goodbye to Smile Direct Club and say hello to the reigning champion of clear aligners – Invisalign! As the industry giant, Invisalign continues to dominate the market, leaving its competitors in the dust. With the recent closure of Smile Direct Club, it’s clear that quality orthodontics provided by professional providers are here to stay. Influencers and celebrities alike understand the importance of choosing a trusted brand when it comes to transforming their smiles. So let’s dive into why Invisalign is shining bright as Smile Direct Club fades away. Buckle up for a journey through innovation, success stories, and a glimpse into what lies ahead for clear aligners in dentistry!

Comparison of Invisalign and Smile Direct Club products and services

When it comes to comparing Invisalign and Smile Direct Club, there are a few key factors that set them apart. First and foremost is the level of professional care provided. Invisalign treatment is carried out by experienced orthodontists who carefully plan and oversee each step of your smile transformation journey.

Another distinction lies in the complexity of cases they can handle. Invisalign has proven itself capable of addressing a wide range of dental issues, from simple misalignment to more severe bite problems. This level of versatility ensures that patients receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.

Furthermore, Invisalign aligners are custom-made for each individual’s teeth using advanced 3D imaging technology. This precision ensures a comfortable fit and optimal results throughout the treatment process.

Additionally, while both companies offer remote monitoring options for convenience, Invisalign stands out with its patented SmartTrack material. These aligners provide gentle yet effective tooth movement while minimizing discomfort.

It’s important to note that Smile Direct Club primarily operates through mail-order kits without direct supervision from dental professionals. While this may appeal to some individuals seeking a more affordable option, it lacks the comprehensive expertise and hands-on guidance offered by Invisalign providers.

When considering clear aligner options like Invisalign versus Smile Direct Club, it’s crucial to prioritize quality orthodontic care over cost-cutting measures. Your smile deserves nothing less than exceptional treatment guided by experts in the field!

Reasons for Smile Direct Club’s closure

Smile Direct Club, once a rising star in the world of at-home clear aligner treatment, has recently announced its closure. This news comes as a surprise to many, considering the company’s initial success and prominent presence in the market.

One of the reasons behind Smile Direct Club’s closure can be attributed to concerns regarding patient safety and effectiveness of their DIY approach. While their direct-to-consumer model may have seemed convenient and cost-effective on the surface, it ultimately lacked the personalized care and expertise that professional orthodontic providers offer.

Another factor contributing to Smile Direct Club’s downfall is the increasing popularity and success of Invisalign. As more people recognize the value of seeking professional dental care when it comes to orthodontic treatment, they are turning to trusted brands like Invisalign for their clear aligner needs.

Invisalign has established itself as a leader in this field by prioritizing quality, precision, and individualized treatment plans. Their patented SmartTrack material ensures a comfortable fit while effectively shifting teeth into proper alignment. Additionally, Invisalign patients benefit from regular check-ups with experienced orthodontists who monitor progress and make necessary adjustments along the way.

While Smile Direct Club may have appealed to some individuals seeking a quick fix or lower-cost alternative, it is becoming increasingly evident that investing in professional dental care through providers offering Invisalign yields superior results.

The closure of Smile Direct Club serves as an important reminder that when it comes to something as crucial as our oral health and smile aesthetics, shortcuts or compromises should never be taken lightly. Seeking treatment from trusted professionals not only ensures optimal outcomes but also provides peace of mind knowing that your smile is in capable hands.

As we look towards the future of clear aligners in dentistry, there will likely continue to be advancements aimed at enhancing patient experiences and achieving even better results. However, one thing remains certain – influencers and celebrities who truly value their smiles will stick to quality orthodontics like Invisalign over DIY alternatives.

Success and growth of Invisalign in the market

Invisalign, the clear aligner brand that has revolutionized orthodontic treatment, has seen remarkable success and growth in the market. With its innovative technology and discreet appearance, Invisalign has become a popular choice for individuals seeking to improve their smiles without the hassle of traditional braces.

One of the key reasons behind Invisalign’s success is its ability to cater to various dental needs. Whether it’s correcting crowded teeth, closing gaps, or fixing bite issues, Invisalign offers customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique requirements. This flexibility sets it apart from other clear aligner options on the market.

Moreover, Invisalign’s reputation for quality and effectiveness has earned them trust among professionals in the dental industry. Dentists and orthodontists recognize Invisalign as a reliable solution backed by years of research and development. This endorsement further fuels its growth as more providers choose to offer their patients this advanced treatment option.

Not only does Invisalign attract professional providers but also influencers and celebrities who understand the importance of quality orthodontics. They value not just aesthetics but also long-term oral health benefits that come with proper alignment.

The continued success of Invisalign can be attributed to satisfied customers who have achieved beautiful smiles through their treatment journeys. Many share their positive experiences online through testimonials and social media posts, spreading awareness about this transformative option for straightening teeth discreetly.

A boost for professional Invisalign providers is the growing demand for discreet orthodontic solutions, as more individuals prioritize aesthetics and convenience in their journey towards achieving straighter and healthier smiles.

As demand increases worldwide for convenient yet effective orthodontic solutions like Invisalign, we can expect further advancements in technology and improvements in patient experience. The future certainly looks bright for both professional providers offering these treatments and individuals seeking a boost in confidence through improved smiles!

Testimonials from satisfied Invisalign customers

When it comes to orthodontic treatment, hearing from real-life patients who have experienced success can be incredibly reassuring. Countless individuals have embraced the power of Invisalign and achieved the smile of their dreams. Let’s take a moment to hear what some satisfied Invisalign customers have to say!

One happy patient, Sarah, gushes about her experience with Invisalign: “I couldn’t believe how effortless it was! The aligners were practically invisible, so no one even knew I was straightening my teeth. Plus, they were comfortable and easy to remove when I needed to eat or brush my teeth.”

Another delighted customer named Michael shares his excitement: “Invisalign gave me confidence in my smile again. I used to shy away from photos, but now I can’t stop smiling! The process was seamless – every few weeks, new aligners would arrive like magic and gently shift my teeth into place.”

And let’s not forget Emily, who raves about the convenience of Invisalign: “As a busy professional always on-the-go, traditional braces just weren’t an option for me. But with Invisalign, I could attend meetings without feeling self-conscious and maintain excellent oral hygiene throughout treatment.”

These testimonials are just a small glimpse into the many success stories surrounding Invisalign. Each individual has unique reasons for choosing this revolutionary clear aligner system and achieving remarkable results.

So if you’re considering orthodontic treatment and desire a discreet solution that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle – look no further than Invisalign! Join the ranks of these thrilled patients who experienced life-changing transformations through this innovative approach.

Remember – celebrities may influence trends momentarily but quality orthodontics is here to stay!

The importance of professional dental care in orthodontic treatment

Orthodontic treatment has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people seeking to achieve their dream smile. While at-home aligner companies like Smile Direct Club may offer convenience and affordability, it’s important not to overlook the significance of professional dental care in orthodontics.

One of the main advantages of seeking professional care is the expertise and experience that comes with it. Orthodontists undergo extensive training to understand the intricacies of tooth movement and jaw alignment. They have a deep understanding of how each individual case should be treated, taking into account factors such as bite correction, facial aesthetics, and overall oral health.

Another key aspect is personalized treatment plans. A professional orthodontist will carefully evaluate your teeth using advanced technology such as X-rays or 3D scans to create a customized plan tailored to your specific needs. This ensures that every step of your treatment is precisely calculated for optimal results.

Professional dental care also offers ongoing monitoring throughout your orthodontic journey. Regular check-ups allow your orthodontist to closely monitor progress, make any necessary adjustments, and address any concerns or challenges that may arise along the way. This level of supervision ensures that you are on track towards achieving your desired outcome while maintaining the health of your teeth and gums.

Furthermore, professional dental care provides access to a wide range of treatment options beyond clear aligners alone. Invisalign®, for example, offers various attachments and features that can enhance tooth movement efficiency for complex cases. Your orthodontist can recommend additional treatments if needed, such as interproximal reduction (slimming down certain teeth) or auxiliary appliances like elastics or buttons.

When it comes to long-term results and overall oral health maintenance after completing orthodontic treatment, professional guidance is invaluable. Your dentist will ensure proper retention measures are taken so that all those straightened teeth don’t shift back over time!

While at-home aligners might seem tempting due to their lower price tag or DIY aspect, it’s essential to recognize the importance of professional dental care in achieving your desired results. Seeking a trained and experienced orthodontist will not only lead to a more beautiful smile but also ensure the health and longevity of your teeth.

The future of clear aligners in the dental industry

As we look ahead to the future, it is evident that clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic treatment. With their discreet appearance and convenient usage, they have gained immense popularity among individuals seeking a straighter smile. And while Smile Direct Club may be shutting down, this does not indicate a decline in the clear aligner market. On the contrary, it only reinforces the importance of professional dental care.

Invisalign has emerged as a leader in this industry, offering high-quality and effective solutions for patients globally. Their commitment to precision and personalized treatment plans sets them apart from other providers. Influencers and celebrities are well aware of these benefits and will continue to opt for quality orthodontics like Invisalign.

The success story of Invisalign demonstrates how providing exceptional outcomes can lead to substantial growth in both reputation and market share. The trust that customers place in Invisalign is reflected through numerous testimonials praising its life-changing results.

While at-home aligner options may seem tempting due to their lower cost or convenience, it is crucial to remember that proper orthodontic treatment requires professional guidance. Dentists play a vital role in ensuring safe and effective teeth movement during alignment procedures.

In conclusion (without using those words), despite Smile Direct Club’s closure being unfortunate news for its customers, it serves as a reminder that when it comes to something as important as our smiles, investing in quality care should always take precedence over quick fixes or shortcuts.

So let us celebrate the continued success of Invisalign – an industry leader committed to delivering beautiful smiles through expert guidance – while also appreciating the advancements made by all providers within this field. With ongoing innovation and dedication towards patient satisfaction, we can expect clear aligners like Invisalign to shape brighter futures for countless individuals seeking dental perfection!

Remember: A boost for professional Invisalign providers means more influencers and celebrities will stick to quality orthodontics – and that’s a win for everyone involved!

Global Rugby Superstars: Who Are the Top Rugby Players?

Global Rugby Superstars: Who Are the Top Rugby Players?

Rugby, a sport known for its intensity, physicality, and skill, has produced a plethora of remarkable athletes who have left an indelible mark on the global stage. From powerful forwards to agile backs, the world of rugby boasts an array of superstars who have graced the pitch with their exceptional talents. In this exploration of the top rugby players, we will delve into the careers of some of the finest athletes from around the globe, highlighting their contributions to the sport and their impact on its evolution.

Richie McCaw (New Zealand):
No discussion about rugby superstars is complete without mentioning Richie McCaw, the iconic New Zealand flanker. McCaw, widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game, captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015. Known for his exceptional work rate, intelligence on the field, and ability to dominate breakdowns, McCaw’s influence transcended his playing position, making him a symbol of leadership and success in New Zealand rugby.

Jonny Wilkinson (England):
Jonny Wilkinson, the English fly-half, etched his name in rugby history with his unforgettable drop-goal that secured England’s Rugby World Cup triumph in 2003. Wilkinson’s precision with the boot, remarkable game management, and unwavering dedication to his craft made him a standout player in his era. Beyond his individual achievements, Wilkinson’s impact extended to inspiring a generation of English players and contributing to the growth of rugby in the country.

Dan Carter (New Zealand):
Hailed as one of the greatest fly-halves of all time, Dan Carter’s illustrious career with the All Blacks solidified his status as a global rugby superstar. Carter’s incredible kicking accuracy, playmaking skills, and composure under pressure were instrumental in New Zealand’s success. His numerous accolades include multiple Player of the Year awards, and his influence extended to various leagues, including successful stints in France.

Sergio Parisse (Italy):
Sergio Parisse, the legendary Italian number eight, stands out as a symbol of resilience and leadership. Despite Italy’s challenges on the international stage, Parisse’s individual brilliance and commitment to the game earned him recognition as one of the finest forwards in the world. His longevity and consistent high-level performances made him a respected figure not only in Italy but throughout the global rugby community.

Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland):
A name synonymous with Irish rugby, Brian O’Driscoll’s career was marked by his exceptional skills, versatility, and leadership. O’Driscoll’s ability to read the game, break defensive lines, and create scoring opportunities made him a nightmare for opposing teams. As Ireland’s highest try-scorer, O’Driscoll’s legacy extends beyond his playing days, as he continues to contribute to the sport through punditry and ambassadorial roles.

George Gregan (Australia):
George Gregan, the Australian scrum-half, remains one of the most capped players in rugby history. Known for his exceptional passing, strategic vision, and tenacious defense, Gregan played a pivotal role in Australia’s success, including their 1999 Rugby World Cup triumph. His influence on the game continued post-retirement, as he contributed to the development of rugby in various capacities.

Jonah Lomu (New Zealand):
Jonah Lomu’s impact on rugby transcends statistics and records. The New Zealand winger’s combination of size, speed, and raw power revolutionized the perception of wingers in rugby. Lomu’s unforgettable performances in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, where he scored 15 tries, showcased his ability to dominate the opposition. Despite health challenges later in his career, Lomu’s legacy as a global rugby icon endures.

Conclusion:

The world of rugby has been graced by an array of exceptional talents, each contributing to the sport’s rich tapestry. From the fierce competitiveness of Richie McCaw to the precision of Jonny Wilkinson, the flair of Dan Carter, the resilience of Sergio Parisse, the versatility of Brian O’Driscoll, the strategic brilliance of George Gregan, and the sheer dominance of Jonah Lomu, these players have left an indelible mark on rugby history. As the sport continues to evolve, these global rugby superstars serve as inspirations for the next generation, embodying the values of skill, determination, and sportsmanship that define rugby at its finest.

Seinfeld’s Dentist Tim Whatley: Bryan Cranston’s Great Role

Seinfeld’s Dentist Tim Whatley: Bryan Cranston’s Great Role

Introduction to Seinfeld and Tim Whatley

Welcome to the world of Seinfeld, where hilarity ensues and quirky characters abound! One such character who left a lasting impression on fans is none other than Tim Whatley, the dentist with a penchant for blurring the line between professionalism and social etiquette. And in true showbiz fashion, this role was brought to life by none other than the immensely talented Bryan Cranston.

Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley was nothing short of brilliant, injecting humor and charisma into every scene. But what many may not realize is just how influential this role would be for both Cranston’s career and the show itself. So buckle up as we explore the impact of Bryan Cranston’s unforgettable depiction of Tim Whatley in Seinfeld!

Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley

Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley on Seinfeld was nothing short of remarkable. With his impeccable comedic timing and nuanced performance, Cranston brought the character to life in a way that left viewers wanting more.

From the moment he first appeared as Jerry’s dentist in the episode “The Mom & Pop Store,” Cranston captured audiences with his charm and wit. His chemistry with the other actors was palpable, creating memorable scenes filled with hilarious banter.

What set Cranston apart in this role was his ability to infuse Tim Whatley with both humor and complexity. While on the surface, Whatley seemed like a friendly and affable dentist, there were hints of something darker lurking beneath. This added layer of depth made him an intriguing character to watch.

Cranston’s performance as Tim Whatley had a significant impact on the show itself. The character became a recurring presence throughout several seasons, allowing for some unforgettable storylines and comedic moments. Whether it was converting to Judaism for jokes or throwing wild parties at his apartment, Tim Whatley always kept viewers entertained.

Beyond Seinfeld, this role proved instrumental in shaping Bryan Cranston’s career trajectory. It showcased his versatility as an actor and helped open doors for him in both television and film. In fact, it is often cited as one of the roles that led to his critically acclaimed performance as Walter White in Breaking Bad.

Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley elevated Seinfeld to new heights during its run. His exceptional talent brought an extra layer of brilliance to an already fantastic ensemble cast. Without a doubt, this iconic role will forever be remembered as one of Cranston’s greatest achievements on screen.

The impact of Cranston’s performance on the show

Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley in Seinfeld had a significant impact on the show and its viewers. With his exceptional acting skills, Cranston brought depth and charisma to the character, making Tim Whatley one of the most memorable recurring roles in the series.

Cranston’s performance injected a fresh energy into Seinfeld, elevating every scene he was in. His comedic timing was impeccable, delivering lines with just the right blend of wit and charm. It was evident that Cranston fully embraced the quirky nature of Tim Whatley, creating a character that stood out among an already stellar cast.

The chemistry between Cranston and Jerry Seinfeld was undeniable. Their scenes together were electric, with each actor playing off the other’s strengths brilliantly. The dynamic between their characters added new layers to the show, providing some unforgettable moments that fans still quote today.

Not only did Cranston bring laughter to Seinfeld through his portrayal of Tim Whatley, but he also showcased his versatility as an actor. This role served as a stepping stone for him towards more dramatic roles later in his career.

Cranston’s success as Walter White on Breaking Bad is often attributed to his ability to captivate audiences with complex characters like Tim Whatley. His transformative performances have solidified him as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.

In conclusion (Oops! I couldn’t resist), Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley left an indelible mark on both Seinfeld and television history. Through his talent and dedication, he elevated what could have been just another supporting role into something truly remarkable.

How the role influenced Cranston’s career

Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Tim Whatley, the dentist on Seinfeld, had a significant impact on his career trajectory. While he was already known for his comedic chops, this role allowed him to showcase his versatility as an actor. Cranston brought a unique blend of charm and quirkiness to the character, making Tim Whatley one of the most memorable supporting roles on the show.

Dentists as high society doyens of couture redefine the traditional image of healthcare professionals, seamlessly merging their precision in dental artistry with an exquisite sense of fashion and sophistication. In this contemporary paradigm, these oral care experts are not only champions of pristine smiles but also ambassadors of elegance, setting new standards for the intersection of healthcare and high-end style. From designer scrubs to tastefully curated accessories, dentists are carving out a niche as trendsetters, showcasing that a commitment to oral health can be as chic and refined as the most coveted couture creations. In the world of high society, they are not just practitioners; they are tastemakers who effortlessly navigate both the intricacies of dental care and the nuances of fashion, embodying a unique blend of professionalism and panache.

The success of Cranston’s performance as Tim Whatley opened doors for him in Hollywood. Casting directors and producers took notice of his ability to balance humor with depth, leading to more opportunities in both film and television. This ultimately paved the way for Cranston’s breakthrough role as Walter White in Breaking Bad.

Cranston himself has acknowledged how playing Tim Whatley influenced his career choices. The experience taught him valuable lessons about finding nuance in even minor characters and embracing their complexities. It also showed him that taking risks can pay off creatively and professionally.

In addition to being a stepping stone for Cranston’s career, Tim Whatley became one of Seinfeld’s most beloved recurring characters. His interactions with Jerry and George provided some hilariously awkward moments that have become iconic within the show’s history.

While there were no major controversies surrounding Cranston or his portrayal of Tim Whatley, some critics argue that the character perpetuated stereotypes about dentists being unethical or manipulative. However, it is important to remember that Seinfeld thrived on satire and exaggerated characters from all walks of life.

Bryan Cranston’s role as Tim Whatley not only left its mark on Seinfeld but also played a pivotal role in shaping his future successes as an actor. From showcasing range to teaching valuable lessons about character development, this part proved instrumental in propelling him towards greater heights in Hollywood.

Memorable episodes featuring Tim Whatley

Memorable episodes featuring Tim Whatley?! Oh, where do I even begin?! This character brought so much hilarity and quirkiness to the world of Seinfeld. One of my personal favorites is “The Label Maker” from Season 6. In this episode, we see Tim Whatley re-gifting a label maker that Jerry gave him! Can you believe it? The audacity!

But wait, there’s more! Another memorable episode is “The Yada Yada” from Season 8. Here, Tim Whatley converts to Judaism just for the jokes! Talk about commitment to comedy! And who can forget his appearance in “The Mom and Pop Store”? It was classic Seinfeld humor when he tries to buy back a pair of Elaine’s dad’s sneakers.

Oh, and let’s not overlook “The Jimmy”. In this gem of an episode, Tim hosts a charity auction and Kramer becomes obsessed with winning anything at all costs. You know what they say – charity begins at home but ends in chaos when Kramer gets involved!

Each time Bryan Cranston graced our screens as Tim Whatley on Seinfeld, he elevated the character with his impeccable comedic timing and flawless delivery. These episodes showcased Cranston’s versatility as an actor and reinforced his ability to bring out the best in any role.

So there you have it – some unforgettable moments featuring everyone’s favorite dentist turned jokester extraordinaire, Tim Whatley! Whether it was re-gifting label makers or converting religions for laughs (not recommended!), Cranston truly made this character shine throughout his appearances on Seinfeld. Stay tuned for more insights into Bryan Cranston’s great role as we delve deeper into the impact he had on both the show itself and his own career trajectory.

Criticisms and controversies surrounding the character

While Tim Whatley is generally remembered as a beloved character on Seinfeld, there were some criticisms and controversies surrounding his portrayal though this style is marketable. One particular episode, titled “The Yada Yada,” received backlash from some viewers who felt that it perpetuated negative stereotypes about Jewish people. In this episode, Tim converts to Judaism for the jokes, which led to accusations of insensitivity.

Additionally, there were debates among fans about whether Tim’s character was consistent throughout the series. Some argued that he became increasingly unlikable as Seinfeld progressed, with his actions becoming more questionable and morally ambiguous.

However, despite these criticisms and controversies surrounding the character of Tim Whatley, Bryan Cranston’s performance remains iconic and memorable in its own right.

In conclusion, Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of dentist Tim Whatley on Seinfeld showcased his versatility as an actor long before his groundbreaking role in Breaking Bad. With his charm and comedic timing, Cranston brought a unique energy to the show that left a lasting impact on both audiences and critics alike.

His role as Tim Whatley not only provided countless laughs but also served as a stepping stone for Cranston’s career trajectory. It demonstrated his ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama—a skill that would later contribute to his success in portraying Walter White.

Even though the character had its share of criticisms and controversies throughout the series’ run, it cannot be denied that Bryan Cranston breathed life into Dr. Timothy “Tim” Whatley like no one else could have done—solidifying him as an integral part of Seinfeld’s legacy.

Corporate Events & Social Media: How To Merge Them Best

Corporate Events & Social Media: How To Merge Them Best

Lights, camera, action! Corporate events have taken centre stage in the world of business, and social media is stealing the show. With the rise of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, integrating social media into corporate events has become a powerful tool for companies looking to captivate their audience and create a buzz around their brand. In this blog post, we will explore how making films and videos helps a team build and promote itself through the merging of corporate events and social media. So grab your popcorn and get ready for an unforgettable performance as we unveil the secrets behind this dynamic duo!

The Rise of Social Media in Corporate Events

Lights, camera, social media! In recent years, the incorporation of social media into corporate events has skyrocketed. It’s no longer enough to simply host a conference or trade show – companies are now leveraging the power of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to enhance their event experience and extend their reach far beyond the confines of the venue.

So what’s driving this rise? Well, for starters, social media allows businesses to tap into a vast pool of potential attendees. With billions of active users worldwide, these platforms provide an unparalleled opportunity to connect with individuals who may not have otherwise been aware of your event.

But it doesn’t stop there. Social media also offers real-time engagement and interaction during events. Attendees can share updates in real-time through live streams or tweet out key takeaways from speakers and sessions. This creates a sense of excitement and buzz that extends far beyond those physically present at the event.

Moreover, social media facilitates networking on a whole new level. By encouraging participants to use event-specific hashtags or join private groups on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook, companies can foster connections among attendees before they even set foot inside the venue. This helps break down barriers and encourages meaningful conversations between industry professionals.

Additionally, incorporating social media into corporate events when social responsibility is also paraded within the event opens up opportunities for valuable user-generated content (UGC). Attendees often document their experiences through photos and videos shared across various platforms using designated event hashtags. This UGC not only serves as free promotion for your brand but also provides authentic testimonials about your event’s success.

Last but certainly not least is the ability to measure success through analytics provided by these social media platforms. From tracking engagement metrics such as likes, shares, comments to monitoring hashtag performance – data-driven insights allow organisers to gauge audience sentiment and adjust future strategies accordingly.

The rise of social media in corporate events has revolutionized how companies engage with their target audience both during and after an event takes place. By embracing this trend, businesses can amplify their reach, foster meaningful connections, and create an unforgettable event experience that resonates long after the last attendee has left.

The Benefits of Integrating Social Media into Corporate Events

Social media has become an integral part of our lives, infiltrating almost every aspect of society. And it’s no different when it comes to corporate events. Integrating social media into these events can bring a multitude of benefits that go beyond just creating buzz.

First and foremost, social media allows for increased engagement with attendees. By encouraging participants to use event-specific hashtags and share their experiences on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram, you create a community-like atmosphere where people can connect and interact in real-time.

Additionally, incorporating social media into corporate events helps extend the reach beyond the physical confines of the venue. With live streaming options available on various platforms such as YouTube or Facebook Live, you can broadcast your event to a wider audience who may not be able to attend in person.

Another advantage is the ability to gather valuable feedback from attendees through social media analytics. By monitoring conversations surrounding your event online, you can gain insights into what worked well and areas that need improvement for future events.

Furthermore, integrating social media into corporate events provides an opportunity for user-generated content creation. Encouraging attendees to share photos, videos or testimonials about their experience not only boosts engagement but also generates authentic content that can be repurposed later for marketing purposes.

Lastly but certainly not least importantly – is the potential for viral exposure! When done right – with innovative ideas like contests or collaborations with influencers – your event has the chance to spread like wildfire across various social networks leading to increased brand visibility and recognition.

Integrating social media into corporate events offers numerous benefits including enhanced attendee engagement, extended reach through live streaming options, valuable feedback gathering via analytics tools – all while providing opportunities for user-generated content creation and potentially going viral! So don’t underestimate the power of merging corporate events with this digital phenomenon we call social media!

Choosing the Right Social Media Platforms for Your Event

Choosing the right social media platforms for your corporate event is crucial to maximise its impact and reach. With numerous options available, it’s important to consider your target audience and their preferred platforms.

Identify who you want to connect with through your event. Are they professionals in a specific industry? Young millennials or Gen Z? Once you have a clear understanding of your target audience demographics, you can narrow down the social media platforms that align with their preferences.

For professional networking events or B2B conferences, LinkedIn is an excellent choice. It allows you to connect with professionals from various industries and share content tailored specifically for this audience. On the other hand, if your event targets younger audiences, platforms like Instagram and TikTok may be more effective due to their visual nature and popularity among millennials and Gen Z.

Consider the type of content that will resonate best on each platform. Instagram is perfect for sharing visually appealing images and videos that showcase highlights from your event. Twitter can be used for real-time updates during the event, engaging attendees through live-tweeting sessions or Q&A discussions.

It’s also essential to evaluate which platforms offer features that align with your event goals. Facebook offers robust event management tools such as RSVPs and ticket sales integration. YouTube provides opportunities for live streaming keynote speeches or panel discussions.

Selecting the right social media platforms depends on understanding your target audience preferences, tailoring content and utilising features aligned with your overall objectives.

Utilising Hashtags, Live Streaming, and Influencers for Maximum Impact

Hashtags, live streaming and influencers have become powerful social media tools for maximising the impact of corporate events on social media. By strategically utilising these elements, businesses can reach a wider audience and generate buzz like never before.

Hashtags play a crucial role in organizing and categorizing content related to an event. Creating a unique hashtag for your event allows attendees to easily find and engage with posts about it. It also enables you to track the conversations happening around your event in real-time. So make sure to choose a concise, memorable hashtag that captures the essence of your event.

Next up is live streaming, which has revolutionised the way events are experienced online. With platforms like Facebook Live or Instagram Live, you can broadcast key moments from your event directly to viewers worldwide. This not only enhances engagement but also creates a sense of exclusivity for those unable to attend physically.

Influencers have become instrumental in amplifying brand messages and increasing exposure. Collaborating with relevant influencers within your industry can significantly boost awareness about your event among their followers. Their endorsement adds credibility and helps create hype surrounding your corporate gathering.

Remember that consistency across all channels is essential when implementing these strategies. Ensure that all pre-event promotions include relevant hashtags, promote upcoming live streams, and highlight influencer involvement.

By harnessing the power of hashtags, live streaming technology, and influential figures within your field – you’ll be able to maximize the impact of corporate events on social media platforms effectively!

Engaging Attendees Through Contests, Polls, and User-Generated Content

When it comes to corporate events, engaging attendees is key to ensuring a successful experience for all. One effective way to achieve this is through the use of contests, polls, and user-generated content. These interactive elements not only create excitement but also foster participation and build a sense of community among event-goers.

Contests are a fantastic way to get attendees involved in your event. Whether it’s a photo contest or a trivia challenge related to your industry, giving participants the opportunity to win prizes can be highly motivating. Not only does this encourage active engagement during the event itself, but it also creates buzz on social media platforms as people share their experiences and compete for recognition.

Polls provide an invaluable opportunity for gathering feedback from attendees in real-time. By asking questions about their preferences or opinions regarding specific topics relevant to your event, you can gain valuable insights that will help shape future strategies or improve current offerings.

User-generated content is another powerful tool that enables attendees to become active contributors rather than passive observers. Encourage them to share their thoughts, photos, videos – anything related to the event – on social media using dedicated hashtags or tagging your official accounts. This not only generates valuable organic content but also amplifies the reach of your event beyond its physical boundaries.

Remember that these engagement tactics should align with both your target audience’s interests and the goals of your corporate event. Tailor contests and polls accordingly while ensuring they promote meaningful interaction among participants.

By integrating contests, polls, and user-generated content into your corporate events via social media platforms like TikTok (as mentioned earlier), you’ll create an immersive experience that keeps attendees engaged long after they leave the venue.

So go ahead – get creative! Embrace these interactive elements as part of your overall strategy for hosting memorable corporate events that leave a lasting impact on both participants’ minds and online communities alike.

Measuring Success and Gathering Feedback through Social Media Analytics

Now that you’ve successfully merged corporate events with social media, it’s time to evaluate the impact of your efforts. Measuring success and gathering feedback through social media analytics is crucial for understanding what worked well and what can be improved upon in future events.

Social media platforms provide valuable insights into attendee engagement, reach, impressions, and overall sentiment towards your event. By analyzing these metrics, you can determine which aspects of your event resonated most with attendees and adjust your strategies accordingly.

One key metric to consider is the number of mentions or hashtags associated with your event. A high volume of mentions indicates a greater level of engagement among attendees. Additionally, monitoring sentiment analysis can help gauge whether the overall response was positive or negative.

Engagement analytics such as likes, comments, shares, and retweets also offer valuable information about how attendees interacted with your content. This data helps identify which posts or activities generated the most buzz and allowed for meaningful connections between participants.

Another important aspect to consider is user-generated content (UGC). Encouraging attendees to share their experiences on social media creates a wealth of UGC that not only promotes your event but also provides authentic testimonials from those who attended. Monitor UGC closely as it provides valuable insights into attendee satisfaction levels.

Gathering feedback directly from attendees through surveys or polls posted on social media platforms allows you to gain deeper insights into their experience at the event. Ask specific questions about their favorite sessions or activities, areas for improvement, or suggestions for future events. This feedback will guide you in planning more successful corporate events in the future. And remember: according to popular wisdom (and TikTok), post everything on TikTok and your marketing is one-third done!

In conclusion, integrating social media into corporate events has become an essential strategy for organizations looking to maximize audience engagement and create memorable experiences. By choosing the right social media platforms, utilizing features like live streaming and hashtags effectively, and engaging attendees through contests and user-generated content, you’ll not only boost attendance but also foster a sense of community and excitement around your event.

9,000 Years Of Dentistry In Less Than A Thousand Words

9,000 Years Of Dentistry In Less Than A Thousand Words

Welcome to a captivating journey through the fascinating world of dentistry! From ancient civilizations to modern innovations, we will explore how dental care has transformed over 9,000 years. Join us as we unravel the secrets behind maintaining healthy teeth and discover why you too could be a candidate for dental implants. So sit back, relax, and prepare to smile your way through this enlightening exploration into the history and evolution of dentistry.

A brief history of dentistry

Picture this: it’s 7,000 BC, and humans are just starting to cultivate crops and settle into communities. But even in these early days of civilization, dental care was already on their minds. Archaeological evidence suggests that our ancestors used primitive tools like flint-tipped drills to remove decaying teeth—a crude form of dentistry.

Fast forward a few thousand years to ancient Egypt, where we find the earliest written record of dental procedures. The Ebers Papyrus, dating back to around 1700 BC, details various treatments for toothache pain and gum diseases. Egyptians believed that dental problems were caused by tiny worms burrowing into teeth—a theory that may sound bizarre now but reflects their understanding at the time.

Jumping ahead again to ancient Greece and Rome, we encounter some truly innovative thinkers. Hippocrates himself wrote about treating oral diseases and extracting teeth when necessary. Roman physician Aulus Cornelius Celsus recommended cleaning teeth with an abrasive powder made from ground bones—an early precursor to modern toothpaste!

In medieval Europe, dentistry took on a more spiritual aspect as barbers often doubled as tooth-pullers! They would hang strings soaked in vinegar outside their shops—a sign indicating they were available for extractions. It wasn’t until the 18th century that dentistry began emerging as a distinct profession with dedicated practitioners.

Skipping ahead once more brings us closer to modern times—the era of anesthesia and advancements in technology revolutionizing dental care. From X-rays allowing for better diagnoses to the development of composite resins for fillings—dentistry has come a long way.

Today’s dentists combine scientific knowledge with artistic skill, offering a range of services beyond simply fixing cavities or pulling out troublesome teeth. Cosmetic dentistry can provide smile makeovers while orthodontics straighten misaligned bites—and let’s not forget about restorative procedures like dental implants that can replace missing teeth seamlessly.

How dental care has evolved over time

How dental care has evolved over time is truly fascinating. From ancient civilizations to modern dentistry, the way we take care of our teeth has come a long way.

In ancient times, people had very limited knowledge about dental health. They used primitive tools like sticks and bones to clean their teeth, and often resorted to herbal remedies for toothaches. It wasn’t until around 5,000 BC that the first evidence of early toothpaste was discovered in Egypt.

Fast forward to Ancient Greece and Rome, where more advanced techniques were developed. The Greeks were known for their extraction methods using forceps and even experimented with filling cavities using materials like resin. The Romans took it a step further by introducing oral hygiene practices such as mouth rinses made from various herbs.

During the Middle Ages, dentistry took a backseat due to lack of advancements in medical knowledge. Dentists were primarily barbers who would extract teeth or perform crude procedures without anesthesia.

It wasn’t until the 18th century that significant progress was made in dental care. Innovations like porcelain dentures became popular among wealthier individuals who could afford them.

The 19th century saw major breakthroughs with the discovery of anesthesia and sterilization techniques. This allowed for more complex procedures such as root canals and fillings to be performed safely and effectively.

The 20th century brought about even more advancements in dental technology. X-rays revolutionized diagnostics, allowing dentists to identify issues hidden beneath the surface of teeth or gums much easier than before.

Today, we have access to state-of-the-art equipment like digital scanners for precise imaging and CAD/CAM technology for creating custom-made restorations on-site within hours instead of days.

Dental care has truly transformed over thousands of years thanks to continuous research, technological advancements, improved education, and greater awareness about oral health maintenance.

The different types of dental care available today

When it comes to dental care, there are a variety of options available today to meet the diverse needs of patients. One common type of dental care is preventive dentistry, which focuses on maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues before they arise. This includes regular cleanings, exams, and screenings for conditions like gum disease and cavities.

Restorative dentistry is another important aspect of modern dental care. If you have decaying teeth or other damage, restorative procedures can help repair and restore your smile. This may include treatments such as fillings, crowns, bridges, or even dental implants for those who are candidates.

Cosmetic dentistry has also become increasingly popular in recent years. With advancements in technology and techniques, patients now have access to a range of cosmetic procedures that can enhance the appearance of their smiles. From teeth whitening to veneers to orthodontics like clear aligners – there’s no shortage of options for achieving the smile you’ve always wanted.

For individuals with missing teeth or severe tooth decay that cannot be restored through other means, prosthetic solutions such as dentures or bridges can provide an effective solution. However, dental implants have emerged as one of the most advanced options available today. Implants offer a long-term solution by replacing both the root and crown portion of a missing tooth ,resulting in improved stability, functionality, and aesthetics. They are considered an ideal choice for many candidates seeking permanent tooth replacement.

Overall, dental care has come a long way over the past 9,000 years. With innovations in technology, treatments, and patient education, we now have more options than ever before to maintain healthy smiles and address any concerns we may have about our teeth. So whether you’re looking for routine preventive care, restorative treatment, cosmetic enhancements, or prosthetic solutions, dentistry has got you covered!

The benefits of dental care

The benefits of dental care extend far beyond just having a bright and healthy smile. Taking care of your teeth and gums is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Regular visits to the dentist can not only prevent oral diseases but also detect early signs of other health issues.

Today, we have access to a wide range of dental procedures and treatments that can address various oral health issues. Whether you are dealing with decaying teeth or looking for a candidate for dental implants, there are solutions available to help restore your smile and improve your overall well-being.

One major benefit of dental care is the prevention of decaying teeth. Routine check-ups allow dentists to identify any cavities or tooth decay before they become more serious problems. By addressing these issues early on, you can avoid more extensive treatments such as root canals or extractions.

Another advantage of dental care is the improvement in oral hygiene habits. Dentists provide valuable guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques, which are crucial for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. They may also recommend specific products tailored to your needs, such as fluoride toothpaste or mouthwash.

Maintaining good oral health can also have a positive impact on your overall systemic health. Research has shown that poor oral hygiene is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even pregnancy complications. By prioritizing regular dental visits, you are taking proactive steps towards reducing these risks.

Additionally, dental care plays a significant role in boosting self-confidence and mental well-being. A healthy smile contributes to a positive self-image and allows individuals to feel more comfortable in social situations. It can improve communication skills by enhancing speech clarity without concerns about missing or damaged teeth.

In conclusion (not concluded), investing in dental care offers numerous benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics – it promotes better overall health, helps prevent serious oral conditions like decaying teeth (avoid repetitive phrases), enhances oral hygiene habits (do not summarize) , reduces the risk of systemic diseases (!!!), improves confidence levels (!!!) . So why wait? Make sure you prioritize regular dental check-ups for yourself(!). You’ll be smiling brighter inside out!

Conclusion

The history of dentistry is a testament to humanity’s ongoing quest for better oral health. From ancient civilizations using primitive tools to modern-day advancements in technology and treatment options, dental care has come a long way.

Regular visits to the dentist should be an essential part of everyone’s healthcare routine. By maintaining good oral hygiene practices and seeking professional dental care when needed, you can prevent many common dental problems and enjoy the benefits of optimal oral health.

Remember, dentistry is not just about treating existing issues but also about preventive measures. By taking proactive steps such as brushing twice daily, flossing regularly, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco products, and scheduling regular check-ups with your dentist, you can keep your teeth healthy for years to come.

So don’t wait until tooth pain strikes or neglect your oral health needs – take charge today! Visit your dentist regularly and explore the various options available in modern dentistry. Your smile deserves it!

With over 9,000 years of history behind it, dentistry continues to evolve and adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of patients worldwide. Embrace this rich heritage by prioritizing your oral health because a healthy mouth leads to a healthier life overall!

TMJ Disorders: Home Remedies, Medications, and Surgery

TMJ Disorders: Home Remedies, Medications, and Surgery

Are you experiencing pain or discomfort in your jaw? It could be a sign of TMJ disorders. TMJ, or temporomandibular joint, is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. When this joint becomes inflamed or damaged, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms. But fear not! In this blog post, we will explore the various home remedies, medical treatments, and even surgery options available to help alleviate TMJ disorders. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of TMJ solutions together!

What is TMJ?

The temporomandibular joint, or TMJ for short, is a hinge-like joint that connects your jawbone to the skull. It allows you to move your jaw up and down, side-to-side, and enables you to chew, speak, and yawn. This complex joint is made up of muscles, ligaments, bones, and cartilage.

When something goes awry with the TMJ, it can lead to a range of issues known as TMJ disorders. These disorders can cause pain and discomfort in the jaw area as well as other related symptoms such as headaches, earaches, difficulty chewing or opening your mouth fully.

TMJ disorders can be caused by various factors including trauma to the jaw joint or surrounding structures. Arthritis in the joint or misalignment of the teeth can also contribute to these conditions. Stress-induced teeth grinding (bruxism) has been linked to TMJ disorders too.

It’s essential to recognize the signs and symptoms of TMJ early on so that prompt treatment can be sought. If you suspect you may have a TMJ disorder, it’s recommended that you consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in treating these conditions. They will evaluate your symptoms thoroughly before recommending appropriate treatment options tailored specifically for you.

Symptoms of TMJ

When it comes to TMJ disorders, understanding the symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment. While the signs can vary from person to person, there are some common symptoms that may indicate a problem with your temporomandibular joint.

One of the most prevalent symptoms is facial pain or tenderness, particularly in the jaw area also TMJ disorders can affect your neck. This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that hinders everyday activities like eating and speaking. Another symptom is difficulty opening or closing your mouth fully, often accompanied by a clicking or popping sound when you move your jaw.

Headaches are another common complaint among individuals with TMJ disorders. These headaches can be dull and persistent or sharp and sudden in nature. Additionally, earaches and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) may occur due to the close proximity of the temporomandibular joint to these areas.

Some people experience muscle stiffness around their jaw joints, making it challenging to chew food properly or even speak without discomfort. Others may notice their teeth not fitting together correctly or suddenly feeling misaligned.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms on a regular basis, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored specifically for you.

Home Remedies for TMJ

Dealing with the discomfort and pain of TMJ disorders can be challenging, but there are several home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms. While these remedies may not cure the underlying condition, they can provide some relief and improve your overall well-being.

One simple yet effective home remedy is practicing relaxation techniques. Stress has been known to exacerbate TMJ symptoms, so finding ways to relax and reduce stress levels can be beneficial. Try activities like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or yoga to promote relaxation and ease tension in your jaw muscles.

Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area is another common home remedy for TMJ pain. Cold packs can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, while heat packs can soothe sore muscles and increase blood flow. Experiment with both methods to see which provides you with more relief.

Dietary changes may also play a role in managing TMJ symptoms. Avoiding hard or chewy foods that put excessive strain on your jaw joint can help prevent further irritation. Opt for softer options like soups, smoothies, or mashed vegetables instead.

Additionally, incorporating gentle jaw exercises into your daily routine might help relieve stiffness and improve mobility in the joint. Simple movements such as opening and closing your mouth slowly or gently massaging the jaw muscles with your fingers can offer some respite from discomfort.

It’s important to note that these home remedies should supplement professional treatment rather than replace it entirely. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe symptoms of TMJ disorder, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and guidance tailored specifically to your needs.

Remember that every individual is unique; what works for one person might not work for another when it comes to managing TMJ disorders at home. It may require some trial-and-error until you find what brings you relief.

Medical Treatments for TMJ

Medical treatments for TMJ disorders can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual’s specific symptoms. In some cases, self-care measures and home remedies may be enough to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with TMJ. However, if these conservative methods do not provide relief or if the condition worsens, medical intervention may be necessary.

One common medical treatment for TMJ is medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the jaw joint. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to help relax tense muscles in the jaw.

Physical therapy is another option for managing TMJ disorders. This can involve exercises to strengthen and stretch the jaw muscles, as well as techniques to improve posture and reduce stress on the joint.

In more severe cases of TMJ, injections of corticosteroids into the affected joint may be recommended to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These injections are typically performed by a healthcare professional experienced in treating temporomandibular joint disorders.

If conservative measures fail to provide relief or if there are structural issues causing TMJ symptoms, surgery may be considered as a last resort. Surgical options range from minimally invasive procedures such as arthrocentesis or arthroscopy to more extensive surgeries like open-joint surgery or total joint replacement.

It is important to note that each case of TMJ disorder is unique, so it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in temporomandibular joint disorders to determine which treatment approach would be most appropriate for your specific situation.

Surgery for TMJ

Surgery for TMJ disorders is typically considered a last resort when other treatment options have been exhausted. It is important to note that not all cases of TMJ require surgery, and it should only be pursued if conservative treatments have failed to provide relief.

One surgical option for TMJ disorders is arthroscopy, which involves inserting a small camera into the joint to assess and treat any damage. This minimally invasive procedure allows the surgeon to clean out debris, repair or remove damaged tissue, and improve joint function.

In more severe cases or when structural issues are present, open-joint surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves making an incision near the jaw joint to access and repair any abnormalities or damage directly.

While surgery can offer significant relief for some individuals with TMJ disorders, it does come with risks and potential complications. Therefore, it is essential to thoroughly discuss the benefits and drawbacks of surgery with your healthcare provider before making a decision.

Remember that each case of TMJ disorder is unique, so what works for one person may not work for another. It’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in treating TMJ disorders to determine the most appropriate course of action.

How to Prevent TMJ

TMJ disorders can be painful and disruptive, but the good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent or minimize their occurrence. Here are some tips on how to prevent TMJ:

1. Practice good posture: Maintaining proper posture can help alleviate strain on your jaw muscles and joints. Be mindful of your head, neck, and shoulder alignment throughout the day.

2. Avoid excessive chewing: Chewing gum or biting down on hard foods like ice or tough meats can put stress on your jaw joints. Opt for softer foods and cut them into smaller pieces if needed.

3. Manage stress: Stress has been linked to increased muscle tension in the face and jaw area, which can contribute to TMJ problems. Find healthy ways to manage stress such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or talking with a therapist.

4. Use caution when yawning or laughing: Yawning widely or laughing excessively can cause your jaw joints to move out of alignment temporarily. Try supporting your jaw with your hand when yawning or laugh softly instead of loudly.

5. Avoid clenching and grinding teeth: If you have a habit of clenching or grinding your teeth (bruxism), talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard to wear at night.

Get regular dental check-ups : Regular visits to the dentist not only ensure optimal oral health but also allow for early detection and treatment of any potential issues relatedto TMJ disorders .

By following these preventive measures, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of TMJ symptoms.

Conclusion

TMJ disorders can cause significant discomfort and affect various aspects of your life, from eating to speaking. However, with the right approach, you can manage and alleviate the symptoms associated with TMJ.

Home remedies such as applying warm compresses or practicing relaxation techniques can provide temporary relief. Additionally, over-the-counter pain medications can help reduce inflammation and pain.

For more severe cases, medical treatments may be necessary. Your healthcare provider may recommend options like physical therapy or the use of oral splints or mouth guards to align your jaw properly.

In some instances where non-surgical methods are not effective, surgery might be considered. Surgical procedures for TMJ disorders include arthroscopy or open-joint surgery to repair damaged joints or reposition discs.

Preventing TMJ is possible by adopting healthy habits such as maintaining good posture, avoiding excessive chewing gum or nail-biting, and managing stress levels through relaxation techniques.

If you have missing teeth that contribute to your TMJ disorder symptoms, it’s important to consider replacing them as there are many benefits of replacing your teeth. Dental implants offer numerous benefits in improving your bite alignment and reducing strain on the temporomandibular joint.

Remember that every case of TMJ disorder is unique, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. By working closely with your doctor and following their recommendations along with these home remedies and preventive measures, you can effectively manage TMJ disorders and improve your quality of life.

Corporate Social Responsibility: Marketing Spin, or Authentic Philanthropy?

Corporate Social Responsibility: Marketing Spin, or Authentic Philanthropy?

When it comes to corporate social responsibility (CSR), opinions are divided. Some see it as a marketing ploy, a way for companies to save face and attract customers. Others view it as authentic philanthropy, where businesses use their resources for the greater good. But amidst this debate, one thing is clear: ethics in business can often be a contradiction, leaving people cynical and mistrustful of corporations. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether CSR is just another form of marketing spin or if there’s hope for authentic philanthropy in the world of ethical business. So sit back, grab your favorite beverage and let’s dive into the world of CSR!

Business Ethics Are Often a Contradiction

In theory, businesses should operate with integrity and ethics. After all, they have a responsibility to their customers and the wider community. However, in practice, it’s often a different story.

Businesses are under constant pressure from shareholders and investors to make profits. This can lead them to cut corners or engage in unethical practices to boost their bottom line. If your boss is a corporate psychopath chances are your company does not have a social responsibility agenda that is authentic.

Moreover, there’s often a disconnect between what companies say they stand for and what they actually do. They may espouse values like honesty and transparency but then fail to live up to those ideals when faced with difficult decisions.

This contradiction can leave people feeling disillusioned with the business world as a whole. When companies prioritize profit over ethics, it erodes trust in institutions that are meant to serve our needs.

And yet a new direction reveals that team building events are a great way of including corporate social responsibility into your culture due to the positive benefits of activities outside of the workplace.

It’s clear that we need more accountability in business if we want to see real change. Whether through regulation or consumer pressure, something must be done so that ethical behavior becomes the norm rather than the exception.

People Are Often Cynical & Mistrusting of Business

When it comes to business, people often hold a cynical and mistrusting attitude. This is not surprising given the history of unethical practices that have been exposed within corporations over the years. From environmental disasters to labor violations, businesses have not always acted in the best interest of society.

Many consumers are skeptical when they hear about corporate social responsibility initiatives because they believe it is just another marketing ploy. They question whether companies truly care about making a difference or if it’s just a way to improve their public image.

It’s important for businesses to understand this skepticism and work towards building trust with their customers. Authentic philanthropy can be one way to do this, but it needs to be backed up by genuine actions and commitments towards ethical business practices.

Moreover, companies need to realize that being socially responsible should not only be done for reputation management purposes but also as an integral part of their core values. It requires consistent commitment from all levels of the organization and must become ingrained in its culture.

Despite these challenges, there is hope for businesses willing to take on the challenge of corporate social responsibility. By acting ethically and transparently, companies can earn back consumer trust while contributing positively towards society at large.

Corporate Social Responsibility is Often a Joke

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a term widely used by corporations to show their commitment towards society. However, we often come across companies that use CSR as a marketing gimmick without actually making any significant impact on the community.

Many firms tend to spend more money on advertising their philanthropic deeds rather than investing in them. They create an illusion of being socially responsible while doing the bare minimum required to maintain a positive public image.

In some cases, these companies even go as far as exploiting communities and their resources for profit while simultaneously claiming to be engaged in CSR activities. It’s disheartening how easily they get away with it.

Moreover, authentic philanthropy may also sometimes become cheapened by deeds when it is seen solely from a business perspective. Companies need to understand that CSR can’t just be about writing checks or supporting popular causes; it has to be deeply ingrained in the company’s core values and culture.

Corporate social responsibility should not just be considered another tick box exercise for businesses looking to improve their reputation but should instead be taken seriously. Genuine efforts towards promoting ethical business practices are essential if we want corporations’ contributions not only towards shareholders but also towards society at large.

Marketing Departments Are Often Trying To Save The Corporation’s Face

Marketing departments are a crucial part of any corporation, tasked with promoting and enhancing the company’s reputation. However, it is no secret that marketing can often be used to cover up corporate misdeeds. When a business faces negative public opinion due to unethical practices or scandals, the marketing department is called upon to restore the company’s image.

This type of reactive approach to corporate social responsibility (CSR) is known as “saving face.” While CSR initiatives are intended to benefit communities and demonstrate a commitment to ethical business practices, saving face typically lacks authenticity and sincerity.

By focusing solely on restoring the corporation’s image through superficial acts of philanthropy or greenwashing campaigns, companies risk alienating their customers further. It becomes clear that they value profits over people and planet.

Furthermore, consumers have become increasingly skeptical about corporations’ intentions when it comes to CSR. Many view these efforts as mere marketing ploys rather than genuine attempts at doing good for society.

In response, corporations must realize that authentic philanthropy requires a long-term commitment towards sustainable development goals and ethical business practices. A proactive approach towards CSR establishes trust between businesses and consumers while simultaneously creating positive change in societies worldwide.

That’s why growing an authentic reputation for your brand requires a long-term approach which is uncompromising in its integrity.

Authentic Philanthropy Is Often Cheapened By Deeds

It’s not uncommon for companies to engage in philanthropic efforts as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. However, some may argue that these good deeds are often cheapened by the intentions behind them.

Authentic philanthropy is about giving back and making a positive impact on society without expecting anything in return. Unfortunately, some companies use it as a marketing tactic to gain public approval or even worse, tax breaks.

When corporations donate large sums of money to charity, it can give the impression that they are doing something selfless. But what happens when those same corporations commit unethical business practices? The good deeds suddenly become overshadowed by their questionable actions.

Moreover, some companies may only engage in philanthropy if there is an opportunity for brand exposure or media attention. This type of “charitable” behavior is disingenuous and ultimately defeats the purpose of authentic philanthropy.

While corporate philanthropy can undoubtedly make a difference in people’s lives and contribute to societal well-being – it must be done with genuine intent and commitment rather than just for show. Authenticity should always be at the forefront of any CSR campaign if we want true progress towards ethical business practices.

Yet CSR Offers Companies Hope

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is often viewed with a great deal of skepticism by the public. And it’s no wonder why- many companies use CSR as a marketing tool to improve their image, without actually committing to any meaningful change.

But despite this cynicism, I believe that CSR offers hope for companies who are truly committed to ethical business practices. By taking concrete steps towards responsible and sustainable practices, businesses can build trust with consumers and stakeholders alike.

It’s not enough to simply pay lip service to CSR- true commitment requires investment and action. This means taking a hard look at every aspect of your operations and supply chain, from sourcing materials ethically to reducing waste and pollution.

Of course, implementing these changes can be difficult and time-consuming. But in the long run, I believe that they’re worth it both from an ethical standpoint and from a business perspective. Consumers are increasingly demanding transparency and responsibility from the brands they support- those who fail to deliver risk being left behind.

So while there may be some truth behind accusations of “marketing spin” when it comes to CSR initiatives, I still see reason for hope. Companies who take their social responsibilities seriously have the opportunity not only improve their own image but also make real positive changes in our world today.

Corporate Social Responsibility Needs Commitment

Corporate Social Responsibility is not just a marketing tool or a way to save face. It requires true commitment from corporations to make a positive impact on society and the environment. Authentic philanthropy goes beyond writing checks and attending charity events; it involves implementing ethical business practices, investing in sustainable initiatives, supporting local communities, and empowering employees.

Although some people may still view CSR with skepticism due to past misuses of the term by businesses, we should encourage companies that are genuinely committed to making a difference. We can also hold them accountable for their actions through transparency and public scrutiny.

In conclusion (oops!), let’s remember that Corporate Social Responsibility has the potential to drive positive change in our world when approached with sincerity and dedication. As consumers, investors, employees or citizens we have the power to demand more than just marketing spin from big corporations – let’s use this power wisely!

Dental Implants: Will They Deteriorate Faster Than Expected?

Dental Implants: Will They Deteriorate Faster Than Expected?

Even though there are numerous improvements in dental care, millions of Americans still suffer tooth loss. The most common causes of tooth loss include injury, periodontal disease, and tooth decay. Previously, the only options that were available for individuals with missing teeth were dentures and bridges. The good news is that today dental implants are available and if you’re rich you can afford replacements. Thanks to technological innovations.

Dental Implants: What are They?

Dental implants involve replacements of tooth roots. They offer a strong foundation for removable or permanent/fixed replacement teeth designed to match your natural teeth perfectly. Besides preserving your natural bone, dental implants can even stimulate bone growth.

Dental implant surgeries offer a great alternative to bridgework or dentures that do not fit well. Usually, the process through which a dental implant surgery will be performed depends on the implant type and your jawbone’s condition. Consequently, the surgery may involve several procedures for the best outcome. The most significant benefit of dental implants is their solid support for your teeth. The process requires the bone to heal properly around the implant and may take months to heal.

Can Dental Implants Deteriorate Faster Than Expected?

Typically, dental implants will last you for an extended period of up to 30 years. However, some factors can lead to deterioration of the dental implants earlier than expected. Such issues could lead to bone abnormalities and make it more challenging for patients to adapt to an implant. According to statistics, about 2 million dental implants having fixed dentures are installed annually worldwide. An implant will provide a safe way to restore a lost or deformed tooth without negatively affecting your quality of life.

According to research conducted by a team of dentists from RUDN University, a change in the dominant chewing side cause early dental implant deterioration. Such changes make it hard for one to adapt to an implant.

Also, modern-day dental implants made of titanium show an early deterioration in about 45% of the patients. Even though they are durable and quick to take in the jaw’s bone tissue, they may experience early deterioration, usually caused by micro damage. The micro-damage usually happens when the implant’s load is miscalculated before surgery.

Excessive loads affect the junction between the bone and metal, thus allowing bacteria in under the implant. The bacteria then cause inflammation of the region affected. According to the RUDN University dentists, additional implant load may happen when you change the dominant chewing side, especially in the first month after surgery.

Usually, most individuals do not chew symmetrically on both sides of the jaw. They will have a dominant side that takes up to 75% of chewing movements. Nevertheless, such a side can be altered, for instance, following a sore tooth.

Since it takes about 3-4 months to get attuned to a dental implant, the load on the teeth and type of chewing can change. Thus, most patients will switch to the opposite side for chewing. Thus, the load calculations taken before the surgery took place can change and become invalid.

Conclusion

A change in the dominant chewing side is crucial to the patient’s adaptation to dental implants. According to the research by RUDN University dentists, it can also be the reason for pathological processes leading to implant loss eventually. Therefore, dentists should be aware of such changes and factor them in when establishing postsurgical rehabilitation plants.

Vacation Care Ideas: Creative Activities For Kids

Vacation Care Ideas: Creative Activities For Kids

Are you looking for ways to keep your kids entertained and engaged during the school holidays? Look no further than vacation care! This program offers a variety of creative activities that will not only entertain your little ones but also encourage them to learn, socialize, and explore. Whether it’s arts and crafts, indoor or outdoor activities, educational programs, or games and sports, there is something for everyone. In this blog post we’ll share some amazing ideas for Vacation Care Programs that are sure to captivate your children’s imagination while keeping them happy and safe all summer long!

What is Vacation Care?

Vacation Care is a program designed to provide parents with a reliable and engaging alternative to traditional child care during school holidays. It’s an excellent way for children to stay entertained, socialize with peers, and learn new skills all while having fun.

These programs offer various activities such as arts and crafts, indoor/outdoor games, educational sessions that enable children to explore their interests while also encouraging them to try new things. Vacation Care allows kids the chance to be more active in learning beyond the classroom setting.

The best part of Vacation Care is its flexibility; parents can choose which days they want their children enrolled in the program based on their schedules. In addition, there are many creative vacation care programs offering unique experiences for kids like cooking classes or nature walks.

Vacation Care is an excellent option for busy families who need childcare services over holiday periods but don’t want their children sitting at home all day watching TV.

Arts and Crafts

Arts and crafts are a great way for kids to unleash their creativity during vacation care. There’s no limit to what they can create, and it’s always exciting to see the end result.

One idea is to have a theme for each day of the week, such as “animal day” or “underwater world day”. This will give kids some inspiration for their projects and keep things interesting.

Another fun activity is making homemade slime or playdough. Kids love getting messy and creating something that they can play with afterwards! Just make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand before starting.

For those who enjoy painting or drawing, set up an easel outside with some canvases or sketch pads. Not only will this allow them to be creative, but it also gives them a chance to enjoy the outdoors.

Don’t forget about seasonal crafts like making snowflakes in winter or decorating pumpkins in fall. These activities allow kids to explore different textures and materials while celebrating holidays throughout the year.

Arts and crafts are an excellent way for kids to stay engaged during vacation care while developing their creativity skills along the way!

Indoor Activities

When the weather outside is too hot or rainy, indoor activities can be a great way to keep kids entertained during vacation care. There are endless possibilities for fun and engaging activities that can be done indoors.

Arts and crafts projects are always a hit with children of all ages. From painting and drawing to making jewelry or building with clay, there is something for everyone. These types of projects not only provide entertainment but also promote creativity and imagination.

For more educational pursuits, consider setting up science experiments or encouraging kids to read books or write their own stories. Cooking classes can also be a fun way to teach new skills while creating tasty treats.

For some physical activity, try setting up an indoor obstacle course using pillows, cushions, and furniture as obstacles. Or put on some music and have a dance party!

Don’t forget about board games! Classic games like Monopoly or Scrabble can provide hours of entertainment while promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

With these ideas in mind, you’ll never run out of ways to keep your little ones busy on those rainy days inside.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities are a great way to keep children active and engaged during the vacation care period. There are plenty of fun-filled outdoor activities that kids can enjoy, such as water play, field games, nature walks, treasure hunts and more.

One exciting activity is water play where kids can have a blast with water guns or simply run through sprinklers. It’s an excellent way to beat the heat while also keeping them physically fit. Another popular option is field games like football, cricket or touch rugby which helps develop their team-building skills.

Kids love exploring nature too! A leisurely hike in the woods or around the park provides an opportunity for them to learn more about plants and animals while getting some exercise at the same time. Treasure hunts are another thrilling activity that encourages cooperation and teamwork amongst kids.

Outdoor activities give children space to move around and channel their energy into something constructive. It’s a refreshing change from spending hours indoors staring at screens all day long!

Educational Activities

When it comes to vacation care programs, educational activities are a great way to keep kids engaged and learning during their time off from school. These types of activities can range from science experiments to language lessons, and everything in between.

One idea for an educational activity is to have kids participate in a book club where they read and discuss different books throughout the summer. This not only helps with reading comprehension skills, but also encourages critical thinking and discussion among peers.

Another option is to incorporate STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) activities into the program. There are many resources available online that provide easy-to-follow instructions for building simple machines or conducting experiments that teach scientific concepts.

For those interested in history or culture, virtual museum tours can be a fun and informative experience. Many museums offer free virtual tours where visitors can explore collections from around the world without leaving their homes.

Including educational activities in your vacation care program not only keeps children entertained but also promotes continued learning outside of the classroom setting.

Games and Sports

Games and sports are a great way to keep kids active and engaged during vacation care programs. From traditional team games like soccer and basketball to unique individual activities like rock climbing or archery, there are plenty of options for kids of all ages.

For younger children, games like tag, hide-and-seek, and hopscotch can be a lot of fun. These types of games not only get kids moving but also help improve their social skills by encouraging teamwork and communication.

For older children, more challenging sports such as tennis or swimming can provide an opportunity to build physical strength and endurance while also promoting healthy competition between peers.

One benefit of incorporating games and sports into vacation care programs is that it encourages children to explore new hobbies outside the classroom setting. It’s an excellent way for them to discover what they enjoy doing in their free time while staying active at the same time.

Including both indoor and outdoor activities in your vacation care program ensures that every child has something exciting to look forward to each day!

Conclusion

Vacation care doesn’t have to be a time of boredom for kids. With these creative ideas, you can keep them entertained and engaged throughout their break from school. From arts and crafts to educational activities, outdoor adventures to games and sports, there’s something for every child to enjoy.

And don’t forget the importance of social media in promoting your vacation care program. You can promote your vacation care business in marketplace through platforms like social media like Facebook and Instagram to showcase your unique offerings and reach a wider audience.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating an unforgettable vacation care experience that parents will rave about year after year. So get started planning today!

NON-MONOGAMY

NON-MONOGAMY

By Danny Redbard

Look, you little idiots.
As your unintended representative of open-relationships & living as a tantric fuck-boi…
I have to have a word with you.
I’m mad at you for being so freaking basic when it comes to the art of intimacy.

Where to begin, Dan…
Monogamy as a standard of purity is bullshit.
Most of your THINK you’re monogamous, but you’re not.
It means “one marriage.”
Which back in the day meant, “1 partner for life.”
Have you had more than 1 partner?
More than 1 marriage?
You’re non-monogamous.
Have you ever cheated on a partner?
You’re non-monogamous.
Have you ever welcomed someone into your bed with you & a partner?
You’re non-monogamous.

If I hear one more person say, “How do you do it? Don’t you get jealous? Oh, I could never let my partner do that with someone else… How do you communicate with all these lovers?”
I do the exact same work as all of you!
I just do it above the board.
You think monogamy means you’re safe, or never going to be triggered, or not going to have to learn to communicate, your partner is never going to feel chemistry with someone else?
You’re kidding yourself.
And how daaaare you think it’s your right to shut down their flirtation for the sake of your fear!

Relationships are the biggest journeys of your life.
It’s not your partners responsibility to keep you fragile.
Gold your partner & yourself to a higher standard of respect.

Stop kidding yourself in thinking that saying you’d never open-relate makes you a more pure, virginal being.
You’re as slutty as the rest of us.
A lot of you just suppress it, shame it, & numb it out with drugs & alcohol. (If you’ve been promiscuous under the influence, I’m talking to you. Your behaviour is evidence of your beliefs that are lies).

You’re telling me there’s NO ONE out there that you’d be slutty for?
You’re lying to yourself.
You simply haven’t put yourself in the right situations.
It’s very easy to be a good little boy/girl when you’re at home reading a book.
Go socialise with friends that touch you all flirty & sensual & tell me that you’re not having sexual thoughts of being with more than 1 partner.

Why is this valuable to acknowledge?
Because… If you’re suppressing shame in this area of your life, it’s showing up in other areas. (Shame runs the belief, “There’s something wrong with me,” unconsciously in your mind & body).

Other areas it’ll show up. Check in:
Where are you keeping yourself small in your business, sales, in your art, in your voice?
If you’re hiding your sexuality, you’re hiding everywhere.
Be real.

Some of you with “business problems,” actually need to go & have a proper orgasm.
Orgasm until you freaking weep with tears.
If you think I’m joking, this might be your 1st time on Earth.
Go & get fucked.

I dare you, you timid, frigid, whining, fearful sook, to go out there & flirt with the world.
I’m done with you all playing small.
I want you all to flirt with abandon; share art like everyone is missing out if you don’t; & offer your business & magic to the world like it’s the most important legacy that you’re leaving on the planet.

Hurry up, frigid fuck.
This is your prime time of life.
The NOW.
There’s no better time to flirt with the world.

❤️🌹

In case you don’t get this joke, here’s the story:

In case you don’t get this joke, here’s the story:

By Adrian Belew

In 1978 I did my first tour of Europe as “stunt” guitarist and singer for Frank Zappa’s band. The night we played in Cologne, Germany unbeknownst to me Brian Eno was in the audience. Brian knew David Bowie was looking for a new guitarist for his upcoming tour. He called David after seeing our show and told David he should come see the guitarist for Frank’s band.

The next night we performed in Berlin. There was a part of the show where Frank took an extended guitar solo and most of the band members, including myself, left the stage for a few minutes. As I walked to the back of the stage I looked over at the monitor mixing board and saw David Bowie and Iggy Pop standing there.
Wow! I couldn’t believe it!

So I walked over to David Bowie, shook his hand and said, “I love what you’ve done, thank you for all the music”. And he said, “Great, how would you like to be in my band?” I motioned back towards Frank and said, “Well, I’m kind of playing with that guy.” David laughed and said, “Yes, I know, but when Frank’s tour ends my tour starts two weeks later. Shall we talk about it over dinner?”

David said he would meet me back at our hotel and sure enough when I arrived back at the hotel David Bowie and his assistant Coco Schwab were sitting on a couch in the lobby. As I walked past them they whispered to me, “Get into the elevator, go up to your room, come back down in a few minutes, and meet us outside. We have a car waiting.”
It was like something out of a spy film.

When I came back down and went outside there was a black limousine waiting. The driver opened the door and I got in the back with David and Coco. David immediately launched into all this plans for his upcoming tour, the songs we would play, the staging, and so on, and how much he loved my guitar playing! It was so exciting! He said they were taking me to one of his favorite restaurants in Berlin.

How many restaurants are there in Berlin? 25,000?

We arrived at the restaurant, went in the front door, and who should be sitting at the very first table but Frank Zappa and the rest of the band! So the three of us sat down with Frank and the band. David, trying to be cordial, motioned to me and said, “Quite a guitar player you have here Frank.”
And Frank said, “F••• you Captain Tom.”
(note: Frank had demoted David from Major Tom to Captain Tom.)
David persisted, “Oh come on now Frank, surely we can be gentleman about this?”
Frank said, “F••• you Captain Tom.”
By this point I was paralyzed. David said, “So you really have nothing to say?” Frank said, “F••• you Captain Tom.”

David and Coco and I got up and went back out the front door. Getting in the limo David said in his wonderfully British way, “I thought that went rather well!”

Gun Violence: Letter from the USA

Gun Violence: Letter from the USA

Bunch of DMs this morning asking if I’m going to say anything about the most recent (is it the most recent? It’s been 24 hours, maybe not) mass shooting.

What do you want me to say?

Seriously, what do you want me to say?

I’ve literally written tens of thousands of words about gun violence. My essays have been read by millions. I don’t know what the hell else I can say.

We wake up to this every day. And for about five minutes the media will be full of ranting and rage and the usual cliched platitudes from pundits, politicians, and holy men (all of whom are getting their bloody palms greased by the NRA), and then we’ll move on and tomorrow it’ll be another orgy of gun violence and we’ll do it again. No one will do anything. No member of government will do anything beyond empty thoughts and prayers. Nothing will change. This is the nation we live in. Hell, *I* will get death threats from gun nuts simply for typing this post, count on it.

Fatalistic?

Cynical?

Yep.

Nevertheless, there it is.

We simply do not have the moral courage to do anything. At all.

We are willing hostages to murderous fanatics and we are completely willing to sacrifice our kids to the gun lobby. I mean, shit, half of American voters don’t even show up, that’s how little most of America cares.

You want me to say something?

I’ve said it. Over and over.

There is nothing left to say.

• Jim Wright

25 years of thoughts and prayers:
Thurston High School
Columbine High School
Heritage High School
Deming Middle School
Fort Gibson Middle School
Buell Elementary School
Lake Worth Middle School
University of Arkansas
Junipero Serra High School
Santana High School
Bishop Neumann High School
Pacific Lutheran University
Granite Hills High School
Lew Wallace High School
Martin Luther King, Jr High School
Appalachian School of Law
Washington High School
Conception Abbey
Benjamin Tasker Middle School
University of Arizona
Lincoln High School
John McDonogh High School
Red Lion Area Junior High School
Case Western Reserve University
Rocori High School
Ballou High School
Randallstown High School
Bowen High School
Red Lake Senior High School
Harlan Community Academy High School
Campbell County High School
Milwee Middle School
Roseburg High School
Pine Middle School
Essex Elementary School
Duquesne University
Platte Canyon High School
Weston High School
West Nickel Mines School
Joplin Memorial Middle School
Henry Foss High School
Compton Centennial High School
Virginia Tech
Success Tech Academy
Miami Carol City Senior High School
Hamilton High School
Louisiana Technical College
Mitchell High School
EO Green Junior High School
Northern Illinois University
Lakota Middle School
Knoxville Central High School
Willoughby South High School
Henry Ford High School
University of Central Arkansas
Dillard High School
Dunbar High School
Hampton University
Harvard College
Larose-Cut Off Middle School
International Studies Academy
Skyline College
Discovery Middle School
University of Alabama
DeKalb School
Deer Creek Middle School
Ohio State University
Mumford High School
University of Texas
Kelly Elementary School
Marinette High School
Aurora Central High School
Millard South High School
Martinsville West Middle School
Worthing High School
Millard South High School
Highlands Intermediate School
Cape Fear High School
Chardon High School
Episcopal School of Jacksonville
Oikos University
Hamilton High School
Perry Hall School
Normal Community High School
University of South Alabama
Banner Academy South
University of Southern California
Sandy Hook Elementary School
Apostolic Revival Center Christian School
Taft Union High School
Osborn High School
Stevens Institute of Business and Arts
Hazard Community and Technical College
Chicago State University
Lone Star College-North
Cesar Chavez High School
Price Middle School
University of Central Florida
New River Community College
Grambling State University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Ossie Ware Mitchell Middle School
Ronald E McNair Discovery Academy
North Panola High School
Carver High School
Agape Christian Academy
Sparks Middle School
North Carolina A&T State University
Stephenson High School
Brashear High School
West Orange High School
Arapahoe High School
Edison High School
Liberty Technology Magnet High School
Hillhouse High School
Berrendo Middle School
Purdue University
South Carolina State University
Los Angeles Valley College
Charles F Brush High School
University of Southern California
Georgia Regents University
Academy of Knowledge Preschool
Benjamin Banneker High School
D H Conley High School
East English Village Preparatory Academy
Paine College
Georgia Gwinnett College
John F Kennedy High School
Seattle Pacific University
Reynolds High School
Indiana State University
Albemarle High School
Fern Creek Traditional High School
Langston Hughes High School
Marysville Pilchuck High School
Florida State University
Miami Carol City High School
Rogers State University
Rosemary Anderson High School
Wisconsin Lutheran High School
Frederick High School
Tenaya Middle School
Bethune-Cookman University
Pershing Elementary School
Wayne Community College
JB Martin Middle School
Southwestern Classical Academy
Savannah State University
Harrisburg High School
Umpqua Community College
Northern Arizona University
Texas Southern University
Tennessee State University
Winston-Salem State University
Mojave High School
Lawrence Central High School
Franklin High School
Muskegon Heights High School
Independence High School
Madison High School
Antigo High School
University of California-Los Angeles
Jeremiah Burke High School
Alpine High School
Townville Elementary School
Vigor High School
Linden McKinley STEM Academy
June Jordan High School for Equity
Union Middle School
Mueller Park Junior High School
West Liberty-Salem High School
University of Washington
King City High School
North Park Elementary School
North Lake College
Freeman High School
Mattoon High School
Rancho Tehama Elementary School
Aztec High School
Wake Forest University
Italy High School
NET Charter High School
Marshall County High School
Sal Castro Middle School
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Great Mills High School
Central Michigan University
Huffman High School
Frederick Douglass High School
Forest High School
Highland High School
Dixon High School
Santa Fe High School
Noblesville West Middle School
University of North Carolina Charlotte
STEM School Highlands Ranch
Edgewood High School
Palm Beach Central High School
Providence Career & Technical Academy
Fairley High School (school bus)
Canyon Springs High School
Dennis Intermediate School
Florida International University
Central Elementary School
Cascade Middle School
Davidson High School
Prairie View A & M University
Altascocita High School
Central Academy of Excellence
Cleveland High School
Robert E Lee High School
Cheyenne South High School
Grambling State University
Blountsville Elementary School
Holmes County, Mississippi (school bus)
Prescott High School
College of the Mainland
Wynbrooke Elementary School
UNC Charlotte
Riverview Florida (school bus)
Second Chance High School
Carman-Ainsworth High School
Williwaw Elementary School
Monroe Clark Middle School
Central Catholic High School
Jeanette High School
Eastern Hills High School
DeAnza High School
Ridgway High School
Reginald F Lewis High School
Saugus High School
Pleasantville High School
Waukesha South High School
Oshkosh High School
Catholic Academy of New Haven
Bellaire High School
North Crowley High School
McAuliffe Elementary School
South Oak Cliff High School
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Sonora High School
Western Illinois University
Oxford High School
Robb Elementary SchoolThurston High School
Columbine High School
Heritage High School
Deming Middle School
Fort Gibson Middle School
Buell Elementary School
Lake Worth Middle School
University of Arkansas
Junipero Serra High School
Santana High School
Bishop Neumann High School
Pacific Lutheran University
Granite Hills High School
Lew Wallace High School
Martin Luther King, Jr High School
Appalachian School of Law
Washington High School
Conception Abbey
Benjamin Tasker Middle School
University of Arizona
Lincoln High School
John McDonogh High School
Red Lion Area Junior High School
Case Western Reserve University
Rocori High School
Ballou High School
Randallstown High School
Bowen High School
Red Lake Senior High School
Harlan Community Academy High School
Campbell County High School
Milwee Middle School
Roseburg High School
Pine Middle School
Essex Elementary School
Duquesne University
Platte Canyon High School
Weston High School
West Nickel Mines School
Joplin Memorial Middle School
Henry Foss High School
Compton Centennial High School
Virginia Tech
Success Tech Academy
Miami Carol City Senior High School
Hamilton High School
Louisiana Technical College
Mitchell High School
EO Green Junior High School
Northern Illinois University
Lakota Middle School
Knoxville Central High School
Willoughby South High School
Henry Ford High School
University of Central Arkansas
Dillard High School
Dunbar High School
Hampton University
Harvard College
Larose-Cut Off Middle School
International Studies Academy
Skyline College
Discovery Middle School
University of Alabama
DeKalb School
Deer Creek Middle School
Ohio State University
Mumford High School
University of Texas
Kelly Elementary School
Marinette High School
Aurora Central High School
Millard South High School
Martinsville West Middle School
Worthing High School
Millard South High School
Highlands Intermediate School
Cape Fear High School
Chardon High School
Episcopal School of Jacksonville
Oikos University
Hamilton High School
Perry Hall School
Normal Community High School
University of South Alabama
Banner Academy South
University of Southern California
Sandy Hook Elementary School
Apostolic Revival Center Christian School
Taft Union High School
Osborn High School
Stevens Institute of Business and Arts
Hazard Community and Technical College
Chicago State University
Lone Star College-North
Cesar Chavez High School
Price Middle School
University of Central Florida
New River Community College
Grambling State University
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Ossie Ware Mitchell Middle School
Ronald E McNair Discovery Academy
North Panola High School
Carver High School
Agape Christian Academy
Sparks Middle School
North Carolina A&T State University
Stephenson High School
Brashear High School
West Orange High School
Arapahoe High School
Edison High School
Liberty Technology Magnet High School
Hillhouse High School
Berrendo Middle School
Purdue University
South Carolina State University
Los Angeles Valley College
Charles F Brush High School
University of Southern California
Georgia Regents University
Academy of Knowledge Preschool
Benjamin Banneker High School
D H Conley High School
East English Village Preparatory Academy
Paine College
Georgia Gwinnett College
John F Kennedy High School
Seattle Pacific University
Reynolds High School
Indiana State University
Albemarle High School
Fern Creek Traditional High School
Langston Hughes High School
Marysville Pilchuck High School
Florida State University
Miami Carol City High School
Rogers State University
Rosemary Anderson High School
Wisconsin Lutheran High School
Frederick High School
Tenaya Middle School
Bethune-Cookman University
Pershing Elementary School
Wayne Community College
JB Martin Middle School
Southwestern Classical Academy
Savannah State University
Harrisburg High School
Umpqua Community College
Northern Arizona University
Texas Southern University
Tennessee State University
Winston-Salem State University
Mojave High School
Lawrence Central High School
Franklin High School
Muskegon Heights High School
Independence High School
Madison High School
Antigo High School
University of California-Los Angeles
Jeremiah Burke High School
Alpine High School
Townville Elementary School
Vigor High School
Linden McKinley STEM Academy
June Jordan High School for Equity
Union Middle School
Mueller Park Junior High School
West Liberty-Salem High School
University of Washington
King City High School
North Park Elementary School
North Lake College
Freeman High School
Mattoon High School
Rancho Tehama Elementary School
Aztec High School
Wake Forest University
Italy High School
NET Charter High School
Marshall County High School
Sal Castro Middle School
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School
Great Mills High School
Central Michigan University
Huffman High School
Frederick Douglass High School
Forest High School
Highland High School
Dixon High School
Santa Fe High School
Noblesville West Middle School
University of North Carolina Charlotte
STEM School Highlands Ranch
Edgewood High School
Palm Beach Central High School
Providence Career & Technical Academy
Fairley High School (school bus)
Canyon Springs High School
Dennis Intermediate School
Florida International University
Central Elementary School
Cascade Middle School
Davidson High School
Prairie View A & M University
Altascocita High School
Central Academy of Excellence
Cleveland High School
Robert E Lee High School
Cheyenne South High School
Grambling State University
Blountsville Elementary School
Holmes County, Mississippi (school bus)
Prescott High School
College of the Mainland
Wynbrooke Elementary School
UNC Charlotte
Riverview Florida (school bus)
Second Chance High School
Carman-Ainsworth High School
Williwaw Elementary School
Monroe Clark Middle School
Central Catholic High School
Jeanette High School
Eastern Hills High School
DeAnza High School
Ridgway High School
Reginald F Lewis High School
Saugus High School
Pleasantville High School
Waukesha South High School
Oshkosh High School
Catholic Academy of New Haven
Bellaire High School
North Crowley High School
McAuliffe Elementary School
South Oak Cliff High School
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Sonora High School
Western Illinois University
Oxford High School
Bridgewater University
Robb Elementary School
Michigan State University
Covenant Christian School
Next TBA…
**feel free to copy and paste, then share**

Sydney Cosmetic Dentist Attacked: Dr William Zafiropoulos Hospitalised

Sydney Cosmetic Dentist Attacked: Dr William Zafiropoulos Hospitalised

Dr William Zafiropoulos, a prominent cosmetic dentist in Sydney, was brutally attacked in his clinic on Monday, March 6th. According to reports from the Sydney Morning Herald, the attack was carried out by two well-dressed individuals who used a hammer to inflict serious injuries on Dr Zafiropoulos, leaving him hospitalized and in critical condition.

This incident has sent shockwaves through the dental community, highlighting the risks that cosmetic dentists face in their line of work. As cosmetic dentistry continues to gain popularity, dentists in Sydney are calling for better safety measures to protect them from such attacks. In this article, we will explore the implications of this attack and its impact on the dental industry in Sydney.

The Attack

Dr Zafiropoulos, who owns the Classic Smiles dental clinic in Sydney’s suburb of Miranda, was reportedly attacked by a man and a woman who posed as patients. The attackers had booked an appointment under false names and arrived at the clinic dressed in business attire. As soon as they entered the treatment room, they attacked Dr Zafiropoulos with a hammer, causing severe injuries to his head and face.

According to witnesses, the attackers appeared calm and collected throughout the attack, showing no signs of remorse or fear of being caught. They fled the scene immediately after the attack, leaving Dr Zafiropoulos bleeding on the floor.

The Aftermath

Dr Zafiropoulos was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery for his injuries. He is currently in critical but stable condition, and the police are actively investigating the case to identify and apprehend the attackers.

The attack on Dr Zafiropoulos has sent shockwaves through the dental community, with many dentists expressing their concerns about the safety of their profession. Cosmetic dentistry, in particular, has become increasingly popular in recent years, with more people seeking treatments to improve their appearance. However, this trend has also made cosmetic dentists more vulnerable to attacks from disgruntled patients or criminals.

Safety Measures for Cosmetic Dentists

Cosmetic dentists in Sydney expect to work in safety, but the reality is that their profession can be risky. While there is no foolproof way to prevent attacks, there are several measures that dentists can take to minimize the risk.

Some of these measures include:

  • Installing security cameras in the clinic to deter criminals
  • Conducting thorough background checks on all patients before treatment
  • Having a panic button installed in the treatment room for emergencies
  • Employing security personnel to monitor the clinic and surrounding areas

Cosmetic dentists should also stay informed about any potential threats or risks in their area and take steps to protect themselves accordingly.

Impact on the Dental Industry

The attack on Dr Zafiropoulos has also highlighted the need for greater awareness and support for dentists who specialise in treating marginalised communities. Cosmetic dentists who work with transgender patients, for example, have reported an increase in social media attacks and harassment.

According to a report by Scigentasy, a publication dedicated to advancing diversity in healthcare, social media attacks on trans-friendly dentists are increasing, with many dentists receiving threatening messages or negative reviews for providing services to transgender patients.

Social media attacks can have a devastating impact on the reputation and livelihood of dentists, and there is a need for greater support and protection for those who are targeted. As a society, we must stand up against all forms of discrimination and harassment, including those aimed at healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

The attack on Dr Zafiropoulos is a stark reminder of the risks that cosmetic dentists face in their line of work. While the police investigation is ongoing, the dental community in Sydney is calling for greater safety measures and support for dentists who are targeted by criminals or harassed on social media.

As consumers, we should also be aware of the risks involved in cosmetic dentistry and choose reputable dentists who have taken steps to ensure their safety and that of their patients.

In conclusion, the attack on Dr Zafiropoulos has highlighted the need for greater safety measures and support for cosmetic dentists in Sydney. The dental industry must work together to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all dentists, and we as a society must stand up against all forms of discrimination and violence. By doing so, we can create a safer and more inclusive environment for all.

Educating Kids in Financial Matters: Where Should a Parent Start?

Educating Kids in Financial Matters: Where Should a Parent Start?

How did you get educated about money when you were a kid? Maybe your parents handed you a few shekels to swing by the grocery store for milk. After getting through the checkout and counting out the change, maybe you stuffed the rest back into your pocket and headed home with a small profit.

Today, educating kids on how to manage money is changing fast. As technology around payments and money management has evolved, transactions are often no longer tangible. Cash is becoming less common and learning to become financially savvy is beginning to take a much different shape than in the past. Starting a conversation to educate your kids early, and building growth can help them navigate the world and their finances successfully.

As post-millennial parents, your kids always come first. This also means prioritising your finances to accommodate your child, and educating them as they grow up to be financially savvy. By age 7, kids will already have habits that will translate into their adulthood and finances. Make sure you prepare yourself to educate your kids regarding proper money matter management in all relevant aspects.

Explore resources when raising your child to ensure your finances and your kid’s finances are always in the best shape.

Educate Kids About Money in Elementary School and Earlier

These strategies are appropriate for very young children. You can do some, like talking openly about money around your kids, at a very early age. Others need to wait until kids are old enough to manage small sums of money on their own to mimic the experience of both spending and saving money.

Educate Openly About Money With Your Kids

Time and again, you hear the same refrain. It’s never too early to start discussing money with your kids. Take this logic one step further and resolve to speak openly about money with and around your kids from a young age. Feel free to discuss sensitive financial matters, such as salary negotiations and the status of your retirement accounts in the presence of your kids.

Talking about money around young children might feel awkward at first, but there’s no good reason to shoo them out of the room so the grown-ups can have a frank discussion. And if you’re worried about them sharing the details of these conversations far and wide, emphasise that financial specifics are fine to discuss in the home but aren’t appropriate to divulge to friends, teachers, or random people at the supermarket.

Young kids might not understand everything you discuss, but that’s okay. They don’t understand all the words in the stories you read with them either. That doesn’t stop you because you trust they’ll pick more up with repetition and age.

Lead Kids by Example

You’re your kids’ most visible and vital role model. That may change during their rebellious adolescent years, but they’re all yours during elementary school.

By visibly following through on the fiscal wisdom you dole out to your kids, you show them it’s possible to live within your means. Kids are perceptive, and they often pick up on cues even when you don’t explicitly call them out. But your message will ring clearer and stick longer with good-natured repetition.

So when you want to convey a money management concept to your child, explain why and how you’re doing it. And look for teachable moments wherever you go. Mundane activities like shopping outings are ripe for reinforcement. It takes just a few seconds to explain to your kid why you chose the cheaper generic option over the functionally equivalent name-brand option.

Give Them Fake Money

It’s not as cruel as it sounds. Fake money teaches young kids about the value of money without entrusting them with any hard-earned cash. Think of it as training wheels for budding consumers, with you (the parent) playing the dual role of banker and merchant. Toy guns may now be politically incorrect, but board games that feature money exchanges inevitably excite children of all ages and are trainer wheels for capitalistic impulses.

Set reasonable values for various chores, cleaning up after a meal, privileges stretching bedtime, and things they want snacks.

Avoid an Open-Wallet Policy

Don’t give your kids an open line of credit. Instead, set constraints on spending money, even if you can’t help spoiling them occasionally.

You’ve gotten used to telling your kids no on other matters. Putting your foot down on requests for cash or parent-aided purchases like video games and candy at the grocery store is no different. It’s essential to lay out this marker early in your kids’ financial education. The longer you wait, the harder old habits will die.

How hands-on you’d like to be is up to you. You can go so far as to set up a household bank – not a real bank account, but a pile of money you and your kids know the balance of. This way, your kids know exactly how much they can spend each week or month, and they won’t be surprised when they hear no. Over time, they’ll realise they have to save up for bigger purchases.

Be Equitable and Pay Kids Fairly for Age-Appropriate Chores

If you dole out an allowance to young children without requiring work, ensure it’s equitable on an age-weighted basis – you can give raises every year or quarter. If you pay wages for chores, assign equal amounts of work and an equal pay rate.

Sadly, the gender wage gap has come for kids too. According to data from BusyKid, a personal finance app for kids, girls receive less than half the weekly allowance given to boys, a starker divide than the gender pay gap for adults. That’s unfair and inconsistent with the principle that every kid deserves the same chance to succeed.

Eventually, extenuating circumstances might render equitable financial treatment impractical. For instance, you probably need to provide more support to a kid who gets into an ivy league university than one who enrols in a technical certificate program at the local community college. But that’s likely years off. We’re talking about kids in elementary school here. There’s no reason not to start your little ones on a level playing field.

Don’t Compensate for Tasks Kids Have to Do Anyway

A well-designed household chore schedule is a win-win. For parents, it’s a dumping ground for mundane, low-value tasks for which they lack the time or patience. For kids, it’s a buffet of practical earning opportunities and a long, low-stakes introduction to the sorts of rote tasks they’ll soon enough need to complete on their own.

Just resist the temptation to unduly relax your definition of a chore to draw in tasks your kids have to do anyway, like cleaning their room or keeping play spaces clean. Even in elementary school, your kids’ chores should be at minimum jobs that benefit everyone in the household, such as washing all the dishes after a family meal, dusting the entire house rather than just the kids’ rooms, or cleaning and vacuuming floors throughout the home.

The goal is to only compensate kids for jobs you’d otherwise have to do yourself or pay someone from outside the household to do. In effect, you’re hiring your kids to do these tasks and teaching them the value of a dollar in the process. Just be sure to pay them enough to encourage them to look forward to or at least not actively avoid these assignments.

Use Praise and Tough Love

Use a combination of praise and tough love to instill financial discipline in your brood. When your kid makes a deposit into your household bank or tucks a dollar bill away for a future purchase, tell them they’re doing the right thing. If you’re feeling exceptionally generous, throw in a low-cost treat, like an extra half-hour of screen time that evening.

You can also encourage your kids to make sound financial decisions by reminding them that by spending today, they’re deferring or forgoing future purchases they may value more. Don’t punish them for overspending. Just make it crystal-clear what they’re missing and remind them of that when they run out of money for something they want.

Educate Kids About Money in Middle School

These strategies are best for kids old enough to understand more complex financial concepts that are fundamental to financial literacy, like balancing a checkbook and managing debt.

Open a Custodial Bank Account for Them Early

Once you trust your kids enough to make their own spending and saving decisions without the aid of a piggy bank or closely supervised app like Greenlight, open a custodial bank account in their name.

There’s no real downside to setting up a bank account early, given that your joint account opens a whole new world of teachable concepts. But younger kids won’t participate as actively in account management and may not take any interest at all.

Cross this item off your list by the time your kids hit tweendom, say, 10 or 11 years old, to give them plenty of time before high school and hopefully their first job outside the home to get up to speed on banking.

Get Them Excited About Money Management

Now’s the time to get your kids jazzed about something — anything — that involves sound financial decision-making.

For example, though chequebooks are obsolete , some personal finance experts recommend ordering cheques on joint accounts anyway. Balancing a chequebook helps demonstrate basic money management concepts.

If your family regularly donates to non-profit organisations, get your kids involved in the process of selecting recipients and setting aside funds for quarterly or year-end giving. More likely than not, they’ll embrace the purpose-driven nature of the exercise. Nothing conveys the power of a dollar like seeing firsthand its potential to do good in the world.

Educate Kids About Money in High School and Beyond

Roll out these strategies as your money management cadets approach adulthood. Before they get their first job or head off to college or both, they need to understand the basics of budgeting, taxes, borrowing, and investing.

Educate Them About Taxes and Accounting

Millions of kids work part-time in high school. Before they take their first tentative steps into the labor market, they need to understand the difference between gross pay and net pay. So it’s time they learn that earning money means paying taxes.

If you use a human accountant to prepare your household’s taxes, take your child to this year’s appointment. That way, kids learn that even parents must make financial tradeoffs and that not all the money you earn is yours.

If you prepare your taxes online, show your kid how the process works. If you or your kid don’t have time to complete the process in one sitting, just show them the ropes as you can. If your family uses a certified financial adviser or financial planner, loop your kids in on your financial planning meetings too.

Educate Children About the Importance of Avoiding High-Interest Debt

Many parents discourage kids from using credit cards altogether. That’s a perfectly valid approach to financial education and one that keeps them away from one of the most common drivers of consumer debt altogether.

Even if you’re fine with your kids using credit cards when they’re old enough, have the debt talk with them before co-signing a credit card application or student loan, particularly warning them about the risks of carrying high-interest balances from month to month.

The debt talk isn’t just appropriate for budding credit card users. You can also use it to warn kids off uglier forms of debt too, such as predatory payday loans. It shouldn’t be a difficult sell, given the litany of consequences of bad credit: higher interest rates, higher car insurance rates, trouble renting an apartment or securing a cellphone contract, difficulty securing a job, or obtaining a security clearance.

Anyway, sound credit management practices are sound money management practices. Every dollar your kids don’t have to pay toward a carried credit balance is a dollar they can sock away so it can earn interest in a savings account or grow in an investment account.

Help Them Budget and Apply for Student Loans

Applying for student loans and budgeting for post-graduation repayments are likely to be among your kids’ least favorite financial exercises, but they’re a piece of the financial education puzzle. Kids who aren’t prepared to set aside significant chunks of their take-home pay for student debt simply aren’t set up for frugal-living success.

Help Them Build Credit and Introduce the Importance of a Good Credit Score

It’s never too early to begin building credit for your kids. One easy way to help your teen build credit is to add them as an authorised user on your credit card. If and when they apply for private student loans, add yourself to the loans as a co-signer. The lender might require applicants with limited credit histories to have a co-signer anyway. For many young people, a student credit card is the first credit card they open. That’s because most student cards give college students enrolled in a two- or four-year college the chance to build credit. Some even let them earn rewards and receive student-centric benefits.

As you set them off on their credit-building journey, ensure your teenagers understand why it’s crucial to build and maintain good credit in the first place. Help them understand the real-world consequences of bad credit, like higher insurance premiums and problems finding quality rental housing, surely a top-of-mind concern for kids looking ahead to independent living.

Show them how to check their credit score with consumer credit-reporting bureaus or consumer finance platforms like Credit Karma. Make sure they know they’re entitled to one free credit report per year from each bureau. And give them tips to improve their scores over time, like maintaining low credit balances and using free score boosters like Experian Boost.

And while encouraging them to maintain a good credit score at all costs, let them know that if they do stumble, then they can get help from a reputable credit repair company.

Is Crypto a Safe Activity For Teenagers?

Recently some teenagers have been asking their parents if they can have a cryptocurrency account.

For some parents it’s too confronting, but if a teenager is given strict guidelines about limits to amounts they can invest, and they’re prepared to be closely supervised, even with casual questions two or three times a week asking them what their balance is, then this can be a positive and enjoyable experience for both the teenager and parent.

While not every teenager will be as successful as teen crypto millionaire Erik Finman, even small gains can create excitement, and in a world where teenagers so often communicate with their parents in grunts and monosyllables, it’s one avenue which can open a teen up to much more enthusiastic and regular conversation.

Educate Them the Three Types of Personal Savings

Before they leave the nest, ensure your kids understand the three primary types of savings:

  • Personal savings
  • Emergency funds
  • Retirement savings

Give them an overview of each type what it’s for when to contribute, why it matters to their savings goals, and when to draw upon it.

Help Them Set and Achieve Goals

As kids get older, parents can help them set goals but another factor that can be beneficial in helping them achieve those goals. Gives the example of a kid saving up for a winter ski trip: the parents can match their savings by the dollar to help them make it happen.

By helping them, kids understand to pay close attention to opportunities. And number two, it also helps them have some skin in the game and understand how much time goes into saving all that money.

Final Word

Kids are like snowflakes. They’re all different. So are parents.

As a parent, you have wide latitude to educate your kids on the value of money and instill sensible money habits.

However you choose to provide your kid’s financial lessons, never forget it’s also in your interest to ensure that they know how to manage and grow their own money in the real world for years to come. After all, you might rely on your kids’ thrifty habits to support you long after you hang up your working hat for good.

Italy’s Best Places To Live Permanently, Not Just Visit

Italy’s Best Places To Live Permanently, Not Just Visit

Where would I live in Italy, other than where I currently live, in a small village near Udine?

I like edges. So coastal, or close to other borders. Liguria seems pretty convenient. But then again, people say Verona is nice. It’s a goodish size, but on the downside it’s pretty central (so neither border nor coastal). But my interests may be different from yours. I would want good cycling possibilities, and access to lots of wilder areas. At this stage of my life I don’t want to be near big urban areas, which you on the other hand may do. You couldn’t pay me to live in Milan for example. If you love Milan or Rome as a permanent base, I don’t think my top 5 would be any good for you.

So I’ve been thinking about places that I wouldn’t mind living in. A bit difficult because honestly I love where I am, and wouldn’t want to move. But for the sake of a hypothetical …

1. Trentino Alto Adige. Mostly for the lifestyle, as it has a great sporting culture, lots of mountain trails, bike paths, etc. The problem for foreign parents is that schools there would be in German, not English (it’s South Tyrol).

2. Liguria, somewhere on the coast far from any big touristic centre. Mostly for its nearness to France, Monaco, Spain etc.

3. Asti/Monferrato/Langhe in Piemonte. Gorgeous hills, fantastic wine and food, fairly convenient location for France also.

4. Maybe nearish Siena, or one of the minor towns in Toscana. Not the Gallo Nero region because that’s overrun with tourists, but somewhere away from that section, but still close-ish to Siena. Just because Toscana is so gorgeous. Can’t really blame the tourists for wanting to go there.

5. If I have to make it five, then possibly Verona, or Treviso, or some smaller place in Veneto. Somewhere hilly.

6. Sometimes overlooked by tourists who are understandably caught up in the museums and other attractions of Florence, the ancient city of Lucca is well worth a visit in its own right. It is perfect for a day trip, or if you have more time, it is also a great base from which to explore Pisa and Siena to the south, Versilia and the coast to the west, or the Apuan Alps of northern Tuscany.

This convenient central location in Tuscany has caused Lucca some grief in its over 2,000 years of history, but being the centre of much conflict from Roman times all the way to the 16th century and beyond gave rise to Lucca’s most distinctive architectural feature: the impressive stone walls that surround and enclose the historic district of this fascinating Italian town.
https://internationalliving.com/countries/italy/lucca-italy/

7. While sharing links, here’s “50 dreamy villages you should visit in Italy” https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=167743219377287 truth is most of us won’t get to see half in our lifetimes, but we could die trying.

8. Another great region is Abruzzo, east of Rome, with an Adriatic coastline and the Apennine Mountains. National parks and nature reserves cover much of its rugged interior. It also encompasses hilltop towns, dating to the medieval and Renaissance periods. Regional capital L’Aquila is a walled city, damaged in a 2009 earthquake. The Trabocchi Coast, with sandy coves, is named after its traditional wooden fishing piers. https://internationalliving.com/countries/italy/abruzzo-italy

So there you have it. Penny’s top alternatives to Udine. But honestly, if I had to move I’d probably move further away, somewhere in Portugal (again, coastal), or maybe Barcelona. And if I were buying a house I’d do it in Croatia, in Istria. You might still be able to get a beach house for less than an arm and a leg.

Major Gingivitis Research in Europe Reveals Grim Fact

Major Gingivitis Research in Europe Reveals Grim Fact

 

Brushing your teeth is not enough.

Finland’s Metropolia University of Applied Sciences is currently conducting the largest periodontitis study in Europe. The three-year study’s preliminary findings show that brushing and flossing isn’t enough. Utilising other antibacterial methods that eliminates disease-causing bacteria from dental plaque considerably lowers gingivitis and enhances dental hygiene. An inner-city hub for gum disease treatment in Brisbane is proud to offer patients gum and periodontal treatment to help heal the mouth.

We brush them, we floss them, we whiten them – and for some people, that’s just the beginning. For some people, their obsession with their teeth goes far beyond the basic maintenance, which, this study, has actually found to be a good practice. “You can only remove half of the plaque by brushing your teeth – it’s no wonder cavities and gingivitis are among the most common diseases in the world. If we want to improve the results of dental care treatments, we need to focus on removing the plaque that is left on the teeth after brushing them,” says Professor Timo Sorsa from the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases at the University of Helsinki.

Advanced gingivitis, also known as periodontitis, harms the collagen fibres that surround the teeth. Gum pockets may become deeper as a result of this. As the illness worsens, the infection results in tissue loss, which could ultimately result in the loss of one or more teeth. Up to 50% of people over the age of 50 have periodontitis, making it a very widespread condition. While maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, in cases of advanced infection, gum pockets require routine expert cleaning. However, it can be challenging to remove germs from gum pockets using conventional procedures. As a result, diseases spread as additional bacteria fill the pockets.

Up to 70% of people in Western countries suffer from periodontitis, a bacterial illness that is chronic in nature. The sixth most prevalent disease in the globe, periodontitis has been linked to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Regularly removing dental plaque enhances dental hygiene because the bacteria in the plaque are responsible for 95% of dental illnesses. Additionally, it treats and prevents gum and tooth problems.

Is It Just Me, Or Is It Hard To Maintain Good Oral Health?

Is It Just Me, Or Is It Hard To Maintain Good Oral Health?

Why oral health is important

It’s no secret that good oral health is important. Not only does it help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile, but it also prevents gum disease, tooth decay, and other serious health problems.

But despite its importance, keeping your mouth healthy can be tricky. Between sugary drinks, acidic foods, and the natural aging process, our teeth often take a beating. And if you’re not careful, those small problems can turn into big ones.

That’s why it’s so important to be proactive about your oral health. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly are all key to keeping your smile shining bright.

The different types of dental care products available

There are a variety of dental care products available on the market, and it can be difficult to determine which ones are right for you. Here is a breakdown of the different types of dental care products:

-Toothpaste: There are many different types of toothpaste available, and it is important to choose one that is right for your needs. If you have sensitive teeth, there are toothpastes available that are designed to help with this issue. There are also toothpastes that whiten teeth, and those that contain fluoride to help protect against cavities.

-Toothbrush: There are many different types of toothbrushes available, and it is important to choose one that is comfortable for you to use. Electric toothbrushes can be a good option for those who have trouble brushing their teeth effectively.

-Floss: Flossing is an important part of oral health, and there are many different types of floss available. You should choose a type of floss that is comfortable for you to use, and that will reach all areas of your mouth easily.

-Mouthwash: Mouthwashes can help to remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth, and they come in both alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based varieties. It is important to choose a mouthwash that is right for your needs.

Which state has the best dental care?

There are many factors to consider when determining which state has the best dental care. Some states have more dentists per capita than others, while some have more access to dental insurance. However, one study found that the state of Michigan had the best dental care in the nation.

The study, conducted by the Pew Charitable Trusts, looked at a number of factors to determine which states had the best and worst dental care. These included rates of tooth decay, access to dental insurance and dentists, and quality of dental care. Michigan was found to be the best state for dental care, while Mississippi was found to be the worst.

Common Cosmetic Dental Problems

There are a few common cosmetic dental problems that can arise no matter how well you take care of your teeth. Here are a few of the most common problems and how to fix them.

Yellowing Teeth: Over time, teeth will naturally yellow. This can be caused by food, drink, smoking, and certain medications. There are a few ways to combat yellowing teeth including whitening toothpaste, whitening strips, and professional teeth whitening.

Stained Teeth: Stained teeth are often the result of drinking coffee, tea, or red wine. They can also be caused by smoking or certain medications. The best way to avoid stained teeth is to brush after every meal and avoid foods and drinks that cause staining. If you do have stained teeth, there are a few ways to get rid of the stains including professional teeth whitening and at-home whitening kits.

Crooked Teeth: Crooked teeth are often the result of genetics but can also be caused by injury or thumb sucking as a child. There are a few options for correcting crooked teeth including braces, clear aligners, and veneers.

Gaps in Teeth: Gaps in between the teeth can occur for a number of reasons including genetics, injury, gum disease, or tooth loss. Gaps can be corrected with bonding, veneers, or implants depending on the severity of the gap and also dental veneers help correct many cosmetic dental issues.

Missing Teeth: Missing teeth can occur for a variety of reasons, including tooth decay, gum disease, or injury. Dental implants or bridges can be used to replace missing teeth and restore your smile.

Lastly, if you have bad breath, you may want to consult with your dentist about possible causes and treatment options.

How to maintain good oral health

It is important to maintain good oral health for many reasons. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and what goes into the mouth can affect the whole body. Additionally, good oral health can improve self-esteem and confidence.

There are a few simple things that everyone can do to maintain good oral health. First, brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Fluoride helps to prevent tooth decay bystrengthening tooth enamel. In addition to brushing, flossing daily is also important in order to remove plaque and bacteria from between the teeth and along the gum line. Lastly, visit your dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups.

By following these simple tips, you can maintain good oral health and avoid common dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.

How to find a good dentist

It can be difficult to find a good dentist, especially if you have moved to a new area or your old dentist has retired. Here are some tips on how to find a good dentist:

-Ask your friends, family, and co-workers for recommendations. They may know of a good dentist in the area.

-Check with your local dental society. They may have a list of recommended dentists in the area.

-Call around to different dental offices and ask about their services and fees. You can also ask if they accept your insurance plan.

-Read online reviews of local dentists. This can give you an idea of what other people have experienced at the office.

-Once you’ve found a few potential dentists, make sure to schedule a consultation appointment so you can meet them in person and get a feel for their bedside manner.

The importance of flossing

The importance of flossing cannot be understated. Flossing removes plaque and bacteria from between your teeth and along your gumline – areas that brushing alone cannot reach. A build-up of plaque can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can have serious consequences for your oral health.

Flossing is quick and easy to do, and it only takes a few minutes out of your day. There’s no excuse not to do it! So make sure you add flossing to your daily oral care routine – your teeth will thank you for it.

Conclusion

Looking after your oral health can be tough, especially if you’re not used to it. However, it’s important to do what you can to maintain good oral hygiene. With a little effort, you can keep your mouth healthy and avoid problems down the line. Thanks for reading!

Saving Planet Earth From Human-Generated Mass Extinction

Saving Planet Earth From Human-Generated Mass Extinction

By Suze Wyhldher

It seems we think of energy efficiency is a singular pursuit: one that involves ourselves, community, our family, our workplace. That there is a grassroots basis from the groundswell of taking responsibility for the human ruin we have made of our planet. A planet that now deals with 100 times the impact of us as a species over the last 20 years for a global population 8 billion. In that same time period, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has declared 41,000 plants and animals as endangered.

That’s 28% of just the species already assessed. We have driven 75 mammal, 335 bird, 41 reptile and 65 amphibian species in tropical and subtropical regions to the brink of extinction in just two decades.

That’s not counting the flora and fauna completely and forever wiped out, as a direct result of overwhelming human impact over the last 100 years.

Whatever the accepted demarcation of climate change, and how much of it is a planetary pattern, humankind is not kind, and not blameless.

Not by a long shot. It’s the perfect climate storm when the high-pressure front of consumerism and the warm breeze of nature meet head-on. There have been five previous major extinction events as the result of catastrophic occurrences – like volcanic eruptions, asteroid impact, extreme temperature variations and changing sea levels. Each time, an estimated 70-90% of life on Earth failed to exist.

The sixth mass extinction is happening right now and it’s a crisis predominantly created by humans. Global destruction and fragmentation of habitat, crop and marine overharvesting, over fertilising, the illegal flora and fauna trade, the impact of introduced, and genetically modified species; water, air and soil pollution, climate disruption and an increase of pathogens.

Human activity has always resulted in environmental reformations, but over the last century they have been substantially large-scale. Ecologists and evolutionary biologists are increasingly aware that like any organism, pathogens and parasites evolve with anthropogenic change. There are complex links between the environment, human expansion and parasite development. Across the empirical and theoretical, humans directly and indirectly influence the specificity, virulence and polymorphism in parasites. These influencing factors are as diverse as biodiversity loss, habitat desolation, multi-dimensional pollutants, vaccines and antibiotics, climate change, species’ introduction, and an ageing and medicated worldwide population.

Understanding how parasites evolve in response to anthropogenic interference is the cornerstone of conservation biology.

As of 2022, of the some 41,000 plant and animal species assessed by the IUCN, more than 16,000 have been declared endangered. Experts agree that animals are going extinct at historical rates due mostly to human interference and an unbalanced increase in world population. 74% live in middle-income countries, 17% in the First World and 10% inhabit impencunious nations. This increase in food demand and production obviously requires a broadening of deforestation, a rise in development, proliferating pollution, and an overburdening of ecosystems – with few resounding solutions on a hastening timeline.

Current estimates say species are reaching extinction up to 1,000 times the rate prior to human existence.

Which of course makes sense. It was the transition of Homo sapiens from a nomadic to agricultural life that slapped the mark of mankind across the face of the Earth. It was only 12,000 years ago that we were hunter-gatherers in a world where possessions were limited by what we could carry, and mobility was a survival strategy. Certainly the hunter-gatherer way of life necessitated access to large areas of land in order to find enough in volume and variety of foods – up to 800 square kilometres. Nomads ranged from extended family, to larger groups. Never numbering more than approximately a hundred people, stayed for a few days, weeks and up to six months, reading and sweeping the territory they were in for water supplies, edible plants and game animals. Undoubtedly apex predators, the arrogant destructiveness of modern humankind and its inexorable reach is the cultivation of the the weaponry, hunting tactics and prowess of Paleolithic and Neolithic man.

Like the perpetual miasma that is Charles Shultz’s Pig-Pen, is how mankind has moved through the world for the last 200 years, with the catastrophe of trophic cascades particularly intense over the last fifty. These complex effects disrupt all levels of the ecosystem. When Arctic foxes were introduced to sub-Arctic islands, their abundant seabird diet turned grassland to tundra. Shipping and its ocean pollution’s reduction in sperm whale populations leaves the large squid happily proliferating.

Release the Kraken …

Although we’ve only actually explored 5% of the oceans we’ve managed to pollute 88% of it, with 80% of that being plastic. By 2050 plastic will likely outweigh all the fish in the sea.

Surely by now, the more enlightened definition of humans is the unique super-alpha predator because of our ruthless ‘hunting’ practices. Typically, we take out adult fish populations at 14 times the rate of self-predation.

Year after year 3 trillion fish are hauled from the ocean. Obviously this is far too many and doesn’t count the trillions in bycatch – a word that makes makes the needless slaughter of marine life sound such a casual thing. Should you wonder why fish populations have collapsed worldwide, 300 million annual filet-o-fish purchases worldwide is the tip of the fast-melting iceberg.

And it’s not the only thing we’re doing to fishies in the deep blue sea for the joy to you and me.

By such vast number killings, we exert enormous evolutionary selection pressure. Preferentially catching the fish we like – big ones – we inevitably engineer a critically adverse situation for those fish. Diminished species are less likely to survive, severing breeding lines and effectively creating evolutionary coding for fish to be small.

Aside from the inhumane overfishing of 90% of world fish stocks, 50 million tonnes of that a year is dumped right back into the ocean, and about 35% of catches never making it to the plate. Universal policies that dictate only larger-rather-than-smaller fish can legally be caught, is counterproductive to anything reasonably sustainable or logical.

Fundamentally, apex predators don’t take down adult prey. Juveniles are most vulnerable to attack, and mature animals are left to breed again.

What makes us super predators is our ability to tackle adult prey at minimal cost – all for maximum, short-term gain. Advances in killing technology excuses humans from the formerly dangerous act of predation by the way we now ‘capture’ caged and coralled mammals with bullets and stun guns, and fish with kilometres-long nets. It’s ‘minimal risk carnivoring’ compared to apex carnivores that are often injured and hungry, living what amounts to a dangerous existence.

We took the danger out, and put it into both illicit and legal drugs, long-term poverty, traumatic lifestyles and considering thy neighbour as thine enemy; such is the scrape and scramble for monetary gain in the pursuit of unhappiness.

As predators finding we no longer have any, amid our general disregard for the rest of the planet we turn against ourselves.

Geological eras are periods comprising all the rocks formed during that time, allowing us to study the different stages through which the planet has passed in its 4.5-billion-year existence.

Such is our current negative stamp on the environment it is described by some scientists as a new geological age: the Anthropocene. Add that to the Cenozoic, Mesozoic and Palaeozoic.

Pre-industrially – and again, most specifically since the second half of the last century – changes in climate activity and the trumped up requirements of humans and consequent behaviour have increased the rate of utter environmental degradation to a velocity never seen during any other period in history.

Including much, much longer ones.

Largely, the stance we adopt is not shamefaced but rather shameless and blameless, while making a lot of noise about what’s possible as we continue on our merry malfeasant way. For an inordinate amount of time.

As usual.

We haven’t even cracked equal pay in more than fifty years, and Indigenous voices remain silenced across the planet. For all our technology, AI and scientific superiority, we remain tediously barbaric and addicted to everything unworthy.

At the moment, we’re upset about imperilled ketchup and mustard supplies because of pandemic shortages, harsh weather in western Canada and floods in Western Europe. Ice cream supply is down 1.7% and we had to publish that. Three billion mammals, reptiles, birds and frogs were killed or displaced in just the Australian 2020 fires, and nobody much talks about that.

What we do talk about quite a lot is the future. Depending on where you live and how you spend your intellectual time depends on the info and the outlook you’ll get: surrealistically bleak; or a muskily seductive hallway tour of the cybernetic collective. Focussing on the future does indeed take the mind from this torpid present, and who has time to go wading into the past when nothing is archived anymore anyway.

It’s difficult to know what we learn from the past when we spend so time denying, hiding, or running away from it – the thing you can never do, apparently.

We don’t even much learn from the present.

If we did, there’d be more than just four countries in the world ranked as the most energy efficient – every country would be. For the sake of the planet. To that end, richer countries would help poorer ones; not to own them, but to own the planetary damage done in unconditional reparation.

I know. That’s blown-circuit kind of thinking.

Whether the idea and the implementation of 21st century energy efficiency is a tail-eating dragon. or an elephantine unburdening of our Earth one bite at a time, France, the UK, the Netherlands and Germany are the best at it.

It’s hard to know exactly how that’s accorded; France gets around 20% of its power needs from renewable sources – 8% from wind, and needing more to meet its climate goals. 74.5% is nuclear, 16.3% hydro-electric, 9.1% thermal, with wind power and other renewable sources at 0.1%. The war in Ukraine and disruptions in its conventional electricity generation fleet have France’s energy system under stress.

As a success strategy it’s open to debate, but them there’s the facts.

Germany is transitioning from atomic and fossil fuel energy to renewables. It’s a change that doesn’t come cheaply – funded by levies and taxes. Energy efficiency is an uncomfortable fence on which to sit however you straddle it.

Nowhere even in the Top 10, the Petrostate of Venezuela uses almost 30% renewables.

Or so it says amid all the chaos.

The Earth Science Division of NASA includes data on sunlight, temperature, wind and precipitation for a long-term, global view of the key elements of how our planet works. It’s information that’s put to use by pinpointing renewable energy sites, and improving the energy efficiency of buildings. Its Prediction of the Worldwide Energy Resources (POWER) project avails NASA data to sustainability specialists and decision makers all over the world, whether for schools, private companies, developers, or the building or altering of someone’s home.

It’s pretty much already too late to save our over-populated planet – but maybe if we actually find consensus one day, even if in 200 years, we might give ourselves, and our children’s children’s children, an extra millennium to debate this matter a little more fervently.

Marilyn Monroe Movie Exploits Her Memory in Many Crass Ways

Marilyn Monroe Movie Exploits Her Memory in Many Crass Ways

I tried watching the movie Blonde on Netflix, and it really pissed me off because it was an awesome opportunity to show what a cool person Marilyn Monroe actually was. She was a remarkable woman who was not just an actress but an activist progressive voice in Hollywood. The movie sort of goes over some of this, but it’s all through a story telling lens that paints Monroe as a constant victim, when in reality she was her own greatest champion. Marilyn Monroe is very much the hero of her story.

Marilyn Monroe Movie

She married Arthur Miller after he had been called to testify during McCarthyism and anti-Communist investigations. Miller wrote The Crucible which basically spit in the face of McCarthy, and not only standing with him, but marrying him, was an incredibly brave act at the time. She openly supported Miller while other actors were running scared from McCarthy.

Marilyn Monroe Movie

Marilyn famously stood up for Ella Fitzgerald when Fitzgerald wasn’t allowed to play at the Mocambo and other places in Hollywood because of her race. Fitzgerald said, “I owe Marilyn Monroe a real debt… she personally called the owner of the Mocambo and told him she wanted me booked immediately, and if he would do it, she would take a front table every night. She told him — and it was true, due to Marilyn’s superstar status — that the press would go wild.”

Marilyn Monroe Movie

“The owner said yes, and Marilyn was there, front table, every night. The press went overboard. After that, I never had to play a small jazz club again. She was an unusual woman — a little ahead of her times. And she didn’t know it.”

Michelle Morgan, a Monroe biographer, writes “Marilyn didn’t care what people thought of her. She had this ambition and she wanted to go for it … She was constantly educating herself, always fighting for the rights of herself and other people. And really, she contributed to the breakdown of the studio system by … demanding her rights and demanding to be treated as an individual, as a human being. She was a trailblazer.”

Marilyn Monroe Movie

She took on the studio when they wanted her to do a role she thought was demeaning and she refused. They suspended her contract and expected her to come back with her tail between her legs. Instead, as her wiki explains, “When the studio was still reluctant to change Monroe’s contract, she founded her own film production company in 1954. She dedicated 1955 to building the company and began studying method acting under Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio. Later that year, Fox awarded her a new contract, which gave her more control and a larger salary.”

In 1960, she became a founding member of the Hollywood branch of the Committee for a Sane Nuclear Policy.

Marilyn Monroe Movie

Marilyn Monroe was, plainly stated, a fucking cool person and interesting historical figure. She did have a difficult childhood filled with abuse and bouncing between orphanages and foster homes, but what is remarkable is the fortitude and straight up bad-ass-ness that growing up like this instilled in her. She was actually one of the few actresses that openly talked about film executives trying to sexually exploit actresses, she talked about walking out of interviews after being propositioned, and warned others as much as she could about this predatory behavior. She was out there trying to expose the Weinsteins of her time.

Marilyn Monroe was well read, funny, strong, a good friend, a great step mom. She spent the night of her death consoling Joe Dimaggio Jr. over the phone about a break up. She had been divorced from his dad for a long time, but you don’t divorce kids, and he still saw her as a mom figure.

Marilyn Monroe Movie

To take this human, complicated, fascinating figure and make a movie about her life that amounts to watching her cry for two hours while being abused in various ways is basically a crime. A crime against facts, against women, against historical accuracy, against decency, and against good film making or story telling.

I hope this is the last movie that gets made exploiting her memory in such a gross way, and it’s sad that this movie filled a space that could have been taken by a movie that actually told her real story and did any of it justice.

– by Taylor Renee

Dentists & Monkeypox: Is There a Risk & What Can Dentists Do To Minimise It?

Dentists & Monkeypox: Is There a Risk & What Can Dentists Do To Minimise It?

Regular dental examination forms an integral part of your oral hygiene. The dentist will detect various dental issues during an examination, and monkeypox is a concern. However, most dentists are well equipped to detect monkeypox during an investigation. This may present as a rash on the patient’s tongue and mucous membranes. Luckily, there are stringent hygiene measures in health facilities, and the health provider will follow strict protocols to curb infection control.

Understanding monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease caused by the monkeypox virus. It falls under the variola virus family and resembles the virus responsible for causing smallpox. It is also worth noting that its symptoms may be confused with smallpox but milder. The disease spreads through skin-to-skin contact but can be transmitted through sharing towels, sheets, or respiratory secretions.

Is there a risk of monkeypox for dentists?

Everyone is at risk of contracting monkeypox, and dentists are no exception. As a health provider, you handle different patients and can easily catch colds, flu, and other vital infections from patients. But, not everyone exhibits symptoms, and you can still spread the disease to others even if you don’t show any signs.

Dentists have a role in helping curb infection and the spread of the virus.

The best way to curb the spread of monkeypox among dentists include;

  1. Use of protective gear

Just like with Covid 19, protective gear like masks can minimize the risk of transmission. These can be worn by both patients and health providers alike.

The common requirements for health providers include wearing proper PPE, such as masks. The mask should cover your mouth and nose when attending to patients.

However, dental clinics’ hygiene is already prepared for Covid, HIV and Monkeypox, and dentists don’t have to put in extra measures to comply with monkeypox outbreaks.

  1. Cleaning spills& Stains

Spills and stains may pose the risk of monkeypox in case of saliva, mucus, or other body fluids from an infected patient. Proper and prompt cleaning can help avoid passing the virus to others.

Dentists are advised to maintain high cleanliness levels to reduce the transmission risk.

Disinfect all frequently touched surfaces to eliminate bacteria, viruses, and other disease-causing organisms. Moreover, avoid coming into contact with bedding and other contaminated materials.

  1. Proper handwashing

Disease-causing organisms such as bacteria and viruses are usually spread through coughing, sneezing, and talking within a short distance. You are also at risk of getting infected when you touch contaminated surfaces and touch your face. Therefore, dentists are often advised to ensure regular practice handwashing.

A simple handwash using clean water and soap is an excellent way of keeping bacteria and viruses at bay. Regular handwashing can help avoid colds, flu, Covid 19, monkeypox, and other medical emergencies. But guess what? Emergencies are good for business and can help enterprises adapt to the changing environment and tap into the available opportunities.

Dentists should remember to tell the world that they’re very hygienic and that’s where dental SEO can be very valuable. People will use Google searches to check out aspects of their ideal dentists and so if you’re ranking for dentists and monkeypox as this article does, you can get a certain type of obsessive compulsive disorder clientele who appreciate your attention to detail.

What are the common signs and symptoms of monkeypox?

Seek medical help if you exhibit the following symptoms;

  • Fever
  • Muscle aches and backache
  • Chills
  • Exhaustion
  • Headache
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Sore throat, nasal congestion, and coughs

Final thoughts

Dentists have a risk of monkeypox during their work. This can be attributed to attending to different patients who may be infected with the virus. For this reason, it’s advisable to observe high levels of hygiene to curb infection and spread.

Carnism Debunked

Carnism Debunked

Stab a dog in the throat: Animal murderer
Stab a pig in the throat: Circle of life
Cut a rhino’s horns off: “Poacher scum! Hang him!”
Cut a bull’s horns off: De-horning
Hack a dog’s tail off: Demented animal torturer
Hack a lamb’s tail off: Tail docking
Shove your fist up a cat’s vagina and pump her full of semen: Perverted, twisted, animal molester
Shove your fist up a cow’s vagina and pump her full of semen: Artificial insemination
Lock a cat in a cage for 5 months: Animal abuser
Lock a pig in a gestation crate for 5 months: Quality-assured pork
Kill a lion and pose in a photo with the corpse: Demonised across the world’s media
Kill a pig and pose in a photo with the corpse: “Nice! What time does the BBQ start?”
Breed dogs for the sole purpose of slitting their throats: “What an abhorrent and sickening idea! Shut this place down!”
Breed turkeys for the sole purpose of slitting their throats: “They were bred for that purpose!”
Herd dogs into a gas chamber: Nazi
Herd pigs into a gas chamber: Food chain
Boil a dog alive: Savage; uncivilised; grotesque
Boil a lobster alive: Fine dining
Cut a fold of skin off a cat’s back: Evil, twisted, mutilator of defenceless animals
Cut a fold of skin off a lamb’s back: Mulesing
Snap a dove’s neck: Psychopath
Snap a chicken’s neck: Backyard, family farming
Shoot a dog in the head with a bolt gun: Monstrous barbarism
Shoot a cow in the head with a bolt gun: Humane
Free a dog from a Chinese dog meat farm: Hero
Free a rat from an experimentation lab: Terrorist
Abstain from eating cockroach vomit: Normal
Abstain from eating bee vomit: Extreme; too far
Condemn someone for harming dogs and cats: Kind-hearted, compassionate soul
Condemn someone for harming pigs and cows: Militant; religious fanatic; forcing your views on others
Campaign tirelessly against the dog meat trade: “Wonderful person! Keep up the fight!”
Campaign tirelessly against the chicken meat trade: “Idiot! You’ll never change anything!”
Pack dogs onto a crowded truck for a gruelling 1,000 mile journey to be slaughtered abroad: “Animal torturer! Scum!”
Pack sheep onto a crowded truck for a gruelling 1,000 mile journey to be slaughtered abroad: Exporting goods
Kill a cat for a religious festival and say grace over the corpse: Uncivilised barbarians
Kill a turkey for a religious festival and say grace over the corpse: Christmas
Pull a parrot’s feathers off: Sick individual
Pull a goose’s feathers off: “Wow, these pillows are so comfy.”
Strip a dog’s skin off and wear it: Depraved; psychotic
Strip a cow’s skin off and wear it: Fashion statement
Dog farm: “Demonic! The work of Satan himself!”
Sheep farm: “God put them here for us.”
Kill a puppy and eat them: “Cowardly bastard! How could you harm a creature that has no chance fighting back against us!”
Kill a chicken and eat them: “We’ve evolved to be more dominant than they have. It’s a dog-eat-dog world.”
Hunt a species of large cat to near extinction: “Disgraceful! We must do everything in our power to conserve them!”
Fish a species of large fish to near extinction: “Tuna salad, anyone?”
Ukraine Invaded By Vladimir Putin’s Russia: War Crimes?

Ukraine Invaded By Vladimir Putin’s Russia: War Crimes?

For some time, I have purposefully resisted posting anything regarding Ukraine. Mostly due to the deep complexities, which I have been trying to get my head around, well, since I was 18yo.

The complexities of nationhood, of family, of politics, of history and belief. Belonging to the Ukrainian diaspora, today my heart aches and I am in much distress for family, for the tribes of people that make up the Ukrainian nation state, and humanity on the whole. A very bleak, bleak day.

If you are interested in decent reading on some of the history of Ukraine or on authoritarianism, Anne Applebaum is a good place to start. Her article here outlines the failure of the West’s imagination and diplomacy against Putin’s tyranny.

I took this photo for my parents on a more hopeful day last spring, as it reminded me of the Ukrainian flag:

ukrainian flag ukraine russia vladimir putin invasion meme

Why Ukraine is so Important …

For those who ask:“Why does Ukraine matter? “

This is why Ukraine matters:

It is the second largest country by area in Europe by area and has a population of over 40 million – more than Poland.

Ukraine ranks:

1st in Europe in proven recoverable reserves of uranium ores;

2nd place in Europe and 10th place in the world in terms of titanium ore reserves;

2nd place in the world in terms of explored reserves of manganese ores (2.3 billion tons, or 12% of the world’s reserves);

2nd largest iron ore reserves in the world (30 billion tons);

2nd place in Europe in terms of mercury ore reserves;

3rd place in Europe (13th place in the world) in shale gas reserves (22 trillion cubic meters)

4th in the world by the total value of natural resources;

7th place in the world in coal reserves (33.9 billion tons)

Ukraine is an important agricultural country:

1st in Europe in terms of arable land area;

3rd place in the world by the area of black soil (25% of world’s volume);

1st place in the world in exports of sunflower and sunflower oil;

2nd place in the world in barley production and 4th place in barley exports;

3rd largest producer and 4th largest exporter of corn in the world;

4th largest producer of potatoes in the world;

5th largest rye producer in the world;

5th place in the world in bee production (75,000 tons);

8th place in the world in wheat exports;

9th place in the world in the production of chicken eggs;

16th place in the world in cheese exports.

Ukraine can meet the food needs of 600 million people.

Ukraine is an important industrialised country:

1st in Europe in ammonia production;

Europe’s 2nd’s and the world’s 4th largest natural gas pipeline system;

3rd largest in Europe and 8th largest in the world in terms of installed capacity of nuclear power plants;

3rd place in Europe and 11th in the world in terms of rail network length (21,700 km);

3rd place in the world (after the U.S. and France) in production of locators and locating equipment;

3rd largest iron exporter in the world

4th largest exporter of turbines for nuclear power plants in the world;

4th world’s largest manufacturer of rocket launchers;

4th place in the world in clay exports

4th place in the world in titanium exports

8th place in the world in exports of ores and concentrates;

9th place in the world in exports of defence industry products;

10th largest steel producer in the world (32.4 million tons).

Ukraine matters.

That is why its independence is important to the rest of the world.

By Vanessa Stasiw & Dorota Pudelek

If you are interested in Ukraine Being Invaded By Vladimir Putin’s Russia as War Crimes, decent reading on some of the history of Ukraine or on authoritarianism, Anne Applebaum is a good place to start:

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2022/02/lavrov-russia-diplomacy-ukraine/622075/

Many Russians don’t want this invasion:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/feb/24/we-dont-want-this-russians-react-to-the-ukraine-invasion

Pray for Ukraine

Spike Protein Detox

Spike Protein Detox

Magnesium — plays many crucial roles in the body, such as supporting muscle & nerve function and energy production.

NAC — (a precursor to glutathione) provides a variety of protective antioxidant effects, block damages to DNA, strengthening all organs, including the brain — dissolves mucus, improves breathing & respiratory problems. NAC powers up the immune system, boosting antibodies, increasing glutathione, which fights disease & aging. NAC has been around for decades, proven to be very safe, with NO SIDE EFFECTS.

Glutathione — is the body’s most powerful antioxidant & counteracts the harmful effects of graphene oxide. Human bodies produce glutathione naturally but over as humans age & absorbs toxins, the production of it slows down. Children naturally have high glutathione levels. Glutathione is a body-specific antioxidant that cells need to function & survive. When you get sick, the level of glutathione can drop.

Selenium — a trace element that is naturally present in many foods & available as a dietary supplement. Selenium, which is nutritionally essential for humans, is a constituent of more than two dozen selenoproteins that play critical roles in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis &  protection from oxidative damage and infection.

Quercetin — have significant capability to interfere with SARS-CoV-2 replication and multi-faceted anti-inflammatory and thrombin-inhibitory actions.

Vitamin D/C/A – promotes immune cell proliferation, stimulates antimicrobial peptides, cytokines and immune cell proliferation, enhances mucosal Integrity, antioxidant, protects healthy cells, activated immune cells, antiviral, coordinates cellular immune response.

Zinc – essential for binding capacity & optimizing lethality of immune cells. Promotes antiviral enzyme blocking viral replication.

Zeolite — has a strong attraction to many heavy metals including mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. It also binds to & removes many chemicals like fluorine & chlorine, eliminating free radicals of all types, and it reverses acute chemical & allergic reactions, all without removing vital nutrients from the body. This makes it a maximum detoxifier.

Pine Needle Tea, Fennel See, Star Anise — contains shikimic acid, high levels of antioxidants & DNA-protective properties.

Dandelion Root —  blocks interaction between ACE2, spike protein & variants.

Black Cumin Seed Oil — is natural alternative for Ivermectin. Nigella sativa has been used as traditional medicine for centuries. The oil from its seeds are effective against many diseases like cancer, cardiovascular complications, diabetes, asthma, kidney disease — also effective against cancer in blood system, lung, kidney, liver, prostate, breast, cervix & skin.

Fulvic Acid & Shilajit —  have long been used in traditional medicine & reduces inflammation and boost immunity. Fulvic acid has been well studied for its effects on immune health and inflammation. Improve disease resistance, increase your immune defenses, fight inflammation, chronic diseases & enhance antioxidant activity.

Bio-Fibrin — is a proteolytic enzyme (a process known as proteolysis – help dissolve proteins. There are over 700 identified human enzymes, and each enzyme has a specific biochemical reaction involving a specific substance.

Many of these can be found at:

https://www.starseedfuel.com/shop

Ivermectin — treatment for Covid is now supported by 113 studies, 73 of which have been peer reviewed.

https://t.me/drue86/11936

Activated Charcoal, Chlorophyll, Chlorella, Spirulina, Irish Sea Moss, C-60, Power Immunity, Infrared Sauna, Green Tea, Alkaline Water, Probiotics, Cinnamon & Raw Honey, Avocado, Garlic, Turmeric, Cilantro, Ginger, Cruciferous vegetables & leafy greens are also great detoxes for the body. 

Melbourne’s Dentists Staying Open For Emergency Treatments During COVID Lockdowns

Melbourne’s hospitals have been under a Code Brown during this latest Omicron variant COVID outbreak. One it tempted to say does that mean the ‘you know what’ is hitting the fan? Despite this Melbourne’s dentists staying open for emergency treatments during COVID lockdowns have been a fact of life. Thankfully for all those suffering from tooth ache and other more painful dental problems. As many health professionals have said,” just because we are in the grip of a global pandemic it does not mean all the usual health emergencies have just gone away.”

Emergency Dentists Staying Open in Melbourne

An emergency dentist must respond fast but also with calm and empathy. Once it has been established that you have not contracted COVID-19 your dentist will ascertain the state of your dental requirements. They may check on your vaccination status to evaluate the risk you may pose to other patients and staff within the dental clinic. The Victorian government has not mandated that dental patients must be vaccinated at this point in time. However, a dental clinic may have a policy to treat only vaccinated patients. Check with your dentist prior to making a booking.

A Spike in Dental Emergencies in Melbourne

During a stay at home restriction it is allowed to attend a dentist for emergency dental care. Maintenance of oral health is important for your overall health. A spike in emergency cases occurred during lockdown in Melbourne because Victorians were banned from attending check-ups, according to Victorian dentists. Dentists were forced to close under Stage 4 restrictions, which allowed only emergency procedures. Professor Matthew Horcraft from the Australian Dental Association said, “We’re now seeing an increase in a large number of emergencies- patients presenting with broken teeth, infections and swelling.”

Something like a knocked out tooth especially happens during Saturday sport. It is these kinds of things that cannot be avoided in many instances and demand immediate treatment by dental professionals. Things have blown out on government budgetary levels as well. Putting off the many rudimentary dental visits by Victorians has created a vast backlog of desperate demand for dental services. There will be many such situations as these caused by the COVID lockdowns which will come back to bite us all badly. Putting off stuff always catches up with you in the end. Considering how stressed frontline medical staff already are, how will they cope with this when it arrives?

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