Austin’s 8th Annual Community Feast

On Thursday, November 15^th citizens of Austin will come together for Thanksgiving dinner at its 8^th annual community feast.  The event is free to the public but financial gifts can be made. Bring your family and friends and celebrate with the Austin community all you have to be thankful for this holiday season. The feast will be held at Givens Recreations Center from 6:00pm- 8:30pm. 

For more information, please visit http://www.austintexas.gov/event/givens-recreation-center-thanksgiving-dinner. 

Dental Tip - Flossing

Flossing is one of the most effective methods of keeping your teeth and gums healthy yet many overlook it. Don’t skip this step in your oral routine. Follow these simple rules for proper flossing techniques: (www.mayoclinic.com)

·         Don't skimp. Break off about 18 inches (46 centimeters) of dental floss. Wind most of the floss around the middle finger on one hand, and the rest around the middle finger on the other hand — leaving about 1 inch (3 centimeters) to floss your first tooth.

·         Take it one tooth at a time. Use your thumbs and forefingers to gently pull the floss from the gumline to the top of the tooth to scrape off plaque. Rub the floss against all sides of the tooth. Unwind to fresh floss as you progress to the next tooth.

·         Keep it up. If you have trouble getting floss through your teeth, try the waxed variety. If it's hard to manipulate the floss, use a floss holder or an inter-dental cleaner — such as a dental pick or stick designed to clean between the teeth.

Dental Tip - Healthy Brushing

Many of us don’t put much thought into brushing and can develop bad habits of improper brushing. When you brush your teeth, keep in mind these important tips to keep them healthy: (www.mayoclinic.com)

·         Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don't rush. Take enough time to do a thorough job.

·         Use the proper equipment. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Consider using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.

·         Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your gums.

·         Keep your equipment clean. Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Store your toothbrush in an upright position, if possible, and allow it to air dry until using it again. Don't routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers, which can encourage the growth of bacteria.

·         Know when to replace your toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery-operated toothbrush every three to four months — or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

NAMIWalk Austin 5K

Join others is raising awareness and help build better lives for millions of Americans affected by mental illness. The organization NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) will be having their 7^th Annual NAMI Austin Walk on Saturday, October 6^th. Last year the Austin walk had over 2,000 walkers and raised over $200,000 for NAMI’s programs.

For more information and to learn more about how you can help, visit http://www.namiaustin.org/namiwalks/

Pecan Street Festival

This weekend, September 29th & 30th,  kick off fall with the Austin’s 31st Bi-Annual Pecan Street Festival.  Over 600 artisans and performing artists will be showcased at the festival displaying and selling homemade art and craft work. The event is free and hosts games for the kids along with local musicians taking the stage at noon!  Kid’s activities include carnival rides, face painting, and a petting zoo. As the oldest and largest art festival in Central Texas, over 300,000 people attend each year.  Located on 6^th street in the heart of Austin, the festival combines a diverse group of people and promotes community in Central Texas. Be sure to come out and show your support.

For more information about vendors and events, visit http://www.oldpecanstreetfestival.com

Dr. Patel Awarded Fellowship from ICOI

This week, Dr. Patel was in Orlando, FL for the ICOI World Congress meeting where he was awarded a Fellowship from the organization for his achievements in Implant Dentistry. Founded in 1972, the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI) is an association of general dentists, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, periodontists, prosthodontists, endodontists, orthodontists, laboratory technicians, auxiliaries, industry representatives, researchers, faculty members, pre and post doctoral graduate dental students as well as the general public (www.icoi.org). The ICOI strives to provide high quality education to their members in order for them to better serve their patients.

Dr. Patel received Fellowship from the ICOI by achieving the following credentials:

-Completion of 20 implant cases all of which are at least 12 months old.

-Providing documentation of completion of 75 hours or more of implant education (either attending in person or completing courses on-line) in the preceding 5 years.

-Providing a letter of recommendation from a current ICOI Fellow, IPS Master, ICOI Diplomate or member of ICOI's Advanced Credentials Committee.

-Submission of a current Curriculum Vitae

Upon receiving the award, Dr. Patel said: “It was so cool to see and meet so many dentists from around the world! The presenters and speakers were top notch and it’s awesome to learn about all the advancements and trends in implant dentistry."

Congratulations to Dr. Patel on achieving this milestone and pursuing the visions of the ICOI.

Dr. Patel visits Africa!

 One of the most rewarding experiences in life is being able to give back to others while doing what you love to do. Dr. Patel recently was able to combine his love for dentistry, giving back, and travel into a volunteer trip to Africa in August. Dr. Patel and his family traveled to Tswalu Kalhari in Southern Africa and Livingstone Town in Zambia.

On his trip, Dr. Patel began by volunteering at the Tswalu Dental Clinic which is a part of the Tswalu Foundation created by Johnathan Oppenheim. The foundation’s mission is to develop a platform where visitors can get involved in the community and contribute in various ways. Dental professionals can volunteer to treat patients and educated them on oral health. Actively involved in this foundation, Dr. Patel with the help of Carey Barrs of Benco Dental Supplies, donated over 150 toothbrushes, toothpaste, and floss. He also helped treat many patients and donated much needed dental supplies and equipment to the community. Dr. Patel and his family also visited the local school in Tswalu where they donated school supplies to the children and teachers. It was truly an amazing experience for Dr. Patel and the residents were extremely welcoming and exited to meet him and his family.

Dr. Patel also had the opportunity to visit Zambia where he traveled to the Nakatindi village and community school located outside of Livingstone town. With an estimated population of 3000 people and average household income of $80 per month, Sanctuary Retreats (a philanthropy project) works to help these communities improve their general well-being. This includes the areas of infrastructure, skill development, education, future welfare, and most importantly health and dental care. The Nakatindi village has 500 children of which 2/3 are orphaned. Seventy-five percent of residents are affected by HIV. Dr. Patel and his family are strong supporters of this cause and financially donated to help improve the village and its community school. There are several community projects that are working to improve the village including a feeding program to provide lunch to the children, a vegetable garden, and future hopes to build a medical clinic to provide healthcare.

Reflecting on his trip and the memories and experiences he has received, Dr. Patel says, “Visiting this village was an extremely profound experience. It was a mix of sorrow and happiness. The happiness came from seeing the smiles and enthusiasm and excitement of all of the children within the community. They were so joyful and content, even though they have so little and even with the alarming conditions that they live in. The sorrow comes from knowing that they are not only orphaned, and barely get one meal a day, but also that many of them are affected by HIV and that don't have access to healthcare or medicines that could improve their health. I’m so grateful to have had such an experience for myself and for my family to be able to see how many others live on the other side of the world. It definitely reinforced the appreciation and gratitude for all that we are so fortunate to have. Seeing the world, the entire volunteer experience, and being able to give back to others is a truly rewarding experience”.

With plans to return to these villages, Dr. Patel will continue to pursue his passions of dentistry and giving back by supporting these causes both now and in the future. He cannot place a value on this trip and knows his experiences and memories will always be priceless. Dr. Patel has traveled internationally as a volunteer dentist to Nicaragua, Brazil, Peru, and now Africa and hopes to continue to educate and treat children and adults in underprivileged communities.

Austin Teen Book Festival

As the largest teen book festival in the country, Austin hosts the 4^thannual Teen Book Festival at the Palmer Events Center September 29^th from 9:30 a.m – 5 p.m! Thirty-six of the most popular and acclaimed young adult fiction authors will be there along with 6 panels and 4 opportunities to listen to the authors speak about their books. The keynote speakers will include award-winners Neal Shusterman and Libba Bray. Shusterman is widely known for hisUnwind trilogy and Texas’ own Libba Bray is the author of 6 young adult novels, most notably Beauty Queens which was listed as Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Books 2011.

Other authors include Marissa Meyer, Leigh Bardugo, Scott Speer, Jesse Andrews, Ally Condie and many more! And the best part of the festival? It’s absolutely free! For more information including authors and the full schedule visit www.austinteenbookfestival.com

Tony Bennett Comes to Austin

You can watch and listen to a true legend perform at the Moody Theater, Wednesday September 12^th at 8:00pm. ACL Live presents legend Tony Bennett and tickets are still available.

With a career that began in the late 1930s, Bennett has had dozens of platinum and gold albums, has received 15 Grammy Awards, and has had two dozen songs in the Top 40.  With this truly impressive resume, his performance in Austin guarantees rave reviews.

To purchase tickets, visit http://www.acl-live.com/calendar/2012/9/tony-bennett-2012

LEGO KidsFest is Coming to Austin

This weekend, bring your kids to experience the creative, hand-on fun of LEGO building and activities. Held at the Austin Convention Center, children of all ages are welcome and so are builders of all skills and interests. Sure to be fun for the entire family, LEGO KidsFest will span over Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and will offer various activities and entertainment.  A tentative schedule is as follows:

Friday, August 31
4 pm - 8:30 pm

Saturday, September 1
Session I: 9 am – 1:30 pm
Session II: 3 pm – 7:30 pm

Sunday, September 2
Session I: 9 am – 1:30 pm
Session II: 3 pm – 7:30 pm

(Note: Each session offers the same exhibits and activities)

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: http://www.legokidsfest.com/austin/index.html

Happy Back to School Week Austin

I know it’s tough getting back into the school routine, but here are some fun reads to get you and your kids ready to go back to school.

The summer holiday was over and young Jack returned to Wicor school. Only two days later his teacher phoned his mother to tell her that Jack was misbehaving. 'Wait a minute,' mother said. 'I had Jack with me for six weeks and I never called you once when he misbehaved.

******************

Teacher : John, why are you doing your math multiplication on the floor?

John : You told me to do it without using tables.

********************

School Learning Nathan comes home from his first day at school. Mother asks, 'What did you learn today?' He replies, 'Not enough. I have to go back tomorrow.'

********************

Mia: I think we need a new teacher. Mum: Why is that? Mia: Our teacher doesn't know anything, she keeps asking us for the answers.

Have a great first week kids, parents, and teachers!

Back to School Dental Tips

It’s that time again! Summer has come and gone, but now we have to get our kids ready for a new school year. With the hustle and bustle of school supplies, schedules, and after school activities don’t forget the health checklist. A dental exam is on the top of many parents’ back to school checklist.  One of the main causes why children miss school is because of a toothache. There are several things you can do to keep your child’s teeth healthy in between dental visits.

1.       Brushing- Look for a tooth paste with fluoride in it and brush for at least 2 minutes

2.       Flossing- If your child does not have all of their permanent teeth, brushing usually takes care of the flossing part. Flossing becomes more and more important as your child grows and gets their permanent teeth.

3.       Diet- Watching what your kids eat and drink can help keep their teeth healthy. Candy, sugar, and acidic foods can cause serious wear and tear on their teeth. Try to squeeze in crunchy veggies and swap out sodas and sugary drinks for water whenever possible

Lakeway Smiles wishes everyone a happy and safe school year!

Austin Chronicle Hot Sauce Festival

Calling all hot and spicy food lovers! Known as the world’s largest hot sauce festival, this year marks Austin’s 22^nd annual celebration.  Drawing as many as 15, 000 spectators and more than 350 entries each, the Hot Sauce Festival has become one of Austin’s largest and best-known parties. The festival also is a major fundraiser for the Capital Area Food Bank of Texas. With live music and great salsa, come join the fun this Sunday, August 26^th at Fiesta Gardens. Get in free with a donation of three healthy, nonperishable food items to the Capital Area Food Bank. For more information, visit http://www.austinchronicle.com/Market/HotSauce/

Sedation Dentistry

Do you get nervous even thinking about a visit to the dentist? At both of offices, we offer a variety of sedation dentistry to help ease your experience and make you feel better about your visit. A variety of options are available:

-You can have nitrous oxide (laughing gas), which many people are familiar with, and which relaxes you without impairing your consciousness of your surroundings.

-You can have a stronger sedative Dr. Patel will prescribe for you. These medications will calm you and make you tired and sleepy. You would take it before leaving home that day, so you’d need someone to drive you to Dr. Patel’s sleep dentistry office, and home again afterwards. With this option you’ll feel drowsy and calm, but still be able to hear requests from the staff.

We will discuss your level of anxiety to determine which medication is right for you. Dr. Patel has completed courses in conscious sedation dentistry, and monitors your vital signs during the procedure at all times. He will also make sure that the sedation medications do not conflict or interact in a harmful way with your current medications. 

Austin Office: 512-476-2336

Lakeway Office: 512-263-8337

Cosmetic Dentistry

Have you ever considered cosmetic dentistry? Our offices offer a variety of services to improve your smile from orthodontics, bonding, veneers, and Invisalign.  If you’re considering but unsure about any cosmetic procedure, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I hide my smile behind my hand?
• When having my picture taken, do I smile with my mouth closed?
• Am I embarrassed by the color or shape of my teeth?
• Is there too much gum and not enough teeth showing when I smile?

 If you answered yes to any of these questions, our offices can help you with a smile makeover. Contact our offices today for your FREE consultation!

Austin Office: 512-476-2336

Lakeway Office: 512-263-8337

Austin Fashion Week

Calling all fashionistas out there!! Next week is Austin Fashion Week and events will be held every night from Friday, August 10^th- Saturday, August 18^th! Come check out some amazing local talent along with, great food and drinks, and discover new and classic trends in fashion.  From its inception in 2009, Austin Fashion Week has grown into a huge and popular showcase with over 80 events spread out over the week.

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit http://fashionweekaustin.com/

Austin’s 6th Annual Ice Cream Festival

You scream, I scream, we all scream for ICE CREAM! July has come to end and August is here! Beat the summer heat and come out to Austin’s 6^th Annual Ice Cream Festival.  The festival takes place, Saturday August 4^th at Fiesta Gardens from 10AM-7PM.  There is a $10 entry fee, BUT you get FREE ice cream all day! Kids 8 and under are FREE!  Games, activities, and live entertainment will be provided for you and your family. 

Think you can make the best ice cream or eat the most? The festival also offers several contests for you to participate including the home-made ice cream making contest and the ice cream eating contest! Come indulge your sweet tooth and support your local Austin businesses. See you there!  For more information about the festival and how to enter a contest, visit: http://www.icecreamfestival.org/

*Last Chance* - Children’s Day Art Park

This Wednesday, bring the kids to celebrate Children’s Day Art Park. The summer program features local musicians, dancers, storytellers, magicians, mimes, and craft people.  Admission is 50 cents per child and Wednesday is the final installment of the summer series.  Activities are available from 9:30AM-11:30AM at the Symphony Square Amphitheater.  The Biscuit Brothers will provide this week’s entertainment.  Summer is flying by, so grab the kids and experience the amazing arts Austin has to offer one last time before it’s over. For more information, visit http://www.austinsymphony.org/events/childrens-day-art-park/

Roller Derby Fans: Austin Hosts The Star of Texas Bowl

Looking for a fun, cool event to check out? This weekend, the best of the best in roller derby will compete at The Star of Texas Bowl presented by The Texas Rollergirls. You can experience two days of roller derby competition and events at the Austin Convention Center.  Competitors include Texas Rollergirls, The Texecutioners, Gotham Girls, Windy City Rollers, B.ay A.rea D.erby Girls, and The Golden Girls.  

Tickets range from $20-$55. 

For more information, visit http://www.texasrollergirls.org/bouts/star-of-texas-bowl/.

How Often Do You Brush?

Everyone is different and takes care of their teeth in diverse ways. But have you ever asked yourself, “How often do I really need to brush my teeth?” Most people assume twice a day is enough to maintain a healthy smile. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice a day is the minimum you need to sustain your oral health. One of those brushings should be before you sleep. If you snack and drink throughout the day, plaque, bacteria, and acidic foods are harmful to your teeth and gums. In these instances it is extremely beneficial to brush after each meal.  

Also, drinking plenty of water can help reduce the production of harmful acids. Each individual decides how little or how much they brush, but if you keep the details above in mind, you can effectively decide when you need to brush. Also, combined with flossing and mouthwash, you can effectively maintain healthy teeth and gums.

Are You Afraid Of The Dentist?

Are you afraid of going to the dentist?  Here at Lakeway Smiles we offer some of the latest technologies in dental sedation.  Many of you have heard of laughing gas (nitrous oxide), but did you know that we are able to offer a stronger sedative that helps with anxiety and will allow you to "sleep" through your appointment.  This is offered in pill form.  Dr. Patel has completed courses in conscious sedation dentistry, and monitors your vital signs during the procedure at all times. He will also make sure that the sedation medications do not conflict or interact in a harmful way with your current medications.

Give us a call today if you are interested in world-class sedation dentistry! 

Lakeway - 512-263-8337

Downtown Austin - 512-476-2336

You can also send us an email at Team@LakewaySmiles.com 

Happy 4th of July Austin!

I’m sure everyone is excited about the mid-week holiday! In case you’re looking for a way to celebrate, check out The Austin Symphony Orchestra which features patriotic music, the 1812 Overture and spectacular fireworks over Lady Bird Lake.

 The ASO will begin performing at 8:30PM and fireworks will take place from 9:30PM-10:00PM. The event is free and open to the public located at Auditorium Shores. No matter how you plan to celebrate, Everyone here at Lakeway Smiles would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy 4^th of July. 

Enter Our Summer Giveaway

This summer you have the chance to win a KINDLE FIRE! Just visit our Google Places listing and write us a review. Then, shoot us an email with a link to your review. You will be automatically entered into a drawing for the Kindle Fire.  The drawing will be at the end of July and two winners will be chosen, so be sure to get your review in by July 31^st.

Even if you have written us a review before, you can still enter our contest by reviewing us on Google Places. We would love to hear your feedback, so be sure to enter soon! 

STEP 1:

If you have visited either of our locations, please review us:

Downtown Office: https://plus.google.com/117487729041567203653

Lakeway Office: https://plus.google.com/108331181192477132958

STEP 2:

Email us with a link to review:

Email: Team@LakewaySmiles.com

Subject: Kindle Fire

Teeth Whitening Pen - Does it Work?

There are so many whitening products on the market, but what really works? One of the latest products is the teeth whitening pen. The Whitening Pen uses a 5.25% hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel delivered from its brush. The whitening pen acts both as a follow-up whitener, applied to maintain the salon treatment, or as a stand-alone whitening product for at-home use. As you might expect, the brush-on teeth whitening involves brushing a hydrogen peroxide bleaching gel onto the surface of teeth, one tooth at a time. This brushing activity is similar to the way polish is applied to fingernails. Once the brush-on gel has been applied to a tooth's surface it solidifies so to form a somewhat invisible film. There are mixed reviews on the pen, but it varies for each individual. If you’re interested, I say give it a shot and see how it works for you.

If you have any questions about teeth whitening services and what we offer, please contact us:

Phone:
512.263.8337 if you are in the Lakeway, TX area.
512.476.2336 if you are in the Austin, TX area.

Email:
Team@LakewaySmiles.com

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/austin.lakewaydentist.tejas.patel.dds

Twitter:
https://www.twitter.com/DrTejasPatel

Healthy Summer Recipe For Your Kids!

Keep your children healthy all summer with these fun and healthy snack recipes!

Watermelon Honeydew Kabobs with Dressing:

Dressing

·         3 Tbs. fresh lime juice

·         3 Tbs. honey

·         1 1/2 tsp. poppy seeds

·         1/4 tsp. salt

Kabobs

·         2-3 pound honeydew melon, halved, seeded

·         1 small seedless watermelon, cut into 3/4-inch-thick slices

·         24 6-inch bamboo skewers

Instructions

1.       Whisk first 4 ingredients in medium bowl

2.       Gradually whisk in oil

3.       Using large melon-baller, scoop out 72 balls of honeydew

4.       Using 1 1/4-inch round fluted cookie cutter, cut out 48 rounds from watermelon slices

5.       Alternate 3 honeydew balls and 2 watermelon rounds on each skewer

Note: This can be made 4 hours ahead. Cover dressing and kabobs separately; chill. Serve kabobs with dressing.

Cottage Cheese Dip for Vegetables

Ingredients

·         2 (8 ounce) cartons low fat cottage cheese

·         1 cup (4 ounce) shredded low fat process American cheese

·         3 TBS plain unsweetened low fat yogurt

·         2 TBS prepared horseradish

·         1/2 teaspoon pepper

·         1/4 teaspoon salt

·         2 TBS chopped green pepper

·         2 TBS minced onion

Instructions

1.       Mix all ingredients together and chill for at least one hour before serving.

2.       Serve with sticks of celery, carrots, cucumber, cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets for a gourmet crudite platter.

3.       Variation: Add salsa as a top layer or mix in with other ingredients for added flavor and color