Summer Beauty Tips

We all look forward to summertime, but sometimes the heat and day-to-day activities can become daunting and harmful to our skin and health. Look good, feel good, and stay healthy this summer with our summer beauty guide!

1.       Look good: Lighten up your beauty routine by going lightly on your make-up and letting your hair flow naturally. Exfoliate your skin daily!

2.       Feel good: Eat more fresh fruits and vegetables. Stay hydrated with water and avoid drinks high in sugar. Although tempting, try to swap that ice cream cone for a power smoothie or frozen yogurt instead.

3.       Stay healthy: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every day to all areas that are exposed to the sun. Aside from daily use of sun-screen, boost your UV protection by taking an antioxidant supplement. Ensure your make-up and lip-gloss have at least SPF 15. 

Shen Yun 2013 Tour

Are you looking for some new and exciting entertainment? Well look no further! Shen Yun, a classical Chinese dance performance with a live orchestra is coming to Austin this weekend.  Performing at the Long Center Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Shen Yun Performing Arts combines the traditions of China’s classical arts and legends with dance and music to deliver a spectacular show you are sure to enjoy. Go with family and friends and experience this cultural phenomenon.

Tickets are still available. You can purchase them and learn more about Shen Yun at http://tickets.shenyun.com/event/shen-yun-2013-austin.

Thank You!

We wanted to extend our biggest ‘THANK YOU’ to everyone who was involved in the Girl Rising event! Around 250 people came to support the cause and view the documentary; which was over double the amount we needed to match our goal! Thanks to those in attendance as well as those who helped promote the film. We had such a great turn-out, the theater had to move us into their largest room!

The film was extremely touching and opened our eyes to different issues facing girls around the world. The stories were engaging and gave us a sense of hope for the future.

You can still help the Girl Rising campaign. There are many partners for the organization! Check it out here

Update- Girl Rising Campaign WILL come to Austin

A big thank you to everyone who bought tickets to see the Girl Rising screening on Monday, March 11^th at Arbor 8 at Great Hills! We have reached our goal which has guaranteed that this will happen. You can still sign-up to see the show by February 28^th. The screening will begin at 7:30pm on March 11^th. The film is intended to raise awareness regarding the global movement for girls’ education. We are excited to see everyone there!

Sign up to buy a ticket here: http://bit.ly/WHDgEq

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 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/

*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.

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