Thank you 2021!

The early months of 2021 bring the promise of hope and maybe even a glimmer of the beginning of the end of some seriously challenging times. And, as always, the blank page of a new year carries the possibilities of health, happiness, and prosperity. And it’ll be helpful to be looking and listening for any and all things positive; if we do, we’ll stand a far better chance of finding them.

2020 wasn’t an easy blank page to fill, but if you’re reading this, we can find some things for which we can be grateful. Retaining good health came close to achieving solitary confinement (and it’s a good thing I already talk to myself throughout the day, especially while on the road.) Happiness from a simple hug became a memory, but then, what are elbows for anyway? And prosperity was more an exercise in survival…unless your name is Peloton or Zoom. But if anything, we humans are adaptable. And it’ll be hard, but together, we’ll figure things out.

What I learned long ago was breakdowns facilitate breakthroughs. My stellar Cal State, LA Q1 2.13 GPA and the resulting conversation with my Dad made me world class student. My mom’s illness and our journey through America’s healthcare system helped me become a better son and a true care giver after 20 years in practice.

As of December 4, 2020, there have been zero reported Covid-19 virus transmissions to patients in U.S. dental offices. A dental office is a safe place; always has been. And since the onset of the pandemic, dental offices have undoubtedly become even safer. I’d go so far to say we’ve also become transformed active listeners. And another thing, patients can easily tune out our notorious monologues since; who can decipher any of the words traveling through two masks and a visor?

During our initial 14-weeks away, we secured all the necessary PPE and more…without stooping to Black Markets levels (I’m NOT saying the thought never occurred.) Each room has HEPA air filtration. Plastic and plexiglass barriers isolate all areas. Foggers help us mist rooms with HOCL disinfectant between patients (I’ve never used the HOCL fogger, but it looks like fun; maybe that’s why our dental assistants won’t share?) We’ve developed protocols to insure the safe flow of healthy patients. Following the onset of Covid-19, dental practices have become a safe haven, and a place where you and your immune system can become healthier.

Research shows the connection between oral health and general health has never been stronger. And a pandemic has made dental care safer just when it’s never been more important.

Another breakdown causing a breakthrough; we just have to look for them.

So, if it’s been a while, please don’t miss an important opportunity. Why not manage a key component of your health when you can actively make a difference?

Hope to be seeing y’all again or meeting you soon.