Lauren Poth, PhD
Pediatric Neuropsychology
“I love being able to work with children directly, as well as providing their families important information regarding their strengths and weaknesses to inform a comprehensive, targeted treatment plan.”
Dr. Poth was born and raised in Los Alamos, NM, and completed her bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of New Mexico. She moved to San Diego, CA, to complete her doctoral degree in clinical psychology and specializes in pediatric neuropsychology.
Dr. Poth approaches patient care from the scientist-practitioner foundation. She begins with understanding the current evidence base and incorporates each patient’s unique presenting factors to identify what contributes to their functional, everyday difficulties.
Pediatric Neuropsychology Evaluations
Pediatric neuropsychology evaluations seek to clarify your child’s neurobehavioral strengths and weaknesses. Evaluations typically begin with an intake appointment during which Dr. Poth will ask questions about your child’s development, history, and your current concerns. Next, your child will come in-person to complete the testing appointment, which typically takes about 4-5 hours and consists of various activities, including paper and pencil tasks and computer-based tasks. Finally, Dr. Poth will meet with you for the feedback appointment to discuss the evaluation results, diagnoses, and recommendations, which will then be available in a comprehensive report.
Pediatric Neuropsychology evaluations may be helpful for:
• Medical conditions (such as epilepsy or brain tumors)
• Genetic disorders (such as Trisomy X Syndrome)
• Learning disorders (such as dyslexia or math disorders)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Other developmental conditions (such as intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorders)
Practice Location
Aumann Building
444 NW Elks Drive, Corvallis, OR 97330
Appointments: (541) 754-1288
Internship: University of California, Los Angeles Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, Los Angeles, CA, 2020
Fellowship: Advanced Neurobehavioral Health of Southern California, San Diego, CA, 2022
Education: PhD, Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University/University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program, San Diego, CA, 2020; MS, Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA, 2016; BS, Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, 2012
Certification: Licensed Psychologist
Photos by Marilla Kay
meet the experts
[They know what they’re talking about]
Health
Let’s Talk Health with Samaritan Health Services, page 6
Home
Reimagine Your Home with Rylee Henderer, page 8
Natural
Natural Choices with Jasmin Woodside, page 7
Pets
Pets are Family with Dr. Josiah Moses, page 10
Say Cheese
Say Cheese with Dr. Wade Haslam, page 24
Thrive
Helping Kids Thrive with Karen Swanger, page 12
Focus
Focus on MOM with Dr. Carli Lancaster, page 28
Smile
Something to Smile About with Dr. Jay Vaikuntam page 30
Learn
Partners in Education with Anna Marie Gosser, page 14
Publisher Matthew Nelson, Active Media, Inc PO Box 672, Aurora OR 97002-0672 info@activemediausa.com 503-825-2100
Editor-in-Chief
Managing Director Audrey Meier DeKam audrey@mommag.com
Mid-Valley & Lane County Business Development Manager Linda Blair linda@mommag.com 541-231-7250
Marion & Polk County Business Development Manager
Kim Leighty kim.leighty@mommag.com 503-510-9036
Designer Sean Carver sean@activemediausa.com
Editor’s Note
A love letter to readers
This year MOM Magazine celebrates our 20th birthday. It’s an incredible feat in our industry, with all the dazzling digital distractions out there competing for your attention. Good news: video did not kill the radio star, nor has the internet killed print. It was mid-March 2020 when I took the job as this magazine’s third editor-in-chief, straight into the pandemic and (thankfully) out the other side. But I was a devoted reader long before that, when my first child was born in 2006. Back then, I was a new mom and came across this neat little magazine that led me to local resources I needed. Seeing faces and spaces I recognized in print has always felt special; as the saying goes, representation matters.
We’re always striving to make our magazines relevant to parenting life in the Mid-Willamette Valley and Oregon. With magazines customized to Salem, Eugene and Albany/Corvallis, our cover moms are always real, local moms.
And we’ve always been free: our advertisers’ support allows us to distribute this magazine to be read by any and all, and we’re wildly proud of that. There are no barriers to accessing our stories and information. One of the best compliments we often hear is, “It’s free? Wow, it looks so nice!” It’s why we have to put the word FREE on our covers. Our magazines have been rolled up and tucked in diaper bags, thumbed through in waiting rooms and lobbies. Our pages have been dog-eared to remember that great little preschool you saw advertised, or pediatrician, clothing shop, parenting class and so much more.
Serving as editor-in-chief has been my most favorite job in my entire working life. When a reader stops me on the street or at a school event and says they read my column, I consider them my instant bestie. Send me your thoughts and ideas — I love hearing from readers.
The best birthday present you have given MOM Magazine is your support. May we have many more years sharing all things local together. Thank you.
Audrey Meier DeKam
QA
Have a question you forgot to discuss at the doctor’s office or are too embarrassed to ask? The experts at Samaritan Health Services are here to help.
Q: I’m told I have fibroids, but I’m not sure what this means and what to do about it.
A: Over 75% of women will develop fibroids during their childbearing years.
These non-cancerous tumors grow within the uterine wall and can lead to uncomfortable symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, a constant feeling of fullness, frequent urination, constipation, pelvic pain and pain during intercourse.
Many women delay seeking treatment due to uncertainty or hope that the symptoms
will improve. Unfortunately, fibroids and associated symptoms grow over time and typically get worse over the reproductive years.
Treatment options include medication, surgery and a new minimally invasive procedure called Acessa. Acessa offers a short recovery time and less discomfort. The Acessa procedure shrinks the fibroids by about 45% and changes the fibroid texture from the hardness of a lacrosse ball to a marshmallow consistency. As a result,
Q: My friend had a heart attack — and she’s a woman! I thought this was only a concern for men.
A: Nearly 45% of women ages 20 and up are living with some form of cardiovascular disease and less than half of women entering pregnancy in the U.S. have optimal cardiovascular health, according to the American Heart Association.
Studies have shown women wait longer before seeking care because their heart attack symptoms are often less dramatic than men’s, especially when it comes to chest pain.
Paying attention to your body, and new symptoms, is extremely important. Be as detailed as possible when describing your symptoms to the doctor to help ensure a correct diagnosis.
patients experience a significant reduction in their symptoms.
A key advantage of Acessa is that it preserves the uterus, which is crucial for women who wish to maintain their fertility or avoid major surgery and recovery time.
If you are dealing with fibroid symptoms, discuss your options with your health care provider.
— Ashley St. Germain, MD, specializes in obstetrics and gynecology, Samaritan Lebanon Health Center
Call 911 or get to the hospital right away if experiencing:
• Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest lasting more than a few minutes or that goes away and comes back.
• Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
• Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
• Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
• Chest pain or discomfort.
Samaritan has heart specialists for virtually all major heart conditions. We seamlessly manage your care, from primary to specialty care, to give you the best opportunity for a positive experience and outcome.
— Monica Thukral, adult nurse practitioner, Samaritan Cardiology – Corvallis
Kids can be a big help in the kitchen
You’ve just got to start ‘em small (like they are!). Before long, they’ll be your silly little sous chefs. You’ll find everything you need for these recipes at First Alternative Co-op. Two easy options to get those kiddos cooking…
Chewy chocolate chip cookies | Finely crush 3 sleeves graham crackers (1 box) by putting them in resealable bags and crushing them with a rolling pin. In a large mixing bowl, mix crumbs, 1 cup chopped walnuts, and 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips by hand. Add 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk, mixing by hand, until all the dough is moist.
Drop by teaspoonful onto a parchment paper-lined cookie sheet. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until the bottoms are slightly brown. Cookies will be slightly soft in the middle. Gently slide parchment and cookies off onto a wire rack to cool slightly before peeling off cookies.
Top-your-own tostadas | Lightly brush tortillas with olive oil and bake at 300° for 10 min. Flip and brush with more oil and bake for 5 minutes or until crisp. Heat refried beans; spread beans lightly over each tortilla. Sprinkle with cheese then broil until cheese melts. Top with toppings of your choice, including sliced bell peppers, avocado, shredded lettuce, etc. Let the kids pick and choose what looks tasty to them.
Jasmin Woodside of First Alternative Co-op and her children.
Smart kitchen storage solutions
FOR FAMILIES, THE KITCHEN IS WHERE LIFE HAPPENS.
Cabinetry plays a vital role in keeping your kitchen functional and stylish. Many parents know the frantic search for that elusive sippy cup or homework folder that landed somewhere in countertop clutter. Thoughtful cabinet design can make the difference between chaos and peace. When remodeling your kitchen, consider some of these smart storage solutions we’ve done for some of our clients.
With corner cabinet pull-outs, you won’t have to go spelunking to find your stock pot.
Dreamy spice drawers aren’t just for Pinterest. You can have them in real life.
Rylee Henderer | DESIGNER
Tucked-away paper towel storage frees up valuable counter space.
more, with smart dividers that allow easy visual and access.
Rylee Henderer grew up around construction job sites, sweeping up endless sawdust in the shop. She formally joined her family’s business in 2017 and learned everything from demolition and framing, to tile and cabinetry installation. From there, Rylee grew into client management, and along the way found a love for design. She is now a full-time designer, creating beautiful, innovative spaces for Henderer Design + Build + Remodel.
CUSTOM CABINETRY VS. STOCK CABINETS
Custom cabinetry brings the most value to your home. They are perfectly measured and designed to fit the dimensions of your space. Additionally, custom cabinet makers use real wood and sturdy materials whereas stock cabinetry often lacks in the quality of materials. If you’ve had chipped MDF panels and drawer faces that fall off, then you get it. Stock cabinets are also predesigned (and not with your space in mind), which can bring a lack of functionality to the entire space.
Yes, custom cabinetry is typically more expensive but you get what you pay for. Between resale value, depreciation and repairs, stock cabinets are likely to cost you much more and bring you less satisfaction down the road.
If you want a discreet charging drawer with outlets for devices, or an easy-access dedicated snack drawer for kids, custom cabinetry is the way to get them. Our design team collaborates with you to make custom cabinetry that is perfect for your space.
The abyss of the sheet pan drawer is no
Preschool through 8th Grade
• Exceptional foundation of core subjects & critical thinking skills
• Character education
• Service learning
• Advanced science & math classes
• Art, music, PE, drama, and 3 world languages
• Middle school/Lower school Buddy Days
• Extracurricular opportunities
• Afterschool Program Call 541-766-8313 to check enrollment availability in Preschool through 8th grade.
Over 25 years of excellence driven by outstanding teachers, small class sizes, well-equipped learning environments and strong parent-school partnerships.
Ashbrook Independent School 4045 SW Research Way, Corvallis 541-766-8313 | ashbrookschool.org
Rehoming a pet
Rehoming can often lead to feelings of shame or guilt, or that we are doing something wrong. But when done properly, this couldn’t be further from the truth.
When we get a furry (or scaly) friend, we sign up for a commitment to care for that animal. However, there are many factors that affect how that animal integrates into the family. Behaviors are the common drivers, but there can be many others. Not only can animals change as they develop, there are often unforeseen circumstances for humans that can occur overnight. What can then happen is this beautiful commitment to a pet mutates into feelings of guilt, despite the fact that forces outside of our control have created a different story.
A simple but tough question to guide you: What is best for this pet in the long run? You don’t have to navigate this alone; check in with your veterinarian and local animal shelter. They should have resources to work through certain behaviors or other issues. But if the differences are too great, then know that rehoming can truly be a gift to your pet for the best life possible.
Brought to you by:
Josiah Moses, DVM | Eastgate Veterinary Clinic
Summer isn’t too far away
Even though it’s still cold and rainy, most moms know that planning starts now for summer camps. KidSpirit is excited to announce that registration is currently open for Summer Day Camps.
For kids, summer is an exciting time to get outside, play all day and have a break from the routine of school. However, this shift from structured activities to summer can sometimes leave kids missing the daily routine that helps them grow and thrive.
Our Summer Day Camps combat this by creating the perfect mix of structure and fun. We provide a safe space for kids not to just play, but to grow as they remain engaged and active while gaining skills such as team building, confidence and independence. Your child can explore becoming a stand-out chef, a super swimmer, a graceful gymnast, and so much more.
Visit kidspirit.oregonstate.edu to secure your child’s summer of fun. The sunshine will be here before we know it!
Karen Swanger Director of OSU KidSpirit Brought to you by: OSU KidSpirit, Extension and Engagement kidspirit.oregonstate.edu
Growing confidence
Confidence is a child’s sense of self-assurance and trust in themselves to make decisions, take risks and try something new with the best outcome in mind. Confidence is like a muscle: If you never use it, it’s weak at first. But with some practice and exercise, the confidence muscle can grow stronger. To help your child grow theirs, encourage them to:
• Speak kindly about themselves and others. Positive and encouraging self-talk matters.
• Practice powerful body language: how we stand, what we do with our hands, how we use our facial expressions.
• Choose to be positive: name three benefits of being confident.
• Ask for help: be a learner and advocate for yourself so you can develop the skills you need.
• Believe that you can succeed (self-doubt sinks the ship before it sails). Most children need to practice self-confidence as a skill, which is to repeat it over and over until it becomes second nature. Children who are more confident see more positive results in their life in personal relationships, academics and community engagement.
www.santiamchristian.org 541-745-5524 x 243
Brought to you by: Anna Marie Gosser Santiam Christian Elementary Principal
For Parents in Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties
What was the pivotal event that inspired... haveIwonderwhatmight happenedif...
Oh, I know! It’s because...
Oregon’s Battle of the Books
If you have school-aged children, you’ve likely come across Oregon’s Battle of the Books, or OBOB for short.
This annual reading program began in 2006 to encourage children to read. In teams of typically four to five, students read books from a designated list. They then “battle” against other teams in a question-and-answer style tournament. Teams earn points for correct answers. Winning teams advance and can even compete at a regional level.
At the heart of the OBOB program is a mission to encourage reading and recognize readers, as well as “to broaden reading interests, to increase reading comprehension, promote academic excellence and to promote cooperative learning and teamwork among students.”
I have the answer!
Book titles are chosen for three divisions: third to fifth, sixth to eighth and ninth to twelfth grades. Titles are selected from a variety of genres and at appropriate levels for each division. OBOB aims for “high quality, well-reviewed, age-appropriate titles,” many of which are Newberry and Oregon Reader’s Choice award winners.
The committees selecting the book titles strive for literature representing a variety of styles and viewpoints, with diverse and inclusive selections. OBOB notes that each child is not expected to read all of the books on the year’s list; if a parent has concerns about the content of a particular book, they can have their child opt out of reading it.
The books are usually made available through the child’s school to be checked out one or two at a time.
Local public libraries should also have multiple copies or electronic editions of the current OBOB books.
A recent study found that children who read for pleasure were “associated with fewer mental health problems, including being less likely to have attention problems, fewer symptoms of stress, and fewer behavioral problems.”
Psychological Medicine, 2023. “Early-initiated childhood reading for pleasure: associations with better cognitive performance, mental well-being and brain structure in young adolescence.” Cambridge Press.
The OBOB program is run primarily by volunteers through the Oregon Association of School Libraries and funded partially through the Library Services and Technology Act. Learn more about OBOB, find your region or get information about Book Grants for your school at oregonbattleofthebooks.org.
While the OBOB selections are considered Young Adult or YA in library lingo, that doesn’t mean they’re just for kids. Try reading the books at the same time as your children — there are exceptionally good titles and it will give you and your child something to bond over. It’s the perfect time of year to get cozy with a book. Book lists from previous years are available on the organization’s website.
Just a few of the recent OBOB titles...
Grades 3-5
The Wild Robot by Peter Brown Leonard (My Life as a Cat) by Carlie Sorosiak
Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra
Grades 6-8
Tales of a Seventh-Grade Lizard Boy by Jonathan Hill Daughter of the Deep by Rick Riordan Counting by 7s by Holly Goldberg Sloan
Grades 9-12
The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean Rayne & Delilah’s Midnite Matinee by Jeff Zentner
Carie Lichty
PROFESSION
Educational assistant at Oak Grove Elementary School
COMMUNITY
Albany PARTNER
Aaron Lichty, manager at Pepsi
CHILDREN
Austin, age 17, and Cadence, age 14
PHOTOS BY: MARILLA KAY
MOM’s favorite…
Tell us about your favorite…
…place to find some peace & quiet: Visiting the coast, hearing the waves crash in and putting my toes in the sand. Also soaking in a hot bath or relaxing in the hot tub.
…family games: cribbage, 31 and cornhole
…inspirational quote: Be yourself, everyone else is already taken.
Family comes first.
All families are unique. Tell us about yours. Aaron and I met when we were in our late teens and have been together for 27 years and will be married 20 years this August. We have two children, Austin and Cadence, a beagle named Becker and a cat named Ollie. We live a humble life in North Albany. You’ll find us spending a lot of our time sitting in the stands watching our son play soccer and lacrosse, and in the auditorium watching Cadence perform at her choir concerts. We love supporting all the kids and are avid Oregon State Beaver fans. We enjoy family time, camping and going on road trips.
What is the most surprising thing you have found wedged between the sofa cushions or behind a car seat? My wedding rings, though they weren’t found between a sofa cushion or behind a car seat. Cadence has always had an eye for pretty things, and at age 3 she decided to take my “pretties,” and she put them somewhere…but could not remember where. It took almost a month to find them. I even borrowed a friend’s metal detector to see if she hid them outside. After much searching, they were located on the lower shelf (her level) in our pantry cupboard. From there on out I had to make sure to find a safe and out-of-reach spot from her. In what way are your children like you? How are they different? Both kids are very kind, loving and have a great sense of humor. Austin has taken on my creative gene and outgoing personality. Cadence is more shy, but is very sassy, much like me. They have picked up from my husband and me to be kind, compassionate and willing to help others when needed.
You know you’re a mom when you hear yourself say… “Anyone need to go to the bathroom before we leave?”
What are you enjoying the most about parenting right now? I’m relishing in all the moments. My favorite time is when the kids sit down,
want to chat and/or hang out. Even if I must bribe them from time to time, I just appreciate the human beings they are becoming and enjoy any chance I get to spend with them.
No one works harder than mom.
We know that being a mom is a full-time job. How do you balance (or not) motherhood, activities, work, volunteering, household responsibilities, and life in general? What sometimes falls through the cracks? Life is a whirlwind…I feel like we go-go-go and some days I’m playing catch up in the wee hours of the morning. My hubby knows how important it is for me to be a part of events and how much joy it brings to me to complete a project. Over the years, I have volunteered many hours to help create events for others. These events are extremely time consuming and laborious, but worth the exhaustion and work when you see the joy that it brings to others. Thankfully, I am blessed with the best village. My hubby is my rock, and I am so grateful for all he does for us. He will step in and do the tasks that seem to fall through the cracks, when I am not able to get them accomplished.
Tell us about your work or volunteerism outside of the home. When the kids were in elementary school, I practically lived at the school. I would drop them off, then start helping with various projects for the teachers. I planned all the class parties, chaperoned every field trip, was a runner for the kids for picture/hearing/testing days. I loved it: seeing the kids and being able to offer a hand to the teachers and staff is awesome.
While the kids were in middle school, I worked in the student store, created and ran games at Summer Slam, helped plan the eighth grade promotions and chaperoned and planned the school dances. More recently I’ve helped plan the senior night for my son’s soccer team, and I’m currently a co-team lacrosse mom and helping plan the high school senior all night party. I find myself
QA &
MOMs love local…
We love locally owned businesses, restaurants, places and organizations. Share your favorite…
…coffee spot: The Brim Coffee Co.
…hair salon: Phagans’ Beauty School — those kids need to have someone to practice on, and I’ve been lucky so far.
…restaurant to take the kids: The Barn at Hickory Station
…restaurants for a date night: Blue Agave
…take-out, food truck or quick bite: Hasty Freeze, Shortstops, Rivas Dulce Vida, Los Vecinos and Ohana Kitchen at the Barn
…meetup spot for happy hour: Southpaws
…boutique to find a new shirt or home décor item: Weathered Together Market, Oak Creek Collection
…events in your community: River Rhythms, Storybook Land
always saying, “yes!” to help because I know what it takes to pull off such events. Although it can bring much exhaustion, stress and trials at times, my kids and others will always know I did my best to help make it special for them. What have you learned professionally that has helped you as a mom? While I worked for Winco for 26 years, I learned the importance of patience. You need to have a lot of patience when dealing with disgruntled customers and you need to offer them compassion when they are having a hard time. It helped prepare me to be a more patient and compassionate mother and with the kids I work with at school.
Tell us about a recent achievement you’re proud of, or a personal passion or talent. I’ve been called “the butcher paper queen,” creating numerous school backdrops for musicals, door decorations and bulletin boards. I like to bring cheer to others when I can. It makes me smile to hear the “oohs and awws” when people like what I’ve created.
If mom’s not happy, nobody’s happy.
Tell us about your upbringing. How did it shape the mother you are today? I’ve been blessed with incredibly loving, caring, helpful and
supportive parents who showed the true meaning of being present. As a parent myself, I, too, always tried to be present. After many missed events when I worked evenings for WinCo, I decided I had to make a change, so that’s why I started working at an elementary school. Being on the same schedule as my kids has allowed me to be a part of so many more things.
Which good habit do you wish you started earlier? Probably meal prepping, so there is no guess to what we will eat. I go through phases where I’m on it and get meals lined up, then life happens, and I get busy and lazy.
If you could instantly have one new skill (i.e. foreign language, musical talent, eyes in the back of your head, etc.), what would it be? I would love to teleport my grandma Gladys (GG) back, just so she could offer her wisdom and be a part of our everyday lives. She was a remarkable woman, and I miss her every day. What’s your superpower? The gift of gab! I’m Miss Talks-a-lot and can make a friend anywhere.
Name one thing that is part of your daily routine that you just can’t live without. Texting my kids every morning and wishing them a good day. I love it when they respond with words and not just a thumbs up.
What are your guilty pleasures? I love stouts and porters. I’m also a sucker for rom-coms, thrift shopping and going to garage sales with friends and family.
What is your greatest extravagance?
My children. Yes, they are priceless, but they are very expensive.
Outside of your family members, who/what inspires you to be better? I am inspired by anyone who wants to make you feel welcomed, loved and seen.
Listen to mom.
Is motherhood what you expected? What surprised you the most? Motherhood is truly rewarding. Don’t get me wrong, it’s been exhausting, challenging and frustrating at times, but it’s one of the most wonderful gifts to receive. The love we have for our children is unlike any other love.
What message would you like to share with other moms? Remember to tell it like it is. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Stay true to your convictions. Allow others to help. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. It’s ok to make mistakes, we all do. Just know you are a great mom, and you got this!
We’re celebrating 20 years of MOM Magazine!
FROM OUR ADVERTISERS TO READERS, AND PHOTOGRAPHERS TO DISTRIBUTORS: THANK YOU FOR HELPING RAISE MOM MAGAZINE!
2005 MOM Magazine was born in Corvallis, weighing .5 ounces and 28 pages in length
Our first Mid-Willamette Valley cover MOM: Linda Van Powell
2006 Grows from four issues a year to six
2010 MOM Magazine launches in Eugene. Our first Lane County cover MOM: Suan Coven
2018 MOM Magazine is sold to Oregon Web Press in Albany, Oregon
Cover MOM, Melissa Hedstrom
2023 MOM Magazine is sold to Active Media, Inc. in Aurora, Oregon
2023 2025
Fun Facts
Locally made from the start — proudly printed by Oregon Web Press in Albany.
2020 Survives the Pandemic!
2025 Happy birthday to us! Celebrating 20 years. My, how our baby has grown… 6x
2016 Expands to Salem Our first Salem cover MOM: Kim Leighty
We’re a small, but mighty team: it’s just 4 people (and 3 of us are part time) behind these beautiful magazines in Eugene, Albany/Corvallis and Salem. 4
Longest running expert is Samaritan Health Services, for 20 years!
Clean those clear retainers
If someone in your family uses clear aligners or retainers, they should be cleaning them regularly. Without routine cleaning, they can harbor bacteria that are harmful to your teeth and gums. Plus, they can get a funky odor or even lead to discomfort.
While there are various types of retainers, each with their specific cleaning guidelines, the most popular these days are the clear, non-rigid types. Tips for keeping them clean:
Clean your retainer as soon as you remove it from your mouth, to keep saliva and gunk from hardening. If you wear it during the day, rinse it with lukewarm water after each meal.
Once a week, do a deep clean by mixing lukewarm water with mild dish soap (baking soda or vinegar are options, too, just don’t mix them). Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub away buildup, then rinse. Do not use toothpaste as a cleaner, as it’s too abrasive. Same goes for mouthwash. Also, avoid hot/ boiling water as it could melt your retainer.
Ask us first about using products like denture or retainer cleaners. Depending on the type of retainer you have, we may or may not recommend these. Do not use bleach, alcohol or any other chemicals.
And we wouldn’t be orthodontists if we didn’t remind you to keep wearing your retainers to maintain your beautiful smile.
This
Let
them cook!
Kids can learn so much in the kitchen, from math and vocabulary, to science and fine motor skills. Let them have a go at these fun recipes.
Soda bread
2 cups flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter
1 egg
¾ cup buttermilk
Whisk together all the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Cut in the butter and combine with dry ingredients until crumbly.
In a small bowl, mix egg with the buttermilk until combined, then stir it into the dry mixture until moistened.
Now the fun part for kids: knead the dough on a floured surface for about one minute. Shape it into a round loaf and place on a greased cookie sheet.
Bake at 375 degrees for about 30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean and the crust is golden.
Fried Rice
6 tablespoons butter, divided
4 large eggs, whisked
4 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 small white onions, diced
1 cup frozen peas
6 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper
8 cups cooked and chilled rice
6 green onions, thinly sliced
6 to 8 tablespoons soy sauce, or more to taste
4 teaspoons oyster sauce (optional)
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a large pan over medium-high heat until melted. Add eggs and cook until scrambled, stirring occasionally. Remove egg, and transfer to a separate plate.
Add an additional 1 tablespoon butter to the pan and heat until melted. Add carrots, onion, peas and garlic, then season with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about five minutes or until the onion and carrots are soft.
Increase heat to high, add in the remaining 1 and 1/2 tablespoons of butter, and stir until melted. Immediately add the rice, green onions, soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using), and stir until combined.
A Kid Friendly Snack Recipe
Continue sautéing for an additional three minutes to fry the rice, stirring occasionally. Stir in the eggs. Remove from heat, and stir in the sesame oil until combined. Taste and season with extra soy sauce, if needed. This recipe is courtesy of OSU Kidspirit. See more at kidspirit.oregonstate.edu/recipes.
1 ½ cups frozen or fresh strawberries
½ cup plain yogurt
½ cup milk
½ tsp. grated fresh ginger
2 pinches ground cardamom
1 ½ Tbsp. honey
¼ tsp. rosewater (optional)
Put all the ingredients in a blender. Secure the lid and blend until smooth. Serve over ice, if desired. Reprinted from grocery.coop
Hormones affect your vision It’s not your imagination
The come-and-go nature of vision fluctuations during pregnancy, perimenopause or menopause can have you wondering what’s going on. Estrogen and progesterone levels are at the root, as shifting levels of these hormones impact your eyes.
When estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate due to birth control or pregnancy, it can create eye dryness and irritation. The fluid retention that makes for bloated, puffy feet during pregnancy is the same mechanism behind blurry vision experienced during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. In perimenopause the slow decline of estrogen begins, but the lack of it can contribute to eye dryness. As estrogen reaches low points in menopause, the corneas can stiffen which changes the way light is perceived by the eye. It’s also a point where some patients find their contact lenses are not as comfortable as they once were. Trying out different brands or types can help.
It’s tempting as moms to put your kids first and skip out on your own health, but don’t skip out on your own eye exams! Protect your vision so you can see your children grow and flourish.
Grace Anderson OD eyecareassociates.net
Albany Willetta St SW (541) 926-5848
Albany Custom Eyes (541) 928-2020
(541)
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Why do we fix baby teeth?
Actually, we don’t always have to fix them. There are many times we can leave small areas of decay alone, and let the teeth fall out naturally without repair. Pediatric dentists specialize in recognizing the stages of decay in baby teeth and will recommend the appropriate treatment for your child’s specific needs.
That said, some of these teeth can be in your child’s mouth until they are a teen. If the decay on baby teeth is left untreated, it can lead to a range of problems, from sensitivity to severe pain, to future orthodontic issues or possible damage to the developing permanent teeth. A foundation of trust in your pediatric dentist is key to making the right decisions for your child.
From allowing your child to comfortably eat and chew food, to supporting the development of their speech, those little chompers really do make a difference. The best step to ensuring a happy and healthy dental future is to see your pediatric dentist for a check-up every six months.
Dr. Jay Vaikuntam pediatricdentistoregon.com 155 NW Hickory St # A Albany, OR 97321 (541) 928-1509
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