Northern Virginia May 2026 Edition

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

Virginia Pediatric Group is a highly skilled and experienced team of board-certified providers who serve children and their families. The private pediatric practice has proudly offered comprehensive, family-centered care since 1982.

As specialists in caring for youngsters, the Virginia Pediatric Group team equips and empowers patients, from newborns to young adults, to find optimal physical, emotional, and mental health. Working closely with parents, the providers offer a whole-child approach that includes nutritional, developmental, educational, and psychological expertise and guidance.

8316 Arlington Blvd. Suite #300, Fairfax, VA 22031

Phone: 703-573-2432

Fax: 703-280-9350

Services We Offer

• Integrative Medicine

• Well Child Visits

• After Hours Care

• Lab Tests

• Sick Visits

• Expectant Mothers

• Newborn Care

• ADHD

• Autism

• Nutrition

• Mental Health

• Allergies

• Asthma

• School Physical

• Behavioral Health

• Breastfeeding

• Sports Physical

• Concussion Screening

• Telemedicine

• Vaccines

• Developmental Screening

• Adolescent and Young Adult Care

• Contraceptive Care For Female Teens and Young Adults

131 Eldon Street, Suite #312 Herndon, VA 20170

Phone: 703-573-2432

Fax: 703-280-9350

737 Walker Road, Suite #4 Great Falls, VA 22066

Phone: 703-573-2432

Fax: 703-280-9350

24560 Southpoint Drive Suite #150, Aldie, VA 20105

Phone: 703-573-2432

Fax: 703-280-9350

Be Ready For Spring and Summer With a Confident Smile

By Farzin Ghanavati , DDS Burke Dental

The Benefits Of One-Day Dental Implants

As May arrives and the promise of spring turns into the excitement of summer plans, many people begin thinking about refreshing their appearance and boosting their confidence. From vacations and weddings to outdoor gatherings and photos, your smile is one of the first things people notice. If missing or damaged teeth

have been holding you back, a modern solution can help you reclaim your smile – quickly and effectively – with one-day dental implants.

What Is a One-Day Dental Implant?

A one-day dental implant, also known as an immediate implant, is an advanced technique that allows a tooth to be replaced in a single visit. Unlike traditional implant procedures that can take several months, this approach combines tooth extraction (if needed),

implant placement, and a temporary crown – all in one appointment.

This means you can leave the office the same day with a naturallooking tooth and renewed confidence.

How the Procedure Works

The process begins with a detailed consultation, including digital scans and 3D imaging to evaluate your oral health and bone structure. Once you are determined to be a suitable candidate, the procedure typically includes:

Stronger Teeth, Healthier You

• Careful removal of the damaged tooth (if present)

• Immediate placement of a dental implant into the jawbone

• Placement of a custom temporary crown for aesthetics and function

Over the next few months, the implant integrates with your jawbone in a natural process called osseointegration. After healing, a final permanent crown is placed for long-lasting strength and beauty.

Why Choose One-Day Implants?

Immediate Results: You don’t have to wait months to restore your smile. You’ll see a dramatic improvement right away.

Fewer Visits: By combining multiple steps into one appointment, treatment time is significantly reduced. Preserves Natural Structure: Immediate placement helps maintain bone and gum tissue, preserving your natural facial contours.

Why Patients Choose Burke Dental

At Burke Dental, we believe great dentistry goes beyond healthy teeth — it’s about trust, comfort, and confidence in your care. Here’s why families across Burke, Fairfax, and Springfield, VA choose Dr. Farzin Ghanavati and his team for their dental needs:

Top-Rated Dentist in Burke, VA – Hundreds of 5-star reviews from happy patients reflect our commitment to excellence, honesty, and gentle care.

26+ Years of Advanced Experience – Dr. Ghanavati brings decades of skill in cosmetic, implant, and restorative dentistry — with proven results you can trust.

State-of-the-Art Technology – From 3D digital imaging to laser and Invisalign® systems, we deliver precision, safety, and comfort at every visit.

Personalized, Honest Care – No pressure, no upselling — just clear communication, customized treatment, and genuine concern for your oral health.

Comfortable, Modern Environment – Relax in our clean, high-tech office designed for your comfort and peace of mind.

Natural Appearance: Modern materials and techniques ensure your new tooth blends seamlessly with your existing smile.

Boost in Confidence: You can smile, speak, and interact socially without feeling self-conscious. Are You a Good Candidate?

While one-day implants are highly effective, they are not suitable for everyone. Ideal candidates generally have:

• Good overall health

• Healthy gums

• Adequate bone support

• No active infection in the area

A professional evaluation is essential to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

Spring into Action –Be Ready For Summer

Starting your treatment now is perfect timing. By the time summer arrives, your implant will be well on its way to full integration, allowing you to enjoy all your seasonal activities with confidence. Whether it’s smiling in vacation photos, attending special events, or simply enjoying everyday moments, a complete and healthy smile makes all the difference.

Optical Insight

Keep Your Eyes Young and Healthy

By Jacqueline D. Griffiths, MD

New View Eye Center

Preventive eye care is important to everyone because eye conditions and diseases that can destroy you and your family’s healthy vision can strike at any time in life, from newborn to old age. Read below for suggested guidelines on when you and your family should have your eyes checked. Infants and toddlers should be screened for common eye problems, such as strabismus (crossed eyes) and Amblyopia (lazy eye) during their regular pediatric appointments. Vision testing is recommended for all children starting at around three years of age.

Most children and teenagers have healthy eyes, but they still need to take care of their vision by wearing protective eyewear when playing sports, doing yard work, working with chemicals, or taking part in other activities that could cause an eye injury.

Even young adults and middleaged individuals can be affected by eye problems, so preventive measures should be taken to detect eye diseases early and to protect eye from injury. These individuals should have a complete eye exam at least once between the ages of 20 and 29, at least twice between the ages of 30 and 39 and every two to four years between the ages of 40 and 65.

Seniors over age 65 should have a complete eye exam by their Eye M.D. every one to two years for cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other eye conditions.

The suggested examination guidelines are:

• Ages zero to two: screening during regular pediatric appointments

• Ages three to five: screening every one to two years during regular primary care appointments

• Ages six to 19: schedule examinations as needed

• Ages 20 to 29: one examination

• Ages 30 to 39: two examinations

• Ages 40 to 65: examination every

two to four years

• Ages 65 and over: examination every one to two years

But check with your Eye M.D. to see how often you should have a complete eye exam if any of the following risk factors affect your eyes:

• History of eye injury

• Diabetes

• Family history of eye problems

• African American over age 40

Protecting your eyes from accidents, early detection, and treatment of eye problems are the best ways to keep your healthy vision throughout life. If you and your family are at risk for eye disease or experience any eye problems, visit your Eye M.D. promptly.

Find out what it takes to preserve your vision and prevent common eye problems. How many of these questions about vision can you answer correctly?

1. Which of the following habits can weaken your eyes?

a. Watching television sitting too close to the screen

b. Smoking

c. Reading in dim light

d. Not wearing prescription lenses if you need them

2. Which vitamin(s) should you take to protect your eyes if they’re sensitive to light?

a. B1

b. B2

c. B12

d. All of the above

3. Eating which of the following foods helps prevent and alleviate conjunctivitis?

a. Apples

b. Broccoli

c. Eggs

d. Yogurt

4. Menopause can cause dry eyes.

a. True

b. False

5. Eating which food prevents macular degeneration?

a. Eggs

b. Bran

c. Mushrooms

d. Spinach

6. Which of the following minerals should you take to relieve an eyelid twitch?

a. Copper

b. Iron

c. Magnesium

d. Zinc

7. When is it most important to wear sunglasses?

a. During the summer

b. From 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

c. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

d. During the winter

8. Which of the following drugs makes your eyes more sensitive to sunlight?

a. Antibiotics

b. Aspirin

c. Oral contraceptives

d. All of above

9. Taking high doses of zinc can cause macular degeneration.

a. True

b. False

10. A poorly functioning liver can cause glaucoma.

a. True

b. False

Answers on Page 39

Fast Fact #1:

Your eyes use more oxygen than any other tissue in your body.

Fast Fact #2:

Make Healthy Choices. More than 13 million Americans have age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness. Age, smoking, high blood pressure, and exposure to sunlight increase your risk of developing this disease.

Fast Fact #3:

Rest your eyes. Computer vision syndrome symptoms include sore eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To avoid this syndrome, reduce screen glare and take a five-minute computer break every 20 minutes.

Jacqueline D. Griffiths M.D. earned her undergraduate degree at Yale and her medical degree from the University of Michigan. Her Ophthalmology residency was completed at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Dr. Griffiths has been in private practice since 1994. She started her own practice and laser center, NewView Laser EyeTM in 1999 where she serves as the Medical Director. NewView’s Mission is to provide Excellence in Ophthalmologic services by giving personalized attention to every patient.

Dr. Griffiths is Board Certified and began performing laser vision correction practically from its inception in this country. She has performed thousands of cases and participated with the CRS-USA LASIK trials to get the LASIK procedure approved by the FDA. In addition to offering Custom LASIK and PRK, NewView offers Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery, Multifocal IOLs, annual eye exams, glaucoma and diabetic screening exams, and cosmetic services including Botox, Restylane, Radiesse, Juvederm, and eyelid surgery. NewView Optical offers affordable high quality frames and lenses for the entire family (ages 5 and older).

Dr. Griffiths is the former Ophthalmology Section Chief of Reston Hospital Department of Surgery, the former Chief of Ophthalmology for the Reston Ambulatory Surgical Center in Reston, VA as well as Loudoun Hospital in Leesburg, VA, Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, a member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the Washington National Eye Center and others.

In This Edition…

The articles below are provided by local health professionals for the benefit of the public. Please contact them for advice and services.

5 | Keep Your Eyes Young and Healthy | By Jacqueline Girffiths, MD

CO2 Fractional Laser Skin Rejuvenation | By Craig E. Vigliante, MD, DMD

Why More Adults Over 50 Are Turning To Longevity Therapies | By LaSondra Gray, CMLSO, CLA

| Preserving Radiant Smiles | By April Toyer, DDS, FAAPD

| Bottled Water Vs. Tap Water | By April Toyer, DDS, FAAPD 17 | A Little Spice Is Nice | By Rita D. Wright, DMD 17 | Seeing Clearly Again: Understanding Cataracts and Modern Treatment Options | By Nisha Patel, MD 19 | Supporting Seniors At Home | By Dr. David L. Johnson, Owner 19 | Mandibular

| How Orthodontic Treatment Benefits Adult Patients | By Swathi Reddy, DMD

| Expanding Smiles Naturally: Guiding Growth With the ALF Approach | By Lynda Dean-Duru, DDS

38 | Dental Implants FAQs | By Marvette Thomas, DDS

42 | Foot Pain In Active Aging Adults: Staying Mobile, Comfortable, and Strong | By Robert A.

and information about health professionals is available at www.YourHealthMagazine.net 4 | Be Ready For Spring and Summer With a Confident Smile | By Farzin Ghanavati, DDS

Breiner, DPM

Washington, DC

• Call Today 301-805-6805

Your Health Magazine is on a mission. There are far too many people, insured or not, who do not go to the doctor when they should, and in millions of cases, don’t know who they should go to, or why.

People are encouraged to buy a new house, car, cell phone or big screen TV, and those companies make themselves very visible and their products easily attainable.

Information about, and from, local healthcare providers is not easy to find, and many times those services are difficult to access.

Information and encouragement always lowers fear and trepidation about anything, and this is especially true in healthcare. While general information is available on web-sites, specific information from local providers is almost impossible for people to find. This is one of the key reasons chronic and episodic conditions are not cared for. It is our mission to:

Make A Difference By Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier By Going To the Doctor When They Should.

There is a lot of evidence that the health professionals who participate in Your Health Magazine have helped many people over the years. We at Your Health Magazine salute you!

G. Scott Hunter, Editor-in-Chief

MARYLAND & WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE One Town Center 4201 Northview Drive, Suite 102 Bowie, MD 20716 Office (301) 805-6805 • Fax (301) 805-6808 info@yourhealthmagazine.net

VIRGINIA OFFICE Office (301) 805-6805 info@yourhealthmagazine.net © Your Health Magazine, 2026. The magazine and all of its contents are protected by copyright. For permission to reproduce any materials in this magazine, contact info@yourhealthmagazine.net

The content in Your Health Magazine and provided on yourhealthmagazine. net is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any exercise program, making changes to your health routine, or acting on any health-related information found on the Internet, or anywhere else.

If you would like to find out how you can participate in one of our upcoming editions, please contact the office nearest you. SERVING MARYLAND & VIRGINIA Since 1990 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Gregory Scott Hunter

By Ali Ghatri, DDS Let’s Smile Dental

Staying active and engaged later in life is about more than exercise and nutrition – it also includes maintaining good oral health. For active aging adults, a healthy smile supports not only confidence, but also overall wellness. As we age, dental needs evolve. This makes regular care and preventive strategies more important than ever.

Why Oral Health Matters With Age

The condition of your mouth is closely connected to your overall health. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and inflammation throughout the body. For older adults who prioritize staying active, untreated dental issues can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and even reduced energy levels.

Maintaining strong teeth and healthy gums allows you to enjoy a balanced diet, speak clearly, and stay socially connected, all key components of an active lifestyle.

Common Dental Concerns For Older Adults

Even with excellent habits, aging can bring new challenges. Some of the most common issues include:

• Gum disease (periodontal disease): Often painless in early stages, but can lead to tooth loss if untreated.

• Dry mouth: Frequently caused by medications, reducing saliva that protects against decay.

• Tooth wear and sensitivity: Years of use can thin enamel, making teeth more vulnerable.

• Root decay: As gums recede, exposed roots are more susceptible to cavities.

Recognizing these risks early allows for timely intervention and better long-term outcomes.

The Role Of Preventive Care

Regular dental visits remain essential at every age. Professional cleanings, exams, and early detection can prevent small problems from becoming more serious. Dentists may also recommend more frequent visits depending on individual health conditions or risk factors.

Dentistry and Active Adults Protecting Your Smile For a Healthier Life

At home, daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and possibly using antimicrobial rinses help maintain oral health. For those with dexterity challenges, electric toothbrushes or flossing aids can make routines easier and more effective.

Modern Dentistry Supports Active Lifestyles

Advancements in dental care have made it easier than ever for older adults to maintain or restore their smiles.

From minimally invasive treatments to dental implants and improved dentures, today’s options are designed for comfort, function, and durability.

For active individuals, these solutions can restore the ability to eat a wide range of foods, speak confidently, and participate fully in social and physical activities.

A Holistic Approach To Healthy Aging

Oral health is an important part

of a broader wellness strategy. Staying hydrated, eating a nutrient-rich diet, avoiding tobacco, and managing chronic conditions all contribute to a healthier mouth.

For active aging adults, dentistry is not just about maintaining teeth – it’s about preserving quality of life. With the right care and attention, a healthy smile can support your energy, confidence, and independence for years to come.

Discover a world of comprehensive dental care at Let’s Smile Dental, your trusted destination for superior oral health in Northern Virginia. With nine conveniently located offices, our skilled team of professionals is dedicated to providing a spectrum of specialized services, all under one roof.

At Let’s Smile Dental, our providers share a common mission: delivering the highest quality care to our valued patients. Through seamless collaboration and a patient-centric approach, our doctors ensure a positive experience and ultimate smile satisfaction. Choose Let’s Smile Dental – where your smile is our priority!

VA 703-658-3000

VA 703-719-5828 Fredericksburg, VA 540-785-4494

VA 703-719-5828 Purcellville, VA 540-338-9400 Springfield, VA 703-719-5828 Reston, VA 703-719-5828 New Cosmetic Dentistry of

Senior Care:

Benefits Of Selling Your Family Home

By Jennifer Wong Principal Broker & Owner W Homes, Inc.

Selling your home is a significant life decision, especially if you have lived there for many years and built countless memories. While it can be an emotional process, it is also an opportunity to simplify your

lifestyle and plan for the future. For many seniors, downsizing and moving into a home or community that offers additional support can greatly improve quality of life.

As we age, everyday responsibilities such as home maintenance, yard work, and managing repairs can become more challenging. There often comes a point when transitioning

into a senior living community or a more manageable residence makes sense. These communities are designed to provide convenience, safety, and access to care when needed. Eliminating concerns like property taxes, ongoing upkeep, and physical strain can significantly reduce stress and allow seniors to focus on enjoying their time and maintaining their

independence.

Some homeowners consider renting out their property as an alternative, but this option comes with its own set of responsibilities. Being a landlord requires managing tenants, handling maintenance issues, and addressing unexpected repairs. For many seniors—and their families—this can become an added burden rather than a benefit. Selling the home instead removes these ongoing obligations and prevents the potential strain that property management can place on loved ones.

Another important advantage of selling is the financial flexibility it provides. The proceeds from the sale can offer a substantial lump sum that can be used to fund a move into a senior living community, cover healthcare expenses, or support long-term financial planning. This can bring peace of mind, knowing that resources are available to maintain comfort and care in the years ahead.

If you are considering selling your home during this transition, it is essential to understand your local real estate market. Working with a knowledgeable real estate professional can make the process smoother and more efficient. A local expert can help determine your home’s value, recommend any improvements that may increase its appeal, and develop an effective marketing strategy to attract buyers. They can also guide you through each step of the selling process, answer your questions, and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Ultimately, deciding to sell your home and move into a senior living community is a personal choice that should be made with careful consideration. With the right planning and professional support, the transition can be a positive step toward a more comfortable, secure, and fulfilling next chapter.

CO2 Fractional Laser Skin Rejuvenation A Modern Approach To Radiant Skin

By Craig E. Vigliante, MD VASA Cosmetic Surgery

In today’s world of advanced aesthetics, CO2 fractional laser skin rejuvenation has emerged as one of the most effective treatments for improving skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. Designed to address a wide range of concerns – from fine lines and wrinkles to acne scars and sun damage – this innovative procedure

offers dramatic results with controlled downtime.

CO2 fractional laser technology works by delivering precise beams of light energy into the skin, creating microscopic channels known as “microthermal zones.” These tiny, controlled injuries stimulate the body’s natural healing response, boosting collagen production and encouraging the growth of fresh, healthy skin cells. Because the laser treats only a fraction

of the skin at a time, the surrounding tissue remains intact, promoting faster healing compared to traditional fully ablative lasers.

One of the key benefits of CO2 fractional laser treatment is its versatility. It can effectively target a variety of skin concerns, including uneven pigmentation, enlarged pores, rough texture, and deeper wrinkles. It is also widely used to improve the appearance of surgical scars and acne

scarring, making it a valuable option for individuals seeking smoother, more even skin.

Ready for smoother, brighter, more youthfullooking skin – without surgery? At VASA Cosmetic, our advanced laser skin resurfacing treatments are designed to give your skin a true reset.

Using precise, medically guided laser technology, we gently remove damaged outer layers while stimulating collagen deep within the skin. The result? A smoother texture, more even tone, and a naturally radiant glow.

The procedure itself is typically performed in a clinical setting and may take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the treatment area. A topical anesthetic is usually applied beforehand to ensure patient comfort. During the session, patients may feel a warming or tingling sensation as the laser is applied.

Recovery time varies based on the intensity of the treatment. Mild treatments may involve just a few days of redness and light peeling, while more aggressive sessions can require up to one to two weeks of downtime. During this healing period, it’s essential to follow post-treatment care instructions, including gentle skincare, sun protection, and avoiding harsh products. Results from CO2 fractional laser treatments are both immediate and progressive. While patients often notice an initial improvement in skin tone and texture once the skin begins to heal, the full benefits develop over several weeks to months as collagen production continues. The outcome is smoother, firmer, and more youthfullooking skin.

Schedule

It’s important to note that not everyone is an ideal candidate for this procedure. Individuals with certain skin types or medical conditions may require alternative treatments. A consultation with a qualified provider is essential to determine the best approach based on individual goals and skin concerns.

CO2 fractional laser skin rejuvenation offers a powerful, sciencebacked solution for those looking to restore their skin’s vitality. By combining precision technology with the body’s natural healing processes, it provides long-lasting improvements that go beyond surface-level results – helping patients achieve healthier, more radiant skin with confidence.

Why More Adults Over 50 Are Turning To Recovery and Longevity Therapies

By LaSondra Gray CMLSO, CLA, PTMA, MBA Reflections Image Center & Skin Care Institute

Is This Approach Right For You?

This approach may be a good fit if you:

• Want to improve skin firmness without surgery

• Are noticing changes in energy, recovery, or aging

• Prefer natural, non-invasive solutions

• Want to look refreshed – not overdone

• Are focused on long-term wellness, not quick fixes

What Most Clients Say

“I didn’t want anything drastic – I just wanted to feel like myself again.

More energy, more confidence. This felt natural.”

What Makes This Different

• Focus on collagen and recovery - not just appearance

• Designed for adults 40+ and 50+

• No needles. No downtime.

• Supports how you feel – not just how you look

A More Natural Approach To Aging

Rather than chasing quick fixes, many people are now choosing to support their body through consistent, non-invasive therapies that improve both how they look and how they feel over time.

Next Step

Start with a wellness consultation or trial session to explore what works best for your body.

Preserving Radiant Smiles

The

Importance Of Dental Cleanings For Children

By April Toyer, DDS, FAAPD Elite Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

As parents, we all want to ensure our children’s overall well-being, and good oral health is a crucial component of that. Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of preventative dental care, helping to maintain your child’s beautiful smile and setting them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

The Importance Of Early Dental Visits

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. These early visits not only allow our pediatric dentists at Elite Pediatric Dentistry to monitor your child’s oral development but also provide an opportunity to

educate you, as parents, on proper oral hygiene techniques and establishing good habits from an early age.

Professional Cleanings: A Vital Step In Preventative Care

While regular brushing and flossing at home are essential, professional dental cleanings play a vital role in maintaining your child’s oral health. During these appointments, our skilled dental hygienists use specialized tools

to remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

The Benefits Of Regular Dental Cleanings:

Finally… A Pediatric Dentist That Kids (and Parents) Trust

At Elite Pediatric Dentistry, we make going to the dentist a joy – not a fear. From toddlers to teens, our kid-friendly, anxiety-free care helps every child feel safe, seen, and celebrated.

Led by Dr. April Toyer, a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist with a gift for connecting with kids (even the anxious ones!), we’re here to build lifelong confidence – one smile at a time.

• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Dental hygienists have the expertise and tools to thoroughly clean areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing, eliminating harmful plaque and tartar buildup.

• Early Detection: During dental cleanings, our team can identify and address any potential issues, such as cavities or gum disease, in their earliest stages, preventing them from progressing into more serious problems.

• Fresh Breath: Removing plaque and tartar buildup can help eliminate bad breath, leaving your child’s mouth feeling fresh and clean.

• Stain Removal: Professional cleanings can help remove stubborn stains caused by certain foods, beverages, or medications, restoring your child’s smile to its natural brightness.

A Gentle And Compassionate Approach

It is undestood that some children may feel anxious about dental visits. That’s why a great team will take a gentle and compassionate approach, creating a warm and welcoming environment that puts your child at ease. They will take the time to explain each step of the cleaning process, using age-appropriate language and engaging in friendly conversation to help your child feel comfortable and secure. Their goal is to make dental cleanings a positive experience, fostering a lifelong appreciation for good oral hygiene habits.

Investing In Your Child’s Smile

Regular dental cleanings are an investment in your child’s overall health and well-being. By establishing a positive relationship with our pediatric dental team from an early age, your child will develop healthy habits and a positive attitude towards dental care that will serve them well throughout their lives.

By Hani Thariani, DDS, MMSc TBraces

Why Orthodontic Treatment Is About More Than a Straight Smile

orthodontic correction can improve speech clarity and contribute to better facial balance by guiding jaw alignment into a more natural position. Confidence That Impacts Overall Well-Being

Orthodontic treatment is often associated with cosmetic improvement, but its benefits extend far beyond aesthetics. By correcting the alignment of teeth and jaws, orthodontics plays an important role in supporting oral health, comfort, and overall well-being. With modern treatment options now available for children, teens, and adults alike, orthodontic care has become an increasingly accessible path to better health.

A Healthier Mouth Starts With Proper Alignment

Straight teeth are easier to keep clean. When teeth are crowded or misaligned, plaque and bacteria can collect in areas that are difficult to reach with brushing and flossing. Over time, this increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Orthodontic treatment helps create proper spacing and alignment, making daily oral hygiene more effective and reducing the likelihood of longterm dental problems.

Improved Bite, Comfort, and Function

When the upper and lower teeth do not fit together correctly, chewing can become inefficient and uncomfortable. An improper bite can place extra strain on certain teeth and jaw muscles, potentially leading to jaw pain, headaches, or uneven tooth wear. Orthodontic treatment improves how the teeth come together, allowing the jaw to function more naturally and comfortably.

Protection Against Future Dental Damage

Teeth that stick out or overlap are more vulnerable to injury, chipping, and excessive wear. By repositioning teeth into healthier alignment, orthodontic treatment helps protect them from damage and supports the longevity of the natural teeth.

Speech and Facial Balance Benefits

The alignment of teeth and jaws can influence speech patterns and facial harmony. In some cases,

A confident smile can have a profound effect on mental and emotional health. Many people find that after orthodontic treatment, they smile more freely and feel more comfortable in social and

professional settings. This boost in self-esteem often extends beyond appearance, positively influencing quality of life.

A Long-Term Investment In Health

Orthodontic treatment is not just a short-term cosmetic solution – it is a preventive health measure. By addressing alignment issues early or at any stage of life, patients may reduce the need for more extensive

A Confident Smile That Turns Heads –It’s Finally Within Reach!

dental treatments in the future.

The Takeaway Orthodontic treatment supports more than just a straighter smile. It promotes better oral hygiene, improves comfort and function, and contributes to confidence and overall health. With today’s advanced orthodontic options, achieving a healthier, more balanced smile is easier and more comfortable than ever before.

Your smile is one of the first things people notice – make it unforgettable. Whether you’re straightening your teeth for the first time or perfecting your smile before summer, TBraces Orthodontics makes it simple, affordable, and rewarding.

Led by Dr. Hani Thariani, the only Harvard-trained orthodontist in Arlington and Herndon and a Diamond Plus Invisalign® provider, our team has created confident, radiant smiles for over 25 years.

Now’s your moment to enjoy world-class orthodontic care with significant

– but hurry, this exclusive offer ends soon.

Your Smile & TMD

By Jeffrey L. Brown, DDS Sleep & TMJ Therapy

It is almost impossible to maintain a nice smile when you are hurting, and especially when that pain comes from TMD (Temporomandibular Disorder). When the discs in the jaw joints are out of place, they can and will pinch nerves and blood vessels in the jaw joints. This is a concept that few doctors understand as it was never taught

in school. Such training often requires extensive post-graduate education, and oftentimes that can be very hard to find!

As a patient, you should be aware that there are many ways to treat the TMJ disorder. To figure out which one(s) are right for you, the first step is diagnosing. A proper diagnosis is where it all starts and that means a very good MRI (soft tissue) and CBCT x-ray of the joints. From there, your

course of treatment might include orthotic (non-surgical dental oral appliance treatment), physical therapy, osteopathy, dry needling, acupuncture, massage, and even laser therapy.

At our office, we most frequently use appliance therapy to make space for the displaced discs to return into the socket. Along with your appliances, we oftentimes do massage or laser therapy. This is a specialty treatment. Our massage therapist incorporates the Fotona laser to achieve good energy deep into the tissues to maximize healing. It quite honestly feels “wonderful” according to our patients.

We Are NOT Your Typical Dental Office

When a patient wears an orthotic appliance on their lower teeth, this allows the displaced discs the chance to get back into proper position within the socket. This takes time. Most cases the displacements occurred over the course of years and it often takes a year for those discs to go back into place, if they will at all. In the event that they do not go back where they belong, a minor surgery can be done to put them back into the joints. This is called plication.

Dr. Jeffrey Brown has limited his practice to focus only on TMJ Disorders, Craniofacial Pain Management and Sleep Apnea. By fixing slipped discs in the jaw joints, Dr. Brown can significantly reduce the pain patients experience in the head/neck region and other symptoms associated with jaw joint problems. Sleep & TMJ Therapy may be able to improve the quality of life for you or a loved one – we encourage you to contact us with any questions or concerns.

“Dr. Brown and his staff are absolutely wonderful. I was diagnosed with Dystonia. I could not turn my head and had a ton of pain. My doctors offered no help and no advice besides Meds and Botox. Since having the appliance I have NO pain and I can turn my head. I would highly recommend them to anyone. I feel Dr. Brown and his staff really care about their patients and helping them to get better. They do not just numb the symptoms but fix the problem. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel like the old me again!”

- D. Thomas

“My daughter has been treated by Dr. Stack and Dr. Brown for the last 2 1/2 years, and we are very fortunate to have found them. Prior to that she was being treated by a neurologist at a Children’s hospital. She was on medications for tics and associated muscle pain, OCD/repetitive thoughts, sleeplessness and more (all possibly associated with Tourettes). Drs. Stack and Brown installed spacers to alleviate pressure on nerve bundles in the jaw, and subsequently braces to complete the process. Her symptoms have diminished significantly. She is off medication, her tics have all but disappeared, she can concentrate better in school, and she is once again cheerful and relaxed.”

- Susan

The other appliance that is used is the ALF. This little wire has the ability to open up the palate which makes it easier to breathe. It can also lower a high palatal vault which allows better nasal breathing. When a person breathes through their nose more, this allows for better production of nitric oxide which helps the body to heal better. It also helps level the cranial bones to some extent and thus reduce asymmetry of the skull. This little device really is amazing. Admittedly, it takes years of training to get a handle on it, but it is well worth it.

Ultimately, when a TMD case has healed or improved enough to not need surgery, it is time to finish up so you do not need to wear appliances any longer. This can be accomplished either by orthodontics or prosthodontics. The purpose is to support your jaw joints and the discs in the correct anatomical position. It is important that you understand the mechanism of how this works so choose your provider carefully and do your research! Your smile is worth it.

The Brain–Body Connection

Head, Neck,

Lymphatic Pathways in Relaxation and Wellness

By Linda Wu, Wu Therapeutic Massage and Head Spa

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Please see “Brain–Body,” page 39

By April Toyer, DDS Lifetime Dental Care

Staying well hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your oral and overall health.

Bottled Water Vs. Tap Water

Although bottled water is commonly perceived as being the “cleaner” alternative to tap water, it is missing one vital component – fluoride. Many experts attribute the recent rise in cavities to be linked to the surge of bottle water consumption.

What Are the Benefits Of Tap Water?

Fluoride can slow the rate at which tooth enamel demineralizes and also encourage remineralization of an area that has the early stages (white spots) of a cavity. According to the American

Dental Association, “studies prove water fluoridation continues to be effective in reducing tooth decay by 20-40%, even in an era with widespread availability of fluoride from other sources, such as fluoride toothpaste.

Fluoridation is one public health program that actually saves money. An individual can have a lifetime of fluoridated water for less than the cost of one dental filling.”

Tap water also contains calcium and magnesium. There have been studies that show that communities

that have tap water containing higher levels of calcium and magnesium have lower death rates since they can help protect against heart disturbances.

Is Tap Water Safe?

Although water fluoridation is safe and beneficial for our oral health, over exposure to fluoride can cause dental fluorosis. Fluorosis in most cases is generally mild, but may cause some whitish spots on the permanent teeth.

For infants who are on formula that already contains fluoride, parents should take caution when reconstituting with fluorinated water. Talk to your pediatrician before altering the diet for your infant. Fluoride toothpaste and rinses should also not be consumed, since it contains a dangerous level of fluoride if ingested in large amounts.

If you are on well water or are unsure of the fluoride levels in your community you may consider getting your water tested. If you have concerns about water quality, contact the Service Authority of your county. Chlorine is a product that is added to water during the filtration process that helps get rid of bacteria. Refrigerating your tap water overnight and using a water filtration system, can help remove impurities and give your tap water a crisp clean taste.

If there is no fluoride in your community water please ask your dentist to determine if your child may be in need of a fluoride supplement.

April Toyer, DDS

Dr. Toyer grew up as an “Army brat,” but resided many years in Bowie, Maryland. She attended the University of Virginia and received a degree in Biology and Bioethics in 2003. Dr. Toyer attended dental school at the University of Maryland and took part in the Pediatric Dentistry Clerkship program.

A Little Spice Is Nice

By Rita D. Wright, DMD Wright Smile Center of Woodbridge

The truth is the aging process is not for the weak at heart. It is essential to develop good exercise, diet, and overall wellness at an early age. In our society, we tend to search for a magic pill, lotion, or potion. Everyone hopes to look and feel their best for as long as possible.

I will discuss the benefits of tumeric. This root has become very popular in recent years. It originated in Asia and is a relative of ginger.

Tumeric is manufactured in various forms; as a spice, as a tablet, and a powder. It can be added to various dishes. It may be used in foods such as rice, soups, and meats. It can also

be added to baked goods. In some instances, turmeric may be added to milk or water to make a hot or iced beverage. It can also be taken as a dietary supplement.

The tumeric root is responsible for the following:

• Reduction of inflammation (periodontal disease)

• Reduction of blood pressure (dental anesthesia)

• Reduction of arthritis (TMJ)

• Reduction of anxiety

• Reduction of free radicals (healthy skin)

• Reduction of degenerative eye disease

As with all dietary supplements, it is important to follow the recommended daily allowance to avoid misuse.

The side effects of misuse may include:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea, pain)

• Skin discoloration

• Kidney stones (pain)

• Blood thinning (prolonged bleeding)

• Hypoglycemia (confusion, irri

• Liver damage (hepatotoxicity)

Seeing Clearly Again Understanding Cataracts and Modern Treatment Options

By Nisha Patel, MD NOVA Eye MD

Cataracts are one of the most common – and treatable – causes of vision impairment. They occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, preventing light from focusing clearly on the retina. In a healthy eye, the lens produces sharp images; with a cataract, vision gradually becomes blurred or hazy, often described as looking through a foggy or dirty window.

Cataracts typically develop slowly and painlessly, often going unno-

ticed in early stages. They may affect one or both eyes and are generally classified into three types: nuclear (center of the lens, often age-related), cortical (outer edges, appearing as spoke-like patterns), and posterior subcapsular (back of the lens, often impacting reading vision and causing glare).

While aging is the most common cause, other contributing factors include prolonged UV exposure, diabetes, smoking, alcohol use, eye trauma, prior surgeries, radiation therapy, and family history. Less commonly, congenital cataracts can be present at birth due to genetic or prenatal factors. Symptoms tend to progress gradually and may include:

• Blurry or cloudy vision

• Glare and halos around lights

• Poor night vision, especially while driving

• Faded or yellowed colors

Please see “Seeing Clearly,” page 39

Dr. Afreen Sayeed Services provided

Implants, Implant Crowns, Invisalign, CEREC, Crowns, Root Canals, Cosmetic Dentistry, iTero Digital Scanner, Tooth-Colored Fillings and Extractions.

Laser assisted treatments for bone regeneration and implant procedures.

Reducing chance of root canal by 90% and keeping the tooth nerve alive

Complete disinfection of surgical sites and clearing of jaw infections

Clearing the inflammation and infection of the gums

Obstructive sleep apnea treatment with NightLaser procedure reduces snoring and enhances upper airway soft tissue function.

TMJ joint and muscle inflammation reduction

No need for injections or numbing during the filling process.

Gum disease, Cold sore and ulcer elimination

Laser application reduces dentin sensitivity and disinfects tooth during tooth restoration.

Supporting Seniors At Home

Promoting Independence, Safety, and Quality of Life

As more older adults choose to age in place, supporting seniors at home has become an essential part of maintaining independence and overall well-being. With the right combination of practical adjustments, emotional support, and community resources, seniors can continue to live comfortably and safely in familiar surroundings.

One of the most important aspects of supporting seniors at home is ensuring a safe living environment. Simple modifications – such as installing grab bars in bathrooms, improving lighting, removing tripping hazards, and using non-slip rugs – can significantly reduce the risk of falls. For those with mobility challenges, assistive devices like walkers, stair lifts, and handrails can make daily activities easier and safer.

Health management is another key component. Seniors often manage multiple medications and medical appointments, which can become overwhelming. Family members or caregivers can help by organizing medications, setting reminders, and coordinating healthcare visits. Telehealth services and remote monitoring devices are also increasingly valuable, allowing healthcare

Please see “Seniors At Home,” page 39

Mandibular Advancement Appliances Vs. CPAP Choosing the Right Approach For Better Sleep

By Michael Rogers, DDS Fairlington Dental

Sleep is essential for overall health, yet many people struggle with disrupted breathing at night due to sleep apnea. Two of the most common treatment options are CPAP

therapy and mandibular advancement appliances. While both are designed to improve airflow and support better sleep, they work in very different ways. Understanding these differences can help you make a more informed decision about your care.

What Is CPAP Therapy

CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, uses a machine to deliver a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. This air pressure helps keep the airway open, preventing pauses in breathing that occur with sleep apnea.

CPAP is often considered the standard treatment because of its

Please see “CPAP,” page 38

At Fairlington Dental, we understand the connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. As a result, we look at the whole person to discover the reasons a patient may have gum disease or a bad bite. A number of studies link heart disease and other serious conditions to the presence of periodontal (gum) disease. This research makes it vital that we take a Complete Health approach to your dental care. Dr. Rogers will listen to you, conduct a careful assessment, and carefully explain your proposed customized wellness plan. He will then take the time to answer all of your questions. You become a partner in your oral health goals!

Our team has mastered the techniques of gentle dentistry and is skilled at helping patients with any level of apprehension relax and grow comfortable with visiting the dentist. Anxiety and tension have a variety of sources, so it’s important for us to listen to your concerns as well as your goals and history. Then we address your anxieties and proceed with gentle treatment only when you’re ready. We deliver all of this in an office that is environmentally aware, while you enjoy a variety of spa-like amenities during your visit. One of our greatest joys is helping patients smile again, especially those who may not have seen a dentist in a while. You’ll be amazed at how the quality of life can change! We strive to create a partnership with you that starts the moment you walk through our door.

Tired, Irritable, Lost Your Drive?? Maybe It’s a Hormone Imbalance.

By Erik A. Ward, DC, CSCS, CCSP NOVA Pain & Rehab Center

The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating hormone levels throughout your body. Hormones act as messengers, traveling to various organs and transmitting information between various cells and organs in the body to regulate numerous body functions and maintain overall balance. Hormones have a significant impact on several essential bodily functions, including:

• Metabolism

• Sleep

• Appetite regulation

• Mood

• Sexual function

• Stress levels

Hormone Imbalance In Women

Hormone imbalance in women is

increasingly common, leading to a range of concerning symptoms that can impact physical and mental health. Hormones are chemical messengers produced by various glands and tissues. They are responsible for transmitting instructions through the bloodstream to your organs, skin, muscles, and other tissues to regulate body functions.

There are numerous widespread misconceptions regarding hormone imbalance in women. Some of these misconceptions include the belief that hormonal imbalances and related issues only occur during menopause, the assumption that symptoms are solely attributed to natural changes and

can only be endured, and the notion that available treatment for hormonal imbalance options are hazardous and untested.

Hormone Imbalance In Men

The impact of hormone imbalances in men is significant, yet it’s often underestimated or misunderstood. It’s quite common for you to experience these imbalances as you age. They can lead to a range of symptoms, from subtle to severe, affecting your daily life and possibly posing health risks.

A hormonal imbalance occurs when your glands fail to produce and distribute the appropriate levels of hormones in your bloodstream. While occasional hormonal irregularities are normal, experiencing frequent imbalances can have a significant impact on your overall health.

Bio-Identical Hormone

Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

If you’re experiencing one or more of the hormone imbalance symptoms mentioned above, there are a few ways to fix your hormonal imbalance.

Bio-Identical Hormone replacement

therapy (BHRT) can safely and effectively restore your hormonal balance. It’s crucial to choose a BHRT provider with experience, understanding, and a personalized solution for you.

NOVA Pain & Rehab Center has been providing personalized, alternative treatment services for superior overall wellness. Our customized, integrative treatment plans include thorough testing to determine the root cause of your symptoms, an in-depth analysis of your complete hormone levels, and a complete action plan to bring your body back into balance.

Feel Like Yourself Again… Or Even Better.

The Hidden Hormone Imbalance Affecting Your Energy, Confidence & Relationships

• Fatigue & low energy

• Stubborn weight gain

• Anxiety, mood swings, depression

• Low libido / ED / vaginal dryness

• Hot flashes & night sweats

• Brain fog & poor sleep

Advantages Of Dental Implants Over Dentures and Partials

By E. Richard Hughes, DDS

Part I

During this age of the internet, space travel, medical miracles, GPS, and yes, smart phones, people still suffer with dentures and partial dentures. Other than the materials, the methods to make dentures have not changed since Wellington defeated Napoleon at Waterloo. Complete dentures are not your teeth.

During this age of the internet, space travel, medical miracles, GPS, and yes, smart phones, people still suffer with dentures and partial dentures.

They are a prosthesis made for appearance and very limited function. Complete dentures, at best, have no less than 30% mobility for the upper and the lower is worse and lifts up from the lower jaw by as much as 10 millimeters during eating. Partial dentures function a bit better, but they too move.

This movement acts to abrade teeth, slowly extract teeth and cause an increased rate of dental decay, due to the clasps acting as plaque traps. Both complete dentures and partial dentures destroy supporting bone. As for function, they are like wearing a pair of flip-flops in a foot race. They

are basically for show and not for go.

Dental implants offer a superior solution to the above mentioned problems. The following will compare dental implants to dentures and partial dentures.

Dentures require a training period, implants do not. During the implant insertion appointment, you may receive a temporary bridge that will not come loose. When you get your permanent bridge, you will be able to

eat, laugh, and talk just like normal. Implants will not make your face look sunken in or change the shape of your face. In other words, you will not have the denture look. There is no such thing as an implant look. Many times, implants can improve the appearance over one’s own natural teeth. They can improve the shape, color, gaps and crookedness often looking much better than ever. Denture wearers and those with partially missing teeth

usually have an improvement of their facial appearance, much better than any plastic surgery.

Dental implants usually improve ones speech, because you do not have the movement or slippage that you get with dentures. So you don’t get the lisping, clicking or sucking sounds that you have with dentures.

Save this article, as it leads into part two in your next Your Health Magazine issue.

1. Have You Lost One or More of Your Teeth?

2. Are You Embarrassed by Your Smile or Missing Teeth?

3. Are You Tired of the Daily Hassles of Denture Wear?

4. Do You Have Bone Loss Where Teeth Were Pulled?

5. Do You Have Pain of Discomfort When Chewing?

Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth for Young and Old. Nearly Everyone Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants AND There are Hardly Any Medical Problems and Prevent You from Having Dental Implant Treatments.

Featured Health Professionals

While

Holistic

Recognizing

Cutting-Edge

Experience

Audiologists

TMJ & Sleep Apnea Treatment

Meet Jeffrey L. Brown

Dr. Brown’s practice focuses on TMJ, sleep apnea and orthodontics. This allows Dr. Brown and his team to provide individualized, focused care for patients dealing with these specific issues. Every day, his practice helps patients of all ages with facial development, sleep issues, chronic headaches, migraines, neck pain, movement disorders, and much more. His training also includes multiple disciplines involving the cranial bones in the skull, and the discs in the jaw joints. Through treatment, Dr. Brown is able to reduce these symptoms, align cranial bones, avoid extractions, and greatly reduce the need for traditional braces.

His expertise allows him to identify issues early on which promotes proper facial development using dental appliances. If there is an internal imbalance, whether an adult or child, the body does not develop or function properly. When the cranial bones are lined up correctly, patients are able to function, sleep and generally live better.

With that in mind, the team at Sleep & TMJ Therapy takes a whole-body approach when treatment planning. They work hand in hand with physical therapists and osteopathic doctors for a better success rate. Dr. Brown is devoted to helping patients of all ages live a symptom free life.

Degrees & Certifications

Dr. Brown earned his degree from Georgetown Dental School and completed residencies with Emory University Hospital for Dental Sleep Medicine and the ALF Appliance Therapy Institute.

Outside the Office

When not seeing patients, Dr. Brown is a sought-after speaker. He has lectured all over the world, including D.C., Dubai, Seoul, London, Norway and Toronto. He has also been featured on Channel 9’s Good Morning Washington, several podcasts, and numerous magazines and journals.

Professional Affiliations

Dr. Brown is a diplomate of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, a member of the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Gnathological Orthopedic, Academy of Integrative Pain Management American Dental Association, a Fellow of the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and Legacy Provider for the ALF Interface Academy.

Do you have TMD or Sleep Apnea?

TMD Symptoms: Noise in the jaw joints when opening and closing your mouth, difficulty chewing, limited opening, tender facial muscles, ear ringing, uncomfortable bite, jaw locking, headaches, migraines, dizziness, vision issues as well as pain in the jaw area which can radiate to the ears, head, neck, shoulders, and back.

Sleep Apnea Symptoms: Snoring, waking up gasping for air, feeling tired and irritable in the morning, difficulty controlling weight, concentration problems, morning headaches, episodes of not breathing, waking with a sore throat, forgetfulness and mood changes.

If you believe you may be suffering from TMD or Sleep Apnea, don't wait... Call today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown: 703-821-1103.

Prior to entering private practice, he served a general practice residency at Sepulveda Veteran’s Hospital. Dr. Rogers has invested significant time into ongoing education, seeking to learn emerging dental technologies and techniques in the areas of cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, sleep apnea treatment, orthodontics, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and safe amalgam replacement. His most recent training in airway management has allowed him to offer a cure for sleep apnea using an intraoral device known as the DNA appliance. He is a member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology, American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine, American Academy of Craniofacial Pain, and also of Mercury-Free Dentists. He has served as a guest author for TMJ News & Views, and when that publication ceased, began his own quarterly newsletter. You may have seen one of his television interviews on “A New Me” or the local PBS station, or seen his articles and features in Ladies’ Home Journal, Arlington Magazine, and New Beauty. Dr. Rogers is an active participant in the community as a sponsor for Encore Theater, Little League of Alexandria, Abingdon Elementary, and the local Fairlington Farmer’s Market. He and his wife Terri enjoy spending time with their daughter Megan and her husband Corey traveling around the country and the Caribbean.

Featured Health Professionals

LaSondra Gray, CMLSO, CLA, CMA, MBA

Meet LaSondra Gray

LaSondra Gray, CMLSO, CLA, PT-CCMA, MBA is a recognized expert in advanced aesthetic and wellness technologies, with over 20 years of experience helping clients achieve real, lasting results.

Her career began working alongside some of the world’s most renowned dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and medical professionals, where she developed a deep understanding of skin health, recovery, and non-invasive treatment solutions. Through her work across the United States and internationally, she has trained in the safety and efficacy of advanced technologies used to support both aesthetic and therapeutic outcomes.

Today, LaSondra is known for her ability to combine aesthetic expertise with a wellness-focused approach, helping clients look and feel their best at every stage of life.

Her philosophy centers on supporting the body’s natural processes—focusing on collagen regeneration, recovery, and healthy aging rather than quick fixes. This approach has made her a trusted resource for individuals seeking natural, non-surgical results.

LaSondra continues to be passionate about educating and empowering others to take control of their health, confidence, and longevity—inside and out.

The Fusion of Aesthetics and Wellness at Reflections

With Dr. Rahel Yirga on our team, Reflections Image Center proudly brings together the worlds of aesthetics and wellness. Dr. Yirga, a boardcertified Internal Medicine physician, is passionate about holistic patient care and wellness. Her expertise, combined with LaSondra’s aesthetic artistry, creates a seamless blend of beauty and health, offering clients a comprehensive approach to looking and feeling their best. Together, they are redefining personalized care to help you achieve your ultimate wellness and beauty goals. We take a holistic approach to delivering outstanding results.. INSIDE and OUT!

Marvette Thomas, DDS

Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign® Platinum Provider

Meet Marvette Thomas

Dr. Marv Thomas established the Dental Spa in 2002. She earned an undergraduate degree in Chemical Engineering and later worked as a Nuclear Systems Engineer for three years. Driven towards her passion, she graduated from Howard University College of Dentistry with honors and did an internship at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, New York in Oral Cancer Reconstruction.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Fellowship in Sedation Dentistry, The American Dental Association, The Academy of General Dentistry, The Virginia Dental Association, The Northern Virginia Dental Society, The American Orthodontic Society, The Dental Organization of Conscious Sedation. THE DENTAL SPA

The Dental Spa of Virginia has received several awards over the years and was one of the first Dental Spas worldwide and Dr. Thomas has helped other Dental Spas globally in becoming established. Dr. Thomas created this concept to take the fear out of dentistry and to transform the traditional ideas and perceptions of dentistry into a pleasant experience. The Dental Spa concept was written about on the front page of the Business section of the Washington Post in May 2007 for the unique services that it gives.

The Dental Spa is not only known for its tranquil environment and anti-anxiety atmosphere, but it is a state of the art modernized facility. It is where Feng Sui and technology comes together. When visiting our office, you will be greeted with sights, sounds, smells, taste and the feel of natural elements. But the operation of the facility does include many of the latest technology devices known in dentistry today to diagnose and treat our patients.

It's Never Too Late For a Straight Smile

When you hear the word “orthodontics,” what comes to mind? Probably a young teenager whose teeth are covered by a latticework of metal. There are indeed many orthodontic patients who fit that description. However, there now exists an increasingly popular alternative to traditional metal braces: Invisalign® clear aligners.

• Improved Oral Hygiene

• A Discreet Look

• More Dietary Choices Comfort

Scan this QR Code to instantly discover your new Invisalign smile!

For the month of May only, The Dental Spa is offering $800 OFF your Invisalign treatment. Call 703-580-8288 to learn more!

SCAN THE CODE to instantly discover your new Invisalign® smile

Featured Health Professionals

9625 Surveyor Ct, Suite 120 Manassas, VA 20110

Meet Kelly Wayland Owner

Kelly Wayland is the owner of Wayland Hearing Centers and brings nearly a decade of experience in the hearing care field to her new practice in Manassas. Born and raised in Manassas, Kelly attended Osbourn Park High School, graduating in 2011. She began working at just 14 years old and gained experience in a variety of roles, including barista, food service manager, nanny, dog walker, and pet sitter. Those early jobs helped shape the strong work ethic and caring approach she brings to every patient interaction.

Kelly discovered her true passion in the audiology field, where she began as a Patient Care Coordinator and later advanced to Office Manager. Over the past eight years, she has helped countless people improve their quality of life through better hearing. Her extensive knowledge of hearing aids, hearing technology, and patient care inspired her to take the next step and open her own clinic.

Kelly is currently working toward her Hearing Instrument Specialist license and is committed to providing compassionate, personalized care. Kelly and her team of hearing care professionals believe hearing treatment is about more than technology – it is about building relationships and helping patients reconnect with the people and moments that matter most.

Comprehensive Dentist, Renowned Implantologist (Dental Implant Specialist)

Dr. E. Richard Hughes received his Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Maryland in College Park, MD. He graduated from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, TN with a degree as a Doctor of Dental Surgery. His Post Doctorate Certificate in Oral Implantology is from Howard University of Dentistry in Washington, DC.

Dr. Hughes has been in practice for over three decades. During that time, his extensive training and dedication to patient-centered care in Sterling, VA, and the surrounding communities has earned him recognition as a highly esteemed dentist.

Practice Philosophy

Dr. Hughes is committed to respectful, personalized care. Along with his entire staff, he provides treatment in a comfortable, welcoming environment. He is a great listener, and will take the time to get to know you and your needs. Because of his experience and gentle approach, most patients experience minimal discomfort during treatment. However, Dr. Hughes understands that dental anxiety is a very real obstacle for some patients. For this reason, he offers effective oral sedation and nitrous oxide to help patients achieve total comfort during treatment.

Areas Of Expertise

Restorative & Implant Dentistry (Dental Implants, Bridges & Crowns, Dentures, Full Mouth Reconstruction), General Dentistry (Preventive Care, Periodontal Care, Sleep Apnea, TMJ, Root Canal Therapy, Invisalign® Clear Aligners, Sedation Dentistry), and Cosmetic Dentistry (Teeth Whitening, Veneers, Smile Makeovers).

Credentials & Memberships

• Diplomate, American Board of Oral Implantology/Implant Dentistry (less than 500 worldwide with this designation)

• Honored Fellow & Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry

• Fellow of the American Academy of Prosthodontics

Financing Options!

To read more about dental implants, check out Dr. Hughes’ articles @ www. YourHealthMagazine.net/Richard-Hughes/

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Local Professionals Empowering and Encouraging People To Live Healthier

Why Are They Looking Younger, More Confident… and Getting Noticed Again?

Discover the medically guided treatments that are helping men and women restore their appearance, energy – and their edge.

You’ve felt it.

The subtle changes. Less energy. Fine lines that don’t go away. A drop in confidence – at work, at home, in your relationships. And whether we admit it or not… how we look and feel directly affects how others respond to us.

The good news?

You don’t have to accept it.

Imagine walking into a room and feeling: More confident – More desirable – More in control Because when you look better… people notice. And you feel it.

LIMITED TIME: Book your consultation at our Falls Church location and receive a personalized wellness + aesthetic assessment.

NOVA Eye MD

Nisha R. Patel, MD completed her Ophthalmology Residency at the University at Buffalo’s Ross Eye Institute. During her training, she founded the International Ophthalmology elective program and became the first resident to participate in a medical and surgical mission to Liberia, West Africa. She also received the ARVO Travel Grant for her research on high-intensity ultrasound exposure on ocular tissues conducted at Weill Cornell Medical College.

She went on to pursue a fellowship in cornea and refractive surgery at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, where she gained advanced training in laser vision correction and dry eye management.

Since 2008, Dr. Patel has been in private practice, with two locations in Centreville and Vienna, Virginia. She specializes in refractive surgery, offering a full spectrum of vision correction procedures including laser vision correction, cataract surgery, laser floater treatment, and eyelid rejuvenation.

Dr. Patel serves on the Board of the Northern Virginia Academy of Ophthalmology and the Virginia Museum of Science. She is board-certified and remains committed to delivering advanced, patient-centered eye care.

Featured Health Professionals

Jacqueline D. Griffiths, MD

Meet Jacqueline D. Griffiths

Dr. Griffiths is one of this area's most experienced surgeons and offers stateof-the-art Laser Vision Correction, Cataract Removal, Multifocal Lens Implants, and Comprehensive Ophthalmology. She has helped thousands of patients who struggle with their vision. Her knowledge, compassion, and attention to detail are the reasons she was voted by her peers to be one of this area’s most elite physicians.

Degrees, Training & Certifications

Dr. Griffiths is a Board Certified Ophthalmologist. She received her undergraduate degree from Yale and her medical degree from the University of Michigan. She then completed her Ophthalmology residency at Georgetown University Medical Center.

Professional Memberships & Affiliations

Dr. Griffiths is the immediate past Ophthalmology Section Chief of Reston Hos

A native of Leesburg, VA, Claiborne M. Callahan, MD graduated with distinction from The University of Virginia in 1996. In 2000, she graduated from The University of Virginia School of Medicine. She completed her Ophthalmology Residency at Tulane University in 2004.

Prior to joining NewView Eye Center, Dr. Callahan was in private practice in Virginia, Florida, and Alabama. Her knowledge, experience and patientcentered focus allows her to spend quality time with each patient to diagnose, educate and treat them. She understands that patients have a choice with whom to entrust their eye care needs, and she prides herself on adhering to the highest ethical standards in the practice of medicine.

pital Department of Surgery, the former Chief of Ophthalmology for the Reston Ambulatory Surgical Center in Reston, VA as well as Loudoun Hospital in Leesburg, VA, Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthalmology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, a member of the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, the Washington National Eye Center and others.

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Dr. Callahan has performed thousands of cataract surgeries, as well as laser, glaucoma and eyelid plastic surgeries. She has treated a myriad of eye conditions throughout her career. She is committed to ongoing education and stays current with diagnoses and treatments. She attends several educational and training meetings yearly to remain in the forefront of ophthalmology advancements.

She is a Diplomate of the America Board of Ophthalmology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and others.

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Featured Health Professionals

Haresh Ailani, MD

Haresh Ailani, MD is a board-certified fellowship trained cornea and cataract surgeon specializing in the latest treatments for cataract and refractive surgery. He specializes in refractive/laser cataract surgery with standard and advanced technology intraocular lenses (IOL) and refractive lens exchange.

Jennifer Dao, MD

Jennifer Dao, MD is a board-certified fellowship trained surgeon who specializes in pediatric ophthalmology including ambyopia treatment, myopia management, strabismus and pediatric glaucoma. She performs an adjustable suture technique for adult strabismus.

Leah Fuchs, MD

Leah Fuchs, MD is a board-certified comprehensive ophthalmologist. She specializes in medical ophthalmology for adults, including medical eye exams, disease management, urgent and emergency eye care.

Sumeet Gupta, MD

Sumeet Gupta, MD is a board-certified fellowship trained surgeon specializing in the interventional management and treatment of glaucoma, including lasers, glaucoma and cataract surgery, with or without minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS).

Ifeoma Ude, MD

Ifeoma Ude, MD is a board certified cataract surgeon who specializes in comprehensive medical and surgical ophthalmology, including ophthalmic lasers, disease management, cataract surgery and emergency eye care.

Marissa Albano, MD

Marissa Albano, MD is a board-certified fellowship trained glaucoma specialist and general ophthalmologist. She specializes in the latest glaucoma lasers and surgeries, as well as cataract surgery.

Jessica Van Looveren, MD

Jessica Van Looveren, MD is a boardcertified fellowship trained glaucoma specialist and comprehensive ophthalmologist. She specializes in the management and treatment of glaucoma including lasers, disease management and emergency eye care.

Hampton Khanna, MD

Hampton Khanna, MD is a board certified fellowship trained s u r g e o n with specialized training in pediatric ophthalmology including amblyopia treatment, myopia management and strabismus, She specializes in strabismus surgery for children and adults.

Bethany Karwoski, MD

Bethany Karwoski, MD is a board-certified fellowship trained surgeon with specialized training in pediatric ophthalmology. Her clinical interests include strabismus, amblyopia, nasolacrimal duct obstruction and retinopathy of prematurity.

Rebecca Truong, OD

Rebecca Truong, OD is a board-certified optometrist who specializes in the examination, diagnosis and treatment of vision and eye disorders. She practices medical optometry and collaborates with the physicians in patient care.

Rita D. Wright, DMD

A Great Smile... Done Wright!

Meet Rita D. Wright:

Dr. Wright earned her undergraduate degree in 1990 from Boston College in Biology. In 1994, she completed her graduate studies at Boston University. Her studies continued in Washington, DC at Howard University. There, she completed the Advanced Education Program in General Dentistry in 1996.

Dr. Wright began her dental career in private practice, then ventured into Public and School-Based Health Centers from 19972002. In 2001, she re-entered the private practice arena. After seven years as an associate, Dr. Wright decided to create the WrightSmileCenter of Woodbridge.

Current Memberships include the following:

• American Dental Association

• National Dental Association

• Northern Virginia Dental Society

• Old Dominion Dental Society

Her mission is to motivate patients who seek quality dental treatment in a comfortable, friendly and modern environment. Our focus will be to educate and excite patients about dental health and improve their overall appearance and wellness.

Dr. Wright and her husband, Bernard, are the proud parents of one son. She enjoys cooking, traveling, crafts, singing, and encouraging others.

Padmaja Yalamanchili, DDS

General & Cosmetic Dentistry

Meet Padmaja Yalamanchili

For over 18 years, Padmaja Yalamanchili, DDS, has been serving patients throughout Northern Virginia with her extensive dental expertise, personalized one-on-one care and state-of-the-art dental technology. She and the entire team at her practice Dr. Padmaja Yalamanchili, DDS, PC in Fairfax, VA are committed to helping patients achieve their healthiest, most beautiful smiles. She is wellreputed in the area, and she emphasizes on preventive dentistry.

Dr. Yalamanchili graduated with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the New York University College of Dentistry in Kips Bay, Manhattan. This prestigious New York City institution is the third oldest dental college in the country and is a global leader in toptier dental care and innovation.

After earning her degree, Dr. Yalamanchili committed herself to serving patients throughout Northern Virginia with her clinical expertise and personalized care. She offers each patient her extensive knowledge and takes the time to customize a care plan to their specific oral health needs and smile goals. She serves patients of all ages through this tailored one-on-one approach. In fact, the rapport she builds with each patient leaves many fondly referring to her as “Dr. Y.”

Dr. Yalamanchili is a member of the American Dental Association, Virginia Dental Association, and Northern Virginia Dental Society.

Dr. Yalamanchili is fluent in English, Hindi, and Telugu. When she’s not serving patients, you can find her spending time with her husband and two children, cooking, reading, watching a Bollywood movie, or practicing Bikram yoga.

Featured Health Professionals

Helping Seniors and Families Move Forward With Confidence

Selling a home you have lived in for years is more than a real estate transaction. It is one of life’s most meaningful decisions. At Homes, we walk alongside you every step of the way with patience, honesty, and genuine care for what this moment means to you and your family.

As a certified SRES® team, we specialize in guiding seniors and their loved ones through the transition of selling the family home. We handle every detail so you do not have to, from preparing your home for market and coordinating trusted contractors, to vetting buyers and managing the closing process from start to finish.

We also work closely with adult children and family members, keeping everyone informed and at ease throughout the process. Our goal is simple: to make sure you feel supported, respected, and confident in every decision you make.

Not ready to move just yet? We can help with that too. If staying in your home a little longer is what feels right, we connect you with trusted professionals for accessibility improvements, home maintenance, and the modifications that make daily life safer and more comfortable.

You have taken care of your home for years. Let us take care of you now. Call us today to schedule your free, no-pressure consultation.

House Call Foot Doctor Comes to You!

Meet Gregory Cardinal

Degrees, Training & Certifications: Dr. Cardinal is a Midwest native and finished his undergraduate studies at the University of Minnesota. He pursued his doctoral education at Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in North Chicago, IL and graduated with a dual degree of Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and Master of Science in Healthcare Administration and Management. Dr. Cardinal went on to complete a 3-year medical and surgical Residency with the VA Maryland Healthcare System with a focus in wound care, general podiatry and surgery. Dr. Cardinal is Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Orthopedics.

Special Interests/Services: Podiatrist in Motion is a unique practice whose primary focus is house calls for foot and ankle concerns. Dr. Cardinal will come to you, to your home or office; meaning no waiting rooms, no traffic and no rushed visits. He treats all ages specializing in many general podiatric concerns such as heel pain, medical pedicures, ingrown nails, warts and pediatric podiatry. He performs biomechanical exams and casting for custom orthotics. Dr. Cardinal also offers cutting-edge treatments such as laser therapy for fungal nails and musculoskeletal pain.

Personal Interests & Hobbies: In his free time, Dr. Cardinal enjoys playing tennis, running, spending time with family and friends and playing the guitar.

Practice Philosophy: Podiatrist in Motion’s mission is to bring the foot care clinic to you, in the comfort of your own home, office or wherever you may need care. Private-pay only.

By Swathi Reddy, DMD All Smiles Orthodontics

Many people seek orthodontic treatment for an attractive smile. However, the benefits of orthodontic treat-

How Orthodontic Treatment Benefits Adult Patients

ment go beyond the obvious physical changes of straight teeth.

Malocclusion is the technical term used by orthodontists for crooked, crowded and protruded teeth. Literally the word means “bad bite.” Untreated malocclusions or bad bites can lead to speech problems, uneven tooth wear, chewing and periodontal problems.

A bad bite often distributes pres-

Great Smiles Start Here

9010 Lorton Station Blvd., Suite 260, Lorton, VA 22079 *we offer complimentary consultations*

Specializing in treatments for adults and children. Our office offers a wide range of appliances including traditional braces, clear braces and Invisalign. We are equipped with state of the art technology to ensure our patients receive the best treatment.

Call Today! 703.337.4414 Or Visit AllSmilesBraces.com

sure unevenly across the mouth and puts unhealthy forces on the bones that support the teeth and chewing muscles. If left untreated, years of uneven chewing and grinding in this pattern can lead to problems, such as headaches, TMJ syndrome, and face and neck pain.

Crowded teeth are often difficult to brush and floss, while spacing between teeth leads to food impaction. Both conditions make it harder to keep the teeth clean. Over a period of time these problems can lead to tooth decay, gum diseases, bone loss and possible

loss of teeth.

Orthodontic treatment not only aligns the teeth, but it also ensures proper alignment of both the upper and lower jaws. When both jaws fit together in the right way, they eliminate occlusal trauma, function better and improve the patients’ long-term oral health.

The benefits of orthodontic treatment not only include an attractive smile, but also a healthier mouth and teeth that are more likely to last a lifetime.

By Lynda Dean-Duru, DDS Ashburn Children’s Dentistry

When it comes to your child’s dental development, early intervention can make a lifetime of difference. One of the most innovative tools used by airway-focused dentists and orthodontists is the ALF (Advanced Lightwire Functional) appliance – a gentle, growth-guidance appliance that helps the body achieve natural balance and healthy development.

What the ALF Appliance Does –And What It Isn’t

The ALF is not an expander. Traditional expanders mechanically widen the palate, but the ALF works in harmony with the body’s own growth patterns. It is a growth-guidance appliance designed to facilitate natural development by gently assisting the tongue in moving the bones of the skull, allowing growth to occur the way nature intended.

The ALF acts almost like a “surrogate tongue,” allowing the brain to redirect resources for growth through functional swallowing, nasal breathing, and a nervous-system reset. Because it is so delicate and precise, the ALF requires meticulous training and expertise to use correctly – its effectiveness depends on the practitioner’s deep understanding of oral-facial development and the connection between posture, airway, and overall health.

A Whole-Body Approach To Dental Health

The ALF philosophy views the mouth as part of the body’s larger postural and functional system. By supporting balanced growth, proper tongue position, and healthy airway development, this gentle form of growth guidance can positively influence a child’s overall well-being – from sleep and focus to confidence and comfort.

Children who breathe well, sleep well, and swallow properly often experience improvements not just in their dental health but in behavior, learning, and physical comfort as well.

Early Evaluation Is Key

Although orthodontic guidelines often suggest evaluation by age 7, many airway-focused providers em-

Expanding Smiles Naturally Guiding Growth With the ALF Approach

phasize that for certain growth and airway issues, that may already be too late.

Signs of improper jaw development can appear as early as infancy –even within the first few days of life. Babies and toddlers who show trouble latching, snoring, mouth breathing, restless sleep, difficulty eating solid foods, teeth grinding, frequent

ear infections, or speech issues may already be exhibiting early indicators that the jaws and airway are not developing correctly.

If you notice these signs, it’s important to consult a knowledgeable, airway-focused provider who can evaluate your child’s growth patterns and guide proper jaw and brain development. Early detection and pro-

active, collaborative intervention allow for gentler, holistic treatment and the best long-term outcomes.

Healthy Growth Creates Healthy Smiles – and Healthy Lives.

Ask your pediatric or airwayfocused dentist whether your child might benefit from early evaluation or growth-guidance therapy with the ALF approach.

Behavior at School?

child’s jaw and airway development may be the missing link.

airway-focused approach supports whole-body health and lifelong confidence. Let’s uncover what’s really going on – together.

Considering Neck Lift Surgery?

Reduce Signs of Aging and Treat Sagging Skin!

A neck lift can be performed for men and women of varying ages who are often frustrated by changes of the appearance of their neck and jawline. Depending on your age, a neck lift can be a short one-hour procedure to remove fat or a 3-hour procedure to remove fat, visible neck bands, and excess skin.

Neck Lift Surgery Can:

Remove Excess Skin (Cervicoplasty) • Liposuction to Remove Excess Fat

Remove or Alter Neck Muscles (Platysmaplasty)

Liposuction can be performed alone or with surgical removal of the fat under the chin through a small incision under the chin.

In patients with vertical bands in the neck, a platysmaplasty can be performed to reduce the appearance of the bands.

Sometimes a chin implant is recommended to improve the overall contour and help with excess skin.

Dental Implants FAQs Everything You Need to Know Before Restoring Your Smile

By Marvette Thomas, DDS The Dental Spa

You can’t grow new teeth, but dental implants offer the next best thing if you’ve lost a tooth. A dental implant looks like a tiny screw and replaces the roots of a tooth. During a minor surgical

procedure, your dentist creates a small opening in your jawbone and places the implant inside. Over the course of several months, the implant fuses to the bone, providing a secure foundation for the crown that will be placed on top of it. In some cases, you may receive a temporary crown the same day you receive your implant.

Replace Multiple Teeth – When you have more than one tooth missing, implants provide an ideal replacement mechanism. You don’t even need one implant for every missing tooth. Instead, implant teeth can act as supports for fixed bridgework. For example, if you are missing three teeth in a row, we can place two implants, one on either side of the gap, and a crown in between that has no implant

underneath. That way, you won’t need to use any of your remaining natural teeth as bridge supports, which could weaken them and make them more susceptible to decay.

Replace All Teeth Permanently – Implants can support an entire arch of upper or lower replacement teeth that are fixed into the mouth and are never removed. Sometimes the new teeth can be supported by as few as four implants. It’s comparable to the structure of a table, which only needs four legs to hold it up. In cases where jawbone density and volume have deteriorated, five or six implants might be needed to support a row of 10-12 teeth. Dental implant replacement teeth protect your jawbone, won’t slip, and should last a lifetime.

CPAP

Aren’t Implants Expensive? –

The initial costs of dental implants may seem high when compared to the cost of bridges and dentures, but it’s important to consider the lifetime costs of each tooth replacement option. With proper care, your implant will last your entire life, while bridges and dentures may need to be replaced several times.

Dental implants offer several benefits that other replacement options don’t, including:

No Jawbone Loss – Your teeth roots constantly stimulate your jawbone and keep it strong. When you lose a tooth, the bone underneath begins to recede. Since dental implants take the place of your roots, you don’t have to worry about jawbone loss.

effectiveness in reducing breathing interruptions. However, some patients find it difficult to tolerate wearing a mask or sleeping with a machine.

What Are Mandibular Advancement Appliances

Mandibular advancement appliances are custom dental devices worn in the mouth during sleep. They work by gently moving the lower jaw forward, which helps keep the airway open and reduces obstruction.

By repositioning the jaw and tongue, these appliances create more space in the airway, allowing for improved breathing throughout the night. They are commonly recommended for mild to moderate sleep apnea or for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

Comparing Effectiveness and Comfort

Both CPAP and mandibular advancement appliances are effective, but they offer different advantages.

CPAP is highly effective at keeping the airway open and is often recommended for more severe cases of sleep apnea.

Mandibular advancement appliances, while sometimes slightly less effective in clinical measurements, are often easier to wear and more comfortable for many patients. Because of this, patients are more likely to use them consistently, which plays an important role in overall treatment success.

Which Option Is Right For You

The best treatment depends on your specific needs, the severity of your condition, and how well you tolerate each option. Some patients benefit most from CPAP, while others achieve excellent results with a custom oral appliance.

If CPAP feels uncomfortable or difficult to maintain, a mandibular advancement appliance may provide a more manageable and consistent solution. On the other hand, patients with more advanced sleep apnea may require CPAP to achieve optimal results.

Sleep Apnea Care

Most dentists take a personalized approach to sleep apnea treatment. Their goal is to find a solution that not only improves your breathing but also fits comfortably into your daily life.

For many patients, mandibular advancement appliances offer an effective and convenient alternative to CPAP. These custom devices are designed specifically for your mouth, ensuring a comfortable fit while supporting proper airway function.

By understanding your symptoms, lifestyle, and overall health, we can guide you toward the treatment that helps you sleep better, feel more rested, and protect your long term health.

Better sleep starts with the right solution. With the right guidance and care, you can find an approach that works for you and supports lasting wellness.

eye S young

1. B. How close you sit to the television, low light reading, and not wearing your glasses won’t weaken your vision, reports Prevent Blindness America, a nonprofit eye health group in Schaumburg, IL. But studies show that breathing cigarette smoke can indirectly damage your eyes.

2. D. B vitamins reduce your light sensitivity. Take 25 to 50 mg of B1, 25 to 100 mg of B2 and 1000 to 2000 mcg of B12 daily.

3. D. The healthy bacteria L. acidophilus in yogurt combats the bacteria that causes conjunctivitis. Eat 1 1/2 cups of yogurt with active cultures daily.

4. A. Women’s tears contain high levels of the hormone prolactin, which decline after menopause, resulting in dry eyes. To help reverse this problem, be sure to get enough potassium (500 mg daily), a mineral that metabolizes fluid. Also, take vitamin B complex (50 mg daily). B vitamins, especially folic acid and B6, are crucial for tear production.

5. D. Spinach contains lutein, a plant pigment that prevents macular degeneration. Each day, eat four to eight ounces of cooked Spinach, or take

two to six mg of lutein in capsule form.

6. C. Muscle spasms trigger twitches in your eyelids. For relief, take up to 400 mg of magnesium (a known muscle relaxant) twice daily. If a twitch persists, also take 50 mg of vitamin B6 daily.

7. C. It’s crucial to wear sunglasses between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., even on cloudy or winter days. Look for ones that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.

8. D. Antibiotics, aspirin, and oral contraceptives make your eyes sensitive to light. Wear sunglasses if your medication’s label includes a photosensitization warning.

9. B. Taking the mineral zinc doesn’t cause macular degeneration. In fact, a recent study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology reported that high doses of zinc (80 mg daily), taken in addition to vitamin C (500 mg), vitamin E (400 IU), and beta carotene (15 mg), slow its progression.

10. A. A qi, or life energy, deficiency in the liver can cause glaucoma, according to traditional Chinese medicine. The Chinese herbal formula hsaio yao wan improves liver energy.

SeniorS At Home

providers to stay connected without requiring frequent travel.

Equally important is maintaining proper nutrition. Preparing balanced meals can become difficult due to physical limitations or lack of motivation. Meal delivery services, grocery assistance, or shared meal programs can ensure seniors receive adequate nutrition while also providing social interaction.

Emotional well-being should not be overlooked. Social isolation is a common concern among seniors living at home and can negatively impact both mental and physical health. Encouraging regular contact with family and friends, participation in community activities, or even virtual social engagement can help combat loneliness. Companion care services can also provide meaningful interaction and support.

From PAge 19

Technology can play a powerful role in supporting seniors. Devices such as medical alert systems, smart home assistants, and video calling platforms offer both safety and connection. These tools can provide peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.

Finally, caregivers themselves need support. Whether care is provided by family members or professionals, it can be physically and emotionally demanding. Access to respite care, support groups, and educational resources can help caregivers maintain their own well-being while providing quality care.

Supporting seniors at home is about more than meeting basic needs – it’s about preserving dignity, independence, and a sense of purpose. With thoughtful planning and the right resources, aging at home can be a safe, fulfilling, and empowering experience.

The study, titled “Increased CSF drainage by non-invasive manipulation of cervical lymphatics,” found that gentle mechanical stimulation of the skin in these areas increased CSF drainage in laboratory models. While this research is still developing, it contributes to a growing understanding of how the brain interacts with the body’s lymphatic system.

This discovery relates to the glymphatic system, the brain’s natural wasteclearance network. Through this system, CSF helps remove metabolic by-products that accumulate during normal brain activity. Substances such as betaamyloid and tau proteins – often studied in connection with neurodegenerative conditions – are part of this process. Importantly, current research does not suggest that external therapies can prevent or treat neurological diseases, but it does highlight the anatomical relationship between the brain and lymphatic circulation in the head and neck.

In everyday life, the scalp, jaw, and neck are common areas where people hold tension due to stress, posture, and prolonged screen use. These regions are also closely linked to lymphatic pathways. Gentle, rhythmic stimulation of the skin and underlying tissues can encourage relaxation, reduce muscle tightness, and shift the body toward a parasympathetic

state – the mode associated with rest and recovery.

Scientific studies have shown that many restorative processes in the brain occur during periods of deep relaxation and sleep. During these states, CSF circulation becomes more active, supporting the brain’s natural maintenance functions. This connection between relaxation and fluid movement highlights the importance of rest in overall well-being.

Some individuals incorporate regular bodywork or relaxation practices into their routines as part of a broader approach to health. While personal experiences vary, many report improved sleep, reduced stress, and a sense of mental clarity following sessions that focus on the head, neck, and body.

Head- and neck-focused therapies are considered wellness practices rather than medical treatments. They are not intended to diagnose or treat disease. However, ongoing research into CSF circulation and the glymphatic system continues to expand understanding of how interconnected the brain and body truly are.

As science evolves, these findings reinforce a simple concept: supporting relaxation and reducing tension may play a meaningful role in maintaining overall balance and well-being.

Seeing CleA rly

• Double vision in one eye

• Frequent changes in glasses or contact lens prescriptions

Sudden vision changes, flashes of light, or eye pain should be evaluated immediately, as these may indicate more serious conditions.

There are no medications or eye drops proven to reverse cataracts. In early stages, stronger glasses, improved lighting, and UV-protective sunglasses may help manage symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and maintaining good blood sugar control can also slow progression.

When vision impairment begins to interfere with daily life, surgery becomes the most effective solution. The gold standard procedure, phacoemulsification, uses ultrasound to break up

From PAge

17

and remove the cloudy lens, replacing it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This quick, outpatient procedure typically takes 10–20 minutes and has a success rate exceeding 95%. Advanced options, such as laserassisted cataract surgery and premium IOLs, can further enhance outcomes by correcting astigmatism and improving vision at multiple distances – sometimes reducing the need for glasses altogether. Recovery is usually rapid, with many patients noticing improved vision within 24 hours and full stabilization in a few weeks. With early detection and timely treatment, cataract surgery can dramatically restore clarity – often allowing patients to see the world vividly again.

HEALTH DIRECTORY

ACUPUNCTURE

Wholelife Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture, 301-5269898, 416 Hungerford Dr., Rockville www.WholelifeHerb.com

BEAUTY & SKIN

CARE

Healthydermis 571-502-0202 www.MyHealthydermis.com. Locations in Oakton and Gainesville, VA.

COSMETIC SURGERY

Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute. George John Bitar, MD, 703-206-0506 (VA, DC, MD)

COUNSELING

Loudoun Counseling & Coaching, LLC, 21155 Whitfield Place, Suite #202, Sterling, VA. 571-375-0668, www. LoudounCounselingCoaching.com

DENTAL CARE

Richard Hughes, DDS, 703444-1152, 46440 Benedict Drive Suite 201 Sterling, VA. www.SterlingImplantDentist. com

Dental Dynamic Wellness, 703-775-0002, 20755 Williamsport Place, Suite #300, Ashburn, VA 20147. For more info please visit our website today at www.DynamicDentalWellness.com.

DENTAL CARE

Karl A Smith, DDS, 2550 N. Van Dorn Street, Suite #128 Alexandria, VA. Call 703-894-4867. Visit www. DrKarlSmith.com

Lifetime Dental Care, April Toyer, DDS, 14573 Potomac Mills Road, Woodbridge, VA 22192. 703-499-9779 www.LifetimeDentalCareVA. com

Let’s Smile Dental – Fairfax, VA

703-719-5828 – Fredericksburg, VA 540-7854494 – Herndon, VA 703-719-5828 – Faifax

Cosmetic Dentistry 703968-4300 – Alexandria, VA 703-658-3000 – Reston, VA 703-719-5828 – Centreville, VA 703-719-5828 – Purcellville, VA 540-338-9400 – Springfield, VA 703-719-5828 – LetsSmile. com

Samfar Dentistry – 11213 Lee Highway, Suite A, Fairfax, VA 22030 – 703-5914111 – SamfarfamilyDentistry.com

Ike V. Lans, DDS – 44110 Ashburn Shopping Plaza, Suite #166, Ashburn, VA 20147 – 703-729-1400 –LansFamilyDentistry.com

DENTAL CARE

Smile Wonders – 11790 Sunrise Valley Drive, Suite #105, Reston, VA 20191 – 571-350-3663 –www.SmileWonders.com.

The Dental Spa – 12351 Dillingham Square Woodbridge, VA 22192 –703-580-8288 – www.TheDentalSpaOfVirginia.com

HAIR RESTORATION

Bravadas Wig & Hair Restoration – 10560 Main Street, Penthouse #12, Fairfax, VA 22030 – 703-352-4247 –www.bravadas.com

HYPERBARIC & WOUND CARE

Holistic Family Health - Thermal Imaging, Herndon, VA. 703-635-6324 For More information visit www.fhtid.com

LAW OFFICE

Samakow Law – Paul Samakow – 833-MY-BURNS – www.nationalburnattorney. com

NEUROLOGY

Loudoun Neurology Associates, PC – 703-729-1900 –19420 Golf Vista Plaza, Suite #340, Leesburg, VA 20176 –www.loudounneuro.com

Order Information: 3 line listing $30.00 for 6 months, $5.00 for each additional line. 10 line listing for 6 months is $65.00. (Each line approximately 3-4 words)

To Order: Include you NAME, ADDRESS, PHONE, EMAIL AND WHAT HEADING YOU WISH TO BE LISTED UNDER, AND ANY SPECIAL OFFER OR TEXT TO INCLUDE. We will prepare a proof and email to you for approval.

Email your information to: info@yourhealthmagazine.net or Fax to: (301) 805-6808. Call (703) 288-6805 for assistance.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA EDITION

MARYLAND/WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE

4201 Northview Drive, Suite #401, Bowie, MD 20716

phone: (301) 805-6805 • fax: (301) 805-6808 • email: Info@YourHealthMagazine.net VIRGINIA OFFICE phone: (703) 288-3130 • fax: (703) 288-3174 • email: Publish@YourHealthMagazine.net

OPEN MRI

Washington Open MRI, Inc. – 866-674-2727 – WashingtonOpenMRI.com

OPHTHALMOLOGY

NewView Laser Eye Center, Jacqueline D. Griffiths, MD. Reston 703-8349777 or 800-294-1001 For more information visit us at www.NewViewEye.com

ORTHODONTICS

All Smiles Orthodontics. 9010 Lorton Station Bouleard, Suite #260, Lorton, VA 22079. www.AllSmilesBraces.com. For nore information call us at 703-337-4414

PLASTIC SURGERY

Bluemont Plastic Surgery –8316 Arlington Boulevard, Suite #630, Faifax, VA 22031 – 703-596-1660 – www.bluemontmd.com.

SENIORS

Chevy Chase Home Care. Help at time you need it most. Any Ages. Any situations. Any shifts. MD, DC, VA. 202-374-1240 www. CHCHHomecare.com

SLEEP & TMJ THERAPY

Sleep & TMJ Therapy – 2841 Hartland Rd., #301, Falls Church, VA 22043 – www. Sleepandtmjtherapy.com –703-821-1103.

in Northern Virginia

By Robert A. Breiner, DPM Metro Foot Center

Foot Pain In Active Aging Adults Staying Mobile, Comfortable,

and Strong

Foot pain is a common concern among active aging adults, and it can significantly impact mobility, balance, and overall quality of life.

Whether you enjoy walking, golfing, traveling, or participating in fitness classes, healthy feet are essential for maintaining an active lifestyle. Understanding the causes of foot pain –and how to manage it – can help you stay comfortable and on the move.

As we age, the structures of the feet naturally change. The fat pads that cushion the soles may thin, ligaments can lose elasticity, and joints

often become stiffer due to years of use. These changes can lead to common conditions such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, bunions, hammertoes, and tendonitis. In addition, long-term wear and tear, previous injuries, improper footwear, or underlying medical conditions like diabetes and poor circulation can contribute to ongoing discomfort.

One of the most frequent causes

We travel to nursing homes and handicap group homes and specialize in geriatric foot

We offer personalized and caring attention to all our patients, so make sure to pay us a visit if you need any help with foot problems, discomfort, diabetic foot problems or pain.

From the moment you step into our practice, you will be greeted by a friendly and welcoming staff who make sure your appointments are on time and well organized for your convenience. We truly care about your wellbeing, which is why we make sure to listen to you and take a full patient’s history before approaching any course of treatment or diagnostic. Our feet are what keeps us going steady through life, and any issue with them can bring about a lot of pain and discomfort. We ensure your recovery and recuperation is done smoothly!

CONDITIONS TREATED

• Foot Injuries

• Foot Sprain

• Hammer Toe

• Heel Pain

Deformities

• Foot Fracture

Warts

• Heel Spur

of foot pain in active adults is plantar fasciitis, which involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition typically causes sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Arthritis is another common issue, often leading to stiffness, swelling, and reduced flexibility in the foot and ankle joints. Structural changes such as flat feet or high arches can also affect how weight is distributed, increasing strain on certain areas of the foot.

Footwear plays a critical role in both the development and prevention of foot pain. Shoes that lack proper support, cushioning, or fit can worsen existing problems or create new ones. Active aging adults should choose shoes with strong arch support, adequate cushioning, and a wide toe box to reduce pressure on sensitive areas. Replacing worn-out shoes regularly is also important. In many cases, custom orthotics or high-quality overthe-counter inserts can help improve alignment, relieve pressure, and enhance overall comfort.

Maintaining foot strength and flexibility is equally important for preventing pain and injury. Simple daily exercises – such as stretching the calves and Achilles tendon, rolling the foot over a tennis ball, or picking up small objects with the toes – can improve circulation, increase flexibility, and reduce stiffness. Lowimpact activities like swimming, cycling, and yoga can also help keep joints mobile without placing excessive stress on the feet.

It’s important not to ignore persistent or worsening foot pain. Early evaluation by a podiatrist or healthcare provider can prevent minor issues from progressing into more serious conditions. Treatment options may include physical therapy, orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or, in some cases, minimally invasive procedures.

Proper foot care is especially critical for individuals with diabetes or circulation issues, as they may be at higher risk for complications such as infections or ulcers.

Foot pain doesn’t have to slow you down. With supportive footwear, regular exercise, and proactive care, active aging adults can continue to enjoy the activities they love – comfortably, safely, and confidently.

–

–

– State-of-the-Art Equipment

– Laser Periodontic Therapy

– Affordable Gum Treatment

– Insurance Accepted & Filed

– Ultra-Sterile Environment

– No Referral Needed

– Comfortable Sedation Dentistry

Our patients mean the world to us, and many have trusted Dr. Smith for decades. Our team is always fully committed to making every visit comfortable, gentle, and pain-free. Our goal is to provide exceptional periodontal and implant care that has been the hallmark of Dr. Smith’s practice for many years.

You deserve the very best! Call today to secure your first visit on your journey to total health, wellness, and aging beautifully.