Happy President's Day!

Many of us get a day off of work to celebrate our nation's leaders today, which is also the birthday of two of our founding fathers: George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.  Today we reflect on all of our former leaders, but here's some fun trivia you may not already know!  

These dentures are in the collection at Mount Vernon – the only remaining full-set in existence.

Washington was infamous for his poor dental hygiene, and myth has it that his dentures were made of wood!   Documentation suggests that Washington's false teeth were really made of a pretty mind boggling combination: 

"Throughout his life Washington employed numerous full and partial dentures that were constructed of materials including bone, hippopotamus ivory, human teeth, brass screws, lead, and gold metal wire."

Can you believe it??  It's truly amazing how much dental science has improved!  We can only imagine how difficult it was to keep teeth clean and healthy using toothbrushes made of hogs bristles!

Photo of one of George Washington’s toothbrushes (Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association)

Let's celebrate the legends of our country today.  Happy President's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day!

It's that time of year again... Time to spread love with flowers, acts of kindness, and special gifts for your special someone.  But don't forget to show your teeth some love after feasting on that box of chocolate sweets!  Here are some punny cards we had to share.  You can even download them here to print and share!  We love a good pun.  Have a great day with your loved ones everyone!

Join the Great American Smokeout!

Get ready to kick the habit, and become victorious over tobacco!  The American Cancer Society sets aside the third Thursday of each November to encourage smokers to go the distance, and to finally give up smoking.

About 42 million Americans still smoke cigarettes, and tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of disease and premature death in the United States. Specifically, tobacco use increases your risk of oral cancers, as well as additional dental health concerns. Smoking, and using tobacco products, can cause bad breath, tooth discoloration, gum disease, dry mouth, increased plaque build-up, bone and/or tooth loss, as well as procedural complications.

So if you can quit for one day, you've made an important step towards a healthier lifestyle... Today's the day that quitters win.  Join the Great American Smokeout!

If you're a smoker, or you are concerned about how tobacco use has affected your oral health, schedule a visit to our office to let us take a look.  Let's kick the habit, and improve your dental health together!

Introducing Valley Creek Dental Care

Dear Valued Patient and Friend,

This letter is to inform you of exciting changes taking place at our dental practice. As many of you know, my wife Lara and I have recently added twins to our family.  As our family has grown, we are taking the opportunity to also grow our practice, so that I will have more time with my family.  I am pleased to announce the addition of another full time dentist in our office, Dr. Matt Parker, who will be assuming the day-to-day management and operations of our office.  You will be happy to know that my wonderful staff will continue to be here with Dr. Parker, and they have given him their stamp of approval!

I selected Dr. Parker to assume this practice role based on his experience, enthusiasm and values.  We share a very similar dental philosophy and approach to patient treatment.  I was introduced to Dr. Parker earlier this year and am thrilled for him to assume a lead role in our practice.  He has my full endorsement, and that of my loyal staff.  Dr. Parker brings a great skill set of the latest techniques in dentistry. 

Dr. Parker is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana and moved to Dallas after receiving his DDS degree from the LSU School of Dentistry in New Orleans.  He has been practicing dentistry in a private practice in Lewisville for the past 3 years.  Dr. Parker and his wife Julia are excited to become part of the McKinney community, and I look forward to introducing you on your next visit!

With these exciting changes taking place, our practice will now be called Valley Creek Dental Care.  With this new brand, Dr. Parker and I join together to provide you with comprehensive, complete care dentistry.  We are committed to continuing our legacy as McKinney's premier dental provider.

Best Regards,

M. Todd Whitfield, DDS