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Braces vs. Invisalign: How Do I Decide on the Right Fit for Me

Orthodontic procedures celebrate a longstanding and reputable namesake within the world of dentistry. Both braces and Invisalign have successfully transformed countless lives by elevating both the aesthetic and function of every smile they embrace.

Considering such a life-changing procedure is often met with an array of questions and concerns, especially when deciding which orthodontic method would serve as the best fit for you. 

Ultimately, it’s best to receive a professional consultation beforehand. This will allow a dental professional to gain key insights into your unique situation and recommended the appropriate orthodontic method to reshape your smile.

Side by Side Comparisons     DentistWhen considering between braces and Invisalign, the focus is placed on a handful of key circumstances unique to each option. To ensure you adopt the right choice for you, it may prove helpful to consider some of these core topics and relate them directly to your oral anatomy and lifestyle!

Appearances

The most common backlash braces receive are regarding their physical appearance. Typically metal or silver in colour, the steel brackets find a home on top of your teeth producing a bold appearance for all to see. There are various colour options for additional costs, with some patients opting into the clear white hue so they better camouflage into the teeth.

In stark contrast stands Invisalign. Consisting of removable and clear plastic aligners which embrace your teeth. The product is praised for its stealth, being nearly invisible to unsuspecting eyes.        Treatment Time

The average lifespan of the braces process stands at around two years. This is completely dependent on the situation of the patient, meaning it could be quicker or take longer. Moreover, braces are a fixed solution; meaning they cannot be removed and are permanently fused to your teeth for the duration of the treatment.

Invisalign is often seen as a quicker alternative, on average completing its course between six to eighteen months- again depending on the patient. Best of all, Invisalign is completely removable! Offering flexibility and certain freedoms to those who adopt it. The aligners are designed to be worn between 20 to 22 hours a day.

Cost

On average, the braces cost anywhere between $1,800 to $5,000. The severity of how much shifting your teeth require is the major influencer on cost. Most dental insurance plans cover, in some part, a certain amount of the payment.

Due to its modern edge, Invisalign is on average much pricier. The usual treatment boasts a price tag of about $5,000. Again, insurance plans usually cover some extent of dental alignment procedures– so always inquire with them before making any commitments. 

Maintenance 

Braces, being fused onto your teeth, become an integral part of your oral anatomy. Meaning all oral health habits will have to take their presence into consideration. To upkeep their integrity, it’s mandatory to brush twice a day thoroughly, especially after meals, and floss daily! Ensuring the wires and brackets are spotless.    Invisalign requires an elevated sense of responsibility. Since the product is completely removable, it requires its own upkeep alongside your regular oral care habits. This includes following the instructions of dental professionals, adopting the Invisalign cleaning system, and brushing or rinsing trays in lukewarm water. 

Checkups

Braces require checkups about once a month. Granting dental professionals the ability to track your progress accordingly, ensuring any tweaks or adjustments may be made to continue to steer your teeth into the desired formation. 

Invisalign is a little less demanding in terms of required visits to your local dental office. Since new plastic aligners are crafted in advance to match alongside the shifting progress of your teeth, you will have to attend scheduled checkups every four to six weeks.                            

There May Be More 

There are a few other factors that contribute to your optimal orthodontic method beyond the ones listed above. It’s also commonplace to find Invisalign associated with more mature patients. 

Invisalign’s fate lies, in large part, within the patient’s hands. Its guaranteed success is reliant on the patient’s individual responsibility, as the process is so flexible.  Pre-teens in need of teeth realignment aren’t usually capable of reliably handling these demanding circumstances, and are best suited for braces instead.

For more information, contact a dental professional or schedule a consultation to get a better understanding of what method can effectively improve your smile!

Plaque to Calculus

Brushing Teeth

The oral anatomy is prone to the presence and buildup of bacteria. Failing to combat this biological process is the most common harbinger of cavities, gum disease, tooth decay, and eventual tooth loss. Of course, the best strategy to eradicate this frequent buildup is through effective and frequent oral care habits. 

Many patients remain unaware of what plaque and calculus are and how dangerous they may be left to their own devices. Let’s go over their distinctions, how to prevent their formation, and why it’s so crucial to your oral health to do so!

What is Plaque 

Plaque is the gummy and transparent film which forms along your teeth and gumline. This substance consists of natural bacteria forming with proteins and food particles present in the mouth. Allowing plaque to rest and spread along your teeth and gums empower its bacteria to attack your teeth’s enamel. This can and will result in cavities; while even comprising your overall tooth structure and contributing to gum disease if left unchecked. 

Removing Plaque 

It’s quite simple, plaque can generally be removed by regularly and extensively brushing and flossing your teeth. Teeth should be thoroughly brushed at least twice a day, ideally after eating, while flossing is a highly recommended activity that should be performed daily! Utilizing mouthwash contributes in the elimination of harmful oral bacteria, as well as adopting a healthy diet that avoid excessive amounts of sugar and starches.

What Is Calculus 

Also referred to as tartar, calculus refers to the solidified plaque which cakes the teeth. Calculus, unlike its predecessor, cannot be removed by conventional brushing and flossing. With plaque not being removed over time, it hardens over time and binds into the very structure of the tooth! This is a more serious situation, and can only be remedied by a thorough dental cleaning! If left unchecked, calculus could lead to tooth decay, serious periodontal (gum) disease, and receding gums. 

Removing Calculus

As mentioned above, it remains only feasible for a dental professional to remove the calculus thanks to specialized equipment and expertise! Deep cleanings consist of identifying and scraping away the calculus, while also smoothing down the tooth structure which was once caked in tartar. Afterwards, patients are encouraged to fully commit to practicing the aforementioned oral care habits which remain crucial to blockading the development of calculus… brush and floss! 

Stopping Plaque from Progressing

If left unchecked for long enough, pesky plaque can evolve into more threatening tartar. Stopping calculus from forming is not a complex matter- just strive to stop as much plaque from forming as possible. Engrave these tips into both your minds and routine, and you will surely maintain a smile absent of both excess plaque and eventual calculus:

  • Brush at least twice a day, especially after meals.
  • Floss daily, ideally at night time.
  • Commit to routine dental checkups, usually once every 6 months.
  • Drink water to ensure you’re hydrated! A moist mouth is ideal to combat bacteria.
  • Limit sugar and starch intake.
  • Avoid the use of all tobacco products! Both smoking and chewing.

When Dental Implants is Not an Option

Dentist

With a longstanding history of almost sixty years, dental implants have proven to be effective and reliable procedures restoring smiles, look, and function. While they receive praise from both dentists and patients alike, the truth remains that they are not a widespread solution for all. Your eligibility for such a demanding procedure is based on a multitude of factors. By taking these into consideration, dental professionals may confidently decide if a dental implant is a suitable option for you, or if you’d be better off with alternative options instead.

Not Quite the Right Fit

Dental Implants are invasive and significant procedures, requiring a titanium post to be drilled into your jawbone, permanently fusing artificial teeth into the very fabric of your smile. With that in mind, there are some qualifications a patient must meet in order to ensure the procedure is not only feasible but will remain successful in the long run. Some of the indicators we consider are:

  • Previously having implants installed which failed.
  • Missing bone throughout critical parts of the oral anatomy.
  • Medical conditions and lifestyle choices like severe osteoporosis or heavy smoking. Leading to high risk or unpredictable outcomes in the bone grafting process.
  • Periodontal (gum) diseases, such as gingivitis or periodontitis.
  • Genetically thin gums and bones, leading to an increased risk of losing more bone and gum around the implants as time progresses.
  • Front teeth experiencing vertical bone loss and leading to an unnaturally high smile. 
  • How responsible is the patient? Will they do what’s necessary to maintain the post procedure results?

When determining if implants are the appropriate method to correct your smile, a dental professional will take these points, among others, into careful consideration. 

If it is ultimately decided upon that dental implants are not a feasible feat for your jaw to handle, a dentist will recommend similar alternatives which may be less taxing on your smile. If you fall into this category for whatever circumstance, it’s important to become familiar with your other options. 

You Have Options

Dentures are another staple in the world of dentistry, providing a removable substitute which restores a sizable amount of functionality. 

Full Dentures

Full mouth dentures are an excellent method to remedy a jaw which is missing all of its teeth or anticipating getting all remaining teeth removed due to damage or disease. Providing the façade of having a full set of straight teeth, they also grant patients the renewed ability to properly chew their food. Dentures are not as effective as one’s natural teeth or implants, meaning some restrictions towards diet may be commonplace. 

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures operate similarly to their more encompassing counterparts. These are intended for patients who have several missing teeth which need substitutes, while still maintaining some of their natural teeth as well. Partial dentures are attached to a plastic base matching the color of your gums, allowing them to blend in aesthetically with your gums. Leaving gaps to leave room for your natural teeth to operate properly. However, they are sometimes uncomfortable and may be less reliable than other methods since they require frequent repairs as time carries forward. 

Fixed Bridges

Fixed Bridges, unlike dentures, are fixated in place with a unique bonding material by a dental professional. While technically a permanent option, they are not as intrusive as implants and offer more functionality than dentures. They quickly become an integral part of your oral anatomy, being non removable. This means they have potential to be problematic if not cleaned or cared for correctly, leading to damage among adjacent teeth which could be already healthy. 

Let Us Take a Look

Avoid feeling discouraged if dental implants aren’t the right fit for you! A dental professional will be more than happy to analyze and further discuss your situation and land on the best option suitable for your smile. 

While these options may seem to be less effective alternatives at face value, it’s important to remember that dental implants have their potential downfalls as well. Nothing is absolutely perfect; as long as you maintain your oral care and follow the guidance of your dentist, we can bring your smile to its optimal state no matter the procedure your smile adopts. 

What to Look for When Searching for an Implant Dentist?

Implant

Tooth loss is more common than you think. It is mostly caused by injury, tooth decay, or periodontal disease. In the past, people had to get bridges and dentures to treat missing teeth. Today, dental implants provide a better option. These replacement tooth roots offer a stronger foundation for removable or permanent replacement teeth and allow you to achieve a natural smile, according to My Dentist San Francisco’s website.

There are many reasons why dental implants are recommended such as for improving appearance, speech, comfort, chewing, and self-esteem. As there are many dentists that offer implant treatment, it is important that you know what to look for. To help you make the right decision, here are some of the tips that you should consider.

  1. Seek Referrals

Create a list of potential dentists by asking your family members and friends. You can even ask your healthcare provider for a recommendation. It is important that you ask you around to ensure that you have a few potential dentists on your list. The reason why referrals are important is that they allow you to choose a dentist whom others have been treated by and recommend.

  1. Research the Credentials of the Dentist

To make sure that you hire the right implant dentist, you need to research the credentials of the dentist. One of the most important factors that are worth considering is board certification. It allows you to choose the best dentist for the job. Board certification ensures that the dentist has undergone the necessary training and has the experience needed to provide the desired results.

While researching the credentials of each dentist, you should also check to see if the dentist has a history of disciplinary action or malpractice claims. You can turn to a state website to find out more about the dentist’s certifications, training hospital, medical school, and malpractice history.

  1. Check the Dentist’s Experience

Next, you have to consider the dentist’s experience. When experiencing an oral health issue, you have to look at the experience. Choosing an experienced implant dentist would ensure the best results. Additional training is required for a dental specialty such as implants. If you are dealing with dental anxiety, it makes sense to speak with each implant dentist to learn more about the approach they take to help anxious patients. You should find out how many procedures the dentist has performed and the complication rate to make sure that you choose the best implant dentist.

  1. Inquire About Telehealth Capabilities

Telecommunications technology is used by dentists for diagnosing patients. You should learn more about the telehealth capabilities of the dentist. By choosing an implant dentist that has excellent telehealth capabilities, you get to ensure that you take fewer trips to the clinic. Besides, you would want to choose a professional who provides maximum convenience.

  1. Determine Communication Style

Communication goes a long way in helping make the dental procedure as less stressful as possible. This is why you should look into the communication style of implant dentists. Select someone whom you feel comfortable speaking to and who provides you with the information that you are looking for.

When you ask questions, take notice of how the dentist responds. If he or she welcomes each question, it is a good indicator that you can rely on them. However, if they leave you feeling rushed, you might want to look elsewhere as you have every right to get your questions answered. Always go with an implant dentist who is interested in getting to know you better.

  1. Read Patient Reviews

In addition to the above, you need to read patient reviews to form an opinion about the implant dentist. By reading about what others have to say, you gain valuable insights into how the dentist deals with difficult situations. Read as many patient reviews as possible to gain an honest picture of each dentist. The best thing about patient reviews is that they go beyond the experience and tackle questions around the office environment, staff friendliness, wait times, and scheduling appointments.

  1. Consider Your Insurance Coverage

If you have dental insurance coverage, you need to choose an implant dentist who is covered by your policy. Choose a dentist who requires you to pay the least out-of-pocket expenses. It will help ensure that you do not end up having to spend a lot of money on dental implants. However, you still need to consider quality.

Conclusion

After you have finished reading our post, you will know what to look for in an implant dentist. Make sure to follow our advice for the best experience.

However, if you’re still having challenges finding a reliable dental expert, you can check out this one who does veneers, crowns, and quality Invisalign in Boynton Beach.

NAD+ Supplements for Longevity

Putting a pause to aging has been dismissed as science fiction until the emergence of NAD+ supplements for longevity. Suddenly, everyone is talking about boosting their NAD levels with a pill.

NAD+ supplementation provides numerous benefits. NAD+ supplements are known to rejuvenate your body from the inside. NAD+ or nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide is a coenzyme necessary in various metabolic processes. It helps repair and fuel each cell in your body.

Cells are the building blocks of the human body. Your body has trillions of them. And for you to stay young and healthy, you need to take care of your cellular health.

Sirtuins: The Key to Keeping Your Cells Healthy

Cellular damage is a predominant part of aging. When cell damage accumulates, you experience functional decline and you become more susceptible to diseases.

Your cells rely on sirtuins to stay healthy. Sirtuins are a group of proteins that regulate cellular homeostasis.

Homeostasis is internal balance. It is involved in various functions such as the maintenance of body temperature, glucose levels, blood pressure, fluid volume, and breathing patterns. It is also necessary for your body’s protection from infection and the removal of toxins.

In short, your body needs homeostasis to function, grow, and survive. Without it, your quality of life will suffer. You will experience premature ageing, get sick, and possibly die early.

The SIRT family has seven members. They can influence protein activity in your body. Apart from their importance in cell health, they also play major roles in autophagy, metabolism, and oxidative stress.

SIRT1

Arguably the most researched of all SIRTs, SIR1 functions as a cholesterol sensor. It regulates your cholesterol levels and lipid homeostasis. Reduced SIRT1 expression is also associated with various types of cancer, including prostate and ovarian cancers.

SIR1 is also involved in the regulation of autophagy. Autophagy is your body’s natural way of eliminating damaged cells so that newer and healthier cells can grow.

SIRT2

It has been discovered that SIRT2 can extend the lifespan of yeasts by 50%. It promotes longevity by inhibiting the formation of mutant ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules. There are also reports that calorie restriction increases the lifespan of various organisms by activating SIR2.

SIRT3

Apoptosis, or cellular suicide, is programmed cell death. It is the process of eliminating unwanted cells or those that are damaged beyond repair. When your body loses its apoptotic control, cancer cells will survive longer, accumulate, and increase tumor progression.

Apoptosis is part of your body’s homeostasis and immune reactions and thus contributes to healthy aging.

Research suggests that SIR3 has pro-apoptotic functions and impacts cell growth control.

SIRT4

Telomeres are the specific DNA-protein structures at the end of a chromosome. Their length is maximum at birth and decreases as you age. They are, therefore, a biomarker of aging. Decreased telomere length is linked to cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and other diseases.

SIRT4 aids in the regulation of telomere lengthening and telomerase recruitment. Binding SIRT4 to defective telomerase also helps restore telomere length.

SIRT5

The free radical theory is one of the most popular theories about aging. This theory suggests that reactive oxygen species (ROS), are the major cause of aging. ROS are cytotoxic; they can cause cell damage or cell death.

SIRT5 plays a major role in nitrogenous waste management and ROS detoxification. It helps enhance your body’s defense against cellular damage and promote longevity.

SIRT6

Aging involves the atrophy of our tissues and organs. Damages to our DNA, RNA, proteins, and lipids are part of our aging process. The human genome contains our genetic blueprint and the loss of genome stability contributes to disease and aging. When your body’s natural DNA repair mechanism is impaired, premature aging and age-related diseases occur.

SIRT6 promotes longevity by stimulating PARP1 activity and enhancing DNA repair during oxidative stress.

SIR7

SIRT7 is involved in various biological processes including DNA damage repair, stress response, apoptosis, cellular senescence, and heterochromatin maintenance.

Heterochromatin is vital to the maintenance of genomic stability, which, as mentioned earlier, plays a key role in aging.

Why You Need a NAD Booster

SIRTs depends on NAD+ to work. When your NAD+ levels are low, SIRT activity also decreases.

You must take NAD supplements because your NAD levels decline by 50% between ages 40 and 60. The irony is that as DNA damage and chromosome instability worsens, the more NAD+ sirtuins consume.

Reduced NAD+ levels lead to various problems like premature aging and age-related diseases such as diabetes, cognitive impairment, and high blood pressure.

Taking NAD+ supplements for longevity is a practical way of prolonging your life and protecting yourself from age-related diseases. Preventing the depletion of NAD+ in your body is a promising strategy to preserve your quality of life.

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Ou, X., Lee, M. R., Huang, X., Messina-Graham, S., & Broxmeyer, H. E. (2014). SIRT1 positively regulates autophagy and mitochondria function in embryonic stem cells under oxidative stress. Stem cells (Dayton, Ohio), 32(5), 1183–1194. https://doi.org/10.1002/stem.1641

Michan, S., & Sinclair, D. (2007). Sirtuins in mammals: insights into their biological function. The Biochemical journal, 404(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.1042/BJ20070140

Kaeberlein M, Kirkland KT, Fields S, Kennedy BK (2004) Sir2-Independent Life Span Extension by Calorie Restriction in Yeast. PLoS Biol 2(9): e296. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pbio.0020296

Simon J. Allison & J Milner (2007) SIRT3 is Pro-Apoptotic and Participates in Distinct Basal Apoptotic Pathways, Cell Cycle, 6:21, 2669-2677. https://doi.org/10.4161/cc.6.21.4866

Allison, S. J., & Milner, J. (2007). SIRT3 is pro-apoptotic and participates in distinct basal apoptotic pathways. Cell cycle (Georgetown, Tex.), 6(21), 2669–2677. https://doi.org/10.4161/cc.6.21.4866

Vaiserman, A., & Krasnienkov, D. (2021). Telomere Length as a Marker of Biological Age: State-of-the-Art, Open Issues, and Future Perspectives. Frontiers in genetics, 11, 630186. https://doi.org/10.3389/fgene.2020.630186

Hass, E. P., & Zappulla, D. C. (2015). The Ku subunit of telomerase binds Sir4 to recruit telomerase to lengthen telomeres in S. cerevisiae. eLife, 4, e07750. https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.07750

Teppo, H. R., Soini, Y., & Karihtala, P. (2017). Reactive Oxygen Species-Mediated Mechanisms of Action of Targeted Cancer Therapy. Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2017, 1485283. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/1485283

Maynard, S., Fang, E. F., Scheibye-Knudsen, M., Croteau, D. L., & Bohr, V. A. (2015). DNA Damage, DNA Repair, Aging, and Neurodegeneration. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 5(10), a025130. https://doi.org/10.1101/cshperspect.a025130

Mao, Z., Hine, C., Tian, X., Van Meter, M., Au, M., Vaidya, A., Seluanov, A., & Gorbunova, V. (2011). SIRT6 promotes DNA repair under stress by activating PARP1. Science (New York, N.Y.), 332(6036), 1443–1446. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1202723

Sun, L., & Dang, W. (2020). SIRT7 slows down stem cell aging by preserving heterochromatin: a perspective on the new discovery. Protein & cell, 11(7), 469–471. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13238-020-00735-5

Imai, S., & Guarente, L. (2014). NAD+ and sirtuins in aging and disease. Trends in cell biology, 24(8), 464–471. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tcb.2014.04.002

Schultz, M. B., & Sinclair, D. A. (2016). Why NAD(+) Declines during Aging: It’s Destroyed. Cell metabolism, 23(6), 965–966. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2016.05.022

Top Skincare Tips From Dermatologists On How To Remove Dark Spots

Skin care

Dermatologists know all about skincare and how to remove dark spots. In this article, we will be discussing the top tips from dermatologists on how to achieve brighter and evenly toned skin. From using sunscreen religiously to exfoliating regularly, these tips will help you get on your way to perfect skin!

Face Mask

1. Non-Invasive Skin Procedures

A quick and easy fix that can help to remove dark spots and brighten up the skin is through non-invasive procedures. One example of this procedure is laser therapy which can be used preventatively as well as post-treatment for hyperpigmentation – a fancy word for those pesky dark spots! Laser therapy will not only erase existing hyperpigmentation but will also help to reduce new ones from occurring. It offers fast results with little discomfort or downtime. You could visit a spa for some LightRx Face & Body treatments. And, if you are interested in laser therapy, it’s best to visit a dermatologist who has experience performing the procedure and finding the right settings for each patient’s skin type and condition. After a consultation, ask for a few before and after pictures so you can see the results.

2. The Right Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must-have in any skincare routine to protect from sun damage. Applying sunscreen should be done 30 minutes before going outside, even on cloudy days as UV rays can penetrate through clouds! Dermatologists recommend using at least an SPF 15 during the day and if possible use an SPF 30 or higher if swimming or sweating excessively throughout the day. 

Sunscreens come in many forms including gel creams, lotions, sprays, and powders leaving no excuse to wear them! If your sunscreen does not include UVA/UVB protection, make sure to purchase one that does as these are the two types of radiation that can lead to skin cancer. However, keep in mind that, when used in moderation under controlled conditions, sunlight can actually help to heal problematic skin conditions by releasing Vitamin D which is essential for bone health.

3. Don’t Use Soap On Your Face

When washing your face, avoid using bar soaps and opt for liquid or gel-based cleansers instead. Bar soaps usually contain harsh chemicals which strip away the natural oils on our skin that protect us from bacteria and environmental exposure. To ensure cleanliness, dermatologists recommend cleansing at least twice a day with an exfoliating scrub once in the morning and once before bedtime. If you experience dryness or redness after cleansing there is a chance your facial cleanser may be too harsh for your skin type – speak to a dermatologist about other options available!

4. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliation is key to removing dry, dead skin cells that will lead to a dull complexion. As we get older, our body’s natural ability to rejuvenate slows down so it is important to exfoliate more frequently in our 30’s and 40’s than when we were younger. When choosing an exfoliating scrub, look for the words microcrystalline or polyethylene on the label as these are gentle enough for every skin type. Two times a week should be sufficient if you are new to exfoliation but can be increased gradually according to personal preference. Be sure not to over-exfoliate as this can irritate sensitive skin!

5. Enzymes Are A Gentle Remedy

For those with sensitive skin, look for a gentle enzyme exfoliate available from your dermatologist or local beauty supply store. Enzymes work to dissolve dead skin cells and absorb excess oil on the surface of the skin without irritating. They can also be applied to other areas on the body that are prone to acne breakouts such as the chest, back, and shoulders.

6. Customize Your Skincare Routine

Not everyone’s skin is the same which means not every skincare regimen will be the same! If you find that a particular product gives you irritation, stop using it immediately and speak with a dermatologist about finding an alternative solution. It may take a bit of trial and error but at least this way you can be confident in knowing that your products are being used safely! No matter what type or brand of product you use, dermatologists always recommend talking to your doctor before starting a new treatment to make sure it is appropriate for your skin type.

Face Care

Over the last few decades, dermatology has made many advances towards improving the lives of those living with skin conditions and diseases worldwide. Although there is still a lot of research being done on what causes hyperpigmentation and how to prevent it from occurring, these six simple tips on how to remove dark spots can be used as a daily regimen for those looking for some easy ways to get rid of dark marks on their face. 

10 questions to ask on a dating site before meeting offline

Dating Sites

There is a theory that 5-7 phrases in a conversation are enough to understand how a person suits you. At first glance, this seems very small. But let’s think about it. Even such a short conversation is enough to:

  • hear the voice and intonation of the interlocutor
  • assess a person’s mood
  • understand the level of interest in communication
  • feel if a stranger is honestly answering you, and much more

Of course, a short conversation is not enough to find out everything about the other person and understand that they are THE ONE. But this is enough to get a good first impression.

The problem is that this theory works great offline, but is much less effective online. Especially if we’re talking about communication by text messaging. In this format, you can communicate for hours every day, but you still cannot understand what kind of person is on the other side of the screen. Which means your offline meeting can be very unpredictable.

We want to help you make online dating more efficient, more comfortable and not least, safer. And for this we’ve prepared our own list of ten questions that should be asked before organizing an offline meeting.

What to ask the other person

Let’s say right away that there won’t be any cunning psychological tricks. The questions are quite simple, but at the same time, they will give you a lot of important information about the other person.

1. “Can you tell me about your family?”

A person who does not talk about family may be hiding something. Including an existing relationship. If they complain about their family, this is also a cause for concern. Perhaps they just get along badly with loved ones. On the other hand, if a man, for example, talks about a warm relationship with his mother, this may indicate that he is respectful of other women.

2. “How do you think your friends would describe you?”

This is a good question that can lead to interesting insights. The fact is that even the most sociable and outgoing person might find it difficult to talk about them — to praise or and even more to look critically. But by taking the perspective of someone else, it is much easier to talk about yourself in a third person. And this story will often be more objective and honest. Be sure to ask this question before the first real meeting!

3. “How did your parents meet?”

Frankly speaking, the circumstances of how the parents of a potential partner got together do not matter to you at all. But answering this question will help you learn more about a person’s relationship with family. Some do not even know the finer details of their parents’ relationship. Perhaps this is also an alarm bell, which speaks of difficulties in communicating with loved ones.

4. “What’s your favorite book?”

Once the American producer John Waters said: “If you come to a man’s house and he has no books, you shouldn’t have sex with him.” A dislike for books may indicate a lack of education and simple lack of curiosity and imagination. Most likely, one day you will simply get bored with them and have nothing to talk about.

5. “Do you really love what you do?”

A man’s answer can tell a lot about his ambitions and plans for the future. If he complains about his life and work but says that he can not change anything or plans to change “one day”, it is better not to develop a connection with him. Otherwise, your relationship will also be full of uncertainty and plans that are never destined to come true.

6. “Are you a morning person or a night owl?”

It would seem a simple little thing. But believe us, if your relationship develops and grows into a family, having different routines can greatly spoil life for both of you.

7. “Can you tell me about your best adventure?”

It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t like to travel. But favorite travel methods and locations can be very different. For some, the best vacation is to lie on a sunny beach for a week, and for some to go on a multi-day extreme hike in the mountains and test your endurance. Having learned what format of leisure and recreation your partner prefers, you can find common interests and even choose the best option for a first date.

8. “What is your current goal in life?”

If the other person laughs it off and names completely stupid goals, this is the occasion to seriously think about whether you want to develop your relationship. Too ambitious, unrealistic goals are also not very good. An excellent sign is if the other person talks about really important and at the same time realizable goals: to complete their studies with honors and get a job in a certain company, master a new profession, buy a house or a car in three years, and the like.

9. “Where would you like to be right now?”

The answer to this question will help you learn about the person’s favorite places, interests, and dreams. By the way, it can be a hint where to hold your first offline meeting.

10. “What annoys you or do you dislike?”

In general, when meeting, it is better to avoid any topics with a negative aspect. But this question is important. The answer to it helps you get to know the person and find a lot in common with them. For example, you might both hate cigarette smoke, noisy nightclubs, or out-of-control youth on electric scooters. Isn’t that a topic for an interesting conversation?

Bonus: taboo topics and questions

If you don’t want to push the person away from the very beginning, try to avoid questions about exes, salary and money, politics and religion. It is better to postpone such topics for the future. Sooner or later, you’ll definitely discuss them. But while you still do not know the person well enough, we recommend that you bypass such sensitive topics. And if the other person initiates a conversation that is unpleasant for you, let them know about it. Just say, “Let’s put this topic aside for later.” Nothing wrong with that.

Why should these questions be asked via video communication and not by writing?

The main argument is that the writing gives the person time to find the most suitable but not always truthful answer. People tend to idealize themselves and try to appear better in the eyes of others. And if you give them extra time to think about the answer, they will use it to their advantage. As a result, instead of the truth, you risk getting a beautiful lie.

You can and should communicate by writing. But if you have a serious conversation and you want to better understand the other person, we still recommend video communication. In addition, many dating platforms are now implementing video chat functionality. It is very convenient!

Plus, do not forget about online video chats, where communication by default occurs via video communication. Here is just a small list of popular video chat sites worthy of your attention:

  1. Omegle — the first video chat in history, which has been working since 2009.
  2. Omegle TV chat — a video chat with a perfect gender filter. Chat with ladies on omegletv.chat which connects men exclusively with girls.
  3. OmeTV — a chat site with gender and geographic filters, and also with an automatic message translation function.
  4. Chatrandom — a video chat site with gender and geographic filters, as well as thematic chat rooms by interests.
  5. Monkey — a video chat with a Duo function that allows you to add a friend to a conversation by sending them an invitation link.
  6. Chathub — an online video chat with gender and language filters.
  7. EmeraldChat — a video chat application with karma rating and the ability to exchange media files.
  8. Bazoocam — a chat site with online mini-games and a separate section with video broadcasts (streams).
  9. ChatAlternative — almost a complete copy of OmeTV, but with a different interface design.

And this is not the whole list of online video chats. In fact, there are many more of them, and in the future, there will certainly be even more. But if you are looking for a good video chat for dating here and now, take a closer look at these options.

A great match lies in asking questions

No single interaction or conversation via video communication will allow you to learn about a person 100%. But this does not mean that writings and conversations should be transferred offline as soon as possible. Haste, especially in our time, is absolutely useless.

We hope our list of questions will help you better and more accurately evaluate your potential partners online (and offline too). Be more attentive to those you have just met — this is the only way you’ll eventually find someone with whom you’ll be ready to spend your life with. We wish you good luck!

Discover the Best Ways to Care for Your Health in 2022

Learning to support your health and wellness can be a challenge. One of the most common factors that get in the way of health is time. When our lives get busier, we have less time to devote to our health. Luckily, as 2022 begins, there are many ways to help slow down and support health easily.

Health is a journey. As you learn how to support your health journey, it’s important not to compare it to anyone else’s. Remember to be patient with yourself and allow room for growth. This guide breaks down what you need to know about taking care of your health in 2022. 

Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know below. 

Virtual Health Management

Much of the world is moving towards virtual, online accessible resources. From online education, remote work, and teladoc visits, there are so many ways you can take advantage of health online. This is an excellent tool for those who are on the go, have busy schedules, or who’d prefer to stay home while managing their health. 

How can you do this? Here’s what you need to know. 

Vessel health is an online tool that helps you manage your health without leaving the comfort of your own home. This virtual platform offers access to nutritionists, doctors, health professionals, and much more so you can support your wellness from wherever you are. 

It works using test strips you can pee on to gather results. Simply scan these results with the online tool or app to see what you need to do. The app will then guide you to increase hydration, vitamins, nutrients, or whatever else you need in response to your results. 

Another way you can track and manage your health is by using an Apple Watch. Track your activity, manage your fitness, and keep tabs on your to-dos all at once with this convenient, portable accessory for taking care of your health. 

Exercise from Home

Exercise is another critical aspect of health and wellness. When we exercise, we get our heart rates up and support cardiovascular health. In turn, this benefits faster delivery of oxygen to tissues, support for organ function, and increased energy. Other benefits of exercise include muscle growth, weight management, regulation for cholesterol and blood pressure, and more. 

The benefits of exercising also extend to mental health. Exercise helps release dopamine, our feel good hormone, which can support overall mental wellness. Engaging in exercise is also an excellent way to soothe feelings of overwhelm and stress. Practices like yoga, walking, and stretching are especially effective for stress relief and mental health. 

While exercise is absolutely essential to taking care of your health in 2022, finding the time to workout can be a challenge. Most gyms are packed with people, and in the wake of COVID-19, exercising so close to others may not seem appealing. This has led many to exercise from home. 

Even when you take advantage of exercises you can do at home, you may miss the intensity and equipment you once had access to. This is where Peloton comes in handy. This exercise bike allows for intense training to push the mind and body without leaving the comfort of your own home. Enjoy access to a virtual trainer, different features and workouts, and even working out with others via the internet. Exercising from home doesn’t have to be lonely. 

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is another critical factor to health and wellness. Sleep is how our bodies reset and rejuvenate. When we sleep, we let our minds take a break and allow ourselves time to catch up. Lacking sleep can have a range of side effects. 

Some short term side effects of not getting enough sleep include irritability, lack of appetite, feeling groggy and lacking focus, needing to nap in the middle of the day, or generally throwing off your circadian rhythm and sleep schedule. 

However, lack of sleep can also have some long term side effects that are more serious. For instance, not getting enough sleep habitually can weaken the immune system, negatively impact memory and cognitive function, increase blood pressure, increase the risk for developing diseases, lead to weight gain, decrease sex drive, and much more. 

Without sleep, our bodies simply cannot function the way they’re supposed to, so when it comes to health and wellness, sleep should be a priority. For some, prioritizing sleep can be a challenge. If you’re stressed, drink too much caffeine, or struggle with psychological issues, you may find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep at night. 

Here are a few ways to help! First, make sure your bedding is comfortable. From your mattress to your comforter and sheets, you should be able to get comfortable at night. These are the best sheets for getting a good night’s sleep.

Pain is another factor that can keep many up at night. If you’re dealing with chronic pain in the joints, back, muscles, or other areas, you may experience difficulty falling asleep at night. Hempvana pain relief cream can help! Derived from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant, hemp is a powerful, natural pain reliever. With fast-acting and long-lasting abilities, you can enjoy natural pain relief all night long. 

If you have little ones, if they don’t sleep, neither will you. Consider these natural sleep drops to help put your little ones to sleep so you can catch some Zs, as well. Consider the Dream Sock for new babies and little ones, too! This smart baby monitor attaches to your baby’s foot and tracks their sleep so you can sleep better, too.

Health for Your Furry Friends

CBD has increased in popularity over recent years, and for good reason. This natural compound supports mental and physical health and wellness. But, did you know your pets could also enjoy the benefits of CBD? Cbd for pets is an excellent way to support your pet’s health naturally and provide relief from pain and discomfort. 

Supporting Sexual Health

When it comes to health, sexual wellness is important. How can you support your health in this way? There are many different ways, but Nugenix.com has a lot to offer. Support men’s vitality and wellness with this testosterone boosting supplement. 

Another way to support sexual wellness for women is to use chemical-free, organic cotton pads for periods. This is not only sustainable for the planet, but for your body, too! 

Staying Healthy in the Midst of COVID-19 

It’s no secret that COVID-19 has become one of the largest health concerns. Luckily, as we move into a new year, we’ve learned how to keep one another safe. If you’re looking for safety in style, take a look at this Stylish PPE by stoggles

Health at a Cellular Level

It’s easy to get overwhelmed when we think of health on a large-scale. However, another way to look at health is at a cellular level. What is cellular health? In short, it is a way to support cellular wellness which in turn, supports overall wellness for our whole bodies. Along with healthy meal prep, cellular health, and the other tips mentioned in this guide, you can take control of your health this year and enjoy a new start.

What you should consider before buying CBD vape oil 

CBD oil

If you own a CBD vape, then you should buy CBD vape oil that works well for you. Many CBD suppliers can have good gummy products or CBD oil products, but this can’t prevent you from vaping CBD. Remember that the best CBD vape oil can give you quicker effects to make your CBD experience a memorable one. This post explains what you should consider before buying CBD vape oil. 

Understanding CBD vape oil

Whether it’s CBD vape juice or CBD vape oil, they mean the same thing. When you decide to vape CBD, it doesn’t mean that you will be vaping CBD oils. Instead, you will be vaping a type of an e-liquid that is formulated for inhalation.

No doubt, CBD vape oils provide the best way you can enjoy all the benefits of CBD quickly. CBD can quickly get into your bloodstream to ensure that you have therapeutic benefits, such as relief from anxiety and pain instantly. Even better, CBD vape oil is easy to transport and use because you can simply take it with you wherever you decide to go. 

You can also enjoy the smoking experience while having relieving and calming effects. CBD vape oil comes in a wide range of concentrations, so make sure that you choose the right dosage.  

Things to look out for before you decide to purchase CBD vape oil

A CBD manufacturer can claim that their CBD products went through independent lab tests. However, it’s always up to you to verify the lab test results. Therefore, it’s a good idea to check the lab results that are on the product description because they are made available when you are buying from any reputable CBD product supplier.

Once you read the lab test results, you should confirm its potency and even confirm that it doesn’t have any fillers or chemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides.

If you have enough experience in vaping CBD and bought CBD vape oil before, then you can make a decision based on the strain of the product and flavor. But if you are a newbie to CBD vape oil, then you have to buy from reputable suppliers that provide informative product descriptions.

In these details, you can find out information, such as the ingredients that are included and the effects you can expect after consuming the CBD vape oil. If the potency happens to be low, you can expect the CBD to function as an energizer. This is the type of a vape that is suitable for daytime use as they can help you to be focused. Other strains can induce you to have a deep sense of relaxation, so they are ideal when you are already tired and want to sleep.

Because CBD concentration can affect how you feel, you need to know the effect you desire to have. If you are not sure, then you can choose to try a variety of vape juices so that you can get their feel. In this way, you can narrow down your options until you find the right one that meets your needs.

6 Important Steps That You Should Include In Your Skincare Routine

Skincare Routine

Your skincare routine is important, and it’s essential to make sure that you’re doing everything you can to take care of your skin. Here are 6 important steps that you should include in your skincare routine.

1) Try Serums

One of the most important steps in your skincare routine is to use a serum. A serum will usually have concentrated ingredients that are meant to target specific skin issues, such as wrinkles and acne. Using a serum will help your other skincare products work better. However, you should do your research to find a serum that will be suitable for you, but try to find something that is all-natural and environmentally friendly. If this is something that’s important for you, you should try Terasana since its products are 100% natural. Your skin is unique and so should your skincare routine.

2) Try Moisturizers

Everyone’s skin is different, and everyone has different needs when it comes to moisturizing their face. If you have dry skin, then a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid will work best for you. If you have oily skin, a moisturizer that has salicylic acid will be best for you. However, if you have normal skin, you should look for a moisturizer that doesn’t contain any oils at all in it. If you’re not sure what kind of moisturizer is best for your skin type, choose an all-natural one. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something that will target facial hydration at a cellular level, then Calecim Professional’s stem cell skincare line is perfectly tailored for that.You can also consult with your dermatologist to find out what moisturizer would be best for you.

3) Protect Your Skin From The Sun

It’s important that you protect your skin from the sun, especially if you’re outside often. When it comes to protecting your face, sunscreen is really the only option that you should consider using. There are many different kinds of sunscreen that you can choose from; many are lotions, while others are sprays. When choosing a sunscreen, make sure to look for one that provides at least an SPF 30 (or higher). This way, you’ll be able to protect your skin effectively while still enjoying time in the sun.

Cleanse (4) & Exfoliate (5) Your Skin

You should cleanse and exfoliate your skin twice a day. When you wash your face, make sure that you are only using products that are pH-balanced so that they are not too acidic or alkaline. You can do this by consulting with your dermatologist if you’re not sure what products to buy. If you don’t have one try searching by your city such as Surprise AZ dermatology offices. There are many different kinds of exfoliators that you can choose from; some are meant to only be used once a week, and others can be used more often. However, even if you’re using an exfoliator that is safe for everyday use, do not overdo it or your skin will become irritated and flaky.

6) Use A Toner

Besides cleansing and exfoliating your skin, you should also use toner. A toner can help restore the pH balance of your skin as well as make sure that it’s clean from any residue leftover from cleansing. You can purchase natural toner at most local drug stores or supermarkets. If you don’t want to buy a toner, there are some other options that will help balance the pH of your skin. You can use a mixture of 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 cup water, or you can also mix tea tree oil with witch hazel.

In What Order Should You Use These Products?

Now that you know all about the different products that you should use, you might wonder about the order in which you should use them. You should cleanse your face first with a pH-balanced gentle cleanser before using an exfoliator; many people will recommend that you don’t use any sort of product (even sunscreen) after the exfoliation process because it can become too harsh on your skin. However, exfoliators are only used once or twice weekly, so you will be able to use sunscreen and other products on non-exfoliation days. If you want to use a product with retinol (such as an anti-aging serum), wait until after your exfoliator before using it. Once the exfoliator has dried, apply moisturizer to your face. Lastly, you can use a serum and sunscreen, of course.