Healthy Habits - National Gum Health Month: Why Healthy Gums Are the Foundation of Great Cosmetic Dentistry

  Cosmetic dentistry is becoming faster, more precise and less invasive, with innovations such as 3D-printed veneers giving patients new options for transforming their smiles. But as dental technology advances, one fundamental hasn't changed: a healthy smile starts with healthy gums. With September recognized as National Gum Health Month, Dr. Kooper Ruminer, founder of 405 Dental Aesthetics in Oklahoma City, says patients considering cosmetic treatments should pay just as much attention to the health of their gums as the appearance of their teeth.

 

“We cannot overlook the important role that healthy gums play in our lives and even their impact on our overall health.” said Dr. Ruminer. “We can have incredible technology and new ways to improve the appearance of teeth, but gum health has to be part of the conversation. Before we talk about veneers or a smile makeover, we want to make sure the foundation is healthy.” 

 

One of the emerging technologies changing cosmetic dentistry is 3D-printed veneers. Unlike traditional porcelain veneers, which may require more extensive preparation and laboratory fabrication, 3D printing can provide a faster and potentially more conservative option for appropriate patients.

 

Research published in the January 2025 Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry reported that dentistry is evolving toward the reduction of invasiveness. This means preserving as much of the tooth as possible and potentially using more thin and minimally invasive or non-invasive restorations. They conclude that 3D printed veneers demonstrate excellent fit. It examined ultra-thin, non-prep 3D-printed veneers as dentistry continues moving toward more conservative restorative approaches designed to preserve natural tooth structure. 

 

For some patients, 3D-printed veneers may also provide a more accessible entry point into cosmetic dentistry. They can cost significantly less than traditional porcelain veneers and may require less alteration of the natural tooth. They are an ideal option for someone who is not ready to make the financial commitment to porcelain ones and wants to keep their options open. It allows them to have a beautiful smile as they save for more durable and longer-lasting ones, or decide on their next plan of action. 

 

Yet, even the latest cosmetic technology depends on what is happening beneath the smile. It is crucial that people have healthy gums in order to help protect their oral health, as well as their overall health. Many people don’t realize that their gums are tied to their overall health and well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gum disease (periodontal disease), is largely preventable and treatable. 

 

Gum disease, the CDC reports, is a broad term for conditions involving inflammation and infection of tissues that surround and support the teeth. They report that 4 out of 10 adults over the age of 30 have some degree of periodontitis, and around 60% of adults over the age of 65 have some level of it. The condition can be treated, but left untreated, it can worsen other health conditions, such as diabetes. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of bacteria that can trigger inflammation and may affect health beyond the mouth.

 

Dr. Ruminer recommends five everyday habits for protecting gum health:

 

• Proper brushing and flossing are essential. Many people quickly brush and may not even engage in flossing daily. Avoid being too abrasive when brushing, or it can lead to gum damage. Brushing should be done with soft, short strokes or tiny circles, and for two minutes twice daily.

 

• Cleaning the tongue should be part of a daily routine. The tongue is the largest organ in the oral cavity, and it can hold bacteria. Whether using a tongue scraper or toothbrush, make cleaning the tongue a daily habit.

 

• Eat healthy foods so they will help scrape plaque off the teeth and keep gums healthier. These include things like apples, carrots, celery, and nuts. Fiber-rich foods will help to keep the teeth cleaner.

 

• Avoid tobacco use. Smoking is a major risk factor for gum disease and can interfere with the body's ability to heal. Smoking restricts blood flow, increases bacteria due to less saliva, causes slower healing, and puts people at higher risk for tooth loss. 

 

• Keep up with dental visits. Regular exams and professional cleanings can help identify gum problems early, before they become more advanced. This will help to keep the teeth and gums healthier, and issues can often be detected and addressed before they become severe.

 

“Patients often come in because they want to change something they see in the mirror, but our first responsibility is making sure the smile is healthy,” said Dr. Ruminer. “Once we have that foundation, today's cosmetic options give us more ways than ever to create a smile that looks natural and feels like you.”

Dr. Kooper Ruminer is a cosmetic dentist and smile specialist located in Oklahoma City. 

 

He is the owner of 405 Dental Aesthetics, where he offers general and cosmetic dentistry. His services include general dentistry, restorative dentistry, clear aligners, emergency dentistry, and sedation dentistry. Restorative treatments include dental bridges, bonding, crowns, dentures, implants, and root canals. Cosmetic services include 3D no-prep veneers, minimal-prep and traditional veneers, smile makeovers, gum contouring, clear aligners and other restorative and aesthetic treatments. He offers a complimentary cosmetic consultation. To get more information, visit the site at: https://405dentalaesthetics.com/.

 

 

About Dr. Kooper Ruminer: Dr. Kooper Ruminer is the founder of 405 Dental Aesthetics, a state-of-the-art boutique dental practice located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Dr. Ruminer earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. The practice offers comprehensive dental care for children and adults, combining advanced technology with a highly personalized, patient-first approach. Services include cosmetic, restorative, general, emergency, and sedation dentistry, as well as aligners, implants, and no prep veneers. Follow @405.Dental to see smile makeovers and confident, natural results from@DoctorKooper. Learn more at405DentalAesthetics.com.

 

Source:

Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry. 3D Printed Ultra-Thin Non-Prep Lithium Disilicate Veneers. January 2025. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12087940/

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Periodental (Gum) Disease. May 2024. https://www.cdc.gov/oral-health/about/gum-periodontal-disease.html

Parenting Pointers - Back-to-School Parenting Videos from ABCmouse

 Age of Learning, the company behind ABCmouse®, the most downloaded kids' education app trusted by families and educators for more than 15 years, today announced a new partnership with Emmy®, Grammy®, and Golden Globe®-nominated actress and mom of three, Mandy Moore as part of its 2026 back-to-school campaign.

The partnership comes at a moment when families are shifting from summer schedules to school-year routines and parents are thinking about how to help their children start the year feeling prepared, confident, and excited to learn. Whether a child is heading into a classroom for the first time, building foundational skills at home, or looking for extra practice beyond the school day, ABCmouse gives families a research-backed way to make learning part of everyday life.

The campaign is also rooted in a reality parents know well: raising young children means making countless choices every day and wanting to feel confident those choices are helping them learn, grow, and thrive. As screen time becomes an increasingly common part of family life, ABCmouse is helping parents make that time count, giving children an experience they love while helping them build the skills they need for school and beyond.

"Back-to-school brings lots of excitement, but it also brings a lot of questions for parents: Is my child ready? Are they building the right skills? Am I doing enough to support them?" said Alex Galvagni, CEO of Age of Learning. "Parents already have enough to think about every day. We want ABCmouse to be the one choice they don't have to second-guess. Our goal has always been to combine the joy and engagement kids love with meaningful learning that parents and educators can trust. This partnership with Mandy is about giving families confidence that even a small moment in a busy day can become a chance for their child to learn and grow."

Moore, a singer, actress, producer, and working mother of three young children, brings a deeply relatable perspective to the campaign. Like parents everywhere, she is navigating busy schedules, changing routines, and decisions about how and when her children use screens.

"As a parent, I want my kids to be excited about learning and to develop that love of learning early on," said Mandy Moore. "What I love about ABCmouse is that they're having fun and are engaged, while I know they're building important skills. It's screen time I can feel really good about."

The campaign will roll out across ABCmouse's YouTube and social channels, with a series of videos featuring Moore delivering her signature warmth and candor while sharing reflections on working motherhood, screen time, and the everyday choices parents make to support their children's learning, along with playful social content inspired by her Y2K roots.

At the center of the campaign is ABCmouse's research-backed learning experience, which offers more than 13,000 activities for children ages 2–8 in a safe, ad-free environment built just for kids. Its curriculum helps children strengthen foundational skills across key subjects while fostering the confidence and curiosity that can help set the stage for future learning.

Research shows ABCmouse can make a meaningful difference in children's learning. In a randomized controlled trial, children who used ABCmouse demonstrated more than twice the growth in reading and math skills compared with children who did not use the program^[1]. For parents, that means greater confidence that their children are building skills that can help them feel more prepared for the school year ahead.

The back-to-school campaign marks ABCmouse's first celebrity spokesperson partnership and reflects the brand's continued commitment to supporting families with high-quality learning experiences they can trust. At a time when parents have more digital options than ever, ABCmouse helps make one choice easier: giving children screen time that is engaging, purposeful, and grounded in learning.

ABCmouse is available for free on iOS, Android, Amazon, and desktop browsers. Families can download the app or get started at ABCmouse.com.

About ABCmouse

ABCmouse® is the most downloaded kids' education app and the most comprehensive digital learning program for children ages 2–8. Developed by Age of Learning, ABCmouse delivers a research-backed curriculum spanning reading, math, science, coding, and life skills through more than 13,000 games, activities, books, and videos. Research shows ABCmouse doubles early learning gains in reading and math*, giving children the foundational skills they need to thrive in school and beyond. ABCmouse is available on iOS, Android, Amazon, and desktop browsers.

*Randomized control trial conducted by Age of Learning. PreK children used ABCmouse for at least 2 days/week and for at least 1 hour per week. Go to www.aofl.com/research for more information.

About Age of Learning

Age of Learning® is the leading developer of engaging and effective Pre-K through 2nd grade learning resources that help children build a strong foundation for academic success and a lifelong love of learning. The company's research-based curriculum, developed by education experts, includes the award-winning programs ABCmouse®, ABCmouse for Teachers, Adventure Academy®, as well as the adaptive, personalized school solutions, My Math Academy®, My Reading Academy®, and My Reading Academy Español®. Having served over 55 million children worldwide, Age of Learning is a global leader in efforts to advance equity, access, and opportunity for all children. To learn more about Age of Learning, visit AgeofLearning.com.

^[1] Randomized control trial conducted by Age of Learning. PreK children used ABCmouse for at least 2 days/week and for at least 1 hour per week. Go to www.aofl.com/research for more information.

Music Minute - West Coast Songwriters Conference (LA, 10/9-10/11)

 West Coast Songwriters will bring its songwriting community together for the 46th Annual West Coast Songwriters Conference, a three-day event at the Los Angeles College of Music, 307 S. Fair Oaks Ave. Pasadena, CA. Tickets to the event are available HERE. 

Designed to educate, connect, and inspire songwriters at every stage of their careers, the annual conference will feature industry panels, one-on-one meetings, networking opportunities, a keynote presentation, and opportunities for attendees to share their music.

Panel speakers include Ben Kramer, head of artist and label development at YouTube; Lauren Christy, songwriter whose credits include Avril Lavigne, Hilary Duff, Jason Mraz, Bebe Rexha, Dua Lipa and Enrique Iglesias; Kasia “KC” Livingston, whose credits include Whitney Houston, the Pussycat Dolls, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and Jessie J and Heather Holley, whose credits include Christina Aguilera, Jackie Evancho and Skylar Grey.

“West Coast Songwriters has always been about bringing people together through the power of a great song. Our 46th Annual Conference is a celebration of that tradition while looking boldly toward the future of songwriting, music, and the industry. We’re creating a space where songwriters can learn from the best, make meaningful connections, and leave inspired to take the next step in their careers. I’m incredibly proud to lead WCS into this next chapter and to welcome our songwriting community to what I believe will be one of our most exciting conferences yet,” said Jen Adan, President, West Coast Songwriters.

The conference kicks off Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. with attendee registration and an open mic, giving songwriters an opportunity to connect and perform as the weekend gets underway.

Programming continues on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring educational panels, one-on-one meetings, and networking opportunities. Lunch is included with Saturday’s programming.

On Sunday, conference activities run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and include a keynote presentation and a speed-networking round, providing attendees with additional opportunities to meet and engage with fellow songwriters and music industry professionals.

The weekend concludes Sunday evening with a wrap party at 7 p.m. at The Blue Room, 916 S. San Fernando Blvd. in Burbank.

For more than four decades, West Coast Songwriters has supported the development of songwriters by providing educational programs, performance opportunities, and access to music industry professionals. The annual conference continues that mission by creating an environment where aspiring and established songwriters can strengthen their craft, build relationships, and gain practical insight into an evolving music business.

About West Coast Songwriters:
West Coast Songwriters (WCS) was born from a shared passion for music and a belief in the power of song to inspire, connect, and transform lives. Our journey began with Patty and Michael Silvashire, who envisioned a supportive, collaborative community where songwriters could come together to hone their craft, share their stories, and find their voice.
Inspired by the rich musical heritage of the West Coast, our founding members set out to cultivate a vibrant community that celebrates creativity, fosters growth, and champions artistic expression. They envisioned a space where aspiring songwriters could find mentorship, resources, and opportunities to showcase their talent, regardless of their background or level of experience.
Driven by their commitment to excellence and innovation, WCS was born and embarked on a journey of exploration and discovery, embracing the diversity of musical genres and the richness of human experience. We recognized the importance of creating an inclusive and equitable environment where all songwriters feel welcomed, respected, and supported on their creative journey.
With dedication, perseverance, and a shared sense of purpose, we laid the foundation for West Coast Songwriters, shaping it into a dynamic community that continues to inspire, empower, and uplift songwriters from coast to coast. As we continue to evolve and grow, we remain steadfast in our founding principles, guided by our passion for music and our belief in the transformative power of song. WCS is a 501(c)(3) Organization.

Music Minute - Cole Swindell: Bronco

Multi-platinum selling superstar Cole Swindell chronicles his search for his late father's one-of-a-kind truck he and his brothers grew up with in “Bronco,” available everywhere. Written by Swindell alongside Lauren Hungate, Seth Mosely and Jameson Rodgers, the infectious anthem taps into the nostalgic, feel-good emotion Swindell is best known for, introducing a new summer-ready track to fans.   The special song went from “what if” to reality when Swindell sent his brothers the demo, inspiring them to track down their dad's old Bronco. Swindell's brothers surprised him with the car on the emotional music video set of “Girl Dad,” which honors all the moments he wishes he could share with his late father: meeting his wife, Courtney, and having his daughter, Rainey. The sentimental moment brought back all the joyful memories that inspired “Bronco” in the first place – watch here.    “I had no clue when I found this old picture of me and my brothers standing with our Dad by his old Bronco just how many memories it would bring back,” shares Swindell. “It was a huge part of my childhood, and something I've always wanted to find and restore. When my brothers surprised me with it, it was a moment I never thought I'd see and now one that I'll never forget. I'm so grateful for the memories we made with my Dad in that car, and I'm so excited to share this song with you all and sing it out on the road together.”   LISTEN: “BRONCO”   Today's release comes just days before the birthday of Swindell's late father, Keith, and follows the 10-year anniversary of You Should Be Here, the deeply personal title track written in the wake of his passing. It also comes on the heels of “Girl Dad,” Swindell's current single released in June. The “tender ballad” (Country Now) recently impacted airwaves, notching No. 1 most added at Country radio and marking Swindell's highest add date of his career.    Known for his mega-hits like “She Had Me At Heads Carolina,” “Chillin' It,” “Ain't Worth The Whiskey” and more, Swindell is no stranger to honoring the moments that mean the most to us in life. With 13 No. 1s as an artist and 14 as a songwriter, Swindell continues to solidify his place as a “proven hit-maker” (Rolling Stone) in country music.   Keep up with his upcoming announcements at coleswindell.com and on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook.

ABOUT COLE SWINDELL: Country music superstar Cole Swindell, who Rolling Stone has called “a proven hit-maker,” has solidified himself as a hit songwriter, recording artist and headlining performer over the past 12 years. His debut single, “Forever To Me,” from his fifth studio album, Spanish Moss, became his 13th No. 1 single as an artist – 14th as a songwriter. 12 of Swindell's 13 No. 1's are certified Platinum by the RIAA with three being 3x Platinum (“Chillin' It,” “You Should Be Here” and “She Had Me At Heads Carolina”) and two being 2x Platinum (“Ain't Worth The Whiskey” and “Break Up In The End”).   Swindell, who The Tennessean called a “hard charging competitor armed with a mastery of the art of the craft, tirelessly looking for ways to improve his work” charted three back-to-back, Platinum-certified, multi-week No. 1 hits off his fourth studio album, Stereotype: “Single Saturday Night,” “Never Say Never” (with Lainey Wilson) and the five-week 3x Platinum chart-topper, “She Had Me At Heads Carolina,” that garnered three ACM Awards for Single of the Year and Song of the Year (as songwriter and artist), an iHeart Music Award for Country Song of the Year and received a nomination for Musical Event of the Year for the duet remix with Jo Dee Messina at the 57th CMA Awards.   Swindell and his wife recently welcomed their first baby, Rainey, inspiring the release of his viral single, “Girl Dad.” The track recently impacted airwaves, notching No. 1 most added at Country radio and marking Swindell's highest career add day to date. The release is accompanied by an emotional music video that sees Swindell, Courtney and Rainey visiting his dad's gravesite, an ode to the memorable moment in the “You Should Be Here” music video, which is celebrating 10 years since its release this year.   For more information and upcoming tour dates, sign up for the Down Home Crew at www.ColeSwindell.com and follow Swindell on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook.

Music Minute - Bach to Rock Battle of the Bands Winners

Bach to Rock, America's modern music school for students of all ages, proudly announces the champions of its Sixth Annual National Battle of the Bands competition. Following local and regional contests, student bands competed for national honors in four divisions: elementary school, two middle school divisions and high school.  The competition showcased an impressive range of young musical talent, with students demonstrating not only their musicianship, but also the teamwork, confidence and stage presence that is cultivated from performing as a band. A distinguished panel of music industry professionals evaluated the performances and selected first place winners and two runners-up per category. More than 7,700 fan votes were also cast to select a fan favorite in each division prior to the August event. The list of national winners is below, and the performances can be viewed on bachtorock.com/live.

Elementary School Division

• 1st Place: The Runaways – Bach to Rock, Bristow, VA
• Runner-up: The Noodles – Bach to Rock, Rancho Penasquitos, CA
• Runner-up: Evergreen Titans – Bach to Rock, Redmond, WA
• Fan Favorite: The Noodles – Bach to Rock, Rancho Penasquitos, CA

Middle School Division 1

• 1st Place: Kuzin Kru – Bach to Rock, Port Washington, NY
• Runner-up: Overdrive – Bach to Rock, Denville, NJ
• Runner-up: Sick Moose – Bach to Rock, Lutz, FL
• Fan Favorite: Sick Moose – Bach to Rock, Lutz, FL

Middle School Division 2

• 1st Place: Murder On Mars – Bach to Rock, Redmond, WA
• Runner-up: Double Time – Bach to Rock, Nanuet, NY
• Runner-up: Redhorn – Bach to Rock, Northbrook, IL
• Fan Favorite: The Exploding Bobs – Bach to Rock, Apex, NC

High School Division

• 1st Place: Whether For Cast? – Bach to Rock, Lutz, FL
• Runner-up: Slackin Kraken – Bach to Rock, Apex, NC
• Runner-up (tie): Used Car Battery – Bach to Rock, Port Washington, NY
• Runner-up (tie): LOVEblue – Bach to Rock, Fishers, IN
• Fan Favorite: Petrichor – Bach to Rock, East Marietta, GA

"The Battle of the Bands is one of our favorite events because it gives students the experience of preparing for a big gig, from rehearsing and collaborating with their bandmates, to ultimately performing for an audience," said Brian Gross, President of Bach to Rock. "At Bach to Rock, we are performance focused. So, it is rewarding to see the confidence, stage presence and passion each band brings to the stage. We know they have put in a lot of time, energy and dedication to achieving a common goal."

Bach to Rock thanks its all-star panel of judges for bringing their expertise and enthusiasm to the 2026 Battle of the Bands.

• Elementary school judges: Griffin Tenbarge, Kimberly Venetz, Sean Mason
• Middle school division 1 judges: Ben Badger, Jason Clark, Rhett Repko
• Middle school division 2 judges: Ben Badger, Dan English, Kayko
• High school judges: Claudia B, Gabe Baker, Trey Odum

Bach to Rock – A Franchise Opportunity with Industry Stature 
Bach to Rock has earned numerous accolades, including consecutive rankings since 2017 in Entrepreneur Magazine, featuring the 2025 and 2024 Franchise 500®, as well as being named a Top 150 Franchise for Veterans in 2023, and one of the 500 Powerhouse Brands by Franchise Times. The Bach to Rock business model is suited for any music lover who is passionate about enriching his or her community and helping educate children. It is also ideal for experienced investors who appreciate the revenue potential of opening several units. To learn more about franchise ownership opportunities and veteran and franchise referral programs, contact Ralph Rillon, Vice President of Franchise Development, at 1-855-227-7570 or franchise@bachtorock.com, or visit https://www.bachtorock.com/franchise/.

About Bach to Rock
Bach to Rock, America's Music School, is a modern music school for students of all ages, from early childhood through high school and beyond. Bach to Rock knows learning music should be fun, and students learn best when they play music they enjoy. The unique approach combines one-on-one instruction with group practice and performance. Weekly ensemble instruction and band formations lead to public concerts, Battle of the Bands and recording sessions in Bach to Rock's professional recording studios. Bach to Rock builds technique, fosters teamwork, and enhances self-esteem through private lessons, band instruction, and public performances.

Bach to Rock's Beat Refinery is the largest Serato-certified DJ school in the United States and is one of only a handful of schools worldwide to offer the elite training developed by Serato. Serato, founded in 1999, is the premier provider of audio software to the DJ industry. The Serato certification ensures that select Bach to Rock DJ instructors have been trained and authorized to teach using Serato software and equipment.

Primarily franchisee-owned with nearly 60 locations, Bach to Rock has instructed nearly 200,000 aspiring musicians since launching in 2007. For more information, visit https://www.bachtorock.com/franchise/ and follow Bach to Rock on Facebook and on Instagram.