23 Goals for 2023

“Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true.” — Leon Joseph Cardinal Suenens

I really enjoy goal setting. It is one of my key methods of self improvement yearly.

Time and time again, research shows that you are more likely to achieve your goals when you write them down. In that same breath, it is important that when you’re thinking about setting goals, you set yourself up for success. That means having a method of planning that allows you to track your progress in the right way, stay motivated, and encourages you to be both consistent and disciplined. For as long as I can remember, I’ve kept a planner where all tasks, meetings, outings and goals (big, small, daily, weekly, monthly, etc) live. I highly recommend downloading the 2023 goal planner from my shop. I personally use this and update it every year. You can download it for free by signing up for my newsletter.

This year I’m writing my goals down as it corresponds with the year! I heard this pretty cool idea on the GenTwenty podcast and thought I’d give it a whirl so here goes…these are my 23 goals for 2023:

1. Read at least 23 books in 2023

2. Commit to working out 2-3 times per week

3. Run a 10K

4. Maintain a 7-figure practice/business

5. Re-commit to date night with my husband once per week

6. Schedule a CEO day once per month

7. Go to church at least one Sunday per month

8. Complete the Wharton Masters Business of Orthodontics-AAO Program

9. Be more active on the Board of the DC Dental Society

10. Drink more water (4-6 cups/day)

11. Increase my blogging & candle company Income

12. Do one family/kid friendly activity per week(end)

13. Spend 1000 hours outdoors

14. Try a new restaurant every month

15. Find ways to give back to my community

16. Do continuing education (CEs) once per month

17. One spa day per month (self care)

18. Book at least four trips and two “real” vacations

19. Gain a new skill

20. Get more sleep

21. Pay off debt

22. Learn one new recipe every month

23. Shop with more small businesses

Now that I’ve written this on the blog, you get to be my accountability partner. I will do one check-in mid year to update my progress and another at the end of the year. What are your 2023 goals?

Retirement Planning for Young Professionals in 2023

2023 RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTION LIMITS

If you’ve been a reader here for a while you know that financial development is one of my favorite topics, especially when it comes to retirement planning. It is never too early (or late) to start saving towards your retirement! The past several years have made saving and investing a bit challenging but if I had any advice for a place to park what little money you may have left over for investing, it would be in a retirement account.

It is no secret at all that we are heading into a recession, if we are not already in the middle of one. The US government is trying to tighten up to decrease spending across all boards to combat our current inflation crisis. This could mean higher prices for goods and services which will trigger less spending but we could also see a smaller amount left over on our paychecks. It is imperative now more than ever to dump whatever money you may have into a safe place like a retirement fund. Now is not the time for gambling and high risk, in my opinion.

When speaking of saving for retirement, it is very important to have some knowledge of compounding interest to fully understand the benefits of starting early. This post will cover some retirement basics, contribution limits and what to do with extra money should you find yourself so lucky.

I must remind you that retirement planning is a long term investment. In most cases you will not be able to access these funds until around age 59 1/2 without severe ramifications (taxes + penalties). So, if you are investing and need to access your funds sooner than this, you may have to think of other types of investments. Take a look at other investment vehicles here, here and here.

There are many different accounts and plans available and choosing the right one is very important as they each have different benefits and advantages, especially when it comes to tax planning. Here are a few to help you get started:

Simple IRA (Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees)

For the year 2023, participants can make employee contributions of up to a maximum of $15,500 per year if you are under 50 years old and $19,000 if you are older than 50. This is a retirement plan that is usually available to self-employed individuals, however both employee and employer contribute to this account. Contributions are non tax deductible.

Traditional IRA

Anyone can open a traditional IRA account - but honestly, if you are a dentist or physician (like most of my colleagues are), then there really is no use for this type of account. During residency you have the option to open a Roth IRA (more on that below) because your lower salary allows you to stay within the income restrictions. Later as you start your career and your salary increases you will most likely surpass the income caps and will have the ability to deduct your traditional IRA contributions. However, it’s worth understanding as it forms the framework for all other types of retirement accounts. A Traditional IRA is set up by you (not an employer) and the maximum contribution to this type of account is $6,500 if you’re under 50 years old and $7,500 if you’re older. The contributions are tax deductible and grows tax-free.  If you withdraw the money prior to age 59 1/2, there will be ramifications of a 10% tax (penalty) as well as any income tax which would be owed on the money.  After age 59 1/2, you just have to pay the income tax based on your tax bracket at that time.  At age 70, you will be required to start withdrawing part of the money each year, the “Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).”  This is age based and starts out at about 3.6% and increases to about 8.8% at age 90.  

Roth IRA

I absolutely love a Roth IRA. However, there is a contribution income limit. If you make more than $153K (single) or $228K (married), you cannot contribute to a Roth IRA. However, there are ways to get around that with Roth IRA conversions, which we will discuss in a subsequent post. Anyone with earned income can open a Roth IRA and contribute up to $6500 per year. If you’re over 50, those limits are raised to $7500 per year.

The reason I love a Roth IRA is because you contribute with after-tax money, but it is never taxed again!  You don’t pay taxes on capital gains and dividends as the money grows, and it comes out tax-free in retirement.  You generally can’t access the money before age 59 1/2, but unlike a 401K or Traditional IRA there are no required minimum distributions beginning at age 70.

401K

If you are an employee of a company and your employer offers a 401K retirement plan, there’s absolutely no reason why you should not be participating. It is even more important that you participate if said company is offering a match. A match is basically free money! Do not leave free money laying on the table. The contribution maximum for the year 2023 is $22,500 and the great thing about a 401K is that you are investing pre-tax dollars. The not-so great thing is that when you go to retrieve your money (after age 59 1/2), you will be taxed on this (unlike with a Roth IRA).

If you're an Independent Contractor (not a W2 employee), you’re considered to be “running your own business.” In this case, you can also make an employer contribution of 20% of your net income up to $55,000.

SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension)

If you have your own practice, a SEP IRA may be a good option. This allows you to contribute 25% of your business profit or $66,000 per year, whichever is less. The contributions are tax deductible, and investments grow tax deferred until retirement.

IF YOU FIND YOURSELF WITH SOME EXTRA CASH, HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH IT:

Fund a Traditional Brokerage Account

Traditional brokerage accounts don't offer any sort of tax benefit for the money you put in, unlike IRAs and 401Ks. However, they offer flexibility in that you can withdraw funds at any time and for any reason. If you decide to retire early, like my husband did, you can use the money in your brokerage account to pay your living expenses. There are no income limits associated with funding a brokerage account.

Fund a Health Savings Account

HSAs are funded with pre-tax dollars, like traditional IRAs and 401(k)s. Withdrawals can be taken at any time, and they're tax-free as long as they're used to pay for qualified medical expenses. Any money not used immediately can be invested, just like in an IRA or 401(k). If withdrawals are taken for non-medical purposes, they will be subject to a 20% penalty.

However, once the contributor reaches the age of 65 funds can be accessed for any reason without being penalized. At that point, your HSA can serve as a general retirement savings account.

This is not a comprehensive list of retirement vehicles but certainly a great place to start. Everyone, as early as possible, should start contributing to one of the above. Speak with your financial planner or accountant for more clarification about which plan is best for you. If you need more info on this visit, the IRS website. Hope this helps in getting started.

Books I Read in 2022

I am an avid reader! I love a good book. Losing yourself in a book to me is the ultimate relaxation, not only that but there are a host of benefits to reading:

• Increases knowledge

• Exercises your brain

• Improves your focus

• Improves your memory

• Entertainment

• Improves your ability to empathize

• Improves your communication skills

• Reduces stress

• Improves your mental health

• Live longer, etc

This year I managed to read 26 books, 12 of which I read together with my book club. I must admit that my time is very different now being a mom and business/practice owner, and while I would have preferred to read all 26 physical books, quite a bit of them were the audio version (thanks audible!) Nevertheless I got it done, still reaped the benefits and developed a newfound love for audiobooks. They are the truth! You can still carry on with your day, do several things and still “read,” it’s amazing. Here’s a round-up of the 26 books I read in 2022 and if one of your goals for 2023 is to read more books, join my book club.

I hope to see you in the book club!

2022 Ultimate Gift Guide

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! I love this time of year, everything gets merry and bright, people are generally nicer and there is that holiday cheer to put us in a great mood. I personally love it because of the gift giving (and receiving) and glorious vacation! I. cannot. wait. for vacation! I am on a somewhat mini vacay as I type this - It is the day after thanksgiving, there’s no work and the house is quiet. So, I have decided to put together a gift guide since they have been so popular on the blog - you all generally like them and find them helpful. So here goes, I hope you find something for yourself, a friend or a loved one.

1. Sparkle-ist Wine Club - This is a great gift for any wine lover you know, or even for yourself. I personally am a sparkle-ist club member and love it! I receive 3 amazing bottles of wine every month from small wineries all over the world. The owner, Lieven is from right here in Washington, DC but as he puts it - he’s a Belgian-born DJ turned bar owner turned fitness entrepreneur, and DC transplant. He is an amazing small business owner and person. That coupled with the fact that you won’t find these bottles in your local grocer or wine and spirits store makes them extra special.

2. Thumbprint Brandy Snifters - For a couple, dad, husband, boyfriend or male co-worker these set of 2 brandy glasses make an amazing gift and they are Tiffany, darling! So classy.

3. Set of 2 Stem Coupes - So dainty and elegant, these stem coupes make beautiful additions to your wine/champagne flute collection. Plus, they pair very well with the wine club membership above.

4. Candles - Such a no-brainer and always a simple yet thoughtful gift. Everyone loves candles, why not treat your loved one with the gift of fragrance to set the mood this holiday season.

5. Caraway Cookware - These make great gifts for the moms or daughters in your life, or for yourself. I got these myself this past Black Friday as my pots and pots were in need of serious overhaul. They have the most fun colors.

6. Cozy Earth Pajamas - If you’ve been reading my blogs for a while, you know of my love for all thing cozyearth. They have the softest, most luxurious and breathable fabrics. I almost have everything in their entire collection. You cannot go wrong with anything they make. I love them so much I give this coupon code to all my family and friends for 40% off their stuff (shh I use it for myself too) code: DR.UNORTHODOC40

7. Yves Saint Laurent Crossbody Bag - Accessories are my favorite statement pieces. I am a jeans and t-shirt with a nice blazer type of girl and a nice purse, jewelry and shoes always tops it off. Make the investment in a nice purse. This is a good one. Pair it with the card wallet too!

8. Cube Molds & Sphere Tray - Great for hubby, dad or a guy friend. I make a mean old fashioned or makers and ginger, hubby loves when I use these in his glass.

9. Designer Sunglasses - Gift me a pair of sunnies any day. They make such a great gift for your bff, sister, mom, dad, hubby, aunt or cousin. Get her chic, fun, classy designer eyewear or cool, sexy sunglasses for him and they’ll love you forever.

10. David Yurman Bracelets - I have a love for Yurman classic pieces, if you haven’t figured that out by now. They are so sophisticated. I love that they look amazing when you mix, match or layer several styles. I personally love pieces from the cable classic collection. These stack well with the oval link bracelet. My husband wears this cable cuff and this spiritual bead bracelet all the time and has them in different colors that he switches out based on the color in his outfit.

11. Square Valet Tray - The Square Valet Tray is a gorgeous addition to any entry table, desk, or vanity. Simply drop your keys or watch in it at the end of the day and trust they will be there when you head out in the morning. Perfect to add to your travel set, this valet tray organizer unsnaps and lays flat so you can easily pack it without bulking up your luggage.

12. Paris Baccarat Rouge 540 - Can’t quite think of anything? my go-to will always be perfume (or cologne for men). This is one of my favs right now and it makes a superb gift. My husband’s fav at the moment is Bleu by Chanel. Smells amazing.

13. 2023 Goal Planner - The gift that keeps on giving all 2023 long! Can be gifted to anyone on your list that is goal oriented and loves writing all their dreams and aspirations down.

14. Men’s Manicure Set - The Men's Manicure Set comes with the accessories he always needs, at home or on the road. Includes cuticle cleaner, small and large nail clippers, scissors, nail file, tweezers. Stainless steel construction. Genuine leather case. Case in brown.

15. Molekule Air Purifier - It’s cold and flue season and the cooties are out in full force. get this air purifier for your home (or office) and have peace of mind that your indoor air is free of all allergens. It’s PECO technology destroys SARS-CoV-2 by over 99% in under 1 hour. I have the air pro in my orthodontics practice. Works like a charm.

16. Foreo ISSA 3 - You knew it was coming, no gift guide is complete without oral care goodies. Gifting great oral hygiene habits is always a great idea.

17. Foreo Luna Mini3 - Self care anyone? I love this brand and have a few of their beauty products. I recently purchased this facial cleanser as i enjoy their gentle but powerful T-Sonic pulsations that deeply cleanse the face and prevent skin problems.

18. Foreo Iris - I got this for myself too recently. It is Ophthalmologist approved as an effective & safe eye care treatment and combines ancient Asian lymphatic-drainage techniques with alternating T-Sonic technology, to refresh & depuff tired eyes, while gently massaging and soothing the eye contour.

There you have it, 18 amazing gift ideas this season. I hope you see something you love for yourself or will gift to someone. Happy holidays! and happy shopping friends. Shop early this year, try to beat the holiday rush and avoid shipping delays.

Electric Toothbrush Round-Up

The holidays are among us and it is a time of year that is for togetherness, family, spreading holiday cheer and gift giving! I have started a tradition of putting together gift guides this time of year. In 2021 these were among the most popular posts on the blog so I am back again with the guides this year. Seeing that I am an Orthodontist, no gift guide of mine is complete without oral care goodies and it just so happens that some of my favorite oral care brands are having major sales this holiday season. I have rounded up a few electric toothbrush options for you and linked them below. Not only are the items up to 50% off but you can save additionally with my coupon codes. Click through for the savings. They make great stocking stuffers!

• Goby - I love Goby’s electric toothbrushes and even carry them in my practice. Every new patient gets a goodie bag with oral care goodies along side a brand new Goby toothbrush. This holiday they are having a great sale on their brush kits. 15% off 2 brush kits, 20% off 3 brush kits. In addition to that you can take an extra $10 off your order with code: UNORTHODOC10. They make great Christmas gifts.

• Foreo - If you missed it, I gave a detailed review of Foreo’s ISSA collection here. It is a swedish beauty brand that has made their way into oral care - they really are a self-care brand in my opinion. Having their products is like taking the spa home with you - all their products are luxurious, high-end, high quality, promotes taking care of your body and are backed by science and technology. I had the pleasure trying their entire line of oral care products, their ISSA collection. The ISSA 3 for adults, the ISSA kids for children ages 5-12yrs and the ISSA baby for ages 0-4yrs. They are having up to 50% off their entire line this holiday season. They make great, luxurious gifts! This link gets you the deals.

• Quip - If you’ve known me for a while you know I really like quip toothbrushes and their super stylish and sleek designs. Quip is a travel essential for me. I keep the quip toiletry bag with quip goodies including an electric toothbrush, tooth paste, floss pick, and mouth wash in my suitcase! They are having 50% off site wide on their toothbrushes.

• Burst - I personally love the rose gold burst products and the sleek design of their toothbrush and water flosser. I recommend these to my patients all the time! They have this really nice berry color that you can only get when you use a code. They are having 50% off right now but you can get an extra $10 off when you use code: SSNQED at checkout.

• Bitvae - Budget friendly electric toothbrush! Bitvae’s electric toothbrush is designed to improve our customers' oral health with smart products accessible to all. The price point is the best in the industry. Use code: 30patrice for 30% off the already low price.

I just love the holidays for all the gift giving and receiving! Did I tell you I gave quip kits as wedding favors? (along with some other really nice things). True story. The dentist in me had to do it.

Happy shopping!

This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission when you click the links.

Foreo ISSA Collection: Luxury For Your Mouth

As a dentist (Orthodontist), I get very excited when I am introduced to any new and revolutionary dental product. Every now and then oral care brands send me items to try, have my patients try and give my feedback. One of these said companies is Foreo (pronounced for-ray-oh).

Foreo is a swedish beauty brand that has made their way into oral care - they really are a self-care brand in my opinion. Having their products is like taking the spa home with you - all their products are luxurious, high-end, high quality, promotes taking care of your body and are backed by science and technology.

I had the pleasure trying their entire line of oral care products, their ISSA collection. The ISSA 3 for adults, the ISSA kids for children ages 5-12yrs and the ISSA baby for ages 0-4yrs. I have been using them for roughly 6 months now and gave my husband, my 10yr old niece and my 16 month old baby each an age appropriate Foreo toothbrush to try as well.

I will go over the key features of each then give my feedback and a surprise at the end so be sure to read all the way through:

FOREO ISSA 3

The ISSA3 is the version for adults. There is also a mini version, which is small and compact and easily fits in your pocket. I like the ISSA mini3 for travel. I throw it in my toiletry bag and take it on-the-go when I am on the road. Key features:

• Manual toothbrush with electric toothbrush benefits

• Sonic pulse technology

• Hybrid wave brush head for teeth, cheeks and tongue

• USB charge that lasts up to 365 days

• Medical grade silicone

• PBT polymer bristles

• 16 speeds/intensities

• Waterproof

TOOTHBRUSH SPECIFICS & IMPRESSIONS

●  4-IN-1 COMPLETE ORAL CARE FOR TEETH, GUMS, CHEEKS & TONGUE

The ISSA3 is designed with an innovative hybrid brush head that offers an invigorating tooth clean and gentle gum massage, as well as a tongue and cheek cleaner on the back. This toothbrush has clinically proven to reduce plaque and improve overall oral health by 140%.

●  16 SPEEDS OF SONIC PULSE TECHNOLOGY

The sonic pulse technology offers 16 speeds/intensities. Basically this means that the toothbrush is offering an effective clean as you manually move it across all the surfaces of your teeth. This makes the ISSA3 the most personalized brushing experience on the market.

●  NATURAL MANUAL GESTURE, ELECTRIC BRUSH RESULTS

Unlike other electric toothbrushes on the market,  ISSA3 does not require you to change your brushing style, it just makes it better, healthier and more effective - so you get all the benefits of an electric toothbrush without any of the extra effort.

●  ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS

In a continued effort to be more eco-friendly, ISSA3 is USB rechargeable, and its innovative Hybrid Wave brush head lasts for up to 6 months before it needs to be replaced (twice as long as other electric toothbrush heads on the market). If you have sensitive teeth, you’ll be happy to know you can also use an ISSA Sensitive brush head made of 100% medical-grade silicone, which lasts up to 1 whole year!

●  SMART SWEDISH DESIGN

The combination of medical grade silicone and PBT polymer bristles makes the Issa3 10,000 times more hygienic than nylon bristled brushes. It is 100% waterproof and free of BPA & phthalates for health and safety. It lasts up to 365 days on a single USB charge, with a travel lock and case for ease on-the-go; and features a built-in timer, and a brush head that lasts up to 6 months before it needs to be replaced for ultimate convenience.

PRICE POINT

The Issa 3 ranges from $139-$189 USD $79-$99 when you use this link to access and take advantage of their Black Friday Sale!

FOREO ISSA KIDS

The ISSA Kids is the version for children between the ages of 5-12yrs old, the period when they are exfoliating teeth (changing from baby teeth to adult teeth) and becoming more independent brushers.

• Designed for kids ages 5-12yrs old

• Sonic pulse technology

• Hybrid wave brush head for teeth, gums and cheeks

• USB charge that lasts up to 265 days

• Medical grade silicone

• 16 speeds/intensities

• Built-in Timer

• Glee and Glum Smile helpers

TOOTHBRUSH SPECIFICS & IMPRESSIONS

• HYBRID BRUSH HEAD & COMPLETE 360° CLEAN

While the toothbrush bristles clan the teeth, the concentric ridges on the back of the brush head clean cheeks and tongue, for a full mouth-clean. Each replaceable brush head lasts up to 6 months.

• SONIC PULSE TECHNOLOGY & BACTERIA-RESISTANT SILICONE

The kids version gives 9,000 pulsations per minute for gentle cleaning and gum massage and is made of ultra-hygienic, medical-grade silicone that is up to 10,000x more hygienic than nylon bristles. 

• LIGHT INDICATORS & EASY CHARGING

Because kids need all the help they can get when it comes to brushing, the indicator light flashes to indicate when to move to a new quadrant of the mouth & when to charge. The toothbrush is charged via USB which makes it convenient to charge anytime, anywhere.

• GREAT HELP FOR PARENTS

ISSA kids is an ideal toothbrush for children aged five and over, rewarding great brushing habits. Along with a built-in timer, it features “Glee” (happy) and “Glum” (sad) face symbols. “Glee” smile symbol comes to life after two minutes of brushing and “Glum” sad face symbol indicates that the little brusher has not brushed for 12 hours. This is an amazing feature to encourage good brushing habits.

PRICE POINT

The cost of the Issa kids is $129 USD $69 during their Black Friday Sale, use this link to access.

FOREO ISSA BABY

The ISSA baby is the baby version and is fantastic for little brushers ages 0-4yrs.

• Designed for kids ages 0-4yrs old

• Sonic pulse technology

• Hybrid wave brush head

• USB charge that lasts up to 240 days

• Medical grade silicone

• 16 speeds/intensities

• Built-in Timer

• Glee and Glum smile helpers

TOOTHBRUSH SPECIFICS & IMPRESSIONS

• SAFE SWEDISH DESIGN

The ISSA baby gives 6,000 delicate pulsations per minute for gentle cleaning  and gum massage; this is gentle enough for even the most sensitive teeth and gum. The indicator light flashes to indicate when to move to a new quadrant of the mouth & when to charge. The long-lasting battery lasts up to 240 days per single charge

• GREAT HELP FOR PARENTS

Thanks to Smile Helpers and two smart Brushing Modes, ISSA baby makes teaching children to brush – fun. ISSA baby is safe and effective: this is the only electric toothbrush for babies to combine silicone bristles with gentle sonic pulsations.

• BEFORE AND AFTER THE 1ST TOOTH

Kids 0-6 months: even before any teeth appear, using ISSA baby will reduce bacteria in the mouth by clearing away food fragments and residue while soothing baby's teething pain.

Kids 6 months through 4 years old: precise cleaning of baby teeth by covering each tooth separately from all angles, while gently massaging sensitive gums to soothe irritation.

PRICE POINT

The cost of the Issa baby is $109 USD $59.95 during their Black Friday Sale when you use this link.

THE VERDICT

I am very impressed with the ISSA Collection for it’s innovation. There is nothing like it on the market. A few of my favorite features are the use of medical grade silicone which makes the toothbrush hygienic, the fact that is is waterproof so that it can be used in the shower, the fact that the brush head only needs changing twice per year and of course, the “Glee and Glum” light up feature for helping kids with healthy brushing habits.

Using the ISSA 3 has not personally changed my brushing habits but has afforded a much better clean than a manual toothbrush due to the sonic pulsations. My niece who’s ben using the ISSA kids loves the fun, vibrant color of her toothbrush, the Glee and Glum smile helper feature and the pulsations. She says it reminds her of getting a cleaning at the dentist. My 16 month old is infatuated with the gentle pulsations and gum massage which I believe is soothing to him as he teethes. It introduces him to an interesting sensation that he has not experienced before. I believe that the pulsations of the ISSA baby toothbrush will help little ones get used to the vibration of the dental hand-piece that will help with alleviating any of the dental anxiety that kids sometimes experience when going to the dentist.

SURPRISE SALE!

I mentioned in the beginning that the ISSA brand is very high end, high quality and is considered a beauty luxury brand. I have several of their products, not only toothbrushes and I enjoy using them for my skincare and self care needs. Because they are so luxurious they make amazing gifts, I know I am grabbing a few items for friends this holiday season. For a limited time they are offering up to 50% off their devices for Black Friday! This is a pretty big deal since their products rarely go on sale. If you’ve been eyeing something from their line, now would be a great time to grab them. Visit the FOREO site using this link to access the sale. This special pricing ends December 4th, 2022.

How To Smash Your Goals in 2023

The last several years taught us a lot about uncertainty, to the point where now we probably have gotten used to plans changing on a whim or at least a bit more comfortable with variability. Nevertheless, the beginning of a new year is a hopeful time. It is often a time where we daydream and envision our ideal future and motivate ourselves to turn our vision of this future into reality by reaching and smashing our goals.

My method of goal setting remains the same, but I wanted to add a few specifics this time around:

1.START WITH A YEAR REVIEW 

I know this might seem like a lot of work, but it’s worth your time. Don’t stress, just be honest with yourself. If you had a planner last year, just look back through the months and assess everything without judgment. The easiest way to do this review is by answering these 5 questions: 

1. Identify 3 to 5 things that made you proud from 2022

2. If you set goals for 2022, how far did you get?

3. Identify what worked well, what didn’t work and why

4. Are there things you would like to improve, start or stop doing?

5. What are some of the lessons you learned last year that you want to keep moving forward?

2. PRIORITIZE YOUR GOALS

Now that you’ve done your year review, identify the top priority areas that you want to work on whether it is career, finances, health, relationships, etc. It could be all of the above, but pinpoint specific things in each category to work on. Remember, this is not about anyone else but YOU. This is personal.

3. WRITE YOUR GOALS DOWN

A sure way to make things happen is to write it down. It sounds strange, but there is enormous power in putting things down on paper, and according to research you become 42% more likely to achieve your goals and dreams when it’s written. I always keep a physical (paper) planner even though I use the planner on my smartphone as well.

4. BUILD A SYSTEM AROUND ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS

This is where we sometimes lose focus. We may know what goal(s) we want to accomplish but before putting action steps into place they are intentions. Right now the steps in how to accomplish your goals might be blurry, let’s turn them into action:

5. MAKE YOUR GOALS S.M.A.R.T.E.R

So how exactly do you set intentions that you will actually stick to? Be SMART about it. But this year, I want us to be SMARTER.

Before you set a goal, first figure out your “why.” By figuring out and articulating the reason you want to achieve something you are more likely to remain motivated to stick to it.

S - Small and Specific: What do you want to do? Break your goals into smaller, more specific ones. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier in 2022, be more specific by making it about adding 1 fresh fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water per day for the month of January.

M - Measurable : How will you track your progress? All your goals must be measurable, that means you should be able to describe the physical manifestation of the outcome of your goal. Example, losing 2lbs per week by adding one fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water to our diet each day.

A - Attainable: How will you do it? Is your goal attainable? Can you realistically achieve your goal? Another great way to stay on track is to find an accountability partner. Example, someone who will check in to make sure you had your fruit/vegetable each day or someone who will ensure you meal prep.

R - Relevant: Is this relevant to your life right now? Is this goal relevant to you or even realistic? Ensure you’re not setting a goal that you really don’t care about and hence not realistic. Example, I dislike running. If I make it a goal of mine to incorporate running 1 mile/day I know I will fail. Instead, I ensure I get my cardio in by getting on the elliptical, peloton or taking a Zumba class.

T - Timely: When do you want to do it? Make a tentative plan for everything you do. Don’t just make it a goal to exercise once per day. You know your schedule, you know if you’re a morning or late night person. Instead of saying you will work out once per day, say you will work out at 5:30am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for 1 hour before work.

E - Evaluate: How is it going? If you’re not tracking your progress how will you know what’s the cause of you not getting those killer abs? At the end of the month, go back through your planner and see if you stuck to the plan to reach your goal. 1. Did you meal prep every week for the past month? 2. Did you in fact incorporate 1 fruit/vegetable and a bottle of water to your diet each day for the month? Did you work out 3 times per week for the month? It’s okay if you missed a day or two (you’re a work in progress).

R - Readjust: How can you make it better? If you missed the mark in some areas last month =, you can make adjustments to improve next month. 3 days per week at 5:30am didn’t work for you? Maybe try Monday morning at 6am before work, Wednesday evening at 6pm after work and Saturday afternoon. Readjust until you hit your sweet spot.

6. TRACK YOUR PROGRESS, REFLECT AND RE-CALIBRATE

Resist the urge to freestyle your goals and actually check your progress as you go along. At the end each month, take time out to analyze what you have achieved, what you failed to achieve and how to improve on this (last 2 steps above). Journaling as you go along and circling back at the end of each month can really help you to stay on track.

7. ADJUST TO LIFE’S LEMONS

Life gets in the way and can derail you. Things such as illness, family commitments, work, life emergencies etc can impact your goals. Take note of these things and adjust as you proceed. 

8. ASK FOR HELP

Lastly, get an accountability partner. Have a friend or loved one you can lean on  for moral support and encouragement, you will need it from time to time. If you need specific help, reach out to those who can offer any guidance or assistance. The internet and social media is a great way to make connections.

Bonus: Be your own D**n Cheerleader and eliminate self doubt. Figure out what keeps you motivated and inspired. I love quotes! I keep them everywhere - my phone’s wallpaper, sticky notes around the house, on my desk at work, on the bathroom mirror, etc. I listen to music, books and podcasts that are uplifting. I tolerate no negativity and try to stay away from it at all costs.

Remember, a goal without a plan is just a wish. By breaking down your goals into bite-sized, manageable actions and writing them down, setting goals and intentions for the new year that you can actually stick to becomes a much easier process.

Grab a planner, a journal and let’s get ready to smash our 2023 goals! Remember, a sure way to make things happen is to write it down.

A Guide To Setting SMART Goals

Sometimes we set goals and then fall short, that’s okay. Everyone fails from time to time – it’s part of life’s journey. But if you find yourself consistently not reaching or giving up on your goals, it’s time to find a new way to set your intentions.

The value of setting goals in life cannot be overstated. We need to feel like we’re working toward a goal to ultimately feel fulfilled and joyful in life. But are all goals created equal? Not necessarily. The outcomes you want ultimately point to the quality of the objectives you’re setting for yourself – and if you’re not using SMART goals, you could be holding yourself back

MAKE YOUR GOALS S.M.A.R.T

So how exactly do you set intentions that you will actually stick to? Be SMART about it.

Before you set a goal, first figure out your “why.” By figuring out and articulating the reason you want to achieve something you are more likely to remain motivated to stick to it, rather than it being something you think you should do.

S - Small and Specific: Break your goals into smaller, more specific ones. For example, if your goal is to eat healthier in 2023, be more specific by making it about adding 1 fresh fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water per day for the month of January. Do you want to make more money this year? Saying you “want to earn more” is too vague. Instead, pick a number for how much money you want to earn. Is it $150,000 per year, $500,000 or even $1 million? Set a clear number to track your progress against. Having a specific goal is helpful in two ways: you can better visualize your outcome – imagine all those zeroes in your bank account – and you will know without a doubt when you’ve achieved it.

M - Measurable : All your goals must be measurable, that means you should be able to describe the physical manifestation of the outcome of your goal. Example, losing 2lbs per week by adding one fruit or vegetable and a bottle of water to our diet each day. Or, in the case of making $150,000 per year you can check the numbers as the year goes on to see if you’re reaching the goal.

A - Attainable and Accountability: Is your goal attainable? Can you realistically achieve your goal? Another great way to stay on track is to find an accountability partner. Example, someone who will check in to make sure you had your fruit/vegetable each day or someone who will ensure you meal prep. If it’s to make $150,000 do you have the potential to even earn that income (switching jobs, salary increase, unique skills, side hustles, etc). When you create a goal that’s too lofty, it can seem impossible. You may be overwhelmed and eventually give up.

R - Relevant and Realistic: Is this goal relevant to you or even realistic? Ensure you’re not setting a goal that you really don’t care about and hence not realistic. Example, I dislike running. If i make it a goal of mine to incorporate running 1 mile/day I know I will fail. Instead, I ensure I get my cardio in by getting on the elliptical, bike or taking a Zumba class. Realistic goals are those that you are willing and able to work toward that can be achieved by improving your current habits.

T - Timely: Make a tentative plan for everything you do. Don’t just make it a goal to exercise once per day. You know your schedule, you know if you’re a morning or late night person. Instead of saying you will work out once per day, say you will work out at 5:30 each morning for 1 hour before work/school. Do you think you can start earning your desired salary in six months, one year or two years? Having a clear time frame is essential for checking your progress along the way to reaching your goal.

Because of their effectiveness, SMART goals are commonly used in business, but you can also use them in your personal life, from creating fulfilling relationships to mastering a new skill. No matter which area of your life you want to improve, this tested strategy saves you the wasted time of not knowing precisely what you want or how to get it. SMART goals can help you “ladder up” to the bigger goals you set when you identify your purpose. Being purposeful and living with intention is what SMART goals are all about.

HOW TO ACHIEVE SMART GOALS

Now that we’ve answered the question “what is a SMART goal?” let’s look at a few tips for achieving them.

START SMALL

Instead of tackling your most urgent or loftiest goal pick something small to start with.

WRITE IT DOWN

According to a study conducted at the Dominican University in California, those who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. It doesn’t matter whether you write your SMART goals in a journal, enter them into an app or type them into a Word document. Just make sure they are documented.

CHECK-IN REGULARLY

How long will it take you to reach your SMART goals? How do you know if you’re falling off track? Regular check-ins allow you to evaluate your progress and course-correct when necessary.

DON’T LET FEAR HOLD YOU BACK

If you’re not making the progress you’d like, take a look at what’s holding you back. Are you hesitant because your goal or approach is unreasonable, or are you reticent because of a deep-seated fear of failure? Finding the source of your hesitation is critical, since overcoming our fears is pivotal to goal mastery as well as personal and professional development.

CELEBRATE EVERY WIN

When you celebrate wins – even the small ones – your brain gets a boost of dopamine that reenergizes and refocuses you. If you’re working on professional SMART goals, celebrate small wins with your team. Not only will this help you to continue to press forward but it will also inspire your team to do the same. Personal successes? Celebrate with your friends or family. After you’ve celebrated, get right back on track so you can work toward celebrating the next win.

Start Making Money Online Full-Time or Part-Time in 4 Actionable Steps

This is a guest post by Marjorie Jones

The search for new and flexible ways to make a living begins differently for everyone. Perhaps you are out of work, looking to make some money on the side, or simply feel the need for a career change. The modern work climate empowers people from any background to work remotely online in almost any field of choice. Once you know the online money-making options available to you, you will be ready to start the next chapter of your professional life.

1. Evaluate Your Skills and Passions

There are many ways to make money online. Choosing the right path is a matter of assessing your skills and following your unique passions. You will have an easier time committing and succeeding in your new profession if it is relevant to your interests. You might even decide to start an online degree program to foster additional skills that make you more marketable to employers and clients. Some potential online jobs you might pursue can include:

•       E-commerce specialist

•       Web designer

•       Social media manager

•       Freelancer

•       Photographer

•       Virtual assistant

2. Know Where to Find Work

There are potentially millions of work-from-home jobs available online. The biggest roadblock between you and them is knowing where to look. Accepting jobs from prominent online job boards is a great way to get started and earn some experience in your new field of work. Platforms like FlexJobs and Freelancer have many listings, but it's best to cast a wide net across multiple platforms to increase your odds of landing a great gig. Make sure to only use trustworthy websites that verify the legitimacy of job postings before displaying them to users like you.

 3. Start Your Own Business

After finding some initial success with your online work, it may be time to think about establishing a formal business. Even if you are running a relatively small side hustle, registering under an official business structure can benefit you greatly. For example, forming an LLC can grant you tax advantages and limited liability. Your future clients might also take you more seriously if you operate as a legally registered business. Keep in mind that states have different rules regarding the formation of an LLC, but you can use a reputable formation service to ensure you meet compliance.

4. Grow Your Social Media Marketing Efforts

The long-term growth and success of your emerging business depends upon your ability to market your services to as wide an audience as possible. Business experts explain that social media plays a key role in raising brand awareness and customer satisfaction for enterprises of all sizes. You can also use an ad maker tool to spread the word about your business with an easily-customizable Facebook ad template. After making the perfect ad with your company logo and a wide assortment of colors and fonts, you can instantly download it for personal use.

 Remember that social media is not the only aspect of your web presence that contributes to marketing. Starting a blog to work in tandem with your social media is a strong method for driving traffic on two fronts.

Starting a remote work career can be liberating in so many ways. It's a trajectory that can even lead you into the fulfilling role of an entrepreneur. By using online job boards, social media marketing, and other modern career techniques, you can find success in a full-time job or a part-time side hustle.

Visit UnOrthoDoc Candle Co. for hand-crafted and hand-poured candles made from organic wax!

About The Author

Marjorie Jones created Working Class Wow because she knows you don’t need a big budget to make your business look like a million bucks! From a well-designed logo and a carefully-crafted website to grammatically-correct copy and professionally-printed marketing materials, it is entirely possible (and surprisingly affordable) to bring a little “Working Class WOW” to your small business to build your brand, improve relationships with customers, and benefit the bottom line. WorkingClassWow.com can show you how.

Combating The Great Resignation: 6 Crucial Roles of HR in Employee Retention

This is a guest post by Bash Sarmiento

A company's human resource department plays a crucial role in retaining employees. During today's Great Resignation crisis, companies need to understand why people leave their jobs. They should also know how to combat these issues. In this article, we'll discuss the Great Resignation crisis and how HR departments can help prevent it.

What Is the Great Resignation Crisis?

The Great Resignation crisis refers to the voluntary mass resignations that began in late 2020. Several companies have seen a large number of employees quit their jobs at once. In addition to the mass resignations, some individuals have left their jobs without notice or explanation. These people may not have been fired but simply decided to quit.

There are many possible reasons why someone might want to quit their job. Some quit due to dissatisfaction with the work environment or lack of opportunities. On the other hand, it's not uncommon for employees to quit their jobs because they feel they're being treated unfairly or are unhappy with their pay.

Roles of HR in Employee Retention

Due to the Great Resignation crisis, HR professionals need to play an active role in employee retention. They need to help employees find better positions within the company and provide additional training if necessary. Here are some of the crucial roles of HR in employee retention:

Ensure That They Find the Right Candidate for the Job

When recruiting new employees, HR professionals must ensure they hire the right candidate. For instance, if you need tech talent, look for candidates who have experience working with different tech fields. You should also consider hiring people who have worked in similar fields as your current employees. 

In addition, it's not enough to hire someone who meets the minimum qualifications — you need to ensure that they will fit in with the rest of the team. Considering personality, communication skills, and cultural fit when hiring can go a long way toward ensuring you hire the right candidate.  

HR professionals must also guarantee that the candidates have a fair compensation package. Unfair compensations can make candidates lose motivation and even cause them to consider quitting their jobs altogether.

Create an Amazing First Impression

After hiring an employee, you need to make sure that they have an amazing first impression of your company. This is where your onboarding process comes in. Simply letting a new hire start without any training or orientation can be detrimental to their performance later on. They may also feel unprepared and uncomfortable when starting a new job.

Creating a welcoming atmosphere from day one helps build rapport between your company and its employees. This creates a more positive workplace culture, leading to higher productivity and greater engagement. In the long run, it will lessen turnover rates and increase employee satisfaction.

Provide Training and Development Opportunities

Hiring an employee doesn't stop at just finding them a position. You need to provide ongoing training and development opportunities so that they continue learning and growing throughout their time working at your company. Employees like to grow professionally and learn new skills. Providing opportunities to do so makes them happy and keeps them engaged.

A good way to provide development opportunities is to set long-term goals. Long-term goals help with motivation and encourage employees to keep progressing and developing their skills. 

Encourage Open Communication Among the Team

Open communication is another crucial part of an engaging workplace. When people feel comfortable sharing ideas and opinions, it can help increase employee retention rates. As an HR professional, it's your responsibility to check whether employees are experiencing any problems with their work environment.

Set regular schedules to ask questions and address issues. Let them bring up any concerns they might have. Doing so can help create a productive and healthy workplace. If any negative situations are occurring, you can take action by addressing these problems.

Acknowledge Your Employees' Achievements

Acknowledging your employees for the little things they do goes a long way. For example, if an employee has completed a project successfully, let them know about it. Doing this shows that you value their contributions.

In addition, you can conduct performance reviews once every few months. During these meetings, highlight all your team members' accomplishments. It will also be an excellent time to bring up any areas of improvement for a specific employee. These discussions can help improve morale and foster a sense of teamwork among your staff.

Learn Why Employees Leave Their Jobs

HR professionals have a crucial role in helping companies retain their best talent. As such, it's important to understand why employees leave their jobs. Once you identify the reasons behind a departure, you'll be able to better prepare for future resignations.

Remember to conduct exit interviews to know the reason behind an employee's resignation. Ask departing employees about their experience while on the job and what led them to resign. By doing so, you can gain valuable insight into how to make your workplace even better.

The Bottom Line

The Great Resignation Crisis has led many companies to look for ways to reduce employee turnover. HR professionals have an important role in helping create a positive work environment that encourages employees to stay longer. The responsibilities stated above are just some of the many ways you can create a great workplace culture. By implementing these strategies, you can help ensure that your employees will remain with your company for a long time. 

Meet Bash Sarmiento

Bash Sarmiento is a writer and an educator from Manila. He writes laconic pieces in the education, lifestyle and health realms. His academic background and extensive experience in teaching, textbook evaluation, business management and traveling are translated in his works.

Find him on Instagram and LinkedIn

5 Books By Women Authors Every Leader & Entrepreneur Should Read

I love a good book! Books have the unique ability to open you up to a whole new world, to increase your knowledge on a certain topic, to educate, inform, increase your memory, communication skills, and sometimes to simply whisk you away to another reality. I have made it a habit to read at least one book per month, at the very minimum 12 books per year. Last year I read 14 books and I always learn something for every read.

I have read at least 15 books so far this year, including these 5 books that I think every leader and/or entrepreneur ought to get their hands on. Being somewhat of a serial entrepreneur and leader in my own right, these books have been helping me tremendously in business. I hope they will do the same for you.

If you love books as much as I do, consider joining my book club. Each month I hand select a book, we all read (or listen via audible) and meet over zoom for a little coffee & conversation or booze & books, whatever the occasion calls for. It is not just a book club, but an opportunity to build our network and form some meaningful relationships.

Happy reading!

Revive Your Soul: Ideal Places to Plan a Reset Trip

This is a guest post by Marjorie Jones

If you feel like you are in an endless cycle of stress or burnout, you are not alone. In the U.S., the majority of Americans admit to feeling stress. There are various reasons for it, including anxiety over finances, healthcare, climate, and violence. If you need a break from the hustle and bustle, it might be time to take a self-care "reset" trip. 

 Palm Springs, California

First, you must ask yourself, can you afford to vacation anywhere? Most people have to put together a budget. However, understanding your finances and how to reach your financial goals by doing something you love can help you make plans to hit up Palm Springs, California.

 Palm Springs is a popular resort destination. You can spend your days lounging by the pool or head to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. The city has museums, botanical gardens, and plenty of outdoor activities to take part in. Take in breathtaking views at the Tahquitz Canyon, a waterfall tucked into a canyon.

 Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has a breathtaking landscape and a thriving town. At night, experience the stars above the canyons or live entertainment downtown. You can even check out the UFO tour and share some of the anomalies in the night sky.

Traveling to Sedona provides you with a break from everyday life while blending beautiful Arizona nature with a lively town full of museums, dining, bowling, and other recreation.

 If you fall in love with Sedona, consider a vacation home in the city. Remember that purchasing a vacation home requires a substantial downpayment of 20% or more. If you struggle to afford that much, you could take a second mortgage out on your house or use a home equity loan to purchase the property.

 Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a diverse city. While your first impression may be the towering skyscrapers and shopping district, you will also notice the surrounding mountains, many parks, and fresh Washington air. In Seattle, many people find themselves at the Seattle Center, checking out the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture.

 Outside of Seattle, you can see Mt. Rainier and visit various wilderness parks with hiking, backpacking, camping, swimming, and other outdoor recreational activities. When you find yourself hiking on one of the many trails surrounding the Seattle area, you might feel a complete shift in your mood. Experts explain that spending time outdoors can reduce your anxiety and give you a moment to breathe and relax at the moment.

 Houston, Texas

While in Houston, you can enjoy various outdoor recreational activities to soothe your mind and calm your soul. Additionally, there are parks, museums, walking tours, and tea parties to entertain yourself with.

 Look for discounted tickets online if you want to snag a deal on Astros tickets. You can filter the tickets by price, date, range, and seat rating. Some sellers offer an interactive seating chart for a 360-degree virtual in-seat view.

 Sometimes, you must break away from everyday life and do something for yourself. Your mental health matters and can impact your physical health and your ability to function in your day-to-day life. You should feel refreshed when you return home from a "reset" trip.

About The Author

Marjorie Jones created Working Class Wow because she knows you don’t need a big budget to make your business look like a million bucks! From a well-designed logo and a carefully-crafted website to grammatically-correct copy and professionally-printed marketing materials, it is entirely possible (and surprisingly affordable) to bring a little “Working Class WOW” to your small business to build your brand, improve relationships with customers, and benefit the bottom line. WorkingClassWow.com can show you how.

How Does Digital Marketing Improve Your Business?

Most, if not all, companies rely on marketing to capture audience attention. From catchy songs and phrases to beloved characters, businesses utilize many tactics to promote products and services that they hope consumers will purchase. 

Marketing helps to build brand awareness and brand loyalty, capture new customers, and secure existing ones. As of late, companies have embraced digital marketing to reach consumers. Since most individuals and businesses rely on technology to perform daily functions, it only makes sense that companies would mobilize this space. 

If you are a business owner, having a strong digital marketing strategy can be beneficial. Digital marketing can be a cost-effective way of optimizing your performance in a competitive marketplace. Let’s take a closer look at some of the ways digital marketing can help improve your business. 

Digital Marketing Is Cost-Effective 

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of digital marketing is that it is a cost-effective strategy compared to some traditional promotional activities. 

Mailers and billboards are much more expensive than digital ads, for example. With digital marketing, you do not have to worry about paper costs, stamps, signage, or manpower. Furthermore, with just a few simple clicks, you can launch an ad in seconds and reach a wide audience for a nominal fee. 

Depending on the size of your business, you may have limited resources to spend on marketing, so this can be a good way to expand your reach without breaking the bank. 

It Helps to Build Strong Relationships with Consumers 

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words. This certainly rings true in the digital marketing space. 

Think about all the times you’ve scrolled through your social media feed. How many times have you seen brands and businesses advertise their products or services using a single, impactful photo? Photos can be a powerful way of sharing your story as a business owner. They have the potential to evoke a strong emotional response from consumers and generate business based on that intense pull. 

On Instagram, for example, you can upload a photo in seconds. You have the option to include a short message, if you wish, to add additional context or embed links to draw people to your website. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok provide an easy pathway to connect with customers in new, fresh, and meaningful ways. With minimal effort and cost, you can cast a wide net and build strong connections. 

It Can Help to Improve Your Market Presence 

With digital marketing, you tend to utilize a lot of different pathways to share your brand story, products, and services with new and existing customers. You also tend to update and post new information more routinely than you would as compared to some traditional forms of marketing. The updates are more instantaneous. Rather than a one-time, static marketing tactic, digital marketing is fluid and constantly evolving. 

As such, your business may perform better in online searches. Many search engines prioritize websites and other platforms that refresh content regularly. Paying close attention to certain keywords can help boost your business to the top of these search engines, as well. 

The closer you are to the top of the list of search results, the more likely prospective customers are to click on your links and explore your offerings. Your visibility increases, which can ultimately generate new growth and revenue. 

It Helps to Even the Playing Field 

Traditionally, when it came to marketing, larger companies often had an advantage. These businesses would have the manpower and the material resources to promote their services in many ways. This was not always true for the smaller, less-resourced companies. When it came down to it, the marketing efforts just didn’t compare. 

However, digital marketing has helped even out the playing field. It provides a platform for all businesses, large and small, to reach people all over the world quickly and efficiently. The size of the business doesn’t matter as much since the same tactic is being employed to capture the attention of a global audience. 

It Helps to Reach Mobile Customers More Easily 

Most people nowadays have a phone with internet capabilities. With digital marketing, you can reach people and promote information in a mobile capacity. People can browse your website, scour your social media feeds, and view your digital advertisements all from the palm of their hand. 

If someone is not in front of a computer or tablet or does not own such a device, it is not as much of a barrier as it used to be with the introduction and widespread use of these handheld technologies. 

Conclusion 

A strong digital marketing strategy from a company like Evestar can help to improve your business in many ways. It is a cost-effective scheme to help expand your reach, grow your online presence, foster strong relationships with customers, and engage in a more competitive business scene. 

A Healthier Mouth With These Three Things from Smile Brilliant

You may recall in the past I reviewed Smile Brilliant's custom-fitted whitening system and was quite pleased with the results. My sister wore the whitening trays for a bit over 2 weeks and was happy with her visibly whiter smile.

Smile Brilliant

Custom fitted whitening system that you can safely do at home. Photos to the left taken two weeks apart.

Whenever an oral care company is founded and run by oral care professionals, it automatically increases my trust in them. Smile Brilliant was founded by a team of dental professionals who saw a need in the marketplace to decrease the amount of trips to the dental office, for whitening products and services in particular. They have a lab-direct process which makes achieving professional results at an affordable price pretty easy. In the last few years, they've taken this model and expanded their line of oral health products to include something for everyone - from the newest in the cariPRO line - a cordless water flosser that allows for easy and effective cleaning, to a custom night guard system to protect the teeth from nighttime grinding.

I have had the opportunity to use and test some of their products over the last several weeks and offer my honest feedback as both a consumer and a dental professional. The items I will be reviewing are their electric toothbrush, water flosser, plaque highlighter and dental probiotics. Here’s my breakdown:

TOOTHBRUSH HIGHLIGHTS

Their cariPRO electric toothbrush has some really impressive features that are unique to the brand and in my opinion, gives a dentist-style clean. Some highlights include:

2 - 4 replacement brush heads

Built-in timer and pacer for brushing

Wireless charging dock

60-day money back guarantee

2 year warranty

Free shipping

caripro Electric Toothbrush

SPECIFICS & IMPRESSIONS

• 40,000 vibrations/minute

  • This is 10,000 more vibrations than the top electric toothbrushes on the market. I do not know of any other toothbrush that has this many vibrations.

• Five (5) modes, some of which were a bit aggressive for me but I did especially like massage, gum care and sensitive modes. The 5 modes are:

  • clean - for optimal results

  • white - high speed polishing

  • massage - gentle stimulation

  • gum care - timed pulse & gemlike health

  • sensitive - ideal for sensitive teeth

• Waterproof

  • Safe for the shower or bath

• 7 x plaque removal

  • It boasts that it cleans 7 times better than a manual toothbrush and improves gum health within two weeks

• Ergonomic slim design with graphite gray soft-touch grip

  • The design is in line with other electric toothbrushes on the market. However, the graphite grey color and soft-touch grip are unique to their brand.

• One month battery life

  • In line with other electric toothbrush brands

• 2 year Warranty

  • If at anytime during the first 2 years the brush breaks or stops working, they will replace it for you free of charge.

• 60 day money back guarantee

  • You have 2 months in which you can try the toothbrush and if for ay reason you don’t like it, they will happily give you your money back.

CARIPRO Waterflosser

WATERFLOSSER HIGHLIGHTS

As an orthodontist, I recommend water flossers in my practice daily! While they are not a substitute for regular string floss, it is a great addition to your oral care routine. I really enjoyed using the cariPRO water flosser and have been recommending it to my patients. Here are some highlights:

4 floss tips

Auto-interval smart timer

5 hour rapid charge

USB adapter and universal charger

60-day money back guarantee

2 year warranty

Free shipping

SPECIFICS & IMPRESSIONS

• 44-75 psi floss jet

  • Comparable to top waterflossers on the market.

• Three (3) modes: normal, soft and pulse

• 45 second flossing time

  • comparable to top water flossers on the market

• Waterproof

  • Safe for the shower or bath

• 28 day battery life

• 2 year Warranty

  • If at anytime during the first 2 years the brush breaks or stops working, they will replace it for you free of charge.

• 60 day money back guarantee

  • You have 2 months in which you can try the toothbrush and if for ay reason you don’t like it, thy will happily give you your money back. Plaque Highlighters

Plaque Highlighters

How It Works:

These are otherwise known as oral disclosing tablets which temporarily highlight
plaque & tartar build-up for more effective brushing. They are quite nifty in helping to identify where plaque may be hiding so that those areas can be targeted with your toothbrush and water flosser. All you have to do is chew the tablet and wherever there is a concentration of plaque it will be bright pink. brush until the pink color goes away. I love that Smile Brilliant carries these for both adults and kids.

We typically use disclosing tablets for kids because let’s face it, they are not usually the best brushers. The disclosing tablets, once chewed, highlights the areas that has plaque build up so it’s easy to see where to concentrate your brushing. You would usually get these at your dentist’s office but Smile Brilliant carries them not only for kids, but for adults too. If you really want to see how well you’re brushing, these disclosing tablets will tell all the secrets. I haven’t considered using them for myself outside of the dental office, but it’s pretty cool having them at home. I definitely recommend grabbing a few of these plaque highlighters, it’ll help you to brush and floss better.

dental probiotics

Most of us have heard of probiotics for maintaining intestinal (gut) health, but probiotics have actually been shown to be very useful in many areas of the body, for skin care & dental care in particular.  Like other types, dental probiotics shift the balance of the existing bacterial composition (microbiome) toward an increased population of “good bacteria”, improving the overall health & fortitude of the area. What that means for us, is that our mouths are healthier.

Did you know there are over 700 species of both good and bad bacteria that populate our mouths? Our mouths have a diverse ecosystem of bacteria in it. The key to a healthy mouth is maintaining the right balance of bacteria where the “good” bacteria outnumber the “bad” bacteria. The bad bacteria are largely responsible for creating an acidic environment where they thrive. When your mouth becomes very acidic, demineralization, gum inflammation and cavities occur and when there is an overgrowth of said bad bacteria, plaque and biofilm begin to form. A healthy population of good bacteria is the key to creating an oral microbiome that eliminates bad breath, reduces plaque, tartar, cavities and gum inflammation. An added benefit to this is that this protection actually extends to our ear, nose & throat providing immune support & protection against viruses and developing infections. 

Have you ever found yourself wondering why, after doing everything your dentist tells you to do - brush, floss, rinse twice per day and see them for check-ups and cleanings every 6 months, you still have some lingering bad breath and even cavities? It happens to the best of us, and that’s because only 2% of the population actually have naturally occurring “good” bacteria enough to fight bad breath and create a healthy oral microbiome. For the rest of us, there are a myriad of things constantly disrupting our oral microbiome and causing bad breath, some as simple as not using the appropriate mouthwash, dehydration and diet.

BAD BACTERIA versus Good bacteria

The Bad - Bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguis, and hundreds of other species are constantly regenerating and populating the micro crevasses on your teeth and gums. They create a film on your teeth that leads to plaque and tartar. These bad bacteria consume sugar from your food and produce waste in the form of acid and volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). The acid creates cavities and the VSCs cause bad breath.

Lack of brushing, poor quality foods/high sugar, lack of water, and dry mouth can lead to an over-population of bad bacteria.

The Good - Bacteria such as lactobacillus plantarum, streptococcus salivarius, and others fight the bad bacteria. They keep the bad bacteria population under control and keep the oral microbiome in a healthy state.

When you brush with toothpaste or rinse with an alcohol-based mouthwash, you are essentially sterilizing your mouth and that sometimes this kills both good AND bad bacteria. Unfortunately, the bad bacteria tends to grow back fast and often over-populate your mouth before the good bacteria has time to fight. (This is why we often hear stories of people who regularly use mouthwash but still have bad breath)

HOW DO YOU IMPROVE YOUR ORAL MICROBIOME?

Well, the obvious: Brushing your teeth is one of the most important ways to rid your mouth of plaque, tartar and the bacteria that is associated. Flossing, using a tongue scraper and rinsing with a non-alcohol based mouthwash also helps to further eradicate pesky bacteria. However, one thing that has not been historically included in your oral care routine is the use of oral/dental probiotics. Dental probiotics are chewable tablets with concentrated amounts of the healthy bacteria that your mouth needs. It is recommended to be chewed once a day before bed (after brushing, flossing and rinsing). The tablets populate your mouth with good bacteria and leaves less opportunity for the bad bacteria to take hold.

By repeating this process on a daily basis, studies have shown that you can truly change the microbiome of your mouth and increase the population of good bacteria while subsequently reducing the population of bad bacteria. This process is often referred to as Microbiome Rejevenation Therapy or Bacterial Replacement Therapy.

Studies have shown that clinical grade dental probiotics reduce plaque, cavities, gum inflammation and bad breath over brushing and flossing alone. Further, they help improve the upper respiratory immunity in both children and adults.

Giveaway!*

I have personally started using these dental probiotics several weeks ago and can report a noticeable difference with morning breath. I am very excited to share this new addition to my oral care routine and thus will be giving away a 30-day supply of dental probiotics for you to try.

To enter: Go here and come back to this page and leave a comment below about an interesting fact you learned about dental probiotics. I need at least 3 comments to activate this giveaway. You must be 18years or older and reside in the US, Canada or UK. Winner will be chosen one week from the published date of this article.

Don’t want to enter the giveaway but want to try these dental probiotics (or any other product), do so with a discount. Go to Smile Brilliant’s website and enter code: theunorthodoc20 at checkout for 20% off your purchase.

Over $10K Blog Income for June 2022

This month I am on track to make over $10K from blogging. That is, money coming in to do exactly what I would normally do - publish one blog post per month.

When I started this blog I was pretty inconsistent with my posting schedule. When I realized it was directly affecting my SEO (the way it showed up in internet searches) that’s when I decided to put some strategy in and start posting more consistently. For the greater part of 2 years I posted once per week consistently. That greatly improved my ranking in google searches and thus the blog’s visibility. This also strengthened brand’s trust in me. Because of this combination, my blog has been making steady residual income.

I don’t do blog income transparency posts often but when I do, it is to show that blogging can be a lucrative side hustle if that’s what you desire. I did a similar post last summer where my blogging income over 8 months was $12,201.67. Roughly a year later and that 8 month income is close to the monthly income. This is the power of consistency. If this income remains consistent, that will be over $120K/year - a 6 figure income from blogging alone!

I have said this before but it is worth mentioning again, blogging didn’t start out being a money making venture for me (still isn’t the aim) but has been a welcomed side effect of doing what I love to do. When you love something, I mean love it, you don’t see it as work.

It’s why I can get up at 6am work until 8:30am, go to my 9–5 and then work from 6–10pm (if I want to). It’s joyful and I love to do it. Here are some of the benefits of a side hustle you love:

• It’s free therapy

• It gives you clarity

• It builds your confidence

• It gets you motivated

None of those things are about money, the money is a bonus.

If you create something you love regardless of the money, the money feels like you’ve won the lottery.

This month alone (June) my blog is on track to make roughly $10,180.05

My blog makes passive income with affiliate links and sponsored posts. This month alone (June) my blog is on track to make roughly $10,180.05 (this does not include income from my candle company). There are no overhead costs (besides the annual cost to keep the site up and running) and I don’t have to do anything differently. For me, blogging is a good side hustle.

Here is the breakdown:

1. Sponsored posts $6,000.00 - a sponsored post is an article you write on behalf of a company that would like to get in front of your audience. The key for me where this is concerned is to only agree to write such articles when it is a product or service that I have personally used or can get behind.

2. Affiliate links $4,180.05 - On the resources page of this blog I have products and services listed that I have used myself and even carry in my practice. I like giving my patients options especially when it come to oral care products and I extend the same to my readers. When I promote a company’s products as an affiliate I earn a small commission for the referral.

I am not including income from my candle company because it involves putting in extra time. I hand-pour and package each candle that is purchased and it does carry some overhead costs. However, running a candle business is another lucrative side hustle!

Invest in a side hustle.

It’s a way to have a job and do the work you really want to on the side with zero risk. Once the side hustle starts to become a bigger part of your income, you can slowly transition from a job to work you love, if that’s what you want.

I invested a lot of time before and after work to make it happen. I can now say it’s one of the best investments I’ve ever made.

Do this:

Work on a side hustle between 6-10pm. Commit for at least a year. Invest time into learning about online income streams. Experiment until you find your sweet spot.

Here are some Side Hustle blog posts and a Side Hustle Guide to get you inspired. Want to take things a step further? Purchase my e-book: From idea To Profit.

Increase The Good Bacteria in Your Mouth With Dental Probiotics

Did you know there are over 700 species of both good and bad bacteria that populate our mouths?

Our mouths have a diverse ecosystem of bacteria in it. The key to a healthy mouth is maintaining the right balance of bacteria where the “good” bacteria outnumber the “bad” bacteria. The bad bacteria are largely responsible for creating an acidic environment where they thrive. When your mouth becomes very acidic, demineralization, gum inflammation and cavities occur and when there is an overgrowth of said bad bacteria, plaque and biofilm begin to form.

A healthy population of good bacteria is the key to creating a microbiome that eliminates bad breath, reduces cavities and fights gum inflammation.

BAD BACTERIA

Bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus sanguis, and hundreds of other species are constantly regenerating and populating the micro crevasses on your teeth and gums. They create a film on your teeth that leads to plaque and tartar. These bad bacteria consume sugar from your food and produce waste in the form of acid and volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). The acid creates cavities and the VSCs cause bad breath.

Lack of brushing, poor quality foods/high sugar, lack of water, and dry mouth can lead to an over-population of bad bacteria.

GOOD BACTERIA

Bacteria such as lactobacillus plantarum, streptococcus salivarius, and others fight the bad bacteria. They keep the bad bacteria population under control and keep the oral microbiome in a healthy state.

When you brush with toothpaste or rinse with an alcohol-based mouthwash, you are essentially sterilizing your mouth and that sometimes this kills both good AND bad bacteria.

Unfortunately, the bad bacteria tends to grow back fast and often over-populate your mouth before the good bacteria has time to fight. (This is why we often hear stories of people who regularly use mouthwash but still have bad breath)

HOW DO YOU IMPROVE your ORAL MICROBIOME?

Dental probiotics are chewable tablets with concentrated amounts of the healthy bacteria that your mouth needs. It is recommended to be chewed once a day before bed (after brushing, flossing and rinsing). The tablets populate your mouth with good bacteria and leaves less opportunity for the bad bacteria to take hold.

By repeating this process on a daily basis, studies have shown that you can truly change the microbiome of your mouth and increase the population of good bacteria while subsequently reducing the population of bad bacteria.

This process is often referred to as Microbiome Rejevenation Therapy or Bacterial Replacement Therapy.

Studies have shown that clinical grade dental probiotics reduce plaque, cavities, gum inflammation and bad breath over brushing and flossing alone. Further, they help improve the upper respiratory immunity in both children and adults.

Some great dental probiotic options are:

ProBiora

The original dental probiotic - brings your oral biome into balance, addressing the cause of most common teeth and gum issues.

Smile Brilliant

The optimal way to build a healthier oral
microbiome and support ear / nose / throat
immunity!

Burst Oral Care

Contains one of the highest concentrations of BLIS K12TM and BLIS M-18TM available. Studies have shown that these probiotic strains support robust oral health.

Great Oral Health

These chewable oral probiotics are vegetarian, gluten-free, sugar-free and lactose-free with natural flavor. They have no artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners and carries a unique and patented blend of dental probiotics packed with 7 potent strains of probiotics: the BLIS K12 and BLIS M18, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Reuteri, Lactobacillus Salivarius, Lactobacillus Paracasei, Lactobacillus Thermophilus, and Streptococcus Salivarius.

Father's Day Gift Guide

Father’s day is June 19th this year and since my gift guides have become quite popular I have decided to create one for dad, too. Unlike me, my husband will be celebrating his 2nd Father’s Day this year (our son was born at the end of May). I have to admit, growing up my dad always received the cliché dad gifts from me and my siblings - a tie, mug and cheesy DIY card. I always felt like dads didn’t care much about Father’s day until my husband said otherwise. So here we are! I am rounding up a few amazing gift ideas for the dad/father figure in your life.

1. Packing Cubes - Hey, guys like to be organized too when they travel and if he isn’t hip to these yet he will be! ask me how I know.

2. Bose Speaker - My husband loves his bose speaker and takes it with him on vacation, to outdoor family picnics or to just chill in the backyard. It’s great for having your own little personal jam session. It’s loud enough to feel like you’re having a personal party but quiet enough to not disturb your neighbors or beach/vacation mates.

3. Bose headphones - If you’re hubby/dad is a music lover then he will appreciate great quality headphones. Bose has the best ones.

4. Record Player - Such a fun device to have. When hubby is feeling nostalgic he throughs a record on, grab a glass of whiskey, a cigar and vibe out. Great gift.

5. David Yurrman Bracelets - I have a love for Yurman classic pieces, if you haven’t figured that out by now. They are so sophisticated. My husband wears this cable cuff and this spiritual bead bracelet all the time and has them in different colors that he switches out based on the color in his outfit.

6. Ray-Ban Sunglasses - You can never go wrong with a pair of sunnies. These are such a no-brainer and almost anyone looks great in Ray-Ban aviators.

7. Duffel/Weekender Keep All - Really nice and generous gift for hubby, dad or boyfriend. Great to take on weekend trips or to use as a hospital bag (yes, dads pack a hospital bag too). My husband loves his and uses it for short weekend getaways.

8. Tiffany Whiskey Glasses - These brandy snifters made it on my Christmas gift guide last year and I found similar whiskey glasses. These are really simple yet classy gifts for dad. If he drinks he will love these.

9. Cologne - No brainer if you can’t think of anything super unique. My husband’s fav at the moment is Bleu by Chanel. Smells amazing.

10. UnOrthoDoc Candles - The simplest, most thoughtful gift, imo are candles. Everyone loves them and you can find some really great scented ones around. Obviously I am going to recommend my own candle line - Deboniar and Allure are great for any male figure in your life.

11. Wine Chiller - We are now wine lovers and even recently joined a wine club where we get 3 bottles of specialty wine delivered to us every month. We take a bottle with us to friends homes as gifts, to the rooftop when we want to hang out with a view, on picnics etc. Needless to say, we needed a way to keep our wines chilled on out outings and found these.

12. Wine Club Subscription - Is dad/hubby a winer lover? then get him a wine subscription from sparkle-ist. We joined this wine club recently and are obsessed. We get 3 bottles of specialty sparkling wine each month from small family farms around the world. We are having fun discovering and learning about sparkling wine. It is the gift that keeps on giving.

13. Plush Microfiber Robe - Robes are always a great idea. They are super cozy and make really nice gifts for grandpa, dad, uncle, husband or brother. They’ll be wearing it all year round.

14. Electric Toothbrush - The dentist in me will not allow any gift guide to be complete without oral care goodies. Give dad the gift of good oral hygiene. Any electric toothbrush and water flosser is great, these black ones from Burst are really cool.

I hope you see something you love for dad, that father-figure in your life or for yourself. At the very least I hope this gift guide gives you some inspiration this year. Happy shopping!

Starting a Business When You’re the Stay-at-Home Parent

This is a guest post by Marjorie Jones

In many households, being a stay-at-home parent can be more advantageous than employment due to daycare costs, other obstacles, or the simple desire to be more involved in the lives of your younger children. Still, you may feel as though you could be doing more — such as running a business. There are actually many businesses you can operate successfully while being a stay-at-home parent.

Leverage Your Talents and Interests

One of the easiest ways to start a profitable business that doesn’t require too many resources is by using the knowledge you have to teach lessons to others. If you play an instrument, you can offer music lessons. If you paint, you can teach art lessons. Consider that you can also teach lessons online and sell pre-recorded classes.

Being a personal trainer is a great way to make a reliable income without needing to leave your home. You can stream lessons over the Internet to clients working out with weights at home or at their own gyms. This kind of setup also enables you to scale the business to a larger degree.

If you’re knowledgeable about a niche and skilled in writing about it (or writing in general), you can take on clients from the comfort of your own home. Even if you work through a platform that connects you with clients, you can work both online and for local businesses on the side. It’s probably most beneficial to file your taxes through an LLC as an independent contractor.

Set Up Your Business

In order for your business to run smoothly, you’ll need to take some steps to get it set up via paperwork and other factors, so it can operate legally. An LLC offers tax advantages, liability protection, and operational conveniences. This can be done via your state government or proper provincial offices.

When starting out with your stay-at-home business you’ll need to determine how much the business will cost to start and where you’ll get the funding from. You’ll need a comfortable and sufficient workspace somewhere in your house, such as the garage, guest room, or office. Marketing is also a crucial question to figure out, and it’s not a bad idea to start online or use geofencing methods to attract more localized customers.

Get the Ball Rolling

Getting paid requires invoicing clients properly and following up to make sure you receive payments. Your business will probably be on a smaller scale, so up-front payments are probably a good idea. However, there are many tools you can use to make invoicing clients simpler and easier when necessary. This invoice generator will save loads of time and provides several templates you can use for different kinds of businesses. You can also customize different elements of the document by adding logos, photos, or other elements that make identifying and reading them easier for clients and yourself.

A Business Can Change Your Life

If you plan carefully and choose a business niche that works for your circumstances, you can operate a profitable venture that benefits your whole family. Make sure to register your business venture through proper channels and use invoice software to make the process simpler.

For insight and advice from an entrepreneur and mother who’s seen it all, visit The UnOrthoDoc blog.

About The Author

Marjorie Jones created Working Class Wow because she knows you don’t need a big budget to make your business look like a million bucks! From a well-designed logo and a carefully-crafted website to grammatically-correct copy and professionally-printed marketing materials, it is entirely possible (and surprisingly affordable) to bring a little “Working Class WOW” to your small business to build your brand, improve relationships with customers, and benefit the bottom line. WorkingClassWow.com can show you how.

Why Scented Candles Are The Perfect Gift

Finding a gift for someone is a daunting task no matter who is on the receiving end. It takes a lot of thought, time and effort to come up with a perfect gift for a friend, loved one or family member. Candles are a great solution when looking to buy the perfect gift. They are always well received and due to their versatility, there's truly something for everyone.

Here are a few reasons why scented candles are the perfect gift for pretty much anyone.

PROVIDES AROMATHERAPY

Scented candles are great mood boosters as the scent triggers receptors in the brain that are responsible for making us feel positive. They can have a profound effect on our emotional, physical and mental state. Who wouldn't enjoy lighting a candle after a long day and feeling themselves relax and de-stress? Even if not as a gift, it is amazing to get this self-care gift for yourself as well so even you can enjoy the countless benefits of aromatherapy.

COST-EFFECTIVENESS

Scented candles are an amazing choice when you are on a budget and still want to show someone how much you care about them. You can find exceptional quality scented candles ranging from as little as $10 all the way up to $200 (and even more). There is literally a candle to match any budget.

UNIQUENESS

The best thing about scented candles is their diversity of scents. From fruity and sweet to floral and musky and everything in between there's always something for everyone. Our sense of smell is the only sense directly connected to memory and emotions.

LONG-LASTING ENJOYMENT

A good quality unlit scented candle will continue to emit fragrance for many months and even years. Once lit they provide many hours of fragrance, depending on size some can last up tp 50 hours. They are a luxurious addition to any space and will fill it with an amazing smell for you to enjoy for a long time.

SPRUCING UP YOUR SPACE

It's surprising how many people buy candles yet don't light them. Candles have a wonderful ability to add more aesthetic to any space. With their beautiful jars and subtle release of fragrance into a room, they provide a stylish focal point whether lit or not.

This is why they make great presents for others and yourself. You can get many uses out of them.

Burst electric Toothbrush: An Orthodontist's Review

As a dentist (Orthodontist), every now and then oral care brands send me items to try, have my patients try, give my feedback and then write a review. One of these said companies is the BURST, and in this case it’s their electric toothbrush.

If I’m being honest, I initially thought of BURST as one of the latest social media fads. If you have spent any time on social media in the last year or so, then chances are high that you have heard about them from not only dental professionals but a host of “influencers.” I am often wary of items that I notice influencers are all over at the moment. It is no secret that brands pay influencers to drive sales of their products and it can be hard to tell whether the reviews are genuine or if it’s for a paycheck.

As an Orthodontist, I am a fan of electric toothbrushes in general and frequently recommend them to my patients. I am not a brand loyalist so my recommendations usually take into consideration the needs and wants of my patients, their budgets, if the products work and do what they say they will, if the products are from a reputable company and whether I think it’s an overall good product.

toothbrush Highlights

• Subscription service

• Built-in timer and pacer for brushing

• USB charging stand

• 90-day money back guarantee

• Lifetime warranty

• Clinically proven

• Free delivery

Toothbrush Specifics & Impressions

• 33,000 sonic vibrations/minute

  • This is roughly 3000 more sonic vibrations than other popular electric toothbrushes. I found that even though there are more vibrations, it is very gentle regardless of the mode that you brush on. The 3 modes are: whitening mode (full power), sensitive mode ( gentler on gums and teeth than whitening mode), and massage mode (pulsating vibrations).

• Shown to remove up to 10x more plaque than a manual toothbrush

  • Based on Clinical Studies *

• Reduces gingivitis up to 3x more than a manual toothbrush

  • Based on Clinical Studies*

• Tapered multi-length charcoal black bristles

  • These make the brushes stylish but there’s still a lot of debate in the dental community about the abrasive properties of charcoal. Some studies have found that charcoal gives it’s whitening effect by removing a thin layer of enamel, which can be harmful. However, these studies are few and inconclusive. I cannot speak on the effectiveness of having charcoal bristles versus another type, but I can say that the bristles are soft and my teeth felt like I had a professional cleaning at the dentist.

• One month battery life

  • In line with other electric toothbrush brands

• Lifetime Warranty

  • Love this - if at anytime the rush breaks stops working, burst will replace it for you free of charge.

* I downloaded the clinical studies report done by burst and skimmed the 357 page document which showed that this brush indeed did offer a superior clean over manual or comparable electric toothbrushes on the market. Feel free to peruse the study for yourself - Link to download clinical study.

Price POINT

There is a Black, White, Lavender and Rose Gold color option. It is $69.99 for the Black or White color option, $79.99 for the Lavender color option and $99.99 for the Rose Gold color option - all with free shipping. This is a subscription service so replacement brush heads are sent to you automatically (and conveniently) every 12 weeks for $8. Right now with this purchase, whitening strips refill packs are included free of cost (a $14.99 value). In my opinion, this is good value for the price especially when compared to the more popular electric toothbrush brands that will run you anywhere between $100-$300.

The Verdict

Overall, I really like the BURST toothbrush. It is superior to other leading electric brushes in the categories of sonic vibrations/minute which cleans and removes more surface stains a bit better, the lifetime warranty and the price point. Based on this, I agreed to become a dental professional ambassador and recommend their electric toothbrushes in my practice. My patients get the benefit of receiving BURST electric toothbrushes at a discounted price.

If you are interested in purchasing the BURST electric toothbrush for yourself you can also take advantage of special pricing and save by heading to their website and using the code UNORTHODOC at checkout. This will save you roughly 40% on your purchases. If for any reason you aren’t happy with your purchase, they have a 90-day money back guarantee.

PS: At the time the toothbrush was gifted to me, I was not a Burst ambassador. This is my honest review, and I became an ambassador after I read the clinical studies and used the brush myself.