Presidents Day

Did you know that today, February 21st, is Presidents Day?  I bet you did considering that most of you don't have class!  President's Day dates back to the very first president, George Washington.  His birthday is February 22nd and it became a National Holiday in 1832, 100 years after his birth.  This day from then on was celebrated each year, nationally.  Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12th, the year after he was assassinated his birthday also became a holiday (makes you feel bad for President Garfield, Mckinley and Kennedy whom were all assassinated in office but did not receive a holiday).  Lincoln's birthday was celebrated but was not recognized as a "national" holiday like Washingtons.  In 1968 Congress passed legislation that moved all National Holiday to a Monday, to ensure a 3 day weekend (GREAT IDEA).  Washington's holiday was moved to the third Monday of February and in 1971 President Richard Nixon combined Washington's and Lincoln's birthday celebrations, renaming it President"s Day. Finally all the president (including Garfield, McKinley and Kennedy) were recognized.

Even though we, Hansen Orthodontics, did not receive the day off Dr. Hansen was kind enough to treat us to lunch.  We went to one of our favorite office lunch destinations... Qdoba! Thanks for being a great boss Dr. Hansen!

February - Children's Dental Health Month

It's February again... which means that is it Children's Dental Health Month.  To be 100% honest this is my favorite month of the year at work.  Ok ok ok... it's tied for first with July.  July is when we hold our annual Patient Appreciation Pool Party (WHAT A BLAST!).  I love February for a completely different reason.  This month we get to go into local schools and teach 1st-5th graders about braces and the importance of good oral hygiene.  Here at Hansen Orthodontics we all feel that it is very important to teach proper brushing technique from a young age.  Students at that age are developing routines and habits that will stick with them for the rest of their lives... that is why we like to teach them young.

This year we will be seeing anywhere from 700 to 800 students in seven different schools! EIGHT HUNDRED KIDS... WOW! We are so thankful to the schools and teachers that allow us to come in, steal a little class time and teach the students about OH (Oral Hygiene).  Good OH is very important and we make sure in every presentation that the kids know they are supposed to brush and floss 3 times a day, 7 days a week.  Goodie bags with toothbrushes, floss, pencil and activity sheet are handed out as well.

So far this month we have seen 300+ kids in 3 schools.  I cant wait till Friday when we get to visit Heckethorn Elementary!