This Year, Make a New Year’s Resolution to Smile About!

Let’s face it- when was the last time you managed to keep a New Year’s resolution? We at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry believe the key to sticking to a goal is picking one that is both reasonable and attainable. If you haven’t yet picked a New Year’s resolution, consider setting one that will improve your oral health!

For example, resolve to brush twice and floss once a day. Good oral hygiene only takes a few minutes a day, and can make a big difference in your oral health and overall health too! For more oral health-themed resolutions for you and your family, check out this article.

We would love to see what you come up with, share with us by commenting on this post or on our Facebook page. Whatever your New Year’s Resolution, we wish you the very best for 2011!

Beware of those holiday goodies!

Maintaining a healthy diet over the holiday season can prove a difficult task. After all, who can resist the tasty treats of winter baking? With grandma and everybody else offering you candy, chocolate logs or homemade fudge, you just can’t say “I’ll pass” each time. But trouble lurks: every time you chow down on that chocolate or candy, the bacteria in your mouth have a feast on the sugar—at your expense. The sugar turns into acid, and the acid eats away at the enamel on your teeth. Then, you start getting cavities.

Instead, our friends at the American Dental Association recommend nuts or dried fruit, which are a nice alternative to sugars and have a greater nutritional value—and can satisfy your sweet tooth! Both nuts and fruit are a great source of fiber and act as an appetite suppressant. In addition, nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B9, nutrients that contribute to a healthy immune system. Nuts are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked with reducing heart disease and lower blood pressure.

If you must indulge in chocolaty goodness this holiday season, remember to brush your teeth after eating sugary treats. As always, please give us a call if you have any questions!

Is your local playground safe?

Although the weather may be colder this time of the year, we know that doesn't always slow kids down from bundling up in their winter gear and playing outdoors. Playgrounds are everywhere from your backyard to the neighborhood park. It's important to know what safety features to look for before your child hangs out at the local park.

Our staff at Drs. Morrow, Lai & Edwards found some important safety tips on the American Academy of Pediatrics' website that we'd thought we'd share with you today. They include what to look for on a public playground and tips on ensuring your home swing set is functioning properly.

* Carefully supervise young children using playground equipment. Keep children from shoving, pushing, or fighting.

* The surface under playground equipment should be energy absorbent. Use safety - tested mats or loose fill materials (shredded rubber, sand, wood chips, or bark) maintained to a depth of at least 9 inches.

* Install the protective surface at least 6 feet (more for swings and slides) in all directions from the equipment.

* Swing seats should be made of something soft, not wood or metal.

* Children should not twist swings, swing empty seats, or walk in front of moving swings.

* Put home playground equipment together correctly. It should sit on a level surface and be anchored firmly to the ground.

* Cap all screws and bolts. Check periodically for loose nuts and bolts and broken, rusty, or sharp parts.

* Install playground equipment at least 6 feet from fences or walls.

* Check for hot metal surfaces on equipment (in warm months) such as those on slides, which could cause burns.

* Never attach ropes, jump ropes, clotheslines, or pet leashes to playground equipment because children can strangle on them.

We hope these tips help! Here’s to safe and happy holidays, from our entire team at Drs. Morrow, Lai & Edwards!

Write a review for Drs. Morrow, Lai & Edwards!

Dr. Mark Morrow, Dr. April Lai, and Dr. Kerry Edwards are your Tulsa pediatric dentists, offering sedation dentistry and general dental care for children and adolescents. All of our dentists are specialized in pediatric dentistry and have fun working with kids. Have you had a great experience with our doctors and team at Drs. Morrow, Lai & Edwards?

Please share your story!



Just select the “Review Us on Google Places” button above to write a review on our Google Place Page. We look forward to receiving your feedback!

Thank you,

-Drs. Morrow, Lai & Edwards

How to help your kids defeat their fear of visiting the Dentist

Do your kids become increasingly nervous the closer they get to their next dental appointment? Our team at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry understand that many people feel this way and we would like to provide some tips to help your children feel more comfortable on their next visit.

A few topics to discuss with your child:

Let them know that they are not alone
Talk about a time when you had a fear and how you were able to work through it. This will give your son or daughter something they can relate to and hopefully provide them with the courage and strength needed for their dental visit.

Identify their fears
Sit down with your child and discuss what makes them nervous about the dentist. Take note of what your child shares, and then review the list together and think of some ways your child might be able to overcome them.

Talk with Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards
All of our dentists are specialized in pediatric dentistry. It is our goal to create happy, healthy smiles for children. During your child's next visit, sit down with our pediatric dentists and allow your child to discuss their concerns. Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards take these issues very seriously, and by discussing your concerns together we can work towards providing a more comfortable dental experience.

Dr. Morrow, Dr. Lai and Dr. Edwards hope you find these tips useful. Feel free to call our office if you have any questions or concerns.

Happy Thanksgiving, from Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards

Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards and team would like to wish you a safe and happy Thanksgiving. Enjoy a day filled of friends, family, and great Thanksgiving food.

We are very thankful for all of our patients and their families. We'd like to know, what are you most thankful for this year? Leave us a comment, or if you have any stories or pictures to share with us, we encourage you to share them on our Facebook page!

Happy Thanksgiving!

What do you enjoy most about fall?

It’s fall here at Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards, a time when all across the country, the leaves begin to change colors, the air becomes crisp, and families begin to make plans for Thanksgiving.

Today we wanted to ask you, our wonderful patients, "How are you spending your time this fall?" Our team would love to hear about your favorite places for eating, shopping, and entertainment within the Tulsa area. We are interested in learning about what makes your community “yours.”

Feel free to post your responses on our Facebook page, or give us a call!

A day to honor America’s veterans

Have you thanked a veteran lately? November 11 is Veterans Day - the perfect holiday for thanking and honoring our country’s military. In celebration of Veterans Day, Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards and our team would like to share a few fun facts about our flag, this national holiday, and our country’s history!

• There are 23.2 million veterans in the U.S.
• The flag was first approved by Congress on June 14, 1777
• Each of the flag’s colors signify different American values- red is for valor and zeal, white is for hope, purity, and cleanliness of life, and blue is for heaven, loyalty, sincerity, justice, and truth
• Research by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) helped develop the CAT Scan, the cardiac pacemaker, and the “Seattle Foot” to give those hurt the ability to run and jump
• Veterans Day, a day that was originally called Armistice Day, is a time to thank and honor the men and women who have served in our military.
• When the flag is displayed next to another flag against a wall, the U.S. flag should be on its own right (on the left side when facing the wall).
• There are five states with over 1 million veterans in their population – California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania
• The VA healthcare system now has 171 medical centers, 126 nursing home care units, and 35 live-in care facilities
• President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the official legislation for Veterans Day on June 1, 1954, changing the name of the holiday from Armistice Day to Veterans Day
• Take a Veteran to School Day is a program that was developed by HISTORY in 2007 to connect students and veterans.
• Veterans Day is often confused with Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a time for remembering and honoring the men and women who died while serving our country, or as a result of injuries that incurred in battle. Veterans Day honors and gives thanks to all veterans who served and currently serve our country.

At Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, what puts your child at ease?

Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards understand that not every child is thrilled to see the dentist. But we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience at each visit. We’d like to know: What is it about our doctors and team that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly staff or Morrow, Lai, & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call!

Ask Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards: What’s so bad about nail biting?

We’ve all heard that biting your nails is an awful habit, but you many wonder- really- what’s so bad about it? Recently, our team at Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards found an interesting article that discusses how biting your nails affect your teeth and oral health.

Nail biting, also known as Onychophagia, is a common habit among various age groups, including primarily children, teens and young adults. Nail biting is generally triggered by stress and most often decreases with age. That being said, nail biting is unsanitary, unattractive, as well as unhealthy for your teeth!

Here’s why:
• It’s unsanitary. Your nails are dirty, almost twice as dirty as your fingers! Hence, biting your nails is just asking for germs and bacteria.

• No good things come to your teeth. Nail biting causes your teeth to constantly be chewing, which is not good for them. This excessive motion wears your teeth down faster than a non-nail biter’s and puts a large amount of stress on your front teeth- contributing to teeth misalignment.

• It can be costly. Nail biting can result in up to $4,000 in additional dental bills over one lifetime, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Yikes!

What can you do about it?
Now that you know how harmful nail biting can be, it’s time to take action to break your nail biting habit. Try to be conscious of your fingernails and to keep them looking good- this will help you resist the temptation. Ask Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards or visit the article for tips on how to break a nail biting habit.

Good luck!
Your friends at Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards

Toothbrush Trivia, from Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

People have been brushing their teeth for thousands of years! In fact, the first “toothbrush” was created around 3000BC! Ancient civilizations used a thin twig with a frayed edge to rub against their teeth for cleaning.

The first toothbrush with bristles – similar to today’s toothbrushes – was invented in 1498 in China. Brushes were made out of bone or bamboo with bristles made from the hairs on the back of a hog’s neck.

It wasn’t until 1938 that the first nylon bristle toothbrush was introduced and people quickly became aware of practicing good oral hygiene.

Here are some other interesting facts about your toothbrush (and toothpaste):

• Most people are said to use blue toothbrushes over any other color
• The first toothpaste was used in 500 BC in China and India
• On average, children smile about 400 times per day
• Your toothbrush should be replaced every two months
• The first known toothpaste was used in 1780, Crest was introduced in the US in 1955 and Colgate in 1873

Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards, protecting your child from cavities this Halloween

As Halloween is only two weeks away, Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards know that there will soon be many tricks and treats! While this festive holiday is full of costumes and fun community activities, it can also be a harmful time for the teeth of young trick-or-treaters in our Tulsa, OK neighborhoods.

With all of the sugary, sticky, and chewy treats that are often shared with trick-or-treaters, it is important that you take the necessary steps to prevent cavities this Halloween.

Be sure to visit our understanding cavities blog to learn more about cavities, and how they can be avoided by good oral hygiene habits. Don't hesitate to ask Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards or our staff for more information about cavities and your oral health during your next visit.

What do you love about Morrow, Lai, and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry?

From your very first visit to Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards, our doctors and team strive to provide superior treatment in a pleasant, friendly atmosphere. We thought we’d ask you, our wonderful patients: Have you or has your child been especially impressed by the work of Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards? Did our team go out of their way to make your day? Are you in love with your new smile?

Whether you’ve just come in for a consultation or your family has been visiting our office for years, we’d love to hear your feedback. You can write a review on our Google Places page. Or, you can tell us by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Thank you,

-Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

10 Dos and Don’ts of Facebook for parents, from Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

Many parents tend to sign up for Facebook accounts and ‘friend’ their kids, often as a way to keep an eye on their online activities. But then what? Many parents in this digital age are still lost when it comes to monitoring their kids online.

Last fall, parenting author Vicki Courtney wrote a helpful post on the things parents should and shouldn’t do while surfing through their kids’ Facebook profiles. Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards and our team thought you might benefit from reading Vicki’s interesting piece.

Here are “Top Ten Facebook No-Nos for Parents,” designed specifically for those moms and dads who aren’t sure whether they’ve crossed the line in monitoring their kids’ presence online.

We hope you find this article informational. Please let us know what you think!

Moooooove over gum disease!

Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards want to know: Is dairy a major part of your regular diet? If not, it should be! A 2008 study from the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has found that regular consumption of dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt, can actually lower your chances of contracting periodontal disease (also known as gum disease). Results of the study also showed that adults who consume at least 55 grams of lactic acid a day are less at risk for gum disease.




Cheese is one of the healthiest snacks for your child's teeth. In addition to providing large amounts of much-needed calcium, cheese also does its part to fight cavities. Cheddar, Swiss, Mozzarella, and Monterey Jack all stimulate the body's salivary glands to clear the mouth of debris and protect them from acids that weaken them, according to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. This means cheese disrupts the development of cavities, especially when eaten as a snack or at the end of a meal. Calcium and phosphorous found in cheese reduce or prevent decreases in the plaque's ph level and work to re-mineralize the enamel of your child's teeth.

Gum disease is caused by a bacterial infection in the mouth that affects the gums and jaw. Gum disease results in a loss of teeth and bone, and has been connected to certain cases of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, respiratory disease and osteoporosis.

Eating dairy is not just healthy for building strong bones, but is essential for maintaining a strong, healthy mouth. Next time you reach for a quick snack, choose some cheese, or a glass of milk, and remember with each bite, and every sip you are preserving your teeth for a lifetime of smiles and good oral health!

For more information about which dairy foods are best for keeping your teeth healthy, please give us a call.

A few tips for keeping your baby safe and sound, from Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

In honor of Baby Safety Month, Tulsa, OK pediatric dentists Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards would like to encourage all of our patients and their families to become educated on the importance of childproofing your home. Your child’s health and safety is of the utmost importance to our team at Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, which is why we would like to remind all of our patients to be mindful of some of the common hazards that may be in your home.

Children are vulnerable, and it is important that you take the necessary precautions in your kitchen, bathroom, nursery, and around the home to minimize the risk to your baby. For example, never leave poisons or toxic materials under the sink where they can be easily reached by a child. In the bathroom, remember to remove soaps, razors, and shampoos from the edge of the tub and close the toilet lid. Children are naturally curious, so it is necessary that you cover all electrical outlets, keep all trash containers locked, and ensure that hanging cords from phones, lamps, and appliances are kept out of reach.

We hope that these baby safety tips help! For more tips, visit the Royal Baby Safety website. As always, feel free to give us a call if you have any questions about baby safety or pediatric dentistry for your little one.

Baby teeth – and gums – need special care!

One question our staff at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry hear all the time is, “When should I start brushing my baby’s teeth?”

You should begin regular cleanings even before your baby has teeth. After each breast feeding – or bottle-feeding – use a clean, damp washcloth to gently rub your baby’s gum tissue. You can wrap the material around one finger to make it easier to remove any food bits from your baby’s mouth.

When your baby’s first tooth comes in, switch to a baby toothbrush. Look for special baby toothbrushes in your drugstore – they have just a few bristles and are very soft. There are even brushes shaped like finger puppets that fit over the tip of your pointer finger! All you need at this point is water – no toothpaste yet.

After a few more teeth appear, you can start using toothpaste, but you only need a tiny bit, and make sure it doesn’t contain fluoride for the first three years. From the beginning, have your little one practice spitting the toothpaste out after brushing. That way, he or she will already have the good habit of spitting when you switch to fluoride toothpaste, which should never be swallowed.

If you have any questions about caring for your baby’s teeth, please contact Drs. Morrow, Lai & Edwards.

September is National Gum Care Month

Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can be difficult to recognize. Many people do not recognize the warning signs- bleeding and swollen gums, as a precursor to gum disease. This month a national campaign is underway to raise awareness about gum health and periodontal disease, and we at Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards wanted to do our part to help spread the word!

Early recognition and action are the most important steps to health gums, and ultimately a health body too! Studies are published every year linking oral health, including the gums, to the health of other areas of the body, such as the heart. One of the most important steps to improving the care of your gums is recognizing the warning signs for gum disease. These can include:

• Gums that appear red or swollen
• Gums that feel tender
• Gums that bleed easily (during brushing or flossing)
• Gums that recede or pull away from the teeth
• Persistent halitosis, or bad breath
• Loose teeth
• Any change in the way teeth come together in the biting position

If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible. We can take proactive steps to prevent gingivitis and gum disease, while showing you how to improve gum care in your daily oral hygiene habits.

Understanding cavities, from Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards

One word nobody wants to hear when they visit Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards is cavity! That’s right, the dreaded cavity; but what exactly is a cavity and how do you get one? A cavity is a hole that develops in a tooth when the tooth begins to decay. It’s important to get a cavity filled as soon as it’s detected so that it does not grow bigger.

So, what causes a cavity? A cavity is caused by plaque, a sticky substance that forms on the tooth as a result of germ and bacteria build-up. Plaque is acidic and as it clings to your teeth the acids eat away the outside of the tooth (also called the enamel) and a hole is formed.

Yes, cavities can be repaired by your dentist, but here are a few simple steps you can take to prevent cavities:

• Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily

• Gently brush your gums to keep them healthy (when choosing a toothbrush it is recommended to use soft bristles)

• Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove plaque and food that may be caught between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach

• Limit the amount of soda and sugary treats you eat/drink

• Be sure to visit your dentist every six months for a teeth cleaning and check-up

Eating healthy at the ballpark this summer, from Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

This summer, as you and the family head out to the ball game—whether it’s at a Major League park or the local tee ball game, it’s important to remember to make smart, healthy choices when it comes to snacks. Here are some tips you can use to avoid greasy, ballpark foods:

1. Eat before you go!

2. What are you drinking? Water is always a cheap, refreshing option. Gatorade, Powerade and VitaminWater work as well, though keep in mind their sugar levels.

3. Bring your own snacks. Remember that these must be in unopened packages when you enter the gates.

4. Before the game, get some exercise. You’ll be sitting for two- to three hours at the game, so be sure to take a walk or a light run before you head out.

5. Calories, calories, calories. From hot dogs to fries to pizza, the ballpark stands typically sell high-caloric foods. But most venues will also offer healthier options, such as crab cakes, chicken sandwiches, turkey wraps or soups and salads.

Enjoy the game!

-Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

Your turn! From Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards

Week after week, Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards and team blog about important topics pertinent to dental care and your well-being, including innovative dental techniques we offer. Today, we thought we’d step back and ask you, our loyal patients and readers: What’s on your mind? What would you like to know about the field of dentistry? What would you like us to focus on our blog in the coming months?

Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook fan page. So… take it away and we’ll try to answer any questions you may have!

Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards ask: Would your little one enjoy a little stargazing?

When was the last time that you and your family enjoyed the Tulsa, OK great outdoors? If you’ve been looking for a great educational activity for your preschooler or kindergartener, search no further! Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards recently came across a great article in Nickelodeon Parents Connect, which we would like to share with you today. We know how important it is for your child to discover the magic of science for themselves. That’s why we invite you to let your imagination run wild and take your children on a summer stargazing expedition!

When planning your stargazing trip, whether it is in the backyard, at a local park, or while camping, be sure to choose a warm, clear night. A few constellations to look for: the Big Dipper, Little Dipper, North Star, and Cassiopeia. Don’t forget to pack a flashlight, snacks, water, sleeping bags, paper and crayons, and-of course-your star map!

Have fun & be safe!

-The team at Morrow, Lai, and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry

Ask Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards: What toothbrush is right for my child?

Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards will tell you that brushing your teeth is one of the easiest methods of cavity prevention. But which type of toothbrush should your child use? When choosing a toothbrush, look for round-ended (polished) bristles that clean while being gentle on the gums. Choose one that is specifically designed for child's smaller mouths and hands. Also, look for large handles that can help children control the toothbrush. Lastly, throw out a toothbrush after three months or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Frayed bristles can harm your gums, and are not as effective in cleaning teeth.

As far as which toothpaste is best? It doesn't matter as long as it has fluoride in it. However, for small children who tend to swallow toothpaste, do not use fluoridated toothpaste. Make sure to touch each tooth and every side of that tooth. Also, you do need to gently brush on your gums.

To learn more about choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste for your child, we encourage you to read this helpful article from Parenthood.com. Or, you may give us a call and we'll try to answer any question you may have about keeping your child's mouth as healthy as possible!

Sun safety with Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edward

There's nothing like a hot summer day! Now that the heat wave is sweeping through Tulsa, OK, our team at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry thought that we would share a few sun safety tips with you, courtesy of KidsHealth. Although vitamin D is essential for absorbing calcium, there can be serious health affects if you aren't prepared for the heat. That's why our doctors here at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry want to help keep you informed about sun safety!

Sun Safety 101: What to know about UVA, VVB, and UVC rays

1. UVA rays- These rays make of the majority of sun exposure, and can contribute to skin cancer, skin aging, and wrinkling.

2. UVB rays- Known for causing sunburns, cataracts, and immune system damage, these powerful rays are linked with Melanoma (the most dangerous form of skin cancer).

3. UVC rays- Lucky for you, these rays are shielded by the ozone layer and don't reach earth!

To protect yourself from these harmful rays, try to avoid the sun between 10am to 4pm, when it is the most prominent! If you do choose to spend time in the sun, remember to cover up, apply generous amounts of SPF 15 or higher sunscreen every 2 to 3 hours, stay hydrated, and use protective eye wear! Also, remember to check your child's medications for sun sensitivity.

Have a fun & safe weekend,

- Your friends at Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edward

Celebrating Baby Week with Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards

Happy Baby Week! For those of you who didn't know, July 12 through the 16 is celebrated across the nation as Baby Week, a time when Discovery Health focuses its attention on informing you- the new or expecting to be moms and dads- on issues and stories that are relevant to babies. Visit the Baby Week website for information, quizzes, videos, and of course, the cutest baby face-off!

Our team here at Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards knows how important it is for the moms and dads of newborns to know how to correctly stimulate the senses of their infant. This interaction is vital to the physical and psychological growth and development of your baby. That’s why, in celebration of Baby Week, we would like to highlight a few ways that you can help your infant embrace the world around them, courtesy of Discovery Health.

Our office hopes that this information on a newborn’s five senses! Remember, babies’ teeth begin emerging at eight to ten months. Happy Baby Week!

-Your friends at Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards

Artificial sweeteners and your child’s health

There is always a lot of debate about the health effects of artificial sweeteners, and aspartame is most surely one of the most controversial food additives to ever receive approval by the FDA. Here at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry in Tulsa, OK, we try to provide you with the most up to date information on topics relating to the health of our patients and their loved ones. That is why we want to share with you, our wonderful patients, a few facts that we recently learned in a Huffington Post article.

The many names of aspartame

Did you know that aspartame is now sold under many commercial names, including NutraSweet, Canderel, and AminoSweet? Yes, that’s right. Now, when you’re checking the nutrition facts for various foods and beverages there are several names to be aware of as simultaneous to aspartame. This sweetener can be found in diabetic foods, jams, breakfast cereals, chewing gum, soda, and even prescriptions and vitamins.

What’s so harmful about aspartame?

With over 10,000 official complaints, aspartame reactions are more commonly reported than that of all other food additives combined. Of these reports, two-thirds consist primarily of headaches, mood alterations, and hallucinations, while one third is mainly gastrointestinal symptoms. Aspartame has also been linked to causing weight problems, the metabolism of amino acids, protein structure and metabolism, neuronal function and other primary functions.

How to treat your sweet tooth without the artificial sweets

Finding your nutritional type and the foods that your body craves is key to satisfying sugar cravings. Diet sodas are a very common food craving, but they can be damaging to the health of your teeth, as well as your body! The recommended fructose level is below 25 grams per day.

Please give us a call if you have any questions or comments about this article! As always, please remember to use a straw if you choose to sip soda, coffee, or other dark colored beverages to take care of that beautiful smile.

Summer fun with Drs. Morrow, Lai, & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry

Summer is finally here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the team at Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry thought we’d ask: What’s your favorite part about summer? Is it the warm weather? Trips to the lake or neighborhood pool? Spending quality time with friends and family? Picnics at the park?

Drs. Morrow, Lai, and Edwards, and team would like to know what makes your summer especially memorable. Let us know by posting on our Facebook page or by giving us a call!

Patient question: How is tooth decay preventable?

Drs. Edwards, Lai and Morrow will tell you that tooth decay is preventable - tooth decay is caused by sugars left in your mouth that turn into an acid which can break down your teeth. Children are at high risk for tooth decay for a simple reason — many children and adolescents tend to be lax in their oral hygiene habits. Proper brushing and flossing routines combined with regular dental visits help keep tooth decay away. A low-sugar diet also helps keep tooth decay at bay.

Your child should visit our convenient Tulsa office every 6 months for regular dental cleanings and checkups. We recommend fluoride treatments twice a year along with cleanings to keep teeth their strongest. Tooth sealants are also recommended because they "seal" the deep grooves in your child's teeth, preventing decay from forming in these hard-to-reach areas. Sealants last for several years, but will be monitored at your regular checkups.

If you have any other questions or concerns about your child's dental well-being, we encourage you to give us a call at 918-742-9810.

Enjoy your weekend everyone!

What's on your child's reading list this summer?

With summer officially only three days away, we've been thinking more and more about the importance of summer reading. After all, children reading during the summer are bettered prepared for school and maintain their skill level.

Tell us: is your child reading a book this summer? If so, what's on their reading list?

If you're having trouble picking out great summer reads, we encourage you to ask Drs. Edwards, Morrow or Lai for suggestions, and they'll be more than happy to provide a few great titles for your kids. You may also ask a local librarian here in Tulsa for some suggestions or check out these summer reading ideas we came across yesterday, courtesy of Barnes & Noble.

Happy reading everybody and have a GREAT weekend!

Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards want to know: is your child a mouth breather?

At Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, we know breathing through the mouth instead of the nose spells trouble for kids. Now we have proof, thanks to a study published in the January/February 2010 issue of the journal General Dentistry.

Children who typically breathe through their mouth - most often kids who suffer from allergies - experience problems getting enough oxygen into their blood, a condition that affects their weight, size and sleep, which often affects their performance in the classroom and life.

Dr. Yosh Jefferson, who anchored the study, also notes that if left untreated, mouth breathing can cause dental and facial abnormalities. But there's good news: mouth breathing is a treatable condition. Doing so, however, requires early diagnosis and treatment. Since Drs. Morrow Lai and Edwards see their patients often enough, they may be in a position to identify the symptoms of mouth breathing.

If you suspect your child is a chronic mouth breather, please give our team a call at (918) 742-9810. Happy Friday and have a great weekend.

Patient question: Is sedation dentistry right for my child?

While Drs. Lai, Morrow and Edwards strive to offer a comfortable experience for all our patients, we realize that fear or anxiety while visiting the dentist can affect a lot of kids anyway. For patients who need extra comfort and relaxation during their dental visit, we are pleased to offer sedation dentistry.

Do you feel nervous or stressed about your upcoming dental treatment? Well you’re not alone; in fact, almost 30 percent of the population experiences "dental phobia" when faced with visiting the dentist.

The reasons for patients' fear of the dentist can be numerous, but are usually due to a traumatic experience during their childhood. This overwhelming anxiety can cause one to avoid modern dental care, resulting in poor oral hygiene and possible mouth-related issues such as gum disease.

Your child can benefit from sedation dentistry if he or she experiences one or more of the following:

* High fear of dental care
* Complex dental problems
* Traumatic dental experiences
* Fear of needles and shots
* Trouble getting numb
* Sensitive teeth

If your child suffers from dental phobia, sedation dentistry may be the answer. Please give us a call at (918) 742-9810 for more info about sedation dentistry, and we'll be more than happy to answer your questions.

Enjoy your weekend!

What should you do in an emergency?

When your child needs urgent dental treatment, our team at Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry stand ready to help. Please keep the emergency number available and convenient.

Q: What should I do if my child's baby tooth is knocked out?

A: Contact us as soon as possible at (918) 742-9810.

Q: What should I do if my child's permanent tooth is knocked out?

A: Find the tooth and rinse it gently in cool water. (Do not scrub it or clean it with soap -- use just water!) If possible, replace the tooth in the socket and hold it there with clean gauze or a wash cloth. If you can't put the tooth back in the socket, place the tooth in a clean container with milk, saliva, or water. Get to our office immediately. (Call the emergency number if it's after hours.) The faster you act, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Q: What if a tooth is chipped or fractured?

A: Contact us dentist immediately. Quick action can save the tooth, prevent infection and reduce the need for extensive dental treatment. Rinse the mouth with water and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. If you can find the broken tooth fragment, bring it with you to the dentist.

Q: What about a severe blow to the head or jaw fracture?

A: Go immediately to the emergency room of your local hospital. A blow to the head can be life threatening.

Q: What if my child has a toothache?

A: Call your pediatric dentist and visit the office promptly. To comfort your child, rinse the mouth with water. Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in a cloth. Do not put heat or aspirin on the sore area.

Q: Can dental injuries be prevented?

A: Absolutely! First, reduce oral injury in sports by wearing mouth guards. Second, always use a car seat for young children. Require seat belts for everyone else in the car. Third, child-proof your home to prevent falls, electrical injuries, and choking on small objects. Fourth, protect your child from unnecessary toothaches with regular visits to Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry.

We hope you have a great Memorial Day weekend! Make it memorable!!

What puts your child at ease in our office?

At Morrow Lai and Edwards DDS, we're well-aware that not every child is always thrilled to visit the pediatric dentist. But at our office, we strive to bring you and your child the best and most comforting dental experience at each of your visits.

Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant office environment? Our friendly professional staff? Perhaps it's something about Drs. Lai, Edwards or Morrow?

Let us know by posting here or on our Facebook page! Enjoy your weekend, everyone!

Ask Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards: When is thumb-sucking a cause for worry?

Lots of parents have asked Drs. Edwards, Lai and Morrow about whether it’s healthy for children to suck thumbs (or, less frequently, fingers). If you’ve got a thumb-sucker in the house, you are not alone. Research tells us that between 75-to-95- percent of infants suck their thumbs.

Is this anything you should worry about? In most cases, no. Sucking is a natural reflex for an infant, and can provide security and contentment as well as relaxation for your little one. It’s a habit that most children grow out of between the ages of two and four.

However, if your child keeps sucking after he or she has gotten their permanent teeth, it’s time to take a closer look. If your child sucks his thumb aggressively, putting pressure on the inside of his mouth or his teeth, it can cause problems with tooth alignment and proper mouth growth. If you’re worried, please give us a call and our team at Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry will help assess the situation, and provide tips for how to help your child break the habit.

Have a great weekend!

Playground safety tips, from Drs. Lai, Edwards and Morrow

Spring is here, and summer is fast approaching, and for our team at Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, that means only one thing: it's time to remind parents about playground safety.

Your kids will be spending lots of time outside, and we feel it's important for parents to know what safety features to look for before your child hangs out at the local park.

The American Academy of Pediatrics' website has some important safety tips that we'd thought we'd share with you today. When taking your children out to the parks, make sure you:

* Carefully supervise young children using playground equipment. Keep children from shoving, pushing, or fighting.

* The surface under playground equipment should be energy absorbent. Use safety - tested mats or loose fill materials (shredded rubber, sand, wood chips, or bark) maintained to a depth of at least 9 inches.

* Swing seats should be made of something soft, not wood or metal.

* Children should not twist swings, swing empty seats, or walk in front of moving swings.

* Put home playground equipment together correctly. It should sit on a level surface and be anchored firmly to the ground.

* Cap all screws and bolts. Check periodically for loose nuts and bolts and broken, rusty or sharp parts.

* Install playground equipment at least six feet from fences or walls.

* Check for hot metal surfaces on equipment such as those on slides, which can cause burns.

* Never attach ropes, jump ropes, clotheslines, or pet leashes to playground equipment as children can strangle on them.

Give us a call if you have any questions about these tips. Here's to a happy and safe spring and summer, from our entire team at Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry!

You, your child and cavities, from Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry

Our team at Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry recently read an interesting article pertaining to cavities and how bacteria spreads, and thought we'd share the news with you, our valued patients (and parents).

According to the MSNBC article, Streptococcus mutans, or MS, is a bacterium that can pass from person to person through the transfer of saliva, and is the main culprit of parent-to-child cavity transmissions. Bacteria has been known to spread through blowing on babies' foods, sharing household utensils and even kissing your little one. In fact, a 2008 pediatric dentistry study showed “strong evidence demonstrated that mothers are a primary source of MS colonization of their children; a few investigations showed other potential sources … notably fathers.”

Our staff also knows tooth decay is caused by a combination of factors, including the transfer of infectious saliva, oral hygiene, genetics and feeding practices, such as letting your baby constantly suck on sippy cups full of juice or milk or other sugar-laden liquids.

Lastly, Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards would like for you to read the rest of the article we provided and learn about the transmission of bacteria and how it might impact your child. If you have any questions about bacteria or your treatment at Morrow Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, please feel free to give us a call at (918) 742-9810.

Drs. Lai, Morrow and Edwards discuss kids and cavities

Recently, our staff read an interesting article about cavities in USAToday. In the article, the president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry said that one-third of children in the U.S. have cavities—that's right, multiple—by age three to five. That's why—under a new Massachusetts law—kids in day care there are now required to brush their teeth or have them brushed by a staffer. The article also points out that cavities are much more prevalent among young children today than they were a decade ago.

Cavities, Drs. Lai, Morrow and Edwards will tell you, can lead to severe tooth pain, eating problems, tooth loss and bad smiles, and that's why the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry says it's vital for children to visit a dentist by their first birthday. Has your child visited Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry yet? If your little one is one nearing his or her first birthday, it's time to schedule an appointment with Drs. Lai, Morrow or Edwards.

Happy Monday!

Easing your child's fear of dentists, from Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry

Drs. Lai, Edwards and Morrow know that many children have fear when it comes to visiting the dentist. Our team at Morrow, Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry found a great article on how to help kids overcome fears of the dentist, courtesy of our friends at WebMD.

Making your child feel comfortable when they visit Drs. Lai, Edwards and Morrow is a big reason to take your child to a pediatric dentist instead of a regular dentist.

Our staff at Morrow, Lai and Edwards Pediatric Dentistry excels at making children feel comfortable visiting the dentist. In fact, most of our patients look forward to their next visit! Has your child visited our office in the last six months? If not, it’s time to schedule an appointment!

Ask Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards: When should my child come in for a check-up?

At Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, we think a child's first visit to the dentist should be enjoyable and positive. The more you and your child know about the first visit, the better you will feel. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but they sure can fear the unknown. At Morrow, Lai & Edwards Pediatric Dentistry, our team makes a practice of using pleasant, non-frightening, simple words to describe your child's first dental visit and treatment. After all, we strive to make you and your child to feel at ease from the moment you walk through our door.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, or AAPD, kids should visit the dentist by their first birthday. It is important that your child's newly-erupted teeth (erupting at 6-12 months of age) receive proper dental care and benefit from proper oral hygiene habits right from the beginning. Your child's first tooth erupts between ages 6-12 months and the remainder of their 20 primary or "baby" teeth typically erupt by age 3.

If you have any questions about pediatric dentistry, or about your treatment with Drs. Morrow, Lai and Edwards, please give us a call at (918) 742-9810. Our goal is to create happy, healthy smiles for children. We want our patients to understand that oral health is important, and we want them to recognize their part in taking care of their teeth.

Meet Our Dentists

Dr. Mark Morrow is actively involved in continuing his education and regularly attend AAPD meetings, receiving more than 20 hours of training each year. He was fortunate to have attended Baylor College of Dentistry for his residency, where he was exposed to almost everything one could experience in pediatric dentistry. That, combined with annual continuing education, allows Dr. Morrow to fully utilize his knowledge to better assist the children within the practice. Dr. Morrow serves on the consulting staff at Claremore Comprehensive Indian Health Center and St. John Medical Center in Tulsa.

Dr. Morrow has lived in Tulsa all of his life and is married to his wife, Susan. They have a son, Matt, Daughter in-law, Emily, and daughter, Stacy. They have also rescued a black Standard Poodle named Paris. In his free time he enjoys fly fishing, golfing, traveling, and watching Oklahoma State football and basketball.


As a pediatric dentist, Dr. April Lai's focus is developing young patients with excellent oral health and habits and positive attitudes towards receiving dental care. She truly loves working with children and seeing the sense of accomplishment and pride that a child has after completing dental treatment. Dr. Lai believes in the importance of education and prevention in the office, as well as being a good role model to the youth in her community.

Dr. Lai lives in Tulsa with her husband, Joseph Lai, who practices orthodontics in the Tulsa community. They have three wonderful children, Cooper, Olivia, and Fisher, and a Black Lab named Jake. She really enjoys spending time with her family. With three young children, the Lai family's leisure time is filled with bike riding, playing outside, and helping mommy cook. When Dr. Lai does have free time, she likes to run and attempt Pilates. She recently started running with some of the office staff and finds it to be great for the body, mind, and soul. She is a member of Church of the Madalene Catholic Church and is involved with and volunteers at her son's school. She is also involved in Emergency Infant Services and Catholic Charities.


As the newest member of the team, Dr. Kerry Edwards feels extremely honored to have joined a practice with such an outstanding reputation in the community. As a pediatric dentist and a mom, she tries to always remember that children don't have the same comfort zones or anxiety levels and she tries to treat her patients as she would treat her own children. Dr. Edwards enjoys providing excellent oral healthcare to children and feeling like she is truly making a difference in their lives. Watching her patients grow up and gain confidence makes this a very rewarding career.

Dr. Edwards is a native of Muskogee and now lives in Jenks with her husband, Eric, and their children, Will, Lizzy, and Annabelle. She enjoys attending her children's activities, TSC Soccer, Jenks Football, Sooner Football, as well as scrap booking, running, and exercising. She is a member of Madalene Catholic Church and is involved in supporting the Catholic Charities Organization in the Tulsa area.