Baldassano and Associates Family Dentistry

08/21/2026

Wow!

🇺🇸Dr. Richard Zink has lived his lifelong dream - and he isn’t slowing down. At 97 years old, he continues to serve his community as the oldest practicing dentist in Ohio.

His story began in childhood, when he’d play “dentist” using corn cobs, imagining the kernels were teeth.

After earning his dental license from Ohio State University in 1958, he’s dedicated over six decades to transforming lives through dentistry.

Dr. Zink is deeply committed to community dentistry - volunteering for Tent City events, where he provides free dental care for people experiencing homelessness.

In his work at T-Town Smiles, he specializes in crafting dentures and implants for low-income patients, giving them not just teeth, but renewed confidence.

What keeps him going? His passion for helping others, the love of his family, and yes - a sweet tooth for cookies. “As long as they feed me cookies,” he says with a laugh.

Even now, he hopes to continue working “full force” until he’s 100, showing that age really is just a number when your heart is in your work
Image Source: 13 Action News (Ohio)

08/11/2026

Great service! Only plumbers we trust!

Truck number 2 finally got its uniform installed last week! We are very pleased with the end result. If you see us around town, give us a wave! We are available for all of your plumbing needs, feel free to reach out if anything comes up.

07/25/2026

🦷 Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Dentistry: 5 Main Reasons Why It Is Used

Antibiotic prophylaxis remains an important tool in dentistry for selected patients, especially when dental procedures may increase the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream. ⚠️💊

Although not every patient requires antibiotics before dental treatment, there are specific medical conditions where prophylaxis can help prevent serious systemic complications. 👇

✅ 5 Main Reasons for Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Dentistry

1️⃣ Prevention of Infective Endocarditis

Patients with certain heart conditions, prosthetic heart valves, or a history of infective endocarditis may require antibiotic prophylaxis before invasive dental procedures. ❤️🦠

2️⃣ Protection for Immunocompromised Patients

Cancer patients, transplant recipients, or individuals with severe systemic diseases may have a higher risk of developing infections after dental treatment. 🛡️💉

3️⃣ Prevention of Infections in Complex Oral Surgeries

Multiple extractions, periodontal surgeries, implant placement, and other extensive procedures may require antibiotic coverage in selected clinical cases. 🦷🔬

4️⃣ Patients with Joint Prostheses or Special Medical Conditions

Although indications are becoming more selective, some patients with recent joint replacements or specific medical conditions may still require medical evaluation before treatment. 🦴⚕️

5️⃣ Reduction of Severe Odontogenic Infections

In patients with active infections or a history of recurrent odontogenic infections, antibiotics may help reduce postoperative complications. 🚨🦠

📌 Important: The unnecessary use of antibiotics contributes to bacterial resistance. Antibiotic prophylaxis should always be based on updated clinical guidelines and individualized patient assessment. 👨‍⚕️📚

Do you think antibiotics are overprescribed in dentistry today? 🤔💬

07/24/2026

Great produce and great customer service!

$1 delicious local cantaloupe!
Is there a better deal in this world?

07/07/2026

A child's first dental visit can shape a lifetime of healthy smiles.

The first dental visit is recommended by a child's first birthday, or within six months after the first tooth erupts. The goal isn't just to look for cavities. It's an opportunity to make sure the teeth, gums, and jaws are developing normally, while giving parents practical guidance on brushing, feeding habits, fluoride, and preventing early tooth decay. Starting dental care early also helps children become familiar with the dental office, making future visits more comfortable and less stressful.

Baby teeth may be temporary, but their role is not. They help children chew, speak clearly, support normal facial development, and hold space for permanent teeth. Because tooth decay can begin soon after the first teeth appear, early dental visits allow problems to be detected and prevented before they become painful or require more complex treatment. Creating a dental home during infancy gives every child the best opportunity for a healthy smile as they grow.

Reference: American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.

05/28/2026

The American Dental Association recommends that a child’s first dental visit happen soon after the first tooth erupts — and no later than the first birthday.

Many parents wait until a child complains of pain or develops visible cavities, but dental problems can begin much earlier than most people realize.

Early dental visits help monitor oral development, identify signs of tooth decay, guide parents on feeding and brushing habits, and build healthy routines from the start.

Baby teeth are temporary, but they play a major role in chewing, speech development, jaw growth, and guiding permanent teeth into place.

Preventive dental care should begin early — not after problems appear.

05/28/2026

DYK? Only about 45% of Pennsylvania adults with diabetes saw a dentist recently. Adults with diabetes are also much more likely to lose teeth than those without diabetes. The good news is that taking care of your mouth can help improve your blood sugar over time! If you have diabetes, regular dental checkups are an important part of staying healthy.

05/25/2026

🙏🙏🙏🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

05/05/2026

Thank you for your service.

05/04/2026