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THE BRANDON SUN n
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026
Break bad habits that harm your teeth
Do you want to keep your teeth strong and healthy for as long as possible? Make sure you haven’t picked up the following seven bad habits. If you have, try to break them right away. 1. Crunching ice cubes. It may seem harmless, but chewing on ice can severely damage your teeth, leading to cracks and breakage. Letting the ice melt in your mouth is better than risking injury. 2. Clenching or grinding your teeth. Often linked to stress, grinding and clenching your teeth can wear down your enamel. Try relaxation techniques like breath- ing exercises or meditation. If
though quite popular, tongue and lip piercings can damage your enamel and cause fractures. Con- sult your dentist before getting an oral piercing. 7. Chewing on objects. Absent- minded chewing on a hard object — even if only occasionally — can put excessive pressure on your teeth, causing damage. Rather than nibbling on that pen to ease your stress, consider chewing gum instead. Stop these bad habits to prevent many dental problems. Talk to your dentist or hygienist for per- sonalized advice. » Newspaper Toolbox
you grind your teeth at night, talk to your dentist about getting a mouthguard. 3. Using your teeth as tools. Avoid using your teeth to open bottles, tear packaging or cut wires, as these activities can cause serious damage. Always use the appropriate tools. 4. Biting your nails. This habit can put a lot of pressure on your teeth, creating microtraumas that can lead to fractures over time. 5. Eating hard foods. Biting into nuts, crusty bread, unpopped popcorn kernels or hard candies can weaken and crack your teeth. 6. Having mouth piercings. Al-
What you need to know about oral cancer Regular dental checkups can help identify early signs of oral cancer. (News- paper Toolbox)
Oral cancer can appear as le- sions or sores in the mouth that don’t heal. Individuals with this condition may experience per- sistent pain and white or red patches on the gums, tongue or inner cheeks. Additionally, they may have difficulty chewing or swallowing. TREATMENTS Treatment options for oral can- cer include surgery to remove the affected tissue or tumour, as well as radiation therapy or chemo- therapy to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be admin- istered alone or in combination with other treatments, especially in the more advanced stages of the disease. RISK FACTORS Several risk factors are associ-
ated with oral cancer, including smoking, excessive alcohol con- sumption, a diet low in plant- based foods, poor oral hygiene and prolonged sun exposure to the lips. Failing to brush and floss daily can increase the risk of chronic infection and inflam- mation, which may promote the development of cancer cells. For your best chance of avoid- ing oral cancer, schedule a den- tal checkup and cleaning at least once a year. Most importantly, follow the advice of dental health experts and maintain a regular oral care routine. Regular dental checkups can help identify early signs of oral cancer. This allows for timely in- tervention and increases the like- lihood of a successful outcome. » Newspaper Toolbox
Biting your fingernails can damage your teeth. (Newspaper Toolbox)
Strategic financial solutions for Manitoba’s agricultural sector
Rachel Tripp Senior Agribusiness Account Manager
Jennifer McGregor Agribusiness Account Manager Small & Medium Enterprise
Meet Jennifer and Rachel , two trusted members from Assiniboine Credit Union’s Agribusiness Financial Centre.
How can ACU’s Agribusiness team support farmers in the Westman area?
Rachel - Our Agribusiness team is deeply dedicated to the agriculture industry and to the rural communities we are proud to serve. Each member of our team brings valuable experience, local insight, and a strong understanding of the opportunities and challenges producers face throughout the year. By working collaboratively, we are able to draw on different perspectives and areas of expertise to ensure our members receive well-rounded advice and support. Jennifer - My favourite part of working within the Agribusiness team is being surrounded by people who understand and care about the agriculture industry. We each bring different experiences and knowledge to the table, and that allows us to work together to support our members in meaningful ways. I enjoy learning from the team, sharing ideas and helping farm families and Ag businesses find solutions that support their success. What is your favourite part of working within the Agribusiness team?
What led you to work in agriculture? Jennifer - I grew up on a family farm just outside Birch River, Manitoba, where we grain farmed, raised cattle, pigs, sheep, chickens, turkeys and geese, and milked cows. That hands-on experience gave me a deep appreciation for the dedication and resilience of farm families. It also sparked my passion for supporting agriculture and being there for our Ag members. What is your specialty? What makes you unique? Rachel - Growing up on a Manitoba grain farm gave me firsthand insight into the realities of farm life. The volatility of grain markets, unpredictable weather, economic pressures, and the countless other factors farmers navigate every day are challenges I discuss at home on a regular basis. That experience, combined with my role as an advisor, allows me to understand my members’ challenges from both a farmer’s and a financial perspective. By bringing those two viewpoints together, I can offer thoughtful advice, practical solutions, and support tailored to each member’s unique needs.
Grow your Agribusiness with ACU. 204.226.4009 ACU.ca
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