What are Social Security Survivor Benefits?What are Social Security Survivor Benefits?

Social security benefits are mostly known for those of partial or full retirement age,though there are several different types of benefits,such as survivor benefits. The official name of the program is Old-Age Survivors and Disability Insurance (OASDI) which helps your spouse or dependents receive a passed-on spouse’s social security benefits on top of their own. 

Below you’ll find information that gives a more in-depth understanding of a widow’s social security benefit derived from their spouse and some advice on how to navigate the complex rules of the program. 

Who Qualifies for Social Security Survivors Benefits?

To qualify for social security survivor benefits,you’ll have to meet the requirements for eligibility,which include:

  • You must be a widow or widower of any age who is caring for the deceased’s child or children under the age of 16,or who are disabled.
    • Step-children,grandchildren,step-grandchildren,and adopted children can be included under certain circumstances
  • A widow or widower who is 60 years older or more who has not remarried
  • Any unmarried children of the deceased who are younger than 18 years old or have a disability that surfaced before 22 years old.
  • Parents that are 62 years or older that were dependent on the deceased for at least half of their income and whose social security income would not be larger than of the deceased’s children. 
  • A surviving divorced spouse may receive benefits if they meet other eligibility requirements

Another point of qualification is shared with social security retirement requirements,meaning you would have to have worked a certain number of years and gained the proper amount of credits each year for your loved ones to be eligible for the benefits. 

How are Social Security Benefits Calculated for a Widow?

How the benefits are calculated for a widow can quickly become complex as there are several provisions for different circumstances. One such provision is the one-time death benefit payment of $225,which can be issued if the deceased spouse either lived with the widow(er) or was receiving social security benefits on their record. If there is no surviving spouse,the one-time payment can be given to a child who is eligible for the benefits. Another provision is if the death leaves a spouse with dependent children,which allows the benefits to be paid to them if the deceased had earned at least 6 credits within the three calendar years prior to their passing. 

To gain the benefits,a specific amount of credits are needed to be eligible,depending on the age of the spouse who has passed. The younger they are,the fewer credits are needed,but the maximum required is 40. Also,just as with the Social Security Administration’s retirement SSI program,the amount of survivors benefits depends on the average lifetime earnings of the spouse who passed. The more that was earned,the higher the benefit till a maximum amount is reached. 

How Big Can the Benefits Be?

The benefits survivors receive can depend on their age and the type of relationship they had with the deceased:

Widow(er) Benefits

If at the full retirement age,the surviving spouse can receive the total amount of the deceased’s benefits. If they are between the ages of 60 and full retirement age,they can receive between 71% to 99% of the amount. A disabled spouse between 50 and 59 years of age can receive up to 71%,and a spouse caring for a child under the age of 16 at any age can receive up to 75%. A divorced spouse,if they qualify as previously mentioned,can receive the same amounts listed above.

Children and Parent Benefits

Children under the age of 18,or 19 if still in school or disabled,can receive 75% of the deceased parent’s benefit. A parent that is dependent on the deceased is eligible to receive 82% of the benefits,but if both parents are alive and were dependents,then they each can collect 75%.

As you can see,it can become quite complicated to ensure you receive your social security from your loved one. Here at Marken Law Group,we have a comprehensive understanding of social security benefits for surviving spouses. We understand how stressful benefits can be and don’t want to add to your plate during this sad and stressful time. Partner with an experienced ally that is by your side from start to finish with a qualified social security lawyer to help you through this process to secure your benefits.

Marken Law Group | No Benefits

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Kauai Home Buyers’ GuideKauai Home Buyers’ Guide

Those who buy a home for the first time will face numerous difficulties not just needing to understand the process of buying a home but likewise having to understand which kind of loan matches them the most. Guidance from well suggesting loved ones can be useful,but purchasing a home is a major financial commitment and you would be smart to educate yourself on the home purchasing procedure before taking the first step.

When you have any queries relating to the choice to acquire a house,you ought to talk with a real estate representative considering that they can provide you a professional suggestions. The purpose of this preliminary meeting is not to sign a representation agreement with the realty representative,however rather to make yourself familiar with regional property laws in your specific area. If the agent has no time at all to talk about the house buying process with you,then keep looking till you discover one who will. A great realty agent will give you info on the regional real estate market and offer you a guide for the kinds of mortgage products that are available to you. When you choose to purchase a house,a mortgage broker or loan provider can also give you valuable information.

The concerns you need to ask the property agent or home loan broker consist of how to make an offer on a home you wish to buy and the specifics associated with between making your preliminary offer and the last approval of the offer from the seller. Inquire about the settlement expenses,the deposit quantity that you may require,and the length of time involved between the approval of your deal and the last closing date.

Ensure you understand your credit circumstance and what it suggests to you as far as obtaining a home loan. Deposit requirements and the interest rate you will get are directly connected to your credit rating. You should understand precisely what is on your credit report before starting the house purchasing procedure.

Buying a house can be difficult at times which a calm attitude and the capability to manage any concerns that might develop calmly will make the purchase of your first home a more pleasant experience. The assistance will give you a great start in making wise decisions when you purchase your first house. Buying your very first home is among the most amazing occasions in your life. Provide yourself the information you take the recommendations and require of experts when you begin the home purchasing procedure. The experience will be less difficult and you will take advantage of the knowledge you have gotten.

When acquiring a home somewhere on Kauai,this business is very helpful:

Buying a home can be stressful at times and that a calm attitude and the ability to cope with any issues that may arise calmly will make the purchase of your first house a more pleasant experience. Provide yourself the info you need and take the advice of professionals when you begin the house purchasing process.

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Chronic Sinusitis and Dental Health: Understanding the Link and Oral Care TipsChronic Sinusitis and Dental Health: Understanding the Link and Oral Care Tips

Sinus Infection Tooth Pain: How They Are Linked

Sinuses are spaces in your skull. They warm and moisten the air so that they are fit for you to breathe in. The largest sinuses,called the maxillary sinuses,are above your upper molar teeth. When the maxillary sinuses are infected,they can also affect the closest areas,such as your upper molars. 

Sinusitis causes tooth pain in two ways:

  • Referred pain from sinuses,teeth,and gums share the same pain-transmitting nerves. 
  • Congestion puts pressure on the root of the upper molars,causing discomfort. 

Can Sinus Infection Cause Tooth Infection?

No,a sinus infection cannot cause tooth infection. However,a tooth infection can spread to the sinuses and cause sinusitis. Dental infections can cause 40% of chronic sinus infections.

Can Sinus Infection Cause Tooth Pain in Front Teeth?

The maxillary sinuses are above the upper molars,making them less likely to cause tooth pain in the front teeth if the sinuses are infected. We advised that you schedule an appointment with your doctor to learn more. 

How do I Know if My Toothache is a Sinus Infection? Causes and Symptoms

Sinuses produce mucus to keep the air moist and prevent the inside of your nose from drying out. If the sinuses are irritated or infected,they can swell and get congested,causing pain in the upper molars.

What are the Most Common Symptoms of Sinus Infection Tooth Pain

Together with sinusitis signs and symptoms,the most common symptom of sinusitis tooth pain is toothache on more than one adjoining upper molars. The pain is not localized on one tooth. 

Another common symptom is pain aggravated by movement. Movement like jumping up and down can aggravate sinus tooth pain. Pain can also be aggravated by bending over or lying down. The motions can cause congested sinuses to press on the roots of the molars with more force. Meanwhile,lying down can lessen the pain.

How Long Does Tooth Pain Last with Sinus Infection?

It would depend on the severity of your sinusitis. Since sinus tooth pain appears more in acute sinus infection,said symptom can last up to ten days. 

Effective Remedies to Relieve Sinus Pressure in Your Teeth

Sinusitis Home Remedies

Since the congested mucus promotes germs that cause sinusitis,the goal is to decongest. Here are remedies you can try at home:

Hydrate
Drinking fluids can help thin the mucus and promote drainage to the nasal cavity.

Warm Compress
A warm compress over the sides of the nose can warm the sinuses and loosen mucus.

Steaming
Breathing in the steam of a bowl of hot water or a hot shower can loosen mucus. The warm,moist steam can soothe irritated nasal passages and make breathing easier.

Sinus Flushing
Flushing your sinuses with warm or room-temperature saline solution can help moisturize the lining of your sinuses. It can also loosen mucus and clear nasal cavities. 

Decongestants
Decongestants can help relieve symptoms. Topical decongestants shouldn’t be used for more than seven days as they can cause symptoms to worsen. The same can happen when using decongestant nasal sprays for over three days.

Toothache Home Remedies

Cold compress
A cold compress on the painful area for 10-15 minutes several times daily can numb tooth pain. 

Over-the-counter Pain Relievers
You can take OTC pain medications such as acetaminophen or numbing gels to treat sinusitis dental pain. 

Do I Need Antibiotics for a Sinus Infection?

Since most sinus infections get better without antibiotics,antibiotics are only prescribed by the doctor if other treatments don’t work,and they suspect bacterial infections. Antibiotics are only prescribed when other medications don’t work because they can cause mild to rash side effects,from rashes to severe allergic reactions.

When to Seek Professional Dental and Sinus Care

While you may need to consult your dentist to confirm if you have sinus or dental-related tooth pain,please schedule an appointment with your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms:

  • Tooth pain that persists after the sinusitis has disappeared
  • Severe pain
  • Fever that lasts more than three days
  • Symptoms that persist for more than ten days without improvement
  • Symptoms that got better then got worse
  • Inability to eat or drink due to dental or facial pain.

If you’re looking for sinus relief or interested in learning more about sinus surgery,click the link below!

Explore Sinus Surgeries

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What is Crown Lengthening?What is Crown Lengthening?

You may have heard about crown lengthening as an emerging trend in dentistry. Crown lengthening is a procedure performed by dentists and periodontists to increase your tooth surface. This is done by recontouring gum tissue to expose more of your tooth. Thereby it lengthens how much tooth is visible. 

Reasons for crown lengthening

Crown lengthening is often recommended for the proper placement of crowns or bridges. It’s also used to enhance the aesthetic beauty of your smile. For some patients Dr. Frahm recommends crown lengthening prior to the placement of veneers.

Crown lengthening for tooth replacement: Crowns,bridges

To properly place crowns and bridges,you must have enough of a healthy tooth to support them. But what happens if you don’t have enough of your original tooth left due to either decay,a weak tooth structure,or because your tooth is broken? By sculpting your gumline,more of your tooth’s surface Is exposed to accommodate a crown or a bridge. 

Crown lengthening for aesthetics: Veneers and smile enhancement

Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that improves the appearance of your smile. As we saw with crowns and bridges,veneers also require a stable tooth surface.  Crown lengthening can add surface and allow for a beautifully proportioned smile and gumline. 

But,the most common reason for crown lengthening is to correct a “gummy smile.” This term describes gums that are visible above the teeth when you smile. A gummy smiles can make you feel self-conscious. Crown lengthening sculpts your gums.  This enhances your smile so more of teeth show. Dental professionals refer to the golden ratio which allows for balanced proportions of your facial features,gumline,and teeth.

You may have heard to the golden proportion in relation to art and nature. Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man was drawn with ideal body proportions. A peacock’s feather contains a natural golden ratio. So too can dentists sculpt gums to bring a symmetry,dominance,and proportion for a beautiful smile. 

How is crown lengthening performed?

There are a few different techniques for crown lengthening. Reshaping gums is usually done with either a laser or scalpel.  Dr. Frahm prefers to use lasers. They are less invasive and result in less downtime and discomfort than scalpels. 

Gum reshaping is a one- to two-hour treatment. It can be done right in the dentist chair. The procedure feels familiar. Just like when a cavity is filled,Dr. Frahm numbs your gums. You’ll remain awake. The treatment consists of:

  • A soft tissue laser to remove a few millimeters of gum tissue.
  • Resculpting the gum line to expose more of tooth surface.  

Whether you are looking for crown lengthening to restore dental health or give you the smile you want,it’s a wonderful option to discuss with Dr. Frahm. Click the link below to get started!

Restore Your Smile Today

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Exploring the Mechanisms of Energy Healing: Unveiling the Mysteries Behind the PracticeExploring the Mechanisms of Energy Healing: Unveiling the Mysteries Behind the Practice

Energy healing,an ancient practice rooted in various cultures,has gained increasing attention and popularity in recent years. This holistic approach to well-being is based on the idea that the human body is not just a physical entity,but also a complex system of interconnected energy fields. Energy healing techniques aim to rebalance,restore,and harmonize these energies to promote physical,emotional,and spiritual well-being. In this article,we delve into the fundamental principles and mechanisms underlying energy healing,shedding light on the intricacies of this intriguing practice.

Understanding Energy Systems

At the core of energy healing is the concept that our bodies are composed of multiple energy systems,each responsible for different aspects of our well-being. These energy systems include the chakras,meridians,and aura. Chakras are energy centers that correspond to specific organs and emotional states,while meridians are energy pathways that carry life force or “qi” throughout the body. The aura,often described as an electromagnetic field,surrounds the body and reflects an individual’s physical,mental,and emotional state.

  • Manipulation of Bioenergies

Energy healing techniques operate on the principle that disturbances or blockages in the flow of energy can lead to physical or emotional ailments. Practitioners use various methods to manipulate these bioenergies,such as hands-on or hands-off approaches,visualization,and intention. Reiki,acupuncture,and Qigong are a few examples of energy healing practices that focus on channeling or balancing the body’s energy.

  • Intent and Focus

Intent and focus play a crucial role in energy healing. Practitioners often emphasize the power of intention to direct energy where it is needed most. Visualization techniques involve imagining the body’s energy systems functioning harmoniously,thus facilitating the natural healing process. This aligns with the idea that the mind and consciousness have a direct influence on the body’s energy flow.

  • Resonance and Vibrational Healing

Another principle underlying energy healing is the concept of resonance and vibrational healing. Everything in the universe,including our bodies,emits vibrations at specific frequencies. When these frequencies become imbalanced,illness or discomfort can arise. Energy healers aim to restore balance by introducing specific frequencies through their practices. Sound therapy,for example,uses vibrations from instruments like singing bowls to resonate with and shift the body’s energy.

  • Biofield and Electromagnetic Fields

The human body generates a complex electromagnetic field,often referred to as the biofield. This biofield is thought to contain information about an individual’s physical,mental,and emotional state. Energy healers work with the biofield to detect and address imbalances. Techniques like Therapeutic Touch involve the practitioner’s hands interacting with the biofield to promote healing.

  • Placebo Effect and Mind-Body Connection

The mechanisms of energy healing also intertwine with the placebo effect and the mind-body connection. Belief and expectation can influence an individual’s perception of healing,and energy healing practices often require a level of openness and receptivity. The mind’s influence on the body’s responses is well-documented,and energy healing leverages this connection to facilitate healing processes.

Energy healing,despite its mystique,has garnered attention from both proponents and skeptics. While scientific evidence supporting its mechanisms remains limited,the practice’s popularity continues to grow. Energy healing operates within the realm of holistic health,considering not just the physical body,but also the subtle energies that contribute to overall well-being. Whether one embraces energy healing as a complementary therapy or remains skeptical,exploring its underlying principles opens the door to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between energy,consciousness,and the human experience.

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What is Gum Contouring?What is Gum Contouring?

Gum contouring,or gingivectomy,improves the look of your gums,your teeth,and your smile. Its used to reshape your gums as either a cosmetic procedure or for health reasons.

Why you should consider gum contouring 

There are a few reasons people opt to have gums cosmetically contoured:

  • Gum tissue covers too much of your teeth resulting in gummy smiles.
  • Correction to a noticeably asymmetrical gumline. A gingivectomy provides a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
  • Gums have receded due by periodontal disease. There are medical benefits to restoring and lengthening gums,including the prevention of future tooth loss

How is gum contouring done?

Whether youre interested in gum contouring for cosmetic or oral health reasons,the procedures are the same. When exposing more of the tooth and evening out gumlines,Dr. Frahm recontours the gumline to create a more attractive smile. To correct a receding gumline,tissue is added to your gums. 

Procedures for gum contouring

Gum reshaping is done with a diode laser to sculpt your gums into the desired shape. From a holistic dentistry standpoint,lasers are considerably more favorable to a patients overall well-being. They are less invasive and result in minimal downtime and less discomfort than procedures using scalpels. 

Dr. Frahm performs laser gum contouring for a few important reasons:

  • Precision results in less pain. High precision lasers are less damaging than scalpels in gum contouring. Lasers also cauterize and seal tissue as they cut,resulting in less discomfort. In addition,lasers minimize swelling which reduces the risk of infection
  • Short procedure. Laser gum contouring takes only about an hour,and the results are immediately visible.
  • Faster recovery. Because lasers cauterize while they work,sutures arent usually required. And cauterization also results shorter recovery times. 

If your gums rest too low or too high on your teeth and you would like to permanently improve your smile,you may be a candidate for gum contouring treatment! Interested in learning more? Click the link below! We look forward to helping you on your journey to a brighter,healthier smile! 

Dr. Sarah Frahm

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