Blog Feed: Chicago Conservative Dentistry

Depending on how much you smoke, you may develop halitosis (bad breath), gum disease, and tooth stains. Smoking also causes oral cancer, which claims 8000 American lives each year. > read more

World Lymphoma Awareness Day

Published on 2011-09-16 12:09:35

Yesterday was World Lymphoma Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of lymphomas and helping you understand why it’s so important to pay attention to what’s going on inside your body. Approximately one million people worldwide are currently living with lymphoma, and nearly 1,000 people are diagnosed with this form of cancer each and [...] > read more

Prescription and Illegal Drugs May Damage Your Oral Health

Published on 2011-09-13 18:16:50

It is estimated that 40 percent of people take at least one drug that may be harmful. > read more

Cholesterol Education Month: What’s Your LDL?

Published on 2011-09-09 11:02:45

As a proponent of conservative, holistic dentistry, Dr. Alfe wants her patients to enjoy long lives and healthy living. While checkups and cleanings, regular daily brushing and flossing, and following through with needed dental care will help you stave off gum disease, which is linked to heart attack, stroke, and a long list of health [...] > read more

How Japanese Foods Help Protect Your Teeth

Published on 2011-09-07 16:57:13

Japan’s healthy, nutrient-rich diet has helped the country achieve the world’s lowest obesity rate. Aside from achieving a trimmer waistline, adopting aspects of the Japanese diet may also prolong the life of your teeth by preventing the accumulation of bacteria. In addition to regular dental cleanings, consuming certain ingredients found in sushi, green tea, and stir-fry [...] > read more

9 Oral Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore: Chronic Bad Breath

Published on 2011-08-26 10:54:05

Are you embarrassed by bad breath? Defeat your halitosis with the help of Dr. Gerilyn Alfe. > read more

12 Steps to Sleeping Better

Published on 2011-08-23 17:17:20

Do you suffer from sleepless nights and foggy days? Try these steps to sleep better. > read more

National Immunization Awareness Month

Published on 2011-08-19 06:00:44

Do you know that we are currently in the midst of National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM)? With students getting ready to go back to school and the upcoming flu season fast approaching, the month of August is a great time to get the topic of immunizations back on peoples’ brains. The twentieth century has bragging [...] > read more

Flawless Smiles Aren’t So Cool

Published on 2011-08-16 11:38:15

A few years ago, it seemed like all of the big Hollywood stars were getting “perfect” smiles. The stars’ smiles all looked the same, as if they stood at the end of an assembly line to have their new teeth installed. At some point, they looked around and decided a “perfect” smile wasn’t perfect after [...] > read more

Your Chicago Dentist Explains Causes of Sensitive Teeth (Part 2)

Published on 2011-07-04 18:06:26

Today, Chicago Smile Spa will inform you about some more of the culprits behind tooth sensitivity. > read more

Your Chicago Dentist Explains Causes of Sensitive Teeth

Published on 2011-07-01 16:52:44

Are sensitive teeth adding discomfort to your daily routine? Understanding common causes of tooth sensitivity can help you alleviate and prevent it. Today, Chicago Smile Spa will inform you about some of the culprits behind tooth sensitivity. Some of > read more

Invisalign: Setting Teeth Straight in Chicago

Published on 2011-06-27 23:35:47

Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, a Chicago cosmetic dentist, can transform your smile with Invisalign clear braces. > read more

Chicago: Have a Blast This Weekend!

Published on 2011-06-24 18:24:53

This weekend is packed full of fun in Chicago, and we want to highlight just a few of the exciting events that will be happening. We invite you to explore activities that are close to you because Chicago has something to offer every resident. > read more

Conscious Sedation: A Safe and Comfortable Way to Beat Dental Fear

Published on 2011-06-22 20:04:42

As common and real as your dental fear is, you shouldn’t let it keep you from visiting the dentist. Dr. Geriyn Alfe, a Chicago dentist, offers safe conscious sedation dentistry to ease your fear and help you relax during your dental visits. > read more

Hookah Smoking: Harmless Trend, Or Dangerous Habit?

Published on 2011-06-17 17:17:33

A tradition originating in the Middle East many centuries ago, the hookah has increasingly become a worldwide fad over the past several years. People of all ages flock to hookah bars across the country, and Chicago has more than its share of the tren > read more

More Tips to Reverse Signs of Aging on Your Smile

Published on 2011-06-13 16:39:59

These dental health tips from Chicago dentist Dr. Gerilyn Alfe can help you prevent dental aging in the form of tooth stains, gum disease, and dry mouth. > read more

Chicago Men: Focus on Your Health This Weekend (and Every Day)

Published on 2011-06-10 11:56:25

Chicago dentist Dr. Gerilyn Alfe encourages men to care for their health and to attend the Men’s Health Expo at Bessemer Park on Saturday, June 11, 2011. > read more

Be Aware of Your Oral Cancer Risk!

Published on 2011-06-06 22:24:15

Learn about oral cancer risks, prevention and detection from Chicago dentist Dr. Gerilyn Alfe. > read more

Protect Your Oral Health This Memorial Day Weekend

Published on 2011-05-27 15:35:59

This Memorial Day weekend, fun and relaxation will probably be the main things on your mind. But if you’re going to spend much time in the sun, you should keep one more thing in mind: sun protection. While you might already apply sunscreen to your > read more

Chicago Smile Makeover Quiz

Published on 2011-05-23 20:58:09

Are you unhappy with your smile? Could your teeth be brighter, straighter, or more even? I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, and I offer a variety of cosmetic dental procedures in my Chicago dental office that can give you the smile you’ve always wanted. > read more

Reverse Signs of Aging on Your Smile

Published on 2011-05-20 15:51:43

Given all the chewing, crunching, biting, and gnashing they do, our teeth are surprisingly durable. Still, everyday wear and tear and the natural aging process take a toll. Here’s what you can do to help slow down the aging process and keep your > read more

Chicago, Quiz Yourself on Porcelain Veneers!

Published on 2011-05-16 23:16:01

When you think of veneers, does a celebrity with a mouth full of fake-looking, blindingly white teeth come to mind? It’s time for you to check the facts. Veneers are much more sophisticated than they were when they were originally invented over 70 > read more

National Women’s Health Week: How Hormones Can Affect Oral Health

Published on 2011-05-13 19:22:01

This week, May 8-14, is National Women’s Health Week, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services wants women and girls to be aware of the ways that they can take care of their health. You should eat a balanced diet, exercise, sleep right, > read more

How Your Chicago Dentist Can Treat Sleep Apnea

Published on 2011-05-09 17:44:20

If you or a loved one snores, the cause could be a case of congestion or exhaustion. But snoring may also signal something more serious, like obstructive sleep apnea. You might think it’s strange for a dentist to discuss sleep disorders, but sleep > read more

Stroke Awareness Month: Could Poor Oral Health Put You at Risk?

Published on 2011-05-06 19:16:38

Do you make dental appointments every six months? If not, you could be putting yourself at risk for cavities, gum disease, and more serious health issues. I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, Chicago dentist, and today I’m going to talk to you about the risk of > read more

Is Your Smile Ready for Summer?

Published on 2011-05-02 14:52:59

Spring is a time to get in shape and shed those winter pounds in preparation for swimsuits and summer clothes. I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, a Chicago dentist, and I offer a variety of services to make your smile look as good as your body! > read more

Namaste, Chicago: Learn How Yoga Can Help You

Published on 2011-04-29 07:15:04

Do you want a fitness routine that can work on a variety of impact levels (from simple stretching to increased muscle tone and endurance)? Are you looking for a way to improve your physical and emotional health? Would you like to move your entire lif > read more

Discover the Benefits of Xylitol, Chicago!

Published on 2011-04-28 17:27:43

Xylitol* has built a positive reputation in the United States over the past several years as a natural sweetener. The sugar alternative is derived from the fibrous parts of fruits and vegetables like berries, corn husks, and mushrooms. German scienti > read more

Chicago Cosmetic Dentist Offers Ozone Treatment for Cavities, Tooth Sensitivity, & More!

Published on 2011-04-27 20:02:25

Ozone has been applied to medicine since 1870, when Dr. Lender used it to purify blood in test tubes. Since then, ozone has been used to treat TMJ disorder, arthritis, acne, allergies, hepatitis, AIDS, and Parkinson’s disease. It is also used to di > read more

How Your Chicago Dentist Defends You Against Cavities

Published on 2011-04-26 16:49:06

I’ve discussed the benefits of fluoride with you in a recent blog, and you know that fluoride can strengthen your tooth enamel. Unfortunately, when tooth enamel becomes stronger, caries (a disease which causes tooth decay) becomes sneakier and find > read more

6 Bad Habits That Can Harm Your Teeth (Part 2)

Published on 2011-04-25 16:32:53

As a cosmetic and preventive dentist in Chicago, it is important to me that my patients take care of their teeth. You could unknowingly damage your teeth with daily bad habits. Last week, I gave you three of the six bad habits. Take a look at the ot > read more

Earth Day Topic: Protecting the Environment and Your Body from Mercury

Published on 2011-04-22 19:37:34

Most of us know about the dangers of mercury. But not everyone is aware of how prevalent the substance is. Traces of mercury can be found in the air, in the water, in plants, and even in our mouths. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently > read more

6 Bad Habits That Can Harm Your Teeth (Part One)

Published on 2011-04-21 20:08:46

As a cosmetic and preventive dentist in Chicago, it is important to me that my patients take care of their teeth. You could unknowingly damage your teeth with daily bad habits. Perhaps you engage in one or more of the following tooth-damaging behavio > read more

Chicago Smile Spa Can Give You a White Wedding!

Published on 2011-04-20 16:28:25

White teeth, that is! In fact, Chicago Smile Spa can make over your entire smile! If you think you have everything you need for your wedding, ask yourself a few questions: Am I unhappy with my smile? Are my teeth white, or more of an off-white or yel > read more

Tips to Make Your Dental Visit More Positive

Published on 2011-04-19 16:32:39

In my Chicago dental office, I offer many options to keep my patients feeling calm and in control. Going to the dentist can be stressful and scary for many people, so I make conscious efforts to make the experience as pleasant as possible. But I’d > read more

How Can Porcelain Veneers Improve Your Smile?

Published on 2011-04-18 13:57:25

An attractive smile is a source of confidence and pride. It opens the door for job opportunities and enables a thriving social life. If you have an unattractive smile, it might stop you from living your life to its fullest. Porcelain veneers can impr > read more

Chicago Smokers: Eat Your Greens!

Published on 2011-04-15 08:05:34

Last week, I posted a blog containing some important oral cancer statistics. What I didn’t tell you is that tobacco use is the number one risk factor for the disease. And I’m not just talking about smoking cigarettes—smoking cigars and pipes, a > read more

The Benefits of Invisalign Clear Braces

Published on 2011-04-14 13:00:27

In my Chicago dental office, I offer many modern procedures to improve the look of your smile. One such procedure is Invisalign, an alternative to traditional metal braces. Invisalign clear braces, like metal braces, can correct unattractive conditio > read more

How Safe is Fluoride?

Published on 2011-04-13 16:04:01

Water fluoridation (adding fluoride to the drinking supply) has been controversial in the United States since the 1940s. During the Cold War, some people claimed public water fluoridation was a communist plot against public health. The safety of fluo > read more

Thinking About Piercing Your Tongue, Chicago? Think Twice

Published on 2011-04-12 16:55:59

You might think that having your tongue, lip, or cheek pierced is a cool way to show off your style and personality. But before you go under the needle, make sure that you know the oral health risks involved with those piercings. The risks of oral pi > read more

Getting a new smile is a snap!

Published on 2011-04-11 15:30:30

At my Chicago dental office, I help patients who want to improve their smiles without a lot of prep work or down time. They often choose Snap-On Smile, a revolutionary dental appliance that doesn’t require prepping, injections, or adhesives. > read more

Your Chicago Dentist Explains the Importance of Vitamin D

Published on 2011-04-08 14:30:45

You probably know what vitamin D is. It’s the nutrient you absorb from exposure to sunlight. With the fear of skin cancer keeping us in the shade, and busy lifestyles keeping us indoors for most of the day, it’s hard to get enough vitamin D. You > read more

Replace Your Water Bottle, Replace Your Metal Fillings and Crowns

Published on 2011-04-07 17:31:37

Reports on the dangers of Bisphenol A (often called BPA), a chemical commonly found in hard plastics and the coatings of food and drink cans, began surfacing a few years ago. Last year, the FDA voiced concerns about the dangers of BPA for children, i > read more

Learn the Facts on Oral Cancer from Your Chicago Dentist

Published on 2011-04-06 16:10:13

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month and I have a quiz to help you learn some important facts about this serious disease: 1. How many Americans die from oral cancer every year? (Hint: If you read yesterday’s post and do some math, you can figure th > read more

Why Your Chicago Dentist Wants to Give You Regular Dental Cleanings

Published on 2011-04-05 14:47:07

You know the basic at-home steps to keep your teeth clean: brush at least twice a day and floss at least once daily. You might even use an anti-plaque rinse. So what’s missing? A professional cleaning could be missing. Even if you brush and floss p > read more

Tooth-Healthy Food Tips from Your Chicago Dentist

Published on 2011-04-04 17:11:04

Eating a balanced diet is tough for busy families and workaholics. With increasing levels of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other serious health issues in America, healthy eating is imperative. I have another reason for you to watch what you e > read more

Dr. Alfe’s at the ACE Meeting in Tampa, FL Today

Published on 2011-04-01 12:24:12

For years, ACE has been an integral part of my growth and development, and I'm happy to have been on the board a few years ago. Through ACE, I learn, and I also help other dentists by sharing information about my experience. > read more

A Few Unknown Facts about Sleep Apnea

Published on 2011-03-31 04:30:01

Do you know what sleep apnea is and how it’s caused? If you look it up online, it is likely that you will find results for symptoms like being excessively tired during daytime hours, waking up several times during the night, having headaches throug > read more

A Conservative Way to Repair Your Bite

Published on 2011-03-29 16:24:43

The way your teeth fit together greatly impacts the way your mouth works. For many people, this can be a source of stress, and a poor bite, frequent teeth grinding, and constant jaw clenching can cause serious damage and pain to your teeth, jawbone, > read more

An Inside Look at Your Overall Health

Published on 2011-03-25 14:20:07

I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe of Chicago Smile Spa, and, as a dentist, I’m interested in the human body as a whole and want to help my patients lead healthy lives. Part of living a healthy lifestyle is knowing all about how your body works. That’s wh > read more

Don’t Let Teeth Grinding Get You Down

Published on 2011-03-24 23:06:29

Roughly 20 percent of adults grind or clench their teeth. If you are one of these grinders, chances are you are doing more damage to your teeth than you thought possible. Often, teeth grinding and clenching can result in permanent tooth and jaw damag > read more

Don’t Let Teeth Grinding Get You Down

Published on 2011-03-23 23:06:29

Stop Snoring and Get Some Rest!

Published on 2011-03-23 12:14:31

As a Chicago dentist, I’ve studied dental sleep medicine, so I offer sleep apnea and snoring treatment. Up to 25% of Americans may suffer from sleep apnea, according to research. Symptoms include snoring, feeling tired during the day, forgetfulness > read more

Probiotics for Better Health

Published on 2011-03-22 21:14:13

Oral probiotics can protect your mouth, gums, teeth, and throat from bad bacteria that cause inflamed tissue, decay, and bad breath. I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe of Chicago Smile Spa, and I offer the probiotic EvoraPro. > read more

Probiotics for Better Health

Published on 2011-03-21 21:14:13

Ozone Protects the Planet and Reverses Oral Disease

Published on 2011-03-21 13:53:22

But that’s ozone in the atmosphere, and I want to introduce you to ozone in dentistry. In Europe, ozone for dental treatment has been used for decades – because it works. As a conservative dentist, I believe in using natural and biocompatible su > read more

25 Million Americans Suffer from Dry Mouth

Published on 2011-03-18 14:34:24

According to the National Institute of Dental Research, half of Americans will experience dry mouth at some point in their life. Approximately 25 million suffer from dry mouth at any given time. Symptoms include soreness of the mouth, stickiness, cra > read more

Don’t be a metal mouth!

Published on 2011-03-18 04:33:44

Dark, amalgam fillings were once the norm when it came to restoring damaged and decaying teeth, but, now, there is a natural, safer, and cosmetically appealing solution. Bonded composite fillings and restorations are a wonderful alternative to dan > read more

The Clear Choice for a Beautiful Smile

Published on 2011-03-15 11:36:06

Sometimes, achieving a beautiful smile doesn’t require a long list of cosmetic dental procedures. Sometimes, straighter teeth are the answer, and now, it is easier than ever to straighten your teeth without enduring the burden of traditional metal > read more

Snap On a Brand New Smile

Published on 2011-03-12 22:17:44

The great thing about cosmetic dentistry is that there are countless procedures available to get the beautiful smile you have been wanting. When considering cosmetic dentistry, it is important to remember that you have specific needs and dental goals > read more

3D Scanning Offers a Futuristic, More Comfortable Alternative

Published on 2011-03-11 13:55:20

As a dentist, I am always amazed by the technological advances being made in the dental world. Dental procedures are constantly being updated, and now it is even possible to get a brand new smile in just one day. Up until recently, dental technici > read more

Whitening Your Smile is as Easy as 1, 2, 3!

Published on 2011-03-10 17:31:55

Believe it or not, teeth whitening is the most popular and requested cosmetic dental procedure. For most people teeth whitening is a way to give new life to their smile without the commitment of more permanent cosmetic dentistry. I’m Dr. Gerilyn > read more

March Madness

Published on 2011-03-08 15:16:13

Like the winter weather, we are going and blowing at Chicago Smile Spa. I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, and I just got back from the Chicago Midwinter Dental meeting where I instructed hands-on sessions with other dentists regarding the E4D in-office crown-m > read more

Before and Beautiful After: Porcelain Veneers

Published on 2011-03-07 09:15:55

Veneers are the miracle cure for any smile. People who need whitening, bonding, braces, crowns, and/or recontouring can avoid multiple procedures with porcelain veneers. In just two or three visits, veneers transform a smile. > read more

Oral Cancer Screenings Can Save Your Life

Published on 2011-03-04 09:46:14

New research has proven that oral sex increases the risk of oral cancer. In addition to this, oral sex carries many of the same risks as sexual intercourse, including human papillomavirus (HPV). It looks like HPV may now be overtaking tobacco as the > read more

Have Your Sleep Study in the Comfort of Your Own Home

Published on 2011-03-03 16:18:51

Any kind of sleep disorder can be hard to overcome. I can be a process to even diagnose the problem, let alone get proper treatment for it. I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, and I treat sleep apnea patients in my Chicago office. I can help you beat your sle > read more

A Comfortable Option for Sleep Studies

Published on 2011-03-01 16:09:55

Sleep apnea can be tricky. Sometimes, it can be hard to tell if you have full-blown sleep apnea or a severe snoring habit. The best way to diagnose sleep apnea is by having a sleep study done, but it can be near-impossible to sleep > read more

CloSYS for Fresh Breath and Great Periodontal Health

Published on 2011-02-28 16:58:12

CloSYS is a complete oral health system that includes alcohol-free mouth rinse, SLS-free toothpaste, and breath spray (for touch-ups). These products kill 99% of anaerobic bacteria, periodontal pathogens, and volatile sulfer compounds -- the ingredie > read more

Dr. Alfe takes Chicago Midwinter by Storm

Published on 2011-02-25 14:28:01

I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, and I’m working hard at the Chicago Dental Midwinter Meeting. Today, I have the privilege of giving other dentists hands-on training about an amazing machine called the E4D. I love using the E4D, an in-office milling device, > read more

Dr. Alfe to Speak at Chicago Midwinter Meeting

Published on 2011-02-22 15:25:10

This week kicks off the 146th Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting! I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe of Chicago Smile Spa, and I have been invited to speak at the convention. I will be speaking about a unique dental technology called the E4D. The E4D is > read more

Be Pampered at Chicago Smile Spa

Published on 2011-02-18 12:44:01

I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe of Chicago Smile Spa, and I want you to know one thing about my practice and my team: we listen. As my patient, you are entrusting your smile and your health to me, and that’s not something I take lightly. My team and I wi > read more

The Connection Between your Teeth and your Sinuses

Published on 2011-02-15 15:17:48

Spring is in the air! I can feel it coming, I promise! Some parts of the country are beginning to experience the first signs of spring. Flowers are beginning to bloom, the days are starting to get longer, and sinus infections are popping up out of no > read more

Don’t Forget to Love Your Teeth this Valentine’s Day

Published on 2011-02-11 12:18:33

It’s that time of year again. Pink and red-wrapped candy has been lining the aisles of most stores for almost a month now. Heart-adorned decorations are everywhere to be found, and it’s difficult to miss the lovey-dovey greeting cards that are po > read more

No-Prep Veneers for a New Smile

Published on 2011-02-08 16:08:17

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Porcelain veneers are a great way to get a beautiful smile out of one cosmetic dental procedure. These quality porcelain shells adhere directly to your teeth, and have the power to correct flaws such as > read more

Celebrate Dental Health Month with Chicago Smile Spa!

Published on 2011-02-03 18:00:12

February is Dental Health Month, and, here at Chicago Smile Spa, we invite you to celebrate with us! I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, and my team and I invite you to make an appointment if you are in need to a dental checkup. Regular dental exams and clean > read more

A Whiter Smile On the Go

Published on 2011-02-01 17:45:30

I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe of Chicago Smile Spa, and I am always looking for ways to help my patients achieve a bright, white smile. Did you know that teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dental procedure? It’s true. It is also important to k > read more

Eat, Play, Love – in Chicago!

Published on 2011-01-28 09:04:33

Whether it’s your first time to visit the “The City of Neighborhoods”, or you’re a lifelong Chicagoan, this guide is a must have! Research teams scoured every neighborhood in search of restaurants, shops, landmarks, and other tourism sites. > read more

We Want You to be Informed

Published on 2011-01-25 15:54:06

I’m Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, and, as a Chicago-area dentist, I know the importance of conveniently maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile. Here at Chicago Smile Spa, my team and I are proud to offer a number of cosmetic, hygienic, and restorative dental s > read more

Les Miserables returns to the Cadillac Palace Theatre!

Published on 2011-01-21 04:26:58

Theatre : Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago Illinois Dates : February 02, 2011 – February 27, 2011 Cameron Mackintosh presents a brand new 25th anniversary production of Boublil & Schonberg’s legendary musical, LES MISERABLES, with gloriou > read more

Introducing a New Option for a Bright, White Smile

Published on 2011-01-19 11:05:26

Did you know that teeth whitening is the most popular cosmetic procedure? It’s true! Teeth whitening is a great way to get a bright, white smile, which can instantly make you look younger and healthier. Countless whitening systems are available > read more

The Chicago Bears could go all the way!

Published on 2011-01-16 16:11:44

The Chicago Bears handled the Seattle Seahawks, 35-24, at Soldier Field Sunday afternoon, earning them a date with the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship Game at 2 p.m. next Sunday. The winner of next weeks game will then be on their way to > read more

Conservative Porcelain Veneers at Chicago Smile Spa

Published on 2011-01-10 14:22:14

The procedure of placing porcelain veneers is not always performed with tooth structure preservation in mind – a conservative approach. > read more

Snow Days Chicago: January 26th – 30th

Published on 2011-01-09 15:58:39

Mark your calendars because you won’t want to miss this year’s Snow Days Chicago. This free winter festival features 15 teams of professional sculptors creating their masterpieces at Gateway Park located just west of the entrance to Navy Pier. Th > read more

That Clenches It! Stress Bad for Your Health and Mouth

Published on 2011-01-04 13:10:47

If you’ve endured huge amounts of stress over the past few months, you aren’t alone. The holidays tend to me more stressful than any other time of year. Money, family, and commitments can spin completely out of control. Then, January comes along > read more

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Blog Feed: Chicago Conservative Dentistry

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