Take a look at our November newsletter!
THE
BRUSH - UP
ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM | NOVEMBER 2024
THANKSGIVING IN OUR HOME A Mix of Family, Friends, and Favorite Recipes
Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that just feels extra special in our home. It’s not just about the food (though, trust me, we love the food); it’s about the memories we create and the time we spend together as a family. Thanksgiving allows us to slow down and soak in the simple moments. It’s a time we celebrate with a big feast and reflect on everything we’re grateful for, making it one of my absolute favorite times of the year. And this year, we’ve got a few traditions that make it even more memorable. We often host at our house, and it’s become one of my favorite holidays to gather everyone together. Over the last few years, we’ve added a Friendsgiving tradition, too, so we get to celebrate with family and close friends. It also gives us an excuse to use our fancy table decorations twice. Our Thanksgiving meal happens more around lunchtime, but the fun starts in the morning when we head out for a friendly football game with friends or a “Turkey Bowl” match-up. One of our favorite Thanksgiving dishes is something that’s been passed down in our family: orange rolls. My grandma used to make them, and although she wasn’t much of a cook, she nailed these orange rolls every year. They were always the first thing to disappear. Now, I’ve taken over the tradition and even doubled the recipe and quadrupled the filling, because there was never enough! They’re similar to cinnamon rolls but with a sweet orange twist, and they’re amazing
— but don’t take my word for it. Check out the recipe on page 3 of this newsletter and make them for your family this year!
We’ve turned the orange rolls into a breakfast treat, enjoying them the morning of Thanksgiving. My wife, Jessica, insists on traditional rolls with our turkey dinner, so we get the best of both worlds! And speaking of our favorite foods, we’ve adopted a new family tradition: a sweet potato praline bake. We’re not big fans of candied sweet potatoes, but we were hooked after trying this dish at a church event. It’s become a must-have on our Thanksgiving table, and we’ve even converted some of our extended family to this recipe over time. I’m pretty hands-on in the kitchen, but I wouldn’t call myself a master chef. I’m more of a recipe guy — give me instructions, and I can follow them like a pro. I’ve made the orange rolls my special contribution and perfected them over the years. I also do my fair share of cleaning up, so I earn my keep in the kitchen during the holidays. One of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is when we sit down for dinner, and everyone takes turns sharing something they’re thankful for. It can be anything, big or small, and it’s always heartwarming to hear what sticks out in our kids’ minds. Sometimes, it’s something as simple as a birthday present or a special playdate, but it’s a good reminder that the little moments we might not think twice about can make a big impact. And, of course, the adults are ready for a nap after all that food, but the kids? Not so much. They’re bouncing off the walls with all the sugar in their systems. We usually put on “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” or pull out one of our Thanksgiving books to keep them entertained while we recover. Thanksgiving isn’t just an incredible meal but a chance to slow down, reflect, and connect with the people we love. We cherish the opportunity to spend time with family and friends, share great food, and express our gratitude for all the blessings in our lives. It’s those traditions, both old and new, that make this holiday so special to us every year.
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Does Cold Weather Affect Your Teeth? HOW TO HANDLE TOOTH SENSITIVITY THIS FALL AND WINTER
Nothing is better than spending an afternoon playing with your kids and enjoying their company. However, finding a game or activity that keeps their attention and focus can be challenging. That’s when we have to get creative to find something fun and new for our kids. One solution that keeps kids engaged is creating unique items using ingredients from around the house. We’re not talking about the standard arts and crafts here! Younger kids love playing with Play-Doh, but you don’t have to go to the store to pick it up. You can make a few different versions with everyday household items. Your kids will love creating and playing with the dough. Here are a few options you can try the next time your kids want something to do. Just remember to supervise your kids during these activities! CLOUD DOUGH AND SLIME RECIPES ORDINARY INGREDIENTS, EXTRAORDINARY FUN
When the cold weather hits, you may notice that the crisp air nips at your nose and makes your teeth ache. If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain in your teeth when biting into something cold or being exposed to cold winds, it’s likely due to tooth sensitivity. This sensitivity can be heightened during the fall and winter seasons for a number of reasons, and it’s important to know how to handle it. WHY COLD WEATHER HURTS YOUR TEETH Tooth sensitivity arises when the protective layer of your teeth, known as enamel, wears down, exposing the more sensitive inner layers. Cold air or cold foods can trigger pain when they come into contact with these sensitive areas. In the fall and winter, even just breathing in cold air can cause discomfort for those with sensitive teeth. WINTER BEHAVIORS THAT CAN IMPACT TOOTH SENSITIVITY It’s not just the cold air that affects your teeth — our habits during colder months can also contribute to increased sensitivity. For instance, many people clench their jaws more often in response to cold weather, which can put additional pressure on teeth and lead to discomfort. Additionally, sipping on hot drinks like coffee or tea may seem comforting, but the acidity in these beverages can wear down enamel over time, making your teeth even more sensitive. TOOTH SENSITIVITY AND WINTER ILLNESSES Fall and winter are also the peak seasons for respiratory illnesses like colds and sinus infections. When you have a cold or sinusitis, mucus can build up and obstruct your sinuses, which can cause pressure in your face and lead to tooth pain. If you’re experiencing a toothache, nasal congestion, and other cold symptoms, your sinuses may be the culprit rather than your teeth. WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PROTECT YOUR TEETH THIS SEASON You can take a few simple steps to manage tooth sensitivity during the colder months. Using a toothpaste specifically created for sensitive teeth can help strengthen enamel and reduce discomfort. Additionally, wearing a scarf or mask to cover your mouth outside can shield your teeth from cold air. Be wary of clenching your teeth, and try to limit acidic beverages that could worsen sensitivity. If you’re struggling with tooth pain this fall, don’t hesitate to contact our team. With the right care, you can keep your teeth healthy and comfortable all season long!
CLOUD DOUGH If you want to try a soft and fluffy alternative to Play-Doh, you’ll love creating cloud dough. You’ll need an unscented hair conditioner or one with a scent
your children enjoy, food coloring, and
cornstarch. Combine a half cup of conditioner, 4 drops of food coloring, and 1 cup of cornstarch, and mix it all in a bowl. Once it becomes hard to mix, start kneading the dough
with your hands until it’s smooth and cloud-like. That’s all there is to it. When
your kids finish playing with their cloud dough, squeeze all the air from it and place it in an airtight container to ensure it maintains its form and stays workable. You can also replace the conditioner with yogurt if you’re worried about your little one trying to sneak a taste. SLIME Want something a bit gooier? Then let’s make some slime! Start by combining one 4-ounce bottle of school glue with 2 tablespoons of contact lens solution. Then, add 1–2 cups of shaving cream, depending on how thick you want your slime. Knead it together until it’s no longer sticky, and you’re good to go!
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Be Sure to Follow These Steps!
Grandma Hurst’s Orange Rolls ADAPTED BY THE BROOKS FAMILY VIA THE STAY AT HOME CHEF
DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS
Dough •
1. Combine milk, orange juice, yeast, sugar, salt, butter, and eggs in a stand mixer. 2. Gradually add flour and mix on low with a dough hook; gradually increase speed to medium until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be soft but not stick to your hands. 3. Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel and let rise for one hour or until doubled in size.
1/2 cup warm milk (100-110 degrees F)
• • • • • • •
1/2 cup orange juice 1 Tbsp instant dry yeast 1 Tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
3 Tbsp salted butter, softened
1 large egg
3 to 3 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Filling •
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
4. Spray 9x13 pan with cooking spray. Roll dough out onto a clean surface to form a 12x18” rectangle. 5. In a small bowl, combine all filling ingredients. Spread in an even layer on top of the dough rectangle. Roll dough tightly lengthwise into one long roll. 6. Use dental floss (you’re welcome!) to slice the roll in 12 to 14 even rounds. Place the rounds into a 9x13 pan. Cover and let rise for 30–45 minutes. 7. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake for 20-25 minutes until slightly brown on top. 8. For the glaze (if desired), use a hand mixer to whisk cream cheese and butter in a bowl until light and fluffy. Then, add powdered sugar and orange extract. Stir in orange juice until the glaze reaches the desired consistency (it should be spreadable, not drippy). Put the glaze on the rolls when they are still warm out of the oven.
• •
1 cup granulated sugar
2 Tbsp orange zest
Orange Glaze (optional) •
4 oz cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
• • • •
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp orange extract, optional
1 to 2 Tbsp orange juice
TAKE A BREAK
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows WHAT ARE ANDERSON DENTAL CARE’S BUSINESS HOURS DURING THE THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY? Our office will be closed on Nov. 27 and 28, and we will reopen with regular business hours on Dec. 2. WHEN SHOULD I START SCHEDULING END-OF-YEAR DENTAL APPOINTMENTS? Now! If you have insurance benefits you want to use before the end of the year, now is the time to schedule your appointment. If you’re unsure whether or not your benefits apply, just give our office a call! WHAT IS A SAND DOLLAR? It’s an animal! Sand dollars are flattened sea urchins that live on the sandy seafloor. These star-stamped creatures can live for six to ten years before washing up on the seashore! WHAT IS THE ONLY VEGETABLE THAT IS NEVER SOLD FROZEN? Lettuce! Not only is it never sold frozen, but you’ll never find lettuce canned, processed, cooked, or in any form but fresh. WHAT U.S. PRESIDENT NEVER MARRIED? The 15th President of the United States (1857–1861), James Buchanan, was the only president who remained a bachelor his whole life. While he was engaged at 28 in 1819, he broke off the engagement for unknown reasons and remained single for the rest of his days.
APPLE BASKETBALL BLACK FRIDAY FIREPLACE
GRATITUDE LEAVES NAP PARADE
PIE STUFFING TURKEY VETERAN
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ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
513-231-7755 WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
7525 STATE RD., STE. A CINCINNATI, OH 45255
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1 2
Why Thanksgiving Traditions Matter
Homemade Play-Doh Alternatives for Endless Kid Entertainment
Protect Your Teeth From the Chill
3
Grandma Hurst’s Orange Rolls
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
4
Why November Is More Fascinating Than You Think
THE NOVEMBER YOU NEVER KNEW THIS MONTH’S SURPRISING FACTS AND HISTORICAL MOMENTS
Welcome November, the hidden gem nestled between Halloween excitement and festive December! This autumn-to-winter month is packed with history and quirky facts that might just make you see these 30 days in a new light. Imagine a time when November was not the eleventh month but the ninth. That’s right! The early Roman calendar listed November as “ novem ,” the Latin word for nine. That is until January and February crashed the calendar party and pushed November further back. Speaking of which, don’t forget the ritual of turning back the clocks. This year, on Nov. 5 at 2 a.m., we bid adieu to Daylight Saving Time. Make sure to roll back your clocks an hour before you hit the bed on Nov. 4 (or let your smartphone do it for you). It’s the perfect excuse to enjoy that extra hour of sleep or indulge in a midnight snack a little longer. Rewind to Nov. 1, 1848, when the Boston Female Medical School first opened its doors to a mere 12 students. Initiated by Samuel Gregory, this all-female institute eventually merged with the Boston University School
of Medicine to become one of the first co-ed medical schools in America — a monumental stride toward gender equality in education. Fast forward to Nov. 4, 1922, a day that etched itself into the annals of history when British archaeologist Howard Carter discovered the nearly intact tomb of King Tutankhamun in Luxor, Egypt.
The treasures unearthed are now key attractions at the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, captivating visitors with tales from millennia ago.
And let’s not overlook a significant moment in American history: President Abraham Lincoln’s delivery of the Gettysburg Address on Nov. 19, 1863. Despite battling a mild case of smallpox, Lincoln delivered a poignant, two-minute speech that would echo the virtues of democracy for generations to come. Curiously, while William Shakespeare created 37 plays and 154 sonnets, he never once mentioned November in his works. It appears that even the Bard couldn’t find anything rhyme-worthy about this month!
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