Take a look at our May 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 | MAY 2024
I’m sure most of us are often preoccupied with our busy schedules, work responsibilities, and the general chaos of life. But when Memorial Day approaches, it’s a time for everyone to stop the usual hustle and bustle to practice remembrance and gratitude for those who have served our country. Memorial Day is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices others have made for our freedoms, a tradition deeply rooted in our nation’s history and the genealogy of families like mine. Understanding my roots and genealogy in general has always been fascinating to me. This includes the origins of Memorial Day and recognizing the people who fought for their beliefs. It’s more than just a holiday; it’s a day to reflect on our history and the people who shaped the freedoms we enjoy today. My interest in genealogy has only deepened this appreciation, and I believe it’s incredibly vital that we know where we come from and honor those who have paved the way for us. In my wife’s family, Memorial Day has always been a day of remembrance, not just for service members but for all deceased family members. Her paternal grandmother spearheaded this tradition as she turned Memorial Day into an occasion to honor her ancestors. They visit the graves of family members, cleaning off the graves and adorning them with wreaths, flowers, and pinwheels. It’s a gesture of respect and remembrance, a physical representation of our gratitude and remembrance through Labor Day, when they revisit the graves to remove the items in preparation for winter season. Because she lives in Idaho, we haven’t always been able to join her for this event, but the respect and remembrance she instilled in my wife throughout her childhood is something we’re trying to pass on to our own children. In recent years, our Memorial Day celebrations have included attending the local parade and participating in the program at Spring Grove Cemetery, which hosts gun salutes and other commemorative events. These activities are a powerful reminder of the day’s true meaning and allow us to instill these values in our kids. REMEMBERING OUR ROOTS AND THE SACRIFICES MADE FOR OUR FREEDOM How We Honor Heroes and Heritage
The day is also about coming together as a family. After paying our respects, we gather for a big family barbecue, celebrating life and the freedoms we are fortunate to have. It’s a time of joy amidst the solemnity, a way to unite everyone and reinforce the importance of family and community. Raising awareness about the significance of Memorial Day among my children has been challenging but essential. While it’s difficult for young kids to fully grasp the depth of this day, as they grow, they begin to understand and appreciate the sacrifices made for our country. I hope these Memorial Day memories will stay with them, nurturing a sense of gratitude and respect for those who have served. We blend tradition with respect, remembrance, and celebration to make Memorial Day meaningful as we reflect on our past, appreciate the present, and educate future generations. This Memorial Day, as we enjoy our red, white, and blue barbecue and the company of loved ones, let’s take a moment to remember the reason behind the day. Let’s honor those who have served with gratitude and keep alive the memories of those who have passed, ensuring their sacrifices and stories are never forgotten.
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HOW WE PRIORITIZE MENTAL HEALTH IN DENTAL CARE A Safe Space for Smiles May shines a light on a crucial aspect of our lives: mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month is a time to reflect on how our emotional and mental well-being intertwine with every facet of our health, including dental care. At our clinic, we’ve noticed how directly mental health influences oral health, manifesting in different ways, from stress-induced dental issues to changes in oral hygiene habits. MENTAL HEALTH RISK FACTORS When it comes to mental and physical health, the connection is especially evident in dental health. Stress, for instance, can lead to teeth clenching during sleep, a sign that might go unnoticed until it manifests in dental issues. It’s common for patients to visit us, unaware of their stress, until we spot the telltale signs in their dental health. Life’s stressors, personal illness, or caring for a loved one can inadvertently affect our dietary choices. A shift toward sugary snacks or increased caffeine intake, often sought for comfort or a quick energy boost, can immediately affect our oral health. Moreover, certain prescription medications can alter the mouth’s microbiome, further complicating oral hygiene. ALWAYS A JUDGMENT-FREE ZONE We understand that during these times, maintaining a regular brushing and flossing routine can feel like an impossible task. That’s why we’re here to support you, offering tips and strategies tailored to make oral care more manageable. Our goal is to work alongside you, ensuring your oral health doesn’t fall by the wayside, regardless of the mental health challenges you may face. In our office, we strive to create a judgment-free zone. It’s crucial for us that our patients feel comfortable and supported, especially during their toughest times. Recognizing that mental health issues can affect anyone, we approach each case without judgment. After all, our team, family, and friends have all faced similar challenges at one point or another.
Gear Up Your Pup for a Hiking Adventure PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must- have hiking gear for your canine companion. FOOD AND WATER One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks. FIRST-AID KIT Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse. BOOTS While some dogs may resist wearing boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed. WASTE BAGS Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. EMERGENCY HARNESS Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s acknowledge the deep
connection between mental well-being and oral health. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Whether you’re facing a challenging period or looking for ways to manage stress better,
we’re here to help. Together, we can ensure taking care of your mental health means taking care of your oral health.
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YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS WILL ANDERSON DENTAL CARE BE OPEN ON MEMORIAL DAY? No, our office will be closed on Memorial Day so our team can spend the holiday with loved ones. Of course, we will be back up and running on Tuesday! WHO WAS THE ACTOR INSIDE R2-D2 IN “STAR WARS”? The iconic droid was played by Kenny Baker, a circus performer who stood at 3 feet, 8 inches tall. Baker was performing alongside fellow actor Jack Purvis when “Star Wars” director George Lucas hired him to perform inside R2-D2 in 1977! WHAT WAS THE FIRST DISNEY ANIMATED MOVIE? The very first animated Disney movie was “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” which premiered at the Carthay Circle Theatre in Los Angeles, California, in 1937. DO TORNADOES MAKE SOUND? While the sound of tornadoes can range from slight rumbles to a freight train, they also produce “infrasound,” which are low-frequency soundwaves humans can’t hear. Tornadoes can emit these soundwaves an hour before they even form, which explains why some animals can detect a storm earlier than us! SPRING INTO WELLNESS Spring is the season of renewal and rejuvenation, so there’s no better time to revitalize your health and wellness routine. New routines can boost your motivation and keep you engaged. From workouts to diet, it’s time to get out and take advantage of the sunshine! GET OUTSIDE Winter is fierce, unrelenting, and notorious for derailing outdoor fitness routines. It’s finally warm enough to exercise outside, so mix things up and get outside. Jump on a bike and ride through the wind. Slip on your jogging shoes and run through the neighborhood. Put on your swimsuit and head to the pool. Nature is full of challenging and fun activities, so take advantage of the warm weather before the next winter arrives. SPICE UP YOUR ROUTINE If you’re into yoga or weight training, try new exercises. A new routine ensures you won’t miss any muscles while keeping you engaged. When the treadmill becomes a dreadmill, do your cardio on an elliptical or stationary bike. Grab some free weights if you’re starting to find weight machines dull. There’s always an alternative to keep things interesting. FIND FRIENDS A workout buddy can keep you invested in your routine. They’ll keep you motivated and accountable — it’s much harder to skip a workout if
REFRESHING WAYS TO REVITALIZE YOUR HEALTH ROUTINE
someone’s relying on you. Even better, a partner can keep you safe if you’re weight training. Consider enrolling in a class if you have trouble finding someone to work out with. Not only can you learn new fitness tips and tricks, but you can also make friends.
SPRINGIFY YOUR DIET Winter typically involves plenty of warm comfort meals, such as soups and hot chocolate, but spring is blooming with other options. It offers an array of refreshing and delightfully light dishes. Strawberries, pineapples, and avocados are best these months, along with many other delicious foods perfect for salads and smoothies. Shake up spring and keep to your regimen. There’s no better time to build healthy habits, especially in May’s warm weather. Take a jog with a friend, and afterward, enjoy a strawberry smoothie, and you’ll surely have an exceptional season.
PAN-ROASTED SWEET POTATOES AND TEMPEH Inspired by BonAppetit.com
DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS
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1/2 cup vegetable oil 2 shallots, thinly sliced 2 chipotle chiles in adobo, coarsely chopped 1 8-oz block tempeh, crumbled into small pieces
1. Place rack in bottom third of oven; preheat to 425 F. In large cast-iron skillet over high heat, add oil and cook shallots, chiles, and tempeh until oil is sizzling; reduce heat to medium and cook until tempeh is golden brown, 8–10 minutes. 2. Set a sieve over a large heatproof bowl, drain tempeh, and season with salt. Set aside tempeh. 3. Add potatoes to bowl with oil mixture and season with salt; turn to coat. Arrange potatoes cut side down in skillet; set bowl of oil aside. Roast potatoes in oven until browned, 25–30 minutes. 4. To bowl with oil mixture, add apple, zest, juice, and cilantro and toss to coat. 5. Transfer potatoes to a platter. Spoon tempeh mixture over top with apple salad.
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Salt to taste
4 medium sweet potatoes, halved lengthwise 1 small crisp apple, coarsely chopped Zest and juice of 1/2 lime 1/3 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
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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
Our Family’s Commitment to Memorial Day’s True Meaning
2
Paws and Paths!
How Your Mental Health Impacts Your Dental Health Rejuvenate Your Routine With 4 Spring Wellness Changes
3
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Pan-Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Tempeh
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A Journey Through May’s Historical Gems
MAY’S HISTORICAL FOOTPRINTS FROM BABE RUTH’S FIRST HOME RUN TO THE EVEREST CONQUEST
THE GOLDEN SPIKE CEREMONY On May 10, 1869, the final spike was driven into the ground at Promontory Summit, Utah, completing the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S. This monumental achievement connected the East and West Coasts of the country, revolutionizing transportation and commerce. An engraving on the spike reads, “May God continue the unity of our Country as this Railroad unites the two great Oceans of the world. Presented David Hewes, San Francisco.” THE MOUNT EVEREST CONQUEST On May 29, 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay, a Sherpa of Nepal, became the first climbers to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain. Their historic achievement
Every month holds a treasure trove of history and fascinating facts, and May has too many to count! May is not just about flowers blooming and warmer weather; it’s also a month filled with events that have shaped the world we live in today. Let’s journey back in time and explore some of May’s biggest happenings. BABE RUTH HITS HIS FIRST HOME RUN On May 6, 1915, future baseball Hall of Famer Babe Ruth, then a rookie pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, hit his first home run. The blast occurred at the Polo Grounds in New York City against the New York Yankees. Ruth’s mighty swing and impressive performance on the field would later earn him the nickname “The Bambino” and establish him as one of the greatest baseball players ever. NAPOLEON BONAPARTE BECOMES EMPEROR In May 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and statesman, declared himself Emperor of the French. This event marked the climax of Napoleon’s rise to power and the beginning of his reign as one of the most influential figures in European history. While he would uplift France from the devastating aftermath of the revolution, his determination to conquer Europe led to his downfall.
opened up a new era of mountaineering and exploration. While the world was dying to know who stepped foot on the summit first, Hillary and Norgay agreed that they wouldn’t reveal who it was, as it doesn’t necessarily signify who was a better climber.
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