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FOR A BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILE
ELKINSDENTAL.COM FEBRUARY 2026
Social Media Has Given Everyday Musicians a Seat at the Table
This month, Facebook turned 22! It’s now old enough to grab a drink, rent a car (almost), and officially be considered “not just a phase.” This milestone jumped out at me a bit, not so much because of Facebook itself, but because of what it represents about social media as a whole. You can love it or hate it, but it’s certainly changed everything! That realization really hit me over Christmas break this year when my son came up from Texas. He’s a lot like me in one very specific way: He’s an avid singer. And when I say avid, I mean he’s great. He plays guitar and a little ukulele, too, but singing is his thing. So, before he even arrived, I had this idea in my head: I wanted to record a song with him. I went all in. I prepped everything and recorded the guitars, drums, and bass. By the time he showed up, the song was basically sitting there, patiently waiting for his voice. While he was home for Christmas, we recorded his vocals, filmed a video, and just had an absolute blast doing it. It was one of those moments I wish I could have bottled up and saved forever! Now, that song is live on all music platforms, and the video is even out on YouTube! Just like that, something we created in a small, personal moment is out there for the world to hear. That’s wild when you stop and think about it. Now, don’t get me wrong. I really dislike some things about social media. I hate that people can hide behind a screen and say rude, hurtful things without consequences. The distance and anonymity bring out the worst in some people. That part of social media is exhausting and, honestly, pretty sad, but there is another side to it. Without social media, I wouldn’t be in touch with many people from my past. The funny thing is that I wasn’t close to some of those people at all growing up, but we’re closer now. We’ve aged, grown,
changed, and realized we have way more in common than we ever did as teenagers. Social media gave us the space to reconnect, chat, and build relationships that wouldn’t have existed otherwise. However, my favorite aspect of social media is its impact on the music industry. Small- time musicians don’t have to
beg a giant record label for approval anymore. We don’t need some music executive telling us we’re “not good enough” or “not marketable enough.” Anyone can record their music and put it out there, and that’s pretty incredible. I’ve got a regular day job, as I’m sure you know, and I do music on the side because I love it. My brother and I have recorded music together, and it’s out there on Spotify, Apple Music, and all the large streaming platforms. We’re not Taylor Swift, but we don’t need to be. We have a small fan base and get that same sense of accomplishment that comes from sharing something you created with the world. Even better, I’ve become a fan of so many small artists, just like me, whom I would never have discovered without these platforms. They’re regular average Joes putting their music out there. That’s the magic. That’s why I’m so excited for my son. We only had a couple of days together, so we got one song done, but now it lives out there in the world. People can listen to it, share it, and enjoy it. His artist name is RU55L, which looks just like his name, Russell, just spelled a little differently. Facebook may be 22 now, but its impact is still unfolding, and for moments like this and the music, connection, and creativity, I’m grateful it exists! –Dr. Elkins
Can you believe it? I’ve been compiling my thoughts, stories, memories, and updates in this newsletter for 150 editions. This edition marks over 12 years of newsletters. To all my patients, new and old, thanks for sticking around and enjoying my ramblings, stories, and tidbits of my life!
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FINDING AWE IN THE ORDINARY The Everyday Magic That Heals Us
In a world that races ahead at full speed, it’s easy to lose sight of wonder. We rush through our routines, scrolling, planning, and worrying, and rarely pause just to feel. But when we do stop long enough to notice the world’s quiet beauty, something remarkable happens: We experience awe. This emotion, which is part surprise, part reverence, can shift our perspective, soothe our nervous system, and reconnect us with
lower heart rate, and even promote compassion. It’s as if our minds momentarily reboot and remind us that life is vast and full of meaning beyond our daily concerns. Standing beneath a star-filled sky or witnessing a child’s laughter can make us feel small, but not in a diminishing way. Instead, we sense our place in life. That feeling of belonging and connectedness nourishes emotional balance and strengthens our resilience. ENCOUNTER AWE IN EVERYDAY MOMENTS. You don’t need to climb a mountain or visit a famous landmark to experience awe. It’s waiting in the subtle corners of your day: the way sunlight dances on a wall, the sound of rain tapping on the roof, or how someone’s kindness catches you off guard.
Try taking a few minutes each day to slow down and look around. Step outside, watch the clouds, or listen to a piece of music that stirs you. When you allow awe to find you, you begin to reconnect with presence, gratitude, and joy. Awe heals because it reminds us that we’re part of something larger and endlessly unfolding. In moments of difficulty, wonder offers perspective and hope. It grounds us, opens our hearts, and helps us see clearly beyond fear or fatigue. So, pause today. Let a moment of awe find you and allow it to do its quiet, powerful work.
something larger than ourselves. DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF FEELING AWE.
When we are captivated with awe, time seems to slow. Our thoughts, usually centered on our own problems and plans, suddenly expand to encompass the broader picture, which helps dissolve stress and boosts emotional well-being. Research indicates that awe can reduce inflammation,
A Word From Ashlee, Grace, and Leah Simple Ways to Protect Your Smile While Sick
When you’re sick, your body is working overtime to heal, and your mouth feels the effects more than you might expect. Congestion, medications, comfort foods, and fatigue can all take a toll on oral health. However, a few simple habits can keep your mouth healthy and comfortable while you recover. STICK TO THE BASICS (EVEN WHEN YOU’RE TIRED). It’s tempting to skip brushing when you’re exhausted or achy, but this is the time your mouth needs it most. Illness can allow bacteria to multiply more rapidly, thereby increasing the risk of cavities and gum irritation. Aim to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily. If you truly can’t manage the full routine, even a quick brush or rinse is better than nothing. REMEMBER, HYDRATION IS YOUR MOUTH’S BEST FRIEND. Many illnesses and the medications used to treat them cause dry mouth.
Decongestants, antihistamines, and fever reducers can all reduce saliva flow, which normally helps wash away bacteria. Drink water frequently throughout the day, even in small sips. If your nose is blocked and you’re breathing through your mouth, hydration becomes even more important to
prevent dryness and bad breath. WATCH OUT FOR SUGAR SNEAKING IN.
away can actually make things worse. Rinse with plain water to neutralize the acid. Wait about 30 minutes before brushing so your enamel has time to recover. BE SMART ABOUT GERMS. Illnesses spread easily, and your toothbrush can harbor bacteria and viruses. Avoid sharing toothbrushes, even with family members. Once you’re feeling better, replacing your toothbrush is a good idea, especially if you used it while you were sick. –Ashlee, Grace, and Leah Registered Dental Hygienists
When you’re sick, sugary drinks, cough syrups, and lozenges often become daily staples. Unfortunately, sugar fuels cavity- causing bacteria. Whenever possible, choose sugar-free cough drops and medications. If you do consume something sugary, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help limit damage to your teeth. PROTECT YOUR TEETH IF YOU’RE NAUSEOUS. If your illness involves vomiting, be extra gentle with your mouth. Stomach acid is harsh on tooth enamel, and brushing right
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Hot Honey-Infused Feta Chicken
Ingredients
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp black pepper • 1 tbsp olive oil • 3 tbsp hot honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced • 3 tbsp crumbled feta cheese • 2 tsp fresh rosemary chopped (or thyme) • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. 2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. 3. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden. 4. In a small bowl, mix hot honey and minced garlic to create a glaze. 5. Place the seared chicken in a baking dish. Pour the hot honey mixture over top. 6. Sprinkle chicken with crumbled feta, then rosemary or thyme. 7. Bake at 400 F for 20–25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165 F. 8. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra caramelization. 9. Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with lemon juice and extra herbs before serving. Directions
Inspired by LadySavor.com
JOKES DAD
Why did the scarecrow win an award? Because he was outstanding in his field.
I only know 25 letters of the alphabet. I don’t know Y.
Why don’t eggs tell jokes? They’d crack each other up.
Did You Know? Fun Tooth Facts Can’t Sleep Because of a Toothache? HERE’S WHY Facebook Fun Facts
Facebook began as a simple idea dreamed up in a Harvard dorm room. On Feb. 4, 2004, Mark Zuckerberg and three classmates launched Thefacebook.com as a way for Harvard students to connect online with classmates and share photos and info in a digital directory. Within just two weeks, half the student body had signed up. With this birthday in mind, here are some fun, surprising facts about Facebook’s wild ride. From college project to worldwide phenomenon: What started as a campus network opened up to everyone age 13 and up just two years later, and by 2008, it had overtaken Myspace as the most- visited social platform. It became Facebook after acquiring the Facebook.com domain in 2005, dropping “The” from the original name. Early investment helped fuel growth: PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel was the site’s first major investor, backing the company with $500,000 in 2004. The Like button wasn’t always a thing: It was introduced in 2009 and became one of the site’s most iconic features.
Have you ever noticed that a toothache feels worse at night? Toothaches often feel worse at night for reasons that go beyond the pain itself. Your body and brain change how they process discomfort once you lie down and try to sleep. One big part of this is blood flow and pressure: When you recline, more blood travels to your head, increasing pressure around the inflamed nerves in a painful tooth. That extra pressure can make a dull ache turn into a throbbing sensation that’s more difficult to ignore. Another key factor is distraction (or lack of it). During the day, work, errands, conversations, and noise help keep your mind occupied. At night, when everything quiets down, there’s nothing to take your attention away from the pain, which makes even mild discomfort feel stronger. Your body’s natural rhythms also play a role. Saliva production decreases at night, which means your mouth has less of its natural buffering and protection against bacteria and acids. Without that nighttime saliva flow, sensitive areas can feel more irritated.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1. Social Media Hits Home
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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3. Hot Honey-
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Healing Through the Eyes of Awe
A Sharper Memory
Infused Feta Chicken
Starts on
Your Plate
1110 S. Washington Ave. Emmett, ID 83617
A Word From Ashlee, Grace, and Leah
Tooth Facts
Did You Know?
208-369-4532 · ElkinsDental.com
Delicious Foods That Power Your Brain THINK BETTER, REMEMBER MORE
You’ve likely heard the saying “you are what you eat,” but when it comes to memory, that’s more literal than you might think. Your brain is constantly working to process, store, and recall information, and it requires the right fuel to stay sharp. However, certain foods can actually improve memory, focus, and overall brain health. Here’s what to load up on next time you’re at the grocery store. FATTY FISH If your brain had a favorite food, it would probably be salmon. Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and trout are full of omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA and EPA, which are crucial for building and maintaining brain cells. These healthy fats also enhance communication between brain cells, which aids in memory and learning. If you’re not a seafood fan, you can still get omega-3s
from plant-based sources like walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds. BERRIES Don’t underestimate these colorful little powerhouses. Blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are packed with antioxidants called flavonoids that help protect your brain from oxidative stress (basically, brain “rust”). These compounds can also boost communication between brain cells, which may help slow cognitive decline and improve short-term memory. Try tossing a handful of berries into your morning oatmeal or smoothie for an easy boost. LEAFY GREENS AND VEGGIES Spinach, kale, broccoli, and other leafy greens are rich in nutrients such as vitamin K, lutein, and folate, which are associated with improved cognitive
function. These nutrients promote healthy blood flow to the brain and protect against inflammation. Studies even suggest people who eat a daily serving of greens have the memory of someone years younger. Not bad for a salad, right? WHOLE GRAINS AND NUTS Your brain runs on glucose, and whole grains provide a slow, steady supply of it, helping to keep you alert and focused. Brown rice, quinoa, and oats help maintain balanced energy levels, while nuts (especially almonds and walnuts) add vitamin E, another nutrient tied to improved memory and slower cognitive aging.
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