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7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | ATOWNDENTAL.COM | JANUARY 2026 BRUSH - UP ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
POWERING UP IN PEACE
Honoring the Introverts Who Keep the World Grounded I’ve been a dentist long enough to realize something important about myself: Being an introvert isn’t a hurdle in a social profession. In fact, it’s actually been one of my quiet strengths. And since Jan. 2 is World Introvert Day, it feels like the right moment to share what that looks like in my life, both at work and at home.
Most people assume dentists are naturally outgoing, or at least energized by constant interaction. But for me, it’s different. I enjoy my patients and my team. I enjoy hearing about someone’s new job or catching up on how their child is adjusting to college. Those personal connections matter to me. But by the time I’ve seen a full schedule of patients, synced with my team, answered questions, and navigated countless conversations, my energy tank is well on its way to empty. My wife, who is very much an extrovert, jokes that her day starts when I get home since she’s been with the kids all day (and finally has an adult to chat with). Meanwhile, I’m trying to catch my breath from being “on” for hours. We’ve had to learn how to meet in the middle, recognizing when one of us needs to talk and when the other needs a quiet minute. Over the years, we’ve found a rhythm that works. Sometimes that means sitting next to each other, reading separate books. Sometimes it means I take the long way home just to finish a podcast and let my brain settle. Our kids recharge differently, too. Some burst through the door ready to tell us every detail from their day, and others plop down silently with the same “that was fun, but I’m done now” expression I know all too well. We try not to push them to be something they’re not. If they need quiet, we let them have quiet. If they need company, we make room for that. I’ve learned how much small pockets of solitude matter. A short walk, sometimes with a kid pedaling a bike a few yards ahead, gives me space to think. Playing guitar, reading a few pages, or listening to a podcast helps me unwind. These aren’t big hobbies, but they’re simple ways to stay grounded. They keep me balanced so I can show up at the office and be fully present with every patient … and then come home and be the dad who kicks off a family movie night instead of disappearing into another room.
And that’s what most people misunderstand about introverts: We’re not antisocial. We’re not shy. We’re not standoffish. We simply refuel differently, and honestly, that’s been one of my greatest strengths as a dentist. I’m not always the chattiest person, but I care deeply about understanding people and their concerns. When a patient tells me they can’t pinpoint why their tooth hurts, or something just doesn’t feel right, having the ability to slow down and really think it through has made me a better problem-solver and, I hope, a better dentist. So, on World Introvert Day, I’m celebrating the quieter folks, the ones who observe before they speak, who need a breather before rejoining the noise, and who find clarity in moments of stillness. There’s room for all of us, and the world is better when we honor how each person finds their own way to recharge and connect.
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Even though the brain reaches nearly adult size by early adolescence, it’s far from finished. The teen years are a period of massive remodeling. Neural pathways are strengthened or pruned depending on how often they’re used. This process, called synaptic pruning and myelination (insulating nerve fibers for faster communication), makes the brain more efficient but more sensitive to outside influences. THE EMOTIONAL ‘GAS PEDAL’ VS. RATIONAL ‘BRAKES’ Here’s the tricky part: The limbic system, which processes emotion and reward, develops earlier than the prefrontal cortex, the region responsible for planning, judgment, and self-control. This uneven growth explains why teens sometimes act impulsively or take risks, especially in social situations. Scientists call this the dual systems model, where their emotional “gas pedal” is pressed before their rational “brakes” are fully installed. The Science Behind Adolescent Brain Development MORE THAN MOOD SWINGS
When people think about their mouths, their teeth seem to steal all the attention. It’s what we see when we share a smile with others, and we’re always going the extra mile to ensure our teeth are straight, healthy, and white. However, there’s another part of the mouth that plays a vital role in our oral hygiene and shouldn’t be ignored. Our gums are one of our body’s primary sources of defense against harmful bacteria, as they prevent anything from entering the bloodstream while keeping teeth in place and protecting the roots. However, when our gums start to recede, they can open our mouths and bodies up to discomfort, pain, and further issues. January is Receding Gums Awareness Month , so there’s no better time to educate yourself and develop habits that keep your gums as healthy as possible. Receding gums are a serious issue that affects a significant portion of the American population and becomes more prevalent with age. Most people assume that receding gums are strictly a hygiene issue, but that’s not entirely true. While hygiene can play a role, receding gums can stem from an autoimmune disease, dry mouth caused by medications, mouth piercings, or injury to the gum tissue. To put it simply, nearly everyone is susceptible to receding gums . If you start to notice pain or discomfort near your gum line or sensitivity when brushing or consuming hot or cold foods and drinks, you may be experiencing the initial symptoms of gum recession or periodontal disease. We want to help our patients have the healthiest gums possible; that’s why we always check your gums whenever you come in for a cleaning. If you have any concerns or worries, be sure to share them with us! Also, make sure you mention if you have had recent surgery or any changes to your health, conditions, or medications. This will help us determine the source of the problem if we notice that your gums are receding. Your Gums Protect You Every Day ARE YOU PROTECTING THEM?
RISK AND REWARD While this imbalance can make adolescents more vulnerable to reckless choices,
it also makes them incredible learners. The teen brain is wired for exploration, novelty, and social connection. This sensitivity to reward can fuel creativity, adaptability, and growth.
SLEEP SHIFTS If you’ve ever noticed teens
staying up late and struggling to wake up, there’s science behind it. During adolescence, melatonin (the sleep hormone) kicks in later, shifting the natural sleep
cycle. Unfortunately, early school start times mean that many teenagers don’t get enough rest, which can hurt focus, mood, and impulse control.
Don’t take your gums for granted! They play a vital role in your overall health. Come in for a cleaning to make sure your gums are healthy!
MENTAL HEALTH TRIGGERS Adolescence is also when many mental health conditions first appear, from anxiety to depression. The rapid brain changes, hormonal shifts, and social stress make this a vulnerable period. Yet, the same flexibility that makes the brain sensitive also makes it resilient. With support, healthy habits, and stability, teens can develop strong coping skills and thrive. THE BIG PICTURE The teen brain isn’t broken. It’s under construction. Yes, it can be unpredictable, but it’s also primed for growth, adventure, and innovation. With patience, guidance, and encouragement, we can help teens channel that powerful development into building amazing futures.
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DON’T LET THE FIRE DIE MAKE WINTER BONFIRES YOUR NEW TRADITION
PROVIDE TOASTY TREATS. Sometimes, clothes alone are not enough to protect us from winter’s chill. During these moments, it can help to eat or drink something that fills your whole body with warmth. Thankfully, you’ll have a bonfire to help you toast and warm some delicious treats. S’mores are usually the go-to, but you can also warm up hot dogs, sausages, or even corn on the cob. And don’t forget the drinks! Hot chocolate, warm apple cider, or even tea can help everyone stay comfortable and in good spirits. ADD GAMES OR FUN ACTIVITIES. Some may grow bored with traditional bonfire activities, which is why you should have an extra activity or game up your sleeve. Depending on the lighting, you could play a card or board game. If the lighting is too dim, you can incorporate other activities requiring more movement and adventure. Kids and adults alike will have fun playing a game of flashlight tag or participating in a scavenger hunt. Plus, the extra movement will help everyone stay warm!
Many Americans invite their friends and family for a bonfire throughout the summer and fall. Nothing beats making s’mores, sharing stories, and enjoying the flickering flame under the moonlight. As temperatures drop and winter weather appears on the radar, some cover and ignore their bonfire area until after the cold and rainy seasons. However, you can still create an awe-inspiring bonfire during winter if you put together a plan. Winter bonfires can quickly become a regular part of your seasonal traditions, and these strategies will help ensure your bonfire is a hit with everyone who attends. HELP PEOPLE STAY WARM. Nobody wants to sit outside in the dark and freezing cold. Encourage everyone attending to dress in warm clothes appropriate for the frigid temperatures, but be prepared to help out if someone starts to feel chilly. Have extra blankets and coats within reach so you can easily pass them to anyone in need. YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS WHAT WAS THE FIRST CITY TO REACH A POPULATION OF ONE MILLION? In 133 BCE, Rome became the first city to have a population of one million inhabitants; however, this distinction didn’t last long after the fall of the Roman Empire. It wasn’t until 1800 that London became the first city to surpass that milestone, and it went on to reach a population of six million by 1810. WHEN WAS BRAILLE INVENTED? In 1824, Louis Braille entered the school for the blind in Paris and adapted a pre-existing military writing system that used dots, known as “night writing,” which was intended for nighttime battlefield communication. WHO HOLDS THE RECORD FOR STAYING AWAKE THE LONGEST? While the Guinness World Record no longer monitors this challenge due to the health risks involved since 1997, the record holder
SLOW COOKER BIRRIA TACOS
INGREDIENTS • 3 dried guajillo chiles • 2 dried ancho chiles • 1 medium onion, chopped • 4 garlic cloves • 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes • 3 lbs beef chuck roast • 2 cups beef broth • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp dried oregano • 2 tsp ground cumin • 2 bay leaves • 1 tsp salt • Pepper, to taste • Corn tortillas • Fresh cilantro and diced onion for garnish
DIRECTIONS 1. Soak dried chiles in hot water for 15 minutes. 2. Process chiles, onion, garlic, and tomatoes in a blender until smooth. 3. Place beef in a slow cooker and pour the chili mixture over it. 4. Add beef broth, vinegar, oregano, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. 5. Cook on low for 8–10 hours or until the beef is tender. 6. Shred the beef using forks, then mix back into the sauce. 7. Fry tortillas in oil until crispy, then assemble tacos as desired.
is Robert McDonald, who went 453 hours and 40 minutes (18 days, 21 hours, 40 minutes) without sleeping in 1986!
Inspired by SimpleWhisk.com
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ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
513-231-7755 ATOWNDENTAL.COM
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
7525 STATE RD., STE. A CINCINNATI, OH 45255
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
1
Introverts Unite! (Separately, in Our Own Homes)
2
The Brain Science of Teenagers
The Real Story Behind Receding Gums
3
Turn Cold Nights Into Warm Memories
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Slow Cooker Birria Tacos
4
Discover January’s Fascinating Traditions
SURPRISING STORIES FROM THE FIRST MONTH Good Luck, Good Food, and Historic Firsts
Bundle up and get ready to time-travel! Although January is often associated with new beginnings and resolutions, it’s also packed with fascinating stories, quirky traditions, and historic moments to kick off your year with a spark of wonder. Once upon a time, January went by a much wilder name. The ancient Anglo-Saxons referred to it as “Wulfmonath,” or “Wolf Month,” because the cold weather often drew hungry wolves to towns, scavenging for food. When there is a full moon in January, it’s still referred to as a “wolf moon,” because of those historic howls. When ancient people weren’t on the lookout for wild animals, they were busy preparing the fields. Since the 15th century, farmers have celebrated Plough Monday on Jan. 13. People would dress in white smocks with ribbons and drag a plow from village to village, singing and collecting money. Farmers ended the event by making a feast of beef and ale for their workers.
their New Year’s Day celebrations since as far back as the 1800s. This dish, made of black-eyed peas, rice, and pork, is said to bring good luck to whoever eats it. You get a little extra luck if you count the black-eyed peas on your plate. If you’re still hungry, on Jan. 1, 1910, the Hydrox “biscuit bonbon” hit the dessert scene. This chocolate sandwich cookie with creme filling would later inspire the Oreos we twist and dunk today. January isn’t just the first month of the year; it’s a time of technological firsts. The world’s first working television was demonstrated in January 1926 by Scottish inventor John Logie Baird in London. Jan. 1, 1983, is considered the official birthday of the Internet, marking the first time computer networks could communicate with each other. Moving into modern times, Steve Jobs reinvented the phone when Apple introduced the first iPhone on Jan. 9, 2007. So, whether you’re looking for a fun fact to share on New Year’s Eve or just warming up with a fascinating bit of history, January is full of surprises and impressive firsts.
But that’s not the only tasty tradition to savor this month. People in the southern U.S. have eaten Hoppin’ John as part of
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