Elkins Dental - June 2024

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FOR A BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILE

ELKINSDENTAL.COM

JUNE 2024

STRUMMING MY WAY TO THE STAGE

My Passion for Music Ignited

“Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da”by The Beatles changed everything for me. Let me explain! As many of you know, music is one of my greatest passions (other than dentistry, of course). All I need is my guitar, and I’m happy. While my journey with music has certainly been a long one, one moment at a Guitars Unplugged competition set the stage for my love for performing. Growing up, my family was deeply involved in music, with each of us learning to play the piano. However, by the time I was 12, I chose to step away from the piano. My older brother, Brian, excelled at it, even majoring in piano performance in college before changing his field of study. My sister, also skilled, continued to play the piano and pursued a college major in vocal performance. As the third child, I felt a strong desire to carve out my own identity, separate from my older siblings. Knowing I didn't want to continue with the piano — especially after recently quitting the trumpet in the school band — my mom insisted that I still needed to play an instrument. This pushed me to explore other musical avenues to distinguish myself.

Inspired by an acoustic guitar passed down from my dad's grandfather, I decided to give guitar playing a shot, and my younger brother Russ, also opted to take a crack at it — after all, growing up, he and I were very similar, two peas in a pod. The guitar my dad had was a family heirloom, a Martin acoustic guitar. Because it was so special and expensive, my dad, understandably, did not want his 11- and 12-year-old kids playing it (although I have it now). One day, my dad stumbled upon a black electric guitar at a yard sale for just $10. We didn't know much about guitars then and thought it was the best one imaginable — we were absolutely thrilled with it. Even without an amplifier, we managed by plugging it into my dad's stereo, and that guitar became our shared learning instrument for many years. In our mid-teens, Russ and I participated in 4H, where we raised swine. We bought piglets, nurtured and trained them, then showed them at the 4H fair before selling them at auction. This was how we earned money when we were younger. One year after selling our pigs, we used our earnings to upgrade to a better guitar. After all, we were only getting better!

worried that because so many musicians had entered, we wouldn’t place. But we were one of the last performers, and the crowd went wild when we played“Ob-La- Di, Ob-La-Da”by The Beatles while my older brother, Brian, played the bongos. It was the best feeling in the world. And guess what? We won! After that experience, we never looked back. Whenever Brian comes up from Utah, he hops on stage to perform with us at our gigs. There was also a period when our younger brother, Ellis, would join us on stage. It’s been quite special having all four brothers play together on occasion. But from the start, it has primarily been Russ and me, and it still is to this day!

The musical performance bug really hit while we were in college. We signed up to play at a Guitars Unplugged show. We were

My brother Russ and I will be playing at the Cherry Festival in Emmet on June 15 from 6–8 p.m.! I hope to see you there!

–Dr. Elkins

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UNLOCK THE POWER OF RAW VEGETABLES FROM GARDEN TO PLATE

Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet, and while baked or stir-fried dishes are delicious, you could be cooking out beneficial vitamins and nutrients. For example, heat degrades the cancer-fighting compound myrosinase found in raw broccoli. Garlic’s main beneficial compound is allicin, which can also be destroyed if you cook it. Thankfully, you can find many ways to use these and other vegetables raw instead. If you want the most potent dose of enzymes, vitamins, and minerals possible from plant- based foods, you must consume them raw. From improvements to your skin to a stronger heart, there’s a bounty of reasons to incorporate uncooked veggies into your meals. Here are three other reasons to enjoy them uncooked.

Fun and Tasty The natural crisp flavor and crunch of uncooked veggies can be just a fun and tasty way to curb your hunger. Raw carrots, celery, or tomatoes are an easy snack that won’t lead you or your child into a sugar crash within a few hours. They can also brighten up a salad and are great to have on hand to add to smoothies or vegetable juices. Weight Management Raw veggies are naturally low in calories and high in fiber and can contribute to weight loss or better weight management. Along with being packed with fresh nutrients, opting for uncooked vegetables minimizes food preparation techniques that increase the calories in a meal.You want to avoid dousing

vegetables with butter, cream, and cheese. Raw veggies also tend to be filling, so they can aid in reducing your snack cravings. Hydration Water is necessary for our bodies to work properly, allowing our organs, as well as key processes like digestion and body temperature maintenance, to function correctly. Many of the most popular and accessible vegetables, like cucumbers, have a high water content. Eating raw veggies like this can give you a needed boost of hydration. So, put away the frying pan, butter, and oil, and incorporate uncooked vegetables into your daily diet.Your body will thank you!

A Word From Cheyenne & Ashlee How Do Genetics Play a Role in Your Oral Health?

Your genetics play a role in your oral health. However, no current

your DNA, they typically involve sending a cheek swab or saliva sample to a lab, which then returns results, sometimes accompanied by a consultation. However, a DNA marker linked to a disease does not guarantee its development because environmental and lifestyle factors also play a significant role.

the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends the following tips:

• Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste, preferably one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. • Clean between your teeth daily. • Maintain a balanced and healthy diet. • Visit your dentist regularly for check-ups. These preventive practices will effectively manage your oral health and reduce the risk of future dental problems! As always, if you have any questions or concerns, contact our office between your routine hygiene visits! We are always here to ensure your smile remains healthy and bright!

genetic test can definitively predict one's future risk of developing cavities or severe gum disease. While some tests on the market claim to assess the risk of diseases based on

Your daily lifestyle habits greatly influence oral health. How often you brush and floss your teeth, your diet, tobacco use, and your dental history generally impact your risk for oral diseases more than any genetic marker. Currently, traditional dental exams, including X-rays and probing measurements, remain the most effective methods for assessing your oral health and predicting future issues. To maintain optimal oral health and prevent dental disease,

–Cheyenne & Ashlee Registered Dental Hygienists

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SUMMER CHICKEN SALAD Inspired by FoodNetwork.com

Ingredients

GOOD CHEER Beer lovers, rejoice! Idaho is the world’s largest hop producer, and more and more people are taking advantage of our agricultural bounty by opening breweries in the Treasure Valley. Share a few of these treasures with visiting family members and their only question will be “How did we not come here sooner?” 1. Place chicken in a large plastic bag and pound with a mallet to flatten to 1/4-inch thickness. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 2. Heat grill, then grill chicken on both sides for about 4 minutes per side; set aside to cool before slicing. 3. Grill corn until the kernels begin browning, turning regularly for even cooking. Use a knife to shave the kernels off. 4. In a bowl, mix all dressing ingredients until combined. 5. In a large bowl, combine corn, dill, celery, and onions, then stir in chicken and top with dressing and blueberries as desired. 6. Separate the head of butter lettuce into“cups”to fill with salad and enjoy! Directions

MOUNTAIN RANGES Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, we don’t have to go far to find mountaintop winter activities. If skiing or tubing is your idea of winter fun, Bogus Basin is just a short drive away, and heading to McCall makes a fun weekend getaway. ... AND RIVERS Not only are we surrounded by the Payette and Boise rivers, Idaho is also home to the deepest gorge in North America: Hells Canyon. Take that, Arizona! • 1/2 cup half and half • 1/4 cup mayonnaise • 1/4 cup sour cream • 1 tsp sugar • Juice of 1 lemon • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts • Salt and pepper • 4 ears of corn, shucked • 3 tbsp minced dill • 3 stalks celery, finely diced • 1 red onion, finely diced • 1 1/2 cups blueberries • 1 head of butter lettuce Dressing • 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

Out-of-town relatives who are visiting for the holidays might wonder what makes Emmett so special. But we already know the Treasure Valley is full of gems — and we don’t just mean the rocks. Here are some additional reasons Emmett and The Gem State are great. WE’VE GOT SUNSHINE On average, we have 210 sunny days per year. Compare that to 144 rainy days in Portland and we can feel pretty happy about all our free vitamin D.

JOKES DAD

Why did the cow go to Hollywood? To be in the moo-vies.

Why aren't lobsters generous? Because they're shellfish.

Where do sheep go on vacation? The Baaaa-hamas.

DID YOU KNOW? Tooth Facts Fun

World's Largest Guitar Strikes a Chord in the Guinness Records

THE FLIP SIDE OF FLUORIDE

Did you know that too much fluoride can be a bad thing?

Dental fluorosis is a condition that results from excessive fluoride intake during the early years of tooth development, typically under the age of 8. When children consume too much fluoride while their permanent teeth are forming under the gums, it can lead to changes in the appearance of the tooth enamel. The condition varies in appearance, from mild, barely noticeable white specks or streaks on the teeth, to severe cases characterized by brown markings and a rough, pitted surface, which can be more aesthetically concerning and might also feel rough.

According to Guinness World Records, the world's largest guitar is huge! It measures 43.5 inches in length, 16 feet wide, and weighs a whopping 2,244 pounds! Designed to be proportionate to a regular-sized Gibson Flying V, this massive guitar isn’t just for show — it's completely playable (although it certainly doesn’t sound as great as a normal guitar). Every detail was meticulously scaled up to maintain the integrity of its design and function. Because the strings are massive in size, strumming them produces a deep, resonant sound that echoes its massive size. This guitar is often used as an educational tool to teach about sound waves and frequency — how cool?!

Now you know!

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1. Following My Musical Path

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

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Why Raw Vegetables Are

Summer Chicken Salad

Host a Movie Night Under the Stars

Better for Health

Tooth Facts

1110 S. Washington Ave. Emmett, ID 83617

A Word From Cheyenne & Ashlee

Did You Know?

208-369-4532 · ElkinsDental.com

Hosting the Ultimate Outdoor Movie Night MOONLIT MOVIE MAGIC

Whether it’s blocking pucks during a street hockey game or checkmating chess hustlers at the park, traditionally indoor activities take on an entirely new feel and flavor when taken outside. While a rare sight these days, movie- goers worldwide used to enjoy cinema from the comfort of their cars at drive-in theaters. These made a brief resurgence during the pandemic, but now that movies are rolling in theaters again, the fad has begun to die off. These days, if you want to watch a movie, it seems like you are limited to three options: Watching it at the theater, on your TV, or on your phone or tablet. Now, I think we can all agree that watching a movie outside on your phone does not make for a great cinematic experience. Debtrette, a TikTok influencer and mom, has a suggestion. She put a spin on an

old classic — family movie night — by holding it in her backyard with all the conveniences you would expect at a movie theater — like an air mattress, pillows, and blankets! If you are looking for a fun way to spruce up a traditional movie night, what better way than to bring it outside under the stars? Here are some necessities to make your moonlight movie night truly magical: • A portable projector screen, like a sheet on a clothesline • Portable movie projector • Candy, popcorn, and beverages • Some outdoor seating and cushions • Lamps, lanterns, or candles • Warm blankets • The perfect movie to bring it all together

You can find screens and projectors to fit any budget, and your movie selection will depend on the crowd. Just make it fun: Lie back on the grass and watch“Antz”or lounge in the pool while watching“Jaws”! The key is to make the experience unforgettable, and all who share in it will be thankful for your effort to make it all possible.

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