Anderson Dental Care - March 2021

Anderson Dental Care - March 2021

BRUSH - UP

ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.

7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-438-8152 | WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM | MARCH 2021

A TRIBUTE TO ONE OF MY BIGGEST FANS, MY GRANDMA HOW I STARTED READING — FOR FUN

March tends to be the least productive month of the year — so why not pick up a good book?

“[Grandma] was one of the few people who always pushed everyone to follow their dreams and saw my potential differently than everyone else. She was a great mentor to me, and reading was one way that she kept her mind sharp.”

I’m always reading nowadays, but to be honest, I wasn’t an active reader my whole life. Reading used to be an activity designated for school. I didn’t read “for fun.” But someone I admired, my grandma, did all the time. Growing up, she lived only a couple blocks away from me. She used to sit and talk for hours with me, always having unique stories to share — but she was an amazing listener, too, never failing to offer her ear or shoulder. That meant a lot because, at the time, many people in my life didn’t seem to believe in me or believe that I could be a dentist. She was one of the few people who always pushed everyone to follow their dreams and saw my potential differently than everyone else. She was a great mentor to me, and reading was one way that she kept her mind sharp. Thinking back on it, her reading appetite was robust. Since she was immobile toward the end of her life, the library was kind enough to bring 6–10 books to her every week. They’d pick them up at the end of the week (and bring new ones), and my grandma would have every single book finished by the time of the next pick-up and drop-off. That amazed me!

In 2011, she passed away. All the grandkids got a small inheritance, and I thought, “What can I do with this to honor Grandma?”

I owed a lot to her. I think one reason why Grandma was such an incredible booster was because, when she was younger, she loved to act. She had aspirations for acting, but she had a lot of things change the course of those dreams and, in the back of her mind, always wished she had followed them. Perhaps because of her acting interests, she loved reading dramatized stories like murder mysteries, but she also pushed me to live without regrets or restrictions. As I pondered ways to honor her, I realized that I still rarely read for fun. Although I was well into adulthood, I bought a Kindle and a few murder mysteries I thought she’d like. I said to myself, “That’s it. I’m going to learn how to read regularly.” And I’ve been reading for fun ever since. I’ll admit, murder mysteries aren’t my jam as much as they were for her! I love business, nutrition, health, and non-fiction books mostly. I’ve been into “The Slight Edge” by Jeff Olson, which is a personal motivation book about how having simple disciplines can give you a slight edge that turns into massive happiness and success. Books help improve my perspective and even put reality on pause for a little while, but they aren’t a replacement for Grandma. I used to call to talk to her after a bad day, and she’d instantly make me feel better. Always a dreamer, she was a very inspirational member of the family, and I miss her very much. Rest in peace, Grandma — I hope you’re proud of me and my little Kindle.

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3 FAQs About Invisalign Clear Aligners WANT TO QUICKLY ALIGN YOUR SMILE WITHOUT BRACES? Most people do not naturally have perfectly aligned teeth, which is why braces are the go-to option in our society. However, braces can be painful, annoying, and difficult to maintain, especially with all the restrictions you need to follow throughout the teeth-alignment process. Now, there’s a modern teeth-alignment solution that’s not as problematic as having braces. Using Invisalign clear aligners is the new way to address misaligned teeth for both teens and adults. If you’re interested in trying them out for yourself, here are answers to three questions we often get! NO. 1: WHAT’S THE BENEFIT OF CHOOSING INVISALIGN OVER BRACES? Invisalign isn’t harmful to your cheeks or gums, unlike bulky braces that can scratch your mouth. Also, Invisalign gives you a professional look while working faster, often giving you the desired results within 12–18 months. Lastly, Invisalign doesn’t require frequent dentist visits like braces do, making it a better long-term investment!

There’s something beautiful about cultivating your own harvest, but you can grow more than simple backyard vegetables. Help your garden “grow up” by trying something unique this spring. 3 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR HARVEST DO SOMETHING BETTER IN THE GARDEN

GROW FUN FOODS We plant gardens for a purpose, so why not make it fun! Plant fresh basil, tomatoes, onions, peppers,

oregano, and more to create a garden worthy of your next homemade pizza. All you will need to buy is the crust! Pumpkin plants can offer fresh

gourds for any Halloween fanatic, while new species of fruits and vegetables can create an exciting home-cooking experience. Try the silver cucumber for a sweet taste or pineberries for a mix between strawberries and pineapples. You just might find a new flavor you love. GO WITH THE FLOW Creating a year-round garden that practically takes care of itself means using principles of permaculture, a philosophy of working with, rather than against, nature. Start by analyzing your space and yard. Determine your soil type and layer mulch or cover crops to protect it. Then, begin planting the same way that’s found in nature — trees grow at the top, shrubs and bushes are below, and other small plants and vines intermingle within. Choose crops that help each other grow (like corn, beans, and squash), and offer aid to your garden without digging up too much soil or disturbing its natural process. Permaculture gardening requires thoughtful planning, but once your crops are in place, nature will take its course. PLANT FOR YOUR HEALTH Mass production of your favorite fruits and vegetables reduces their key nutrients. Instead, choose fresh, home-grown varieties to yield greater health benefits. This is good news for those living with heart disease, joint disorders, or other chronic conditions. You can grow a garden chock full of nutrient-rich foods! Colorful fruits, root veggies, onions, and beans are great for joint health, while leafy greens can boost heart health. Grow pumpkins so you can harvest the seeds for better brain function, while berries can support your liver.

NO. 2: HOW DO I KNOW IF I CAN GET STARTED WITH INVISALIGN ALIGNERS?

Like any cosmetic dental procedure, you need to discuss your concerns and desired outcomes with your dentist. He or she will be able to tell you if you’re a good candidate for Invisalign clear aligners. You’ll discuss treatment options, length of treatment time, and investment amount and have all your questions answered.

NO. 3: WILL I STILL NEED TO WEAR RETAINERS AFTER INVISALIGN TREATMENT?

After the set treatment period of around 18 months, you will need to continue wearing clear retainers to maintain the new teeth placement. However, you will not have attachments on your teeth (small points of filling material that act as pressure points for the Invisalign aligners), so these will be completely smooth retainers. Like Invisalign clear aligners, you’ll need to keep it on for 12–22 hours each day for 3–6 months, or as prescribed by your dentist. After 12 months, you’ll likely only need to wear them at night. Even people who wear braces will need to do this to maintain the effects of their teeth alignment procedure. Unlike traditional retainers, Invisalign retainers also have a similar plastic mold of Invisalign aligners. This will prevent you from having a noticeable change in your smile.

We hope these tips will help inform your decision about whether Invisalign may be right for you, but of course we’re here for you if you have additional questions. Call us with questions or to schedule your Invisalign consultation.

Before you dig into these new gardening methods, consult with an expert at a nursery or greenhouse to get the best possible results.

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GET YOUR SEASONAL ALLERGIES BEFORE THEY GET YOU!

Spring brings with it many wonderful things, like longer days, picturesque scenery, and spring break, but right alongside those good things is something many people suffer from: allergies. While beautiful, the blooming trees and flowers make you want to stay away from the great outdoors for fear of nonstop sneezing or puffy, watery eyes. If you suffer from allergies caused by pollen, grass, or other spring plants, take these steps to breathe a little easier. When outside, avoid walking through areas with weeds, shrubbery, or lots of trees as much as possible. Grass and weeds are notably problematic. The slightest breeze can send particles flying through the air in the blink of an eye. When you walk through grassy areas, pollen will get on you, your clothes, and your hair. It’s best to stick to trails, sidewalks, and other paved areas.

If you do find yourself inundated with pollen or other allergens, your next best bet is to establish an at-home decontamination protocol. Take your shoes off at the door and make sure your clothes don’t come in contact with soft surfaces such as carpet, upholstery, or bedding. Take care to wash your “pollinated” clothes as soon as possible and wash your sheets and pillowcases weekly. Next, head for the shower. The sooner you can wash away the allergens, the better. Finally, don’t forget to replace the air filter in your home’s air system in the spring. Consider using an air filter designed to capture allergens. If your allergies are particularly troublesome, invest in a dedicated air filtration system or unit. While you can opt for portable, stand-alone air purifiers, there are larger systems that can be incorporated into your heating and air system that keep your entire home’s air free from most, if not all, common allergens.

HOW LONG CAN AN ARMADILLO HOLD ITS BREATH? Quite a while. Armadillos like to swim, and they’re very good at it. They have a strong dog paddle and can even go quite a distance underwater, walking along the bottom of streams and ponds. They can hold their breath for 4–6 minutes at a time. DO BANANAS GROW ON TREES? No, actually! They grow on a root structure that produces an above- ground stem. The plant is classified as an arborescent (tree-like) perennial herb. This makes the banana itself, technically, a berry. HOW MUCH IS 20 POUNDS OF DIMES VS. QUARTERS WORTH? A pound of dimes and a pound of quarters are essentially worth the same amount of money — $20 — a coincidence on two levels that isn’t so well-known. YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOW!

ASPARAGUS AND SMOKED MOZZARELLA PIZZETTES

INGREDIENTS •

1 lb prepared whole-wheat pizza dough, divided into 6 equal portions 12 oz asparagus spears, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

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1 cup shredded smoked mozzarella cheese

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1/3 cup scallions, thinly sliced

2 tbsp walnuts, toasted and chopped 1 sprig of fresh mint leaves, torn

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1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 tsp salt

Zest of 1 orange

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 500 F and ensure there are two racks in your oven. 2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, stretch each piece of dough into a 7-by-3-inch oval and arrange evenly on the pan. 3. On a second baking sheet, toss asparagus with oil and 1/4 tsp salt. 4. Place dough on top rack and asparagus on bottom and bake for 3 minutes.

5. Remove both trays from the oven, sprinkle cheese over the dough, then top with asparagus and scallions. 6. Return pizzettes to oven and bake until the crusts’ edges are golden, about 8–10 minutes. 7. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with walnuts, mint, and orange zest before serving.

Inspired by EatingWell.com

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513-438-8152 WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM

ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255

Get Your Seasonal Allergies Before They Get You! INSIDE THIS ISSUE 1 2 2 3 3 4 Asparagus & Smoked Mozzarella Pizzettes What’s Happening, Cincinnati? Make Gardening Better With These 3 Ideas! Is Invisalign Better Than Braces? A Tribute to One of My Biggest Fans, My Grandma

WHAT’S HAPPENING, CINCINNATI?

CHECK OUT THESE COOL LOCAL UPDATES!

There may be a lot going on these days, but plenty of it is good news, too! We’re happy to bring you another “What’s Happening, Cincinnati?” feature with two interesting stories that put a smile on our faces at Anderson Dental Care. CINCINNATI SENIORS KEEP IN TOUCH WITH DONATED IPADS. Over 1,000 seniors in the Cincinnati area were practically stranded from their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. But a national nonprofit partnered with the city and United Way to get iPads into their hands at 20 different retirement and nursing homes. One 87-year-old great-grandmother, Judy Lansita, lived at Little Sisters of the Poor in Clifton-University Heights-Fairview, a 20-minute drive from her home in Green Township. With the restrictions due to the pandemic, the whole family has felt much further apart, even her husband. “This has really been tough, not being able to see her,” Vince Lansita told WCPO. “This is the longest we’ve been apart in quite some time.” They’ve been married for over 65 years.

After Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine gave an order to halt visitation at senior living facilities statewide, the faculty posted pictures of Judy online for the family with a simple message. But now, with TCC Gives, Judy Lansita has an iPad. She can talk to her husband and children any time she wants. “We still won’t be able to see her, but we’ll make her feel good,” Vince Lansita said. NEW SMART CARTS ARE AT KROGER FOR INSTANT CHECKOUT! Kroger has been testing new smart shopping cart technology in the Cincinnati area that eliminates paying at the checkout. At the Madeira store, you can try out these new carts branded “KrogGo,” which allows shoppers to load up with groceries, then pay by swiping their credit or debit card on the cart. Artificial intelligence will enable shoppers to assemble their order without scanning items, as the carts will begin to recognize a box of cereal or a pound of apples. After paying, shoppers can bring their groceries straight to the car.

Pretty nifty, right? We’re excited to give it a try! Have a wonderful February!

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