Miami Dental

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Dental Implant Failure

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In fact, they are one of the most reliable long-term methods of tooth replacement. However, as with any other surgical procedure, there are a variety of internal and external factors that cause complications or even total failure of treatment. If this ever were to happen to you, Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA are here to assess the situation.


Osseointegration describes the formation of a direct functional and structural connection between a person’s bone and an artificial implant. There are two primary reasons for “later” implant failure after the osseointegration process has been successful. These include over-stressing implants with too much biting force or inflammatory disease of the gum tissues and/or bone around the implant. Prevention plays a tremendous role in avoiding implant failure. Once the implants are placed, it’s crucial to maintain a good oral hygiene routine. Make sure you schedule regular dental cleanings to help keep the tissues around your implants healthy.


If you have questions about dental implants, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Don’t Suffer From Dental Anxiety

Some people don’t look forward to dental appointments any more than they look forward to paying bills. In fact, 20% of patients experience enough anxiety that they will only go to the dentist when absolutely necessary. Fortunately, Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, are a team of health-centered professionals that are dedicated to making you feel most comfortable in the dentist’s chair.


People develop dental anxieties for many different reasons. Pain, feelings of helplessness and loss of control, embarrassment, and negative past experiences only name a few. Everyone has fears and concerns and copes with them in different ways. However, the prospect of dental work doesn’t need to fill you with fright. At the dental practice of Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, we want to help you greatly reduce your anxiety and provide you with dental treatment in a way that feels calm and safe. After all, in order to counteract past bad experiences, you need to have new positive experiences which lead to the development of improved feelings and attitudes.


If you have a case of dental anxiety, please inform us when scheduling your appointment. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Baby Tooth Care Tips

Baby teeth may be small, but they’re important. To help prevent the buildup of plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, recommend regularly cleaning your newborn’s gums with a damp washcloth following feedings. It’s important to start cleaning your child’s teeth before they come in to jumpstart a healthy smile.


Wipe the gums off after each feeding with a warm, wet washcloth or a dampened piece of gauze wrapped around your finger. In addition, take measures to prevent baby bottle tooth decay, a disease that causes severe, swift decay of baby teeth. To help prevent it, do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of formula or a sugary drink, such as juice. The possibility of tooth decay is directly related to the number of times that sugar comes in contact with the teeth. Your child’s baby teeth act as placeholders for adult teeth. Without a healthy set of baby teeth, your child risks having trouble chewing and speaking clearly as they get older.


If you have questions about your child’s oral care, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Monday, October 10, 2016

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at Ressler, Hirschl & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, of Miami Beach, FL and North Miami Beach, FL, our staff appreciates feedback from our patients because it teaches us how to improve as a team. Our staff would not only like to thank Lisa for this five-star review, but we would like to thank her for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our office, please let us know!  


“As Dr. Hirschl's patient for over 30 years, I can truly say he is wonderful, patient, thoughtful, caring, professional and a bit entertaining. I joke that I intentionally damage my teeth just so I can visit him and his fantastic staff. We first met when I was 10. Since I have the worst / softest teeth (for a kid who grew up with Fluoride In the drinking water) according to the chief of oral surgery who took out my wisdom teeth, I have been privileged to spend many days in Dr. Hirschl's chair. Back in the days when novocaine lasted all day, I would chew up my tongue. So with the patience of a saint, Dr. Hirschl would fill my cavities as I would breathe through the pain. Finally, after years, he begged me to try a shorter acting novocaine and since then our relationship has been less painful. 


I highly recommend Dr. Hirschl's office. The staff is sweet and kind. The hygienist does her best to make you feel comfortable. Over the years, I had done a few emergency weekends and office visits with Dr. Lelchuk, who is always kind, professional and gentle.
As much as I do not like going to the dentist, I'm there quite often and they make a not fun experience as comfortable, friendly and entertaining as possible (Dr. H is very funny and he always has great recommendations for travel, TV shows, and other subjects).”


If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Thursday, September 22, 2016

Your Child’s First Dental Visit

If you are a new parent, you may find yourself asking, “When should my child first see a dentist?” The answer is that a child should have their first dental visit by their first birthday. The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. It is our goal here at the practice of Ressler, Hirschl & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, of Miami Beach, FL and North Miami Beach, FL, to make your child’s first dental visit as smooth and comfortable as possible.


The purpose of the child’s first dental visit is to learn about your child’s oral health and how to best care for your child’s unique needs before any problems occur. Many dental problems can be prevented or more easily treated in the early stages. At the visit, you should expect one of our dentists or hygienists to review your child’s history, respond to your questions and concerns and talk with you about your child’s overall oral health, including development, teething, and oral habits such as sucking.


We usually recommend bringing your child to one or more of your hygiene or treatment visits so the dental office environment is somewhere they have been before and even met some of the people at the office. This usually makes a much smoother transition from "observer" to "patient".


If you have questions about your child’s dental health, please give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, August 31, 2016

Dental Cleaning aka Prophylaxis

No matter how much you diligently brush or floss your teeth at home, harmful bacteria grow in your mouth that can only be removed by a dental professional. These bacteria can cause gum disease and significantly affect your overall health. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, of Miami Beach, FL and N. Miami Beach, FL, will use professional tools to remove plaque, tartar and bacteria build-up that you are unable to efficiently remove yourself.


According to the Academy oe or shef General Dentistry, it is recommended that a dentist or hygienist perform a dental cleaning (prophylaxis) at least every six months. The professional dental cleaning reinforces the home-care oral health regimen of brushing and flossing and gives the dentist an opportunity to locate areas in the mouth that may need special attention. During a teeth cleaning, our dental hygienists will thoroughly clean the area above and below the gum line with scaling tools to rid them of plaque and tartar. Once the surfaces are smooth, polishing is done using a slow speed handpiece with a soft rubber cup that spins on the end. Last but not least, the dental hygienist will floss every crevice between your teeth. Fluoride may also be applied if needed.


If you need your teeth cleaned don’t wait any longer, call us today so we can help you maintain a healthy smile! To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Tuesday, August 23, 2016

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of dentistry that is aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and to your smile. If you have a grin that embarrasses you due to missing teeth, tooth discoloration, or teeth that are chipped or cracked, Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, of Miami Beach, FL and North Miami Beach, FL offers a wide variety of treatment options to restore your confidence.


From subtle changes to major repairs, our doctors can perform a variety of procedures to improve your smile. These procedures include, but are not limited to, whitening, dental bonding, dental crowns, veneers, and reshaping and contouring. These improvements are not always just cosmetic. Many of these treatments can improve oral problems as well, such as your bite. If you’re not sure which procedure may be right for you, we are here to answer all of your questions. The condition of your teeth and your desired result often indicate the best procedure for you.


If you have a desire for a more aesthetically pleasing smile, don’t hesitate to give us a call. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, August 17, 2016

Oral Health Care for Seniors

Advancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems. These problems include but are not limited to darkened teeth, dry mouth, gum disease, tooth loss and root decay. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, of Miami Beach, FL and North Miami Beach, FL, provides seniors with honorable dental care by encouraging them to have healthy nutrition and proper dental cleanings.


Seniors are more likely to suffer from a host of oral health issues resulting from their inability to provide themselves with adequate dental hygiene care. Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis in the hands and fingers that may make brushing or flossing teeth difficult to perform. These factors leave many seniors at risk of ignoring tooth decay and tooth infection until there is no alternative but tooth extraction. At each of our practices, we have procedures or products to prevent this from happening. With regular checkups, we can catch problems in the earliest stages to help prevent serious conditions from occurring.  


If you or someone you know is due for a dental checkup, please give us a call! To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Explaining the Root Canal Procedure

“Root Canal” has become a scary term for dental patients to hear, but the benefits of the procedure and advances in dental technology have made it much less frightening. When a tooth becomes infected it is usually related to the nerves in the root of the tooth. The infected nerves need to be removed and this is done with a root canal procedure. At Miami Dental, our staff will save your tooth after we’ve determined that you are a candidate for the procedure.


The root canal procedure requires one or more office visits and in most cases can be performed right here in the office. The first step in the procedure is to take an X-ray to see the shape of the root canals and determine if there are any signs of infection in the surrounding bone. You will receive anesthesia as necessary, once the tooth is thoroughly cleaned, it needs to be sealed. If the root canal is not completed on the same day, a temporary filling will be placed in the exterior hole in the tooth to keep contaminants out between appointments. When all of the treatment is completed, the root canal procedure should relieve the discomfort you had been feeling.


If you have a tooth that is causing you trouble, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, July 27, 2016

Bruxism Basics

Grinding of your teeth, also known as bruxism can have a variety of causes. Some experts view bruxism as nothing more than a habit. It can also be a result of the body’s reaction when the teeth do not line up or come together properly. If you experience signs and symptoms of bruxism, our doctors Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk, DDS, PA can provide you with an individualized treatment plan.


When diagnosing bruxism, one of our doctors may ask about your general dental health, what sources of stress you have in your life, and what medicines you take. Second, they examine you, paying special attention to the muscles in and around your jaw. Finally, they will look at your teeth for evidence of grinding. During this examination, the doctor may also check for tenderness in your jaw muscles and joint.


If you wake up with jaw pain, or catch yourself grinding your teeth, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Nitrous Oxide Sedation (Analgesia)

Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a chemical compound with the formula N20. At room temperature, it is a colorless, non-flammable gas, with a slightly sweet odor and taste. Nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose to help you relax.  At Miami Dental, our doctors only administer this pain-relieving formula to patients who are eligible for sedation.  


Nitrous oxide is the most commonly used form of sedation in dentistry. It is administered by having the patient inhale the gas, which is carefully monitored by our doctors. You will fall into a euphoric state and feel completely relaxed. All feelings of fear and anxiety fade away, allowing you to sit back peacefully while your dental procedure is performed. In some cases, all dental treatment can be completed in one visit while you are sedated. Once the procedure is over, the nitrous oxide will wear off fairly quickly and you will  be able to drive yourself home and return to your daily activities.


To learn more about sedation options as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Friday, June 17, 2016

Diabetic Oral Care

 


People with poorly controlled diabetes are more prone to dental problems. They are more likely to develop infections of their gums and the bones that hold the teeth in place, because diabetes can reduce the blood supply to the gums. If you have diabetes, please call our office to schedule a professional exam with our doctors at Miami Dental to prevent further dental complications. 

If you have diabetes, symptoms of dental problems include bleeding and sore gums, frequent infections, and bad breath. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is critical. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontitis. Additionally, high blood sugar may cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. The decrease in saliva can cause an increase in tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup. You can prevent these problems by maintaining good blood sugar control, brushing and flossing and least twice a day, and scheduling a dental checkup every six months.

To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

People with poorly controlled diabetes are more prone to dental problems. They are more likely to develop infections of their gums and the bones that hold the teeth in place because diabetes can reduce the blood supply to the gums. If you have diabetes, please call our office to schedule a professional exam with our doctors at Miami Dental to prevent further dental complications.


If you have diabetes, symptoms of dental problems include bleeding and sore gums, frequent infections, and bad breath. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is critical. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis. Additionally, high blood sugar may cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. The decrease in saliva can cause an increase in tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup. You can prevent these problems by maintaining good blood sugar control, brushing and flossing and least twice a day, and schedule a dental checkup every six months.


To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.


 

Wednesday, May 25, 2016

Bad Oral Habits

If you avoid eating cold foods or drinking hot beverages because your teeth are a little tender, it may be time to get to the root of this problem. If you have sensitive teeth, our staff at Miami Dental may recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatments to decrease sensitivity. Sometimes the solution is simply breaking bad habits. If you catch yourself performing any of the following habits, do your best to break them.



  • You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.

  • You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will leave you in pain.

  • You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.

  • You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.


To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Saturday, May 21, 2016

Stages of Gum Disease

If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, then you need to practice a proper oral hygiene routine on a daily basis. If you don’t, you’re already headed down the road toward gum disease. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth and there are three stages that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams with our staff at Miami Dental at least twice a year to avoid this condition.



  • Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.

  • Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.

  • Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.


If you suspect you have gingivitis and are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Common Dental Emergencies

At Miami Dental, we understand that accidents happen and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean all the difference between saving and losing a tooth. If you or your child experience some sort of trauma to your mouth for whatever reason, please give us a call as soon as possible. Meanwhile, in the midst of a dental emergency, utilize these tips to ensure a smooth recovery. 



  • For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.

  • For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.

  • If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.

  • For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.


If you suffer a dental emergency, give us a call immediately. To learn about our services we provide at our office, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630. 

Saturday, April 23, 2016

Tips for a Nice Smile

With selfies and instant photo sharing taking over the internet, our staff at Miami Dental wants you to have a camera-ready smile at all times. With a variety of cosmetic services to choose from, we can enhance your smile anyway you’d like. However, if there is any reason you can’t go the cosmetic route at this moment, we will provide you with these tips that will give you a photogenic smile no matter what.



  • Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.

  • Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.

  • Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!


If you wish to improve the appearance of your smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about our services we provide at our office, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630. 

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Teeth Types: Shapes, Sizes and Function

At Miami Dental, we do our best to answer all the questions you have about your teeth. Have you ever wondered why your teeth are different shapes and sizes? The reason is that they all serve different purposes in your mouth. Although the common goal is to chew your food and nourish your body, each type of tooth has its own function.


Read on to learn about the different types of teeth and the purpose they serve in your mouth!



  • Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.

  • Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.

  • Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.

  • Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.


 


If you have questions about your pearly whites, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Thursday, March 31, 2016

Unavoidable Tooth Extractions

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, there are a number of reasons why our doctors at Miami Dental may need to perform an extraction. A very common reason involves a tooth that is too badly damaged, from trauma or decay, to be repaired. This is why we emphasize the importance of oral hygiene during every patient visit. Wisdom teeth removal is the most common type of tooth extraction because these teeth can easily become infected if they do not emerge properly. Aside from wisdom teeth removal, other reasons for extractions may include:



  • Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.

  • Orthodontic treatment – people getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.

  • Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.

  • Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.


If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, don’t wait any longer and give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Wisdom Tooth Extractions: What to Expect

Many times, wisdom teeth – the third molars in the very back of your mouth – don’t have room to grow properly and can cause problems. These teeth that usually erupt during the ages of 16-20 can develop cavities, gum disease, and several other infections and lead to crowding when they can’t emerge. Even though wisdom teeth do not always require extraction, our staff at Miami Dental would like to encourage you to schedule a dental exam if you still have yours. We would also like to inform you on what to expect once wisdom teeth need to be extracted.


Wisdom teeth are spotted on X-rays. If not visible, they are impacted and risk erupting abnormally or being trapped in your jawbone or gums, which can be painful. Before surgery, you will meet with one of our doctors to talk about the process as well as the type of anesthesia you may require. Depending on the type of anesthesia, you might even be able to return to work or do your normal activities after surgery. Most people have little to no pain after surgery, but you’re likely to have swelling and mild discomfort for three or so days.


If your wisdom teeth are causing you pain, please give us a call. To learn more about tooth extractions as well as other services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, February 10, 2016

Benefits of a Bright Smile

If you are embarrassed by yellow teeth and a not so aesthetically pleasing smile, then you should consider giving our doctors at Miami Dental a call. By providing our patients with teeth whitening and bleaching services, you can achieve the “Hollywood” look you’ve been dreaming of. Teeth whitening and bleaching are safe, quick, inexpensive, and you can lighten only your upper teeth, or both the upper and lower, while boosting your self-esteem in the process.


In addition to basic oral hygiene, teeth whitening and bleaching are just a few ways to achieve a bright smile. Dental bleaching can be used to correct many tooth discolorations that have been caused by staining, aging, or chemical damage to teeth. At Miami Dental, using the latest bleaching technology, we can provide you with confidence and self-assurance, and a beautiful smile that makes you more comfortable in your own skin.


If you desire a brighter smile, please give us a call. To learn more about dental tooth whitening as well as other services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Thursday, February 4, 2016

Stop Sensitive Teeth

Have you ever bit into an ice cream cone and were taken aback by a sharp shooting pain in your teeth? That’s one of the few symptoms of sensitive teeth and this happens when the gums pull back and expose the tooth surface beneath, called the dentin. Fortunately, our doctors at Miami Dental can offer you with a variety of treatment options, from dental sealants to fluoride treatments.


Tooth sensitivity can affect one or more teeth. It’s most common when you eat or drink something hot, cold, sweet, or sour. Your dentin is a soft layer that makes up the inner part of the tooth and roots, which have thousands of tiny tubules that lead to the tooth’s nerve center (the pulp). These channels allow the trigger – the characteristic of the food or beverage – to reach the nerve in your tooth, which results in the pain you feel. Some at-home steps to take to reduce tooth sensitivity include brushing, flossing and rinsing with a fluoride and antiseptic mouthwash daily, and using toothpaste that is intended for sensitive teeth.


If you have sensitive teeth, please give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Eliminate Pesky Plaque

Do our staff at Miami Dental a favor and lick your teeth with your tongue. Do you feel something fuzzy? That fuzzy stuff is called plaque. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria and sugars that constantly forms on our teeth. Saliva, food, and fluids are what cause these deposits to collect on our teeth where they meet the gum line. Fighting plaque is a long-term commitment to practicing proper oral hygiene. This is why it’s important to control the situation before it turns into tartar (calculus), a crusty deposit that only our staff of hygienists is able to remove.


The buildup of plaque can trap stains on the teeth, and it also the primary factor for cavities and gum disease. It takes about four hours after we eat for plaque to accumulate and if it’s not removed promptly, these bacteria use ingredients found in our diet to grow into tartar. Tartar is a calcified or hardened plaque that attaches to the enamel on your teeth and below the gum line. We can guarantee that this is something to avoid. To prevent plaque buildup, schedule regular dental exams twice a year on top of brushing your teeth at least twice a day, and flossing at least once a day.


If you have plaque buildup on your teeth and are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. To learn more about dental hygiene as well as services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors or hygienists, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or our North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.

Friday, January 15, 2016

What is Scaling and Root Planing Used For?

If you dread the dental drill but have been told that you have gingivitis, it’s important that you take gingivitis seriously and treat it promptly. Root planing and scaling is one of the most effective ways to treat gum disease before it becomes severe. It is done when gums have either started to pull away from the teeth or the roots of the teeth have tartar on them. Depending on the condition of the patient’s gums, the amount of tartar present, the depth of the pockets, and the progression of periodontitis, Dr. Ressler, Dr. Hirschl, or Dr. Lelchuk, may recommend scaling and root planing.


Scaling and root planing can be used as a stand-alone treatment, or a preventative measure and are commonly performed on cases of gingivitis and moderate to severe periodontal disease. The objective of this non-surgical procedure is to remove dental plaque and tartar, which causes gum inflammation. When scaling is performed, calculus and plaque that attaches to the tooth surfaces are removed. The process especially targets the area below the gum line, along the root. Root planing is when the root of the tooth is literally smoothed, which promotes healing and also helps prevent bacteria from forming in the future. If treatment is successful, you’ll protect your teeth, reduce bad breath and have a more aesthetically pleasing smile.


To learn more about scaling and root planing as well as the services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630. 

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Special Needs Dentistry

Patients with special needs are those who due to physical, medical, developmental or cognitive conditions require special consideration when receiving dental treatment. If you have a loved one who suffers from a disability, it’s understandable why you may be concerned about their dental health. Fortunately, for those who cannot maintain or receive traditional dental care, Drs. Ressler, Hirschl and Lelchuk offer a compassionate, efficient environment for the patient.


Caring for a special needs patient takes empathy, patience, and understanding. Here at Miami Dental, our doctors can accommodate for these types of patients and focus on meeting their needs and working with their limitations. Patients who have trouble practicing oral hygiene may need to visit us more often to check for signs of dental problems while others require more attention during the appointment. Our goal is to treat our patients as if they are family. Therefore, we promise to make the dental care for your loved ones as enjoyable and comfortable as possible.


To learn more about our special needs dentistry services as well as the general services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630. 

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

The Proper Flossing Technique

Sometimes our lives are so hectic that we forget to floss our teeth on a daily basis, however, many of us tend to use this as an excuse. Every six months you visit our doctors at Miami Dental for a cleaning and every six months you are likely to get a lecture about flossing. Here at the practice, we’ve heard all of the excuses including the ever-so-popular, “I don’t know how to floss.” Well, we hate to inform you that you won’t be able to use that one anymore, because here is the proper technique for flossing your teeth.



  • Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.

  • Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.

  • Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.

  • When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.

  • Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth and don’t forget the back ones!


To learn more about dental health as well as the services we provide at the practice, visit www.miami-dental.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors, give us a call at our Miami Beach office: 305-532-1444 or North Miami Beach office: 305-949-2630.