Eat These Foods to Prevent Bad Breath

If you or someone else has noticed your bad breath, don’t be embarrassed, Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk are here to help you fix the problem. If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “You are what you eat,” it’s time to start paying more attention to what foods you put on your plate. Here are some foods that should be incorporated into your diet to promote a healthy, odorless, smile.

If you practice proper oral hygiene habits but still suffer from bad breath, the problem lies in your diet. If you consume foods like onions and garlic, they tend to linger in the bloodstream and are released when you exhale. Coffee and alcohol have a drying effect on the tongue, which can cause these foul-smelling bacteria to linger. To prevent bad breath, include more raw vegetables into your diets such as carrots, celery, and apples. These veggies are rich in fiber, prevent bad breath, and increase saliva flow in the mouth to fight harmful bacteria.

If you have questions or concerns about dental health, please give us a call. 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. 

Thank You for Your Positive Reviews!

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 Scott M. for this five-star review, but we would like to thank him for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our offices, please let us know!  

“I continue to rate my experience with the dental services provided by Ressler, Hirschl & Lelchuk as EXCELLENT. I also wish to mention the incredible professionalism, skill and courtesy of Honey, the Dental Hygienist, whose ability to communicate progress met and needing focus, is without parallel.” – Scott M.

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.

Nitrous Oxide for Special Needs Children

Two areas of Dr. Ira Lelchuk’s expertise are nitrous oxide and pediatric dentistry. For children with special needs, nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, is an important option for easing dental procedures, allowing important oral maintenance and treatment to be done unhindered.

Nitrous oxide is a gas delivered through a mask over the patient’s nose, but it does not leave the patient unconscious. They may not be able to remember much of the procedure, but they will still be able to communicate and will have a cough reflex. For surgeries such as wisdom tooth extraction, nitrous oxide may be coupled with an injected local anesthetic. This is because nitrous oxide is meant mainly to relieve a patient’s psychological stress, including fear of needles, while anesthetic is used to prevent pain.

Because of nitrous oxide’s low solubility in blood, it acts quickly but allows the patient to endure longer appointments. Use of nitrous oxide in properly equipped offices and hospitals such as ours is perfectly safe for children. Besides reducing dental anxiety, it also reduces involuntary movement, making it highly desirable for special needs patients who intend to be cooperative but have difficulty remaining in the chair.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rdSt, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

 

Diabetes and Sleep Apnea

We take care of more than just teeth at the dental offices of Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk. Our doctors are members of the staff at Mount Sinai Medical Center and help to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OAS). To help combat this serious health threat, we want our patients to understand how OAS is related to diabetes.

People who have OAS are often also diabetic. It may not be that one directly causes the other; diabetes, a metabolic disorder, is common among obese people, whose soft tissue is more likely to press down on their airways when they lie down. It is believed that OAS may worsen diabetes. The stress from waking up or nearly waking up during the night releases hormones which signal to the body to release glucose. It is also believed that people’s sleep is disrupted by the pain or unpleasant feeling of peripheral neuropathy, which is a result of the damage diabetes does to the nervous system.

We can help some OAS patients by providing them with removable oral devices to help their breathing at night. Our hospital access also allows us to refer  for surgery to remove obstructions, if necessary. Regardless, the dentist is an important part of a diabetic patient’s care team.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rdSt, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

 

Causes of Bleeding Gums

If you see blood in the sink when you spit out your toothpaste, don’t dismiss it as a regular part of maintaining oral hygiene. Gums should not bleed, and when they do, it’s usually a sign of gingivitis. Gum inflammation, as gingivitis is commonly called, is very common, but indicates a health problem.

Gingivitis is caused by excessive bacterial growth in the gum pockets. As bacteria feed on sugar, they produce tartar, which acids stick to. This irritates the gum tissue, causing it to bleed while being brushed. Of course, it’s also possible to brush too hard and bruise the gums, but brushing is the best way of preventing bacterial build-up as long as it’s done with a soft-bristled brush.

Anybody can get gingivitis (including people with artificial teeth), but there are some complicating factors which make it more likely. Pregnant women are at greater risk due to hormonal changes. Blood thinner medications also increase the likelihood of gingivitis, as does dry mouth, due to saliva being an important part of keeping bacterial growth under control. Smoking also causes gum inflammation, along with other oral health problems.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rdSt, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Fillings and Toothaches

At the dental offices of Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk, patients receive beautiful, naturally colored fillings. These treatments repair minor damage to the teeth, allowing them to function normally and making it easier for the patient to combat tooth decay. However, they are not life-long solutions, and patients will need to recognize when they are not functioning properly.

It is normal for patients to experience sensitivity immediately after the decayed dental material has been removed and filled in. But if they are uncomfortable for longer than three or four days, there may be a problem. It is possible that the filling is not at the correct height and may need to be contoured slightly. This is especially true if the filling is interfering with the patient’s ability to bite down comfortably.

Fillings usually have a lifespan of about ten years. After that, the bonding holding them in place starts to crack. The cracks are excellent hiding spaces for decay-causing bacteria, which is why patients may begin to get toothaches again. The filling may also come loose, which is a sure sign it needs to be removed. Maintaining regular appointments allows us to examine patients’ fillings to determine whether it is time for them to be replaced before major problems develop.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rdSt, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Extrinsic Stains and Treatment

Stains on teeth are divided into two categories – extrinsic and intrinsic. While intrinsic stains refer to the discoloration of dentin (underneath the enamel) extrinsic are a little less complicated, as they occur on the outer surface of enamel. Because extrinsic stains are located on the surface, they can be removed through a few whitening sessions. Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk may suggest GLO Whitening treatment for extrinsic stains.

Extrinsic tooth stains are usually a result of poor oral hygiene habits. However, certain foods and beverages like coffee and wine can stain the enamel as well. Unlike intrinsic stains, extrinsic stains can be removed through whitening treatment. To prevent extrinsic stains from occurring, we encourage you to brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Additionally, drink water whenever you can since water cleans your mouth with every sip and you don’t have to worry about it staining your teeth.

If you have questions or concerns about stains or teeth whitening, please give us a call. 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. 

GLO Whitening

A whiter smile can do wonders for your self-esteem, which is why Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk offer GLO Whitening at their dental practice. With the GLO Whitening system, there is no sensitivity, no trays, and no lab costs associated with treatment. In fact, GLO Whitening is so convenient for the patient, that they have the choice to enjoy a whitening session in the office, or in the comfort of their own home.  

Invented by oral health expert Dr. Jonathan B. Levine, GLO Whitening is safe to use on crowns, caps, bonding, and veneers. After an in-office whitening session, the patient will be given a mouthpiece for at-home maintenance. With GLO Whitening, patients can increase the brightness of their smile by up to five shades.  If you aren’t showing teeth in photographs because you’re too embarrassed by their discoloration, inquire about GLO Whitening, today.

If you have questions or concerns about teeth whitening, please give us a call. 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. 

Halitosis in Children

Good breath is as important a part of a healthy smile as strong teeth, and that’s true for children, as well. When children suffer from chronic halitosis, it may be due to diabetes or a previously unknown allergy. However, it is usually due to bacterial build-up, which is why we want our patients to know about some of children’s particular hygiene issues in this area.

Excessive bacteria growth usually occurs in creviced tissue that regularly accumulates food debris. The tongue obviously fits this description, which is why children are encouraged to brush it as well as their teeth. The tonsils could also be a breeding ground for bacteria. Small children get frequent sinus infections, and nasal drip accumulating in the throat provides bacteria with another food source. Bad breath could also be a sign that a child has cankers or another kind of mouth sore.

People with dry mouth are particularly susceptible to bad breath because saliva is an important check on bacteria growth. Children often dry out from mouth breathing and may need to see a specialist for help. However, chewing sugar-free gum can work as a stop-gap to increase saliva production. Dry mouth is also a common medication side effect, including for ADHD and anxiety pills that are often prescribed to children. Parents may want to talk to their child’s doctor about getting an adjustment if this is an issue, as it poses a risk to both a child’s social life and their oral health.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

 

Acid Reflux and Tooth Decay

Patients at Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk’s dental offices receive preventive care appropriate for every part of life. Although childhood dental education emphasizes plaque as a major cause of tooth decay, one of the biggest threats to adults is acid reflux. We offer many services for repairing and strengthening enamel, but for the sake of acid reflux patients’ comfort, as well as their health, they will likely have to make some lifestyle changes.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is said to occur when a patient suffers heartburn at least twice a week.  Heartburn is actually caused by stomach acid escaping into the esophagus, burning soft tissues as it goes, and potentially getting as far as the mouth. Prolonged, repeated exposure to acid causes enamel to erode, leaving teeth discolored, sensitive, and misshapen. Because of their position in the mouth, it is often the inward and downward facing sides of the upper teeth which are most affected. Smoothing of the molars could cause problems for the patient’s bite.

Sealants can help strengthen teeth, but enamel cannot be regrown once it has been lost. Partial crowns are valuable tools for reversing the damage of acid reflux, but to prevent further problems, patients should reduce their intake of high-fat and acidic food, as well as alcohol, chocolate, and caffeine. Patients are also advised to not eat in large quantities before lying down and to quit smoking.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

 

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

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 Leo B. for this five-star review, but we would like to thank him for being an excellent patient. If you recently experienced exceptional service from our offices, please let us know!  

 “My entire family and I have been patients of this practice for many years. This is a solid, professional, well-run practice. All three dentists and their staff will take care of you without trying to sell you anything you don't need for your dental health.”

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.

Gum Line Corrections

A gum line correction, which you may have heard called crown lengthening, is a fancy way of saying sculpting the gum line.  During this procedure, a dentist removes excess gum tissue to expose more tooth.  Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk perform this procedure for patients looking for a cosmetic solution and patients needing dental restorations. 

We see many patients who are unhappy with the overall appearance of their smile, and patients with a gummy smile often ask what can be done to achieve the look they want.  We are happy to offer gum line correction so that any patient can have their perfect smile.  Gum line corrections are also performed when patients receiving dental restorations need a better surface for the crown or other restoration to attach to.  Eliminating excess gum tissue allows the restoration to be fit over the tooth

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk trat patients at two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. You can also visit Miami-Dental.com and fill out a contact form.

Mouth Protection for Sports

Are you and your family getting active in sports this season?  We want adults and children to know they may be overlooking an important safety precaution.  Athletes participating in any contact sport are advised to wear some kind of mouth protection. A mouth guard helps prevent damage to the teeth and jaw, and also helps prevent injuries to the cheeks, tongue, and lips.  The best way to protect your mouth during sports activities is with a custom-fit mouth guard. 

You can find generic mouth guards in most sporting goods stores but these often end up feeling uncomfortable, leading to child and teenage athletes in particular not wearing the protection at all. A bulky or cushioned mouth guard can even interrupt breathing and speaking. Custom mouth guards can be fit over braces and won’t interrupt normal activity.  Have a dentist perform a custom mouth guard fitting and get a mouth guard made of thin, hard plastic that protects your teeth and still fits comfortably.  This is an easy precaution to take for athletes, and you can go right back to playing your best.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. You can also visit Miami-Dental.com and fill out a contact form.

Scaling and Root Planing

In its most advanced stages, gum disease can lead to gum recession and even tooth loss.  We want to help you make sure it never gets to that stage.  When sticky bacteria called plaque builds up on a tooth, the gum starts to pull away from the tooth and form a pocket around the buildup.  This only leads to more gum recession.  Scaling and root planing are used to treat this buildup and prevent the later stages of gum disease.

Scaling and root planing are two parts of a deep cleaning procedure we can perform to repair gums. The procedure begins with scaling, the process of removing plaque from the surface of your teeth all the way down to your gums. This is followed by root planing, which involves minor contouring to smooth the surface of a tooth near the root.  Once the plaque has been removed and the tooth root has been smoothed, the gums that have pulled away have a clean, smooth surface to reattach to.
  
Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. You can also visit Miami-Dental.com and fill out a contact form.

Flossing with a Waterpik

Traditional flossing removes food particles between your teeth and under the gumline, so how does water flossing compare? Though water flossing is another way to clean teeth, this method involves using a hand-held device. Water flossing can be ideal for people who have trouble flossing by hand and Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk want patients to know that if they are going to invest in a water flosser it should have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Even if you’ve been water flossing for years, nothing beats good old dental floss. Water flossers have been tested to be safe and effective for removing plaque, and are helpful if you’ve had dental work done, such as bridges or braces. Depending on which flossing technique you decide to use, keep in mind that cleaning between your teeth should never be painful. Talk to our doctors and discuss which dental cleaner is best for you. 


If you have questions about oral hygiene, 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.

Oral Cancer Awareness Month

Combating oral cancer is one of our top priorities at the offices of Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk. April is oral cancer awareness month, and although our advanced Velscope technology helps us to screen patients at every exam, it is more important than ever for patients to be aware of warning signs of oral pathology and share them with us.

Last year, oral cancers associated with the human papilloma virus (HPV) outpaced the number of new oral cancer diagnoses associated with tobacco and alcohol. While this demonstrates the success of anti-smoking campaigns, it also presents new challenges because HPV oral cancers usually occur in the back of the mouth and top of the throat, a region called the oropharynx. This region is harder to examine visually. Furthermore, there is no way of testing for oral HPV itself. There are hundreds of HPV strains, only one of which causes oral cancer, and the epithelial layer of the throat is so creviced that random scrapings are unlikely to catch any infected cells.

Keeping in mind that abstinence from smoking and alcohol does not guarantee a lack of oral cancer, people should learn to recognize pain, swelling, and numbness in their throats, jaws, and ears as reasons to get an examination. The good news is that throat cancer screenings can still be done through tactile screenings, and HPV-associated cancers are much more responsive than tobacco-associated cancers to treatment.


Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163^rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Veneers

Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk are always being asked about the latest cosmetic solutions for their teeth. Some fixes are recommended just to repair damage or just to whiten, but porcelain veneers remain one of the best ways to give your mouth a total makeover. Veneers are custom-made porcelain shells that bond directly to the surface of your teeth.  This gives you the opportunity to completely change the appearance of your smile and still look natural.

Patients with cosmetic issues like staining, cracked or chipped teeth, and even crooked teeth and small gaps can achieve a dazzling smile with veneers. You can have a new smile using veneers in as little as two visits. First, your dentist will discuss the shape and look you want for your new smile.  Then an impression of your teeth is taken in order to custom-fit the final product to the surfaces of your teeth. Quite often, to achieve the most ideal result, some shaping or modification of your teeth prior to the impression is necessary. On your final visit, the veneers are bonded to your teeth for you to wear and enjoy!

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, www.Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

What Is A Sealant?

Dental sealants are a preventative measure used to preserve the teeth and tooth enamel. Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk take pride in helping families and children care for their oral health and know that almost half of all children and adolescents in the United States have had cavities in their permanent teeth. Dental sealants are thin plastic coatings that are applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth to prevent decay. Most tooth decay in children and teenagers occurs on the chewing surfaces where pits and grooves tend to trap food and bacteria.

A sealant is applied to those chewing surfaces like paint. The plastic resin fills any pits and grooves on the surface and hardens. The sealant keeps food out of these pits and grooves so that bacteria cannot multiply and cause decay.  Sealants also protect tooth enamel from plaques and acids, and can effectively prevent cavities for up to ten years. If you think you or your family would benefit from a dental sealant, our dentists can determine if you are eligible candidates and start preserving your teeth!

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, www.Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Thumb Sucking

We serve families and patients of all ages at the Miami Beach and North Miami Beach offices of Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk, and are proud to offer new parents guidance on their children’s oral health. Thumb-sucking is a common behavior in young children, and first-time parents are often unsure of whether this is a bad thing or not. The answer depends on at what point the child stops.

Toddlers often feel soothed by sucking on their thumbs or a pacifier, and provided they don’t do it too hard, their mouths will grow into the right shape if they cease before the age of five. However, if the behavior continues as they lose their first baby teeth and their adult teeth come in, they may experience malocclusions, jaw misalignment, and warped upper palates. Sometimes they substitute thumb sucking with pushing against their front teeth with their tongues, which causes the same problems.

By the time a child is old enough for thumb-sucking to be a problem, it may be possible to reason with them and include them in strategies to get them to stop. If the child is suffering from deep-seated feelings of anxiety, help from a psychologist may be necessary. There are orthodontic devices which can discourage thumb sucking and tongue thrusting, but these are usually for the most serious cases.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 310, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, www.Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Warning Signs of Implant Failure

Drs. Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk have restored endosteal implants to many Miami residents and are proud of the improvements patients experience after receiving these tooth restorations. However, implants don’t always last forever, and sometimes our doctors have to treat people whose implants have failed. Patients should be aware of the warning signs something’s wrong with an implant both immediately following surgery and later on.

Surgical procedures always result in soreness and patients are taught how to manage bleeding after receiving implants. However, bleeding should not last for longer than three days, and pain should have noticeably improved after this time. If there is no change or things are getting worse, there may have been something wrong with the procedure. It may be that the patient is allergic to the titanium screw or the implant was placed on a nerve, in which cases it must be removed.
It is also possible for an implant to be placed successfully but fail later on. Implants help reinforce the jaw bone, but if the jaw bone continues to lose mass, the implant will have to be removed before it becomes loose. An implant should never be able to move, and if it does, patients will have incontrovertible proof of implant failure. However, it may be possible to salvage a formerly successful implant in certain situations.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 110, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Caring for Dentures

The doctors and staff of Ressler, Hirschl, and Lelchuk’s Miami dental offices strive to help maintain the dental health of our patients who wear dentures. To that end, we provide our patients with instructions on how to care for their replacement sets of teeth to keep them working in good condition.

Partial, full-mouth, and implant supported dentures all need to be removed on a nightly basis. To prevent them from drying out, they should be placed in cool or room-temperature water or cleaning solution—not hot water. Dentures are usually made of plastic and can easily warp in high temperatures. If they do or stop fitting as the patient’s mouth changes naturally over time, they’ll need to be refitted by a professional.

Dentures need to be brushed, but not with the same kind of toothpaste as normal teeth. Because they do not produce a biological film, dentures are much more vulnerable to being scratched by gritty materials in toothpaste. Patients should, however, continue to brush their empty mouths prior to inserting their dentures. This will restore some feeling as well as contributing to oral hygiene. Only soft-bristled toothbrushes should ever be used for anything dental-related.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 110, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Why Do We Floss?

Every time you visit our doctors Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, for a cleaning the hygienist or doctor probably reminds you to floss or mentions that you aren’t flossing enough. They tell you this with good reason because floss is the single most important weapon against plaque, perhaps more important than a toothbrush. A toothbrush cleans the surfaces of your teeth, but dental floss cleans between them. By flossing your teeth daily, you increase the chance of keeping them for a lifetime and decrease your chance of developing gum disease.

Flossing does more than keeping your smile pretty and healthy. It removes plaque and debris that sticks to teeth and gums in-between teeth, polishes tooth surfaces, and controls bad breath. Many people don’t spend enough time flossing or they might not have been taught to floss properly. To give your teeth a good flossing, spend at least two or three minutes on the process and be gentle to your gums.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, 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.

Why You Might Need a Root Canal

If the cause of your toothache is serious decay or infection in the tooth pulp, our doctors Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, may recommend a root canal. A root canal is a multi-step dental procedure that involves removing the infected tooth pulp (and sometimes the nerve) from a tooth and sealing it to protect against future tooth pain.

Not all types of tooth decay are indications for a root canal. But signs of infection severe enough to require a root canal include: severe toothache pain upon chewing or application of pressure, prolonged sensitivity (pain) to hot or cold temperatures (after the heat or cold has been removed), discoloration (darkening) of the tooth, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, and a persistent or recurring pimple on the gums. Root canal therapy helps you maintain your natural smile, continue eating the foods you love and limit the need for ongoing dental work. With proper care, most teeth that have had root canal treatment can last as long as other natural teeth and often for a lifetime.

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, 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.

Laser Therapy for Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that starts out as plaque – an opaque film on the teeth that hardens to form calculus or tartar. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria which attack the soft tissue around the gums. This early stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis. Here at the office of Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, our doctors can address the underlying infection that causes it with a procedure utilizing a laser.

With laser treatment, there are many reported benefits such as a reduced need for local anesthesia, minimal bleeding, and swelling is controlled with minimal discomfort. Laser light energy is used to vaporize the bacteria and infected tissue in the deepened gum pocket. This procedure is painless, takes less than 10 minutes and reduces the bacteria around your gums from billions to hundreds.
If you suffer from mouth pain caused by gum disease, 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.

Electric Toothbrush Apps

The makers of electric toothbrushes are constantly coming up with new features. This year, many of them are rolling out apps for mobile devices. These apps are mostly geared toward people with disabilities and children who are having trouble learning oral hygiene and are meant to make brushing easier.

Studies show that electric toothbrushes are not significantly better than manual ones when people brush properly, but proper brushing takes at least two minutes per session. Even most people who are able to do this don’t. Though electric toothbrushes are much faster, they also have to be used properly. Some of the new apps provide the user with feedback about which parts of their teeth they’re skipping over and whether the frequency of their toothbrush’s vibrations needs to be adjusted. The apps for children encourage them to brush for the right amount of time by providing them with video games to play while brushing. They are rewarded in-game for brushing properly, and will hopefully learn a lifelong habit. Electric toothbrushes are expected to remain an expensive investment, but they may be worthwhile for people who need help figuring out what they’re doing wrong or extra encouragement.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 110, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Receding Gums

Gum recession isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it also leaves the roots of teeth painfully exposed and sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. There are a number of things which could cause gum recession, including tooth misalignment and genetics, but the reason is usually periodontal disease. If so, the treatments range from routine to requiring the attention of a periodontal specialist.

Healthy gums form snug pockets around tooth roots. But there’s always space for bacteria and plaque to accumulate, and if they cause the surrounding tissue to corrode, they will have room to expand to. During deep cleanings, dentists and hygienists remove the decay-causing plaque, but something must be done about the enlarged pockets and exposed tooth roots or the problem will simply return. Scaling and root planing are standard ways of combating plaque, but reducing gum pockets and covering bone requires cutting a flap in the gums. Usually, this requires only a single incision and a suture to hold the flap in place. The most severe cases are the ones periodontal specialists are called in for to do a gum graft. This could involve either a transplant or the use of artificial gum material.

Dr. Allen Ressler, Dr. Andrew Hirschl, and Dr. Ira Lelchuk operate from two locations. To schedule an appointment at the location at Mount Sinai Medical Center, 4300 Alton Road, Suite 1190, Miami Beach, Florida, 33140, call 305-532-1444. To schedule an appointment at Intracoastal Mall, 3909 NE 163rd St, Suite 110, North Miami Beach, Florida, 33160, call 305-949-2630. They can also be reached on their website, Miami-Dental.com, through a contact form.

Tooth-Friendly Diet

Most people don’t realize that they may be able to prevent two of the most common diseases of modern civilization, tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease, simply by improving their diet. We all love our fair share of junk food, but what we eat and how often we eat are important factors to help maintain good oral health. Doctors Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, can’t be your nutritionists, but they can recommend foods that are healthy for your teeth.

Decay happens when the teeth and other hard tissues of the mouth are destroyed by acid products from oral bacteria. Certain foods and food combinations are linked to higher levels of cavity-causing bacteria. Foods that cling to your teeth promote tooth decay. So when you snack, try to avoid soft, sweet, and sticky foods such as cakes, candy, and dried fruits. Instead, choose to munch on cheeses, chicken or other meats, nuts, and milk. Other excellent food choices include firm/crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and celery. These foods help protect against decay by buffering the acid that demineralizes teeth.

If you have further questions about how diet affects your 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.

Laser Therapy for Gum Disease

Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that starts out as plaque – an opaque film on the teeth that hardens to form calculus or tartar. As tartar accumulates, it harbors bacteria which attack the soft tissue around the gums. This early stage of gum disease is called Gingivitis. Here at the office of Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, our doctors can address the underlying infection that causes it with a procedure called Laser Bacterial Reduction (LBR).

With laser treatment, there are many reported benefits such as a reduced need for local anesthesia, minimal bleeding, and swelling is controlled with minimal discomfort. Laser light energy is used to vaporize the bacteria and infected tissue in the deepened gum pocket. This procedure is painless, takes less than 10 minutes and reduces the bacteria around your gums from billions to hundreds. Our doctors recommend that all of our patients have their teeth decontaminated prior to cleaning appointments.

If you suffer from mouth pain caused by gum disease, 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.

Wisdom Tooth Decay

As we age, we acquire wisdom, and the same goes for wisdom teeth. Wisdom teeth appear between the ages of 17-21 and are known as the third set of molars. When they erupt correctly, healthy wisdom teeth can help you chomp your food a little faster.  However, if they start to cause you pain and discomfort, you may need to schedule a consultation with the Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, to discuss extraction.

If you bite on a piece of food that is too hard or you experience a mouth injury, wisdom teeth may become troublesome. They can also become cracked, broken, and decayed. Decay can form on any tooth surface, but when the decay begins to attack the wisdom teeth, depending on the position of the tooth it becomes difficult to clean. Depending on the individual case, one of our doctors may be able to fill the tooth, but even in cases where a filling could be successfully placed, if the wisdom tooth cannot be adequately maintained, recurrent decay can occur. Though many patients tend to procrastinate through the process, extraction is always best to avoid infection.

If your wisdom teeth are still intact and you have questions about removal, 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.

Cavity Causes

Dental cavities are common, affecting over 90 percent of the population. As much as we love to see you at the dental practice of Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, our staff would rather you prevent them altogether. The number of cavities can be reduced by proper nutrition, excellent oral hygiene, few snacks in between meals, the use of oral or topical fluorides, and topical sealants. But where do they come from if you are already receiving one or more of the above?

Cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth consume simple sugars, converting them into acid plaque. Acid plaque is different from the periodontal plaque that causes gum disease. The reason is that acid plaque produced by these bacteria cause the hard inorganic layers of the enamel and dentin to soften. The softened layers are then dissolved by saliva, leaving a hole (cavity) in the tooth. Small cavities may go unnoticed, but the larger cavities can collect food, and the inner pulp of the affected tooth can become irritated by toxins and cause a severe toothache.

If you suspect you have a cavity, 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.

Benefits of a Good Night’s Sleep

It’s no surprise that sleep plays a vital role in our health and well-being. After all, without sleep, we would all be zombies. Getting enough quality sleep on a daily basis can help protect your mental health, physical health, improve your quality of life and safety. If you aren’t getting enough sleep lately for whatever reason, visit our doctors Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, to rule out serious health issues such as sleep apnea.

Sleep is important for endless reasons. It is connected to the healing and repair of your heart vessels. Therefore, if sleep deficiency is left untreated, it can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stroke. In addition to assisting in the rejuvenation of your body, sleep help keeps your heart healthy, reduces stress, improves your memory and can help control body weight issues.

If your quality of sleep is being compromised, 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.

Thank You For Your Testimonials!

Here at the dental practice of Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, 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 Felita C. 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! 

“I totally trust Dr. Hirschl and his patient care is stellar. Just had a problem with a tooth and rather than going straight to putting in a crown, Dr. Hirschl opted for a conservative approach and redo the filling. He is not an up seller of services; just honest with what is truly needed. He recognizes & understands his patient's needs. He's been my dentist since moving to FL 15 yrs. ago and though I've since moved an hour north of his office I continue seeing him as my dentist. Oh, and his staff is really nice.” –Felita C. – Patient since 1999

If you would like to leave a testimonial or are interested in learning more about the services we provide 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.

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At our Miami Beach and North Miami Beach dental practice, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.
When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.
• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.
• Visit us for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, 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.

Dental Bonding Benefits

Dental bonding is a procedure in which a tooth-colored resin material is applied and hardened with a special light, which ultimately “bonds” the material to the tooth to restore or improve a person’s smile. Dental bonding may be considered when a tooth is chipped or cracked, to repair decayed teeth, to close spaces between teeth, and to improve the appearance of discolored teeth. The first step in deciding whether dental bonding is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our doctors Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, so you can discuss your treatment goals.

One of the top benefits of dental bonding is that it’s the easiest and least expensive cosmetic dental procedure. In addition, the composite resin used in bonding can be shaped and polished to match the surrounding teeth. Sometimes, bonding also is used as a cosmetic alternative to amalgam fillings, or to protect a portion of the tooth’s root that has been exposed when gums recede.

If you believe you may benefit from dental bonding, 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.

How Do Teeth Become Worn Down?

Worn down teeth can cause pain, sensitivity, discoloration, and they can begin to change shape. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA of Miami Beach, FL and N. Miami Beach, FL want their patients to know how teeth can become worn down. Here are a few of the common ways it can happen.

Brushing Abrasively
As we have mentioned before, brushing too hard can begin to wear down your enamel. Use soft bristles and a light scrub to remove plaque. Anything more can wear down enamel. When looking for a new toothbrush, make sure the label does not say hard or firm. Soft or medium are your best bets.

Homemade Whitening
If you are on Facebook or Pinterest, you may have seen homemade teeth whitening recipes pop up on your feed. While sometimes they can be effective, they can also be dangerous for your teeth. For instance, recipes with baking soda can end up wearing down your teeth. Baking soda is extremely abrasive. While it is useful, it is only okay in small doses.

Acidic Foods and Drinks
Are you someone who habitually drinks an energy drink to get you through the afternoon? Or do you have a soda with your dinner every night? It may be time to make those drinks treats instead of everyday occurrences. This is because drinks like soda are filled with acid. Too much of it can lead to the erosion of your teeth. This also includes hard candies, citrus fruits, and more.

For the sake of your enamel, keep these tips in mind. To schedule your next cleaning and examination with Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, call our Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 532-1444 or our N. Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 949-2630. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.miami-dental.com.

The Wrong Ways to Brush

Do you brush your teeth two to three times per day? If so, great! However, did you know that there is such a thing as brushing them in a harmful way? Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA of Miami Beach, FL and N. Miami Beach, FL want you to know the ways you should not brush your teeth.

Brushing After Eating or Drinking
While you should brush after meals, it is advised to wait a little while before doing so. This is because some of our food and drinks may contain acid which softens our enamel. When we brush our teeth right afterward, the softened enamel can be brushed away. To further help get rid of the acid, rinse your mouth out with water after eating or drinking something especially acidic, like soda.

Brushing With Too Much Force
It does not take much to remove plaque. Soft bristles with a light touch isenough. Stiff bristles or brushing too hard can wear down enamel and irritate gums, leading to cavities, darkened teeth, and gum recession.

Using the Wrong Toothbrush
Our mouths are all different. Our teeth are placed differently and we are all different sizes. Because of this, you should choose a toothbrush that is the right fit. Too large of a toothbrush will be too difficult to maneuver around a smaller mouth. This could mean you end up missing spots!

For healthy and strong teeth, keep these tips in mind. To schedule your next cleaning and examination with Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, call our Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 532-1444 or call our N. Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 949-2630. Appointments may also be requested by visiting our website, www.miami-dental.com.

Do You Spend Enough Time Brushing?

When brushing your teeth, do you spend enough time? When you hit all of your mouth’s surfaces adequately, you should be spending about two minutes brushing. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA of Miami Beach, FL and N. Miami Beach, FL want to give some tips for making sure you brush for a long enough amount of time.

Tunes
Play your favorite song while brushing your teeth. Most music players have a timer on it as the song plays. Use it to make sure you are brushing for two minutes. To get an even brushing, spend thirty seconds on each quadrant in your mouth.

Quadrants
Speaking of those quadrants, splitting them up can help you keep track. Spend thirty seconds on your upper-left teeth, your upper-right teeth, lower-left, and lower-right. Then, be sure to clean your tongue, the roof of your mouth, and the insides of your cheeks.

Timers
These days, timers are easy to find. There is probably a timer on your cell phone! However, you can add to your bathroom’s décor and buy a more interesting-looking timer like an hourglass (minute-glass) or a clock.

Timely Toothbrushes
Many electric and manual toothbrushes have timers now! They either play music for two minutes or they stop their vibration a few times after two minutes.

For a healthy mouth, do a good job brushing and come in for your routine dental cleanings. To schedule an appointment with Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, call our Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 532-1444 or our N. Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 949-2630. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.miami-dental.com.

Brushing and Flossing with Braces

Brushing and flossing are something you (hopefully) do several times per day. When you have braces on, however, that normal routine needs to change a bit in order to keep good dental health. Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA of Miami Beach, FL and N. Miami Beach, FL want to ensure their patients know how to brush with braces on.

While wearing braces, the brackets create extra hiding spots for plaque, which means more opportunity for cavities and staining. For this reason, there are techniques and tools that can help you do a good job.

When brushing, make sure to include the brackets into your routine. After brushing the chewing surfaces, angle the toothbrush and brush along the tops of all the brackets. Do the same for the bottom of the brackets. To hit the sides of them, use an interdental toothbrush. These are very small brushes that can get underneath the wires, unlike your regular toothbrush. You want to be sure you can see the edges of the brackets, afterward.

In order to floss with braces, it will be helpful to own Superfloss or floss threaders. These make it easy to get the floss underneath the wires of the braces. Floss normally, going underneath the gums and paying extra attention to the molars.

Be extra-careful when taking care of your smile with braces. A good dental routine will help keep your orthodontic treatment on the right tracks. It will also ensure you have a beautiful, stain-free smile when your braces come off. To schedule an appointment with Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, call our Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 532-1444 or our North Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 949-2630. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.miami-dental.com.

Kids' Dental Fears

Dental fear often starts out in childhood. While we understand there are kids who fear dental appointments, we also know there are ways to make them feel better. At Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA in Miami Beach and N. Miami Beach, FL, we want all of our patients to feel comfortable in our dental chairs. Read on for tips on how to make kids feel more at ease for their dental appointments.

Kids feel more comfortable when they are familiar with something. This means the earlier you start bringing your child to the dentist, the more familiar they will be with the process. Kids should start seeing the dentist when their first tooth starts growing in, or by the age of one if that hasn’t happened yet.  If your schedule permits, bring them with you when you are having a cleaning. That way they will have seen the office and met some of the staff before their first appointment.

For young kids who have never been to the dentist before or who do not remember going, you can play “pretend dentist” with them at home. Have them lean back in a recliner chair or a couch. Have them open wide and “examine” their teeth by counting each one. You can even take a dry toothbrush and “clean” each one of their teeth. Showing them what will happen at the dental office will help them feel more at ease.

In addition to familiarity, kids do better when they know reasoning. Explain to them why they need to see the dentist. Educational videos and tools may help with this.
Kids’ teeth are just as important as adult teeth. To schedule your family’s next appointment with Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA, call our Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 532-1444 or our N. Miami Beach, FL office at (305) 949-2630. Appointments may also be requested through our website, www.miami-dental.com.

Tips for Keeping Fresh Breath

Bad breath is not pleasant; especially for the person you are talking with or sharing a car with. At Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA in Miami Beach and North Miami Beach, FL, we strive to help our patients achieve optimal dental health. Take some of our tips for keeping fresh breath.

Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth. In order to fight the odor, you need to fight the bacteria. This is one of the reasons why it is so important to brush and floss. In addition, while brushing your teeth, brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth. Brush two to three times per day and floss at least once per day.

Keeping your mouth hydrated is another important step. Bacteria thrive in dry mouth conditions. Therefore, drink your daily recommended amount of water to stay hydrated. Avoid alcoholic drinks and caffeinated drinks, as these dry out your mouth. The properties of green tea actually fight odor-causing bacteria, so sip on that to keep hydrated and fresh.
If you have bad breath after eating a particularly smelly food, it may help to chew mint leaves, parsley, or lemon rinds. These neutralize odors and stimulate saliva.

Keeping fresh breath will not only ensure there are no awkward moments caused by bad breath, it will also ensure you are keeping bacteria levels to a minimum! To learn more about dental hygiene, visit our website, www.miami-dental.com. Appointments at Ressler, Hirschl, & Lelchuk, DDS, PA can be made by calling our Miami Beach office at (305) 532-1444 or calling our North Miami Beach office at (305) 949-2630.