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One of the best resolutions individuals can make each January is to recommit to their physical and mental health. These top Toledo area doctors share what they wish people knew about their specialty, suggest a new habit or two to improve overall health, and disclose their own advice for a healthy, happy New Year. Their tips are surprisingly simple yet often overlooked. Read on for their professional words of wisdom, and perhaps vow to add a few of these habits to your daily ritual.
André Haerian DDS., MS., FRCD., PhD
HLS Orthodontics
Toledo, Sylvania, Maumee, and Lambertville locations
419-740-0963 | Perfectbraces.com
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty?
Wisdom teeth don’t cause crowding; they disrupt the existing structure when facial structure changes and growth places more force on the lower anterior teeth. That’s why they create crowding.
If kids made one change regarding their teeth in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
Brush and floss and beware of hidden sugars
What sets your practice apart?
We are patient-centric; our offices are designed to invite parents to come back. Orthodontists do not have to be board-certified in Ohio and Michigan, but we are, and we have the most advanced technology around.
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
Eating too much processed food.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
Eat and sleep well, choose your providers with care, and SMILE.
F. Nicholas Shamma, M.D.
Reproductive Endocrinologist, President of IVF Michigan Fertility Centers, Founder of Gift of Life Surrogacy Agency
Toledo Fertility Center-IVF Michigan Fertility Centers
6711 Monroe St, Sylvania
419-885-8080 | Ivf-mi.com
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regards to your specialty?
Advancing female reproductive age is the crucial factor affecting fertility. Women should be proactive in seeking fertility expert advice as soon as possible if they are older and should not waste time, effort, and emotion in therapies that are not effective. The potential for fertility preservation (egg freezing) should be considered for all women in their early to mid-30s who have not yet achieved a pregnancy.
If individuals added one new habit regarding their health in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
Women and men should strive to have a healthy lifestyle when fertility is a consideration. That includes a reasonable weight, avoiding excessive alcohol intake, and certainly avoiding smoking and vaping.
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
The biggest mistake is delaying care in the context of advancing female reproductive age.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
At The Gift of Life Surrogacy Agency and Toledo Fertility Center, we recognize the emotional toll that fertility concerns have on intended parents and families. We hope that 2020 is the year when dreams and hopes come true, recognizing that our centers offer exceptional care and service to help make this possible.
Maleigha Watts, N.D.
Toledo Naturopathic
13 South 3rd Street, Waterville
419-376-6104 | toledonaturopathic.com
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regards to your specialty?
I wish people knew how simple changes with nutrition and lifestyle can significantly change your health.
If families made one change regarding their health in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
Start focusing on whole foods — nutrient dense foods — that don’t have a label or come in a package.
What sets your practice apart?
I work with patients in areas that are going unrecognized in most primary care offices, like how nutrition choices can improve health (or negatively affect health) and how to have healthier daily habits. I also work to help patients investigate the underlying cause to symptoms or health concerns. This is where we see healing start: when we can focus on treating the cause instead of symptom management.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
As you look towards 2020, find ways to incorporate more self-care, regularly. If you live a lifestyle where you are frequently filling other people’s cups, don’t forget to fill yours (first!).
Debbie Evers, RDH, EFDA
Team Leader
Sylvania Pediatric Dental Care
5860 W Alexis Rd, Sylvania
419.882.7187 | sylvaniapediatricdentalcare.com
If families made one change or added one new habit regarding their health in the New Year, what would you suggest they do?
Drink more water. It’s a great way to keep your teeth and body hydrated, clean, and healthy.
What sets your practice apart?
Our office provides pediatric-specific specialty dental care. We work with kids of all ages and LOVE what we do!
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
Following diet fads and trends. Nothing can replace simple, wholesome ingredients. Eat a variety of colors and try to find foods with as few modifications as possible.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
Be present. Life gets very busy at times and it is easy to lose sight of what really matters. Put down your devices and spend time connecting with your loved ones.
Erin Knierim, DMD, MS
3036 West Sylvania, Toledo
419-474-0733 | drknierim.com
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regards to your specialty?
A pediatric dentist is more than a dentist who loves kids; we have a minimum of 2 additional years of specialized training where we learn to treat the unique needs of your growing child. We love hanging out with kids all day (and their parents, too) and have limited our practices to only them. Kids should start seeing us by their first birthday!
If people could add a new habit regarding their health in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
Floss and drink more water. Flossing is an area most parents tell me they struggle with making a part of their routine. Make water your “go to” drink and save the juices and sports drinks for special occasions. Your teeth will thank you for both of these habits!
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their teeth?
I frequently get asked, “Why should I fix this tooth if it’s going to fall out anyway?” Yes, baby teeth will eventually fall out, but they are present for longer than many people realize. The average age children lose their first tooth is around 6 years old; molar teeth are present up until age 10 and well beyond for many kids.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
As parents we are always busy taking care of our kids and many others, so make sure to treat your own health as a priority, too. It’s easier to be a great parent when you are feeling happy and healthy!
DR. JON FRANKEL, DDS
Owner and Dentist
Jon Frankel Dentistry
5012 Talmadge Road, Suite 100, Toledo
419-474-9611 | jonfrankeldentistry.com
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regard to your specialty?
A healthy mouth promotes a healthy body.
If families added one new habit regarding their health in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
See your dentist twice a year for a comprehensive exam and oral cancer screening.
What sets your practice apart?
Our people! We have the best doctors, health care providers, staff and patients.
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
Missing healthy, twice-a-year dental wellness evaluations and not taking care of small issues before they become big problems.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
Brush and floss daily. See your dentist twice a year. Smile!
Dr. Ashley Muszynski, M.D.
ProMedica Physicians Oregon Pediatrics
2752 Bay Park Dr #303, Oregon
419-690-7676 | Promedica.org
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regards to your specialty?
Pediatrics is all about prevention. Starting good habits as children leads to continued healthy lifestyles as adults. Make sure to schedule your child’s regular well visits for those very important vaccines to build their budding immune system, provide a well-balanced diet to help them grow, and set active lifestyle habits together as a family.
If families made one change or added one new habit regarding their health in the New Year, what would you suggest they do?
Keep the whole family active! It is recommended that children get at least 60 minutes of activity a day. That doesn’t have to be limited to just the kids! Build great memories by going on family walks, bicycle rides, or even a snowball fight this winter.
What sets your practice apart?
Our practice is very family-centered. We are a growing practice that has a wonderful core of providers and staff. We strive to be flexible with scheduling on-time well visits and same day sick appointments in order to accommodate our patients’ schedules.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
Focus on being in the moment. We all have busy schedules, and we’re always on the go. Try to take 5-10 minutes a day to sit, relax and focus on the present instead of the next thing on our to-do list. It is amazing how quickly time flies by when you are only thinking about the future. Be present.
Ashley J. Hirzel, LMT
Owner
Open Arms Massage Studio Therapeutic Wellness Center
2300 Navarre Ave. Suite 204, Oregon
(419) 720-8604 Office | openarmsmassagestudio.com
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regards to your specialty?
Between work, family, and extracurricular activities, we stay busy. Our priorities outweigh our ME time. In 1 hour of massage, you gain the equivalent of 8 hours of sleep, increase circulation, lower blood pressure, and increase feel-good endorphins. You also help put energy back into your life! Open Arms continues to promote wellness through not only massage therapy, but also, professional skin care services and now yoga and meditation for a full mind/body/spirit makeover.
If families made one change or added one new habit regarding their health in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
Put down the electronics, especially your phones. Send cards, letters and pictures again, start a family game or movie night tradition, and begin enjoying that “me” time, but also include your family!
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
I do not believe there is a mistake. It is a choice and if that person would turn the choice into a better one, they would improve their outlook on the life they are choosing to live.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
Start living! Enjoy the little things and take care of you!
KRISTEN L. ZIENTEK, MSW, LSW
Program Coordinator
NAMI Greater Toledo
2753 W. Central Ave., Toledo
419-243-1119 | namitoledo.org
What’s something you wish people knew about their health in regards to your specialty?
I wish people understood the importance of mental wellness. Mental Illness is among the most common illnesses in the United States, so we all must take care of our own mental wellness, no matter who we are.
What sets your practice apart?
NAMI Greater Toledo is a grassroots, peer-oriented organization that supports individuals and family members impacted by mental illness FREE OF COST! Individuals should choose us if they are in need of support for themselves or a loved one.
We offer free support groups, education classes, and assistance in navigating the mental health system.
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
The biggest mistake I see people make, myself included, is comparing their lives to others. It is very important to acknowledge that every person’s journey is unique. Therefore, each life journey cannot/should not be compared.
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
No matter how busy life gets, never forget to take time to do those things that help you relax. It is so important! Take occasional breaks from phone/social media to spend quality time with those you love. Try to take 10 minutes to move each day! Exercise can help you both physically and mentallyl. Focus on gratitude; identifying three things you are thankful for each day (even if they are small) can improve your happiness and decrease depression.
Dr. Nick Goin
Chiropractor, Owner
Innate Health Chiropractic
26580 N. Dixie Hwy. Suite 101, Perrysburg
(419) 872-2255 | getinnatehealth.com
What tips do you have for a happy, healthy 2020?
Getting you and your families spine and nervous system checked is one of the greatest gifts you can give to your family. Your spine controls the function of your nervous system, and your nervous system controls all the functions in your body. A healthier spine and nervous system always leads to a healthier you!
If families made one change or added one new habit regarding their health in the new year, what would you suggest they do?
One habit to implement in the New Year would be to start each day with writing down 3 things you are grateful for. Starting your day with gratitude sets a positive frame of mind. When you begin each day with a positive frame of mind, you are setting yourself up for greater success and happiness!
What’s the biggest mistake you see people making when it comes to their health?
People often don’t make their health a priority. Your health is one ofyour greatest assets and should be treated as so. What you invest into today will determine your tomorrow.
