Local leaders in the health industry share tips and tricks to keep you healthy all year long.
Dr. Jennifer Ludwig, DDS
Drs. Haerian, Ludwig & Simon Orthodontics
6407 Monroe Street
Sylvania, OH 43560
419-882-1017
www.perfectbraces.com
Orthodontist Dr. Jennifer Ludwig, DDS finds being a positive influence in her patients’ lives extremely rewarding. “Even though orthodontics is our specialty, at our office we care about the health of the patient attached to the teeth!” Dr. Ludwig shares her top health tips for 2017:
“Having your child evaluated by an orthodontist at an early age is key.” The American Orthodontic Association recommends an orthodontic evaluation at age 7 to establish a baseline and monitor development of jaws and teeth. “There is no charge for this service, and in most cases, we check children yearly until most permanent teeth have erupted. There are a few times, however, when early treatment is advised in cases of jaw size discrepancy or eruption issues. In either case, it’s reassuring for parents to know that development is right on track.”
To keep your kids healthy in general, “Avoid Sugary Drinks! Parents are aware of the ample amounts of sugar in soft drinks but might think juice or a sports drink is a much healthier option. The bottom line is that all of these drinks can cause cavities.”
For parents, “Set the example! Even though our specialty is straightening teeth and aligning jaws, we know it’s even more important to have healthy teeth and gums. Visit your dentist every six months for cleanings because oral health has been linked to heart health.”
Dr. Deborah Burke Thaler, DO
Dermatology Associates
The Progressive Wellness Center
7640 W Sylvania Ave. Suite E
Sylvania, OH 43560
419-872-0777
daohio.com
Dr. Deborah Burke Thaler, DO, Board Certified Family Physician with exclusive focus in Dermatology, is a poster-child for radiant skin, thanks, in part, to careful avoidance of the sun. Known for treating patients with skin cancers, performing full body skin examinations, and treating acne and other rashes, Dr. Burke Thaler is at the top of her game.
“Sun protection is very important. Advise your children to never tan in a tanning bed, tanning booth or even lay out in natural sunlight. I recommend SPF 30 or higher all year round, sun protective clothing and hats. Sunburns can lead to skin cancer and premature signs of aging. Sun damage is due to cumulative sun exposure and therefore it is never too early to be smart about sun protection.”
To help keep your kids healthy throughout the year and especially during the flu season, “… Frequent hand washing is important…avoid alcohol-based antibacterial hand washes, as they can be very drying and irritating to our children’s hands.”
For parents, “Eat healthy well balanced meals, drink water, exercise regularly, avoid smoking and protect yourself from the sun. Routine physical examinations and a yearly skin examination are ways to be proactive in keeping yourself healthy.”
Dr. Jon Frankel, DDS
Jon Frankel Dentistry
5012 Talmadge Rd #100
Toledo, OH 43623
419-474-9611
jonfrankeldentistry.com
An intense passion for dentistry has made Dr. Jon Frankel, DDS a household name in Toledo; his practice is one of the best in the area. His enthusiasm has no doubt catapulted his success.
“Teach your children to brush their teeth properly at least twice daily, eat a healthy diet, and bring them to the dentist twice a year. Making dental visits enjoyable is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give. A healthy mouth promotes a healthy body. Fun dental visits allow you and your child to take care of small issues before they become large problems.”
Dr. Frankel tells parents, “Kids learn by example. Take care of your dental health and let your child see you brush, floss, and visit the dentist. Your family’s beautiful healthy smiles will say it best.”
Dr. David Jackson, DO
Associate in Women’s Heath
5300 Harroun Rd, Ste. 201
Sylvania, Ohio 43560
419-843-4836
associnwomenshealth.com
Dr. David Jackson, a board-certified OBGYN, has more than 25 years of experience and prides himself on combining traditional and osteopathic/natural medicine to meet your unique healthcare needs.
“If you don’t have a regular physician, find one! He or she is a resource to review medications, discuss new problems and concerns, and discuss new treatments available. They will help you stay up to date on vaccinations and give recommendations for health screenings,” Dr. Jackson said. He encourages you to do your best to eat right and exercise regularly, which will have a positive effect on your overall health.
“Monthly breast exams are vital for breast health. You might detect a problem much sooner than your doctor. Keep up on screening tests including mammograms, pap tests and colonoscopies. All of these screenings can detect problems early and significantly improve outcomes.” For a healthy year, Dr. Jackson advises you to reduce stress. “Stress has harmful effects on the body and mind. Find a hobby and take some time for yourself.”
Dr. Lauren M. Czerniak, DDS
Hires Dental Care
3951 W. Sylvania Ave.
Toledo, OH 43623
419-475-6673
familydentisttoledo.com
Toledo native Dr. Lauren Czerniak, DDS, loves watching her alma mater, Ohio State University, football games as much as she enjoys practicing dentistry.
“Dental health is just as important as overall health. As soon as a child is born, parents begin to take them to the pediatrician to ensure that they are healthy and free of any childhood sickness or disease. In the same respect, as soon as a child gets their first few teeth, they should be seen by a dentist to check that all dental development is occurring correctly and to make sure there are no cavities forming. Dental cavities are the number one untreated childhood disease. When in doubt, just remember: First dental visit by the first birthday. It never hurts to start working towards a healthy smile early.”
For truly healthy teeth, “It’s not just about brushing and flossing! Although we often stress the importance of these two daily rituals, another important thing we need to be conscious of is…the foods and beverages given to children can make all the difference in having healthy teeth. Foods that are high in sugar like candy and soda are common culprits for cavities, but milk and juice are often overlooked. These beverages are high in natural sugars, which without proper oral hygiene will cause decay to occur. Limiting sweets, brushing twice daily and substituting water instead of juice will help promote a cavity free smile.”
Parents can and should lead by example. “Make going to the dentist a family affair. If children are being told to brush and are having regular dental visits, then parents should also be practicing good oral health care and making themselves an appointment when they make their children’s. Poor dental health can contribute to systemic health problems and periodontal disease. Good dental care is a learned behavior and parents should be their child’s first teachers.”
Dr. Erin Kneirem, DDS
and Dr. Jennifer Zoll, DDS
3036 W. Sylvania Ave.
Toledo, OH 43613
419-474-0733
www.drzoll.com
Dr. Erin Kneirem, DDS loves kids as much as she loves practicing dentistry. Her contagious enthusiasm ensures your child will have a fun, positive dental experience. Dr. Kneirem shares her top tips for keeping yourself and your children healthy:
“Oral health is integral to your child’s general health. Healthy baby teeth provide the ability to eat comfortably, smile with confidence and save space for developing permanent teeth. Yes, baby teeth will eventually fall out, but it is important to care for them beginning as soon as they first erupt into your child’s mouth (usually around 6 months of age) to help keep them free from pain and infection. 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. Dental cavities is the most common disease of childhood which, left untreated, can result in pain that can affect your child’s ability to perform well in school.”
What you put in your body is important! “Serve more whole foods and less processed foods. If your child wants a snack, think of things like fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts (if age appropriate) and cheese. Convenient pre-packaged snacks like animal crackers and fruit snacks are easy, but let those items be once in a while treats, not your “go-to” snack. I would much rather see a child eating an apple and a string cheese, than goldfish crackers and raisins.The stickier a food and the higher the content of refined carbohydrates the more likely they are to cause cavities,” Dr. Kneirem informs.
Parents, remember there are little eyes watching your every move. “Remember to set a good example for your kids by making the time to visit your dentist for regular check-ups and treatment. Practice good oral hygiene and eat a healthy diet as a family. As parents it is easy to put our health on the back burner, but make your dental care a priority too. Bringing your kids along to observe you getting something simple like a cleaning will help get them comfortable.”
Dr. NahrainM. Shasteen, OD, FAAO
Vision Associates
Promedica Wildwood Athletic Center
2865 N. Reynolds Rd. #170
Toledo, OH 43615
419-578-2020
www.visionassociates.net
Dr. Nahrain M. Shasteen provides comprehensive pediatric optometry services as well as vision therapy services for patients of all ages.
First and foremost, don’t neglect getting your children’s vision screened. “Many vision health issues can only be identified by a complete eye exam. Many parents feel if the child does not state any issues then none exist. This is not always the case. An eye exam will insure good vision and identify if any other issues need attention.”
“Make an appointment for an eye exam with an eye care specialist especially if they participate in sports to prevent injuries from poor eyesight. Advice can be given for proper eye protection for each various type of activity. Academics can also be severely affected if the child is not seeing well and it is not detected early. Children’s sunglasses are important, and can be purchased resistant to damage by activities.”
Parents should follow these same guidelines. “An annual eye exam is first and foremost. There are vitamins that eye care professionals can recommend to insure good eye health as well. If you wear contact lenses, be sure to follow your eye care professional’s recommendations. You can cause damage to your eyes by over wearing your contact lenses and not properly disinfecting your lenses. Even eyes that have no visual problems need regular exams to maintain health.”
Dr. Robert W. Mills, MD
Pediatracare Associates
7629 Kings Pointe Rd
Toledo, OH 43617
419-841-6202
Pediatrician Dr. Robert W. Mills has a genuineness that goes miles with his patients, not to mention their parents. With an unparalleled resolve to finding the answers, and a gentle manner that puts you at ease, your kiddos are in great hands with this Doc.
Prevention is the best weapon. “Making sure your children are getting enough sleep and keeping them up to date with their immunizations are two very important factors in their overall health and well-being. Good hand washing is the single most important step for infection prevention.”
This advice applies to grown-ups as well. “Parents need to make sure they themselves are getting enough sleep, get a yearly physical exam from their primary care provider, and make sure they have some form of stress reduction in their lives regularly (exercise, yoga, meditation, deep breathing techniques, etc.).”
Dr. Hadeel Abaza, MD
Pediatric Orthopedic Associates
7640 W Sylvania Ave. Suite B
Sylvania, OH 43560
419-517-7510
Dr. Hadeel Abaza, MD, is an Orthopedic Surgeon specializing in pediatrics. Daily, she tackles children’s growth problems and injuries, always with a smile.
For staying healthy in general, kids should “…eat a balanced diet, especially making sure to eat a healthy breakfast every day, and be active… from an orthopedic standpoint, avoid trampolines and monkey bars. They are high risk activities that cause a lot of injuries and fractures. Also making sure kids have enough Calcium and Vitamin D in their diet helps keep bones strong. Taking a multivitamin daily is a great way to boost those levels.”
Don’t forget to take care of yourself too! “For parents, staying healthy and being a good example for your kids includes not smoking, eating healthy with good portion control, drinking lots of water, and again being as active as possible.”
Dr. Anil K Gupta, MD, MBA
Sports Medicine and Shoulder Surgery
Hip Arthroscopy
Toledo Orthopaedic Surgeons
Wildwood Medical Center
2865 N. Reynolds Rd, Building A
Toledo, OH 43615
419-578-7200 | www.tolortho.com
Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Anil K. Gupta specializes in sports medicine and minimally invasive surgeries. While his repertoire includes treating members of the Chicago Bulls and White Sox, he derives just as much satisfaction treating local children and adults. If you (or your child) are sidelined by a sports injury, Dr. Gupta will make it his mission to get you back to your normal routine as quickly as possible.
From an orthopaedic perspective, always practice injury prevention. “…Sports medicine related injuries are very common in children and adolescents. Many of these injuries are related to overuse and can be prevented with careful oversight and health maintenance measures.”
Finding balance in life is an important skill we can teach our children from an early age. “Maintaining an appropriate balance of academics and athletics is a very effective way to maintain mental and physical well-being.” For parents, “Eat a well-balanced diet, exercise regularly, and play an active role in your children’s extracurricular activities. Never underestimate the importance of taking time for yourself and your spouse too.”
Dr. Stephanie M. Cole, MD
Promedica Surgeons Ear, Nose, and Throat
5700 Monroe St. Ste. 310
Sylvania, OH 43560
419-442-7893
ENT-Otolaryngologist Dr. Stephanie Cole provides high-level professional care and peace of mind to all of her patients. Never appearing rushed, Dr. Cole takes time to answer your questions, thoroughly.
Getting sick is a very real part of life. However, there are ways to tip the boat in your kids favor. “For most healthy children, the number of illnesses associated with exposures to other kids and adults such as at school will decrease as they get older and their immune systems get stronger. The numerous colds and respiratory infections young children get are helping to build their immune systems for later in life. You should always seek the advice of your child’s doctor if you have specific concerns. Help kids keep a healthy routine that involves plenty of sleep and exercise. It’s easy to get behind in both of these during the winter months when the weather is bad and there are many demands on our time.”
Don’t forget to take care of yourself too, moms and dads! “Parents also need to prioritize a healthy routine that includes sleep, exercise, and healthy foods during this time of year. Remember, if you get sick, the whole family’s schedule suffers.”
