Beautiful. Medicine.

Stress related health problems on the rise

Posted by: MIAMI Institute @ 9:10 am  — March 27, 2008

More and more people admit that stress is affecting their jobs, family life and health. Start with an unpredictable economy, pressure to maintain profitability and increased responsibilities. Add concerns about travel and workplace security, and you’ve got a pressure-cooker environment. “It’s no wonder that stress is high on the list of executive concerns this year,” says Dr. Juan Remos, Director of Wellness and Regenerative Medicine at Miami Institute of Age Management and Intervention.
 
Dr. Remos and his colleagues see hundreds of patients a year through the Miami Institute’s Wellness Health Program. Not all stress is bad. Whether you’re an executive or not, some degree of stress is a necessary part of life. Stress can be positive when it provides motivation to achieve your goals, Remos says. “However, when you have too much stress, or it lasts too long, it can be harmful to your health.”
Taking a stress inventory can help you reduce stress by pinpointing the cause. Trouble on the job, the death of a loved one and personal injury are obvious, but daily hassles and demands are easy to overlook. “Persistent little things like commuting, unproductive meetings, too many commitments and family arguments can wreak more havoc on your health over time than the intermittent big things,” Remos says.
He suggests people keep a stress journal, listing all the demands on their time and energy for one week. Once the stressors are identified, there are four ways to cope: Accept the situation, avoid it, alter it or adapt to it.
“Focus on changing the things you can and accepting the things you cannot,” Remos says. In addition, try:
Relabeling
Relaxing
Cardio exercise
Humor
Strengthening or establishing a support network
Making more personal time
Relaxing can reverse the physical effects of stress and make a person feel better, think better and perform better. Dr. Remos suggests people relax half an hour each day.
 
Attaching negative labels to too many situations makes life seem hopeless. Dr. Remos suggests relabeling situations with a positive outlook. Instead of thinking, “No one communicates,” try, “I’ll open the channels of communication.” Instead of thinking, “It’s not going to get better,” think, “I’ll give it one more try.”
Aerobic exercise reduces stress by increasing the body’s production of natural painkillers (endorphins). It also increases oxygen to the brain, which releases tension from muscles. Physical activity also provides a time out from stressful situations.
Laughter is an “inner upper,” Remos says. “People should allow themselves to experience moments of joy without feeling guilty.”
And don’t forget the power of friendships. Studies of people who remain happy and healthy despite many life stresses conclude that most have very good social support.
Activity overload is a source of stress in many people’s lives. Carve more personal time out of your busy life. Prioritize your activities and cut out low-priority ones and any that are not necessary, enjoyable or satisfying. The result: more time alone, or more time to do the things you really enjoy.
“You cannot eliminate all the stress in your life, but you can learn to deal with it actively and effectively,” Remos says. “Stop thinking of stress as something that just happens to you. Instead, take charge of your stress and turn it into a positive force in your life.”

Bookmark

The Key to Classic Beauty

Posted by: MIAMI Institute @ 9:05 am  — March 19, 2008

The Key to Classic Beauty

In classic facial aesthetics, perfect faces are often defined by almond shaped eyes, beautiful slim noses, high cheekbones, and sleek jaw-lines.  Of these elements, the nose plays a defining role.  This central feature of the face draws attention to a person’s appearance.  It defines the visage, and is considered the principal element to beauty.  There are many different types of noses, described mainly for the effect they have on the facial profile.  These various names exemplify the importance of this feature in facial appearance.
Overall symmetry of the face is one of the factors the brain uses to measure attractiveness.  The nose has a significant effect on the symmetrical nature of the face.  A well proportioned nose makes the face more appealing.  Crooked, overly large or malformed noses can diminish the aesthetic appearance of other classic facial elements and detract from the attractiveness of these features.  Correction of this single element can have a profound impact to facial beauty. 
Few people have the genetic quality of a perfect nose, and cosmetic nasal surgery, or rhinoplasty, can result in a significant improvement in facial appearance.  Making the nose straighter, smoother or changing size improves facial symmetry.  The perfect nose can be the key to classic facial beauty. 
Modifying the nose for effective facial improvement is the art of a nasal plastic surgeon.  These highly skilled artisans of cosmetic surgery specialize in changing the central feature of the face and creating a balanced, symmetrical appearance.  In addition to aesthetics, the expert in rhinoplasty is also able to improve function and correct damage caused by trauma to the nose and nasal passages.  The best practitioners are able to improve the look of even the most difficult cases and take into account the subtlety of the changes and the nature of the skin impacted.  Successful results are achieved when all of these factors are considered in determining the best course for nasal plastic surgery.

The objective of rhinoplasty is to leave the patient with a natural look without the appearance of surgical modification. 
Many doctors practice the method of endo-nasal surgery, performing modification from the inside of the nose and requiring no external incisions. 
This advanced technique helps to preserve tissue, ensuring improved aesthetics with a natural look to the nose.  When done properly, improving both function and aesthetics, rhinoplasty can rejuvenate the face for a lifetime.  

Robert L. Simons, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
Medical Board Chairman
DrSimons@MIAMI-Institute.com

Bookmark

Marriage Wisdom Through the Ages

Posted by: MIAMI Institute @ 8:49 am  — 

Marriage Wisdom Through the Ages

Be 100% committed to your marriage and family. Intend to be a role model for your children and teach them through example how to love honor and respect.

Be loyal, respectful, protective and supportive of your spouse. It fosters commitment and prevents feelings of rejection.

Value yourself! You cannot expect your spouse to “give you happiness or a sense of validation”. Have your own interests and develop your talents. Never let yourself go. Look your best as often as possible.

Always be on the same team, Camaraderie creates chemistry.

Communicate, compromise and always act with good intensions.  Confidence will give rise to a feeling of security.

Agree to disagree. Differences will present themselves. Conflicts should be negotiated. There does not need to be a winner or loser. Learn how to forgive and always move forward.

Preserve self-esteem by not being judgmental or abusive. Only destructive behavior can result from feelings of fear and rejection. Never embarrasses your spouse in public.

Pick you battles – acquire perspective. Being grounded in reality will protect you from falling prey to unrealistic expectations, anger and resentments.

Strive to make your spouse proud of you and your family, your home and the life you have built together. Make a date to update the family photo album and discuss each picture.

Share common interests and value quality time. Create opportunities to have fun and make each other laugh. Watch less television dance more.

Be devoted to having unhurried meals together, seek to make them a celebration, this is your time to connect: decorate, evaluate, plan and bond.

Show signs of affection. Kiss hello and good-bye. Hold hands. Never let a day go bye without a really good heartfelt hug. Flirt as often as possible. Schedule date nights, sex and plan surprises. Never use sex as a weapon.

Be Indispensable. Little things mean a lot.

As often as possible foster intimacy it’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Rhonda Fine PhD, ARNP
Diplomate of The American Academy of Clinical Sexologists
Board Certificated Clinical Sexologist
Psychotherapy, Wellness and Regenerative Medicine
(303) 624- 0009
DrFine@miami-institute.com

Bookmark

Interventions for Sexual Health

Posted by: MIAMI Institute @ 8:14 am  — 

Interventions for Sexual Health

Sex has long been the force that excites our bodies and touches our souls. It connects us mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. At a time when there is a demand for the highest quality of life possible, men and women of all ages are turning to medical professionals in order to maintain and restore their sexuality and vitality.

Sexual health is clearly an important health issue that has long been ignored. Sex dramatically optimizes our body’s functions. Sex boosts our immune system and supports our cardiovascular system Sex can releases us from physical and mental tension, stress and anxiety. It helps promote good sleep. Sex elevates mood, increases self-esteem, fosters intimacy and improves relationships. New research has shown sexual dysfunction to be heavily influenced by the balance or imbalance of hormones and neurotransmitters. This has lead to the development and availability of new treatments. A collaborative and through comprehensive approach to each individual patient has been dramatically effective relieving symptoms, maintaining health and restoring well being.

Sexuality is one of the most complex aspects of the human experience. A host of psychological and physical factors are almost always intertwined and can impact an individual’s sexuality. Solving a physical problem may only be half of the battle. If a sexual problem persists it often leads to anger, frustration, low self-esteem, emotional distance and blame, which in turn can damage a relationship.

Board Certificated Sex Therapists are qualified to treat the same broad range of issues that other therapists treat, however sex therapists have additional advanced training in addressing sexual concerns. Sex therapy can help an individual learn to appreciate and have control over issues which may be inhibiting their sexual motivation or performance. Understanding the root cause is often necessary for a successful resolution.

Sex Therapy is appropriate for individuals or couples that wish to improve their sexual functioning, enhance their sexuality and foster intimacy. They may be facing relationship issues, have mismatched sexual desires or are experiencing communication problems. They may simply have questions and are in need of information. Physical difficulties have a wide range of presentations, which includes a lack of desire as well as erection, ejaculation or difficulty with orgasm. Individuals under go transitions in life that affect their sexuality such as marriage, childbirth, separation, divorce or the death of a spouse. There are those who have concerns that revolve around their sexual identity and/or sexual orientation. Sadly, there are those individuals who have experienced a sexual trauma.

The goal of sex therapy is to help individuals learn more about their body and feel at ease with their sexuality as well as promoting intimacy across the life span.

Rhonda Fine PhD, ARNP
Diplomate of The American Academy of Clinical Sexologists
Board Certificated Clinical Sexologist
Psychotherapy, Wellness and Regenerative Medicine
(303) 624- 0009
DrFine@miami-institute.com

Bookmark

Prosthodontists: The Architect of a great smile.

Posted by: MIAMI Institute @ 11:15 am  — March 14, 2008

Download the original attachment

Prosthodontics is the dental science pertaining to diagnosis, treatment planning, rehabilitation and maintenance of oral function and appearance. It focuses on the health and aesthetics of patients with clinical conditions associated with missing or deficient teeth. It includes study and understanding of the orofacial complex, the biological system which provides the functions of mastication, swallowing, breathing and speech and incorporates the senses of smell, taste and vision.

Prosthodontics is one of the nine (9) dentistry specialties recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA). These specialties include dental public health, endodontics, oral pathology, oral radiology, oral and maxillofacial surgery, orthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, and lastly, prosthodontics. The specialty of prosthodontics requires advanced training for 3 years after obtaining a 4 year Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. The American College of Prosthodontists ensures standards are maintained in the field.

Board Certified Prosthodontists complete extensive examinations by the American Board of Prosthodontics. These involve both written and oral exams in prosthodontic theory and literature, the presentation of three different patient treatments documented from the beginning to the end of the treatment, and examinations over the rationale of this treatment. As a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, the prosthodontist must successfully complete a re-certification examination every eight years.

In addition to the general dentistry skills obtained with a DDS degree, Prosthodontists study head and neck anatomy, material science, aesthetics, and occlusion (bite). This supplementary knowledge is critical in treating complex cosmetic cases including full mouth reconstruction, joint problems, and congenital disorders.

“I love creating beautiful smiles and being able to give added confidence to my patients,” says Dr. Todd B. Barsky of The Miami Institute for Age Management and Intervention’s cosmetic dentistry team. “I like to see myself as the architect of a smile, where I can design an individualized treatment plan which will restore optimal function and appearance.”

Prosthodontists use their advanced training and skills to provide many services and procedures, including:

Crowns/Bridges – an artificial cover used to restore normal shape, size and appearance to teeth. Crowns make teeth stronger in addition to improving appearance. Crowns can be used to cover fillings or to increase the size of a tooth, or used to attach a bridge to or protect weak teeth. They can also be used to cover discolored or badly shaped teeth, or dental implants. Traditional crowns are made in a lab from an impression or mold of your teeth. New technology using CAD/CAM, computer aided design and manufacturing, allows permanent crowns to be made in the same visit, since the crown is milled by a computer.

Implants- are becoming the standard of care for replacing missing teeth. Implants are surgically placed and fused to the jawbone and serve as a base for individual replacement teeth, bridges or a denture. Implants offer stability because they fuse to the bone. Integration of the implants into the jaw also helps replacement teeth feel more natural. Some people also find the secure fit more comfortable than conventional substitutes.

Veneers – thin, custom made and colored shells which cover the front side of the teeth. Veneers can be used to treat spaces between teeth, chips or worn areas, poorly shaped or crooked teeth, or permanently stained teeth.

Mouth Rehabilitation – also referred to as reconstruction, is individual recreation of each tooth in the mouth. This is generally considered for people with severely worn, broken, or extensively restored teeth.

Teeth Whitening – or bleaching, whitens teeth that are discolored or stained. Typical procedures use chemicals, primarily peroxide, either in the dentist’s office or in home-use kits. Laser teeth whitening is an option which speeds the effect of in-office peroxide bleaching agents.

Bonding – improves the appearance of chipped, broken, cracked or stained teeth. Bonding uses materials which match the teeth to fill in the surface and create a smooth, even look. Bonding can even be used to fill in spaces between the teeth.

Enamel shaping – a process often combined with bonding, involves modifying the enamel of the teeth to improve appearance.

Sleep Apnea – characterized by episodes of stopped breathing during sleep. Symptoms of this condition are noted as simple snoring and can be improved through use of a dental prostheses, which, when inserted into the mouth at night, keeps the jaw forward. This helps bring the tongue forward, enlarging the air opening and reducing the resultant snoring.

“Being able to restore a patient’s mouth after years of abuse with full mouth rehabilitation is one of the most rewarding parts of being a prosthodontist,” says Dr. Barsky. “The first step is to ensure that we have a healthy foundation from which to create and build new restorations.” The Miami Institutes’ philosophy for cosmetic dentistry incorporates internal health and nutrition as part of the basis for anti-aging associated with the orofacial complex. Maintaining and retaining your teeth with proper care and diet is critical. “Even though implants have dramatically changed the way we do dentistry today, the best dental implant is still a natural tooth.”

Dr. Barsky has a unique philosophy for patient care which compliments his expert skills. Listening to a patient’s desires and expectations is the key to successful results. The goal of a comprehensive exam is to design a successful plan to achieve optimum oral health and aesthetics. Forging a partnership with every patient starts with mutual trust and respect, and is essential to effective treatment. As a board certified prosthodontist, Dr. Barsky holds himself to the highest standards of cosmetic dentistry.

Experience has provided important lessons in patient care. Every patient has a unique smile and a specific set of requirements and expectations. The prosthodontist’s job is to listen carefully and consider these inputs in determining practicable and personalized treatment plans.

As a trained prosthodontist, Dr. Barsky focuses on the orofacial complex in his initial comprehensive examination. He first looks at the face, lips, muscles and joints (TMJ), then at the mouth, examining the glands, tongue and gums, and finally the teeth. A stable foundation is a requirement for long lasting and beautiful results. Dr. Barsky consults with doctors from The Miami Institute’s medical team to provide internal health and nutrition advice, as well as facial and cosmetic plastic surgery. This unique combination of services allows Dr. Barsky to address multiple aspects of the aging process as reflected in oral health and aesthetics, from diet designed to prevent tooth decay to lip enhancements to boost a smile.

Treatment facilities are also important for effective patient care. The dental suite of The Miami Institute provides a serene and relaxing environment, and patients are assured maximum privacy. The personal needs of a patient are met with relaxation options including movies, TV, music and sedation, if required. All these components combined help to ensure full patient satisfaction and long lasting results.

An example of the unique capabilities prosthodontists have acquired from rigorous training and experience is in complex conditions such as full mouth rehabilitation necessitated by temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). Many of these patients have bites which have collapsed, and as a result the lower half of the face is impacted. A key sign of this is when the corners of the mouth point downward, resulting in a frowning look which ages the individual. By examining the TMJ, the muscles of mastication, and teeth, the skilled prosthodontist uses multiple inputs to define the most effective tooth treatment. The results are long lasting, providing optimal oral function as well as improving the look of the lower face and mouth and making the patient appear younger.

Another example is in the case of dental implants. Often there is a need for single tooth replacement to restore function and appearance. For implants, lip length, bone height and width, as well as bone quality must all be considered in the treatment planning process. The extensive training and experience of the prosthodontist allows for proper diagnosis and treatment planning which achieves optimum aesthetic results.

Today’s cosmetic dentists have more tools than ever to provide quality dental care. The expert skills in advanced diagnosis and procedures developed through three years of additional training make the prosthodontist the best choice for treatment of the orofacial complex. Each individual wants specialized treatment plans designed to provide full oral function and beautiful appearance. Prosthodontists are the architects of the smile, able to deliver beautiful and long lasting results.

Bookmark
Pages: 1 2 Next