Blog | Boulder Dentist | Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

You May Be Surprised How Your Gums Affect Your Health

When you think about oral health, teeth likely spring to mind. But what about your gums? These are so much more than just the tissue supporting your teeth. They are vital to your oral health and overall wellbeing. In fact, gum health supports your entire immune system!

The benefits of periodontal care can’t be understated; at Dr. Ania Mohelicki’s practice, each patient’s total health and wellness are placed at the center of their care. As you explore your own oral health, consider the surprising ways that gums can affect your health.

Gums Protect You From Bacteria

The gums are a protective tissue that prevent bacteria from entering your bloodstream; without them, bacteria in both your mouth and that you ingest would be able to easily reach your blood vessels, tissues, and internal organs.

By nourishing your gums through proper dental hygiene and routine cleanings, you can avoid putting your health at risk.

Periodontal Disease Can Affect Your Heart

Research has found that people who have periodontal disease are also at an increased risk of developing hardened arteries. These are the pathways in the heart that pump blood in and out of the chambers, allowing nutrients and oxygen to reach all your muscles, tissues, cells, and organs.

When fat and cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it can harden and cause blockages that obstruct blood flow. This makes the passageway narrower, preventing blood from entering or exiting the heart properly.

By taking good care of your gum health, you can lower your risk of heart disease. This is especially important if you carry other risk factors, like a family history of cardiovascular conditions or smoking.

Give Your Gums the Best With Dr. Ania

Dr. Ania Mohelicki is dedicated to offering the best dental care to every patient at her practice.

She has been practicing since 1994 and belongs to multiple esteemed organizations, including the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology.

With Dr. Ania, you can enjoy an incredibly relaxing dental experience that includes warm hand towels, moving watching, and music. To schedule an appointment for you or your child, please contact the office in Bounder, CO, at 303-872-9940.

Posted: November 15, 2023 By: content.team

The Benefits of Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers offer a range of benefits that have made them a popular cosmetic dental treatment for individuals looking to enhance the appearance of their teeth. These thin, custom-made shells of porcelain are designed to cover the front surface of teeth and provide a natural and aesthetically pleasing result.

Improved Aesthetics

One of the benefits of porcelain veneers is their ability to change the appearance of your smile. They can effectively correct various cosmetic issues such as discolored, stained, or yellowed teeth. Veneers can also address gaps between teeth, minor misalignments, and uneven or worn tooth surfaces, resulting in a more symmetrical and attractive smile.

Natural Appearance

Porcelain veneers are renowned for their natural-looking appearance. The material used closely resembles the translucency and texture of natural tooth enamel. This ensures that when the veneers are properly designed and applied by a skilled dentist, they blend seamlessly with your existing teeth, making it difficult for others to distinguish between veneered and natural teeth.

Stain Resistance

Porcelain is resistant to stains and discoloration. Unlike natural teeth, which can become discolored over time due to factors like coffee, tea, and smoking, porcelain veneers maintain their brightness and whiteness for many years. This stain-resistant quality allows you to enjoy a long-lasting, vibrant smile.

Minimally Invasive

Compared to some other dental treatments, the application of porcelain veneers is relatively minimally invasive. The process typically involves minimal removal of tooth enamel, preserving the majority of your natural tooth structure. This means less discomfort and a quicker recovery time for patients.

Durable

Porcelain veneers are remarkably durable and can last for many years with proper care. They are resistant to chipping and cracking, making them a long-term solution for improving your smile. Routine dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices can help extend the lifespan of your veneers.

Make an Appointment Today

Porcelain veneers offer many benefits that make them a great option if you’re looking to enhance the appearance of your teeth. Porcelain veneers have become a popular choice for achieving a radiant and confident smile. If veneers are something you’re thinking about, contact the office of Ania Mohelicki, DDS, located in Boulder, CO. Call 303-872-9940 to make an appointment today.

Posted: October 15, 2023 By: content.team

How the MicrO2™ Can Treat Your Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea Treatment in Colorado Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder with various negative effects if left untreated, including increased risk of stroke to potentially fatal outcomes.

If you’ve been recently diagnosed or if you’ve been suffering from excessive fatigue, regardless of how much sleep you get, it’s time to address your obstructive sleep apnea. Here’s what you need to know about the MicrO2™ and how it can help you.

Do You Need Surgery To Treat Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is caused by an obstruction somewhere along your airway passages. Because of the many ways your airways may be obstructed, there are several surgeries you may undergo, from nasal surgeries that remove or shrink the blockages to an uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which removes part of the palate, tonsils, and uvula.

However, surgery can have complications and variable degrees of success. Studies show a range of surgical success with sleep apnea, ranging from around 50 percent to 83 percent, depending on the surgery and the area of focus.

When it comes to sleep apnea, surgery is not the typical first option. Usually, non-surgical interventions are.

The Non-Surgical Sleep Apnea Treatment: MicrO2

Some obstructions that lead to sleep apnea are caused by your tongue and throat tissues collapsing into your airways. The MicrO2 is custom designed to fit your mouth, offering personalized precision that prevents obstruction and keeps you breathing clearly and sleeping soundly.

Treat Sleep Apnea in Boulder, CO

Sleep apnea can have disastrous effects on your life and health. Don’t delay in finding treatment. Working with a dedicated dentist and oral health team is the ideal way to ensure positive results.

Dr. Ania Mohelicki has been dedicated to serving the people of Boulder, CO, and surrounding areas and bringing them a comfortable, results-driven dental and oral healthcare experience.

Working with Dr. Mohelicki gives you access to impeccable expertise and ability. Dr. Mohelicki is part of numerous organizations, such as the American Dental Association, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology.

Allow Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team to help treat your sleep apnea. Call 303-872-9940 to schedule an appointment today.

Posted: September 15, 2023 By: content.team

When Is the Best Time To Get Dental Implants?

Timing is a critical factor when considering dental implants. While the ideal time can vary depending on individual circumstances, there are some general guidelines to help determine the best time for getting dental implants:

Dental Health

It is essential to have good oral health before undergoing dental implant surgery. Any existing dental issues, such as cavities or gum disease, should be addressed and treated beforehand to ensure a successful implant procedure.

Bone Density

Sufficient bone density in the jaw is crucial for the success of dental implants. If a patient lacks enough bone in the jaw, a bone graft may be necessary before implant placement, which could add time to the overall treatment process.

Healing Time

Dental implant surgery involves a healing period during which the implants integrate with the jawbone (osseointegration). This process usually takes a few months, and it is important to consider this timeframe when planning for dental implants.

Personal Health

Patients with certain medical conditions or undergoing treatments that affect the immune system or bone health may need to postpone dental implant surgery until they are in better health.

Age

Age itself is not a determining factor for dental implants, but older patients may need to consider factors like bone density and overall health when deciding on the right time for the procedure.

Dental Evaluation

Consultation with a qualified dentist or oral surgeon is crucial to assess individual circumstances and determine the best timing for dental implant placement.

Avoiding Delays

While timing is important, it’s also crucial not to delay the procedure unnecessarily. Missing teeth can lead to bone loss and further dental issues, so getting dental implants promptly after tooth loss is often beneficial.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Ultimately, the best time to get dental implants is when your oral health is stable, any pre-existing dental problems are resolved, and there is sufficient bone density to support the implants. A personalized treatment plan and consultation with a dental professional such as Dr. Ania Mohelicki will help determine the most appropriate timing for dental implant surgery. Schedule an appointment today or call (303) -872-9940.

Posted: August 15, 2023 By: content.team

Signs That Mean Your Child Could Need Orthodontics

Taking care of your child’s health is a demanding job as a parent. It is easy to overlook or forget how important oral health is to a child’s development. Thankfully, orthodontics can help restore and guide your child’s teeth toward oral success. However, it can be difficult to know if your child needs orthodontics. Here are some common signs that mean your child may need orthodontics.

Protruding Teeth

Protruding teeth are when your child’s teeth are turned slightly outward toward their lips. Protruding teeth appear clustered and often cause an overbite. This means your child’s teeth are likely permanently deformed unless orthodontics is used to correct them. If your child has protruding teeth, it is recommended they see a dentist.

Speech Impediments

A speech impediment is when you are unable to say certain words or syllables in the correct way. This is often because of some form of physical limitation. The structure of your teeth can drastically affect your speech. It is possible that your child’s speech impediment may be caused by their teeth and could be corrected with orthodontics.

Crowded Teeth

Similar to protruding teeth, crowded teeth are clustered together. However, crowded teeth are often crooked and overlap each other. This can cause difficulty eating, talking, and can affect a person’s confidence. Thankfully, orthodontics can assist in correcting crowded teeth.

Late or Early Tooth Loss

Children’s teeth fall out as they age. However, premature or late tooth loss can cause dental issues and different sizes of teeth trying to grow in. This can cause issues with bite, teeth crowding, protruding teeth, crooked teeth, and more. Children begin to lose teeth around age five and should have lost all teeth by age 13. If your child doesn’t fit within that range, it’s recommended that you take them to the dentist to see if orthodontics may be for them.

Orthodontics By Dr. Ania

Your teeth are more than just aesthetically pleasing; they are tools that are essential for your oral health. That’s why Dr. Ania Mohelicki provides orthodontic services for children and adults. Dr. Ania has been in practice for over two decades and brings expertise to every procedure. If your child is showing signs of needing orthodontics, contact Dr. Ania’s office at 303-729-3595 today.

Posted: July 15, 2023 By: henley.tabal

Common Symptoms of TMD

Are you having jaw pain that seems to never go away? You may have heard of TMD or TMJ and started to wonder, “Is that what’s going on?’” TMD, also commonly known as TMJ, stands for temporomandibular disorder. The temporomandibular joint is the source of symptoms and pain for people suffering from TMD. Let’s take a look at some of the common symptoms and signs of TMD, so you know when it’s time to seek TMD treatment.

What Is TMD?

TMD is when the temporomandibular joint becomes irritated or inflamed. The TMJ connects your lower jaw to the skull and can get irritated from an improper bite, arthritis, and physical trauma. TMD affects muscles around the jaw and can be very painful. TMD lasts anywhere from days to months and can be recurring depending on the root cause.

Signs and Symptoms of TMD

Jaw Pain

Jaw pain is the most common symptom of TMJ and is one of the most debilitating. Pain can come from the joint itself or from tight muscles around the jaw. The pain can feel like aching, burning, tightness, or even sharp pain.

Teeth Problems

Teeth issues are a common sign and cause of TMD. Tightened muscles and grinding can lead to damaged and sore teeth.

Issues With Sleeping

The pain, tightness, and grinding of teeth can, unfortunately, lead to issues with sleep. These problems can make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep.

Headaches

Muscle tightness, grinding, and excessive jaw movement can lead to headaches caused by TMD. The headaches can be similar to other tension headaches. This makes TMD headaches hard to identify without other symptoms present.

Seeking Treatment

Many of the things that cause TMD actually stem from your teeth. That’s why Dr. Ania Mohelicki, DDS, provides services to help alleviate TMD and its symptoms. Dr. Ania understands that TMD is a complex issue and will develop a treatment plan for your situation. Dr. Ania and her team make it their mission to provide you with quick, comfortable, and effective treatments for your TMD. Let Dr. Ania’s results speak for themselves, and contact her office at (303) 443-0998 today.

Posted: June 15, 2023 By: content.team

How to Incredibly Improve Your Sleep Apnea

Do you realize how much of an effect inadequate sleep can have on your health? Sleep Apnea can lead to many life-altering conditions, such as high blood pressure, anxiety, diabetes, and an elevated risk of a stroke.

From diabetes to liver problems, It’s essential to understand the many risks of sleep apnea, and how to tell if you are a sufferer so you can find out the best solution to improve your sleep apnea.

How to Tell If You Have Sleep Apnea

If you suffer from sleep apnea, there are many common symptoms and signs, including,

Loud snoring
Periods where you don’t breathe while sleeping
Trying to catch your breath while you sleep
Waking up with a dry mouth
Waking up with a headache
Trouble staying asleep
Feeling extra tired during the day
Having trouble paying attention throughout the day
Feeling irritable

What are the Risks of Sleep Apnea

If you have sleep apnea, it should be taken very seriously as it can cause many risks, including,

Metabolic Syndrome
Complications with medicines or surgeries
High blood pressure
Heart problems
Type 2 Diabetes
Liver problems

What Can You Do to Improve Sleep Apnea

If you suffer from sleep apnea, you can worry less, knowing that there are options for you to improve your quality of sleep. Dr. Ania Mohelicki offers the Micro O2 to enhance your nighttime snoring and reduce your Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This service is provided for adults, and it works by keeping your lower jaw pushed forward while you sleep to avoid the collapse of your airway from the tongue and throat tissues.

Micro O2 is great for sleep apnea patients because it is easy to use, smaller than the average bulky CPAP machines, comfortable, easy to adjust, and designed by sleep medicine experts.

Ready to Finally Treat Your Sleep Apnea?

Dr. Ania Mohelicki is an experienced family and cosmetic dentist in the Boulder, CO, area. To find out how you can improve your sleep apnea or for more information on the MicroO2 sleep machine, call 303-872-9940 to schedule an appointment.

Posted: May 15, 2023 By: content.team

Dental Retainers vs Orthodontic Treatments

Asian woman smiling and wearing an orthodontic retainers. A straighter smile is a common goal for many patients who visit the office of Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO. Orthodontic treatment is a reliable method of realigning the teeth. However, some patients might confuse orthodontic treatment with dental retainers. Understanding the goal of each treatment is the most effective way of learning the difference between the two and getting a better view of which treatment is best for you!

What Are the Differences Between Orthodontic Treatment and Dental Retainers?

Dental retainers and orthodontic treatments have some similarities, but there are also several differences between them.

Let’s dive in and look at the ways in which they are used to better understand their purposes:

Orthodontic treatments. Orthodontic treatment focuses on straightening teeth through the use of braces or other appliances. Orthodontic treatment seeks to correct problems such as crooked teeth, overbites and underbites, and misaligned jaws. Treatment usually takes several months to a few years and involves periodic adjustments by an orthodontist.
Dental retainers. On the other hand, dental retainers provide support for the teeth in order to keep them from shifting after orthodontic treatment is completed. Retainers are custom-made devices that fit snugly against the teeth and help reduce tooth movement. Depending on your needs, retainers can be removable, fixed to the teeth, or a combination of both. Retainers must be worn for an extended period of time and may need to be adjusted periodically.

Overall, orthodontic treatment focuses on correcting misalignment of the teeth, while dental retainers are used to maintain the desired results after treatment is completed. Both treatments require regular visits with an orthodontist or a skilled dental provider to achieve optimal results.

Schedule an Appointment To Learn More About Straightening Your Smile

If you live in the Boulder, CO, area and want to speak to a professional about the benefits of orthodontic treatment or dental retainers, Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team can assist. She has years of experience providing general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry for patients both in and around her community and is open to new patients. Call 303-872-9940 to book an appointment at her dental office.

Posted: April 15, 2023 By: henley.tabal

How Can My Dentist Help Me With Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Sleep Apnea Oxygen Mask and CPAP Machine If you feel as though you are not getting enough sleep every night, even if you’re spending sufficient time in bed, you may be unaware that you are competing against a condition known as obstructive sleep apnea. This sleep disorder, sometimes referred to as OSA, can cause you to cease breathing hundreds of times in one night. This results in insufficient rest to feel energized and focused the following day. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO, can help you find a reliable and comfortable solution to OSA with sleep apnea dental appliances.

What Is Used To Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Sleep-disordered Breathing?

Most patients who get a diagnosis of OSA will often be told by their primary care physician to use a device called a CPAP machine. This machine is used to keep the airways open throughout the night. However, the mask and machine could be more convenient and comfortable for many individuals, resulting in better treatment compliance. Instead, Dr. Ania Mohelicki may suggest the use of a dental appliance.

How Dental Appliances Work for Treating OSA

Dental appliances are specialized oral devices that fit over the teeth and keep them slightly separated. This creates more space in the airways, so they don’t collapse while sleeping, allowing for better oxygen intake throughout the night. Unlike CPAP machines, dental appliances are small, lightweight, and more comfortable to wear.

Benefits of Using Dental Appliances for OSA

When worn every night during sleep, patients can expect to see improved symptoms as soon as the first week of use. Common benefits include:

Improved energy levels throughout the day
Improved mental clarity and focus
Reduced snoring
Fewer episodes of daytime sleepiness and fatigue

Am I a Good Candidate for Oral Appliance Therapy?

If you struggle with using a CPAP machine and are looking for an alternative treatment for OSA or other sleep-disordered breathing conditions, connect with Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO to discuss whether or not you are a proper candidate for oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea. Her office can be reached by calling 303-872-9940 to request a visit.

Posted: March 15, 2023 By: abhisake.jain

How To Address the Symptoms of TMJ/TMD

TMJ letters surrounded by human skull with lower jaw At the practice of Dr. Ania Mohelicki, new and current patients of her Boulder, CO, area office will find that she provides a wide range of services for individuals who have oral health concerns. One condition that might be overlooked is that of TMJ/TMD. This condition is present in millions of Americans and has distinct symptoms that make it easy to diagnose and treat.

What Is TMJ/TMD?

TMJ/TMD stands for temporomandibular joint and muscle disorder. It is a condition that affects the jaw, muscles, and ligaments in the head and neck region that control chewing and speaking.

What Are the Symptoms of TMJ/TMD?

Symptoms of TMJ/TMD can vary from mild to severe and may include:

Pain or tenderness when moving the jaw
Difficulty opening or closing the mouth fully
Clicking and/or popping sounds in the jaw joint while talking or eating
Headaches and migraines
Earaches
Limited ability to open the mouth wide (trismus or “lock jaw”)
Fatigue in facial muscles after eating or talking
Problems with hearing or balance

How Can I Address the Symptoms Of TMJ/TMD?

Treatment options for TMJ/TMD depend on the severity of symptoms but may include the following:

Physical therapy
Medications such as anti-inflammatories
Specialized TMJ/TMD oral appliances
Surgery

Which Treatment Is Right for Me?

A diagnosis of TMJ/TMD is the first step in learning more about your condition and the best course of treatment for your needs. Dr. Ania Mohelicki will always start with the most conservative treatment option before moving up to more invasive procedures such as surgery. Some patients can benefit from using a special oral appliance at night to realign the jaw and reduce symptoms that may impact their daily quality of life.

How Do I Find Out More About TMJ/TMD and Get a Proper Diagnosis?

To obtain the right treatment for your condition, you need to first get a definitive diagnosis from your primary doctor or from Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO. With a proper diagnosis, you can then discuss the severity of your condition and decide on the best course of treatment to alleviate your symptoms. Call 303-872-9940 to request an appointment with our provider to talk about your oral health.

Posted: February 14, 2023 By: abhisake.jain

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