Blog | Boulder Dentist | Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

What To Know Now About Oral Cancer

April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month. Contrary to what many people believe, oral cancer is not one singular kind of cancer. Instead, oral cancer refers to any of the cancers that develop on your lips, cheeks, mouth, sinuses, or throat. Like most other cancers, your cells mutate and fail to follow their instructions; instead, they grow and divide uncontrollably. Also, as with most cancers, the exact causes are unknown, some significant risk factors have been identified, and early detection is crucial to successful treatment.

4 Biggest Risk Factors for Developing Oral Cancer

The four most significant risk factors that increase your risk of oral cancer are:

Tobacco Use: Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and chewing tobacco all significantly increase the risk of oral cancer.
Heavy Alcohol Use: While an occasional drink is insignificant, heavy alcohol consumption is another major oral cancer risk factor.
HPV: Certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV) increase the risk of oral cancer.
Sun Exposure: Regular exposure to sunlight, especially on your lips, can increase oral cancer risk.

Early Signs of Oral Cancer

What signs should you be looking out for? A few early signs that you should be checked out include:

Sores on your lips or mouth that don’t heal after two weeks
Bleeding in your mouth that you can’t explain
Numbness or pain inside your mouth or on your tongue
A lump or thickening in your cheek
White or red patches inside your mouth, on your gums, tongue, or tonsils
A persistent feeling like you’ve got something caught in your throat

Because time is of the essence in cancer treatment, do not delay getting examined if you notice any of these symptoms. Additionally, having dental exams twice a year is a good way to screen for early signs of oral cancer. Your dentist can examine your face and mouth for any symptoms and recommend further evaluation if they feel it is warranted.

Oral Cancer Treatments

Every cancer has its own treatment plan, depending on the patient’s stage, size, location, and health. With oral cancers, the typical treatments include removing the cancerous cells, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

Oral Cancer Prevention

You can reduce your risks by avoiding tobacco products, reducing alcohol consumption, protecting your lips, and avoiding HPV infection through vaccination. Furthermore, you should learn about oral cancer and its various forms to better understand how it may develop or appear. Knowing your own individual risk factors is an important step toward prevention.

Additional Resources

Schedule a Dental Wellness Visit to Screen for Oral Cancer and Other Issues

Dr. Ania Mohelicki is passionate about promoting well-being in every aspect of her practice. You can contact our office in Boulder, CO, at 303-443-0998 or contact us here to schedule an appointment.

As a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Academy of General Dentistry, International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology ( IAOMT ), and several other prestigious organizations, Dr. Mohelicki is a highly experienced professional who can help you prioritize your oral health with a personalized treatment plan.

Posted: April 15, 2024 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

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

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: content.team

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: content.team

New Year, New Smile!

blonde woman in white silky bathrobe smiling With the turn of the calendar, it’s a brand-new year–and time to think about what you’d like to change or improve in 2023. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO, help patients achieve beautiful, healthy smiles, and if you struggle with imperfections of the teeth and gums, you may be a great candidate for cosmetic dentistry. With the help of our dental professionals, you can rejuvenate or completely change your smile with cosmetic procedures.

What Are Some Cosmetic Dental Procedures Used to Enhance the Smile?

When considering aesthetic dental work with Dr. Ania Mohelicki, patients have a wide range of solutions to choose from. Below are just a few of the more popular cosmetic procedures requested by our professionals to transform the smile:

Porcelain veneers. These thin, shell-like coverings are custom-made and bonded to the front of teeth. They provide a beautiful, natural-looking appearance that lasts for years.
Composite bonding. This is a procedure where Dr. Ania Mohelicki applies tooth-colored resin to the surface of your teeth to improve their color and shape. The material can also be used in place of old metal fillings for a more seamless look.
Invisalign™ orthodontics. Straightening the smile is easy with Invisalign™, a clear tray aligner system that repositions the smile without metal brackets and wires.
Cosmetic injections. With Botox™ injections or dermal fillers, patients can address fine lines and folds around the mouth and throughout the face, further improving their overall appearance while turning back the hands of time!
Dental crowns. Patients with damaged teeth may want to cover and protect these teeth with dental crowns. Crowns are porcelain “caps” that cover a natural tooth structure and can improve the appearance and function of a single tooth.

Ready To Rejuvenate Your Smile in 2023?

Call Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team of professionals to learn more about cosmetic dental procedures used to make subtle or dramatic changes to the smile. Call 303-872-9940 to request your consultation visit at her office, serving patients in and around the community of Boulder, CO. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile this year!

Posted: January 15, 2023 By: content.team

How long can I go without visiting the dentist?

Man showing thumbs up and smiling sitting on the dental chair You probably know that you should see the dentist regularly to maintain a healthy smile. But why? What happens if you don’t maintain your routine evaluations and cleanings with Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO? Let’s talk more about conditions that can impact the smile and how often you should make an appointment with your dentist.

What are some conditions that can worsen if I don’t see my dentist regularly?

There are a variety of oral health problems that can develop if you are not seeing your dentist on a regular basis or caring for your smile. This includes:

Cavities. Tooth decay is the most common dental problem seen when you are not taking care of your teeth and gums with everyday brushing and flossing. Finding cavities with the help of a dentist in the earliest stages is the best way to ensure they do not worsen or become more serious.
Periodontal disease. Also known as gum disease, periodontal disease causes an infection in the mouth that starts with the gums. Bleeding, swollen, and red gums are an indication that this condition has started, and problems such as gum recession, loose teeth, and lost bone can occur.
Tooth loss. When the smile is not properly cared for, it can result in tooth loss. This is often due to jawbone loss with severe periodontitis that causes the teeth to lose their foundation. Tooth loss may also occur with the removal of teeth that are badly damaged by severe tooth decay.

How often should I see my dentist?

It’s important to see your dentist routinely, at least once every six months. This way, your dentist can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and catch any problems early on. If you have a medical history of dental problems, or if you’re at high risk for them, you may need to see your dentist more often.

Schedule a visit with our team today!

If it’s been a while since you’ve seen a dentist, or if you’re experiencing pain or other issues with your natural teeth or gum tissues, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO. Call 303-872-9940 to request a visit and find out more about caring for your smile and maintaining healthy teeth and gums!

Posted: November 15, 2022 By: content.team

What is the Chao pinhole surgery technique used for?

Gum contouring, also referred to by our dentists as gum reshaping, is a cosmetic dental procedure that can improve the appearance of your smile. Gum contouring aims to remove excess gum tissue or to even out the gum line. This can be done for aesthetic reasons or to improve oral health. Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO, is pleased to offer this special technique to help make gum grafting or recontouring a less invasive procedure than it once was.

What is the Chao pinhole surgical technique?

Chao pinhole surgery is one method of gum contouring. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that does not require cuts or stitches. Instead, Dr. Ania Mohelicki makes a small hole in the gums and uses special instruments to adjust the gum tissue. This method can be used to treat a variety of issues, including:

uneven gum lines
excess gum tissue
receding gums

Who is a good candidate for Chao pinhole surgery?

Most people who are unhappy with the appearance of their gums are good candidates for gum contouring surgery. If you have healthy gums and enough bone supporting your teeth, you may be a candidate for this minimally invasive procedure. Dr. Ania Mohelicki will work with you to determine if you are a good candidate for the Chao pinhole surgical technique during your consultation appointment. This is necessary before moving forward and booking your surgical visit.

What are some of the advantages of undergoing Chao pinhole surgery?

One of the primary benefits of Chao pinhole surgery is that it is a relatively quick and easy procedure. Recovery time is also shorter than with traditional gum contouring methods. There is less pain and swelling associated with Chao pinhole surgery, and patients can typically resume normal activities within a day or two.

Please request an appointment with our team to learn more about this and other restorative procedures available

If you are considering gum contouring, speak to Dr. Ania Mohelicki about whether Chao pinhole surgery is right for you. Call 303-872-9940 to request an appointment at her Boulder, CO, area practice and discuss your options.

Posted: September 15, 2022 By: content.team

shirtless man holding dental floss and smiling

Habits that you may be doing that can damage your teeth

Did you know brushing and flossing alone can’t maintain oral health and wellness? Along with regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and evaluations, there are some habits you may have that may also be impacting your oral health. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO, can talk to you and your family about certain habits that can affect the teeth.

How am I damaging my teeth?

You might not realize it, but there are some habits that you do on a daily basis that can actually damage your teeth. Here are just a few of them:

Brushing too hard: You might think that brushing harder will clean your teeth better, but in reality, it can actually damage your tooth enamel and make your teeth more susceptible to cavities. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle strokes instead.
Chewing on ice: This one might seem like a no-brainer, but chewing on hard objects can crack or chip your teeth. If you must chew on something, look for sugar-free gum instead.
Eating acidic and sugary foods: Foods and drinks with high acidity levels can erode your tooth enamel, making your teeth more sensitive and susceptible to cavities. Sugary foods feed the bacteria in your mouth, which can also lead to cavities.
Grinding your teeth: This is a bad habit that many people are not even aware they do but grinding or clenching your teeth can put a lot of unnecessary stress on them and lead to chips or cracks. If you think you might be a grinder, talk to your dentist about getting a mouth guard.
Biting your nails: Not only can nail-biting contribute to jaw dysfunction, but it can also cause bacteria along the cuticles and cause common problems like ingrown nails. Nail biting can also cause chips in the teeth and wear them down.

Request an appointment with Dr. Ania Mohelicki today!

If you’re guilty of any of the above habits, don’t worry – it’s never too late to change! Be sure to see your dentist on a regular basis so they can keep an eye on the health of your smile. If you live in the community of Boulder, CO, and would like to speak to Dr. Ania Mohelicki about your oral health and wellness, call 303-872-9940. Request an appointment with our skilled and experienced dental provider to learn more about caring for the teeth and gums for a lifetime of beautiful and healthy smiles!

Posted: August 15, 2022 By: content.team

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