Blog | Boulder Dentist | Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

How to Recognize the Early Signs of TMJ Disorder

If you’re experiencing jaw discomfort or other unusual symptoms, it might be due to a TMJ disorder. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, which is the part that connects your jaw to your skull.

Recognizing the early signs of TMJ disorders can help you get the treatment you need before the problem worsens and affects your quality of life. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for, and reach out to your dentist for diagnosis.

Common Symptoms of TMJ Disorder

TMJ disorders have many different symptoms. Here are some common ones to look out for:

Jaw Pain or Tenderness: If you notice pain or tenderness around your jaw joint or the muscles that control your jaw, this might be a sign of a TMJ disorder.

Clicking or Popping Sounds: Sounds when you open or close your mouth, such as clicking or popping, can indicate TMJ issues.

Difficulty Moving the Jaw: Trouble opening or closing your mouth or feeling like your jaw is “locked” may relate to TMJ.

Headaches: Frequent headaches, especially those that seem to come from the jaw area, can sometimes link to TMJ disorders.

Ear Pain or Ringing: TMJ disorders can sometimes cause ear pain. You might also feel a ringing sensation in your ear. This happens even though the problem isn’t actually in your ear.

Causes of TMJ Disorders

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) works like a hinge with sliding motions. The cartilage covers the bones in this joint and a small cushion (or disk) keeps the movement smooth.

Painful TMJ disorders can happen if:

The cushion wears out or shifts out of place
Arthritis damages the cartilage in the joint
An injury or impact harms the joint

Sometimes, the exact cause of TMJ disorders isn’t clear.

What to Do if You Have Symptoms

If you recognize any of these signs of TMJ disorder, it’s a good idea to see a dental professional. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate your symptoms.

Schedule a TMJ Consultation in Boulder, CO

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a TMJ disorder, don’t wait to get help. Dr. Ania Mohelicki, DDS, can provide a thorough examination to determine if you have TMJ issues and discuss potential treatment options.

Contact us today at 303-443-0998 to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.

Posted: July 15, 2024 By: content.team

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 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

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

Why are routine dental cleanings important?

Dentist exam of young teen girl teeth. Professional dental cleanings are just one part of good oral health and wellness. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team often hear patients ask, “why are these routine cleanings important?” She can help you understand why prophylaxis, or professional cleanings, are essential to keeping the smile healthy for life!

Why are professional dental cleanings important?

Professional dental cleanings are important for several reasons.

Plaque and tartar removal. During professional cleanings, the dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar that can build up on teeth over time. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque. If plaque and tartar are not removed, they can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Preventative measures. Second, professional dental cleanings can help to prevent these problems from developing in the first place. By removing plaque and tartar, professional dental cleanings make it harder for these substances to damage teeth and gums.
Early detection of common dental conditions. With professional cleanings and evaluations, our dental team can help in detecting possible problems early on. Our dental professionals can spot potential issues, such as cavities or gum disease, during cleaning and recommend treatment before the problem gets worse.
Reducing stains. Over time, coffee, tea, and other dark-colored beverages can stain teeth. Professional dental cleanings can help to restore teeth to their natural color.
Fresher breath. Finally, professional dental cleanings can help to freshen your breath. Plaque and tartar can cause bad breath, but by removing these substances from teeth, professional dental cleanings can help improve a person’s breath.

How often should I visit the dentist for cleanings and evaluations?

The American Dental Association has always recommended that patients of all ages visit the dentist at least twice a year or every six months. If problems arise between appointments, such as pain or bleeding, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to investigate the problem and provide treatment.

How do I set up a dental cleaning?

If you reside in the Boulder, CO area and are ready to work with a dentist in your community that can provide a thorough cleaning and extensive evaluation for better oral health and wellness, we encourage you to call our office at 303-872-9940. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team are here to help!

Posted: July 15, 2022 By: content.team

photo of smiling woman wearing eyeglasses

How the simple act of smiling can improve your mood and self-confidence

Smiling is one of the simplest things that you can do to improve your mood and self-confidence. In fact, it’s been shown that the simple act of smiling can boost your mood and make you feel happier. It’s also been shown to increase self-esteem. If you’re feeling down or don’t feel very confident in yourself, try smiling for a few minutes and see how you feel afterwards. You may be surprised at just how good it makes you feel!

How smiling boosts your mood

There are a few reasons why smiling can naturally and immediately boost your mood. For one, when you smile, it releases endorphins. These are hormones naturally present in the body that make you feel good. Smiling also helps to change the way that you perceive yourself and the world around you. It can help to put things in perspective and make you feel more positive.

How smiling increases self-confidence

Smiling also has a positive effect on self-confidence. When you smile, it makes you feel happy and optimistic, which in turn boosts your confidence. In addition, smiling can help to make you appear more confident to others. This is because when you smile, it changes the way that you look, and people tend to associate smiling with being confident and happy.

The benefits of smiling are clear – it can boost your mood, increase self-confidence, and make you feel happier overall. However, if you have an imperfect smile, you may be less apt to smile. This is where Dr. Ania Mohelicki comes in. With the help of our team, patients are able to achieve a smile that they are WILLING to share with others because it’s beautiful! Cosmetic dentistry is a field of dental work that focuses on restoring the natural teeth and gums to look their best. It may include certain procedures such as:

Tooth-colored fillings
Porcelain veneers
Composite resin bonding
Professional teeth whitening and bleaching
Dental crowns
Dentures
Dental bridges
Dental implants

How do I learn more about cosmetic dentistry?

Enhancing the appearance of your smile can also help in achieving confidence, in addition to transforming the teeth. If you are located in the Boulder, CO area and want to speak to Dr. Ania Mohelicki about cosmetic dentistry, call 303-443-0998 to book an appointment. The office is open to new and returning patients.

Posted: May 15, 2022 By: content.team

Why do I have a bad taste in my mouth?

Do you find yourself experiencing a bad taste in your mouth? If so, you may be dealing with halitosis, or “bad breath.” Bad breath has hit everyone at one time or another. Sometimes it is caused by the foods we eat, such as onions or garlic, and other times it is due to poor oral health habits. It may also be the sign of a more serious dental problem. Boulder, CO area patients can schedule an appointment with Dr. Ania Mohelicki for a thorough assessment.

What are common causes of bad breath?

Bad breath may be caused by a variety of issues. By pinpointing the problem at hand, the dentist can then make recommendations for effective treatments. Some causes may be due to:

What you have recently consumed
Poor oral hygiene habits
Dry mouth (lack of saliva)
Tobacco use
Periodontal disease

What should I do if I have bad breath?

If possible, determine the source of the problem. If you recently had a meal with garlic and onions, your bad breath will probably be more temporary. However, if you have chronic bad breath, you may need to speak to a professional to determine the cause and discuss possible treatments. For example, patients with dry mouth might want to ensure they are always drinking water and staying hydrated to reduce the risk of bad breath, while those who have periodontal disease may need to seek periodontal treatments to resolve the problem and therefore, resolve their bad breath. The treatment chosen for a patient will be determined based on the cause of the bad breath and the severity.

Treatments may include:

Improved oral hygiene habits
Treatment for dry mouth
Stopping tobacco use
Treating periodontal disease
Avoiding highly scented foods and beverages

Are you dealing with chronic bad breath?

Make an appointment with Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, Colorado for a cleaning and evaluation. With a proper diagnosis and an evaluation into the cause of bad breath, she can help you eradicate it and feel more confident when socializing with others. Call 303-443-0998 to make an appointment with our team at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106.

Posted: October 15, 2021 By: content.team

What is the process of placing a tooth implant?

Tooth replacement with restorations such as dental implants are an excellent solution for many patients seeking permanent repair of the smile. These restorations are desirable by patients because of their many benefits. Dental implants are also extremely versatile and can be used in many different situations for completely different outcomes. One common question patients might have about dental implants is the process of obtaining them from start to finish. Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, Colorado can help in describing the process of dental implantations.

How am I determined as a candidate for dental implants?

Initial dental implant consultation – during an initial evaluation with Dr. Ania Mohelicki, patients may undergo a series of tests and digital imaging such as CT scans, panoramic films, and x-rays to check the bone structure where the implant will be placed. A medical history is performed, as well as a physical examination to ensure a patient can obtain an implant and have a successful surgery.
Surgical procedure – patients are then scheduled for oral surgery, during which the dentist will place the implant into the bone of the jaw. This is an invasive procedure, but patients often heal quickly.
Osseointegration – the placement of the dental implant stimulates the growth of natural bone around it through a process called osseointegration. This is how the implant becomes one with the jaw and is held firmly in place, just as the rest of the teeth are, within the jawbone.
Restoration – after the area has healed, the abutment over the dental implant is ready for restoration. The type of restoration is determined by the patient’s needs and may include a dental crown, a dental bridge, or a full denture.

How do I start the process of obtaining a dental implant?

Connecting with an implant dentist is the first step in achieving the smile of your dreams after tooth loss! Boulder, Colorado area patients can call Dr. Ania Mohelicki at 303-443-0998 to request a consultation visit and initial evaluation. During this time, x-rays may be taken and a thorough examination performed to determine if a patient is a candidate. The office is conveniently located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106 and accepts new patients and families.

Posted: September 15, 2021 By: content.team

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