Blog | Boulder Dentist | Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

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: henley.tabal

How Invisalign can straighten your teeth

Patients of the Boulder, Colorado area have heard of alternative orthodontic treatments that can help them achieve their dream smile without metal brackets and wires. This treatment is known as Invisalign, and is growing in popularity for teen and adult patients who want to straighten their teeth in a more discreet manner. Invisalign is a highly desirable treatment that can be used to address mild to moderate malocclusion and bite alignment for both men and women.

How Invisalign works

With Invisalign, patients avoid the placement of metal brackets and wires on their smiles and instead have a series of clear plastic trays. These trays are used to achieve beautiful smiles without traditional orthodontia, which is one reason why this treatment is so popular. Patients start with the first tray and wear it for two weeks, at least 20 hours a day. Patients can remove the trays for brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking. After the two weeks, patients remove the tray and start using the next tray in their series. By the time they reach the final tray in their treatment, they are able to see the dramatic changes that have occurred with their smiles.

Why choose Invisalign orthodontics?

Invisalign orthodontics is a reliable treatment that can help teenagers and adults in achieving a smile that is properly aligned and beautiful. In the meantime, while undergoing their treatments, patients can feel confident in their appearance as the trays are difficult to notice from the natural tooth enamel. This allows patients to make changes without having to feel embarrassed by metal appliances present. A consultation visit with Dr. Ania Mohelicki is the first step in finding out more about this treatment and whether or not a patient is a proper candidate for this or other cosmetic services available at the office.

Call Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO today to schedule a consultation appointment

Are you a good candidate for Invisalign orthodontics? Find out by calling our team of professionals today! Call 303-443-0998 to request an appointment with our team and discuss your unique dental needs. The office is located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106 and is open to new patients.

Posted: April 15, 2022 By: henley.tabal

What bad breath says about you

It’s no surprise that eating garlicy foods or onions can cause temporary bad breath. Many of us will avoid these types of food if we are going on a date. But what about constant bad breath? If you are dealing with more chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, your Boulder, CO area dentist may be able to help. Finding the cause and the source of the problem is the first step in finding relief!

What can cause bad breath?

Below are just a few of the more common reasons patients experience bad breath:

Certain foods and beverages
Poor oral health habits
Recent oral surgery (wounds or infection)
Dry mouth
Certain medications

The cause of bad breath says a lot about a patient and their oral habits. When patients have bad breath due to poor oral health, it tells others that you are not committed to achieving and maintaining good oral health habits and making your smile a priority. This can lead people to think negative thoughts about an individual and the way they care for themselves. But some people are not even aware that they have bad breath and might not realize it until someone else says something to them.

How to address bad breath

There are a few approaches to treating bad breath for patients to consider. This includes avoiding certain foods and beverages that can contribute to halitosis to improving oral health habits. Even those who thoroughly brush and floss their teeth may want to consider the benefits of integrating a special mouthwash or using a tongue scraper to further improve their halitosis. If the problem persists, it’s a good idea to talk to a dental provider about other avenues to addressing the issue once and for all!

Call Dr. Ania Mohelicki to learn more about bad breath and what to do about it!

Boulder, CO area patients who are dealing with bad breath will want to speak to a professional about their options for treatment. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team are located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106 and can be reached at 303-443-0998 to request a consultation appointment.

Posted: March 15, 2022 By: henley.tabal

Man in pain holding his cheek with hand, suffering from bad tooth ache

What is TMJ and how does it impact my smile?

Many general dentists such as Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, Colorado work with patients who have questions about a condition known as temporomandibular joint disorder. This condition, often caused TMJ or TMD, can become problematic for individuals, causing pain and discomfort. By getting a proper diagnosis of the condition and speaking to a professional about solutions, many patients can find relief with appropriate treatment. Below are some commonly asked questions about TMJ/TMD.

What is TMJ/TMD?

TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint, while TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. This condition affects the jaw joint that hinges the upper and lower jaw together. It allows us to open and close our mouth for speaking, yawning, chewing, and talking. When this jaw joint becomes dysfunctional, it can result in various issues that may be difficult for patients to manage.

What are the symptoms of TMJ/TMD?

Common symptoms of TMJ/TMD include:

Clenching and grinding of the teeth
Pain in or around the jaw joint and surrounding muscles
Clicking or popping of the jaw joint
Locking of the jaw in the open or closed position
Chronic headaches and migraines
Neck, ear, shoulder, and head pain
Difficulty or pain opening or closing the jaw

How does TMJ/TMD affect my smile?

Some patients experience dysfunction of the jaw joint due to poor bite alignment, in which certain treatments such as orthodontic services can alleviate the issue. In some instances, the problem lies in the joint and muscles themselves. Patients with significant muscle pain may consider certain injectable treatments to manage pain and discomfort such as Botox. Treatment may also include wearing a specialized night guard or mouthguard to protect the teeth and reduce tension in the jaw joint. Once a patient has a definitive diagnosis of TMJ/TMD, they can work alongside Dr. Ania Mohelicki to find a solution that works!

Ready to learn more about TMJ/TMD?

Speak to a dentist with extensive experience in helping patients with this and many other dental concerns. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, Colorado encourage new patients to learn more about this condition to better understand how it can affect oral health. Call 303-443-0998 to schedule a visit with our team at 2919 Valmont Road, Ste. #106.

Posted: February 14, 2022 By: henley.tabal

Beautiful parents and their daughter are looking at camera and smiling while brushing teeth

How fluoride can help your teeth

You may have heard of fluoride treatment. You might know that fluoride is good for you, but you may not be sure why. Learning about fluoride and dental treatments is the first step in taking a proactive approach to improving your oral health and wellness. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, Colorado are available to assist patients in learning more about how fluoride treatments can protect their smiles.

What is fluoride?

First, it is a good idea to understand what fluoride is. Fluoride is an element that is naturally found in the environment, specifically in water sources such as the ocean. Fluoride has been found to be a wonderful, natural anti-cavity agent for humans. This is why fluoride is integrated into so many different products in the oral care arena. Fluoride can strengthen the natural tooth enamel, protecting it against the risk of cavities. It can also help rebuild tooth structure after small areas of decay have developed, restoring the area without the need for a dental filling.

How can fluoride help the teeth?

Fluoride strengthens the teeth and is readily available in toothpastes, mouthwashes, and even as a topical application performed at the dental office. Most city water sources also integrate fluoride into the drinking water, allowing for improved strength and protection of the smile. During a cleaning and evaluation, patients of all ages can ask about fluoride treatments that can be administered during an office visit.

Who is a candidate for fluoride treatments?

Patients of any age can benefit from fluoride at the dental office, though it is more commonly used for children and for older adults with thinning tooth enamel and sensitivity. Fluoride treatments may also be used for adults who may have signs of early cavities to rebuild the tooth structure and avoid the need for fillings. Dr. Ania Mohelicki will provide a thorough evaluation for a patient and decide if they would benefit from a fluoride treatment in the dental office.

Ready to learn more about fluoride treatment?

Contact Dr. Ania Mohelicki by calling 303-443-0998. The office is located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106 in Boulder, Colorado and accepts new patients.

Posted: January 15, 2022 By: henley.tabal

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

A man smokes an electronic cigarette on a gray background, blowing a stream of smoke

Is vaping bad for your smile?

It’s no secret that smoking and chewing tobacco is a habit that is bad for your both and your mouth. Smoking cigarettes can dramatically increase one’s risk of developing oral and lung cancer, while also contributing to the development of problems such as periodontal disease and chronic bad breath. But what about e-cigarettes? E-cigarettes, also known as vaping pens, have become incredibly popular over the last few years, but are they better for your mouth and body?

Nope! Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, Colorado educates patients on ways to keep their smiles healthy. This includes not only stopping the use of chewing tobacco and smoking cigarettes, but ditching e-cigarettes as well. Vaping is bad for your teeth and gums just as traditional cigarettes are. Vaping is seen as a healthier alternative to smoking cigarettes as there is no tobacco, but this isn’t exactly true! E-cigarettes still deliver nicotine, but do so with a vapor or “aerosol” that is often flavored. This water vapor is seen as harmless, but it’s not. It also includes metals and chemicals that have been proven to link to heart disease, respiratory disease, and cancers. This means that there is a health risk to vaping as well as smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco.

Vaping and your smile

Many patients who are considering the switch from cigarettes to vape pens may want to ask Dr. Ania Mohelicki about the impact it can have on their teeth and gums. Below are just a few of the problems that can occur with vape pen use:

Receding gum tissues
Dry mouth (poor saliva flow)
Increased bacteria (and increased gum disease risk)
Bruxism (clenching and grinding)
Tooth decay

In addition, patients may experience:

An increased risk of heart disease
Poor immune system
Damage to the lungs
Damage to blood cells
Increased cancer risks

Discuss your dental needs with Dr. Ania Mohelicki

Boulder, Colorado area patients ready to improve their oral health and start practicing good habits are welcome to book an appointment with our dentist to discuss their options. The office is located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106 and accepts new patients who call for an appointment at 303-443-0998.

Posted: August 15, 2021 By: content.team

Sign of obstructive sleep apnea and how your dentist can help

Do you find yourself tired each day, even though you’re getting the recommended hours of sleep each night? Do you find yourself dealing with snoring, daytime headaches, and poor memory and concentration? If you are experiencing these symptoms, it may be time to speak to a professional about getting tested for obstructive sleep apnea. Approximately 12 million Americans are affected by sleep apnea, and many go undiagnosed.

What is obstructive sleep apnea?

Dr. Ania Mohelicki and the team at her practice in Boulder, Colorado describe obstructive sleep apnea, or “OSA,” as a condition that can cause patients to stop breathing hundreds of times each night. This causes patients to experience a wake/sleep cycle that never allows them to reach the deeper, restorative levels of sleep that help them feel their best each day. It is often caused by an obstruction of the airway, including excess fat on the throat or the tongue falling back into the back of the throat.

Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea

Some of the more common symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include:

Shortness of breath at night
Chronic snoring and gasping
Insomnia/trouble sleeping
Choking/snorting sounds during the night
Morning headaches/migraines
Poor concentration and memory
Extreme daytime drowsiness and fatigue
Periods of falling asleep during the day

What can a dentist do for OSA?

Obstructive sleep apnea is often addressed with a CPAP machine, which is a device that is prescribed by a doctor to use at night to keep the airways open. However, this machine can be cumbersome and many patients stop using it. Instead, a dentist such as Dr. Ania Mohelicki may suggest the use of a special oral appliance to wear at night and keep the airways open. This device is small, comfortable, affordable, and improves patient compliance when compared to traditional CPAP usage.

Call your dentist today

If you believe you are dealing with OSA, it might be time to talk to a physician or dentist about treatment. Contact Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, Colorado at 303-443-0998 to request a consultation visit with her team and learn more about the diagnosis and treatment of this and other dental concerns. Her facility is open to new and established patients and families at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106.

Posted: July 15, 2021 By: content.team

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