Blog | Boulder Dentist | Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

How TMJ issues can impact your smile health

Your temporomandibular joints, or TMJ, are the hinges that connect your jaw to your skull. If you have pain in these joints, it’s called TMJ/TMD. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO, see patients with this condition and can help them treat it. TMJ/TMD can happen for all sorts of reasons: arthritis, teeth grinding, clenching your jaw. When it does, it can not only be painful but also lead to problems with your bite and your smile.

Here’s how:

Poor bite alignment. If you have TMJ/TMD, you may find that your teeth don’t fit together the way they used to. Your upper teeth and lower teeth may not line up when you bite down. This is called malocclusion. You may also have trouble opening and closing your mouth. All of this can lead to changes in the way your teeth fit together and even tooth loss.
Pain and discomfort. TMJ/TMD can also cause pain in your face, neck, and shoulders. You may have headaches, or you may find it hard to chew. Your jaw may even click or pop when you move it. All of this can have an impact on your smile. If you’re in pain, you may not feel like smiling. And if you can’t bite and chew properly, your smile may not look its best.
Bruxism. In addition, TMJ/TMD is sometimes associated with bruxism, which is the clenching and grinding of the teeth. This causes damage to the smile as well as fatigue of the jaw joint and muscles. Wearing a nightguard when you sleep can reduce this damage and protect the smile when resting.

Request time to speak to our dental team about your options for treatment

Fortunately, there are treatments available for TMJ/TMD, including massage therapy, oral appliances, and in severe cases, surgery. If you think you might have this condition, talk to Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO. She can help you find the right treatment for you and get your smile back on track! Call 303-872-9940 to request a consultation visit at her office and start taking charge of your oral health and wellness along with your TMJ/TMD condition!

Posted: October 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

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

Understanding TMJ/TMD

young man feeling pain, holding his cheek with hand TMD is a condition that can chronically affect a patient their entire life. It can develop and become a hinderance in their everyday activities. With the help of a dentist such as Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO, many patients will find that their pain and discomfort is caused by a malfunction of this jaw joint and can be resolved with the assistance of a dental provider. Read on to learn more about TMJ/TMD and what can be done to address it.

What is the difference between TMJ and TMD?

TMJ is an acronym for temporomandibular joint. It is the joint that connects the mandible, or lower jaw, to the temporal bone of the skull. The TMJ is responsible for a wide range of movements, including chewing, talking, and yawning. TMD stands for temporomandibular disorder. It is a condition that affects the function of the TMJ and can cause pain in the jaw, headaches, and neck pain.

What can be done about temporomandibular disorder?

There are a number of treatments available for temporomandibular disorder, including oral appliances, splints, and surgery. However, the best treatment for each individual will vary depending on the cause of the disorder and the severity of the symptoms. In most cases, however, a combination of therapies will be needed to achieve the best results. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team evaluate patients to help determine the severity of their condition and their lifestyle to decide on the best treatment recommendation.

How long does it take to treat TMD?

Sometimes there is trial and error needed to find out what works best for each patient. Alternatively, a combination of treatments may also be recommended depending on the severity of the patient’s current condition and how it is impacting their lives. Dr. Ania Mohelicki takes all of this into consideration when recommending a certain treatment.

How do I learn more about this condition?

If you suspect that you are dealing with temporomandibular disorder and want to speak to a professional about your treatment options, call Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, CO at 303-872-9940. The office is open to new patients and can help individuals with a wide range of comprehensive dentistry solutions.

Posted: June 15, 2022 By: henley.tabal

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

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