Blog | Boulder Dentist | Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

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

All about orthodontic treatments available with Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, CO

Straightening the smile is easier than ever now that dentists have access to various orthodontic approaches. Many adults avoid talking to their dentist about straightening the smile for fear that they may still require traditional metal bracket and wire braces. However, there are other methodologies available now for patients to choose from. Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, Colorado work routinely with patients who want to learn more about orthodontic options available to them at her practice.

Types of orthodontic treatment available:

Traditional metal braces – some patients with moderate to severe misalignment may be the right candidate for traditional metal braces. These are brackets and wires that are connected to reposition the teeth. Patients who have traditional braces may have two phases completed with a resting phase in-between.
Clear braces – instead of dark metal brackets and wires, we also offer orthodontic treatment that includes tooth-colored brackets and wires that are less noticeable when patients smile.
Aligner trays – Invisalign is a popular choice for teenagers and adults who have mild to moderate misalignment of the teeth. This method of realignment uses a series of aligner trays that patients wear 20 hours a day to gently move the teeth into the desired position.
Lingual braces – lingual braces are traditional metal braces that are placed behind the teeth instead of on the front of the teeth. These braces allow for patients to realign the smile without feeling self-conscious about their appearance with conventional brackets and wires.

Which one is right for me?

During an evaluation, Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team will determine which type of orthodontic treatments are available for a specific patient. There is no “one size fits all” solution to orthodontia, which makes it important to have a plan tailored to the individual and their unique needs.

How do I learn more about orthodontic treatments?

Patients of the Boulder, CO area who are ready to learn more about orthodontic treatment with Dr. Ania Mohelicki can connect with her by calling 303-443-0998 to determine if they are good candidates for any of our treatment options available. The office is conveniently located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106 and is open to new and returning patients.

Posted: December 15, 2021 By: henley.tabal

The importance of replacing missing teeth

Tooth loss is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. Not only is the cause of the tooth loss a concern, but the replacement of the tooth is necessary. Patients with missing teeth from injury, disease, or manual extraction will want to work with a Boulder, CO area dentist to determine the best way to replace these teeth—and know why it is important.

Why should missing teeth be replaced as soon as possible?

There are several consequences that can occur to patients who do not immediately have their missing or extracted teeth replaced. Below are just a few of the problems that can arise:

Shifting of the remaining teeth, resulting in spaces and gaps within the bite
Poor bite alignment which can cause uneven wear and tear on the upper and lower teeth
Bone loss, also known as bone resorption, which occurs when teeth are no longer in place
The inability to eat effectively and speak efficiently
The appearance of one or more missing teeth that can make patients feel self-conscious about their appearance

What can I do about missing teeth?

Patients have several options available to them when they visit Dr. Ania Mohelicki and are interested in replacing missing teeth. With three primary options, patients can learn more about the ways in which they can restore the smile effectively with tooth replacement options.

What methods of replacement are available?

Dentures. Both full and partial dentures can be used to replace one or all the teeth in the smile. These removable restorations are made to look as natural as possible and restore functionality.
Dental bridges. Patients who want a fixed restoration that does not need to be removed and cared for might find dental bridges to be a better option. This is a porcelain restoration that “bridges the gap” left behind by missing teeth with a false tooth.
Dental implants. Most patients will use dental implants to replace missing teeth, as this method is permanent and easy to care for.

Call Dr. Ania Mohelicki today

Boulder, CO area patients who are in need of dental work, especially the replacement of missing teeth, will want to learn more about what is offered to them at local dental clinics. Patients considering working with Dr. Ania Mohelicki can call 303-443-0998 to schedule an appointment at her practice, conveniently located at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106.

Posted: November 15, 2021 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

Achieve a straighter smile with orthodontics

An attractive smile is more than just white teeth. Many patients with overcrowding or misalignment will want to speak to a dental professional to determine the ways in which they can enhance their smile. In many cases, orthodontic treatment is the way to do this! Dr. Ania Mohelicki of Boulder, Colorado believes in providing her patients with solutions that fit their needs—and their lifestyle. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, now is the time to learn about traditional and non-traditional methods.

Conventional braces – when patients think of orthodontic work, teenagers with metal bracket and wire braces often come to mind. Conventional braces still have great purpose today in helping patients with malocclusion. For some individuals, it is still the idea way to improve the smile, especially for those with moderate to severe misalignment. At the practice of Dr. Ania Mohelicki, patients may find that this is the best choice for their needs. Metal bracket and wire braces are not only for teenagers but can be used on adults as well. Patients might undergo two phases of braces but often never regret receiving treatment, even if it is later on in their life.
Invisalign braces – an alternative that many patients choose is the of Invisalign. Invisalign is a method of straightening the teeth with the use of clear aligner trays. These trays are swapped out every two weeks for the next tray in the patient’s series. Invisalign gently repositions the teeth in a discreet way, and helps patients feel confident throughout treatment.
Lingual braces – another option for patients to consider is lingual braces. These are braces that are actually put behind the teeth to realign the smile without them being visible. This is a great solution for patients who have more severe misalignment but don’t want to cover their smiles with metal appliances.

Enhance your smile with orthodontic care today

Dr. Ania Mohelicki and her team in Boulder, Colorado are pleased to provide not only traditional orthodontia, but nontraditional alternatives such as Invisalign. Call the office today to request a consultation appointment and initial evaluation at 303-443-0998 and visit at 2919 Valmont Road, Suite #106.

Posted: June 15, 2021 By: content.team

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