are-your-gums-healthy

Are Your Gums Healthy?

Keeping your gums healthy is an important part of your dental, and overall health. Research has shown that certain conditions like high cholesterol and diabetes, along with taking certain medications, can affect the health of your gums. Alternatively, people with gum disease are more prone to developing cardiovascular health problems. You should aim to keep your gums healthy. If you’re not sure where to start, follow these 3 tips from Dr. Ania.  

What is Gum Disease?

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, in an infection of the tissues that hold your teeth in place. So what causes it? The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that our mouths are full of bacteria, and when this bacteria meets mucus and other particles, it forms a sticky film on the teeth, which is what we know as plaque. 

Having a good oral hygiene routine that includes brushing and flossing daily can get rid of plaque, however, if it’s not properly removed, plaque can turn into tartar that you can’t remove by brushing alone. When tartar forms, only a professional dental cleaning can remove it. 

They explain that symptoms of gum disease can include:

  • Bad breath that doesn’t go away
  • Red and swollen gums
  • Tender or bleeding gums 
  • Painful chewing
  • Loose teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Receding gums or longer appearing teeth

Who’s at Risk for Gum Disease? 

A number of different factors can contribute to your risk of developing gum disease. The American Academy of Periodontology explains that the most common risk factors are:

Age

Several studies have shown that older people have the highest likelihood of developing periodontal disease. In fact, studies from the CDC explain that over 70% of Americans 65 and older have periodontal disease. 

Smoking/tobacco use 

Tobacco use is not only linked with serious conditions like cancer, lung, and heart disease, but it also puts patients at an increased risk for gum disease. Studies have shown that tobacco use is one of the most significant risk factors in the developing and progression of gum disease. 

Genetics

Studies have further shown that certain people are more genetically susceptible to developing gum disease. Despite having good oral hygiene, some people can be more likely to develop the condition based on hereditary factors. 

Stress

Another risk factor that can make you more prone to a variety of serious health conditions is stress. If you are chronically stressed, you can be more likely to suffer from hypertension, cancer, and a number of other health issues. Further, it can also make it more difficult for your body to fit off infections, like gum disease. 

Medications 

Some medication, like oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and certain heart medicine, can affect your oral health. It’s important that you notify your dentist of all medications you currently take, just like you would tell your primary care physician. 

Clenching or grinding your teeth

People who clench or grind their teeth put excess pressure on the supporting tissues of the teeth and could speed up the rate at which these periodontal tissues are destroyed. 

Other systemic diseases

Systemic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis can interfere with your body’s inflammatory system and worsen the condition of your gums. 

Poor nutrition and obesity

 A poor diet could mean that you aren’t getting the nutrients your body needs to function properly, and it can make it more difficult for your body to fight off infection. Gum disease begins as an infection, so poor nutrition can worsen our condition. 

Gum Disease and Your Health

Dr. Ania and our team pride ourselves in customizing every aspect of your care, even your cleanings. When you come in for your appointment, our team will fully examine your gum health and determine the best course of action dependent on your condition. Not only can your gum condition affect your oral health, but it can also affect your overall health. Researchers at Columbia University found that people with gum disease were more likely to suffer from arteriosclerosis, narrowing of the blood vessels that can cause a heart attack or stroke. Doctors looked at the bacteria in the mouths of nearly 700 men and women with no history of heart attack or stroke, as well as the width of their carotid arteries. The more bacteria the person had, the more likely they were to have narrowed arteries. 

Protect your overall health by taking care of your gums with Dr. Ania today. Make an appointment with our team by giving us a call at (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: January 14, 2021 By: Comment: 0

Dentures Vs. Dental Implants

Are you missing teeth? Do you have damaged teeth? Are you suffering from gum disease or tooth decay? If your smile has been affected due to injured or missing teeth, restorative dentistry options are here for you. 

Dental implants are a restorative dentistry option that allows patients to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and perform like natural teeth. They are the most effective, predictable, and longest-lasting option to replace one or multiple missing teeth. However, dental implants are not the same thing as dentures. Here is how to know which is best for you. 

Causes of Missing Teeth

There are a number of reasons why a person might lose teeth as an adult. Common reasons a person might be missing teeth could be due to dental health issues like tooth decay, gum disease, injuries, or even hereditary issues. If you have missing teeth, you should consider restorative dentistry.

What is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is the type of dentistry that works to keep your mouth full of teeth. This means having work done to replace missing, injured, or decayed teeth. Common restorative dental procedures include: 

  • Dental fillings
  • Veneers
  • Crowns
  • Bridges
  • Dental implants 
  • Dentures 

What are Dental Implants? 

Dental implants are an option for you if you need to restore your mouth and replace lost teeth. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry explains that dental implants are like artificial tooth roots, similar in shape to screws. They are placed into your jawbone and they bond with your natural bone. They become a sturdy base for supporting one or more artificial teeth, called crowns.  Next, a connector, called an abutment, is put on top of the implant to hold and support the crown. The crown will then be made to match your natural teeth and fit your smile perfectly. 

Modern dental implants are some of the strongest devices available to restore your mouth and support replacement teeth. They can allow your new teeth to look and function naturally. 3 million people in the United States have implants, a number that grows by about 500,000 each year.  Dental implants are the only dental restoration option that can preserve natural bone, which can actually stimulate bone growth.

If properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime, whereas dentures typically need to be replaced as time goes by.

What are Dentures?

Another replacement for missing teeth, dentures can be taken in and out of the mouth by yourself. A full set of dentures include a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over your gums. The base of the upper denture covers the roof of your mouth, while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue. Colgate explains that modern dentures are natural looking and comfortable, however they will never feel the exact same as your natural teeth. Dentures are custom-made in a lab based on impressions from your mouth, and can help restore your mouth to normal working function. 

People who get dentures might find that it takes a few weeks, or sometimes months, to get used to eating and speaking with them

. Further, dentures need to be handled with care to make sure you get the most out of them. Additionally, proper care can help your dentures last longer. Colgate explains to care for your dentures you should: 

  • Care for them standing on a soft surface, as they can break if dropped.
  • Not let the dentures dry out. They should be placed in a denture cleanser soaking solution or in plain water when you are not wearing them. 
  • Brush your dentures, gums, and tongue daily with a soft-bristled brush.
  • See your dentist if you ever experience an issue with your dentures, being sure to not adjust them yourself. 

If you have missing teeth, the best option is to talk with your dentist to find what restorative dentistry option is best for you. While dentures might work for a family member of yours, they might not be the best option for yourself. 

Call Dr. Ania 

If you have  periodontal disease, tooth decay, or have an injury that has impacted the integrity of your smile, improve your quality of life by calling Dr. Ania for an appointment today. Whether you are a candidate for dental implants or dentures, Dr. Ania will determine the best course of action for your condition and get you a full, restored smile soon. Schedule an appointment today by calling our office now at (303)-872-9940. You can have your smile back, contact us now! 

 

Posted: January 6, 2021 By: Comment: 0
Smile-in-the-New-Year-with-Porcelain-Veneers

Smile in the New Year with Porcelain Veneers 

Having a new year come around is a good time to evaluate your goals and wants for the next 365 days. If one of your goals is to smile more and be more confident, Dr. Ania and our team are here for you. If you want to start 2021 off with a smile you can feel confident about, we encourage you to learn more about the possibility of porcelain veneers today.

What are Porcelain Veneers?

Sometimes referred to as instant orthodontics, porcelain veneers can quickly change or enhance your smile. Crooked, chipped, tetracycline-stained teeth, or simply that you dislike the shape and/or color of your teeth, are some of the reasons to consider laminate veneers.

The Porcelain Veneer Procedure

Getting veneers typically requires a few trips to the dentist. You will first need a consultation, the veneers will then need to be made, and then the veneers will be applied. You can have one or all of your teeth done at the same time. If you’re interested in learning more about the procedure, here is what you can expect: 

Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

When you come into your consultation, you’ll let the dentist know exactly what kind of look you are trying to get by using porcelain veneers. From here, the dentist will examine your teeth to make sure you are a good candidate for this procedure and then discuss all what you can expect in full. 

Preparation 

To get ready for veneers, your dentist will need to reshape the tooth surface. You and your dentist will decide if the area being treated needs to be numbed before trimming the enamel. From here, the dentist will take impressions of your teeth being treated. The model will then go to a dental laboratory, and they will make your specific veneer. It can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to get these back from the lab, but temporary veneers can be used in this timeframe. 

Bonding

Once your veneers are back from the lab, you will then come in to have them bonded to your teeth. Your dentist will place the veneer on your tooth and examine its fit and color, adjusting it as needed before permanently bonding it to your tooth. A special cement will be applied to the veneer and it will be placed onto your tooth. Your dentist will shine a special light to active the cement, causing it to harden quickly. The final steps will include removing any excess cement, checking your bite and making adjustments as needed. 

Risks and How Long They Last

Dental veneers are made to last for a long time, but that’s only if you take good care of them. Complications and the risks associated with this treatment are rare, however HealthGrades mentions they could include: 

  • Allergic reaction to local anesthetic, if used 
  • Breakage, cracking, or loss of veneers
  • Possible increase in tooth sensitivity due to some enamel being taken away
  • Tooth infection
  • Staining 

Once your veneers are set into place, the color cannot be altered. Due to this, if you are interested in any whitening or need other restorative work, it’s best to do that before you receive your veneers so the color can be properly matched. 

You can help reduce your risk of developing problems with your veneers by: 

  • Not biting or chewing on hard objects that could cause them to break
  • Notifying your dentist of any concerns after the procedure such as pain, fever, and difficulty chewing
  • Telling your dentist about any allergies or other medical conditions you currently have 

Caring For Your Teeth

Whether or not you have veneers, it’s important to properly care for teeth. You should follow a routine similar to:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes 
  • Flossing once a day
  • Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and drinking enough water
  • Seeing your dentist every six months 
  • Using fluoride, which can be found in a majority of tap water sources or in toothpastes 

You can have treatments and procedures done to help enhance your smile, however, if you’re not caring for your teeth once you go home, you can’t expect those treatments to last. To make the most of veneers, be sure you stick to a strict dental hygiene routine. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania 

Start 2021 on the right foot by making an appointment with Dr. Ania. Whether you are interested in veneers or have another treatment you’re interested in, our team is here for you in this new year. To make an appointment, call us today at (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: January 2, 2021 By: Comment: 0
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Stress-Reducing Tips to Stop Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding and clenching can be caused due to feeling anxiety or stress. If this holiday season has left you feeling stressed and your jaw sore, you could be grinding your teeth. Grinding your teeth due to stress means you need to find a way to reduce stress. If you’re not sure where to start, follow these tips!

What is Teeth Grinding? 

Bruxism, more commonly known as teeth grinding, is a condition where you grind, gnash, or clench your teeth together. People who have this condition can do it unknowingly when they’re awake or even while they’re asleep at night. Signs and symptoms of bruxism can include: 

  • Teeth grinding or clenching, which can be loud enough for other people to hear
  • Flattened, fractured, chipped, or loose teeth
  • Worn tooth enamel, exposing deeper layers of your tooth
  • Increased tooth pain or sensitivity 
  • Tired or tight jaw muscles, or a locked jaw that won’t open and close properly
  • Jaw, neck, or facial pain or soreness 
  • Earaches 
  • Dull headache near the temples
  • Damage from chewing on the inside of your cheek
  • Problems sleeping 

Reducing Stress

It’s been reported that 55% of Americans are stressed at one point or another during their day. For some people, their teeth grinding and clenching can be linked to stress or anxiety. If you have problems with clenching your teeth and you are often stressed, you could benefit from learning how to manage and reduce your stress. If this sounds like you, try these tips for reducing your stress:

Get Outdoors

Getting outside during the day has been shown to greatly reduce stress levels. Fresh air and the sunlight can do wonders for your stress levels during the day. If you find yourself sitting at your desk, try to prioritize getting outdoors for a five minute walk every few hours, weather permitting, of course. 

Exercise 

Another proven way to reduce stress is to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day. Exercising can boost your mood, and it’s a great stress reducer. Not only is it great for your mental health, but it’s great for your overall health, too. 

Talk with Loved Ones

When you’re feeling stressed, try talking with a family member or friend that you can trust about how you’re feeling. Having someone to vent to can help you feel better, and they often might have suggestions for what you can do to help your situation. 

Limit Caffeine 

We all love that cup of coffee or tea, or two, or three… but caffeine has been shown to increase anxiety in some people. Try to limit your caffeine to one cup a day, or none at all, when you’re feeling extra stressed. 

Prioritize Sleep 

It can be hard to turn our minds off at night, but if you’re feeling stressed it’s important to try and get a full, uninterrupted night’s sleep. When you sleep well, you wake up feeling more ready to take on your day. When you start the day on the right foot, you’re less likely to let stress get to you during the day. 

Treatments for Teeth Grinding

If reducing your stress isn’t helping your teeth grinding situation, it’s time to come into the dentist. Dr. Ania can check to see if your jaw pain is due to a condition like TMJ, or something else. If it is TMJ, which stands for temporomandibular joint disorder, you could be experiencing headaches, jaw joint pain and noise, limited mouth movement, ear congestion, and more. When this is the case, Dr. Ania will look at your bite and the functional problem it could be causing. Using state-of-the-art technology, Dr. Ania can evaluate your bite and determine if it is a major contributing factor to your condition. 

The most common treatment option for teeth grinding is getting a custom-fit night guard that you will wear to bed. This night guard helps protect your teeth and jaw from the painful effects of grinding and clenching your teeth. Your night guard will be made to fit your mouth perfectly, which means it will provide you with the most protection possible. This can help reduce or eliminate your symptoms altogether in some cases, as long as you are committed to wearing it each and every night. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania 

If you are having jaw pain and you believe it’s caused by grinding or clenching your teeth, call Dr. Ania today. The holidays can be stressful, but taking the steps to protect your jaw from feeling the effects of your stress and anxiety can help prevent more serious dental conditions from occurring. Protect your teeth today by making an appointment with Dr. Ania (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: December 23, 2020 By: Comment: 0
Do you need a crown for Christmas? Dental crowns don’t come with jewels, but they’re even more important. Same day crowns are a perfect choice for anyone who wants a beautiful smile without the downtime.

A Crown for Christmas 

Do you need a crown for Christmas? Dental crowns don’t come with jewels, but they’re even more important. Same day crowns are a perfect choice for anyone who wants a beautiful smile without the downtime. Crowns can improve the appearance of your teeth and protect tooth enamel, but the traditional methods of making crowns is time consuming. Fortunately, advanced technology now allows a handful of specially trained dentists to take digital impressions of the patients’ mouths and create the perfect crown right there, at the dentist’s office. Here is how you could really get a same-day crown for Christmas with Dr. Ania! 

Same Day Crowns 

Same day crowns are the best option for anyone who wants a beautiful smile but doesn’t want to spend months trying to achieve it. Crowns can improve the appearance of your teeth and preservice your tooth enamel, however, traditional crowns are time consuming. Thankfully, advanced technology now allows a handful of specially-trained dentists to take digital impressions of the mouth and create the perfect crown right there in the office — same day. Modern dentistry includes the integration of two major advances that make same day crowns possible. The two advances? Digital scanners and in-office milling machines. Dr. Ania is one of the few dentists in Boulder, CO to offer this new, cutting-edge service. 

A crown, also known as a ‘cap,’ serves as a protective armor for a tooth and allows you to bite full-force with no worry. Whether you need a crown on a front tooth or a molar, these custom ceramic crowns won’t show any unappealing dark band at the gum line. Further, when placed properly, ceramic crowns can match the appearance of your teeth very closely, giving you a natural-looking end result.

Candidates for Crowns 

If you have a tooth that has been seriously weakened or damaged, a strong dental crown is a highly effective and attractive cosmetic dentistry solution. The American Dental Association explains that you might be a candidate for a crown if you have a:

  • Cavity that is too big for a filling
  • Missing tooth and need a bridge
  • Dental implant that needs to be covered
  • Cracked, worn down, or weakened tooth 
  • Root canal treatment done and need to protect the restored tooth
  • Discolored or misshapen toot and want to improve your smile 

You may be a candidate for a ceramic crown if you have a tooth that has been affected by breakage or fractures, cracks, large cavities, or outdated fillings that require replacement. Our dental crowns are handcrafted in our very own lab with one-of-a-kind metal-free ceramic. 

The Process of Getting a Same Day Crown

When you come in for a same day crown, the process is fairly simple. It usually done in 3 steps:

  • The dentist will take digital pictures of your mouth
  • Using a digital scan from the photos, the dentist will create the crown right there in the office
  • Once it’s is ready, your dentist will cement it into place 

A dental crown will require some enamel reduction before it can be bonded to your tooth, so anesthesia is usually applied to make sure you’re comfortable throughout the procedure. The entire process will take about two hours total — no need to come back on another day.

Overall, the process is done in a matter of hours, versus needing to come in for multiple appointments like is needed when you receive a traditional crown. 

The process of getting a traditional crown includes multiple steps, like:

  • The dentist preparing your tooth that needs the crown. This can include getting x-rays or a mold of your mouth beforehand
  • Your dentist will file down and remove part of the outer layer of your tooth
  • An impression will be made of your trimmed tooth and it’s neighboring teeth
  • The dentist will install a temporary crown over your tooth to protect it
  • Your impression will be sent to a lab that will make the crown, this can take several weeks 
  • When the crown comes in, you’ll come back for another visit to have the dentist cement the crown to your tooth 

Get a Crown for Christmas with Dr. Ania

If you are not happy with your smile and want to learn more about our same-day crowns (and how you could get one before Christmas!) we encourage you to contact our office today by calling us at (303)-872-9940. Give yourself the gift of a beautiful smile this Christmas with Dr. Ania’s help! 

 

Posted: December 16, 2020 By: Comment: 0

‘Tis the Season for Therapeutic Botox 

Millions of adults of all ages have used Botox, Juvederm, and Restylane to achieve a more relaxed and smooth facial appearance. However, these treatments can now help dental health problems. Most of us are familiar with the cosmetic benefits of Botox, but many people aren’t aware that Botox has dental benefits, too. If you’re having persistent headaches that won’t go away or an upside down smile, Botox can help. 

What is Botox?

Botox comes from C. botulinum bacteria. This can be found in nature, like in soil, lakes, forests, and the intestinal tracts of mammals and fish. These naturally occurring bacteria are safe when used in a therapeutic context. Medical News Today explains that Botox injections contain very small doses of Botulinum toxin. When injected, this toxin can temporarily paralyze muscles, which can benefit people with various medical ailments or for those that just have facial flaws they’d like to correct. 

Botox in Dentistry

While Botox has not traditionally been used in a dental setting, it’s becoming a more and more popular way to help assist with a variety of dental and oral health issues. Dentists who are trained to use Botox are able to offer patients this effective treatment for a number of different conditions, like: 

  • Various types of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) – which typically responds well to this therapy. A lot of the pain associated with TMJ is due to muscular pain from hyperactivity of the muscles of mastication. TMJ can cause patients much discomfort. While treatments have been limited in the past, Botox is a promising newer option. This is due to the fact that it can relax the muscles. 
  • Bruxism and clenching – when you grind or clench your teeth, you place an immense amount of pressure on your jaw and teeth. Whether you do this at night while you sleep or during the day when stressed, you could benefit from minimizing  these dental issues with Botox injections. These injections can prevent the muscles from contracting with force. 
  • Gummy smiles – also known as a high lip line, Botox can help this condition without having to go through with a surgery or other invasive procedure. This will relax the lip muscles and provide the patient with a lower, more aesthetic smile. 
  • Denture patients – these patients can benefit from this treatment in cases where the lip muscles have repositioned due to decreased vertical dimension. If you have a hard time getting your lips to feel comfortable around your dentures, this treatment could help you a considerable amount.

Botox can also help dental patients who suffer from:

  • Headache pain resulting from muscle tension in the head, face, and neck
  • Headaches resulting from bite issues such as TMJ
  • Persistent clenching and grinding of the teeth
  • Upside-down smiles (as it takes more muscles to frown compared to smiling)
  • Lip lines and puckered chins

Dermal Fillers in Dentistry

Another similar treatment to Botox is the use of dermal fillers. As our skin ages, it begins to lose collage filled with hyaluronic acid. Collagen and hyaluronic acid add structure and volume to the face, therefore a lack of hyaluronic acid can make the skin sag and wrinkle — but dermal fillers can help. 

Dermal fillers are smooth gels that are come from naturally-occurring hyaluronic acid. These fillers add volume to the areas of your face that need it, and can restore your appearance to a more natural, youthful appearance. 

How Long Does Botox Last? 

You will begin to notice results within the first week of receiving your injections. The targeted facial muscles become temporarily relaxed, causing the overlying skin to lay flat and unwrinkled. The untreated facial muscles will continue to function as normal, which means your facial expressions are left unaffected. You can expect your injections to remain effective anywhere from 3 to 6 months, but it is different for everybody.  

Receiving this treatment comes with minimal risk, with the most common side effect being slight bruising and/or swelling at the injection site for a couple of days after you receive the treatment. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

Dr. Ania, a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, is highly trained in the entire anatomy of the head, neck, and oral cavity. She can safely and effectively administer your treatments with exceptional accuracy and precision. By making one short appointment with Dr. Ania, you will immediately see the results of Botox that can last for up to six months. Whether you suffer from TMJ pain or just want to correct the appearance of your smile, dental Botox could be the best treatment option for you. Call us today at (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: December 9, 2020 By: Comment: 0
teeth-friendly-holiday-snacks

Teeth-Friendly Holiday Snacks

The Christmas season is upon us, and so are all of our favorite peppermint drinks and gingerbread treats. We know you want to enjoy all of your holiday snacks, but we also know you want to care for your smile. Here are our top picks of the most teeth-friendly treats for the holidays! 

Teeth-Friendly Holiday Snacks 

As with snacks year-round, there are certain kinds of foods that aren’t kind to our teeth. Snacks that are crunchy, sticky, and loaded with sugar can do a number on your smile. Here are some popular holiday treats that you should limit for the sake of your smile, and what you can try instead! 

Instead of ooey-gooey snack mix, try… sweet and salty snack mix! 

Ooey-gooey chex mix – this popular snack is usually filled with crunchy ingredients and mixed with sticky binders like corn syrup that hold it altogether. The crunch and stickiness can wreak havoc on your smile by increasing cavity-causing bacteria and putting you at risk for breaking or chipping a tooth. Instead of the ooey-gooey option, make your own sweet and salty snack mix by mixing traditional chex mix ingredients with bits of chocolate chips or small chocolate candies. This sweet and salty mixture will still be a hit, just without all of the stickiness.

Instead of peppermint bark, try… peppermint patties! 

Peppermint bark – these popular snacks at holiday parties, though delicious, are usually hard to bite into. Made up of different chocolates and peppermint extract, then topped with chunks of candy canes, this hard snack could accidentally cause you to hurt a tooth. Instead, try making a similar treat: peppermint patties. This treat is softer, and will be easier on your teeth. You’ll still get the Christmas peppermint flavor you love, without the risk of breaking a tooth. 

Instead of popcorn balls, try… chocolate drizzled popcorn!

Popcorn balls are a popular holiday treat. However, just like ooey-gooey snack mix, they are often put together using an ingredient like corn syrup. This is also difficult to eat given its shape, crunchiness, and stickiness. A better, yet similar, snack for your teeth would be chocolate drizzled popcorn. If you’re a frequent popcorn eater, you know that those small kernels can easily get lodged between your teeth. When you enjoy this treat, be sure you thoroughly floss afterwards. 

If you still need more smile-safe snack ideas, try finding fun recipes online for the following: 

  • Mint chocolate chip cookies
  • Sugar cookies with festive icing
  • Peppermint hot chocolate
  • Spiced cider
  • Sausage balls 
  • Grinch fruit kabobs 

The Risk of Holiday Snacks

As you can tell from above, the biggest risk of holiday snacks is that many are sticky and crunchy in nature. The American Dental Association explains that crunchy snacks seem harmless, but they can trigger a dental emergency like a broken or chipped tooth. 

The other risk of holiday snacks is that they’re filled with sugar. Christmas only comes once a year, so enjoying these snacks in moderation is what we recommend. However, you should be sure to have a consistent dental hygiene routine that keeps your smile healthy year-round. Sugar clings to bacteria in your mouth and can put you at increased risk for excessive plaque, cavities, tooth decay, and more.

Dental Hygiene Tips 

A good oral health care plan takes research and practice, and what works for you might not work for your mom or your neighbor. To develop a oral health care plan, follow these steps: 

  • Understand your own dental health needs. You can best do this by talking with your dentist about your current oral health and what your goals are. 
  • Come up with and follow your daily oral health routine. Again, talking with your dentist will be your best option for understanding what you need to do to best care for your smile. If you have certain health conditions, like pregnancy or diabetes, you might have to do more than someone who isn’t expecting or diabetic. 

Other tips for caring for your smile include:

  • Using fluoride
  • Brushing and flossing daily 
  • Visiting your dentist every six months 

Make an appointment with Dr. Ania 

Whether you hurt a tooth eating a holiday snack, or just need help with your smile year-round, make an appointment with Dr. Ania. With decades of experience in helping patients achieve the smile of their dreams, Dr. Ania is equipped to help you no matter your dental needs. To make an appointment, call us today at (303)-872-9940. 

Posted: December 2, 2020 By: Comment: 0
woman smiling

Give Thanks for a Healthy Mouth

We’re in the month of giving thanks for all we’re grateful for, so why not be grateful for your oral health, too? Many of us take for granted the ability to chew, eat, and talk with our mouths everyday. This season, we encourage you to truly be thankful for your oral health. Here is how you can show your teeth some appreciation during this season of Thanksgiving. 

Ways to Show Thanks for Your Smile

If you are currently in good oral health and want to stay that way, there are things you can do to show thanks for having a healthy smile. So, what can you do to maintain your healthy smile? Our team here at Dr. Ania’s offers these tips: 

Start brushing your teeth longer

If you are like most people, you probably don’t brush your teeth for as long as you should. Recommendations currently include brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time. However, this is a fine line Healthline explains. If you don’t brush your teeth for two minutes, you won’t remove as much plaque from your teeth as you need. Alternatively, if you brush longer than two minutes, you could risk damage to your enamel and gums. 

Another way to show thanks for your teeth is to brush them properly. If you need a how-to to refresh your memory, here are the tips from Healthline: 

  • Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gums
  • Brush using short strokes that cover the width of one tooth
  • Move your toothbrush back and forth along the teeth, applying gentle pressure as you brush each tooth 
  • Use back-and-forth motion to brush along the chewing surfaces of your teeth
  • Properly brush the inner surfaces of your teeth by holding the toothbrush vertically and brushing up and down
  • Brush your tongue using back-to-front strokes to remove bacteria
  • Rinse your toothbrush after you use it 
  • Store your toothbrush in an upright position and away from other people’s toothbrushes 

Floss daily… yes, really! 

You shouldn’t only floss before you’re about to go to the dentist. Regular flossing can remove plaque, prevent the buildup of plaque, and prevent tartar from forming. Further, flossing can help brighten your teeth and clean them in ways that a toothbrush can’t. Not only does daily flossing keep your teeth healthy, but it also contributes to your oral health in other ways, too. Oral-B explains that there is an increasing amount of research and evidence that links periodontal disease to an increased risk of heart disease. Flossing can help prevent gum disease, and these further complications, by helping you remove plaque from your teeth. It also makes you look at your teeth more closely than you would if you are only brushing each day. 

Watch what you eat and drink

Another important component in your oral hygiene is what you eat and drink. If you are eating hard, sticky, and sugary foods, you are more at risk of damaging a tooth or getting a cavity. If you are drinking too much coffee or carbonated beverages, the acidity is going to make your teeth more prone to sensitivity and decay. Show thanks for your oral health by watching what you eat and drink — and enjoying your favorite not-so-good-for-you foods and drinks in moderation. 

See your dentist often 

One of the most critical parts of maintaining your oral health is visiting your dentist at least once every six months, or twice a year. Here at Dr. Ania’s, we pride ourselves in customizing every part of your dental care — even your cleanings! Our team will spend a lot of time with you cleaning your teeth, educating you about your gum health, and teaching you how to maintain a healthy mouth. Whether you’re in good oral health, or just want to get that way, making an appointment with Dr. Ania is a good first step in showing appreciation for your oral health. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania

Dr. Ania’s experience, expertise, and commitment to your oral health can help bring you a smile that exudes confidence, beauty, and well-being. If you are ready to get on the road to better oral health, or if you just want to maintain your already-healthy smile, make an appointment with Dr. Ania and our team today by calling us at (303)-872-9940. Located conveniently in Boulder, CO, we’re here for all of your – and your family’s – oral health needs. 

 

Posted: November 26, 2020 By: Comment: 0

Signs of Mouth Cancer You Might Not Know

Do you know what the signs of mouth cancer are? Mouth cancer develops on any portion of the mouth, including the lips. November is Mouth Cancer Awareness month, and Dr. Ania’s team is here to help you understand what this cancer is, how to look out for it, and what you can do to reduce your risk of developing it. This kind of cancer, like all cancers, can be life threatening without proper prevention and early detection. 

What is Mouth Cancer? 

Mouth cancer, also sometimes referred to as oral cancer, is a type of cancer that is found in the mouth. It can develop in any area of the oral cavity, such as the: 

  • Lips
  • Gums
  • Tongue
  • Inner lining of the cheeks
  • Roof of the mouth
  • Floor of the mouth (under the tongue)

Symptoms of Mouth Cancer 

In the early stages of mouth cancer, you might not be able to notice anything wrong with your mouth at all. However, dentists are trained to catch the early signs that you might miss with your own eyes. As the disease develops, patients can begin noticing symptoms like: 

  • Bleeding in the mouth with no clear cause
  • Loss of feeling in different areas of the mouth
  • Lumps in the mouth that continue to grow 
  • Rough spots on the lips, gums, and other soft tissues of the mouth
  • White or red patches in the mouth
  • Sores on the face, neck, or inside the oral cavity that don’t heal quickly and bleed
  • Changes in voice 
  • Persistent sore throat
  • Weight loss with no clear cause 
  • Difficulty chewing and swallowing 
  • Inability to move the tongue or jaw easily 

Causes and Reducing Your Risk 

While there are some risk factors in your chance of developing cancer that you can’t help — like your age, sex, or race —  others you can. There are certain lifestyle factors that can increase your risk of developing this type of cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, these are the risk factors for developing mouth cancer: 

Tobacco use

Most people diagnosed with this kind of cancer use tobacco. While the risk depends on how long and often the tobacco has been used, smokers are much more likely to develop cancer in the mouth, throat, and lungs than non-smokers. If you still smoke, quitting now can still help reduce your risk. If you have been diagnosed with an oral cancer, it is important to quit smoking, as continuing can increase your risk of a second cancer of developing. 

Excessive alcohol use

If you are an excessive alcohol drinker, you are more likely to develop mouth cancer. In fact, 7 out of 10 patients with oral cancer are heavy drinkers.

HPV infection

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of over 150 viruses. Infection with certain types of HPV can cause forms of cancer, including cancers of the mouth and throat. Most people with HIV infections of the mouth don’t have any symptoms, however, the cancer cases linked to HPV have risen dramatically in the last few decades. 

Gender

This type of cancer is twice as common in men than it is in women, partially due to the fact that men have been more likely to use tobacco and alcohol in the past.

Age

While you can develop cancer at any age, mouth cancers usually take many years to develop and it is not common in young people. Most patients with this condition are older than 55. 

UV light

Being out in the sun without proper sunblock can cause cancers of the lip. 

Poor nutrition

Many studies have found that not eating a healthy diet can increase risk of certain kinds of cancers

Weakened immune system

Oral cavity cancers are more common in those that have weak immune systems. 

Poor oral health

If you have poor overall health of the mouth, teeth, and gums, it can negatively affect your oral cavity and increase your risk of developing mouth cancer. 

Make an Appointment with Dr. Ania 

Your best fight against mouth cancer is early detection. Dr. Ania is trained to detect the early signs and symptoms of mouth cancer. During your comprehensive dental exam, which should happen twice a year, Dr. Ania will thoroughly examine your mouth and look for problems. When you come in for your exam, an oral cancer screening will be done in a matter of minutes. Dr. Ania will look over your teeth, gums, cheeks, tongue, throat and even outside your mouth around your neck and mouth for lumps and signs that something isn’t right. With the right dental and medical care, a dentist can actually help halt the progression of the cancer when they find it. If you notice signs before your next scheduled checkup, call to get an appointment with Dr. Ania sooner: (303)-872-9940. Early detection is key! 

 

Posted: November 20, 2020 By: Comment: 0
replace-missing-teeth-with-dental-implants

Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Implants 

Dental implants are a restorative dentistry option that allows patients to replace missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and perform just like your natural teeth. They are the most effective, predictable, and long-lasting option to replace one or several missing teeth. If you have missing teeth, Dr. Ania can restore your smile with dental implants. 

What are Dental Implants?

In restorative dentistry, we use dental implants to help patients replace their missing teeth with ones that look, feel, and perform like their natural teeth. They are the most effective, predictable, and longest-lasting option to replace one or multiple missing teeth. Unlike a bridge, the implant allows us to treat only the tooth that needs to be treated; there is no need to involve other healthy teeth in the restoration of the unhealthy tooth.

Who Benefits from Dental Implants?

If a patient suffers from periodontal disease, dental implants can be used to assist in rehabilitating the mouth. For patients where dentures, implants can help significantly with comfort and quality of life. 

The ideal candidates for dental implants are those who have generally good oral and overall health. Additionally, the patient will need to have adequate bone in your jaw to help support the implant. The American Academy of Periodontology explains that dental implants are typically the best option for those who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, injury, accident, or other reason. 

What is the Procedure Like?

When you and Dr. Ania decide that dental implants are the best option to restore your smile, you will then begin the process of getting dental implants. These implants are made of a metal post topped by an artificial tooth. Colgate explains that the implant is installed into the gums to keep the structure of the remaining teeth and allow you to continue chewing and biting as normal. 

Further, they explain, this surgery replaces the root area of the missing teeth with metal screw-like posts, which is where the artificial tooth will be placed. The artificial teeth closely resemble your natural teeth, acting just the same and prevent you from needing less-real options, like dentures, or having bridgework done. 

Having this procedure done might need to be completed in multiple steps, depending on your oral health and the type of implant you’re receiving. Colgate provides a brief overview of what you can expect: 

  • Removal of the bad tooth
  • Jawbone is then prepared for surgery, which might include bone grafting 
  • Once the jaw has time to heal, the implant can go into the gum line
  • The jaw will have more time to heal before the abutment (which is the part that screws into the implant) and attaches the artificial tooth on top, marking the end of your implant procedure 

Risks of Dental Implants

As with any procedure, there are things that go into making sure that you have success with it. For implants, there are many different factors that can affect your ability to receive an implant and how long they last. These factors can include:

  • Gum disease. While implants can be a good option for some patients with gum disease, this procedure typically is not good for those with gum disease still active. Gum disease attacks the gums and jaw bone, when it is still an active infection, it could lead to implant failure. 
  • Smoking. If you smoke, you could experience implant failure because it restricts blood flow to the gums, which means you won’t heal as fast. It’s shown, in fact, that smoking with implants can have a failure rate of up to 20%. 
  • Jaw bone. Having your implants take and last means needing to have a sufficient amount of bone to support the implant. Without enough healthy bone, it won’t be possible to place an implant into your jaw. This typically affects patients that have osteoporosis or severe gum disease. 
  • Other medical conditions. The success of dental implants also depends on the status of your overall health. If you have conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes, it could affect how well your jaw heals after the implants are placed. 
  • Dental maintenance. If you won’t practice good oral hygiene after a dental implant is placed, then you will not be a good candidate for the procedure. 

Replace Missing Teeth with Dr. Ania

If you have one or more missing teeth and you are ready to restore your smile, make an appointment with Dr. Ania today. With practicing dentistry and dental implants for many years now, Dr. Ania is more than qualified for the job. Call today: (303)-872-9940. 

 

Posted: November 13, 2020 By: Comment: 0

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