Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

New Gum Disease Treatment?

Friday, September 04, 2015

When you think of blueberries and teeth, you usually think about purple stains and the need to brush with a whitening toothpaste. If researchers have their way, we may soon think of blueberries as an innovative new gum disease treatment.

Gum disease is very common and severe cases call for treatment using antibiotics. Gum disease and gingivitis result from the build-up of dental plaque on teeth. Dental plaque is a sticky biofilm containing bacteria that forms on teeth. If the plaque isn't removed in a timely manner it becomes a hard substance called tartar. Only a dental cleaning can remove tartar and stop the infection process.

Prevention of gum disease and avoiding antibiotic use is in everyone's best interest so researchers from the Universite' Laval in Canada looked at blueberry polyphenols, which are known to protect plants against some diseases. Using extracts from the wild lowbush blueberry they were able to stop bacteria from growing and forming biofilms. The tests showed that the blueberry polyphenols blocked inflammation on a molecular level.

The research team is now in development of a device that could slowly release these extracts after a deep cleaning to treat gum disease, much like antibiotics are now used.

Keeping your gums healthy is key to maintaining good overall health throughout our lives. Gum disease and bacteria have been linked to heart disease, diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.

Find out more about healthy gums and a healthy body by contacting Mogell Dental Associates at 561-394-9000 today.

Labels: gum disease, oral hygiene

yourdentalblog

Special Dental Health Challenges for Women

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

It is a good thing that studies have shown that women tend to visit the dentist more often than men -- women have special dental health challenges that men don't face. Because women's bodies go through major hormonal changes throughout their lifetime they are at increased risk for periodontal disease and other problems.

Fluctuations in hormone levels have been shown to increase risk for gum disease. For women, hormonal changes begin a puberty and continue every month. Pregnancy and menopause bring more changes. These fluctuations cause changes in the mouth that allow bacteria to grow and enter the bloodstream.

During pregnancy hormones increase and the severity of dental problems can intensify as a result. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should visit their dentist to ensure gum health and to make sure teeth are cavity free. Almost half of pregnant women experience pregnancy gingivitis, beginning in the 2nd or 3rd month of pregnancy. This condition is uncomfortable, but if gums were previously healthy, usually resolves with good oral care. Severe gum disease has been linked to pre-term birth so don't be surprised if your obstetrician asks about your dental visits.

Later in life, menopause presents its own challenges for women's oral health. Tastes can change and decreasing estrogen levels can cause dry mouth. These changes also increase risk for bone density changes. Keep an eye out for gum recession which can be a sign of bone loss in the jaw. Receding gums can also cause tooth sensitivity and those teeth may be more prone to decay.

Most women can maintain good oral health despite these challenges. Brushing, flossing and regular dental visits can stop small problems from turning into larger ones. If it has been a while since your last visit, please contact our Boca Raton dental office at 561-394-9000 today to schedule your appointment.

Labels: Boca Raton cosmetic dentist, gum disease, oral hygiene, tooth decay

yourdentalblog

Dental Insurance? Don't Forget To Use Benefits Before Year End

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Do you have dental insurance? Call us as soon as possible so we can help you maximize your insurance benefits. Year end appointments fill up fast and we are closed between Christmas and New Year's to allow our Team members time with their families!

Dr. Mogell is now an in-network provider for the following plans: Cigna, United Healthcare, United Concordia, Delta Dental, Dentamax (includes Principal, Guardian, Assurant and Metlife and Lincoln Financial). We are also active with Aetna.

Most of us are walking around with dental problems that we have been putting off - please call Samantha at 561-394-9000 and she can check your benefits for you. We still have hygiene appointments available with Katie during November and December.

Dental insurance typically allows a certain dollar amount of care during each calendar year. If you don't use the benefit it is lost as of December 31st. January 1 starts a new year and a new benefit period so planning your care is important.

Contact the office today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit.

Labels: Boca Raton cosmetic dentist, dental insurance, oral hygiene

yourdentalblog

Body and Mouth Connection

Thursday, December 26, 2013

The mouth is the gateway to the body and researchers keep discovering more links between oral health and overall health.

Diabetes and gum disease often go hand in hand. In a catch-22 relationship, patients with diabetes are more likely to develop gum disease and diabetic patients who have gum disease have a harder time controlling their blood sugar.

People with gum disease are also more likely to have heart disease. Researchers believe this is caused by the inflammation from the gum disease wreaking havoc in other parts of the body, including the arteries. 91% of people with heart disease have gum disease.

Treating existing gum disease has been shown to reduce the pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Both osteoporosis and severe gum disease cause bone loss and some studies have suggested that women with osteoporosis have gum disease more often than those who do not.

The bacteria from gum disease may make pneumonia and other lung conditions more serious and some studies have even linked obesity to gum disease. It seems that gum disease gets worse much more quickly in the presence of high body fat.

Taking good care of your oral health means more than just a pretty smile - it means a healthier you! Remember to brush and floss every day and visit your dental hygienist regularly. For those with healthy gums a visit every six months should be fine.

If you have a compromised immune system, are diabetic or if you have active gum disease then you will probably need to visit your hygienist more often to keep your gums healthy.

Schedule your next visit by contacting Boca preventative dentist Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell today at 561-394-9000.

Labels: gum disease, oral hygiene

yourdentalblog

Diabetics Who Treat Gum Disease Save $

Friday, March 30, 2012

Diabetics and gum disease have a complex relationship. Diabetics have a higher risk of developing gum disease in the first place. On the flip side, having periodontal disease causes diabetic people to have a much harder time controlling their blood sugar levels which can lead to complications of their diabetes.

The American Association for Dental Research showed that patients with diabetes who have their periodontal disease treated are less likely to see a physician and less likely to be hospitalized. The patients who got periodontal treatment also cost the healthcare system $1800 less per patient per year than those who didn't get treatment.

A surprise for the researchers was the reduction in the number of physician visits for the patients who treated their periodontal disease. "The doctors felt they did not need to see these patients" said Dr. Marjorie Jeffcoat. She continued "The other thing that was a big surprise was that the effect was maintained over a three year period."

Studies like these show that maintaining a healthy smile helps your overall health in ways we are only beginning to understand. Patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and others can all benefit from improved periodontal health. If it has been a while since your last hygiene appointment or checkup please contact Kenneth A. Mogell, DMD, PA serving Boca Raton and Palm Beach at 561-394-9000.

Labels: diabetes, gum disease, oral hygiene

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.

Fruits Reduce Gum Disease in Seniors

Thursday, March 08, 2012

A Veterans Affairs dental study followed healthy male military vets dental records and found that older men who ate more high fiber fruits were less likely to have gum disease. According to the study each serving of high fiber fruit was linked to a 24% lower risk of bone loss associated with receding gums and a 30% reduction in lost teeth.

The fruits that gave the men protection were apples, bananas and prunes which are easy to add to the average diet even in South Florida. About 10% of adults in the U.S. have moderate to severe gum disease but that rate goes up to about 20% for people over age 75. Because poor oral health has been linked to heart disease, stroke, diabetes and respiratory disorders it is important for older patients to maintain healthy gums.

Dietary fiber does wonderful things for our bodies including controlling blood sugar and lowering blood pressure - both of which are linked to gum disease. Maintaining good oral health includes brushing and flossing and visiting your dental hygienist for a professional cleaning. While six months between appointments may keep gums healthy for younger patients, many older individuals require more frequent visits to keep gum disease at bay.
Schedule your next dental hygiene appointment by contacting Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell today at 561-394-9000.

Labels: oral hygiene

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.

Fuzzy Feeling Teeth?

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Fuzzy kittens like Nikita (on the right) are cute. Fuzzy teeth are not so cute. Why do your teeth feel fuzzy sometimes and how can you prevent it?

Dental plaque is the reason your teeth feel like they are wearing socks. What is dental plaque? Well, here are the facts on plaque and how it affects your oral health.

Plaque is a colorless, sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Plaque forms when foods containing carbohydrates come in contact with our teeth. When we eat something containing carbohydrates like sugar or starch, the bacteria that live in our mouths have a party.

The carbs serve as food for the oral bacteria and a by-product of the bacterial feeding frenzy are acids. These acids can destroy tooth enamel leading to cavities and the plaque can also form under the gum line damaging the gums and breaking down the bone that supports the teeth.

Preventing plaque means keeping up with your oral hygiene. You have to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Flossing is not optional, to keep bacteria in check you must floss at least once a day between all teeth. Professional dental cleanings need to be scheduled every six months (more often if you have gum disease).
Eating a healthy diet and limiting snacking can also help keep plaque from taking over your teeth. Raw vegetables, yogurt, cheese and fruit are all healthy choices that also great for your smile.

If your teeth are feeling "fuzzy" it is time to make the call. Contact us today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit to Dr. Mogell's South Palm Beach County office.

Labels: oral hygiene

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.

Choosing A Toothbrush

Friday, October 14, 2011

Not too long ago the choice in the toothbrush aisle was limited to the color handle you wanted. Now toothbrushes come in all shapes and sizes. How do you know which one to choose?

First thing to look for in a toothbrush is the bristles. Don't ever purchase a brush with bristles that are marked "Hard". Hard bristle brushes are likely to damage your gums and teeth while brushing and, while a stiff bristle brush is great for cleaning your floor, you want something gentler for your mouth.

Another choice in toothbrushes today is the material the bristles are made of. While natural bristles may be best for a hairbrush they aren't the best choice for your toothbrush. These brushes tend to wear out faster and cost more than nylon bristle brushes. There hasn't been much research done on their effectiveness so until more data is in you are better off with nylon bristles.

Toothbrush heads used to be pretty much one standard size. Not anymore - heads are made in almost every conceivable shape and size. The decision here should depend on your mouth - if you have a very small mouth that large headed toothbrush won't be very comfortable for you to use. Choose a size that you think will be a good "fit" and you are more likely to spend the correct amount of time brushing.

Toothbrush handles have also gotten fancier. While the colors and styling may draw your eye, you should really be looking for a brush that will fit comfortably in your hand. Many brushes now have non-slip surfaces which are helpful if you suffer from arthritis or another condition that affects your grip.

You should replace your toothbrush every three months or when the bristles begin to show wear. The most important choice you make about your new toothbrush is using it! Remember to brush three times each day and don't forget the floss. Proper home care can help you avoid gum disease!

Please contact our Boca Raton, FL office at 561-394-9000 today to schedule your dental hygiene appointment. Working as a team we can help you (and your new toothbrush) keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Labels: oral hygiene, toothbrush

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.