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- Increasing Oral Health Problem May Be A Sign of Al...
- Plan Now To Maximize Dental Insurance Benefits
- 5 Things To Eat For Healthy Teeth
- Headaches? It Could Be Your Jaw
- Heart Disease Risk May Be Reduced By Sleep Apnea T...
- Broken Tooth?
- Cosmetic Dentistry For Those Who Fear The Dentist
- Dental Insurance And Your Treatment
- New Gum Disease Treatment?
- What Causes TMJ Pain?
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Dr. Mogell Dental Blog
Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist
Increasing Oral Health Problem May Be A Sign of Alzheimer'sTuesday, November 17, 2015
According to the British Dental Health Foundation, poor oral health in older patients may be an early sign of dementia.People at the early stages of Alzheimer's may not be able to maintain proper hygiene and may have problems communicating oral health issues to their dentists. "These patients rely on their dental professionals to recognize behavior that is out of the ordinary and that may indicate mental health problems in order to get quick and effective support," said Dr. Nigel Carter of the British Dental Health Foundation.
In all older patients, maintaining a healthy mouth is important. Oral bacteria can move throughout the body causing serious health issues and teeth or gums that are painful may restrict nutrition. Regular monitoring, good home care and continuing dental visits for as long as possible can help.
Please contact Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell at 561-394-9000 today to schedule your next visit. yourdentalblog
Plan Now To Maximize Dental Insurance Benefits
Thursday, October 15, 2015
We are getting close to the end of the year and now is the time to schedule needed dental treatment in order to maximize your dental insurance benefits.Most dental plans offer a maximum dollar amount of coverage each year, by scheduling your appointments appropriately you can take advantage of the maximum coverage from your plan.
Dr. Mogell is an in-network provider for PPO plans with Delta Dental, United Healthcare and Dentemax. We are not an HMO provider for any of these plans.
Our schedule for November and December of 2015 is filling up quickly.
If you have crowns, fillings or other dental care that you have been putting off now is the time to contact our Boca Raton dentist office at 561-394-9000 to schedule your appointment. Our staff will be happy to work with you to maximize your dental insurance benefit.
Labels: crown, replace fillings
yourdentalblog
5 Things To Eat For Healthy Teeth
Monday, October 12, 2015
There is a long list of things that we eat that are bad for our smiles, but there are a lot of things we can eat that can improve the health of our teeth.- Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery are natures toothbrush. Chewing these actually removes plaque from the teeth and stimulates saliva production. Saliva does two things, it washes away debris in the mouth and helps control the bacteria that cause cavities.
- Cheese. Dairy products like cheese are full of calcium, but cheese is great for your smile in another way. It can stop cavities. Certain cheeses, like cheddar, Swiss, mozzarella and Monterey Jack help balance the pH levels in the mouth. Since cavity formation flourishes in an acidic environment this is a huge boost for oral health. But there is more good news about cheese, when the calcium and phosphorous in cheese combine with saliva, the reaction actually restores minerals to the teeth helping them stay strong.
- Almonds pack a huge nutritional boost to teeth. Teeth need a combination of phosphorous for bone formation, vitamin D and magnesium to absorb calcium, vitamin B to prevent mouth sores and vitamins C and potassium to maintain strong gum tissue. Almonds are packed with all of these nutrients.
- Chocolate. But wait, isn't candy bad for teeth? The answer is usually yes because of the sugar but cocoa contains polyphenols that actually protect teeth from decay. Cocoa extracts have been shown to work as well as fluoride to strengthen teeth.
- Tea. A cup of tea is relaxing and it is great for teeth. Black or green tea is a rich source of many micronutrients that reduce gum disease. A 2004 Rutgers University study showed that antioxidants called catechins, found in green tea, reduced gum inflammation.
Please contact the Boca Raton office of cosmetic and general dentist Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell today to find out more about keeping your smile healthy. We can be reached at 561-394-9000.
Labels: gum disease, tooth decay
yourdentalblog
Headaches? It Could Be Your Jaw
Thursday, October 08, 2015
Do you suffer from frequent headaches? Headache is a common symptom for patients who are experiencing temporomandibular joint dysfunction, commonly called TMJ.The jaw joint (TMJ) is one of the most complicated joints in the human body. Not only does it allow the jaw to move forward and backward, but up and down and side to side. This complicated joint is susceptible to damage from accidents, teeth grinding, poor bite and damaging personal habits.
Auto accidents or slip and fall accidents can damage the jaw joint. Many times, this damage will heal with proper care and leave no long term problems.
Patients with an incorrect bite due to old dental work or teeth misalignment can find relief from TMJ pain by correcting these conditions.
Patients who grind their teeth, a condition called bruxism, place a great deal of pressure on the jaw joint. The constant grinding can also crack or break teeth leading to expensive dental restoration. A specially designed orthotic can be used to protect teeth and keep the jaw joint in a position that minimizes stress on the muscles and joint.
Find out how to relieve your headache pain by contacting Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell in Boca Raton, FL today at 561-394-9000. yourdentalblog
Heart Disease Risk May Be Reduced By Sleep Apnea Treatment
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Research had previously shown that people with obstructive sleep apnea have greater activity in the nerves related to stress response -- this can lead to high blood pressure and heart disease. The increase was found to be due to a change in brain stem function caused by sleep apnea.A small study published in the Journal of Neurophysiology found that treating obstructive sleep apnea reduced the nerve activity by restoring the brain stem to normal function. In theory, this should reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure or heart disease. The study only included 13 patients who were treated using CPAP.
While CPAP is the gold standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea, about half of patients cannot tolerate sleeping with the masks and hoses. Most of these patients leave their sleep apnea untreated which can lead to severe health problems.
Oral appliance therapy is a proven method of treating obstructive sleep apnea without the masks and hoses. The oral appliance is only worn during sleep. Oral appliances, also called mandibular advancement devices, work by gently placing the lower jaw in a forward position during sleep which keeps the airway open throughout the night. No more collapsed airway means no more snoring and stoppages of breath.
Find out more about obstructive sleep apnea and your treatment options by contacting the only Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine located in Palm Beach County, Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell. Our office can be reached at 561-394-9000. yourdentalblog
Broken Tooth?
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Patients break teeth in all sorts of ways - sometimes there is a really good story behind the broken tooth. Sometimes it is a fall, sometimes it is a sports injury and other times the tooth has been weakened because of decay or an old filling.How we treat a broken tooth depends on which tooth is broken and how badly it is broken.
Front teeth are the ones that usually break because of accidents. A front tooth with a chip can be repaired with bonding or a dental veneer. Bonding is a less expensive repair but the bonding material can stain. For more serious breaks and if a great deal of tooth structure has broken away then a dental crown may be needed.
Back teeth are likely to break because of biting into something hard. Back teeth also break because their structure has been weakened by large fillings that weaken the structure of the tooth. Often these older fillings have broken down, allowing decay to form under the filling. When these teeth break there is often not enough tooth structure left to "fill" which means a dental crown must be placed.
In some cases, the tooth breaks in such a way that it cannot be saved. In these cases the tooth is removed and replaced using either a dental implant or a bridge. Dental implants have quickly become the restoration of choice for missing teeth because they act and feel just like a natural tooth. We also don't have to touch the adjacent teeth like we do when placing a dental bridge.
Find out more about your options for repairing broken teeth and replacing a missing tooth by contacting cosmetic and general dentist Kenneth A. Mogell, DMD in Boca Raton today at 561-394-9000.
Labels: cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers
yourdentalblog
Cosmetic Dentistry For Those Who Fear The Dentist
Wednesday, September 09, 2015
Lots of people dislike going to the dentist but for about 5% of the population the fear prevents them from seeking the care they need, or want. Dental care that we want usually falls under the heading of cosmetic dentistry - this means using dental veneers, crowns and bleaching to give you a more beautiful smile. Can people who fear the dentist get cosmetic dental treatment?Of course they can!
Patients with milder types of dental fear often find that their fear has disappeared once they form a relationship with a dentist that they feel comfortable with. Other patients need mild medication to allow them to relax during their appointments.
Cosmetic dental treatments can be life-changing. For those in jobs that require public contact a beautiful smile can enhance the ability to close a sale. We see patients shave facial hair that they have worn for years in order to show off their new, confident smile.
Cosmetic dental treatments range from simple whitening procedures to full-mouth restorations - most cases fall on the more conservative end of the spectrum.
Find out what cosmetic dentistry can do for you and your smile, despite your dental fears.
Please contact Boca Raton cosmetic dentist Kenneth A. Mogell, DMD today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your consultation.
Labels: cosmetic dentistry, veneers, whitening
yourdentalblog
Dental Insurance And Your Treatment
Monday, September 07, 2015
Dental insurance is very different from medical insurance. Dental insurance usually has annual limits as to the amount it will cover. Interestingly, these annual maximum amounts haven't changed much over the years. Dental insurance can be a useful tool for partial financing of your dental treatment but it rarely covers 100%.Our practice is currently a provider for Delta Dental PPO, United Healthcare PPO, United Concordia PPO and Dentamax PPO. Dentamax is a provider network that underwrites for Principal, Guardian Assurant and Metlife.
Please remember that dental insurance doesn't cover everything! If you have questions about your coverage, Samantha is very familiar with most of the plans and if she doesn't have the answer, she is really great about getting information from the insurance companies. Getting these answers does take time, so please be patient and she will get back to you with the answer to your question.
Remember that your dental insurance has an annual maximum that they will cover. If you have dental treatment that you have been thinking of putting off until the future, it might make sense to do part of the treatment before the end of this year in order to maximize your insurance benefit.
Please contact our Boca Raton cosmetic dental office at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit.
Labels: dental insurance
yourdentalblog
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
What Causes TMJ Pain?
Wednesday, September 02, 2015
TMJ pain is terrible - headaches, facial pain, jaw soreness, some even experience neck and back pain. Getting a proper diagnosis and treatment for TMJ problems can be problematic.Many patients travel from doctor to doctor for years before discovering that their "migraine" isn't in there head, but rather in their jaw joint.
What causes TMJ pain? There are a lot of answers for this question. Some patients have experienced an accident or fall that caused temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Other patients grind their teeth and caused the joint to become damaged. Arthritis, old dental restorations and a poor bite are a few more reasons that the muscles and jaw joint starts causing discomfort.
Treatment for TMJ dysfunction can vary depending upon the cause of the problem. Old dental restorations that have become loose may need to be replaced. A poor bite may be corrected through dental restorations or orthodontics.
Most cases of TMJ dysfunction can be managed using a combination of a dental device that is designed to place the jaw in the optimal position for relaxation and appropriate home care such as avoiding certain foods or avoiding certain physical actions that might cause muscle spasms or pain.
Find out more about TMJ treatment in Boca Raton and Delray Beach by contacting neuromuscular dentist Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell at 561-394.9000.
Labels: headache, teeth grinding, TMJ
yourdentalblog
Congratulations Samantha! Today I just wanted to share some news that isn't about dentistry - but it is about our office...
You all know our Patient Coordinator, Samantha, whose smiling face greats you when you walk in the door. Next time you see her say congratulations!
Samantha got married!
Are Dental Veneers Right For You?
Monday, August 31, 2015
Dental veneers are an amazing advance in cosmetic dentistry. Cosmetic dentists have been placing dental veneers for many years and we know that they are a long lasting cosmetic option for many patients.Many patients ask about the differences between a dental veneer and a dental crown for cosmetic dentistry. Dental crowns can, and do make teeth more beautiful but they are also a way for dentists to save a tooth that has lost much of its structure due to decay or breakage. Placing a dental crown means removing much of the remaining tooth structure above the gum line and replacing it with an artificial tooth crown or "cap".
A dental veneer, in contrast, is a very thin piece of porcelain and is used to make a tooth cosmetically more pleasing. Placing a dental veneer requires that very little of the underlying tooth be removed. Dental veneers can be used to change the color of teeth or to change the shape of a tooth that is malformed. Cosmetic dentists can even use dental veneers to close wide spaces between teeth and in some cases to correct overlaps. This is also called "instant orthodontics". The actual bite hasn't been changed but the appearance of the smile is transformed.
Porcelain veneers are extremely durable and long lasting - we have patients with dental veneers that were placed over 20 years ago and their smiles are still perfect!
Find out more about dental veneers and how they can change your smile. Please contact Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell DMD PA at 561-394-9000 today to schedule your consultation.
Labels: Boca Raton cosmetic dentist, dental veneers
yourdentalblog
What Do You Hate About Your Smile?
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
Do you have one particular thing you hate about your smile? Are your teeth dingy, stained or yellow? Maybe you never had braces, or your teeth used to be straight but have moved with age. How about teeth that are too short or oddly shaped? Think you are stuck with those -- think again!Labels: cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers
yourdentalblog
Do You Have a Retirement Dental Plan?
Monday, August 24, 2015
My mom and dad have the best retirement dental plan there is - they raised a dentist! All joking aside, once people retire and no longer have employer health and dental benefits they face some choices.Some people are surprised when they sign up for Medicare and discover that it doesn't include dental care. Some of the Medicare Advantage plans offer very limited dental benefits but most retirees pay for dental care out of pocket or purchase an individual dental plan.
Research has shown repeatedly that poor oral health is linked to diabetes, heart disease and more. About 25% of Medicare recipients have no natural teeth which puts them at higher risk for nutritional deficiencies.
As with most things in life - it pays to plan ahead. Hopefully you have been taking great care of your oral health all along -- if so, just keep it up and your oral health problems should remain minimal as you age. Remember that many dental problems are preventable -- keep brushing, flossing and getting regular cleanings.
If you are a few years away from retirement and still have employer dental coverage now is the time to start taking advantage and getting the treatment you have postponed. While most dental insurance plans are pretty limited as to what they will cover on an annual basis, some coverage is better than none. Talk to us about your future plans so we can work together on completing your planned treatment.
Please contact the central Boca Raton dental office of Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your visit.
Labels: Boca Raton cosmetic dentist, dental hygiene, dental insurance
yourdentalblog
Which is Worse - Flossing or Cleaning the Toilet?
Thursday, August 20, 2015
Surprisingly, about 14% of people think that flossing is worse than spending time cleaning the toilet. No wonder over one-quarter of people lie to their dentists about how often they floss!Dentists are all about prevention - if we can keep problems from happening it makes life easier for everyone - especially you! Keeping your mouth healthy does require some sacrifices, including brushing twice each day and flossing once.
Why can't you floss once a week and forget it? It has to do with the gunk you are scraping off your teeth when you floss. That gunk (a technical term) builds up on teeth every day and at first it is soft and sticky and can easily be scraped away. After 24 hours or so, that changes. The gunk becomes hard and then the only way to get it off is to have the dental hygienist remove it.
Why is it important to keep the gunk from hardening and building up? Number one - it would look really nasty after a while. Number two - the bacteria that cause gum disease look upon that hardened gunk like it is a new condo just waiting for them to move in.
Some people just love flossing - but I know they are a minority. The folks that would rather scrub the toilet to avoid flossing... not sure what is going on with them. The majority of us fall into the middle. We will floss when we remember or if it is convenient.
Try keeping the floss out on the bathroom counter or on the nightstand, it might prompt you to remember. Many people find using small brushes (proxy brushes) or floss picks more convenient and comfortable than fighting with a long piece of dental floss.
Whatever works to get you cleaning out the gunk on a daily basis - go for it!
To start out your new regimen with squeaky clean teeth please contact our Boca Raton office at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next appointment with Katie, our wonderful hygienist!
Labels: dental hygiene, flossing, gum disease
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.Labels: Boca Raton cosmetic dentist, gum disease, oral hygiene, tooth decay
yourdentalblog
Strong Muscles, Rotten Teeth
Friday, May 29, 2015
Endurance athletes have always impressed me - it takes a lot of hard work and dedication to become so physically fit. Unfortunately, those strong muscles are often attached to a mouth full of rotten teeth.There was research done a few years ago that showed that Olympic athletes had terrible dental health, but that study didn't really discuss the reasons for the problem. Turns out that lots of athletes have this issue and the cause is some of the products that these athletes use.
We think of energy drinks, energy gels and other energy snacks used by athletes as healthy. In reality, they are full of sugar and acids which wreak havoc on oral health. Problems caused by these substances include loss of tooth enamel, tooth decay and gum disease.
Of course, the energy drinks and energy gels are not just used by elite athletes - they are used by kids on the soccer field and cross-fit enthusiasts but the outcome is the same. Damage to the teeth.
Researchers at the Academy of General Dentistry published a study in 2012 that outlined the dangers of energy drinks with regard to oral health. The study found that the high acidity in the beverages eroded the tooth enamel, the glossy, white, outer layer of the teeth. Without a solid layer of enamel teeth look yellow, they become sensitive and, they are open to bacteria which cause decay.
How can you protect your smile? First, try to avoid the stuff that is causing the problem. If you do consume an energy gel or drink don't brush your teeth right away. I know it sounds crazy, but brushing your teeth right away can actually wear down the softened tooth enamel even more. Simply rinse with water - swish your mouth out well and then drink more water.
If your teeth start to feel sensitive - give our office a call. If the damage to tooth enamel is caught early we can help stop the process and help you keep your beautiful white smile.
Call Mogell Dental Associates in Boca Raton, FL at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit. yourdentalblog
Help! What To Do If You Swallow Your Crown
Tuesday, May 12, 2015
Dental work like crowns and bridges are cemented in place using "permanent" materials, but the mouth is a very unforgiving place. Over time these "permanent" cements may break down and when you bite into that chocolate and caramel candy bar -- off comes the crown!
Zoom! Whitening For A Brighter Smile
Thursday, April 23, 2015
Is the bright, white smile of a few years ago only a memory? You can get that white smile back in a couple of hours using the Zoom! whitening system.
Periodontal Probing
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
I know, periodontal probing sounds like the punch line to a bad joke -- but it is a necessary and vital part of a thorough dental examination.Labels: gum disease
yourdentalblog
Cut Your Health Care Costs
Thursday, March 26, 2015
Heart disease and gum disease are linked and new research suggests a way to cut health care costs if you suffer from both.A study in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine looked at the medical and dental records of people with gum disease and cardiovascular disease or other chronic health problems.
The researchers found that people who had at least one gum disease treatment had lower medical costs and fewer hospital visits compared to those who ignored their gum disease. Just one visit! Patients with heart disease or a history of stroke saw their health care costs reduced 10 to 40 percent.
Gum disease causes inflammation throughout the body. Treating the gum disease reduces this inflammation and the bacterial infection. This seemed to help people respond better to treatments for other health problems.
Preventing gum disease is pretty inexpensive - all you need is a toothbrush, some floss and a visit to your dental hygienist every six months. Once gum disease has taken hold, the cost of treatment can vary depending upon the severity of the disease. The good news today is that it is far easier to treat gum disease and to stop its advance!
Save your smile and save your health care dollars by keeping your gums healthy! Please contact Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell at 561-394-9000 today to schedule your next dental hygiene visit.
Labels: gum disease
yourdentalblog
Cosmetic Dentistry - Choosing the Right Dentist
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Many of us have a smile that we aren't completely happy with. Cosmetic dentistry can drastically change the appearance of a smile in just a couple of visits. Because "cosmetic dentistry" is not a board certified specialty, how do you know which dentist you should choose for this important makeover?
Tooth Fairy's Rates Go Up
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
2014 was a good year for the Tooth Fairy - or more precisely it was a good year if you were a child with a loose tooth!Every year Delta Dental performs the Original Tooth Fairy Poll to see how generous the Tooth Fairy has been during the year.
2014 saw the average gift for a tooth hit a record high of $4.36 versus the $3.50 per tooth in 2013. Southern children saw the largest amounts of cash, receiving $4.16 per tooth while Midwestern kids got about $2.83 on average. Size of the payment also depended on variables like age of the child, whether this was the first tooth lost and, how much spare change the Tooth Fairy had lying around.
Some Tooth Fairy's kept to the dental theme and left toothbrushes, floss or toys instead of cash.
Remember to take your child to the dentist by their first birthday. This ensures that those baby teeth stay healthy until the permanent teeth are ready to come in. Once your child has graduated from the pedodontist (children's dentist) please give us a call to schedule their appointment.
Labels: lost tooth
yourdentalblog
World Oral Health Day March 20th
Thursday, March 19, 2015
If you have recovered from St. Patrick's Day and are looking for something a little healthier to celebrate, how about World Oral Health Day on March 20th?The theme this year is Smile for Life - has a double meaning referring to keeping your smile for your lifetime and celebrating life.
Ok, so this isn't as exciting as green beer, but it is important.
Dentists are all about prevention because most dental disease can be prevented.
The simple acts of brushing, flossing and regular dental hygiene visits can eliminate the chance that small problems can become big ones. While some feel that fluoride is controversial, in the dental world it has proven to both prevent cavity formation and can even help heal teeth with minor damage to the enamel - preventing decay from gaining a larger foothold.
If you don't drink water that contains fluoride ask your dental hygienist about prescription strength fluoride toothpaste and if it might be right for you.
Keep your Smile for Life - don't smoke, avoid soda and other sugary stuff and floss every day! Have a happy World Oral Health Day and, what the heck, maybe we can have that beer anyway.
Labels: tooth decay
yourdentalblog
Sugar and Tooth Decay
Wednesday, March 11, 2015
Today the role of sugar in the formation of tooth decay is obvious - but many years ago the situation was a little different.Recently it was discovered that the sugar industry influenced research into the eradication of dental caries (cavities) in the 1960's and 1970's. The industry helped shift the focus of research from reducing sugar intake as a way to prevent cavities to "alternative" strategies, including a tooth decay vaccine, that still let people eat as much sugar as they wanted. Needless to say, none of these alternatives were successful.You can read an article about this here http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2015/03/11/392092490/how-big-sugar-steered-research-on-a-tooth-decay-vaccine
Sugar is the perfect food for the oral bacteria that cause tooth decay. The bacteria eat the sugar and then create acids that attack the tooth enamel. Since sugar is sticky it tends to adhere to the teeth and isn't washed away by saliva as quickly as other substances. Avoid tooth decay and needing a filling by staying away from sugary stuff and brushing and flossing every day!
Protect your smile and your overall health by reducing sugar consumption. Since we each eat almost 150 pounds of added sugars each year, any reduction will help.
If it has been a while since your last dental checkup or you think you might have a cavity, please contact Dr. Kenneth A. Mogell at 561-394-9000 today. yourdentalblog
High Fracture Risk Linked To Increased Rates Of Gum Disease
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Older women who scored high on the Fracture Assessment Risk Tool (FRAX) may also be at higher risk for gum disease according to an article in the journal Menopause.Researchers from Case Western Reserve University looked used the tool, which takes into account smoking and diabetes, to see if post-menopausal women with high risk of bone fracture also had a higher risk of periodontal disease. The resesarchers looked at 853 women and found that those with a higher FRAX score also were more likely to develop gum disease.
The researchers feel that FRAX results could be used in the future to help predict which women might be more likely to develop gum disease so that they could take action to prevent this outcome.
Gum disease, in most cases, can be avoided. Brushing, flossing (very impotant) and visiting your dental hygienist regularly can keep your gums healthy and avoid tooth loss.
How often should you have your teeth cleaned? For most people with healthy gums, every six months should suffice. However, patients with a history of gum disease, or certain health conditions like diabetes may need to be seen more often. Talk to your dental hygienist about your recall schedule.
Please contact us today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit to our beautiful Boca Raton office. yourdentalblog
What's Living On Your Toothbrush?
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
We don't like to think about it but there are lots of bacteria living in our mouths, and on our toothbrushes!Labels: dental hygiene, toothbrush
yourdentalblog
Dental X-Rays - Safe and Necessary
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Dental x-rays are a safe and effective tool that lets your dentist diagnose decay, cracks and damage to teeth that cannot be seen with the naked eye.Every now and then the issue of radiation exposure in x-rays comes up for discussion. Modern dental radiographs (x-rays) are now digital - this means that the amount of radiation used is minimal and there is no need for a dental dark room with smelly chemicals and a long wait to see the resulting image. Digital images are instantaneous and we can see them on a large screen. These images are a wonderful tool that lets the patient see what the problem might be even though their tooth "feels" fine.
Although radiation exposure is minimal - our patients are still draped over their bodies. A special collar helps protect the thyroid from any exposure.
Even the best dentist can't "see" what is happening inside a tooth without an x-ray. So next time your dental hygienist says it is time for a new set of x-rays remember that they are being taken so that we can prevent small problems from turning into bigger ones!
Keeping your smile healthy is always our goal! yourdentalblog
Saliva Protects Teeth From Decay
Friday, December 12, 2014
For a long time we have known that saliva protects teeth from decay. Recent research from scientists at Harvard and MIT have found that the mucus in saliva actually defends against the bacteria S. mutans, that cause tooth decay.Study author Erica Shapiro Frenkel of Harvard and investigator Katharina Ribbeck, a professor at MIT found that the mucus in saliva don't kill the bacteria or change the levels of the S. mutans bacteria that cause tooth decay. Instead, the mucus in the saliva keeps the bacteria suspended and this reduces their ability to attach to the teeth. "This is particularly significant for S. mutans because it only causes cavities when it is attached, or in a biofilm on the tooth's surface," said Dr. Frenkel.
A biofilm is a sticky layer of microbes that grown on surfaces of teeth. The S. mutans bacteria attaches itself to the teeth by forming a biofilm from sticky substances it secretes. As the bacterial colony grows under the biofilm the acids secreted by the bacteria destroy the tooth enamel, causing cavities.
In the past we thought that killing all the bacteria in the mouth was the best way to prevent cavities. Now we know that many of the bacteria in our mouth's are beneficial and that the best way to preserve oral health is to maintain a healthy balance of good versus bad bacteria.
Patients who suffer from dry mouth due to medical conditions or medications usually see an increase in tooth decay. Saliva substitutes can help protect teeth as can more frequent visits to the dentist for dental hygiene appointments. Talk to your dentist about the best way to protect your smile if you suffer from dry mouth.
Contact us today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit.
Labels: dental 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
No Medicare Coverage For Dental Care - Sleep Apnea Appliances Yes
Thursday, October 02, 2014
Every now and then we get a call from someone who is a Medicare patient, or the caregiver of a Medicare patient asking about dental care. Normal dental care is not a covered service under Medicare. Cleanings, bridges and dentures must all be paid out of pocket or through a separate dental insurance policy.Our office is a Medicare provider for patients with obstructive sleep apnea that can't use CPAP machines. These patients are treated using an oral appliance that allows them to continue breathing throughout the night and avoid the serious health consequences of untreated sleep apnea.
For patients who have regular Medicare plus a supplemental plan, and who meet the criteria set forth by Medicare, there is usually no out-of-pocket cost. Patients who have Medicare Advantage plans are a little more complicated but many times we can get the insurance company to cover treatment with minimal out of pocket expense to the patient.
If you have sleep apnea, or suspect you have sleep apnea and can't deal with using a CPAP machine - give us a call and find out more about oral appliance therapy! Call us today at 561-394-9000. yourdentalblog
EPA Going After Mercury From Dental Amalgams
Friday, September 26, 2014
I saw a report today that the Environmental Protection Agency was proposing that dentists install a new type of amalgam separator in their offices to keep the mercury from old dental amalgams out of the water supply. I have one question - why do they still allow mercury amalgam fillings in the first place?Dental amalgam (those old silver fillings) are about 50% mercury. Mercury is a neurotoxin - bad for everybody. While patients worry about having the stuff in their mouths those of us who spend our days removing old mercury fillings from patients are exposed to even more risk.
Our practice has never used mercury amalgam fillings and we never will. This is for the safety of our patients, our staff and the environment. Mercury amalgam fillings have been around since the 1800's - I think that material science has made some progress in the years since.
New dental restorative materials do not contain mercury and do not expand and contract when exposed to heat/cold, thereby cracking teeth. Tooth colored restorations are more aesthetically pleasing and actually help to strengthen the tooth.
Why do some dentists still place mercury amalgam fillings? Simple - the stuff is cheap and easy to work with. I'm hoping that progressive dentists will finally stand up and find a way to get rid of mercury amalgam use in the United States.
Labels: mercury fillings, tooth decay
yourdentalblog
Do's and Don'ts for TMJ Pain
Wednesday, August 06, 2014
TMJ pain can be excruciating - anyone who suffers from a temporomandibular joint dysfunction will agree. Symptoms include jaw pain, neck pain, headaches and even changes in hearing. There are some simple steps that patients with TMJ pain can take to reduce their inflammation, headaches and discomfort. That being said, there are steps that some people take that make the problem worse!TMJ Pain Do's and Don'ts
DO alternate hot and cold packs on the jaw area when symptoms begin to flair up.
DON'T chew gum. Ever. The act of chewing gum puts stress on the jaw joint.
DO take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. Remember that these medications are tough on the stomach so take them with food.
Speaking of food, DON'T eat anything firmer than cooked pasta when your jaw is inflamed. Even the stuff that is good for you, salad greens and raw veggies, are tough to chew. Stick with a soft diet for a few days to help the jaw joint heal. Even when you aren't experiencing symptoms try to avoid hard and chewy foods like bagels and chewy candy.
DO try to stifle your yawns - opening the jaw wide is not a good idea.
DON'T try to stretch your mouth open to make your jaw "feel better". See the DO above.
TMJ problems are caused by a multitude of reasons. Contact our office at 561-394-9000 to schedule your TMJ consultation today. Together we can discover the reason for your pain and work to alleviate the problem once and for all.
Labels: TMJ
yourdentalblog
Please Welcome Our New Hygienist - Katie
Monday, July 28, 2014
We would like to welcome our new dental hygienist, Katie. Katie is a Florida State grad with experience in many aspects of the operation of a dental office. Our patients who have met Katie have raved about her skills and personality.If if has been a while since your last dental hygiene appointment please contact our office so that we can get you on the schedule.
My daughter Katie, who is a student at Florida State, did express concern that having two Seminole Katie's around might be confusing!
Remember that our dental hygiene schedule fills up quickly so if you need to get your college age kids in while they are on break in December it would be good to schedule soon. Call us at 394-9000.
yourdentalblog
Chronic Gum Disease Linked to Atherosclerosis
Thursday, July 24, 2014
A recent study co-authored by Dr. Richard Darveau of the University of Washington has shown how the pathogen responsible for gum disease can evade the immune system and cause inflammation and damage in the heart. Atherosclerosis is the narrowing and hardening of the arteries in the heart."We had published earlier that this mechanism could be used by P. gingivalis to evade host detection, and this paper is the first to demonstrate it in an animal model of disease," said Dr. Darveau.
Labels: dental hygiene, gum disease
yourdentalblog
Brush or Floss First?
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Is it better to brush first or floss first?Serious connoisseurs of oral healthcare know that it is better to floss before you brush. Flossing first removes plaque and food debris that can block the cleansing and protective action of your fluoride toothpaste.
Does it make a HUGE difference? Most dentists and hygienists will tell you - we're just happy that you floss once a day no matter when you do it. You can floss at breakfast, in the car at stoplights or at your desk after lunch -- just floss!
If you notice your floss feeling a little "bumpy" around the bottom of certain teeth it means that plaque has started to build up. Some people form plaque more quickly than others. If this happens to you please contact us at 561-394-9000 so we can schedule a dental hygiene appointment as soon as possible.
Keep smiling!
Labels: dental hygiene
yourdentalblog
Smile and Feel Happier Did you know that turning that frown upside down and forcing yourself to smile can make you feel happier?
Sounds a little crazy but it seems to be true.
Paul Ekman, PhD, is a psychologist who is an expert in facial expressions taught himself to arrange his facial muscles into certain expressions. He was surprised to discover that he actually felt the emotions that matched the facial expression he was making.
To confirm his theory he did a study on college students and found that they felt happy when they smiled - fake smile or real smile!
What an easy way to make your day better - like they say "Fake it until you make it".
If you aren't smiling because you are unhappy with the appearance of your teeth then dental veneers are an easy way to give you the smile you've always wanted. Veneers can be used to make a crooked smile look nice and straight or to give discolored teeth a beautiful, natural looking white shade.
Call us today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your consultation. yourdentalblog
Oral Cancer Strikes Baseball Great
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Hall-of-Fame baseball player Tony Gwynn's death from mouth cancer has renewed calls to end the use of chewing tobacco from its traditional place in the game.Gwynn was only 54 and he had two surgeries to remove malignancies from his right cheek, where he said he would hold the chewing tobacco while he played.
Nearly 40,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer in the US this year and only 50% will survive 5 years or longer. Why are the statistics so dismal for oral cancer? Mainly because oral cancers aren't usually diagnosed until they are at an advanced stage.
Did you know that oral cancer screenings are a regular part of your dental examination? While we are poking around in your mouth we are doing more than looking at the condition of your teeth. Oral cancer screening include a visual examination of all of the surfaces of the mouth, including the cheeks and tongue. We will also manually "feel" for abnormal spots and lumps.
If there is anything that looks suspicious you will be referred to an oral surgeon for another opinion and possible biopsy, although this is rare.
The risk factors for oral cancer include not only chewing tobacco, but smoked tobacco products as well. Oral cancers used to be seen primarily in older men who smoked and drank alcohol but there has been a surge in cases among younger people over the past several years. This increase in younger oral cancer patients has been linked to infection with the HPV virus.
Protect yourself by maintaining a healthy diet, avoid tobacco use and visit your dentist regularly to get those oral cancer screenings! Contact us today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your next visit.
Labels: dental examination, oral cancer
yourdentalblog
Happy Father's Day!
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!One thing that dentists know about dads, and men in general, is that the women in their lives visit the dentist more often and on a more regular basis. Considering the link between gum disease and heart disease these statistics need to change.
I know, it is tough to carve time out of a work day to go and get your teeth cleaned. Remember that our first appointment of the day is 8:00 AM! You can start your day with a clean, fresh mouth and make it to the office.
I'm sure everyone loved the tie/barbecue apron/shirt that they got as a Father's Day gift. The best gift you can give yourself, and your family, is keeping healthy so they have you around to celebrate many, many more days like this.
Contact our office at 561-394-9000 today to book your next visit. We look forward to seeing you!
Labels: dental hygiene, gum disease
yourdentalblog
The Scoop On Dental Implants
Saturday, June 14, 2014
One of the most amazing advances in dentistry has been the dental implant.Replacing a lost tooth used to mean a bridge or partial denture - both of which meant damaging the healthy adjacent teeth so the bridge would have something to attach to. No more!
Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots and can be used to replace just one tooth or can be used to anchor a full set of dentures. A tooth that has been replaced with a dental implant supported crown feels and looks just like a natural tooth. Dentures are anchored in place - no more slipping and slurring your words.
The implant itself is basically a tiny screw that is implanted into the jaw. After the implant is placed a special type of implant crown is placed.
I have an implant in my own mouth and I never give it a second thought - and no one can tell it is an implant and it is right up front where you can see it!
There are all sorts of reasons that a tooth can be lost - accident, extensive decay or damage under old dental work, etc., but replacing that tooth with a dental implant is a terrific option.
If you have lost a tooth or are in danger of losing a tooth, ask us about dental implants. Contact Dr. Mogell for more information at 561-394-9000.
Labels: dental implant, lost tooth
yourdentalblog
University of Florida Study Links Gum Disease and Heart Disease I went to dental school at the University of Florida (even though I'm a Seminole at heart). A new study from the University of Florida shows that the same bacteria that cause gum disease also promotes heart disease - a discovery that could change the way heart disease is diagnosed and treated.
Irina M. Velsko, a graduate student in the UF College of Medicine presented the data, saying "We report evidence that introduction of oral bacteria into the bloodstream in mice increased risk factors for atherosclerotic heart disease. Our hope is that the American Heart Association will acknowledge causal links between oral disease and increased heart disease. That will change how physicians diagnose and treat heart disease patients."
Almost half of all adults have some form of gum disease and heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. Hopefully this study will help end the separation between oral health and systemic health - after all the mouth is the gateway to the body!
Gum disease is caused by bacteria and can be prevented, or if gum disease exists, it can be treated.
Keep your heart healthy - eat right, exercise regularly and, easiest of all, visit your dental hygienist every six months for a thorough cleaning and examination.
Let us help you get your gum health back on track - contact us today at 561-394-9000 to schedule your appointment.
Labels: dental hygiene, gum disease
yourdentalblog
Top and Bottom States For Dental Health
Thursday, June 05, 2014
- Mississippi (88.4)
- Louisiana (74.6)
- West Virginia (70.2)
- Tennessee (67.0)
- Alabama (62.4)
- Connecticut (9.3)
- Minnesota (13.9)
- New Jersey (15.8)
- Massachusetts (17.6)
- Maryland (20.0)
Caring For Your Oral Appliance
Friday, March 07, 2014
- Please be sure to
clean the appliance entirely, including around the adjustment screw
located on the side of the appliance.
(561) 353-5252 to schedule an appointment.
Kenneth A. Mogell D.M.D.
We Make Beautiful Smiles a Reality in Boca Raton.
2900 North Military Trail
Suite 212
Boca Raton, FL 33431
Ph: 800.786.1497
Fx: 561.988.1102