Jon Frankel Dentistry

Category Archive: Dental Anxiety

  1. Back to School Dental Care: Teaching Kids Healthy Habits for a Bright Smile!

    As summer comes to an end and the back-to-school season begins, it’s the perfect time to instill healthy dental habits in kids to ensure their smiles shine brightly through the year. Good oral hygiene not only supports their overall health but also boosts their confidence and self-esteem. Frankel Dentistry wants to help all our NW Ohio families care for their oral health and share their smiles confidently with their friends and peers. Here are some essential tips for parents to help teach our little ones the importance of maintaining excellent dental care during the school year.

    Brushing and Flossing!

    Start the day off strong by encouraging kids to brush their teeth for at least two minutes after breakfast and before bedtime. If brushing is a breeze, introduce flossing! Flossing removes plaque around and between teeth. Did you know if you skip out on flossing, you miss out on cleaning 40% of your tooth’s surface area.

    Choose Teeth-Friendly Snacks:

    Teaching kids to make smart snack choices can help them better care for their dental health. Try snacks like fresh fruits, veggies, yogurt, and cheese instead of sugary treats and sticky candies.

    Pack a Tooth-Friendly Lunch:

    When packing lunches incorporate dental-friendly items such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and whole-grain crackers. Avoid sugary drinks and try milk or water instead.

     

    Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!

    Encourage your kids to drink water throughout the day. Water not only keeps them hydrated but also helps wash away bacteria and acid that can lead to tooth decay.

    Regular Dental Checkups:

    Schedule with us! Schedule regular dental visits for your little ones. We recommend bi-annual visits to the dentist to maintain strong oral health habits and catch any potential dental issues early on and ensure a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles.

    Is Your Child an All-Star? Consider a mouth guard!

    If your child participates in sports, ensure they wear a properly fitted mouth guard to protect their teeth from any injuries that could happen on or off the field during games and practices. One of the best parts about sports is the sugary electrolytes drinks we love to refuel with. Excessive sugar can lead to tooth decay, so it’s better to opt for healthier alternatives like water or diluted fruit juices.

     

    As we gear up for the back-to-school season, let’s prioritize our children’s dental health by teaching them healthy habits that will last a lifetime. By incorporating these simple tips into their daily routine, we can ensure that their smiles stay bright, confident, and healthy throughout the school year. A healthy mouth promotes a healthy body! Better dental health practices could maybe even mean less sick days! Remember, instilling good oral hygiene practices set the foundation for a lifetime of dental health!

    Due for a cleaning or looking for a new family dentist? Frankel Dentistry is happy to care for you and your little ones. With two offices, flexible hours, gentle hygienists, and more, we’re here to create the best dental care experience.

    Call today to schedule or visit us online at www.jonfrankeldentistry.com

    Toledo: 419-474-9611

    Maumee: 419-893-0221

     

     

  2. Frankel Dentistry: Where Your Dental Anxiety is Understood and the Best Dental Care Experience Awaits!

    Visiting the dentist can be an anxiety-inducing experience for many people, leading them to avoid crucial dental care altogether. At Frankel Dentistry, we understand and empathize with your dental anxiety. Our mission is to provide a warm and welcoming environment where you feel comfortable and at ease. With a team of highly, skilled professionals, state-of-the-art technology, and a patient-centric approach, we are proud to offer the best dental care experience that caters to your unique needs.

    Empathy and Understanding:

    1 in 3 patients struggle with dental anxiety. At Frankel Dentistry, we recognize dental anxiety is real and can be triggered by fear of pain, past negative experiences, or uncertainty about treatment. Our compassionate team takes the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and tailor our approach to provide you with personalized care. We always want to create a safe space where you feel supported throughout your dental journey.

    Gentle and Pain-Free Dentistry:

    We prioritize your comfort during every step of your dental treatment. Our skilled dentists practice the latest techniques and advancements in dentistry to ensure a gentle and pain-free experience. Team members regularly attend continued education classes to better serve patients. When it comes to pain we offer a variety of numbing and sedation options, especially for those with sever anxiety. We are committed to making your visit as comfortable as possible.

    Comprehensive Range of Services:

    At Frankel Dentistry, we offer a comprehensive range of dental services to address all your oral health needs. Whether you require a routine check up, cosmetic dentistry to enhance your smile, or restorative treatments like dental implants, our team has the expertise to deliver top-notch care. We also have specialist in office to help care for unique or specialized treatment.

    State-of-the-Art Technology:

    We believe in staying at the forefront of dental technology to provider you with the best care available. Our dental office is equipped with state of the art equipment including digital x-rays, intraoral cameras, and laser dentistry to ensure accurate diagnoses and efficient, minimally invasive treatments.

    Relaxing Atmosphere:

    We take pride in cultivating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere in our dental office. From soothing décor to comfortable waiting areas, we aim to alleviate while visiting the dentist.

    Patient Education:

    At Frankel Dentistry, we want to empowering our patients through education. This is why we offer complimentary consultations. We want to take time to explain treatment options, procedures, and proper oral care techniques, so you can make informed decision about your dental health. We also understand dental care can be a significant financial investment. TO make our services accessible to everyone, we offer care credit and work with a variety of dental insurance plans.

    Serve All, Always Better. At Frankel Dentistry we are passionate about providing a dental care experience that prioritizes your comfort and well-being. From understand and empathizing with dental anxiety to offering a wide range of services with the latest technology, specialists, and compassionate team members, we strive to deliver the best possible care for each patient. Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from achieving optimal oral health and a confident smile. Come experience the difference at Frankel Dentistry. Your smile deserves the best, and that’s precisely what we’re here to provide, the Best Dental Care Experience!

    Due for a cleaning or looking for a new dental practice? Let us create the best dental care experience for you and your family. We have two offices, flexible hours, evenings, and weekends.

    Call today to schedule.

    Toledo: 419-474-9611

    Maumee: 419-893-0221

     

  3. Struggling with Tooth Sensitivity?

    Tooth sensitivity can be a frustrating and uncomfortable dental issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Sharp, sudden pain that accompanies the consumption of hot or cold foods and beverages can put a damper on daily life. While there are various causes behind tooth sensitivity, it’s important to address any underlying problems rather than simply endure the discomfort. Let’s dive deeper into tooth sensitivity and how to help!

    Tooth sensitivity can be a result of many factors such as:

    Tooth enamel erosion: The protective layer of enamel can wear down over time due to aggressive brushing, acidic foods, or acid reflux. As the enamel thins, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, leading to sensitivity.

    Dental cavities: Cavities compromise the integrity of the tooth structure, causing sensitivity when the nerve endings are exposed to stimuli.

    Gum recession: Receding gums expose the tooth roots, which lack the protective enamel covering. The roots contain tiny tubules that connect to nerve endings, making them more susceptible to sensitivity.

    six tips on how to help sensitive teeth.

    Of course we recommend speaking with your dental care provider to find any underlying health concerns but if you can’t get into the office soon enough here are some tips to  help:

    Use a soft-bristled toothbrush: Brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush and adopting a gentle brushing technique can prevent further enamel erosion and gum recession.

    Use desensitizing toothpaste: Specialized toothpaste for sensitive teeth contains compounds that help block nerve sensations and provide relief. Regular use can help reduce sensitivity over time.

    Avoid acidic and sugary foods: Acidic foods and beverages, as well as excessive sugar consumption, can contribute to enamel erosion and tooth decay. Limiting their intake can protect your teeth from further damage.

    Wear a mouthguard at night: If tooth sensitivity is caused by teeth grinding or clenching, wearing a mouthguard at night can help minimize the pressure on your teeth and prevent enamel wear.

    It’s important to note that these are all temporary fixes, it’s crucial to schedule regular dental visits with our team at Frankel Dentistry to address the underlying causes of tooth sensitivity! A dental professional can identify any dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or enamel erosion, and develop a personalized treatment plan. Routine dental cleanings and examinations are essential for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing further complications! We’d be happy to take a look at your smile! 

    Call today to schedule or visit us online!

    Toledo:419-474-9611   Maumee: 419-893-0221

    www.jonfrankeldentistry.com

  4. Your Pet’s Dental Health Matters!

    Taking care of your pet’s oral health is an important part of their overall well-being. A healthy mouth, promotes a healthy body! Just like humans, pets can suffer from a variety of dental issues, including plaque, tartar, and periodontal disease, if their oral health isn’t properly maintained.

    First, let’s talk about why pet oral health is so important. Not only can poor oral health lead to bad breath, but it can also create a number of other problems for your pet. For instance, bacteria can easily enter the bloodstream through the gums and cause infections in other organs. This can lead to a variety of illnesses and can even be life-threatening. That’s why it’s so important to practice good oral hygiene for your pet.

    Let’s talk about how to keep your pet’s mouth clean and healthy. One of the best ways to do this is by brushing your pet’s teeth regularly. You can purchase special pet toothbrushes and toothpaste at most pet stores. It’s also important to feed your pet a healthy, balanced diet and give them plenty of chew toys. This will help remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.

    Finally, it’s also important to take your pet to the vet for regular checkups. While Frankel Dentistry does not care for animals, your vet can check your pet’s teeth and gums to make sure they are healthy and can provide advice on the best way to maintain your pet’s oral hygiene! Let’s help your best friend have a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles!

    We’ve said it time and time again but a healthy mouth promotes a healthy body! The same goes for the pets you love! Good oral hygiene is an important part of your pet’s overall health and well-being.

  5. February is Children’s Dental Health Month!

    Dental health is an important topic for parents to consider when it comes to their children. Taking care of a child’s oral health can start even before they have their first tooth. It’s important to introduce healthy habits early on to ensure that children have strong, healthy teeth and gums and a lifetime of healthy smiles.

    First and foremost, it’s important to schedule regular dental visits for your child. These visits should start when the first tooth appears and continue throughout their life. During the visits, the dentist will be able to provide advice on oral care, assess the condition of the teeth and gums, and offer preventive treatments such as fluoride applications. Frankel Dentistry offers look and learn appointments to help your child acclimate to the dental office environment while also ensuring their oral health is on the right track.

    At home, parents should help their children develop good brushing habits. Ideally, children should brush their teeth twice a day for two minutes each time, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste. Parents should help children aged two and under brush their teeth, and should supervise brushing for children up to the age of six.

    In addition to brushing, children should also floss their teeth every day. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from in between teeth, which helps prevent the buildup of cavities and gum disease. It’s important to teach children the proper way to floss, as incorrect technique can do more harm than good.

    Finally, it’s important to limit the amount of sugary snacks and drinks that children consume. Sugary foods and drinks can increase the risk of cavities, so it’s best to limit their intake. Replace sugary snacks with healthy alternatives such as fruits, vegetables, and plain yogurt.

    By following these tips, parents can help ensure that their children have healthy teeth and gums for life. Let’s summarize! Regular visits to the dentist, good brushing habits, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks and drinks are all important components of a good dental health routine.

  6. TMJ Troubles? Let’s Talk Botox.

    Wearing down your smile by grinding your teeth throughout the night? Unbearable migraines as a result from uncontrollable clenching?
    Our Maumee office, Frankel and Puhl Dentistry could have a solution for you! Dr. Amber Puhl, DDS is now administering Botox to help treat TMJ and bruxism.

    Not sure what TMJ is? Let us break it down for you.

    The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts like a sliding hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. You have one joint on each side of your jaw. TMJ disorders, a type of temporomandibular disorder or TMD, can cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. Over 80% of patients suffer from some sort of TMJ disorder.
    Woman suffering from jaw pain and aches from TMJ.

    What causes TMJ?

    TMJ can be the result of a number of factors. Arthritis, jaw injury, teeth clenching and/or grinding all contribute to TMJ development. During early signs of teeth grinding and clenching we recommend visiting your dentist regarding night guards to protect your enamel and your jaw.

    Signs and symptoms of TMJ disorders may include:

    • Pain or tenderness of your jaw
    • Pain in one or both of the temporomandibular joints
    • Aching pain in and around your ear
    • Difficulty chewing or pain while chewing
    • Aching facial pain
    • Locking of the joint, making it difficult to open or close your mouth
    Dr. Puhl and Dr. Frankel smiling

    Dr. Amber Puhl, DDS and Dr. Jon Frankel, DDS

    Botox Can Help!

    You have undoubtedly heard of Botox injections used to enhance lips, cheeks, or to smooth out wrinkles across the forehead or around the eyes. But you may not be familiar with Botox treatment for TMJ. When the Botox is injected into the temporalis and masseter muscles, it limits muscle function and relieves facial pain, headaches, and swelling associated with TMJ.

    Always Better! Frankel and Puhl Dentistry is adding Botox as a treatment option for patients who suffer from TMJ disorders. Continuing to learn and grow to best serve our patients is very important to us. After training and continued education with the American Academy of Facial Esthetics,  our very own Dr. Amber Puhl, DDS will be offering botox treatment!

    Struggling with tension headaches and jaw pain from TMJ? Botox could be your answer. Visit us online or call today to schedule an appointment.

  7. Afraid of the Dentist?

    Afraid of the Dentist?

    Afraid of the Dentist?

     

    It is common for people to fear the dentist. According to Cleveland Clinic 36% of the adults in the U.S. fear the dentist. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22594-dentophobia-fear-of-dentists#:~:text=How%20common%20are%20dentophobia%20and,in%20females%20than%20in%20males.

    Find a dentist who listens.

    At Frankel Dentistry we have found that understanding, compassion, and communication are life changing for patients with dental fear. Patients are offered complimentary consultations to design a plan toward dental health. Oral and I.V. sedation are options for those with more severe anxiety. Many times, patients are gently directed through their treatment and find their fear slips away.

    Complimentary Consultation

     

    The first step toward dental health can be a tour of the office. Frankel Dentistry has systems in place to introduce you to your dental care providers before treatment begins.

    A healthy mouth promotes a healthy body. Regularly scheduled visits allow small issues to be addressed before they become big problems.

    Don’t let dental fear steal your smile or jeopardize your overall health. Find a dentist who understands dental anxiety.

     

  8. Growing our team one smile at a time.

    July is filled with dozens of reasons to smile. This month we smile because Frankel Dentistry is welcoming a new doctor. We are overjoyed to present Dr. Erin Waples D.D.S!

    Erin Waples, DDS.

    An Ohio native and former Ohio State Buckeye! Dr. Waples was born and raised in the small village of Mogadore in Northeastern Ohio. She grew up loving soccer, track, and the great outdoors, spending dozens of weekends camping and hiking with her family. 

    She attended the University of Akron where she studied Biomedical Engineering. She knew she wanted a fulfilling, impactful career while still being able to maintain a work life balance. Post graduation she began shadowing different career fields and discovered her passion for dentistry. “There is something so special about working with your hands, touching the lives of patients, and creating long lasting relationships and friendships.” 

    A young Erin Waples pursued her dental degree at THE Ohio State University. She spent her time in Columbus playing intramural soccer, attending Buckeye games with friends, and serving the community through the Delta Sigma Delta organization.

    Dr. Waples is special to us because she is special to someone here! While at THE Ohio State University she met her fiance, fellow Frankel and Puhl dentist, Dr. Westmeyer. Dr. Westmeyer is also an OSU alumni and has been a part of our Maumee team since 2019. These two are avid adventurers! They enjoy camping, hiking, snow sports, and exploring national parks and new destinations! In October 2021 Dr. Westmeyer popped the question and now they patiently plan and await their big day. In the meantime these two are thrilled and grateful to serve the NWO community through their passions. 

    Frankel Dentistry is thrilled to have Dr. Waples a part our team. We cannot wait to Change Lives a Smile at a Time with her.

  9. Struggling with Tooth Sensitivity?

    How often do you feel oral pain after enjoying a bite of your summer sundae on a nice July night? Or struggle to enjoy a nice hot cup of soup? You could be struggling with tooth sensitivity. 

    What is tooth sensitivity?

    Tooth sensitivity is pain or discomfort as a response to hot and cold stimuli. This can be anything from hot foods to cold air.

    What causes tooth sensitivity?

    Let’s look at the anatomy of a tooth. The strong outer layer of a tooth is called enamel. The more enamel is worn down the more sensitive the tooth becomes. 

    There are many factors which could contribute to tooth sensitivity such as:

    -brushing too hard

    -Acidic foods

    -Teeth grinding

    -Tooth decay

    -Gastrointestinal issues such as GERD

    How to care for sensitive teeth?

    First and foremost visit a dentist for a full exam. A cleaning and professional exam can help detect any deeper issues which could be causing your sensitivity or any other oral health concerns. Your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments to help protect and rebuild your enamel. They may also recommend alcohol- free mouthwash and a toothpaste specialized for sensitive teeth. Specialized products often have desensitizing ingredients to help block discomfort and limited irritating ingredients. 

    Maintaining a strong, consistent oral health care routine at home can do wonders for your oral health. Invest in products which can help rebuild and protect enamel. Practice a healthy diet and try limiting acidic foods. Frankel Dentistry wants to help you achieve and maintain optimal oral health care. Visit us on our other online platforms to learn more about your oral health.

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  10. Curious about Implant Dentures?

    Frankel Dentistry specializes in general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. While Cosmetic Dentistry is one of Dr. Frankel’s passions he also highlights the importance of Restorative Dentistry and the impact it makes on thousands of people each year. Same Day Fixed Implant Dentures fall into this category and at Frankel Dentistry we have changed the lives with this procedure.

    Partial edentulism affects a large majority of adults in America. Over 33 million individuals have dentures. Dentures replace missing teeth with prosthetics and restore the size and shape of the original smile. An Implant Denture is a set of prosthetics supported by a titanium post placed in the patient’s mouth. Implant dentures offer convenience, natural function, natural looking smile, and longevity. Fixed implants preserve the bone and maintain facial features, patients are able to talk, chew, and smile just as before with their natural teeth. Only your dental professional will be able to detect your dentures. If you maintain proper care and stay up to date with you recare appointments your implant dentures can last a lifetime.

    Call today to schedule your FREE consultation. You can meet our team, tour our office, and discuss all your oral care goals.