Jon Frankel Dentistry

Category Archive: Dental Patient Care

1. Over the Counter Teeth Whitening Products

   May 05 2023

   Teeth seem to be getting whiter and whiter. A beautiful bright smile is attractive. There are several at home teeth whitening products. We asked our dental professionals and patients. These are a few of their favorites.

   

   Brighten your smile with teeth whitening!

   Both the patients and the dental professionals stressed seeing your dentist first. Dental diseases such as swollen bleeding gums and decay need to be addressed before whitening teeth.

   The best option according to those we asked is custom whitening trays. They fit well and therefore the gel is neatly placed around the teeth. Some dental offices offer whitening for life. Once the initial trays are made and tubes of whitening gel purchased patients receive an additional tube of whitening at each dental hygiene visit. 

   Another favorite was Crest 3D Whitestrips. They are not custom-made but are convenient and easily accessible.

   Opalescence Go is offered at many dental practices as a complimentary gift for new patients after they have completed necessary treatment. Once again, it is not a custom fit but comes in different strengths and is designed to be used 10-15 days for maximum results. 

   

    

   Colgate Optic Toothpaste and Opalescence Whitening toothpaste come up as preferred whitening toothpastes.

   It is important to note that while these products can be effective, it is essential to consult with a dentist before starting any whitening treatment.
   

   

   Let Frankel Dentistry create the best dental care experience for you!

2. Ten Things Dental Patients Want

   Apr 10 2023

   Get me there!

    

   Accessibility and comfort are important to patients. Convenient location and extended hours are ideal. A pleasant and welcoming environment with blankets, neck, pillows, and individualized music or television options is appreciated.

   

    

   Don’t get stuck in the past.

    

   Dental patients want quality care with the latest technics and technology. They want a variety of treatment options for their specific needs, wants and desires.

   

   What next?

    

   After treatment instructions and after procedure well-checks are helpful toward understanding and accepting the process toward dental health.

   

   On time is late.

    

   Repecting a patient’s busy schedule is important. Offering evening and Saturday hours is not just helpful. It can be essential for many patients.

   

   Be kind.

    

   Empathy and encouragement bring patients back. Many people have dental anxiety and respond well to compassionate dental care.

   

   How much is it?

    

   Dental offices offering complimentary insurance benefits checks and transparent patient responsibilities are key. It builds trust when patients understand treatment and their financial responsibility. Offering payment options is invaluable.

   

   Talk to me.

    

   Clear communication regarding each procedure and treatment options is helpful for patients. Answering questions is central to a great experience.

    

   

   

   Make it personal.

    

   Complimentary consultations give patients the opportunity to share their dental history and explore treatment plan options that meet their needs.

    

   

    

    

    

   Take care of small issues.

    

   Big problems can often be avoided by taking care of small issues early. Patients appreciate preventative care. Discussions including home care evaluations, proactive steps toward oral health, and education on dental diseases are necessary.

   

   Together is better.

    

   Patients enjoy dentists who work together with them toward a healthy, beautiful smile. A mutually designed dental health treatment plan is ideal.

    

   

    

3. Our greatest gift has always been the opportunity to serve others.

   Apr 05 2023

   “Education is what has allowed us to touch the lives of so many!” While always seeking to serve others, the importance of education cannot be overstated. With an Always Better approach Frankel Dentistry partnered with Owens Community College with aims to provide better education, opportunity, and bridge the gap between education and the industry. The Frankel Dental Lab, located in Toledo, Ohio, is a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with hands-on experience in the field of dentistry. The lab is an excellent example of how two institutions with similar missions can come together to create something truly remarkable. 

   

   Dr. Jon Frankel DDS with Dr. Dione D. Somerville.

   Owens Community College is a community college located in Perrysburg, Ohio, with campuses in both Perrysburg and Findlay. The college’s mission is to provide accessible and affordable education that prepares students for the workforce and enriches the community. Owens Community College offers over 130 programs and serves almost 20,000 students each year. Frankel Dentistry, on the other hand, is an employee-owned dental practice with a mission to provide exceptional dental care to their patients. The practice was founded in 1946 by Dr. Sheldon Frankel, and since then, it has been committed to providing high-quality dental care to their patients in a friendly and welcoming environment. Everyday, employees vocalize the importance of “Serving All with an Always Better mindset” this stems from the original Core Values of Serve All, Always Better, G.E.T (gratitude, encouragement, trust) set by founder, Dr. Sheldon Frankel himself. Over the last 75 years, Frankel Dentistry has grown to become one of the best dental practices in Northwest Ohio, with multiple locations across the state. 

    

   Owens Community College and Frankel Dentistry share a common goal: to provide exceptional education and training to individuals that will enable them to succeed in their passions. This shared vision is what led to the creation of the Frankel Dental Lab, which provides students with hands-on experience in the field of dentistry and patient care. Frankel Dentistry’s commitment to excellence and providing exceptional dental care is reflected in the quality of education that the students receive at the Frankel Dental Lab. The lab’s state-of-the-art technology and equipment reflect Owens Community College’s commitment to providing students with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen fields. 

    

   Last March, Frankel Dentistry celebrated this monumental moment in Frankel history and Dr. Jon Frankel DDS shared a few words “Education is what has allowed us to touch the lives of so many through dentistry and healthcare. I am honored and delighted to have the Frankel Dental Lab support the passions of Owens Community College and the success in their future. We are thrilled to have the Frankel Dental Lab reflect the values of both Owens Community College and Frankel Dentistry. Our greatest gift has always been the opportunity to serve others.

   

   Dr. Jon Frankel DDS

   

4. Women Change Lives Through Dentistry Too!

   Mar 14 2023

   March is Women’s History Month and last Wednesday Frankel Dentistry celebrated International Women’s Day! Did you know over 90% of dental team members are female. Dentistry and support is a female dominated field.

   Dentistry would not be what it is today without the thousands of women who have dedicated their lives to oral health care.

   Empower a woman, empower a community – Celebrating the strength, resilience, and achievements of women worldwide on International Women’s Day.

   Let’s learn more about the importance of women in dentistry!

   Dental hygiene and assisting are important fields in the dental industry, with the role of women in these fields growing significantly in recent years. Women have been taking on more roles in dentistry and, as a result, are making significant contributions to the field. Among these roles, the positions of hygienists and EFDAs (Expanded Function Dental Assistants) stand out for their crucial contributions to dental care.

   Women in Dental Hygiene

   Dental hygiene is a critical aspect of dental care, as it helps prevent and manage oral health problems. Dental hygienists work in dental offices, clinics, and hospitals, and are responsible for performing dental cleanings, oral exams, and educating patients about proper oral hygiene practices. Women make up a significant portion of the dental hygiene workforce, with the American Dental Hygienists’ Association reporting that 98.4% of all dental hygienists in the United States are women.

   Women in EFDAs

   Expanded Function Dental Assistants, or EFDAs, work closely with dentists to provide essential dental care to patients. EFDAs are responsible for a variety of tasks, including placing and removing dental fillings, taking x-rays, and assisting with dental surgeries. Like dental hygiene, EFDAs play an essential role in the provision of dental care. Women make up a significant portion of the EFDA workforce as well, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting that 95.6% of all dental assistants are women.

    

   Last week we also celebrated Dental Assistant’s Appreciation Week! How cute is our team?

   

   We love our Dental Assistants!

   The Importance of Women in Dentistry

   Women have always played an important role in the dental industry, but their contributions have become increasingly significant in recent years. The reasons for this include increasing numbers of women entering the dental field and a growing awareness of the importance of oral health. Women have proven to be highly skilled and knowledgeable dental professionals, bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the field.

   Women have made significant contributions to the dental industry as dental hygienists and EFDAs.  The growing numbers of women in these roles is a positive sign for the future of dental care and will undoubtedly continue to benefit patients for years to come. At Frankel Dentistry we are grateful for the women who have helped us build our practice and provide our Toledo and Maumee communities with excellent patient care. 

    

   Looking for a career in dentistry? Visit us online at jonfrankeldentistry.com/careers

    

5. February is Children’s Dental Health Month!

   Feb 01 2023

   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.

   Jan 18 2023

   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.

   

   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. 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. Back to School with Smile Friendly Snacks

   Aug 22 2022

   Back to school season is finally here! Frankel Dentistry wants to help your little ones start the year with a healthy, happy smile. Taking care of your smile goes beyond just cleaning your teeth and regular dental visits, it’s important to watch what you’re putting into your body! 

   

   

   Here are some healthy back to school snacks to help promote dental health!

   • Apples, Celery, and Carrots! Did you know crunchy fruit and vegetables can help clean your teeth by removing plaque from the enamel? Not only do they clean your teeth but also provide you with vitamins and minerals to support your body.

             Some of our favorite classic snacks include apple slices or celery with peanut butter. Carrots and other crunchy vegetables always pair great with hummus.

   • Milk, cheese, and yogurt. Dairy products are a great source of calcium, which helps repair enamel and strengthen bones which support your teeth. Cheese and yogurt are also rich in vitamin D and phosphate which create lower acid levels and reduce the risk of tooth decay.

   • Nuts and seeds! Almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds and more are a great source of healthy fats, vitamin D, folic acid and not to mention one of the best sources of protein. 

   • Thinking about what to drink? Water.

             Encourage your little ones to drink more water daily! Water helps hydrate your organs and muscle, balance pH levels in the mouth, and increase saliva production which means less tooth decay and stronger tooth enamel.

   

    

8. Growing our team one smile at a time.

   Jul 05 2022

   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!

   

   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?

   Jul 01 2022

   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. Men’s Health Matters!

    Jun 20 2022

    June is Men’s Health Awareness Month and Frankel Dentistry is spreading awareness and encouraging healthy habits. Did you know over 350,000 men die every year from heart disease? And only 3 out 5 have regular physicals. Believe it or not, your oral health is connected to your health! This is why we always say a Healthy Mouth Promotes a Healthy Body! Oral health is often overlooked but did you know there are currently 3.6 billion individuals struggling with oral diseases? 

    

    Your mouth is typically a good indicator of your overall well-being. Individuals with periodontal disease have the same risk factors as those with heart disease. Diseases such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease, and Alzthemiers can all be connected to oral health. Frankel Dentistry wants to see you live a healthy, happy life with smiles to share for years to come. How can you make sure you’re practicing a healthy lifestyle?

    Here are some heart healthy habits to help encourage a healthy lifestyle!

    1. A healthy diet.

    Limit your fat and sodium consumption! Highly fat foods are known to increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. This is because fatty foods increase cholesterol which lead to high blood pressure, build up in the blood, clogged arteries, and more. 

    A heart healthy diet includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and limit processed foods. 

    2. Exercise!

    30 minutes a few days a week is all you need! Cardio exercises such as walking, running, cycling, or exercise classes all help strengthen your heart. Find a form of exercise you love and will look forward to! 

    3. DENTAL CARE

    As you know a healthy mouth promotes a healthy body! Studies have shown bacteria in the mouth creates plaque which can move into the bloodstream and increase your risk for diabetes, stroke, and more. Remember to brush twice a day for at least two minutes, floss regularly, and schedule your recare appointments! 

    4. Quality rest.

    Quality sleep is essential to your health and well-being. Sleep allows your heart to rest as well as improve blood pressure and heart rate. We recommend a 7-8 hours of quality rest a night.