Jon Frankel Dentistry

Category Archive: Scheduling Dental Appointments

  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. 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

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Are You Wasting Your Dental Insurance?

    Frankel Dentistry’s Five Top Tips for Dental Insurance Coverage

    Dental insurance is a great benefit. Midwest dentist, Dr. Jon Frankel has five tips to best use dental coverage.

    1. Study the plan options during open enrollment and find the plan that best serves your dental health. Make sure there are dentists in your area who accept your plan.

    2. Find a dentist who will do complimentary benefits checks and treatment plan consultations. Understanding your treatment options and insurance benefits helps you gain and maintain dental health.

    3. Schedule your new patient exam and subsequent visits early in the year.

    4. Make sure to schedule at least two well checks or hygiene re-care visits every year. Take care of small issues before they become big problems!

    5. Understand your dental insurance is a great help but behavior is the key to a healthy smile. Brush. Floss. Complete needed treatment as soon as possible.

    Want additional information? Check the American Dental Association website at https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/dental-care-concerns/paying-for-dental-care/using-dental-benefits

    or call Frankel Dentistry at 419-474-9611 Toledo, Ohio or 419-483-0221 Maumee, Ohio.

  6. Keeping in Step with September

    Early September has traditionally been back to school time. Back packs and bus rides were a sign Mom and Dad would have more time to take care of themselves. Often parents would schedule dental appointments before the upcoming season of holidays and deadline for yearly dental insurance benefits.

    Healthy Smiles

    We now face a new normal. Home schooling, sports or no sports, and masks for all have changed our lives dramatically. The doctors, healthcare providers, and staff at Frankel Dentistry are concerned dental health needs may be omitted from the newly minted family calendar.

    Seniors Visit Every Three Months

    They suggest brushing and flossing be placed on the daily checklist or agenda. Children and adults should be scheduled once every six months for dental checkups. Seniors aged 60 and older are best seen every three months. Those with health complications such as diabetes or periodontal disease need well care visits every three months as well.

    Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits


    Calendar reminders to trade out old toothbrushes every three months are also helpful according to Dr. Jon Frankel, owner of Frankel Dentistry.

    He adds. “A healthy mouth promotes a healthy body. Keeping up with dental care is an important preventative practice. We see it every day.”