Jon Frankel Dentistry

Category Archive: Senior Dental Care

  1. Diabetes and the Dentist? 5 Connections and 5 Tips

    November 14th is National Diabetes Day. Patients know they need to monitor their blood sugar with diet and medication but what about dental care. Is there a connection?

    Five Connections Between Diabetes and Dental Health

    Dry Mouth

    A reduction of saliva because of diabetes can lead to dry mouth. Dental patients with dry mouth are at a higher risk of decay.

    Gum Disease

    Gum disease is a cause of tooth loss. Swollen, bleeding gums, and bone loss are symptoms of gum disease. Those with diabetes are susceptible to periodontitis partially due to elevated sugar levels and bacterial growth.

    Infection

    The immune system can be weakened by diabetes. Those with diabetes can be more susceptible to oral infections.

    Slower Healing Time

    Delayed healing time may mean dental patients take longer to recover from treatment. It may also increase the risk of infection.

    Blood Sugar Complications

    Uncontrolled diabetes may increase the glucose in saliva creating an ideal environment for bacterial biofilm or dental plaque formation. Bacterial plaque is associated with dental decay and gum disease.

     

    What to do!

     

    Regular Dental Check Ups

    See your dentist every three months for cleanings and checkups. Brush and floss daily. Keep your dentist informed regarding your diabetes.

    Be Aware

    Keep an eye out for signs of dental disease such as red swollen gums, bleeding, or tooth

    discomfort.

    Stay in Charge

    Visit your healthcare provider at regular intervals and keep your blood sugar at the levels recommended.

    Drink Water

    Stay hydrated to keep dry mouth under control.

    Do not Smoke

    Smoking can exacerbate disease and quitting will improve dental and overall health.

  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. Implant Dentures Change Lives

    Did you know 69% of American adults are missing at least one tooth? Losing an adult tooth can be devastating, not only does it affect your mental health but your physical health as well. Missing teeth can lead to gum disease, bone loss, and more missing teeth. 

    Looking for a solution?

    Dental implants and implant supported dentures are the best and most permanent way to replace missing teeth. Frankel Dentistry offers partial and full dentures, placed with a titanium root which can be just as strong as your original teeth. This helps prevent bone loss and build confidence in your smile.

    The beauty of implant supported dentures at Frankel Dentistry, is the procedure is done in house. We take a 3D scan that allows us to place the implant virtually, in the perfect spot. Once the dental image of the implant is created we can create a guide. The guide allows the implant supported dentures to be quickly and precisely placed.

    Within three to four months, the implant or implants will fuse to the bone, and the implant crown, tooth, or dentures can be placed.

    Don’t believe us? Meet Alan.

    Alan is a kind, friendly Toledo native who loves family, conversation, and Cafe Donuts. We sat down with Alan, listened to his concerns, weighed out his options and the final result? A beautiful, brand new smile.

    Alan shares how appearances have such an impact on your well-being. While he is still the same kind soul he was before his smile makeover, he finds himself easily accepted by new friends, presented with new opportunities and confidence in his smile. Find your smile again at Frankel Dentistry.

    https://youtu.be/_fQm9fIwNBQ

  4. 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.

  5. Keep It Clean, Your Mouth Reveals

    According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over 70% of those over 65 years of age have periodontal disease. Periodontal Disease begins with bleeding gums and progresses to a silent, chronic infection that destroys the bone and gums that support your teeth. Teeth become loose, supporting tissue recedes, and often teeth are lost. The infection does not remain localized to the oral cavity or mouth. Studies have long indicated a correlation between a healthy mouth and a healthy body. For more information, contact Frankel Dentistry for a copy of their brochure, A Healthy Mouth Promotes a Healthy Body.

    The good news is you can prevent this chronic debilitating disease. It may start at a young age. The first stage is an acute infection. Gum tissue bleeds when the teeth are brushed or flossed. Ironically, it is the same brushing and flossing along with regular dental visits that reverse gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. Periodontal Disease can be prevented with proper oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and sound nutrition.

    It is tragic that so many people are left without a natural looking smile, are unable to eat as they once did, and often find clearly speaking a challenge. Especially since, it could be prevented.

    Toledo, Ohio Dentist Dr. Jon Frankel has made it his passion to change lives a smile at a time. By offering the best dental experience his patients enjoy dental visits and healthy smiles.

    Stop the vicious cycle of periodontal disease. Your mouth will thank you.

    https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/conditions/periodontal-disease.html

  6. 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.

  7. Ready to Retire? Toledo Dentist Keeps you Smiling.

    Ready to Retire?

    Don’t Forget your teeth.

    There is a lot of planning that goes into getting ready to retire. You are constantly calculating your expenses, counting the dollars and planning the next phase of your life.

    One expense that may be overlooked is dental expenses and benefits. If you plan to use Medicare for your coverage, you would want to look at a separate dental plan. Traditional Medicare does not cover dental care. If you have retiree health care from your employer, make sure to ask if the plan covers dental care.

    Without having a dental insurance plan, patients tend to go to the dentist less often to try to save money. In fact, the less you go to the dentist for routine exams could mean bigger bills later. As you age , it’s critical to keep preventative care visits. These routine visits uncover small issues before they become big problems.  Untreated dental issues may turn into complications that affect other health conditions.

     

    If you are looking for a dental plan to pay out-of-pocket, you can contact our Benefits Team for a list of recommendations that our office accepts.