Mark A. Kleive DDS Blog

Snoring & Sleep Apnea Myths

Posted on July 5, 2010 in Snoring and Sleep Apnea

People who snore are often the butt of jokes, but the condition is no laughing matter. In extreme cases, snoring can lead to sleep apnea, a dangerous affliction that affects as many as 2 million Americans. A large majority of sufferers have not seen a dentist or physician for diagnosis and treatment, largely because there are so many myths surrounding snoring and sleep apnea:

Myth #1: Only overweight men snore or have sleep apnea.

Although obesity can exacerbate the condition, there are plenty of healthy women with narrow airways that suffer from obstructive sleep apnea.

Myth #2: The problem will go away if I ignore it.

This couldn’t be further than the truth. When left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to escalated blood pressure, heart failure, diabetes, insomnia, weight gain, and other serious complications.

Myth #3: I’ll wake up immediately if I stop breathing during sleep.

Although sufferers are often jerked suddenly awake after periods of apnea, it doesn’t always happen instantaneously. Cessations of breathing can last anywhere from 10 seconds to a couple of minutes, up to 30 times per hour. You may not even be aware of the frequency of length of the episodes.

Myth #4: There’s nothing I can do about it.

There are several different treatments for snoring and sleep apnea. Although severe cases may require more extreme solutions, most mild to moderate conditions can be remedied with oral appliance therapy. The patient is custom fitted for a dental appliance that is worn like a retainer, keeping the tongue and tissues from obstructing the airway during the night.

To learn more about snoring and sleep apnea, and how oral appliance therapy can help you reclaim a restful night’s sleep, contact Dr. Mark Kleive, a renowned expert in the treatment of sleep disorders at (651) 730-7645. Visit www.RenewingSleep.com for more information on Snoring and Sleep Apnea treatment.

Diabetes and dental care: Guide to a healthy mouth

Posted on June 2, 2010 in Dr. Mark Kleive Oral Health

CNN News, recently featured an article on Diabetes and dental care. The article explored the correlation between proper dental hygiene and controlled Diabetes.

It turns out, long-term health of both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetics can be increased through regular, preventative measures. With high blood sugar, many factors such as tooth decay, early gum disease (gingivitis) and advanced gum disease (peritonitis) can be harder to control. From the bacteria in our mouths, to a Diabetics decreased ability to fight bacteria, regular brushing, flossing and check ups are Diabetics best defense to keep a healthy mouth and body for a lifetime.

Diabetics are encouraged to:

Keep on top of managing blood sugar levels. By staying within the recommended blood sugar levels, you give your body optimal conditions to fight bacteria and you are less likely to develop gum disease or other oral health issues.

Brush your teeth two times a day. Keep your teeth and gums in the best shape by brushing in the morning, at night and after meals, if possible. Electronic toothbrushes can do an excellent job of getting your teeth clean especially if you have arthritis or another condition which makes brushing well a challenge.

Floss once a day. By flossing, you remove plaque, which is not only good for your gums, it is also good for your heart. There are many types of floss such as waxed, unwaxed, floss picks and floss holders. While flossing may hurt at first, after a few days of continual flossing, your teeth and gum will feel great!

Get bi-yearly checkups. Nothing can substitute the eyes of a dental professional, such as Dr. Mark Kleive. A dental professional can help keep you on track with your oral heath and Diabetes, giving you the tools to ensure you have a healthy mouth today, and for the rest of your life.

For questions about Diabetes and oral health, or to learn more about Dr. Kleive’s dentistry services in Minneapolis, St.Paul, call us at 651-730-7645 or send us an email.

Read the remainder of the CNN Article.

Qualities of a Top Dentist: Value

Posted on May 11, 2010 in Advanced Dentistry Dr. Mark Kleive Quality Dentistry

These days, getting good value for your money is more important than ever, and dental care is no exception. While it may seem like a challenge to balance quality of dental care with your financial needs, it’s actually easier than you may think.

Look for a dentist who places a high priority on value. Technological advancements and cutting-edge equipment add value by increasing the accuracy and longevity of dental procedures. Choose a dental environment that best suits your needs while making you feel relaxed and comfortable. Ask to see examples of their work, including before and after photos, to make sure the standard of work matches your expectations.

Also, make sure your dentist understands the importance of affordable treatment without skimping on quality or reducing the standard of care. After all, a low-quality procedure that will only need to be performed again in a few months or years is no bargain. Instead of delaying treatment due to financial restrictions, look for a dentist that offers flexible financing. After all, we finance cars and homes – why not make an investment in ourselves?

Finally, be sure to choose a dentist who will take the time to listen to your concerns and understand your needs. Take your dentist’s advice to heart, especially in regard to preventative measures.

Dr. Mark Kleive offers flexible financing options for most dental procedures. He is also renowned for his patient, personalized approach to oral health.

Finding a dentist who is committed to your oral health while understanding your personal and financial needs is certainly something to smile about!

Qualities of a Top Dentist: Ongoing Education

Posted on April 25, 2010 in Advanced Dentistry Continuing Education Dr. Mark Kleive Spear Institute

With the recent notification, that Dr. Mark Kleive will be named a Top Dentist for 2010 in Minnesota Monthly Magazine’s July edition, we’ve started thinking about what qualities make up a top dentist. Below are our thoughts.

Today, it’s more important than ever for dental professionals to stay abreast of technological advancements. The development of advanced dental materials, equipment, and procedures—as well as the increased availability of consumer dental products—make the need for advanced dental training a top priority.

While every state requires dentists to complete continuing education, you may be surprised to learn that a vast majority meet only the minimal requirements. Dr. Kleive chooses to exceed minimum requirements, in order to have a stronger grasp of the latest procedures and materials and a higher standard of service excellence.

Today’s best dentists utilize advanced dental training and techniques to transform self-conscious smiles into radiant displays, and to preserve and protect good dental health.

Ongoing education:

Allows treatments to be faster, more accurate, and virtually pain-free.
Trains dentists on the latest procedures and materials which help patients teeth to perform beautifully for decades, if not for a lifetime.
Also broadens a dentist’s professional network, allowing them to tap into the expertise of other top dentists for questions or referrals.

Patients of dentists who seek advanced training have plenty of reasons to smile. Not only do they reap the rewards of the latest dental technologies and virtually pain-free procedures, they also have something that can’t be quantified: peace of mind.

Dr. Mark Kleive and his team of dental professionals have demonstrated a strong commitment to ongoing education and training. Dr. Kleive has both attended and instructed classes at Spear Education in Scottsdale, and the Pankey Institute, two of our nation’s premier post-graduate training facilities.

This higher level of knowledge has allowed his practice to provide first-rate diagnostics and treatment to patients of all ages and conditions. Learn more about Dr. Kleive, view his patient testimonials, and see before-and-after patient photos in his smile gallery.

We are proud to be named as a Minnesota Top Dentist!

Dentistry Across Generations: The X and Y Opportunity

Posted on April 13, 2010 in Invisalign Porcelain Veneers Teeth Whitening

(Part II of a II part series on dentistry across generations)

Generation X and Y, as they have grown, have put a heavier influence of their appearance and how others view them. Strong, white, healthy teeth are an important factor in Gen X and Gen Y’s self-esteem, and their smile has an impact on personal and professional relationships. For the younger generations X and Y, modern dentistry has made it possible—and affordable—to have a Hollywood smile.

Even with modern advances, there’s no sense in working to improve your teeth if they aren’t properly cared for. Consult with a qualified dentist because most people have never been shown how to brush properly.

There are many simple dental techniques that can do wonders for self-esteem, including:

Teeth Whitening: Dental tooth whitening is a popular option to improve the color and brightness of their teeth by removing surface stains. Depending on a person’s complexion, one can choose the degree of whiteness and then select from various teeth whitening techniques, from special toothpastes and home care kits to professional procedures performed in a dentist’s office.

Invisalign: This innovative new procedure is an easy, unobtrusive way to straighten teeth without unsightly braces. Invisalign is a series of clear plastic appliances that fit over the teeth like a retainer, fixing crooked teeth quickly but gently. These orthodontia can be removed as desired and are a comfortable, convenient straightening alternative for people of all ages.

Porcelain Veneers: For those who are looking for a quicker fix to crooked, stained, or chipped teeth, porcelain veneers are a simple way to improve the look of teeth without straightening or bleaching. Dental veneers are typically placed over the front surface of the tooth to create the appearance of straightness and to improve color and brightness and used often in cosmetic dentistry.

Generation X and Y believe a smile is one of the first things people notice about you. With all of the options available in modern cosmetic dentistry, it seems obvious why these generations don’t wish to settle for anything less than a bright, white, and healthy smile. Be sure to talk to a dentist about what you can do to improve the beauty and longevity of your teeth for generations to come.

Dentistry Across Generations: The Baby Boomers

Posted on April 5, 2010 in Advanced Dentistry Dr. Mark Kleive

(Part I of a II part series on dentistry across generations)

Baby boomers continue to have a substantial influence in today’s world, with a reputation for being smart consumers and educating themselves on topics of health, finances, and other important life choices. The generation is known for being decisive and well-informed, but one area in which they may be less inclined to take care of themselves is preventive dentistry.

Some baby boomers can take healthy teeth for granted, assuming that good dentistry early on will sustain them through the middle decades of their lives. They may underestimate the importance of ongoing preventative and restorative dental care to preserve their smile and to keep their teeth healthy and strong.

As recently as thirty years ago, it was generally assumed that people would lose their teeth as they aged.

Because of advancements in the following areas, middle aged tooth loss is less likely:

Preventative Dentistry
Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry
Technology and Dental Tools
Advanced Training and Specialization of Procedures
Available Financing for Complex Dental Procedures

But with these advances and the new knowledge available to dentists today, that’s simply no longer the case. Baby boomers are focused on health and longevity, and modern dentistry makes it possible for them to keep their teeth as strong and healthy as the rest of their bodies. Baby boomers can live long, satisfying lives with their own teeth if they are willing to take a few precautions to avoid severe oral health problems.

The most common problem faced by aging dental patients is periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. In virtually every instance, this can be prevented through good dental care practices at home and regular visits to a dentist. Ask your dentist if you have any questions about the best ways to brush, floss, and otherwise take care of your mouth. It’s also smart to ask a dental expert about any changes you may have noticed in your teeth and gums since your last checkup, so they can catch problems early when treatment is simplest and least expensive.

Other common problems for baby boomers include dry mouth, infections, cavities, tooth discoloration, and oral cancer. All of these can be treated or prevented with regular dental checkups and thorough brushing and flossing at home.

The cornerstones of good dental health into middle age and later years include:

Proper home care: Follow your dentist’s instructions on tooth cleaning and oral health to the best of your ability. Most people don’t properly brush or floss to remove dirt, bacteria, and plaque. If you’re uncertain of the best dental practices, ask your dentist or hygienist for a demonstration.
Healthy lifestyle and diet: Second in importance only to good dental hygiene, diet and lifestyle can have a major impact on the health of your teeth. What you eat, when you eat it, and how your day-to-day routine are all important factors in the long-term health of your teeth and gums.
Regular dental checkups: Seeing a dentist on a regular basis is the best way to preserve the health and longevity of your teeth. Catching problems early on before they develop into bigger ones can save substantially on dental expenses. Annual dental exams are important for everyone, regardless of age or the condition of the teeth. Any changes in your oral health, from sores and swelling to tooth discoloration or pain, should be brought to the attention of your dentist.

With modern technology and today’s advances in dental hygiene, it’s possible for baby boomers to keep their own teeth healthy and strong for the rest of their lives. At the office of Dr. Mark Kleive, we’re committed to helping patients of all ages maintain healthy, beautiful smiles that are both appealing and functional. Contact us at (651) 730-7645 to schedule a no-fee consultation or send us an email today.

Invisalign and You

Posted on March 21, 2010 in Crooked Teeth Invisalign

We all want a straight, even smile, but the reality is that few of us are born with one. Crooked teeth is one of the most common dental problems, affecting millions of people around the world. In addition to impacting your appearance and confidence, they can make it difficult to achieve proper oral hygiene, since food is more likely to get trapped between teeth and flossing and brushing aren’t as effective as they could be. If left untreated, crooked teeth can also lead to bite misalignment.

Fortunately, crookedness is easily corrected. In past decades, most people had to suffer through years of painful, unattractive metal braces, but modern technologies have provided more convenient, comfortable alternatives. Invisalign has become a widely popular teeth straightening solution, offering a range of benefits:

Aesthetics: Made from a clear material, Invisalign is barely noticeable, allowing you to achieve a straight, even smile without the eyesore of metal braces.
Versatility: Invisalign teeth straighteners can be easily removed and put back in, allowing you to eat, drink, brush, and floss with ease.
Comfort: Made from non-abrasive materials and applied in a non-invasive way, Invisalign trays simply fit over your teeth like an orthodontic retainer, never causing pain, soreness, or irritation.
Results: Although Invisalign is much gentler than braces, it achieves real, permanent results.

Dr. Mark Kleive is highly knowledgeable in teeth straightening treatments like Invisalign, as well as TMJ and jaw alignment issues. Contact our office to schedule a no-fee consultation and to see testimonials from delighted patients.

The Evolution of Dentistry

Posted on March 2, 2010 in Advanced Dentistry

If you still harbor memories of painful, scary childhood dental visits filled with pain and lectures, it’s time to adjust your expectations. Today, the dentist-patient relationship has evolved to one of open communication and mutual respect, based on the following important factors:

Communication: Before making any treatment recommendations, your dentist should take the time to discuss your dental history and understand your long-term goals. They should always be available to address your questions or concerns along the way.
Control: While control used to lie with dentists in past generations, today it’s all yours. Look for a dental care provider who encourages your input and feedback about the direction of your treatment.
Technology: Today’s dentists have access to high-tech equipment and efficient processes, making even the most complex treatments virtually pain-free and much less invasive.
Prevention: When you were a child, your dentist probably just fixed what was broken, filling cavities as they appeared and straightening teeth after they’d become crooked. Today’s dentists understand that good long-term dental health is dependent on proactive care. Through regular visits, proper hygiene procedures, and open communication, you and your dentist can work together to catch issues before they can escalate into painful problems.
Beauty: Remember the days of unattractive silver braces and plastic-looking bridges? While dental procedures used to focus primarily on function, today’s dental providers have blended that with aesthetics. Now you can have the best of both worlds: proper oral health and the brilliant, natural-looking smile you’ve always wanted.

At the office of Dr. Mark Kleive we never scold, lecture, or impose procedures. We let the patient be our guide, basing treatment recommendations on their lifestyle and long-term goals. Even patients who have suffered from extreme dental anxiety in the past have been pleasantly surprised by the soothing, relaxed environment created by Dr. Kleive and his team. To learn more about how we’ve redefined the doctor-patient relationship read our patient testimonials and give us a call.

Using Dentistry to Treat Snoring & Sleep Apnea

Posted on February 24, 2010 in Snoring and Sleep Apnea

“A dentist to treat my snoring? Really?”

This is a typical reaction when patients suffering from snoring or sleep apnea are referred to a dentist for treatment. It may not seem obvious right away, but a dentist is uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat these sleep-impairing conditions. During their medical training, dentists receive thorough education in the anatomy of the nose, mouth, and throat, which is where snoring and sleep apnea originate.

Many dentists work in tandem with traditional physicians and sleep therapists, but they also treat patients directly using several different methods. In extreme cases, CPAP therapy may be used, where the patient wears a mask attached to a machine that forces air into the mouth and throat, but this cumbersome treatment is usually not a realistic option. As a more practical and less intrusive CPAP alternative, oral appliance therapy has become a common method for eliminating snoring and sleep apnea symptoms.

An oral appliance can be compared to an orthodontic retainer. The dentist takes a mold of the patient’s mouth and creates a custom appliance that fits over the teeth and tongue during sleep, keeping the tongue and throat tissues from blocking the airway. Oral appliances usually don’t interfere with the patient’s lifestyle and routines, and can be discreetly stored or brought along on trips.

Dr. Mark Kleive is an authority in diagnosing and treating snoring and sleep apnea. He and his team provide a warm, welcoming environment, treating the patient instead of just the problem. To learn more about the benefits of oral appliance therapy, visit Dr. Kleive’s snoring and sleep apnea website or contact us to schedule your no-fee, no-obligation consultation.

Dangers of Untreated TMJ

Posted on November 15, 2009 in TMJ and Jaw Disorders

TMJ is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects the jaw to the side of the skull. Although it’s often referred to by the somewhat flippant term “lockjaw,” TMJ is no laughing matter. If left untreated, it can have very serious and long-term effects.

Below are just some of the risks of not seeking treatment for TMJ:

Chronic pain: When the joint becomes swollen or painful, it can cause discomfort in not only the jaw, but also the mouth, ears, eyes, shoulders, and head (often triggering chronic headaches and migraines). The pain is exacerbated by everyday activities like eating, speaking, and yawning, so the initial mild irritation can quickly become excruciating.
Jaw problems: In advanced stages of TMJ, it can become impossible to close the jaw, requiring emergency medical assistance. Dislocation of the jaw can also occur as the cartilage around the joint deteriorates.
Poor dental health: Because those with TMJ often favor one side of the jaw for chewing, the condition can eventually result in uneven wear of the teeth and chronic misalignment.
Teeth grinding and sleep loss: Many sufferers involuntarily grind their teeth while sleeping. This can result in restless, erratic sleep patterns, causing fatigue, lack of focus, and irritability.
Hearing problems: Because of the affected joint’s close proximity to the ear, untreated TMJ can cause ear pain, tinnitis, dizziness, and impaired balance. In extreme cases, it can even result in permanent hearing loss.
Eating disorders: To avoid the pain caused by the affected joint, those with the syndrome often find themselves skipping meals or forgoing solids in favor of liquid diets. This can result in malnourishment or eating disorders.

To prevent severe pain and chronic jaw problems, it’s important to be proactive about your TMJ treatment. Dr. Mark Kleive is a highly respected expert in all areas of jaw health and alignment. He offers gentle, non-invasive treatment methods tailored to your needs, schedule, and budget. Contact our office to schedule your free consultation.

« Older Entries