Preserve Oral Health & Overall Wellness with Laser Periodontal Therapy in Philadelphia, PA

August 26, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry,Periodontal Disease — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , — horsham @ 5:31 pm

454389001Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults. Research has also revealed a link between untreated periodontal disease and a lengthy list of systemic health conditions, including heart disease and some forms of cancer. At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia, PA and Horsham, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel and his dedicated team are committed to helping patients with gum disease protect themselves from dangerous complications with laser periodontal therapy.

Advantages of Laser Periodontal Therapy

When a patient’s gums are infected, the immune system goes into overdrive, sending antibodies to the source of the excessive bacteria in the tissue. Inflammatory mediators and toxins are released into the blood stream, wreaking havoc on other tissues and organs throughout the body. Periodontal disease must be treated with specialized therapy; regular brushing and flossing will not mitigate the effects of the infection once it has taken hold. With laser periodontal therapy, Dr. Henkel can effectively halt the disease before it leads to even more complex issues, including tooth loss and deterioration of bone tissue in the jaw.

While traditional periodontal surgery involves the use of a scalpel to remove infected tissue, laser periodontal therapy efficiently eradicates the infection in a way that does not require cutting or the use of sutures. The laser cauterizes the treated area immediately; this makes the procedure not only more effective, but also substantially more comfortable for the patient. At Horsham Dental Elements, our goal is to help you achieve optimal oral health in a way that suits your lifestyle and fulfills your unique needs. If you or someone in your family is suffering from the common symptoms of gum disease – including bleeding, redness, and swelling – we genuinely want to help.

Care for Your Smile; Protect Your Health

Reduce your risk of developing serious health problems – including high blood pressure, diabetes, pregnancy complications, heart disease, blood and pancreatic cancer, and respiratory illnesses – by scheduling your laser periodontal therapy visit today. Our offices in Horsham, PA and Philadelphia, PA warmly welcome families from throughout surrounding areas in Bucks County and Montgomery County, including Springfield, Hatboro, Dresher, and beyond. Contact us today to learn more and to reserve your visit with Dr. Henkel. 

Implant-Supported Dentures: Repair and Rejuvenate Your Smile with Dental Implants

July 23, 2014

Filed under: Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , — horsham @ 7:57 pm

shutterstock_152525732Over the last decade, dental implants have rapidly taken their rightful place at the apex of the restorative dentistry spectrum. This revolutionary solution has made it possible for countless men and women to regain the full function and aesthetic appeal of their smiles, replacing missing teeth in a way that looks and feels natural. At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia, PA and Horsham, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel performs dental implant placement and restoration, giving his patients a new lease on life and inspiring renewed confidence. One of the restorative solutions we offer involves the use of implant-supported dentures.

How Can Implant-Supported Dentures Help Me?

For many years, edentulous patients – or those who are missing all of their teeth – had essentially one option when it came to tooth replacement: dentures. These removable dental prosthetics effectively allowed the patient to eat a reasonably balanced diet, though many foods were restricted due to the insecure and unstable nature of the dentures themselves. Ill-fitting dentures often caused discomfort and embarrassment, particularly in social settings. Fortunately, dental implants now make it possible to secure custom dentures within the mouth for improved functionality, allowing the patient to enjoy a smile that feels more like natural teeth than ever before.

In order to set the stage for a strong, beautiful smile, Dr. Henkel first surgically places biocompatible dental implants into the bone of the jaw. These will serve as the secure anchors for the patient’s dental restoration. Over time, the bone tissue that comprises the jaw fuses to the implants, a process known as osseointegration. The dentures that are attached to these implants are custom-made to look and feel like natural teeth. You’ll love your new smile and all of the freedom that comes with it.

Schedule Your Visit with Dr. Henkel Today

With the help of dental implants and implant-supported dentures, patients who are missing all of the teeth in one or both arches can finally feel free to enjoy life to the fullest with a smile that they love. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Henkel and our experienced, caring team. We look forward to talking with you about your restorative dentistry options and developing a treatment plan that is just right for you. From our two conveniently located dental offices in Horsham, PA and Philadelphia, PA, Dr. Henkel warmly welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding areas in Montgomery County and Bucks County, including Springfield, Hatboro, Dresher, and beyond.

Finally Find Real Relief from Bruxism with Dr. Gary Henkel

June 17, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , — horsham @ 6:21 pm

shutterstock_196648349Though the term “bruxism” may not necessarily be a common household name, the condition it describes is actually quite prevalent in the United States. It is estimated that bruxism, or teeth grinding, affects as many as 20 percent of American adults and up to 38 percent of children. When left untreated, bruxism may lead to a number of undesirable side effects and damage to the structures of the oral cavity. At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia, PA and Horsham, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel and his team offer an all-encompassing array of general and preventive dentistry services, including treatment for bruxism.

Understanding the Importance of Treating Bruxism

When the jaws clench tightly during sleep, an immense amount of pressure is exerted without the patient’s conscious knowledge. This force is far more powerful than anything experienced during normal chewing, placing the teeth at risk of damage over time. Combined with clenching, dragging the teeth across each other causes wear and tear that actually becomes visible at a certain point, making the top surfaces of the teeth appear flatter and shorter.

Fortunately, there are oral appliances that can be prescribed by your dentist to prevent this type of damage. Dr. Henkel can provide you with a custom-fitted oral splint or mouthguard that is worn only at night to stop bruxism. Any serious damage caused by bruxism, including worn teeth or fractures in enamel, can be repaired at our office as well, as Dr. Henkel performs restorative and cosmetic dentistry as well.

Bruxism Treatment that Really Works

If you or someone in your family is suffering from nighttime teeth grinding, contact our office today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Henkel and our caring, experienced staff. We look forward to showing you how much of an impact our bruxism and TMJ therapies can make in your daily life. From our two convenient locations in Philadelphia, PA and Horsham, PA, we also proudly serve patients from surrounding areas in Bucks County and Montgomery County, including Hatboro, Dresher, Springfield, and more.

The Importance of Oral Cancer Screening: Vital Information from Horsham Dental Elements

May 26, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — horsham @ 6:43 pm

shutterstock_158422688According to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health, approximately 42,440 people are diagnosed with oral cancer every year. Of these men and women, 8,390 will succumb to this aggressive disease. At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia, PA and Horsham, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel and his team offer comprehensive oral cancer screenings as a part of our general and preventive dentistry services. With the latest technology and truly compassionate care, we help patients of all ages protect themselves against the complications of oral health diseases, including oral cancer.

Why is Oral Cancer Screening Important?

Like all other forms of cancer, oral cancer is most successfully treated when diagnosed in its earliest stages. During oral cancer screenings, Dr. Henkel is able to detect the beginning stages of lesions and other growths that may indicate the presence of cancerous cells.

Though there is no substitute for a professional cleaning, exam, and oral cancer screening at Horsham Dental Elements, there are some signs that you can be aware of at home between visits to our office. Contact us immediately if you notice any of the following:

  • Sores, ulcers, or unusual lumps
  • Problems with chewing or the way that dental prosthetics fit against the gums
  • Difficulties with speech
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Unexplained loss of appetite with or without weight loss
  • Pain when swallowing
  • White or gray lesions on the tongue, gums, lips, cheek lining, or floor of the mouth

Because these symptoms may be indicative of concerns other than oral cancer, they should still be evaluated to rule out the possibility of potentially serious conditions.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Has it been more than six months since your last oral healthcare checkup? If so, it’s time to schedule your appointment with Dr. Henkel at Horsham Dental Elements. Contact us today to discover what a difference our unique, patient-centric approach can make in your oral health and your life. From our two conveniently located offices in Horsham, PA and Philadelphia, PA, we also happily serve patients from throughout Philadelphia, Montgomery and Bucks Counties, including Springfield, Dresher, Hatboro, and beyond.

 

Find Relief from Impacted Wisdom Tooth Pain at Horsham Dental Elements

April 19, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , — horsham @ 8:37 pm

Shutterstock Happy Dental Patient (2)Wisdom teeth, or the third molars, are extraneous teeth that often cause problems that affect other teeth throughout the mouth. When wisdom teeth fail to erupt properly, the result can be a potentially painful condition called impaction. Fortunately, Dr. Gary Henkel and his team at Horsham Dental Elements provide a comprehensive menu of general and restorative dentistry services, including wisdom tooth removal. At our two conveniently located offices in Horsham, PA and Philadelphia, PA, our team combines the most advanced technology in the industry with a personalized touch for a superior patient experience.

Wisdom Tooth Extraction in Philadelphia & Horsham

An impacted wisdom tooth is typically discovered in one of two ways. The first is through an examination and x-ray taken by your dentist, during which the problem is usually detected before it becomes a serious issue. Clearly, this is preferable to the alternative: finding out that you are suffering from wisdom tooth impaction when painful symptoms arise.

Individuals with impacted wisdom teeth often experience mild to moderate discomfort at first, particularly if the tooth has partially erupted and the surrounding gum tissue becomes infected. If left untreated for any extended period of time, the tooth may begin to throb incessantly and send shooting pains throughout the jaw and even up into the ear.

In some cases, impacted wisdom teeth do not cause any noticeable symptoms but still negatively affect overall oral health. Depending on the angle at which the teeth grow, they can cause severe crowding of other teeth, making it more difficult to clean them properly. Dr. Henkel and his experienced team of oral healthcare professionals can discuss with you your individual circumstances and your options regarding extraction to provide lasting relief from wisdom tooth pain. Our goal is to provide you with the comfort and personal attention you deserve at every visit, from routine cleanings and necessary extractions to cosmetic treatments and restorative procedures.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of impacted wisdom teeth or simply have questions regarding impaction and extraction, contact us today and schedule your consultation with Dr. Henkel. From our two locations in Horsham, PA and Philadelphia, PA, we proudly serve patients from communities in Bucks, Montgomery, and Philadelphia Counties, including Hatboro, Dresher, Springfield, and beyond. We look forward to giving you and your family a reason to smile!

Complete Your Smile with Crown and Bridge Restoration at Horsham Dental Elements

March 18, 2014

Filed under: Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 6:42 pm

Are missing teeth keeping you from smiling, eating, and speaking as you’d like? Thanks to the constantly evolving field of restorative dental technology, you have a variety of tooth replacement options available to you. For patients missing one or more teeth in a row, crown and bridge treatment proves an excellent solution that looks and feels natural, restoring your smile’s function and aesthetics. At Horsham Dental Elements in Horsham, PA and Philadelphia, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel and his team help patients just like you reclaim a complete, fully functioning bite with restorative dentistry procedures, including crown and bridge treatment.

How Does Crown and Bridge Treatment Help?

While dental implants are considered a preferred alternative to missing teeth in many cases, this surgical procedure is not ideal for all patients. In cases in which significant bone loss has occurred within the jaw, for example, crown and bridge treatment may be preferred.

The entire crown and bridge placement process is relatively simple. The two teeth that are situated on either end of a gap (where other teeth have been extracted or lost) become what are called abutments. These abutments serve as the anchors for a new bridge of replacement teeth. They will be prepared as necessary to receive brand new crowns, custom-fitted and shaded to match surrounding teeth. Between them, the bridge containing prosthetic teeth will be secured. Within just two to three visits to our warm, welcoming office, your crown and bridge restoration will be complete, allowing you to enjoy all of the benefits of a full set of teeth once again.

Get the Smile and Bite You Deserve

Whether you’ve been missing several teeth for years and are ready to enjoy a complete smile once again, or you’ve recently had extractions performed and need teeth replacement as soon as possible, contact our office and talk to Dr. Henkel today. Our cutting-edge facilities — conveniently located in both Horsham and Philadelphia — also happily welcome patients from surrounding communities throughout Montgomery, Bucks, and Philadelphia Counties, including Hatboro, Springfield, Dresher and beyond. We look forward to seeing your beautiful smile!

 

Protect Yourself From the Hidden Dangers of Gum Disease at Horsham Dental Elements

February 12, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 5:30 pm

When you think of periodontal disease, what is the first thing that comes to mind? More than likely, you imagine swollen, reddened gums and bleeding when you brush, but did you know that advanced gum disease can also lead to a number of far more serious health concerns? At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia and Horsham, Dr. Gary Henkel wants you to know how important proper periodontal therapy is – not only for the health of your smile, but for your overall well being.

A Systemic Connection

When the overabundance of bacteria in infected gums enters the blood stream, it can travel throughout the body, wreaking silent havoc on otherwise healthy tissues and organs. Because many people suffering from gum disease aren’t even aware that they’re affected, they don’t think to make the connection between other health problems and the condition of their mouths. The following are some of the potentially life-threatening complications associated with untreated periodontal disease:

  • Increased risk of heart attack (due to coronary artery disease)
  • Higher chance of suffering a stroke
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • High blood pressure
  • Gastrointestinal problems (may become chronic)
  • Links to pancreatic cancer
  • Preterm birth and low birth weight in babies whose mothers had gum disease
  • Rheumatoid arthritis

Fortunately, periodontal therapy and regular cleanings at Horsham Dental Center can substantially reduce the risk of these complications, even in patients whose oral condition is severe. The key to successful treatment of gum disease is catching the infection in its early stages and beginning treatment as soon as possible.

If you suspect that you may be suffering from periodontal disease and you’re ready to take the first step toward better health, contact us in Horsham, PA or Philadelphia, PA today. Dr. Henkel and his staff gladly serve patients from throughout Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, including Dresher, Hatboro, Springfield and more.

 

Get a Perfect Smile Fast with Porcelain Veneers at Horsham Dental Elements

January 28, 2014

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry,Restorative Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 8:11 pm

A healthy, beautiful smile is a crucial asset when it comes to expressing yourself confidently on a daily basis. If your teeth are flawed in any way – whether it be in the form of stains, uneven spacing or chips – you may feel less inclined to smile around friends, family and coworkers. At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia and Horsham, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel offers the latest in porcelain veneers, allowing patients who are unhappy with the condition of their teeth to once again enjoy a brilliant smile that’s worth showing off to the world.

What are Veneers and How Do They Help?

Porcelain veneers are ultra-thin layers of porcelain material that are applied directly to the surface of your teeth, custom-fit to cover the many cosmetic imperfections that may cause embarrassment. Teeth that have been stained over the years with wine, coffee or cigarette smoke become instantly lustrous and white. Odd gaps between the teeth disappear, replaced instead by even teeth that align perfectly. Porcelain veneers are a simple solution to a number of common cosmetic problems, including:

  • Teeth that are too small or are misshapen
  • Crooked teeth
  • Staining of all levels and colors
  • Gaps between teeth
  • Chips and cracks

If you’ve endured years of unhappiness, constantly hiding your smile, take the first step toward beautiful, natural-looking teeth and call us today to schedule your porcelain veneers consultation. In just two office visits, Dr. Henkel can reverse decades of damage, revealing the brilliant, confident smile you deserve. From our two offices in Horsham and Philadelphia, we proudly serve patients from the entire Philadelphia PA area and beyond, including Bucks County and Montgomery County.

 

Professional Teeth Whitening Takes Years Off Your Smile

January 13, 2014

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , , — admin @ 8:10 pm

The eyes and the mouth – these are the first two features that we subconsciously notice when we meet someone for the first time. What do people see when they look at your smile? If your teeth are stained yellow with age and exposure to food, drinks or smoke, your smile could be making your entire face appear years older than you actually are. At Horsham Dental Elements in Philadelphia and Horsham, PA, Dr. Gary Henkel offers professional whitening services that help people just like you regain the youth and brilliance of a sparkling smile.

Teeth Whitening Options

Despite their claims, the over-the-counter white strips you can find at your local drug store are not capable of delivering high-quality, long-lasting results. Most only whiten teeth to approximately 1.5 to 2 shades and the outcome is far from optimal. With professional teeth whitening treatments at Horshom Dental Elements, patients receive services backed by the latest technology in the cosmetic dentistry industry.

The whitening procedures that Dr. Henkel performs put the patient’s comfort and ideal outcome first. The process is simple, relaxing, safe and proven effective. In fact, most patients experience a whitening effect of between four and eight shades instantly.

Depending on your individual level of staining, you may be a candidate for a take-home whitening treatment, professionally dispensed by Dr. Henkel and his staff. A custom-fit tray is tailored to your teeth for optimal results and you simply apply the solution to your teeth at home as directed.

Reclaim Your Smile

Don’t let yellowed teeth make you look older than you really are for another day. Contact us now to find out how quickly Dr. Henkel can turn back the clock on your smile, giving you the bright, beautiful pearly whites you’ve always wanted. We proudly serve patients from throughout Montgomery County, Bucks County and from across the Philadelphia area.

 

Enjoy a Straightened Smile at Last with Invisalign in Horsham and Philadelphia

December 2, 2013

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: , , , , , , , , — admin @ 2:43 pm

If you’re an adult who prides themselves on presenting a polished image in their everyday lives, pursuing orthodontic treatment can feel like an impossible dream. There’s always the option of traditional braces to correct your gaps or misalignments, but you’ve worked hard to establish yourself as a professional; the last thing you need is a mouth full of metal that makes you feel like you’re back in junior high. Here at Horsham Dental Elements in Horsham and Philadelphia, Dr. Henkel feels that his patients deserve a better option that doesn’t force them to pick between dental correction and self-confidence – that’s where Invisalign comes in! With this revolutionary new orthodontic method, patients can transform their smiles smoothly and seamlessly.

How does Invisalign work?

It’s simple – you’ll be provided with a series of clear, customized aligners, each one representing a different stage of your teeth as they move into their ideal alignment. All you have to do is wear each one for a predetermined amount of time before switching to the next in the set! With brief check-ups every six to eight weeks so that Dr. Henkel can check that your smile is progressing smoothly, you’ll be on the path to a beautifully transformed appearance!

There are numerous benefits to choosing Invisalign treatment over traditional orthodontics. There are no uncomfortable metal wires or unsightly brackets to suffer through – only clear, comfortable aligners that are easily removable, meaning that you won’t have to make any frustrating changes to your diet or oral hygiene routine. Best of all, Invisalign treatment is usually finished after around 12-18 months – a much shorter time than the multiple years that traditional orthodontics can require to be fully effective.

Contact either our Horsham or Philadelphia office today to schedule an appointment! Dr. Henkel and his team can’t wait to give you a reason to smile brighter than ever before.

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