November is National TMJ Awareness Month
🦷 November is National TMJ Awareness Month, a perfect time to highlight the importance of TMJ (temporomandibular joint) health and its critical role in our overall wellness. At the core of functions like chewing and speaking, the TMJ supports everything from a comfortable, pain-free smile to balanced muscle function and even enhanced airway health. Proper… READ MORE
2024 Annual IAOMT Conference – Biologic Dentistry
🦷✨ We attended the 2024 Annual IAOMT conference In Wash DC last week and it was AWESOME! My dental practice Bechtel Dentistry in Lansing, Michigan is a proud member of this incredible organization and we’re passionate about Biologic Dentistry! IAOMT – The International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology is a global network of dentists,… READ MORE
How’s Your Blood Pressure
Blood pressure is a measurement most of us are familiar with. It provides a critical insight into the health of someone’s cardiovascular system. It is a reading that should be taken at every medical visit. It consists of two numbers, the first number being Systolic, which is the pressure of the blood as it is… READ MORE
Teeth Grinding During Sleep? I Can Help!
Do you ever wake up in the morning with soreness in your neck, back, or ear or a stiff, tired-feeling jaw? You may be unconsciously grinding your teeth at night. I have patients come into my office with these same complaints as much as once or twice per week. Often, patients who suffer from teeth… READ MORE
National Root Canal Week-Focusing on a Better Option
I’d certainly like to join in and take this opportunity to raise awareness about a gentler, less invasive approach that may help you avoid having to have root canals with Minimally-Invasive Biomimetic Dentistry. Biomimetic Dentistry can restore a damaged or broken tooth in a minimally-invasive manner, helping to preserve the integrity of the tooth by… READ MORE
Is Guided Biofilm Therapy Right for You?
Professional dental cleanings are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. But if you’re like 50-80% of American adults who suffer from dental anxiety, you may find yourself skipping out on your dentist appointments. If this sounds like your situation, then I have some good news for you! There’s now a gentler, stress-free way… READ MORE
We Offer Dental Ozone Therapy
Dental Ozone Therapy is available for our patients seeking holistic dentistry treatments that support natural healing and is minimally invasive at our Lansing Dentist office. Hello, this is Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS, and we are committed to helping you enjoy optimal health and wellness, using safe alternatives to reduce infection that meet our high… READ MORE
National Mouth Cancer Awareness Month
While November marks the beginning of the holiday season, there’s another reason why it’s an important time of the year. November is Mouth Cancer Awareness Month, a gentle reminder to check in on our oral health and consider precautions like Oral DNA Testing which can reduce our risk of disease. Oral cancer screening is a… READ MORE
September is National Gum Care Month
Did you know that September is National Gum Care Month? Your gums are one of the most important structures in your mouth. Not only do they help support your teeth, but they also serve as a protective barrier and prevent harmful bacteria from getting into your bloodstream. That’s why it’s important to continually take good… READ MORE
What Is Dental Ozone Therapy?
Dental Ozone Therapy is available for our patients seeking holistic dentistry treatments that support natural healing and is minimally invasive at our Lansing Dentist office. Hello, this is Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS, and we are committed to helping you enjoy optimal health and wellness, using safe alternatives to reduce infection that meet our high… READ MORE
National Root Canal Day
Today, May 10, 2023, is recognized as National Root Canal Day. The holiday was created in 2005 by Chris Kammer, a founding member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, to educate people about the importance of dental care. He’s also a known advocate for the oral-systemic approach to the prevention of disease. I would… READ MORE
Oh My Beating Heart – Know Your Numbers!
Blood pressure is a measurement most of us are familiar with. It provides a critical insight into the health of someone’s cardiovascular system. It is a reading that should be taken at every medical visit. It consists of two numbers, the first number being Systolic, which is the pressure of the blood as it is… READ MORE
Is Guided Biofilm Therapy Right for You?
Professional dental cleanings are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. But if you’re like 50-80% of American adults who suffer from dental anxiety, you may find yourself skipping out on your dentist appointments. If this sounds like your situation, then I have some good news for you! There’s now a gentler, stress-free way… READ MORE
How Common is Oral Cancer
A warm hello to everyone during this Holiday season. I’m Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS and my dental practice is in Lansing, Michigan. I’ve dedicated my life to the study and practice of biologic and holistic dentistry, and I am intensely focused on providing patient-centered care. This is a tough topic to absorb especially given… READ MORE
We Now Offer Guided Biofilm Therapy
Hello, this is your Lansing dentist, Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS and today I have some exciting news to share with you! Bechtel Dentistry is now offering Guided Biofilm Therapy for all dental hygiene appointments! If you’re someone who cringes at the thought of getting your teeth cleaned because of the potential pain and discomfort,… READ MORE
Eating Habits and Lifestyle Changes Can Help TMJ
Left untreated, TMJ can cause a tremendous amount of pain and discomfort, and severely impact one’s quality of life. Individuals who suffer from TMJ Disorder are often burdened by debilitating symptoms such as chronic jaw pain, migraines, back pain, facial pain, and difficulty chewing or speaking. Experts estimate that approximately 10-15% of Americans suffer from… READ MORE
A Conservative Holistic Option for Treating TMJ Disorder
Hello, I’m Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS and today I’d like to talk about some of the methods I use to treat TMJ Disorder. You or someone you know may benefit from knowing this information. TMD is a troublesome and painful health affliction that affects millions of Americans. Individuals who suffer from this condition are… READ MORE
Patient Testimonial Spotlight
I have found my experience with Dr. Bechtel to be completely satisfactory. I have observed him to be patient, logical, extremely detailed, caring, willing to help in whatever I asked of him, and persistent in achieving our mutual goals. I met Dr. Bechtel in 2020 when I had my third episode of TMJ. Two prior… READ MORE
Bad Habits To Break If You Suffer From TMJ Disorder
TMJ facial pain and headaches impact about 10% to 15% of Americans, impacting their quality of life and making daily tasks more difficult. The pain, discomfort, and tenderness can affect jaw joints, the face, neck, ears, shoulders, and upper back. Many TMD sufferers experience trouble sleeping, eating, and other activities that make day-to-day living more… READ MORE
An Oral DNA Test Can Save Your Life
You may have heard people referring to your mouth as the gateway to the rest of your body. Countless research studies have been finding increasing evidence that demonstrates just how significant the health of our mouth impacts the overall health of the rest of our body. This is called the oral-systemic connection. This simply means… READ MORE
What Causes Teeth Grinding During Sleep?
Do you ever wake up in the morning with soreness in your neck, back, or ear or a stiff, tired-feeling jaw? You may be unconsciously grinding your teeth at night. I have patients come into my office with these same complaints as much as once or twice per week. Often, patients who suffer from teeth… READ MORE
Holistically & Biologically Inclined Dentistry in 2022
Hello, this is Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS and I am super excited about continuing to provide holistically and biologically inclined dentistry in 2022. I’m fully dedicated to the integrated health and wellness of the whole body and helping my patients with their health and wellness goals. I feel blessed to be practicing holistically and… READ MORE
Can Biomimetic Dentistry Prevent Root Canals?
At my dental practice in Lansing, MI, I am committed to providing restorative dental services that uphold our holistic and biologic wellness standards. I provide a biologic alternative to conventional crowns with biomimetic, minimally invasive restorations. Biomimetic Dentistry is a superior form of dentistry that’s been proven to provide better long-term oral health than traditional… READ MORE
Can A Dentist Treat Sleep Apnea? YES!
Yes, your sleep apnea oral appliance solution for snoring can be treated at my Lansing, MI dental office. I have the training, skills, and experience to treat mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea for my patients. To treat this condition, I may recommend a custom-made oral appliance. But first, it’s crucial to learn and… READ MORE
Dental Ozone Therapy Is Here At Bechtel Dentistry
Bechtel Dentistry is excited to announce that Dental Ozone Therapy is available for patients seeking holistic dentistry treatments that support natural healing and is minimally invasive at our Lansing Dentist office. Hello, this is Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS, and we are committed to helping you enjoy optimal health and wellness, using safe alternatives to… READ MORE
Biologic Diagnosis & Treatment of TMJ Disorders
Bechtel Dentistry Is Focused On Biologic Diagnosis & Treatment of TMJ Disorders, Graduated OBI’s Level 3 Curriculum: Hello, I’m Dr. Jonathan J. Bechtel, DDS and I became a dentist because I have always wanted to help others. Nothing makes me feel internally better, than when I can help someone else. It adds meaning to my… READ MORE
What Causes TMJ Disorder?
TMJ Treatments for Lansing, Michigan As a Lansing dentist, TMJ health is a topic that I frequently receive questions about. I see a fair amount of patients that experience TMJ health related issues, although they usually don’t know they are at the time that the symptoms are occurring. That’s because TMJ often manifests in a… READ MORE
TMJ/TMD Self Assessment
Bechtel Dentistry is honored to provide our effective, holistic approach for TMJ/TMD care. Our self-assessment questionnaire is designed for ease and convenience for all of our patients living throughout Lansing and the surrounding area. This complimentary TMJ/TMD assessment can help you assess if your current TMJ health. Please contact our office as soon as possible… READ MORE
Lansing’s Premier Source for Mercury-Safe Dentistry
Bechtel Dentistry is a dedicated mercury-free facility offering mercury-safe removal services. That means that we do not place any mercury fillings and are certified to safely remove mercury fillings, utilizing a specific protocol, for patients throughout the Lansing area. I am certified in SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique) from the IAOMT, International Academy of… READ MORE
Got TMJ Pain? I Can Help Provide Relief!
Hello, this is Dr. Jonathan Bechtel, DDS and I am honored to extend my TMJ/TMD expertise for patients suffering from this painful condition including facial pain, jaw pain, headaches and more. All of our individualized treatment plans embrace our holistic approach, offering minimally-invasive, yet effective methodology. Our team is here to provide the support you… READ MORE
Home Remedies for Alleviating TMJ Headaches and Facial Pain
TMJ facial pain and headaches impact about 10% to 15% of Americans, impacting their quality of life and making daily tasks more difficult. The pain, discomfort, and tenderness can affect jaw joints, the face, neck, ears, shoulders, and upper back. Many TMD sufferers experience trouble sleeping, eating, and other activities that make day-to-day living more… READ MORE
Proper TMJ Management Can Improve Your Quality of Life
TMD sufferers often experience a myriad of symptoms that can impact day-to-day living, affecting their quality of life. Some of the more common symptoms of TMD include pain, discomfort, and tenderness throughout their jaw joints, face, neck, ears, shoulders, and even upper back. TMJ pain impacts about 10% to 15% of Americans, making proper management… READ MORE
What Are the Best Sleep Positions for TMJ Patients?
Sleep can often be underappreciated until you start to experience difficulties with getting the proper rest you need. Sleep deprivation and sleep disorders can impact you physically, mentally, and emotionally, putting you at higher risk for considerable health conditions. Sleep is so important for your overall wellness as well as your oral health. TMJ/TMD patients… READ MORE
TMJ Treatments for Lansing, Michigan
TMJ Treatments for Lansing, Michigan As a Lansing dentist, TMJ health is a topic that I frequently receive questions about. I see a fair amount of patients from Lansing, Holt, Okemos, and Mason that experience TMJ health related issues, although they usually don’t know they are at the time that the symptoms are occuring. That’s… READ MORE
Preventative Dental Care
Preventative Dental Care As a Lansing dentist and dental health coach, preventative care is one of the areas of dental health that I feel most strongly about. Practicing proper preventative care, both at home and by visiting the dentist, is essential for maintaining good oral health. Through regular care and maintenance, our Lansing dentist can… READ MORE
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Gum Disease
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a type of inflammatory Arthritis that is also an autoimmune disease. Although the reasons why it occurs are not fully understood, the immune system is over reactive and attacks the body’s own synovial tissue throughout the entire body. The synovium is a thin membrane that lines all of the joints in… READ MORE
The Road Less Traveled
I did a Google search on a question today. What is more important to Americans, Health or Money? The search took me to a website called debate.org. The site posted the questions, tallied the responses and allowed the respondents to comment. I was shocked to see that the poll was running 50/50 in respondents choosing… READ MORE
Oh My Beating Heart!
Blood pressure is a measurement most of us are familiar with. It provides a critical insight into the health of someone’s cardiovascular system. It is a reading that should be taken at every medical visit. It consists of two numbers, the first number being Systolic, which is the pressure of the blood as it is… READ MORE
Dental Fitness 101
One thing I think we pride ourselves on in our dental office is our focus on preventive care. The reality is that whether you go to a dentist or not is NOT going to be the primary indicator of whether or not you keep your teeth in your mouth the rest of your life. Now… READ MORE
Home Care for a Healthy Mouth
I am going to give you a gift. I am going to tell you the secret to avoiding a lot of pain, expense, and minutes of your life sitting in a dental chair you will never get back. This article is going to focus more on the actual care techniques that work. It goes without… READ MORE
The China Study Cookbook
Delicious Recipes! I highly recommend this book called “The China Study Cookbook” by LeAnne Campbell, PhD. In the book, our family has found a number of delicious recipes that promote better health. Below is a recipe for a Southwestern Salad that is easy to make and delicious! Enjoy and here is to your Good Health!… READ MORE
Diet and Your Health
Two years ago, almost to the day, the World Health Organization announced the findings of a panel of experts it had convened. The headlines were a shock to this Meat and potatoes lover. The WHO had come to the conclusion that eating processed meats (hot dogs, ham, bacon, some deli meats, and sausage) raised the… READ MORE
Why does my jaw hurt?
It is interesting how throughout life, things seem to happen in patterns or waves. I am sure someone at MIT has mathematically figured out the statistical probability for just about anything. One thing I have noticed recently within the practice is that a number of patients have come in within the last month complaining of… READ MORE
Periodontal Disease Process
The dreadful story of periodontal disease. A little bit of plaque can lead to a little bit of gum disease. A little bit of gum disease usually leads to a little bit more. This is how gum disease progresses to losing teeth. In some individuals this process can take months if really aggressive. In most… READ MORE
Health and Disease: New Definitions
We need to look at ourselves from a systems point of view—as an organism comprised of physical elements and an energy field constantly in flux the whole. We are influenced at all times, endlessly, and in many ways difficult to pinpoint, by countless disturbances and inputs. We must redefine our concepts of health and disease…. READ MORE