What is the Recovery Time for a Dental Implant?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Emergency dental care

dental implant recovery time Florissant

What is the recovery time for a permanent tooth implant procedure?

There isn’t a standard timeline because there are many variables involved.

Each patient’s treatment plan is unique.

Here are some variables that affect the recovery time for a dental implant procedure.

  1. Is a tooth extraction required?
  2. Will I need to have a bone graft (and/or sinus lift) before getting the implant?
  3. Will I receive anesthesia during the procedure?

Tooth extraction

If you need a non-viable tooth pulled, it may be possible to receive a dental implant on the same day. As long as you have enough strong, healthy jawbone in which to anchor the implant.

Bone graft

As soon as a tooth is taken out, the bone begins to recede. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement procedure that prevents or (greatly reduces) bone deterioration.

If teeth at the implant site have been gone for a while, the bone may have regressed. Bone can also be weakened or destroyed with a severe infection.

A key determination is whether an implant patient needs bone augmentation.

In a bone grafting procedure, an oral surgeon or dentist packs bone material into the area where the implant will be placed.

If the implant will be placed in the upper arch, you may need a sinus lift treatment. When bone matter diminishes in parts of the upper jaw, it may cause the floor of the sinus cavity to fall into the space created.

A sinus lift procedure is done in conjunction with a bone graft. The goal is to raise the floor of the sinus cavity to make room for the additional bone material.

After the bone graft, you need to wait until the new bone has integrated with the existing bone. This will create a strong and stable foundation for the implant.

Recovery after a bone graft procedure

Day of procedure: Though bone grafting requires oral surgery, don’t let the term “surgery” give the impression that it has a long recovery time. The site will be sore, but most patients can take care of it with Ibuprofen or aspirin.

It doesn’t take much longer than filling a cavity. Most patients can return to work the next day.

If swelling or pain increases a few days after the procedure, contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS.

After a bone graft, how long until I can get my implant?

The fusing process can take several months. You don’t want to rush this because successful implantation requires a sturdy foundation.

Recovery after implant placement

Just as with the bone graft procedure, the implant placement procedure can be completed in less than two hours. If you elect to have IV sedation, however, you will need to wait until the effects of the sedation have worn off.

You will probably experience the following post-procedure:

  • Pain at the implant site
  • Minimal bleeding
  • Swelling and/or bruising of the gums and cheeks

These effects should subside after a few days. Ice packs used on the outside of the face can reduce swelling. Call our office if these symptoms persist.

NOTE: It is not necessary for a permanent tooth implant recipient to be unconscious for the dental procedure. A local painkiller is usually sufficient. However, individuals with dental anxiety may elect stronger sedation.

Healing abutment

Your dentist may attach a temporary healing abutment to the post during the initial surgery. A healing abutment is sometimes described as a ‘healing cuff’ or ‘healing cap.’

Make sure you practice daily oral hygiene but be extra careful when cleaning around the surgical site.

It’s important to follow all post-procedure instructions. And be sure to make the recommended follow-up visits.

Smoking can make it harder to heal from any type of oral surgery.

After a tooth implant has had time to fuse with the bone, you will have an appointment to attach the abutment.

Attaching the abutment

This is a fairly quick treatment. Your dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue at the implant site to expose the post. Then the abutment is attached. Your dentist may place the prosthesis (artificial tooth crown, dental bridge, or denture/partial denture) at the same time. Or your dentist may wait until your gums have healed.

Permanent dental implants can give you a beautiful new smile. To keep it beautiful and avoid further issues (like decay or an infection):

  • Practice proper oral hygiene—keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy
  • Eat a nutritious diet
  • Don’t chew on hard foods or other items
  • If you grind your teeth, pursue treatment.
  • Have a twice-yearly dental exam and cleaning

At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS in Florissant, we restore missing teeth with tooth implants. Dental implant placement studies have found a five-year success rate of 98%.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 8243

Are Oral Rinses Necessary For Kids’ Dental Health?

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Categories: Dental Health, Emergency dental care, Family Dentistry

should kids use oral rinses? Florissant

Despite parents’ best efforts at keeping kids’ teeth healthy, Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS treats tooth decay in young patients typically.

Brushing may not be enough

Most of these little ones report that they brush their teeth every day. Clearly, they either aren’t brushing as often as they think they are. Or they’re not doing it correctly.

Besides brushing, what else can parents do to protect little ones from tooth decay?

Here are 5 vital tools for preventing cavities in youth.

  1. Oral Anti-cavity Rinses
  2. Flossing
  3. Sealants
  4. Fluoride Supplements
  5. Professional dental cleanings

In today’s post, we focus on oral rinses.

What is children’s oral rinse?

Though they look like mouthwash, oral rinses are designed to prevent cavities. They contain fluoride.

How does a child use an oral anti-cavity rinse?

Oral rinses work best when young kids and teenagers swish and spit after they brush and floss. Instead of “gargling” like you do with mouthwash, you “swish” and spit them out.

During the day, teeth are assaulted by acids and sugar in foods and beverages. These substances soften enamel. Fluoride strengthens enamel.

The rinse should be the last liquid to make contact with teeth before bed. This helps tooth enamel re-mineralize during sleep.

Oral rinses and fluoride supplements have different purposes

Is your youngster taking fluoride supplements? Does that mean an oral rinse is unnecessary? Actually, no. Fluoride supplements help strengthen teeth that are still forming. A fluoride rinse helps teeth that have already come in.

How do I choose an oral rinse for my child?

Make sure you select one specifically created for children. Products labeled as a mouthwash may not contain fluoride and they probably contain alcohol.

If you have toddlers, keep oral rinses locked away or otherwise inaccessible. Though they are safe when used as directed for older children (or when supervised for younger children), a toddler may be tempted to drink them. They are not supposed to be swallowed. Fluoride poisoning is dangerous.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 8235

Think Twice Before Using Mail-Order Aligners

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Invisalign Clear Braces, Restorative Dentistry

smile direct aligners Florissant

We get it. It sounds simple. It sounds affordable. It sounds convenient.

You order a kit online. It is delivered to your door. You take an impression of your teeth in the comfort of your home. Or you stop by the clinic and have the impression taken. The company sends you clear aligners to straighten your teeth. And it costs a lot less than orthodontist-supervised Invisalign!

In 2013, SmileDirect Club became the first company to offer self-directed teeth straightening. The fact that they are being sued by customers all over the U.S. should tell you something.

Everything that’s wrong with at-home aligner systems

The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists have released warnings about the perils of direct-to-consumer orthodontics.

“Orthodontic treatment involves the movement of biological material, which if not done correctly could lead to potentially irreversible and expensive damage such as tooth and gum loss, changed bites, and other issues.” American Association of Orthodontists

SmileDirectClub was the first company to offer DIY aligners. They provide custom clear aligners without regular office visits. They tout an average cost savings of over 50% of the price of traditional aligners administered by an orthodontist. They report that the average length of treatment is 6 months.

All aligner systems require a 3D image of your teeth. With Invisalign and ClearCorrect, your orthodontist creates the scan in their office.

With SmileDirect, you can visit one of their “SmileShops” to get a scan. SmileDirect advertises that there are SmileShops in every U.S. state. They also provide the option of taking your own impression using their at-home kit.

You can send a selfie of your teeth. Think about that. Selfies are for vacations. Are they a substitute for the skill of a specialist who attended dental school and several years of orthodontics training?

Is it worth the risk?

Don’t take chances with your smile. Many orthodontists have patients whose self-directed treatment completely messed up their teeth. Some of these individuals end up losing some of their teeth because of mail-ordering treatment gone wrong.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 8298

Inlays/Onlays: Less Invasive Than Complete Crowns

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Porcelain Veneers, Restorative Dentistry

cosmetic dental Florissant

Restorative dentistry has advanced significantly over the years and there are now several effective ways to fix decayed teeth. In today’s post, we are going to focus on two similar types of restorations: dental inlays and onlays.

Where possible, an inlay or an onlay can be a less-invasive alternative to a complete crown and either one is usually more affordable than a porcelain crown procedure.

Inlays/onlays are “indirect fillings,” meaning that they are produced in a lab and placed whole on the tooth. A traditional “direct filling” is applied to the tooth while the material is malleable and then shaped by the dentist.

An inlay is used to fix the surface of a damaged tooth, commonly to fill a small cavity or a natural pit that is at risk for decay.

Typically porcelain or composite resin is used for inlays; these materials are heavy-duty and look very natural because the color can be matched precisely to the surrounding teeth. An inlay is exactly fitted to your tooth and looks, feels, and functions as the initial tooth.

An onlay covers a larger part of the tooth. Because they cover such a large area of the tooth, they are often referred to as partial crowns. Onlays are usually applied to the biting surface of the tooth. Just like inlays, they are exactly fitted to the damaged part of the tooth. Composite resin and porcelain are also the main materials used to create an onlay. As mentioned before, inlays and onlays serve a key role in restorative and cosmetic dentistry.

At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS, we provide exceptional dental care including inlays and onlays. If you have one or more teeth that has a cavity, crack, or excessive wear, call 205-933-0323 to make an appointment today.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 7227

If My Child Doesn’t Have Crooked Teeth, Do They Still Need An Orthodontic Exam?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Gum disease treatment, Invisalign Clear Braces

children's orthodontist Florissant

If my child doesn’t appear to have crooked teeth, should I still have them evaluated by an orthodontist?

Yes. Even if you don’t see any signs that your child will need braces. It’s vital to have an exam and X-rays to know exactly how tooth development is progressing.

When should a child be examined by an orthodontist?

We recommend bringing little ones by the age of seven.

If my son or daughter has gaps between their baby teeth, should I be worried?

Young children have gaps temporarily as their baby teeth gradually fall out and permanent teeth gradually come in. Having gaps in baby teeth doesn’t necessarily mean your youngster will have gaps in their permanent teeth. However, it’s essential to have your child examined by an orthodontist before the age of seven.

If my youngster has a gap between the two front permanent teeth, do they need braces?

A gap between the two front permanent teeth is a very common issue. It can be caused by pacifier use or thumbsucking as a baby. If teeth are unusually small, it may create gaps between them as the jaw develops. In adults, gum disease or missing teeth can lead to gaps.

The tissue that is located between the inside of the upper lip and the gum above the upper front teeth is called the labial frenum. If the labial frenum is especially large, it can create a gap between the top middle teeth.

A gap can be corrected with braces or cosmetic dentistry. It depends on the cause of the gap, the size of the gap, and whether there are bite problems.

If my child has a gap between their two top middle teeth, will it eventually close up?

In a child, the gap between the two top middle teeth may close up. Or it might get larger. Schedule an exam and consultation at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS. We look forward to meeting you and your child.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 8281

Not Happy With Your Dentist?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Florissant Cosmetic Dentisty Hello! Whether you stumbled upon this blog by mistake or clicked here on purpose, welcome!

In the Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS dental blog, we post informative articles about dentistry. This includes general dentistry, cosmetic dental treatments, preventative dental care, and news about our dental practice. Many of my patients visit my blog regularly and I hope you will also find useful dental information here.

If you are in need of a dentist or are not happy with your current dentist, I invite you to visit my Florissant office, meet my friendly staff, and describe your dental needs.

We are dedicated to exceeding our patients’ expectations.

Before we can provide dental treatment, however, Dr. Buchheit must become familiar with each patient. That is why your first initial consultation will take some time. We can’t get to know each other in five minutes.

How are you doing? What is the current condition of your teeth and gums? What are your questions and expectations about dental treatment? Do you have financial concerns about the cost of treatment?

I recognize that each one of my patients has a unique set of circumstances.

At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS, we emphasize preventative dental care. When restorative dental treatment is necessary, we recommend the most conservative service.

If you have pressing dental needs, let’s discuss your options and consider the long-term consequences of each treatment. We are committed to your well-being and want you to receive the best possible care.

Please call us at 205-933-0323 to schedule a consultation. We are confident that you will feel good about choosing Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS for your dental care.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 2988

Do You Have A Thumbsucking Toddler?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry, Invisalign Clear Braces

Open Bite For years, Florissant parents have been warned that thumb-sucking can cause future dental issues for their thumb-loving toddlers.

One of these issues is a type of malocclusion called an open bite.

What is an open bite?

An open bite occurs when the front teeth in the lower and upper jaw have been moved forward; often to the extent that they do not meet when the mouth is closed.

In most cases, an open bite is linked to thumb sucking, but pacifiers and tongue thrusting can also move teeth out of alignment.

What is tongue thrusting?

Tongue thrusting refers to an abnormal swallowing action. The tongue is pushed forward during swallowing. Normally, the tongue is on the roof of the mouth and the teeth closed totally when swallowing.

What can cause tongue thrusting?

A tongue-thrusting habit can arise due to conditions other than thumb sucking, though this is a common cause. Allergies, large tonsils, tongue size, jaw angle, muscular problems, frequent sore throats, and anything that makes swallowing difficult can result in tongue-thrusting practices.

Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS in Florissant

At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS, we diagnose bite issues in young Florissant dental patients such as underbites, overbites, crossbites, and open bites.

If dental treatment is started early in a child’s life, many bite issues and their associated problems can be prevented.

Call Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS at 205-933-0323 to schedule a dental examination for your toddler.

If you do not have dental plan insurance, speak with us about financing options.

Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS offers comprehensive dental care in the greater St. Louis area. Because our friendly staff puts our young patients at ease, your child can grow up without fearing visits to their Florissant family dentist.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 1231

Happy Teeth Don’t Just Happen

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Emergency dental care, General Dentistry

Your Missouri Dentist And Cleaning Your TeethKeeping your teeth clean is an important factor in maintaining a beautiful smile. One of the benefits of visiting your dentist often is receiving a thorough teeth cleaning and a review of your brushing habits.

Your Partner in Oral Health

Our dental hygienist can professionally clean and polish your teeth at your twice-yearly dental check-up. The hygienist also helps you keep your teeth clean by assessing the condition of your teeth and recommending improvements to your daily teeth cleaning habits.

Having a professional dental cleaning is the only way to remove plaque (a sticky substance in which bacteria thrive) and tartar (a calcium deposit that forms on teeth and contributes to tooth decay).

Don’t Forget Basic Dental Hygiene

Brushing and flossing at least twice each day can keep plaque and tartar from accumulating on your teeth and results in cleaner, healthier teeth.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist at least once every 6 months for a dental checkup and dental cleaning.

To keep that beautiful smile in first-rate condition, come in for a dental check-up and teeth cleaning. Call Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS to make an appointment.- Martin L. Buchheit, DDS

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

314-837-7744

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 343

Innovative Orthodontic Treatment For Confident Smiles

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Categories: Clear braces, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants

top orthodontist Florissant

Many dental patients have experienced a boost in self-confidence with orthodontic treatment at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS in Florissant.

Nothing gives us more satisfaction than helping men and women dramatically improve their smile and overall morale.

We Offer The Latest Orthodontic Treatments

We provide the latest orthodontic treatments to correct dental problems and imperfections.

We work with patients to create personalized treatment plans. We can tailor a treatment plan to fit your budget.

It’s Not Just About A Pretty Smile

Orthodontic treatment can relieve pain, correct bite dilemmas, and prevent future problems. Orthodontia is an investment in yourself that you will enjoy every day.

A Healthy Smile That Boosts Self-Confidence

Are you looking for the top orthodontist in Florissant for your child? When necessary, Dr. Buchheit uses two-phase treatment for little ones.

Two-phase treatment begins before all of the permanent teeth erupt. This proactive approach achieves the best long-term results. It may also shorten the overall course of treatment. Best of all, it’s less invasive for your son or daughter. Bring your child in for an orthodontic consultation and exam before they turn seven years-old.

If you have ever wondered what unprecedented orthodontic treatment can do for you or your child, call us today.

The world always looks brighter from behind a smile.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

205-933-0323

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 8186

Super Smiles For Life

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Teeth cleaning

Perfect Smiles pediatric dentist Florissant

Your child should be naturally proud of his or her smile. It expresses joy, laughter, and fun! To make sure your child has a healthy and desirable smile, start early. Really early.

Dr. Martin Buchheit recommends a child’s first dental visit when their first tooth erupts. An early check is the first step in preventing issues and setting the stage for lifelong dental health. Dr. Buchheit will keep the visit short, but complete a thorough visual examination to make sure there are no concerns.

Dr. Buchheit will guide you on good dental procedures at home, such as correct brushing and flossing. You will also be guided regarding healthy eating choices and the effects of poor choices. It is especially critical to keep your toddler from eating sticky or hard candies that lodge in molars and spaces between teeth. It is also important to monitor the amount of juice they drink and keep it in a cup instead of a bottle.

Any time sugary foods or drinks are in contact with teeth, the enamel is weakened from the acid those substances contain. Prolonged exposure begins to wear the enamel away, setting the stage for tooth decay. Unlike broken bones that regenerate, once enamel is gone, it’s essentially gone, though fluoride can remineralize weakened enamel to a small degree.

Promoting a healthy, low sugar diet is always optimal for your toddler’s teeth. If your baby or toddler needs a bottle to calm down and go to sleep, make sure that the bottle contains only water.

Other critical habits are to brush and floss your teeth in front of your child. (If you have never been regular flossing – it’s time to start!) Let them see that it is a priority and a comfortable habit in your life. Brush their teeth with a soft-bristled brush and a small amount of toothpaste. Let them try it, but always go over their teeth afterward, making sure each tooth is brushed. When finished, give them a cup of water to help rinse the toothpaste out.

Before coming to Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS, meet with your child about the upcoming appointment and let them know that their teeth are going to be checked. Dr. Buchheit will help your child feel proud of their effort and help them have a favorable visit, the first of many to come.

Remember also to call any time between scheduled visits with any questions or concerns that might arise. We are enthusiastic about your child’s lifelong dental health.

Buchheit serves many families in the St. Louis area with expertise and compassion. At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS, we love working with children and will help your child have a pleasing experience learning to care for their teeth.

Each member of our friendly team is passionate about making our youngest patients feel safe and comfortable. Our patients enjoy a friendly atmosphere while benefitting from our state-of-the-art technology.

 

Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS:

314-837-7744

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

2149 Charbonier Rd
Florissant, Missouri
63033

 

ArticleID 7112