Smile Necessities And Possibilities

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, General Dentistry

fast braces Florissant

With cosmetic dentistry, Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS creates dazzling smiles for patients.

A cosmetic dental smile makeover doesn’t just make your smile more attractive. It also builds self-confidence. You will be more comfortable in your professional and personal interactions.

Let’s Talk

Not happy with your smile? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Buchheit.

We’ll discuss what is required, what is desired, and what is possible for your smile. That freely revealed smile of childhood can be restored to you.

Then we will design an individualized plan of action.

Call to find out about the cost of various dental services and to schedule a consultation at 314-837-7744. We have competitive costs when it comes to cosmetic dental smile makeovers through cosmetic dental procedures and restorative dentistry.

We’ve been around since 1987. Over the years we have performed many procedures involving general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry.

Restorative dentistry ranges from simple fillings to crowns to dental implants. Cosmetic dentistry is complex. There are many variables that require consideration and experience.

We look forward to meeting your needs on your terms. See you soon!

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 6734

The 411 on TMJ

Posted on
Categories: Cleanings and checkups, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

TMJ dentist Florissant

Do you have unexplained pain or clicking sounds in your jaw? They can be the result of a serious jaw condition.

Some conditions with the jaw and the muscles that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). But it’s also frequently called TMJ, because that’s the acronym for the name of the joint. Technically, that’s not correct.

“Temp-or-o-man-di-what?!

Let’s talk about what this means. The word temporomandibular is defined as ‘of, relating to, being, or affecting the joint that connects the temporal bone and the mandible.’

(We are not betting people, but if we were, we would bet that you did not foresee an anatomy lesson from your dentist.) The temporal bones are located at the sides and base of your skull and include five parts, the squama, the petrous, mastoid, tympanic parts, and styloid process. The mandible is the lower jaw, and, anatomically speaking, holds your whole face together.

What are the signs of TMD?

If you have jaw problems, either due to an accident, arthritis, misalignment of teeth or jaw, teeth grinding and clenching, poor posture, or chewing gum, you may experience:

  • tooth grinding or clicking
  • jaw pain
  • earaches
  • popping sounds in your ears
  • headaches
  • stiff or sore jaw muscles
  • locking of the jaw joint
  • pain in the temple area

Quite often, TMJ symptoms will go away on their own. Some individuals who are plagued with TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress.

TMD is an often misdiagnosed condition because facial pain can result from a variety of issues, not just damage to the temporomandibular joints. Sinus infections, decay, and facial injuries can cause jaw pain. An accurate diagnosis is the first step in treating TMD.

If your TMD symptoms don’t go away on their own, seek professional help. Chronic TMD can be debilitating and your dentist can help. Dentists that treat TMD work hand-in-hand with a network of specialists including ENT specialists, neurologists, and physical therapists. Talk to a healthcare professional.

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 8334

How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Tooth Color

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Health

teeth whitening Florissant

It’s a common desire for people to want white teeth. But the majority of men and women have discolored or just plain yellow teeth. Especially in a world of tea and coffee drinkers.

Your Genes Make a Difference

As with other physical aspects, there is a genetic component to your oral health. You can thank your parents if your enamel is thick and strong. If it is resistant to tooth decay, you can thank them again. Even more importantly, you can thank them if they taught you to take care of your teeth.

Like complexions, natural tooth shade varies from person to person. Some of us have whiter teeth naturally. But many men and women have stained teeth due to their lifestyle. Dietary behaviors and dental hygiene influence tooth color as well as overall oral health.

Lifestyle Habits That Affect Tooth Color

Did you know that your enamel is like your skin? It contains pores that can get clogged and discolored. The most common behaviors that work against you are:

  1. Tobacco and other smokable substances
  2. Sodas and other dark-colored drinks, i.e. coffee, red wines, and teas
  3. Not practicing daily oral hygiene
  4. Not having proper dental care

If you want to improve your teeth, the aforementioned practices will consistently work against you.

We prescribe kicking these habits to the curb if you want the whitest teeth possible. (There are compelling health implications as well.)

Acids Weaken Enamel

Another way these habits cause teeth to yellow is due to acids. A continual onslaught of acidic beverages erodes tooth enamel. This is true whether or not the liquids are dark-colored.

Dentin Isn’t The Best Look For Your Smile

The tooth layer under the enamel is called dentin. Unfortunately, dentin is dark yellow. If you are eroding your enamel, you are making it easier to see the yellow dentin. Dentin is also softer and more prone to decay—which is more harmful than a yellow smile.

Jaw Clenching and Teeth Grinding

Jaw clenching can also weaken enamel and contribute to tooth discoloration. If you clench your jaw repeatedly, you are weakening your enamel. Ditto for teeth grinding. Talk to Dr. Buchheit about treatment for these conditions.

Professional Teeth Whitening at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS

Professional in-office teeth whitening is the only way to remove the stains caused by the habits listed. This is due to the intrinsic stains that have permeated the enamel.

The Formula For Whiter Teeth

What’s the formula for whiter teeth?

A healthy lifestyle + twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings + professional teeth whitening

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 8137

Is Your Smile Holding You Back?

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

St. Charles cosmetic smile makeover

Have you ever taken an unexpected trip to the supermarket looking completely disheveled in a rush to purchase an emergency item – say cough medicine or a must-have poster board for your child’s school assignment?

On such an occasion you will inevitably bump into someone you know. How do you feel in your baggy sweatpants and a stained T-shirt? Or worse yet, pajamas.

Our outward appearance affects the way we feel inside. In professional situations, don’t you feel more self-assured when you are wearing flattering, pulled-together business clothes? Aren’t you more likely to voice your opinion when you are comfortable in your own skin?

When meeting someone for the first time, don’t you feel better when you are having a good hair day or have cleared up a recent bout of acne? Blind dates are brutal when you don’t feel at the top of your game.

Attractive clothing, well-groomed hair, and a fit body boost self-assurance for most Florissant folks. But do you know what people notice before any of these characteristics? Your face. Specifically, your smile and eyes. Multiple studies have shown that dazzling teeth and eyes immediately capture attention. Now, it’s difficult to change your eyes unless you get colored contacts. But remarkable smiles are within reach because Florissant dentists can work miracles with innovative cosmetic dentistry.

With specialized training, finely honed skills, modern equipment, and quality lab services, skilled dentists can turn unattractive smiles into stunning first-impressions using a variety of cutting-edge cosmetic dental procedures. Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS patients who have received smile transformations report feeling more confident, more attractive, more effective at work, and happier in their relationships. Some even say that they take more risks and see more success.

If you are not comfortable with your smile, you are probably not aware of the effect it has had on your confidence and self-image. Don’t hide behind an unattractive smile any longer. Call Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS at 314-837-7744 today to schedule an informative cosmetic dental consultation.

You don’t know dental family until you’ve been here

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 6924

3 Tips To Make Brushing Count

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, General Dentistry

St. Charles affordable family dentist

Many of Dr. Martin Buchheit’s patients walk in for cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry. Many for routine checkups and cleanings. And most really want to know if they are brushing properly. Having patients come for treatment and leave with questions answered—from which toothpaste to buy to proper tools and techniques—is our business. At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS we are all about educating our patients. Sometimes life is as easy as 1-2-3.

1 Soft Bristle Toothbrush

Gentle brushing will achieve the same results as hard bristle brushing without abrasive damage to gums and gum lines. There is never a good reason to use hard or medium bristle toothbrushes. Better yet, wet the soft bristle toothbrush to be sure the bristles are soft and pliant before brushing.

2 Minutes of Brushing and Flossing

Split the mouth into fourths and spend a good 30 seconds in each quarter. Hit the chewing surfaces, the inside surfaces, the outside surfaces, and gently massage the gums. Be sure to clean the far side of the back tooth that is never visible but can collect food and allow decay to begin. Take two minutes to floss after brushing in the evening to remove any remnants the toothbrush couldn’t coax out and to clean any build-up. You have approximately 32 teeth and 32 gaps to floss clean. Two minutes should do the trick, but adding an extra minute for good measure can’t hurt.

3 Times a Day

Brushing after every meal should remain the goal. This is difficult for many who are not home for the midday meal. To achieve incredible dental hygiene, brushing is a priority one. There are as many toothpaste choices out there as you have teeth; without consistent brushing and flossing, those teeth are facing sure destruction. Don’t misunderstand, toothpaste is vital. Toothpaste acts as the vehicle that collects the debris, keeps the bristles pliable, fluoridates the mouth, freshens the breath, and a myriad of other side jobs. But after every meal, gently removing food debris prevents breakdown on precious tooth surfaces. Even if you don’t use toothpaste after lunch, a quick brush can keep your teeth free of buildup.

Call 205-933-0323
or
Visit 2149 Charbonier Rd in Florissant, Missouri 63033
or
See us online at http://www.kochparkdental.net/about-us/

Here at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS we understand that nature has dealt crooked teeth, sensitive teeth, and weak teeth to many patients. When you schedule an appointment to meet with Dr. Buchheit, you will be advised on ways to correct your smile.

We provide our patients with the following services and many more: root canals, restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers, Invisalign, and dental implants.

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 6902

Sealants Prevent Cavities For Kids

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Koch Park Dental - Martin L. Buchheit, DDS Sealants Prevent Cavities For Florissant Kids Your child’s first dental exam at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS should occur when the first teeth are in, usually between six months and one year of age. During your child’s first check-up at our Florissant office, we can discuss sealants, a clear layer of plastic applied to the grooved surfaces of the teeth.

Sealants protect the teeth and prevent cavities by filling in the crevasses where food particles can get caught and breed harmful bacteria They are especially effective in the back teeth where most cavities occur.

The application process takes only one short visit at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS. The teeth are cleaned, dried, and then the liquid sealant is applied to the teeth and hardened: it’s quick and painless. Your child will be able to eat right after the appointment.

Sealants are covered by most Missouri dental insurance plans. For St. Louis parents who pay out-of-pocket, sealants are still cost-effective considering the cavities and future visits that can be avoided. Some Missouri dental insurance plans have age limitations for sealants. Check your policy if you are unsure of the qualifications. Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS commonly recommends having sealants applied as early as possible.

If properly cared for, Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS sealants can last for many years, protecting your child during the most cavity-prone ages.

Diligent oral hygiene and refraining from biting into hard objects are essential and will help the sealants last longer. Martin Buchheit will survey the sealants during routine dental visits and recommend re-application or repair if necessary.

Sealants, brushing and flossing, a balanced diet, and twice-yearly Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS dental visits are important for pediatric dental health. For more details about sealants, contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS today.

You don’t know dental family until you’ve been here.

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 3176

Dental Miracles Seen And Unseen At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

white fillings Florissant

Quality dental care and cosmetic dental procedures can be extremely visible. Think porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and teeth whitening. Today, however, let’s discuss some purposefully unseen procedures that can contribute to a healthy, stunning smile. In today’s post, we will review three innovative cosmetic dental treatments: white fillings, invisible braces, and dental implants.

White Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings, white fillings, or invisible fillings are tailored to blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color. These are out of strong composite resins and porcelains. If you would like to get rid of the silver amalgam fillings in your teeth, white fillings are the. You can’t go back and get rid of those cavities, but you can make the silver disappear.

Invisible Braces
Orthodontia has become less visible with the availability of invisible braces. Custom invisible braces are worn either over teeth or behind the teeth. Invisible braces are effective and convenient. Though they are not always the best tooth-straightening option, they have helped many individuals straighten their teeth for a dramatic improvement in their smile.

Dental Implants
Sure, the crown of a tooth implant is clearly visible. But the important part—the component that makes them so much stronger than a dental bridge—is anchored into your jawbone. A titanium post secures your restoration to offer the look, feel, and strength of a natural tooth. If you are missing one or more teeth, think about dental implants.

At Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS we are enthusiastic about creating desirable smiles for our valued dental patients. We provide a full menu of general, preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatments including complete smile makeovers.

Some of our most popular treatments at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS include dental implants, porcelain veneers, and Invisalign. Contact Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS today at 205-933-0323 to schedule an informative consultation.

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 6610

Gum Disease Linked To Alzheimer’s: Keep Those Gums Healthy!

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Gum disease treatment, Restorative Dentistry

gum disease treatment Florissant

As if you needed another reason to keep your gums in first-rate condition.

Scientists have found a link between a bacteria that cause periodontitis (advanced gum disease) and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Porphyomonas gingivalis is a bacteria that often causes chronic periodontitis. The bacteria was discovered in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The research study, “Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors,” can be found at Science Advances.

The researchers concluded:

“Chronic periodontitis and infection with Porphyomonas gingivalis have been identified as significant risk factors for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”

Periodontal disease, frequently called gum disease, is inflammation or infection of the gums. For the most part, periodontal disease is preventable.

Risk factors for periodontal disease include tobacco use, dissatisfactory oral hygiene, genetics, teeth grinding, inflammatory conditions, and poor nutrition.

This study should dispel the misconception that oral health is somehow separate from physical health.

It is important to see your dentist regularly to keep your gums healthy (as well as your teeth). To schedule a periodontal disease exam, call Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS today at 205-933-0323 or visit http://www.kochparkdental.net/about-us/.

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 8096

It’s Not About Vanity

Posted on
Categories: Dental Implants, Invisalign Clear Braces, Teeth Whitening

St. Charles cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Since 1987, Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS has been providing confidence and dignity to our amazing St. Louis and Florissant patients through cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry.

Many Florissant people seem to have it all together with bright eyes and great smiles. We want you to be on the same footing as your friends, colleagues, and customers. Wanting to look your best and feel your best is not about VANITY, it’s about reality in the St. Louis professional community. A dazzling smile creates a favorable first impression and demonstrates polish and attention to detail. These are advantages for Florissant people in every field of work.

Popular ways to achieve such a worthy goal might be found in the services we offer at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS in Florissant. We offer dental implants, porcelain veneers, and Invisalign as ways to improve your confidence and security. Don’t hesitate to ask us about teeth whitening, veneers, sedation, dental implants or any other questions that might be gnawing at you. We’ve got the answers and Dr. Martin Buchheit can set you up with a dental treatment plan that will make your jaw drop!

No matter your age, 35 to 55 – no matter your location from Chesterfield to Maryland Heights to St. Charles – we invite you to see our friendly staff and take the step toward that impressive smile you deserve.

A phone call away at 314-837-7744. Book a consultation today!

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 5680

9 Tips For Preventing Gum Disease

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Emergency dental care, Gum disease treatment

prevent gum disease Florissant

Unfortunately, gum disease is very common. But completely preventable.

Here are some simple ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

If you keep your teeth and gums healthy, you will only need to visit the dentist for cleanings and checkups. Not major treatment.

1. Brush for two to three minutes, at least twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline. Remove the bits of food Don’t brush too hard, but be thorough. Scrubbing your gums aggressively can be painful and is a BIG don’t.

2. Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t like to floss? Try a floss holder, which makes it far less complicated to insert the floss between teeth. But get over your aversion to flossing, unless you want decay or gingivitis (gum disease).

3. Although not a substitute for brushing and flossing, using a mouth rinse can prevent plaque accumulation and keep your enamel strong. Remember that fluoride mouth rinses are not the same as mouthwashes. Mouthwashes have alcohol and are designed to freshen breath. (But they can worsen dry mouth which can cause other problems.)

4. Eat a healthy diet. Starchy and sugary foods increase plaque. A nutritious diet provides the nutrients necessary (vitamins A and C, in particular) to keep teeth and gums healthy.

5. Avoid cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, which may bring about periodontitis (advanced gum disease) or oral cancer. While you’re at it, avoid E-cigs and vapors.

6. Be aware that certain medications can also threaten a healthy smile. These include oral contraceptives, antidepressants, and heart medicines. If your medications are affecting your dental health, talk to Dr. Buchheit.

7. Exercise preventive care and schedule regular exams — the best way to detect early signs of gum disease and make a plan to reverse it.

8. Talk to your dentist about oral health issues such as old, broken fillings, or crowded teeth.

9. If you grind your teeth, talk with Dr. Buchheit about ways to protect your teeth.

Listed above are nine simple ways to ensure your teeth don’t decay, or worse, fall out completely. It’s vital to brush your teeth in the morning and at night. Bonus points for brushing and/or rinsing after lunch. Daily dental hygiene also keeps your breath fresh. Your friends, family, and co-workers will appreciate that.

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 8129