Family Dentistry

Afraid of the Dentist? 5 Ways to Reduce Dental Anxiety

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum disease treatment

dental anxiety treatment Florissant

Talk to your dentist

There’s something about having knowledge on anything unknown that makes us feel less afraid or at least more self-assured handling the unknown. If you consider dentistry an unknown topic, maybe you can educate yourself by asking your dentist lots of questions. Find a dentist willing to listen to your fearful thoughts and concerns so they can better assure you there isn’t much to worry about. Usually, when we talk about our fears someone with more information can help by reducing our dread. They may even eliminate it completely by showing our thoughts to be entirely irrational.

Meditate

Studies show how incorporating a 10-minute meditation routine can improve our overall feeling of wellness considerably. Think of meditation as a way for you to focus on the present moment and be comfortable with a subtle feeling of relaxation. This will provide a sense of tranquility we don’t always experience in our day-to-day lives. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I dedicated time to concentrate on the present moment and simply watch life pass, instead of trying to control everything.” With meditation, we can tune in to our natural way of being and more easily distinguish the difference between a real-life threat or an anxious thought.

Bring a friend or family member to your appointments

Sometimes modifying your environment in a way that’s more familiar will reduce anxiety. A great way of doing this is to bring someone familiar to your dental appointments who can offer emotional support. This could be a close friend or family member who understands how you feel. You should bring someone who is prepared to talk you out of negative thinking patterns. Your companion ideally will realize they are there for you and that this isn’t so much about the two of you hanging out socializing. Make sure they are up to the challenge!

Practice good oral hygiene

By having first-rate oral hygiene you can feel more confident about your next visit to the dentist. With excellent dental care, you can go into the dentist with a lower chance of having a root canal or being diagnosed with gingivitis, the onset of periodontal disease. See why these conditions may worsen your anxiety? If you were diagnosed with gingivitis, your mind would have logical reasons for feeling apprehensive which is not what we want. However, if you’ve been doing the regular brushing and flossing as recommended then there isn’t as much to fret about.

Seek out a therapist

Are you feeling anxious all the time or just while at the dentist’s? Seeking out a therapist may help with dental anxiety. Your therapist may counsel adjusting your daily routine to help fight both dental anxiety and any anxiety from day-to-day life. Or, your dentist may suggest specific techniques to focus on while at the dentist. The 3-2-1 technique involves naming 3 things you can hear, followed by 3 you can see, and lastly, things you can feel. Then you reduce the numbers to 2, then 1. This is a beneficial exercise you can do while in a dentist’s office or anywhere you may feel anxious.

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 8533

Think You Know How To Brush? Think Again.

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum disease treatment

Florissant tooth brushing tips

You’ve been doing it since you were five. You switch to autopilot morning and night and go through it. But are you doing it right?

Actually, many men and women are making tooth brushing mistakes. You may need to tweak your routine to better support your oral health and protect your smile from decay and gum disease.

Here are important tooth brushing tips:

1. Take your time.
It’s understandable. You want to get it over with and go to bed. Proper teeth cleaning takes time and careful attention. Time yourself the next time you brush—you might be surprised at how rapidly you finish. The process should take at least two to three minutes. It can also be useful to take a different route around your mouth every few days. By altering your pattern, you approach areas from a different, and possibly, better angle.

2. Don’t forget to floss.
No matter how agile you can be with your brush, it’s problematic to eliminate the plaque from all those narrow gaps between your teeth. That is where bacteria can easily increase and start the decay process.

3. Use the right toothbrush.
It is ironic that some people damage their enamel or gums because they brush too hard with a hard brush. Dr. Buchheit counsels patients to only use a soft brush. If you’ve had gum grafts, you may want to use an extra soft brush.

4. Don’t keep your toothbrush near the toilet.
This is terrible to think about, but each time the toilet is flushed, bacteria is sent far into the air—even if you close the lid. Keep your toothbrush in a clean place and allow it to air dry.

5. Use fluoride toothpaste.
This may seem like a no-brainer but you may be surprised that some oral care products don’t contain fluoride. And you may think it’s only for kids. Not true. Your enamel is constantly under assault from acidic foods and drinks and fluoride helps it remineralize.

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 7193

Sealants Prevent Cavities For Kids

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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

5 Cavity Basics

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Categories: Emergency dental care, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

St. Louis Cosmetic Dentist

The desire to prevent tooth decay is one of the main reasons men and women visit their dentists

Today we are going to discuss 5 things you need to know about cavities.

1. Cavities are also called caries or tooth decay. When a tooth is permanently damaged on the hard surface, tiny openings ensue. These little holes are cavities.

2. Factors that contribute to tooth decay are:

Frequent eating
Consuming sugary beverages
Oral bacteria
Poor dental hygiene

3. Cavities may get so bad that you will see pits or holes in your teeth, but symptoms may be more subtle, such as sensitivity, pain when biting, or a toothache. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should call your dentist today to request an appointment.

4. Cavities are more common among youngsters, but that doesn’t mean adults don’t have to take precautions.

5. Avoiding cavities is simple. Be sure to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, eat right, avoid frequent snacking, and have regular visits with your dentist.

If you are in the market for quality dental care in the Florissant area, give Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS a call. We have been treating dental patients in and around St. Louis since 1987.

 

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 4786

How Oral Inflammation Affects Your Health

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, Gum disease treatment

inflamed gums Florissant

Swollen and painful gums are symptoms of periodontal disease, an inflammatory gum disease. Swelling occurs from an auto-immune response of the body reacting to an infection. Infections are noticeable through pain, redness, and warmth. If the infection is left untreated, it can affect the bone near the teeth. The body’s immune system wants to rid the bone of the harmful material the bacteria is creating. Over time, bone loss will develop.

Inflammation in the gums also is associated with atherosclerosis, the occurrence of fatty deposits inside of the body’s arteries. Inflammation coincides with an increase of the blood protein CRP (C-reactive protein), produced by the liver. The more inflammation there is, the more the liver produces CRP. The more CRP present, the more likely cardiovascular disease is present, along with related dilemmas. CRP production is also related to arthritis, auto-immune disorders, and intestinal problems.

Scientists are currently looking into the relationship between periodontal inflammation and CRP level and the effects outside of the oral cavity. Links have already been discovered between periodontal disease and pancreatic cancer, heart disease, and stroke.

If inflammation is left untreated, gums can develop pockets that provide the perfect breeding ground for infection. The longer the infection persists, the more likely bone loss will arise, eventually causing tooth loss.

It is crucial to practice preventive dental care daily at home and have regular visits to the dentist. Dental appointments should include an exam, cleaning, and full mouth x-rays, along with the vital knowledge and instruction on how to properly care for teeth and gums at home. It is also very important to see your dentist ASAP if a tooth suddenly becomes sensitive or you see any other changes.

Thanks for visiting our blog. For more specifics about inflammation or periodontal disease, give us a call at 205-933-0323.

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 7095

5 Tips For Treating Mouth Sores

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Prevent Mouth Sores Chesterfield

Hi. I’m Dr. Martin Buchheit. When my patients get mouth sores, I guide them to evaluate what they’re eating and make some changes. By following these tips, you too can avoid the discomfort of eating and help to increase the speed of healing.

1. Eat soft or pureed foods. Don’t worry, you won’t have to eat baby food—plenty of adult dishes fit the bill:

cream soups
yogurt
hot cereal
mashed potatoes
puddings

2. Keep your meals bland for a while. I know it’s humdrum, but watch out for overly spicy, tart, salty or acidic foods while you have a mouth sore.

3. Also, keep it cool. Only eat dishes served at room temperature or chilled.

4. Use a straw so that whatever you are drinking can avoid the mouth sore altogether.

5. Try to moisten dry foods. You can add sauces, dressings, and gravies to your meals.

I hope that these suggestions will help you the next time you suffer from a mouth sore. If you are looking for a dentist in the St. Louis area, consider my practice, Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS. We have been serving Florissant since 1987.

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 4628

Does Your Teen Have Unique Dental Challenges?

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Invisalign Clear Braces

adolescent dental health

When it comes to oral health, adolescence is a pivotal time for Florissant youth. On the upside, the last of the permanent teeth come in providing young men and women with their “adult smile.” Good habits can be forged and reinforced. Teeth can be corrected with orthodontia, providing increased confidence when it is often sorely needed.

On the downside, some youth take up habits that are dangerous to their teeth. Adolescents often don’t understand the importance of proper dental hygiene and how it influences lifelong oral health. Some young Florissant men and women develop teenage tooth decay that can cause recurring dental dilemmas in later years.

Unfortunately, eating disorders are far too common among teenagers. Bulimia can cause enamel erosion, decay, and even complete tooth loss. We strongly advise parents to intervene immediately and seek appropriate medical care if they suspect their teen has an eating disorder.

The importance of diet cannot be overstated. Adolescence is a time when many young men and women decrease their calcium intake—a danger to both bones and teeth. The consumption of energy drinks and sugared soda also contribute to tooth and gum problems in teenagers.

Moreover, adolescents that use tobacco and illegal drugs have an increased risk of decay and oral cancer. Oral piercings can be extremely detrimental. The health risks include tooth and gum damage, infection, allergic reactions, nerve damage, and excessive swelling that can block airways.

Teens who are undergoing orthodontic treatment often have a difficult time normally cleaning their teeth. It is a challenge to fit toothbrush bristles and floss under dental hardware. Toothbrushes and flossing devices that squirt water can help adolescents with braces adequately clean their teeth and gums.

Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS advises Missouri parents to make sure their teenagers receive twice-yearly dental exams and cleanings. Martin Buchheit can identify and treat oral issues in their early stages so that further damage can be prevented or minimized.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following critical guidelines for adolescent oral health:

Teens should drink fluoridated water.
Fluoride supplementation is recommended for high-risk teens that don’t have access to fluoridated water (up to age 16).
Teens should use fluoridated toothpaste twice a day.
Teens should floss daily.1

To schedule an extensive teen dental examination and cleaning, call Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS at 205-933-0323. The team of friendly dental professionals at Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS is passionate about oral health for Florissant children and teens.

1“Protecting All Children’s Teeth, Oral Health in Adolescence,” http://www2.aap.org/oralhealth/pact/

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 6685

Protect Your Enamel, Protect Your Teeth

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Categories: Clear braces, Dental Health, Family Dentistry

protect kids tooth enamel Florissant

Your enamel is uniquely suited to safeguard your teeth. If you keep your tooth enamel healthy, you will avoid many dental ailments. You won’t get cavities. Your teeth will be less likely to chip or crack. You will avoid many causes of tooth stains.

It’s best to form enamel-healthy habits when you’re young.

Teach your youngster to protect their tooth enamel. There is a multitude of collateral health benefits as well.

For Healthy Tooth Enamel, Avoid The Following

Frequently Eating Sticky Food

Gummy candy, protein bars, and dried fruit can break teeth.

Chewing On Hard Foods

For example, Beef jerky and hard or stale bread.

Grinding Teeth

If you grind your teeth, talk about it with your dentist. It can cause headaches, tooth damage, and gum recession. An appliance can protect your enamel.

Drinking Anything Besides Water Frequently

If your teeth are awash in carbonated beverages (sugared or diet), juice, coffee, or sports drinks habitually, your enamel will suffer from the acids and sugar.

Playing Sports Without a Mouthguard

Sports pose a major risk of tooth damage. Custom-fitted mouthguards from your dentist are more comfortable than the boil-and-bite type.

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 8136

When Should My Child Visit Our Florissant Dentist?

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Categories: Emergency dental care, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

When Should My Child Visit Our Dentist?

Many parents in the St. Louis area wonder when it is right for their child to see the dentist for the first time.

What does the ADA say?

The American Dental Association recommends that kids visit the dentist around their first birthday, a little earlier than some parents may anticipate.

Early visits with St. Charles, Maryland Heights, and Chesterfield dental professionals help ensure that children are getting every advantage when it comes to oral health.

When do I start brushing my child’s teeth?

When your child gets his first tooth, it is time to brush. Parents should use non-fluoride toothpaste until the child is two years old. Then, use only a tiny dab. Young children often swallow toothpaste while brushing. If a child ingests too much fluoride, teeth can become stained.

Prevent dental anxiety

It’s also important that kids are comfortable with the dentist’s office. If they go for regular checkups and cleanings, children will be more likely to avoid a fear of the dentist. If they don’t visit a dentist until they have a dental problem that is causing pain, they are more likely to associate the dentist with pain and fear. Just as well-child check-ups, dental exams, and cleanings should be routine or every child.

What does the dentist do at the check-up if my child doesn’t have a cavity?

The goal is to make sure your child never gets a cavity. In these early visits, St. Louis area pediatric dentists usually clean the child’s teeth, apply fluoride, and assess any oral health risks that may be present, such as baby bottle tooth decay. This condition can be avoided by having your child transition from bottle to cup at an early age.

When your child gets their rear molars, your pediatric dentist will discuss dental sealants. These are some of the best ways to keep your child’s teeth cavity-free.

Martin Buchheit wants to help Florissant families raise healthy, happy kids. Keep your child’s smile healthy, St. Louis!

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 4186

The ADA: Promoting Dental Health Since 1859

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

American Dental Association Florissant

Hello, thank you for visiting the Koch Park Dental – Martin L. Buchheit, DDS blog. I’m Dr. Martin Buchheit. Along with my fantastic team, I have been providing trusted dental care since 1987.

Today’s message is about the American Dental Association. You have probably seen the ADA symbol on toothpaste and floss—but what else do you know about this dental institution?

The ADA’s self-proclaimed objective is to improve the level of public oral health by supporting the dental industry through not-for-profit federal, state, and local chapters. It was formed in 1859 and is run by its members, which currently total over 160,000.

The ADA Seal of Acceptance is not an endorsement of a product per se, but rather is a confirmation of the claims made by said product. Companies who want the ADA credential for a product must submit proof of rigorous scientific testing. Once submitted, the ADA re-tests the product to further verify the results. There are currently over 300 products with the ADA certification.

The ADA does more than evaluate dental products. Here are some other ways the ADA works to carry out its mission:

  • Provides resources to support dentists and their practices
  • Educates the public about oral health
  • Works to expand access to dental care
  • Offers advice on critical issues that affect the dental industry
  • Works with other organizations on scientific research projects and public health initiatives
  • Offers scholarships to dental students

For more information about the ADA, visit http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada

Source:
http://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada

 

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 7411