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Archive for July, 2012

Be Wise About Your Wisdom Teeth, Birmingham

Friday, July 27th, 2012

Cosmetic Dentistry Birmingham

Hi, I’m Dr. J. Paul Koch, and today in the Birmingham dental blog we will be discussing the often misunderstood subject of wisdom teeth.

Wisdom teeth are sometimes called the third molars because they are even farther back in the mouth than the two sets of regular molars we all have. These four teeth usually erupt when a person is eighteen or nineteen.

Many dentists in the Birmingham area recommend that wisdom teeth be removed to prevent misplacement in the mouth.

If a wisdom tooth doesn’t fully erupt, it may cause an opening in the gums that can attract bacteria and become infected. Some wisdom teeth are so misplaced that they can actually cause problems with the jaw bone. Both of these conditions cause severe pain.

If you are in the Birmingham area and are wondering if your wisdom teeth need to be removed, call us today at 205-202-8618 to schedule an appointment. We can assess the placement of your wisdom teeth and discuss a treatment plan.

We can also answer any questions you have about smile makeovers. Because there are so many quick and effective cosmetic dentistry procedures available, such as invisible braces, veneers, teeth whitening, and dental implants, anyone in Birmingham can have a perfect smile. I love giving my Birmingham cosmetic dentistry patients the smiles they’ve always wanted.

Thanks for visiting the Birmingham dental blog, and keep Koch Aesthetic Dentistry in mind for your dental needs. We offer:

We hope to see you soon!

Whitening vs Bleaching At Koch Aesthetic Dentistry In Birmingham

Friday, July 20th, 2012

Teeth Whitening Birmingham

Birmingham teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry service that Koch Aesthetic Dentistry provides in-office or through a take home kit. Results vary, but most patients experience significant lightening that lasts up to a year. Our Birmingham area Zoom whitening clients affirm that a whiter smile boosts self confidence and can take years of wear and discoloration away to reveal a brighter smile.

Teeth whitening and teeth bleaching, however, mean two different things in Birmingham cosmetic dentistry. Surface cracks and stains occur on tooth enamel, exposing the yellower dentin below the surface. Discoloration can be the result of the natural aging process, illness, genetics, or dark colored food or drink. Foods and beverages that are both dark colored and acidic – like wine, coffee, and tomato sauce  – have even greater staining power.

Teeth whitener can refer to any product used to remove stains from tooth enamel: toothpaste, do it yourself strips, and certain mouthwashes are safe and inexpensive and can turn teeth whiter with continued, regular use.
The extent of whitening varies, and it takes dedicated, consistent use to see results.

Whitening products that do not contain bleach can usually make teeth two to four shades lighter. These are a good choice for Birmingham men and women with sensitive teeth and gums that can react to products containing harsher whitening chemicals. For pregnant or nursing mothers, the non-bleach whitening products are the safer choice.

Teeth bleaching is used to describe a tooth whitening product that contains a form of bleach, either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, in varying concentrations. For best results, teeth bleaching should done in-office by your Birmingham cosmetic dentist. Bleaching can achieve more noticeable results, sometimes up to seven shades lighter. Intrinsic stains on the dentin, as well as surface stains can be effectively lightened under an experienced Birmingham dentist’s supervision.

Dr. Paul Koch specializes in teeth whitening, teeth bleaching, porcelain veneers, dental crowns, and complete smile redesign. Call the passionate team at Koch Aesthetic Dentistry to schedule a consultation! Bright, sparkling teeth make you want to smile all the time.

Dr. J. Paul Koch
Koch Aesthetic Dentistry
http://www.KochAesthetics.com
The Dental Spa- Providing advanced general and cosmetic dentistry since 2000

Get Your Teeth In Shape, Birmingham!

Friday, July 13th, 2012

Dental Spa Birmingham

These days Birmingham residents are more conscious of their health than ever. Many of us are trying to stay active, eat a balanced diet, and better manage stress. When you feel healthy, attractive, and happy, you smile more often. You want your smile to compliment and enhance your physical and mental condition. Here at our Koch Aesthetic Dentistry dental spa, we want to make sure that those in the Birmingham area have healthy, attractive teeth.

Eating right is a great step toward optimal oral health in the 35205 zip code area. A balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in nutrients will support dental health at every age. And, of course, water is always the beverage of choice for those who want healthy teeth.

Daily brushing and flossing are essential healthy habits for your mouth. Also, regular check-ups and cleanings with your Birmingham cosmetic dentist are a must.

Another way to get those teeth looking beautiful is by undergoing some routine cosmetic dentistry procedures. If you want to close spaces between the teeth, improve your gumline, or repair chips or cracks in the teeth, then dental bonding, gum recontouring, crowns, or porcelain veneers might be what you’re looking for.

I’m Dr. J. Paul Koch, a gentle, passionate Birmingham dentist. I have been taking excellent care of Birmingham area smiles since 2000. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible. I also want them to look their best, so if you have any questions about a smile makeover, give us a call at 205-202-8618.

Alabama Dental Patients, Take Care Of Your Toothbrush!

Friday, July 6th, 2012

Cosmetic Dentistry Alabama

The common household toothbrush. Every Alabama home has at least one, and hopefully all Alabama residents are brushing their teeth after each meal. While cosmetic dentistry and a complete smile makeover seem to be all the rage these days, daily brushing is still the most important thing you can do for your oral health.

It has been said that each toothbrush can contain millions of bacteria. But don’t worry, those bacteria come from our mouths, which harbor equal amounts of bacteria. For a person with a healthy immune system, these bacteria pose no threat.

However, a few common sense tips might keep any unnecessary germs from affecting the toothbrushes of Alabama dental patients.

First, be sure to store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, and close the toilet lid before flushing. Each flush of the toilet releases a spray of bacteria into the air, so it’s best to just eliminate the spray.

Next, since bacteria like a moist environment, store your toothbrush upright and without a travel case so that it can dry completely between uses.

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Brushing and flossing are the key to good oral health, and doing both each day will keep Alabama dental patients’ risk for gum disease, cavities, and bad breath low.

Keep your smile bright by visiting Koch Aesthetic Dentistry regularly and practicing proper oral hygiene.

Dr. J. Paul Koch has been a cosmetic and dental implant dentist in Alabama since 2000. We can answer any questions you have about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and clear braces.

Call to schedule an appointment today!