Best Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

best cosmetic dentistry solutions - dentist Lexington KY

Different Cosmetic Dental Procedures 

Different Cosmetic Dental Procedures 

If you want to enhance your smile, cosmetic dentistry may be the perfect solution for you. In the article below, we share a few cosmetic dentistry treatments your dentist in Lexington, KY may recommend. 

Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a quick and easy treatment that can brighten your smile up to 10 shades. We offer two kinds of teeth whitening services at Park Hills Family Dentistry, in-office and take home whitening. Get rid of those stubborn stains and book a teeth whitening consultation today!

Dental Veneers

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite material. They are specially made and cemented over the tooth. A veneer can significantly improve the look and feel of your smile. Think of dental veneers as a cap. It protects and covers your tooth, hiding imperfections. Those who have severe tooth decay, stubborn stains, or generally don’t like the look of their teeth should consider dental veneers. Our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, agrees that dental veneers will change the overall look and function of your smile. It’s a treatment you should consider if you lack confidence in your smile. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. The implant is made out of titanium and is surgically placed into the jawbone. The implant acts as the root of your natural tooth and then is capped with a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Note that dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth, unlike dentures.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are designed to restore and strengthen your tooth. They’re an affordable solution to poorly formed, decayed, chipped teeth. Dr. Kim will custom make your dental crown to match your natural tooth’s shape, size, and color. The final result will look so identical to your other teeth, no one will notice. 

Dental Bonding

Tooth bonding is one of the most affordable cosmetic procedures available. This treatment goes a long way and can make your teeth look as good as new. Dental bonding is a great solution to badly stained, broken, or chipped teeth. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry for a consultation today.

Clear Aligners

Achieving a smile that is beautiful and cohesive is a goal for many. Invisalign or Clear Aligners are a great way to straighten your smile in a discreet way. These removable trays are not only more comfortable than traditional braces, but also more effective and efficient. 

Park Hills Family Dentistry 

Interested in a new and improved smile? Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, for a consultation! Dr. Kim and her team will work with you to find the best solution for you. Contact us  today to let us know how we can assist you with your dental needs.

How Your Dentist Can Help With Snoring

sleep apnea lexington KY

How Your Dentist Can Help With Snoring 

How Your Dentist Can Help with Snoring

Snoring can be annoying to anyone who is trying to sleep near you. It could also be a symptom of a dangerous condition called obstructive sleep apnea. If you think you may suffer from sleep apnea, consult your Lexington KY dentist, and see how your dentist can help with snoring.

Snoring can be Debilitating

If you have sleep apnea, your throat and tongue will collapse on the back of your throat, blocking your airway, and stopping you from breathing. This will cause you to frequently wake up in the middle of the night due to breathing trouble. When left untreated, sleep apnea can cause excessive daytime fatigue, headache and memory loss.

Risk of Serious Health Problems 

Untreated sleep apnea raises your risk of more serious health problems, including:

  • High blood pressure, high blood pressure
  • Illness of the heart
  • Diabetes
  • Chronic acid reflux
  • Erectile Disorder

Sleep apnea is not a condition that should go untreated explains sleep dentist Parker CO, Dr. Christopher Green. A lot of people who snore don’t have obstructive sleep apnea, but getting tested is the only way to be safe. 

Snoring or Sleep Apnea 

Our Lexington KY dentist can tell if you have obstructive sleep apnea or simple snoring by taking a sleep study. Regardless of the results, Dr. Jinyoung Kim can treat both sleep apnea or snoring with our Silent Nite snore prevention device approved by the American Dental Association.

Sleep-disordered breathing can occur at different levels of severity and can affect your sleep and health to varying degrees. Whether you need to treat sleep apnea or simply relieve snoring, it’s very likely that we can help.

The Silent Nite appliance is worn in the mouth only while you sleep and fits like a sports mouthguard or an orthodontic bracket. It supports the lower jaw into a forward position by means of special connectors that are attached to transparent flexible upper & lower forms. The fit is excellent and comfortable.

Quality of Life 

The experience of having a restful sleep can be life-changing. We also hear from a lot of grateful partners!

At Parks Hills Family Dentistry, we specialize in the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea. We provide our Lexington KY patients with state-of-the-art sleeping appliances. If you’re having trouble sleeping, contact us today! 

Benefits of Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide treatment Lexington KY

Benefits of Nitrous Oxide Treatments 

What Are the Benefits of Nitrous Oxide Treatments?

Did you know that many people are suffering from dental anxiety? Dental anxiety is a condition in which you feel scared or overcome by stress before you visit your dentist. Luckily, there are multiple treatments that help those with dental anxiety, including sedation dentistry, and meditation. If you’re looking for a mild sedative, there are many benefits of nitrous oxide.

What is Nitrous Oxide?

Nitrous oxide is highly effective for individuals seeking a mild relaxant during dental treatment. Even if you are only undergoing an examination or a professional dental cleaning, nitrous oxide may be administered. Many people know this as “laughing gas”. Laughing gas is considered the only sedative in dentistry safe enough to be used to allow a patient to drive home after treatment, explains Dr. Beth Herko, our friend and owner of a sedation dentistry in New Providence, NJ.

How Do Dentists Administer Nitrous Oxide? 

Inhaled gas treatment is given by putting a mask over the mouth and nose that is breathed in. Even if you suffer from extreme stress, the mildest forms of laughter can have a calming effect. However, laughing gas can be a mild relaxant, and it can produce a feeling of lightness.
If you would like to schedule a nitrous oxide sedation in Lexington KY, Park Hills Family Dentistry is the perfect place for you. Dr. Jinyoung Kim has worked with many patients that suffer from dental anxiety and does everything she can to make your dental visits comfortable. Contact us today! 

Gum Disease Must-Knows

gum disease must-knows

Gum Disease Must-Knows 

Gum Disease Must-Knows

In honor of Gum Disease Awareness Month, Dr. Kim is sharing gum disease must-knows! If you’re not familiar with gum disease, it’s one of the most common dental problems in the world. In fact, more than 40% of adults in the U.S. have gum disease. Most dentists in Lexington, KY would rather you prevent gum disease than treat it. Here are few answers to the questions often asked about gum disease. 

What’s Gum Disease?

Gum disease is also referred to as periodontal disease, which is a very common dental condition. Those who develop gum disease have a good amount of plaque build-up. Plaque may be extracted by shaving, flossing, and mouthwash regularly and thoroughly. Even with great oral habits, it is still necessary to get a good dental cleaning every six months from your Lexington, KY dentist.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gingivitis or gum disease is usually caused by bad habits:

  • Poor oral health habits
  • Uses of tobacco products such as chewing tobacco or smoking
  • Medications: Our friend, Dr. Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, says that gingivitis is a side effect of some steroids, anti-epilepsy products, calcium channel blocks, birth control, and cancer drugs.
  • Genetics: many individuals are naturally more vulnerable to gum disease.

Signs of Gum Disease

Although there are several stages of gum disease, the symptoms are pretty straight forward. First, you’ll notice that your gums start to bleed when you brush or floss. As the gum disease progresses, your gums will start to recede and bleed after doing everyday tasks like chewing. They will become swollen and red. If gum disease is left untreated, your teeth will eventually fall out. It’s important to stop gum disease as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

The three effective ways to avoid gum disease are by cleaning your teeth, flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist in Lexington, KY for a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Many normal citizens would not know whether they develop gum disease. That’s why it’s necessary to see Dr. Kim. There is a widespread belief that if you wash and floss daily, there is no risk of having dental problems. Since certain causes of gum disease are not specifically related to oral health, preventative dentistry is necessary. If you live in Lexington, KY, give our dental office a call to set up an appointment! Our team is happy to help you and your family with any dental concerns.

Kids’ Oral Health Tips

Kids oral health tips

Kids' Oral Health Tips 

Kids’ Oral Health Tips

As a parent, you most likely have your child’s wellness in their best interest. One thing that many family dentists in Lexington, KY stress are happy and healthy smiles. It can be a major struggle to get your child to take good care of their teeth, but we have just what you need. Below, Dr. Kim shares a few kids oral health tips you can implement just in time for National Children’s Oral Health Month! 

Brush Twice a Day

It may be an obvious oral health tip, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to brush their teeth twice a day. If your child isn’t brushing their teeth twice a day, help them develop a routine before gum disease emerges. Kids will typically start brushing on their own around six years old. By then, you’ll just need to check their teeth. 

Replace Your Toothbrush Annually 

A good toothbrush is a secret to good oral health. You want to choose a soft bristle brush that won’t damage their gums. You’ll need to replace toothbrushes every three months or when the bristles begin to fray. Bacteria will start to build up, and frayed bristles aren’t effective. If your little one is feeling unmotivated about brushing their teeth for two whole minutes, try purchasing a toothbrush that plays music or has their favorite toy character on it.

Floss Daily 

Too many people would rather skip flossing, but many dentists like Dr. Neda, a family dentist in Georgetown, KY, says it’s more important than brushing. Dr. Kim recommends flossing at night so that you can catch any extra food debris in your teeth. Pro tip: get a floss pick to save time!

Visit Your Family Dentist in Lexington, KY

You and your child should visit your family dentist every six months for regular cleaning and check-up. Following a good oral hygiene routine is only half of what is needed for good oral health. During these visits, Dr. Kim will take x-rays and examine your kid’s mouth for cavities or other dental problems arising. Preventative dentistry visits are absolutely necessary.

Avoid Sugary Drinks

There is a lot of sugar in juices and soda. Look at the nutrition facts next time you have your hands on one of these drinks. It’s okay to have sugary drinks on occasion, but everyday consumption will negatively affect your child’s teeth and health – aka cavities. Cavities tend to thrive off sugar, which is why we recommend hydrating with water often!

Discourage Tobacco Products

It’s never too soon to talk to your children about the harms of tobacco products. Cigarettes, nicotine, chew, and vape pens have become very popular. Talk to your kids early on about the effects and why they need to just say no. Using nicotine raises the risk of contracting gum disease and cancer of the mouth, and it can color your teeth in an unsightly yellow or brown way. Avoiding nicotine is not only a healthy oral health tip. It’s also a good life tip.

Now that you’ve picked up some kids’ oral health tips for Children’s Oral Health Month, you can take charge of your family’s oral health! If you need dental services in Lexington, KY, or have any questions, please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry! 

Advantages of Botox & Fillers

botox and filler Lexington ky

Advantages of Botox
& Filler 

Advantages of Botox & Fillers at the Dentist

Botox is a distilled type of botulinum toxin produced by bacteria. While it is deadly in larger quantities, the small controlled amount of Botox given helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines. There are many advantages of botox and fillers at the dentist. In the article below, Dr. Jin Young Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, shares everything you need to know about this cosmetic treatment.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox operates by blocking nerve impulses in the muscles where the nerve is injected. When these nerve impulses are disrupted, the affected muscle is partially paralyzed or frozen. The lack of movement allows certain wrinkles can be softened, diminished, or even removed. That’s why so many people opt-in for this treatment.

What is Botox Able to Correct?

Botox acts only on wrinkles created by muscle movement. These are known as complex wrinkles and are also referred to as speech lines. The most common dynamic wrinkles that Botox commonly treats are lines on the upper lip, such as the “11” between the brows, the horizontal lines on the forehead, and the crow’s legs. These lines form over time due to smiling, frowning, squinting, and other face features.

Unfortunately, Botox will not work on fine lines and wrinkles that are caused by sagging or fainting. They are known as static wrinkles. Static wrinkles include lines in the cheeks, collar, and jowl area. Botox is not a permanent cure. Repeated treatments are important for sustained wrinkle-reducing effects. Most people find that Botox lasts for 3 to 4 months.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are also commonly known as soft tissue fillers. These are substances meant to be inserted under the surface of the skin to add bulk and fullness.

Substances used in dermal fillers shall include:

  • Calcium hydroxylapatite, a mineral-like compound found in bones.
  • Hyaluronic acid, which is present in some of the body’s fluids and tissues, adds plumpness to the skin.
  • Polyalkylimide is a translucent gel that is comfortable with the body.
  • Polylactic acid, which causes the skin to create more collagen.
  • Polymethyl-methacrylate microsphere (PMMA), a semi-permanent filler
  • Each of these is intended to address various symptoms of aging or other cosmetic issues.

They often differ in the time they take to work, as well as how long they last. Some fillers last for 6 months, while others last for up to 2 years or longer.

Our friends at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, a cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, agrees that patients should address their particular needs and desires with their physician in order to decide which filler will be the best option for them.

What Do Dermal Fillers Do?

Various forms of dermal fillers are formulated to treat various symptoms of aging. Depending on the filler you have chosen, they may:

  • Plump the thinning lips
  • Enhance or fill in shallow areas of the face
  • Decrease or remove the shadow or wrinkle under the eye caused by the lower eyelid.
  • Fill or soften the appearance of the recessed scars.
  • Fill or soften the static wrinkles, particularly on the lower face.
  • Static wrinkles are those around the mouth and along the cheeks. These wrinkles are typically the result of a loss of collagen and skin elasticity.

Botox vs. Fillers

In summary, dentists can agree that the variations between botox and fillers are as follows:

  • Botox: This freezes muscles to stop wrinkles and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. Usually, they are located in the upper face, such as the forehead and around the eyes. Botox effects last for 3 to 4 months. 
  • Dermal fillers: Uses hyaluronic acid and similar substances for filling in or plumping areas that have lost volume and smoothness. This involves lines around the mouth, thin lips, and cheeks that have lost their fullness. They can also be used on forehead wrinkles, scars, and other areas that need extra volume for a smoother look. The effects of the dermal filler differ depending on which filler is used.

Since Botox and fillers are separate agents for different applications, Botox and fillers can often combine them in one procedure. For example, someone may use Botox to correct the lines between the eyes and the filler to correct the smile’s lines around the mouth. If you’re interested in getting botox and fillers in Lexington, KY, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today! Our professional will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to seeing you soon. 

What is Root Canal Therapy

root canal therapy Lexington ky

What is Root Canal Therapy? 

What is Root Canal Therapy? 

For many patients at our dental office in Lexington, KY, hearing “root canal” during a dental exam and consultation may seem a little scary. Don’t worry. Root canals have come a long way, and it’s actually one of the best ways to save an infected tooth. Below, Dr. Jin Young Kim answers common questions about root canal therapy.

Common Questions About Root Canal Therapy

Many people have initial concerns about root canal therapy. Our team is happy to answer any of your questions or concerns. If you’re feeling uneasy about treatment, we offer sedation dentistry options as well. Here are some of our patients’ most frequent questions:

Why Do I Need a Root Canal?

It is important to extract the pulp found inside the inner part of the tooth when the inside of the tooth becomes infected. In the center of the tooth, infection and inflammation may occur due to decay spreading across the tooth, a crack or chip, or several dental procedures on that tooth. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to extreme tooth pain, tooth abscess, and tooth loss. Our friends at Gentle Dental Group, a dental office in Bethlehem, GA, recommend seeing your dentist before the tooth decay progresses into something worse.

Does Root Canal Therapy Hurt?

Root canal therapy is no more painful than doing a regular filling. This therapy helps to alleviate the constant pain experienced when contaminated with the tooth. During the procedure, the local region would be numbed, allowing you a pain-free feeling while the work is done.

Should I Get a Tooth Extraction or a Root Canal?

Other dental problems may arise from an infected tooth, which is why prompt care is crucial. . But we urge patients whenever possible to preserve their natural teeth. With dental bridges and dental implants, though tooth replacement is available, nothing is as good as your natural tooth. Medication for the root canal helps you to retain the initial tooth and prevent tooth extraction. Additionally, relative to the extraction cost followed by an implant or bridge to replace the tooth, a root canal is easier.

Does a Root Canal Damage My Natural Tooth?

The removal of the inner portion of the tooth weakens the tooth’s overall structure. But with dental restorations, like an onlay or dental crown, it can be strengthened. A tooth extraction is an alterantive to root canal, but we will do everything we can to save your natural teeth. We will ensure that your natural tooth is strengthened by recommending the right restorative treatment post therapy. This is most commonly a dental crown.

What Can I Expect Post Root Canal?

You may not experience the same intense pain that was present before the root canal until the numbing wears off. They’ve replaced the inner nerves, offering you relaxation. Many individuals find that, although the underlying tissues are healing, you may be tender for a few days. Dr. Kim says that it may be good to consume soft foods and take over-the-counter pain medicine.

If you have more concerns about root canals or your oral health, please feel free to contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY. Our team of professionals will help eliminate the plan and restore your smile. 

Benefits of Invisalign

benefits of Invisalign

Benefits of Invisalign 

Benefits of Invisalign Clear Aligners

Patients have been straightening their teeth with traditional braces for years. Luckily, Invisalign clear aligners are the next best thing. Now, patients are able to repair crooked teeth with removable aligner trays. This modern dental technology provides patients with a more efficient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing treatment. Below, Dr. Kim, a cosmetic dentist in Lexington, KY, shares the benefits of Invisalign aligners.

Why Invisalign? 

For a lot of people trying to repair their crooked smile with traditional braces puts a big burden on their social life. Luckily, Invisalign aligners treat many dental problems such as crooked teeth, overbites, and crowded teeth. Misaligned teeth can lead to major dental problems if left untreated. That’s why dentists in Lexington, KY, suggest starting your orthodontic treatment before it’s too late.

Straight teeth decrease the risk of periodontal disease, a gum disease that may become serious enough to break down bone jaw tissue. This risk is minimized as straight teeth are easier to clean, removing harmful bacteria. Dr. Ben Kacos, an emergency dentist in Shreveport, LA, says that straight teeth help you to chew properly and prevent uneven grinding on your teeth. Straight teeth also match the mouth, which decreases pain and discomfort. Having straight teeth can also help clear airways and help people with sleep apnea.

Clear Aligners

There are so many benefits to Invisalign. Before we get into these benefits, let’s discuss how Invisalign is used. With new scanning technologies, your Lexington, KY dentist will use a dental scanner to scan your teeth and build custom clear aligners. Created with a medical-grade polyurethane resin, Invisalgin is virtually invisable. Every aligner is a custom fit designed for your teeth to slowly bring them to their position.

Invisible aligners must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours per day. Although they’re removable, they can’t straighten teeth unless you’re wearing them. It may be an adjustment at first, but they should be taken out during meals, and at any time you eat or drink something other than cold water. If correctly worn, most treatments last between 12 – 18 months. Luckily, in the first three months, you will begin to see changes in your teeth.

Benefits of Invisalign in Lexington, KY

Better Comfort

Removable clear aligners are way more comfortable than traditional braces. How? Patients often complain that their traditional metal brackets cut into their lips and cheeks. They can leave sores that are hard to heal. Your Lexington, KY dentist may recommend adding wax to the outside brackets. If you want to avoid this, try Invisalign instead.

Invisible aligners often have more direct control over straightening the teeth due to their custom fit. During your treatment, Dr. Kim will provide you with a series of aligners. Over time, these aligners will move your teeth and correct your smile.

Better Dental Hygiene

One of the best advantages of Invisalign is that it helps you to take better care of your teeth. After all, a happy smile is a healthy smile. Our goal is to enhance your smile while keeping tooth decay and gum disease at bay. With traditional metal braces, pieces of food and plaque are stuck around and inside brackets that are difficult to clean properly. If you are more susceptible to dental decay, consider Invisalign over traditional braces. With Invisalign, you can remove the aligners and continue with your daily dental routine. Flossing and brushing can all be carried out normally.

Boosts Self-Confidence

The most common reason for someone to straighten their teeth is the aesthetic appeal. Your smile are one of the first things you look at when you wake up, and your smile is the first thing that other people remember. If you don’t feel good about your teeth and smile, you won’t feel confident about yourself. Significant evidence suggests that straightening your teeth can improve self-esteem, particularly for teenagers.

Another advantage of invisible aligners is that they are made of translucent resin to match the teeth perfectly. This means that they’re virtually invisible because many people don’t even know that you’re straightening your teeth, unlike traditional braces. Teenagers may feel more self-conscious about their smile if they choose traditional braces.

Fewer Dental Visits

With conventional braces, you also need to see an orthodontic surgeon make sure the braces are fitted correctly. These visits can involve removing and replacing the bracket, adjusting the size of the wire, tightening specific brackets, and even wiring specific brackets together with extra wire. You could end up spending hours of your time waiting in your dental chair for your appointment.

With Invisalign, you won’t have to see your cosmetic dentist in Lexington, KY, as much. The appointments are quicker and less invasive than traditional braces. You’ll need to return every four to six weeks, but between now, you’re going to have a set of aligners to turn in every two weeks. Since aligners are already planned and built, you won’t need any additional dental work to fix your teeth.

Eat & Drink What You Want

With traditional braces, you are limited to foods that you can eat or drink, but with Invisalign, all foods and beverages are allowed. Our friends at Green Dental Care, a dental office in Parker, CO, agree that you shouldn’t eat sticky, hard, or crunchy food. This excludes caramel, gum, nuts, popcorn, ice, corn-on-the-cob, and apples. Luckily, with removable aligners, you don’t have to think about what you’re consuming.

The only food or drink that you can eat with your aligners is cold water. Otherwise, food particles can get stuck inside the aligners, causing bacteria and plaque build-up. When removed, they should be securely stored in their travel container to prevent contamination or loss. After you’ve done eating, you can try brushing your teeth or rinsing with water before putting your aligners back in so that you can stop any food particles from sticking between your teeth and the aligner.

Invisalign in Lexington, KY

As you can see, there are many benefits to Invisalign aligners. If you want to straighten your smile in a discrete way, Invisalign is the way to go. It’s not only comfortable but also more efficient than traditional braces. Although Invisalign corrects most dental problems, it’s not for everyone. Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, to schedule an Invisalign consultation with Dr. Jin Young Kim. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today. 

New Year, New Smile

new year new smile

New Year, New Smile 

New Year, New Smile

As we start off 2021, try to picture what this year will bring you. Whether that be a new job, a healthier lifestyle, or your dream car. One thing your dentist in Lexington, KY, urges you to incorporate this new year is new smile goals. But how? In the article below, Dr. Kim shares how you can start the New Year with a new smile. 

Back to the Dental Basics

  1. If you’ve been slacking in your daily dental care, there are a few ways you can make up for it. First, get an electric toothbrush. This makes brushing your teeth for two minutes twice a day so much easier. You can even buy four heads to use this year, planning to change them every three months.
  2. Haven’t flossed in a while? Our dental office loves using floss picks. You can use them at home, at work, and even in your car. Your floss is ready to go when you are.  
  3. Make sure you brush and floss in the morning when you wake up, and in the evening before you sleep, and use an alcohol-free, FDA approved mouth rinse. This will help eliminate bacteria and bad breath. 
  4. Don’t forget to schedule two cleaning appointments during the month of January. Our friends at College Hill Dental Group, a dental office in Easton, PA, points out that appointments fill up, and if you set them now, you won’t have to think about them again. Park Hills Family Dentistry will send you appointment reminders, so you don’t forget.  

Bright & Beautiful Smile

One way to boost your confidence and enhance the look of your smile is through professional whitening treatments. Contact our dental office in Lexington, KY, about our whitening procedure. Everyone loves a bright, pearly smile.

Achieve a whiter smile in just a few hours! Patients can go up to a few shades whiter with professional teeth whitening. If you prefer whitening your teeth in the comfort of your house, we will give you custom-made trays and teeth whitening gel to take with you. Ask our office for a teeth whitening consultation.

Straighten Your Smile

If you’re looking for orthodontic care for yourself or your kids, Park Hills Family Dentistry offers clear aligners in Lexington, KY. We can treat misaligned teeth, bite defects, overcrowded teeth, and more. The best part about Invisalign is that no one will notice you’re wearing them! Invisalign is a lot more comfortable than traditional braces, and they work to straighten your teeth faster. 

Veneers, Dentures, & Dental Implants

There’s nothing like a chipped, broken, or cracked teeth to make you want to hide your smile. Luckily you don’t have to go through life with missing or broken teeth. Dental veneers, dentures, and dental implants are popular restorative dental treatments that we offer right here in our Lexington, KY dental office. Restore the function and look of your smile today! Schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim today. 

Visit Park Hills Family Dentistry

Regardless of your smile journey, make 2021 your year. Park Hills Family Dentistry offers a wide variety of dental services in the Lexington, KY area, and beyond. Contact our dental office today to schedule a consultation. Our team will work with you to achieve the smile of your dreams. 

How to Replace Missing Teeth

replace missing teeth Lexington ky

How to Replace Missing Teeth 

How to Replace Missing Teeth 

Gum disease, tooth decay, a freak accident, or genetic disorder can all be behind a missing tooth. No matter what the cause, it’s important to replace missing teeth before other dental problems arise. Luckily, our dental office in Lexington, KY, offers plenty of restorative dentistry services you can choose from. Here’s a quick look at a few options for replacing missing teeth, as well as the pros and cons of each treatment.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an alternative when you need to replace a single tooth or when multiple teeth are missing in various areas of your mouth. This procedure includes the surgical mounting of a titanium metal post or frame in your upper or lower jaw. The replacement tooth is then applied to the implant, allowing the tooth to stay in place. Essentially, a dental implant provides a permanent foundation for a replacement tooth. Although the cost varies, the treatment is approximately $3,000 to $6,000 per implant.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Patients often choose dental implants because it looks and feels just like natural teeth. The best part of all is this restorative treatment can last for decades. Another benefit of the implant is that it doesn’t require nearby teeth (like a bridge), so the majority of the teeth can stay intact.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

This is a surgical procedure, so you need to be in good physical condition for surgery and recovery. Plus, the healing process will take several months to complete. Your dentist can not attach a new tooth until the dental implant is fully healed. Since dental implants are not supported by surrounding teeth, you will need to have a decent jaw bone mass to hold the dental implant. Often, dental implants tend to be more costly than other replacement options for missing teeth. Some insurances may be protected by the treatment, but you may be liable for deductibles and co-pays.

Dental Bridge

If you don’t want to invest in a dental implant, see if you are a candidate for a fixed dental bridge. This tooth replacement option may be a good choice if one or more teeth are missing in the same area. A fixed dental bridge fills the space by using a dental prosthetic or artificial tooth. The prosthetic is applied to the adjacent teeth and then bonded to the position using dental cement.

The price of a single bridge depends on the materials used and your geographical location. Some reports suggest that a single bridge will cost between $300 and $1,000. Ask your dental insurance company if they will cover the cost of your dental bridge.

Benefits of Dental Bridges

Like dental implants, bridges look and feel like real teeth. You might find that they enhance the appearance of your natural teeth on either side of space. They’re generally cheaper than dental implants, too.

Disadvantages of Dental Bridges 

It can be difficult to clean the tooth under the bridge. Bridges include the modification of existing teeth. Also, a poorly fitted bridge may gradually damage the adjacent teeth over time. Our friends at Digital Doc, a leading dental technology company, adds that plaque and bacteria may seep underneath the bridge, causing tooth decay or infection.

Partial Dentures

Your Lexington, KY dentist may recommend full dentures if you need to replace all your teeth. But if you only need to replace some missing teeth, you may be a candidate for partial dentures.

Partial dentures also look and feel like natural teeth. They are custom, removable, and sit securely in your mouth. The base is designed to complement the color of your gums and the color of your natural teeth. Partial dentures are an affordable treatment for missing teeth. Despite common misconceptions, dentures are highly recommended by dentists all over the world.

Some insurances can be protected by removable partial dentures. Although prices vary, pricing calculators display costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.

Advantages of Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures are custom made to enhance your smile. Dentures are also less costly and easier to fix and replace than other tooth replacement options.

Disadvantages of Partial Dentures

Some people may find partial dentures painful, at least before they adapt to wearing them. Since dentures are removable, they must be cleaned regularly before bedtime. This constant handling can make them more prone to wear and tear. 

What Happens If I Don’t Replace Missing Teeth?

There might be little-to-no effect in some situations. Depending on the location of your missing tooth, you might not necessarily feel a void in your mouth. This may be the case if you’re missing a tooth on the back or side of your mouth. But your teeth are built to work together, so missing one or more teeth can often have an effect on everyday activities such as talking, eating, and drinking. If you find yourself adjusting the way you eat or talk because of your missing teeth, you should see a restorative dentist in Lexington, KY.

Missing teeth can alter the shape of your face, as it can cause your mouth to move. Also, the bite may adjust to make up or compensate for missing teeth, and the remaining teeth may shift and move due to extra space. This can cause other dental problems, such as tooth sensitivity, tooth grinding, and overcrowding. 

Visit Your Lexington, KY Dentist

If you’re missing teeth due to dental decay, gum disease, or an accident, contact our Lexington, KY dentist about ways to restore your smile. The cost varies depending on the replacement choice, the number of teeth you need to replace, and bone structure. Many dental insurance companies will cover a portion of the tooth replacement. If not, contact our dental office to discuss payment options. We look forward to meeting you soon!