How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist? 

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist at Park Hills Family Dentistry

Regular dental visits are a key component of maintaining good oral health and preventing serious dental issues. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of routine dental checkups and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. But how often should you visit the dentist? Let’s explore the answer to this important question and the benefits of maintaining a consistent dental care schedule.

Why Regular Dental Visits Are Important

Your oral health plays a significant role in your overall health. Dental problems like cavities, gum disease, and tooth decay can lead to discomfort, pain, and even tooth loss if left untreated. The earlier these issues are identified, the easier and less costly they are to treat. Regular visits to the dentist help catch these problems early, ensuring you can address them before they escalate into more serious issues.

In addition to diagnosing potential dental problems, dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that can’t be eliminated with regular brushing and flossing. This helps prevent gum disease and keeps your teeth looking and feeling their best.

How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit the dentist at least twice a year for routine checkups and professional cleanings. This schedule is typically sufficient for most people to maintain optimal oral health. However, the frequency of visits may vary depending on your individual needs and oral health condition.

Here are some factors to consider when determining how often you should visit the dentist:

1. Your Oral Health History

If you have a history of dental issues like gum disease, cavities, or tooth sensitivity, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits. People who have a higher risk of developing dental problems may need to see the dentist every three to four months. This allows your dentist to closely monitor your oral health and provide treatment or preventive care before issues worsen.

2. Gum Health

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems, and it can progress silently without noticeable symptoms until it becomes severe. Regular dental visits allow your dentist to check for early signs of gum disease, such as bleeding gums or gum recession. If caught early, gum disease can often be reversed with professional cleanings and improved at-home care. If you have a history of gum disease, more frequent visits may be necessary to prevent its progression.

3. Age and Lifestyle Factors

Your age and lifestyle can also affect how often you should visit the dentist. Children, teenagers, and older adults may need to see the dentist more frequently to ensure that their teeth and gums remain healthy as their mouths change over time. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, and the use of alcohol can also impact your oral health, increasing your risk for conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.

For instance, if you smoke, you may be at a higher risk for gum disease and oral cancer, so you may need more frequent visits for early detection and prevention.

4. Orthodontic Treatment

If you or a family member is undergoing orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, regular visits to the dentist are essential. While orthodontists focus on aligning your teeth, your general dentist will ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout the treatment. This often includes more frequent cleanings and checkups to prevent plaque buildup and other oral health issues that can arise during orthodontic treatment.

5. Pregnancy and Medical Conditions

Pregnancy can increase your risk for dental problems like gum disease and pregnancy gingivitis. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause your gums to become inflamed or bleed easily, making regular dental visits crucial. It’s important to keep up with your dental checkups to address any potential issues early.

Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, can also impact your oral health. People with diabetes are at a higher risk for gum disease, so regular dental visits are necessary to monitor and manage oral health.

What Happens During a Dental Checkup?

During a routine dental visit, your dentist will perform a thorough examination to check for any signs of dental problems. This includes:

  • Examining Your Teeth and Gums: Your dentist will check for signs of cavities, gum disease, or any other dental issues.

  • X-rays: If necessary, your dentist may take X-rays to check for problems below the surface, such as impacted teeth or bone loss.

  • Dental Cleaning: A hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

  • Oral Cancer Screening: Your dentist will perform an oral cancer screening to check for any abnormal lumps or sores in your mouth, throat, and neck.

Benefits of Regular Dental Visits

Visiting the dentist regularly offers numerous benefits, including:

  • Early Detection of Problems: Regular checkups allow your dentist to spot potential issues early, saving you from more extensive (and expensive) treatments down the line.

  • Preventive Care: Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar, reducing your risk of cavities and gum disease.

  • Improved Oral Health: Regular visits keep your teeth and gums healthy, improving your overall oral health and boosting your confidence with a brighter smile.

  • Personalized Advice: Your dentist can provide personalized recommendations for improving your oral hygiene routine at home, ensuring you take the best care of your teeth and gums.

Schedule Your Dental Checkup Today

Regular dental visits are an essential part of maintaining your oral health and preventing long-term issues. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing high-quality care and ensuring that your smile stays healthy for years to come. As the best dentist in Lexington, KY, we offer personalized care to meet your unique needs.

If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, or if you have any concerns about your oral health, don’t wait—schedule your next dental checkup today! Your smile will thank you.

The Most Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration

The Most Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration

The Most Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration 

The Most Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration in Lexington, KY

A bright, white smile is often seen as a sign of health and confidence. However, many people struggle with tooth discoloration that dulls their smile over time. While this is a common cosmetic concern, understanding what causes tooth discoloration can help you take steps to prevent or minimize it. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we believe that patient education is key to maintaining a healthy, radiant smile. Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes of tooth discoloration and how you can keep your teeth looking their best.

1. Food and Beverages

Some of your favorite foods and drinks may be the culprits behind stained teeth. Dark-colored beverages such as coffee, tea, red wine, and cola are well-known for causing surface stains. Foods like berries, soy sauce, tomato sauce, and balsamic vinegar can also contribute to discoloration.

Tip: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these foods and drinks, or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.

2. Tobacco Use

Both smoking and chewing tobacco are major contributors to yellow or brown tooth stains. Nicotine and tar seep into the enamel, leading to deeply ingrained discoloration that can be difficult to remove with regular brushing.

Tip: Quitting tobacco is not only good for your teeth—it’s essential for your overall health, including your heart and lungs.

3. Poor Oral Hygiene

Inadequate brushing and flossing can cause plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth, making them appear yellow or dull. Over time, this buildup can lead to permanent staining and even more serious dental problems.

Tip: Brush at least twice a day, floss daily, and visit the best dentist in Lexington, KY regularly for cleanings and exams.

4. Aging

As we age, the outer layer of enamel on our teeth naturally wears away, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. This process is inevitable, but good dental habits can slow it down and help maintain a whiter appearance.

Tip: Talk to your dentist about whitening treatments that can restore a youthful glow to your smile.

5. Medications

Certain medications can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect. For example, antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline may cause intrinsic stains when given to children whose teeth are still developing. Some antihistamines, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications can also contribute to discoloration.

Tip: Always inform your dentist of any medications you’re taking, especially if you notice changes in the color of your teeth.

6. Dental Trauma

A tooth that has experienced trauma—whether from a sports injury or an accident—can become discolored. This happens when the inner pulp is damaged or dies, causing the tooth to appear gray or brown.

Tip: If you experience any trauma to the mouth, see your dentist right away to assess the damage and prevent further complications.

7. Genetics

Sometimes, tooth discoloration can simply be inherited. Some people are born with thicker enamel or whiter teeth, while others may naturally have a more yellow or gray hue.

Tip: While you can’t change your genes, cosmetic dental treatments like professional whitening or veneers can help enhance your smile.

8. Fluorosis

Excessive fluoride exposure during childhood can lead to a condition called fluorosis, which causes white or brown spots on the teeth. While fluoride is important for preventing cavities, too much of it during development can result in staining.

Tip: Monitor your child’s fluoride intake and use fluoride toothpaste only as recommended by your dentist.

How Park Hills Family Dentistry Can Help

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we specialize in helping patients achieve bright, beautiful smiles. If you’re concerned about tooth discoloration, our team can assess the cause and recommend the best course of treatment. Options may include professional teeth whitening, bonding, veneers, or lifestyle adjustments.

We are proud to be known as the best dentist in Lexington, KY and are committed to providing gentle, effective care tailored to your needs.

Ready to Brighten Your Smile?

Don’t let stained or discolored teeth hold you back from smiling confidently. Schedule your appointment with Park Hills Family Dentistry today and let us help you achieve a smile you’ll love to show off.

Call us or book online to get started with the best dentist in Lexington, KY!

Dental Care for Seniors

Dental Care for Seniors

Dental Care for Seniors 

How Aging Affects Oral Health and How to Combat It

As we age, our oral health needs evolve, making regular dental care more essential than ever. Seniors are more susceptible to issues like gum disease, tooth decay, dry mouth, and tooth loss, which can significantly impact overall health and quality of life. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care to patients of all ages. If you’re searching for the best dentist in Lexington, KY, to help you maintain a healthy smile in your golden years, we’re here to help.

Common Dental Issues Seniors Face

Aging brings about natural changes in oral health. Some of the most common dental concerns for seniors include:

1. Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent issue among older adults. It is caused by plaque buildup and can lead to inflammation, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss if left untreated. Regular professional cleanings and good oral hygiene can help prevent and manage this condition.

2. Tooth Decay

Cavities aren’t just a problem for children—seniors are at risk too. Over time, enamel wears down, and receding gums expose the roots of teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay. Using fluoride toothpaste and visiting your dentist regularly can help prevent cavities.

3. Dry Mouth

Many seniors experience dry mouth due to medications or medical conditions. A lack of saliva can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, and using saliva substitutes can help alleviate symptoms.

4. Tooth Loss

Losing teeth can impact chewing, speaking, and self-confidence. Fortunately, there are various restorative options available, such as dentures, dental implants, and bridges, to help restore function and aesthetics.

5. Oral Cancer

The risk of oral cancer increases with age. Regular dental checkups allow for early detection, which is crucial for successful treatment. If you notice persistent sores, lumps, or difficulty swallowing, consult your dentist immediately.

Essential Dental Care Tips for Seniors

Maintaining good oral health as you age requires consistent care and preventive measures. Here are some tips to keep your smile healthy:

1. Brush and Floss Daily

Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily can help prevent cavities and gum disease. If arthritis makes it difficult to hold a toothbrush, consider using an electric toothbrush for easier handling.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dry mouth and flushes away food particles and bacteria. Avoid sugary and acidic beverages that can contribute to tooth decay.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports strong teeth and gums. Incorporate dairy products, leafy greens, lean proteins, and crunchy fruits and vegetables into your meals.

4. Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Routine dental checkups are essential for detecting and addressing oral health issues early. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we provide comprehensive exams, professional cleanings, and personalized treatment plans to help seniors maintain optimal oral health.

5. Consider Restorative Dentistry Options

If you have missing teeth, explore restorative options like dentures, bridges, or dental implants to improve functionality and confidence in your smile. Our team specializes in customized solutions tailored to your needs.

Finding the Best Dental Care for Seniors in Lexington, KY

When looking for the best dentist in Lexington, KY, it’s important to find a dental office that prioritizes senior dental care. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we offer gentle, compassionate, and expert care designed to meet the unique needs of older adults. Our team understands the challenges seniors face and is dedicated to providing tailored solutions for lasting oral health.

If you or a loved one need professional dental care, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today. Your smile deserves the best care at every stage of life!

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today! 

Let us help you maintain a strong, healthy, and beautiful smile for years to come!

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong 

Daily Habits to Keep Your Gums Healthy and Strong

When it comes to taking care of our overall health, it is essential not to neglect our oral hygiene. Maintaining strong and healthy gums is crucial for our overall oral health. Gum disease can cause tooth loss and bone deterioration. Fortunately, there are plenty of daily habits that you can adopt to keep your gums healthy and strong. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, our team of dental experts recommends the following habits to ensure your gum health.

Brush Properly and Consistently

Brushing your teeth twice a day is not enough; you need to ensure that you are brushing properly and consistently. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean every tooth, including the hard-to-reach areas around your molars. Also, make sure to brush your gums lightly in a circular motion. This helps remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles from your mouth, which can lead to gum disease.

Floss Daily

Flossing your teeth isn’t always fun, but it’s crucial to remove plaque and bacteria from the areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. Flossing daily helps eliminate food particles and bacteria between your teeth and under the gum line. When food particles are left between your teeth and gums, it can lead to inflammation and irritation, causing gum disease. That’s why flossing every day is a must.

Cut Back on Sugary Foods

Eating sugary foods is not only bad for your overall health but also for your gum health. The sugar in sweets and sugary drinks promotes the growth of plaque and bacteria in your mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Limiting your sugar intake and incorporating healthier foods into your diet can help prevent these oral health issues.

Rinse with Mouthwash

Adding a mouthwash to your oral hygiene routine can help sweep away bacteria and debris from your mouth. A good mouthwash also helps neutralize acidic oral environments, which can lead to weakened enamel and cavities. Rinsing with mouthwash daily can help keep your gums healthy, freshen your breath, and leave your mouth feeling clean.

Quit Smoking

Smoking can cause significant damage to your gums and oral health in general. Smokers are more likely to develop gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. Smoking suppresses your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections, including those that cause gum disease. Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your overall oral health.

Contact Us Today

If you want to keep your gums healthy and strong, adopting daily habits such as brushing and flossing properly, limiting sugar intake, rinsing with mouthwash, and quitting smoking is essential. Taking care of your gums is crucial for your overall oral health, as it helps prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and other oral health problems. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, our dental experts are always ready to help you keep your gums healthy and keep your winning smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Dental Care As You Age

Dental Care As You Age

Dental Care As You Age 

Dental Care as you age

As you age, your dental care needs will evolve. It is important to establish a relationship with a trusted dentist in Lexington, KY who can meet all of your changing needs. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we strive to be that type of dentist for all of our patients by offering comprehensive services and preventive care tailored to each person’s individual oral health objectives. With years of experience helping people maintain healthy teeth and gums even as they age, you can trust us to have the knowledge and resources necessary for optimal results.

The importance of regular dental check-ups as you get older

As we get older, it’s important to be proactive about our dental health. Regular dental checkups are essential for ensuring that any potential issues are discovered and addressed quickly. Professional cleaning sessions every six months help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, as well as identify signs of trouble such as cavities, periodontal disease, gum disease, and tooth decay. It is also beneficial for seniors to speak with their dentists about fluoride treatments which can reduce the risk of cavities and may even help repair the early stages of tooth decay. Overall, regular dental checkups are an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene throughout life and should not be overlooked as we age.

How to keep your teeth healthy and strong

Taking care of your teeth is an important way to maintain good overall health. To keep your teeth healthy and strong, it is recommended to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss your teeth at least once a day, reduce sugary foods and drinks and visit your dentist regularly for preventive care. Brushing will remove food particles and plaque while flossing will help clean in between each tooth. Limiting sweet treats helps reduce the chances of cavities forming because excess sugar can promote decay. Routine checkups with your dentist will help ensure early detection of any dental problems so that they can be treated promptly. Proper oral hygiene is key to maintaining strong and healthy teeth for lasting oral health and well being.

Common dental conditions associated with aging

As we age, it’s important to be mindful of the common dental conditions that can afflict seniors. Tooth wear and decay, gum recession, and oral cancers are some of the issues that adults over 65 years old may be more susceptible to due to weakened immune systems and other factors. Additionally, some medications that are commonly prescribed for elderly patients can lead to dry mouth and increase the risk of cavities and oral infections. For these reasons, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day are recommendations for improving oral health as we age. Seeing your dentist regularly is very important too; they will be able to identify potential risks early, along with detecting many oral diseases at an early stage that could become serious if left untreated.

The benefits of professional oral hygiene products

Professional oral hygiene products go a long way in promoting healthy teeth and gums. These products are designed to help remove plaque and food particles, promote saliva production and reduce bacteria buildup. In particular, professional fluoride mouth rinses not only help prevent the formation of cavities, but also help reduce pain if cavities have already formed. Professional whitening treatments can also provide dramatic whitening results far exceeding those available with at-home whitening kits. Finally, professional in-office cleanings can rid your mouth of even the toughest stains, helping you restore your natural smile for years to come. Investing in professional oral hygiene products is a worthwhile investment that pays off with good overall oral health.

Tips for preventive dentistry care as you age

As you age, it is more important than ever to keep up with your preventive dental care in order to maintain healthy gums and teeth. This includes scheduling regular checkups with your dentist and maintaining proper hygiene at home. Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and make sure to floss at least one time each day. It is also important to minimize sugary or acidic foods which can lead to erosion of tooth enamel or bacterial growth in the mouth. Additionally, quitting smoking can greatly improve overall oral health due to an increase of oxygen intake, as well as decreasing both plaque build-up and gum disease. Staying on top of preventive dentistry care and implementing these tips can help you maintain a healthy smile for many years.

How to manage cost-effective care for dental health

Taking good care of your dental health doesn’t have to be an expensive affair. There are numerous cost-effective strategies to make sure your teeth remain healthy and strong. Regular check-ups at the dentist, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and limiting sugary foods and drinks will help maintain a healthy mouth. Additionally, patients should consider talking to their dentists about discount plans for their long-term dental needs. Resources like online coupons may also be helpful, as well as negotiating payment plans with a provider or using regular deductibles through insurance programs. Following these tips and investing just a little effort into researching available resources could make all the difference in maintaining good oral health without breaking the bank.

Contact Us Today!

Overall, dentists recommend regular visits at least every 6 months to ensure optimal dental health in our golden years. Taking the time to properly care for our teeth, gums and mouth as we age can go a long way towards maintaining a strong set of teeth for years to come. While there are some unavoidable conditions associated with aging and our dental health, the use of professional oral hygiene products combined with preventive dentistry practices can help us to manage these issues in a cost-effective way. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team who’s happy to help. With the aid of an experienced dentist and good oral hygiene habits, taking the necessary steps now can help ensure we have healthy smiles well into our senior years. 

Are White Spots On Teeth Permanent?

Are White Spots On Teeth Permanent

Are White Spots On Teeth Permanent? 

 Are White Spots On Teeth Permanent? Find out the Truth Here!

White spots on teeth can be a source of frustration for many people. They can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, excessive fluoride intake, or enamel hypoplasia. But the real question is, are white spots on teeth permanent? In this blog post, we will explore the different causes of white spots on teeth and their treatment options, so you can have a beautiful and healthy smile.

Oral hygiene

One of the most common causes of white spots on teeth is poor oral hygiene. When plaque and bacteria build up on your teeth, they can weaken the enamel, causing white spots to appear. However, this type of white spot can often be reversed with proper brushing and flossing. Using a fluoride toothpaste, mouthwash, and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings can also help prevent white spots from forming.

Fluorosis

Another cause of white spots on teeth is excessive fluoride intake. Fluorosis is a condition where too much fluoride is ingested, causing white spots and even brown stains on teeth. This condition typically occurs during childhood when children are exposed to high levels of fluoride from drinking water, toothpaste, or fluoride supplements. While mild cases of fluorosis can be treated with teeth whitening or microabrasion, severe cases may require more extensive treatments such as veneers or crowns.

Enamel does not develop properly

Enamel hypoplasia is another possible cause of white spots on teeth. This condition occurs when the tooth enamel does not develop properly, either due to genetic factors or childhood illness. In addition to white spots, enamel hypoplasia can cause pitting, grooves, or even yellow or brown staining on teeth. Treatment options for this condition may include dental bonding, veneers, or crowns, depending on the severity of the damage.

Discussing what treatment is right for you 

Regardless of the cause, it’s important to address white spots on teeth as soon as possible. Not only can they be unsightly, but they can also weaken the enamel and increase the risk of tooth decay. Your dentist can assess the cause of your white spots and recommend the best course of treatment for you. Whether it’s through teeth whitening, microabrasion, or more extensive treatments, your dentist can help you achieve a healthy and beautiful smile.

Contact us today

White spots on teeth can be caused by various factors and can have different treatment approaches. While mild cases of white spots can be reversed with proper oral hygiene, severe cases may require more extensive procedures such as veneers or crowns. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to consult your dentist and address the issue as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the teeth. By taking good care of your teeth and visiting your dentist regularly, you can ensure a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come. For all your dental needs, including the treatment of white spots on teeth, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, Kentucky today.

Natural Looking Smile Upgrades

Natural Looking Smile Upgrades

Natural Looking Smile Upgrades 

Natural Looking Smile Upgrades: Options to Consider

Everybody wants to have a confident, dazzling smile. But not everyone is blessed with a perfect set of teeth. Fortunately, there are various options to upgrade and restore the beauty of your smile. While some methods may be invasive, others can deliver natural-looking results without sacrificing the integrity of your natural teeth. In this post, we will look at some of the best options to achieve a natural-looking smile upgrade.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening in Lexington KY is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your smile’s appearance. It is also one of the least invasive procedures. Most dental practices offer in-office and take-home teeth whitening options. In-office treatments typically involve applying a gel containing hydrogen peroxide to the teeth and activating it with a special light. Take-home whitening kits provide a lower concentration of the whitening agent and are applied using custom-fitted trays. Both options can deliver remarkable results, brightening your smile by several shades.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They alter the appearance of teeth by changing their shape, size, and color. Veneers can conceal a variety of cosmetic flaws such as chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. They are custom-made to match the surrounding teeth perfectly, yielding a natural-looking result. Because veneers require a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed, they are irreversible. They can, however, last for years with proper care.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that serve as anchors for replacement teeth. They consist of three parts: the implant, abutment, and crown. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and left to heal for a few months. The abutment, which is attached to the implant, connects the implant to the crown, which is customized to match the color and shape of the natural teeth. Lexington KY dental implants are a long-term solution to missing teeth that look and feel like natural teeth. They also help to maintain bone density and facial structure.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth without the use of traditional braces. It consists of a series of customized plastic trays that are worn for a few weeks at a time. The trays are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for adults and teenagers. Invisalign aligners are removable, so patients can eat and brush their teeth as they normally would. This makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene during treatment. Invisalign aligners can correct a range of mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as crooked teeth, gaps, and overbites.

Gum Contouring

Sometimes, the appearance of teeth can be affected by the shape and size of the gums. Gum contouring is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that reshapes the gum line to improve the appearance of the teeth. It can make the teeth appear longer or more symmetrical, or reduce the amount of gum tissue that shows when you smile. Gum contouring can be done using a laser or traditional surgical techniques. Recovery time is relatively short, and the results can be dramatic.

Contact Us Today!

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, there are numerous natural-looking smile upgrade options available to you. Before deciding on a treatment, consult with your dentist to determine which procedure is right for you. They can help you consider factors such as cost, recovery time, and the extent of the procedure. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, KY, our experienced team of dental professionals will create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

How Oral Health Impacts Overall Health

How Oral Health Impacts Overall Health

How Oral Health Impacts Overall Health 

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Many people don’t realize that there is a strong connection between oral health and overall health. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we know that the two are closely linked, which is why we strive to educate our patients on how their oral health affects the rest of their body. Let’s take a closer look at this important connection.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

When it comes to oral health, many people think only of the teeth and gums. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Poor oral hygiene can have far-reaching consequences on one’s overall health. For example, research has shown that gum disease may be linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke due to inflammation in the body. Additionally, poor dental hygiene has been linked to other serious conditions such as diabetes and respiratory diseases.

These potential complications are why it is so important for patients at Park Hills Family Dentistry to maintain good oral hygiene habits on a regular basis. Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once will help reduce plaque buildup and prevent cavities from forming. Regular visits to our office will also help keep your mouth healthy—we can detect any potential problems early before they become more serious issues down the road.

The Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene isn’t just about avoiding serious medical complications; there are also some immediate benefits as well. Patients who practice proper dental care can enjoy improved breath, better-tasting food, whiter teeth, fewer trips to the dentist near you, and less money spent on dental treatments over time. It may seem like a lot of work now but in the long run, it pays off for both your mouth and your wallet!

Contact Us Today!

Taking good care of your teeth is an essential part of maintaining overall health—and Park Hills Family Dentistry is here to help you do just that! We understand how important it is for our patients in Lexington KY to have a healthy mouth so they can enjoy optimal physical well-being throughout their lives. With regular checkups combined with good brushing and flossing habits, you can ensure that your teeth stay healthy while avoiding costly treatments down the road! Contact us today to get started!

Oral Health New Years Resolutions

Oral Health New Years Resolutions

Oral Health New Years Resolutions 

New Year, New Oral Health Habits

The start of a new year is the perfect time to make positive changes in our lives, including our oral health. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we believe that 2023 can be your healthiest year yet with these simple New Year’s resolutions for your oral health.

Brush and Floss Daily

This resolution may seem like a no-brainer but it’s important to make sure you are brushing your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing at least once per day. Not only does this help prevent cavities, but it can also lower your risk of gum disease. If you want to take your dental hygiene routine up a notch, you might consider investing in an electric toothbrush or an antimicrobial mouthwash to further reduce the bacteria in your mouth.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

The American Dental Association recommends visiting your Lexington KY dentist every six months for regular cleanings and checkups to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy. During these visits, any issues with cavities or gum disease can be caught before they become more serious problems. Additionally, seeing your dentist near you regularly will give them an opportunity to provide advice on how you can better care for your dental health at home between appointments.

Create Healthy Eating Habits

Your diet plays a huge role in the health of your teeth, so it’s important to create healthy eating habits that support good oral hygiene throughout the year. This means limiting sugary and acidic foods as much as possible as well as drinking lots of water throughout the day. Water helps wash away food particles that get stuck between teeth and helps keep saliva levels balanced which prevents bacteria from growing too quickly in the mouth.

Contact Us Today!

We hope these three easy resolutions will help you maintain great oral health throughout 2023! As always, if you have any questions about caring for your oral health or would like to schedule an appointment at Park Hills Family Dentistry please don’t hesitate to contact us! We wish everyone a happy and healthy 2023!

What Is The Cause To Bad Breath?

Lexington KY Dentist

What Is The Cause To Bad Breath? 

Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions

You brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, use mouthwash, and yet you still have bad breath. halitosis. Millions of Americans suffer from bad breath, or halitosis, and don’t know the cause or how to get rid of it. If you’re struggling with halitosis, our dental professionals at Park Hills Family Dentistry can help identify the cause and give you solutions to get rid of your bad breath for good.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

There are many reasons why you may have bad breath. The most common causes are:

Poor Oral Hygiene

This is the most common cause of bad breath. Not brushing your teeth or flossing can leave plaque and bacteria in your mouth that cause your breath to smell.

Smoking

Smoking tobacco products not only stains your teeth, it also dries out your mouth and irritates your gums which can lead to bad breath.

Food

What you eat can also affect your breath. Foods like onions and garlic can cause bad breath that lingers even after you brush your teeth.

Dry Mouth

A dry mouth doesn’t produce enough saliva which leaves bacteria unchecked and causes bad breath.

Gum Disease

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can cause bad breath.

Certain Medical Conditions

Some medical conditions like diabetes, liver failure, acid reflux, respiratory infections, and kidney failure can also cause bad breath.
Bad Breath Solutions

 

Park Hills Family Dentistry offers many solutions for patients with bad breath including:

 

Tongue Scrapers

Tongue scrapers are easy to use and very effective in reducing tongue bacteria which is often the cause of morning breath or “dragon” breath.

Mouth Rinses

There are many over-the-counter options available as well as prescription mouth rinses that our dental professionals in Lexington KY can recommend specifically to your needs. Be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle for the best results.

Brushing And Flossing

The old stand-bys of brushing and flossing are still the best way to reduce plaque and bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath. Our Lexington KY Dentists can show you proper brushing techniques specific for your needs.

Regular Dental Cleaning

Regular professional dental cleanings in Lexington KY help remove plaque buildup that at-home brushing and flossing cannot reach as well as evaluate for any other underlying conditions that may be causing bad breath. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today

Don’t let bad breath ruin your confidence or relationships—our team at Park Hills Family Dentistry is here to help you find a solution that works for you! Schedule an appointment today to get started on fresh, long-lasting kisses goodbye!