Am I Using An Effective Toothpaste

Am I Using An Effective Toothpaste

Am I Using An Effective Toothpaste 

What Kind Of Toothpaste Do You Need?

Am I using an effective toothpaste? While there is no such thing as a miracle dental product that will fix all of your oral problems, using the right toothpaste can certainly be a helpful step in maintaining your oral health. Different kinds of toothpaste are designed for different purposes, so choosing one that is right for your needs is important. For example, if you have sensitive teeth, toothpaste are designed to help with that. Or, if you are struggling with bad breath, there are toothpaste that can help with that as well. In short, taking the time to find the right toothpaste for you can be a helpful step in keeping your smile looking its best. However, it is important to remember that no toothpaste can replace good dental hygiene habits. So, brush and floss regularly and see your dentist in Lexington Ky for regular check-ups to maintain excellent oral health.

Toothpaste Options For Sensitive Teeth

When your teeth are sensitive, your enamel cannot properly protect the inner layers of your teeth. This leads to a slow increase in sensitivity that can be made worse when brushing, flossing, eating, and drinking. If you suffer from sensitivity, it is important to brush gently, as excessive brushing can cause receding gums and worn enamel. When it comes to finding the perfect toothpaste for sensitivity, there are a few things you will want to look for. A toothpaste with fluoride will help to strengthen your enamel and reduce sensitivity. You may also want to try a toothpaste specifically designed for sensitive teeth. 

These toothpaste often contain ingredients that help to calm and soothe inflamed nerves. You may consider using a desensitizing gel or strips if you have severe sensitivity. These products can help block pain and make brushing and eating less uncomfortable. Our friends over at High Desert Dental, the best dentist in Grand Junction Co, know that with proper care, you can help to reduce your teeth sensitivity and enjoy a healthier smile.

Toothpaste If Your Teeth Are Prone To Plaque And Decay 

When plaque builds up on teeth, it interacts with sugars to produce harmful acids. These acids erode tooth enamel and eventually lead to cavities. Fluoride toothpaste can help strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities if you are prone to cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in water and helps to remineralize teeth that acids have damaged. In addition to using fluoride toothpaste, you can also help to prevent cavities by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. With these simple steps, you can keep your smile healthy and cavity-free.

Contact Us Today For A Toothpaste Option

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we provide a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of your entire family. From preventive care and routine cleanings to more complex procedures, we are here to help you maintain a healthy and beautiful smile. We understand that choosing dental care can be difficult, and we appreciate your trust in us. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest quality of care, and we will work with you to ensure that your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and let us show you how we can help you achieve optimal oral health.

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss?

Why Do My Gums Bleed When I Floss? 

Everything You Need To Know About Bleeding Gums

Many people experience bleeding gums when they floss. This is usually nothing to be concerned about and is often the result of inflammation or gum disease. However, if the bleeding persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as pain or swelling, it is important to see Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY. If you are concerned about bleeding gums, be sure to talk to your dentist and ask why do my gums bleed when I floss? They will be able to determine the cause of the bleeding and recommend the best course of treatment.

When It’s Important To Come See Park Hills Family Dentistry?

As a general rule, you should see the best dentist in Lexington KY if your gums bleed for more than seven days. However, there are a few additional factors and warning signs to look out for as well. Sensitive teeth can be a sign of gum disease, and so can red or inflamed gums. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment with your dentist. Waiting too long to seek treatment can lead to serious health complications, including tooth loss. Therefore, it’s best to be cautious and visit your dentist at the first sign of trouble.

Making Sure Your Flossing Correctly

Flossing is an important part of maintaining good oral health. Though it may seem like a simple task, there is a right and wrong way to floss. Incorrect flossing techniques can actually do more harm than good, so it is important to take the time to learn how to floss correctly.

The first step is to choose the right type of floss. There are many different kinds of floss on the market, so it is important to choose one that will work well for your teeth and gums. If you have braces or other dental appliances, you will need to use a special type of floss that is designed for those devices. Once you have the right type of floss, you are ready to get started.

The next step is to measure out about 18 inches of floss. This may seem like a lot, but it is important to use a long piece in order to avoid re-using contaminated sections of floss. Once you have your length of floss, wrap most of it around one middle finger and the rest around the opposing middle finger. This will leave a section of un-wound floss in the middle that you will use to clean your teeth. Our friends in Parker CO, with Green Dental Care, say with practice, you’ll be able to floss effectively and keep your smile healthy.

Bleeding Gums No Problem Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today To Help!

Thanks for considering us for your next dental work! We’d love to learn more about what you have in mind. To help us serve you better, please provide some additional information in the form below. Once we receive your submission, one of our friendly team members will be in touch shortly to discuss your project in further detail. We can’t wait to get started!

 

What is a Tooth Abscess?

What is a Tooth Abscess?

What is a Tooth Abscess? 

Everything You Need to Know About a Tooth Infection

An abscess is a bacterial infection of the tooth. Abscesses can arise anywhere around a tooth for several causes, affecting the tooth and the surrounding bone and neighboring teeth. So What is a Tooth Abscess? Keep reading to find out why general dentistry will help you avoid these abscesses.

Types of Tooth Infection

Gingival: A gum infection. It usually doesn’t harm the tooth or its roots. Bacteria can enter the pulp of the tooth through a fracture or cavity. The pulp includes nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria infect the pulp, they can travel to the tooth’s root tip, creating an abscess. It originates in the bone and tissues that support the tooth. Periodontitis (gum disease) causes periodontal abscesses, more prevalent in adults.
Infections are more likely to happen when you are a daily smoker. A dry mouth breeds bacteria. Lack of regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings minimize germs. Having a weaker immune system might make fighting pathogens more difficult. A tooth infection’s complications. Untreated tooth infections can extend to the jawbone, cheek, and soft neck tissues. However, acute endocarditis and cerebral endocarditis are uncommon (bacterial meningitis). Make sure you contact your dentist for proper teeth cleaning in Lexington KY.

Some Main Symptoms of a Tooth Abscesses and Why They Occur

Anything that allows germs to enter the tooth or surrounding tissues might cause an infection. Some causes: A cavity is the deterioration of the tooth’s hard surfaces. Bacteria convert carbohydrates into acid, which damages the enamel. Bacteria can enter a tooth through a chip or fracture and spread to the pulp.

Periodontitis: Encircling the teeth are the gums, which are infected and inflamed. Bacteria enter deeper tissues as gum disease worsens. Trauma to the tooth can harm the inner pulp even if no apparent break occurs. In addition, infection is possible due to the wound.

What Causes the Teeth to Get an Infection

Infected teeth cause discomfort in:

  • Gnaw or shooting pain when chewing.
  • Jawbone, neck, or ear radiating.

Other oral infection symptoms:

  • Tooth sensitivity to heat and cold.
  • Bad breath.
  • Gum inflammation.
  • Tooth loosening
  • They have swollen upper or lower jaw.
  • Open, draining gum sore.

You may also have broad symptoms like:

  • Fever.
  • Neck gland swell.
  • General unease or a bad feeling.

Other Testing Options

X-ray is suggested that they can assist in determining the source of the infection better. X-rays can also show if the infection has migrated to other locations. Another option would be to use our modern-day 3D CT cone beams which help our dentist customize your dental needs. 

Can a tooth infection self-heal?

An infection won’t go gone by itself. This is because an infection kills the pulp within your tooth. The pain ends because the nerve quits working; therefore, you may not feel it. But the germs will keep spreading and destroying tissue.

What is an abscessed tooth?

Cure the infection and avoid consequences. Your dentist might make a tiny cut to drain the pus in the abscess. A small rubber drain may be inserted to allow drainage.  A root canal saves your tooth by removing the infection. This surgery removes the diseased inner pulp and seals the gap to avoid re-infection. The inner pulp is vital during tooth development, but the tooth may survive without it once it matures.

It should be normal after the treatment. However, you may require a crown to cover the root canal. A restored tooth can last a lifetime if properly cared for. If the tooth cannot be salvaged, your dentist will need to remove it and let the pus drain from the socket. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to help with your dental treatment if the infection is only in the abscessed region. While this treatment may help kill residual germs, it will not remove the infection’s source, the infected tooth.

How to Prevent an Abscessed Tooth

Visiting your dentist in Lexington KY regularly for dental checkups and cleanings might help prevent tooth abscesses. Also, see your dentist if a tooth becomes loose or damaged. Dentistry requires good oral hygiene. Brush twice daily and floss once daily at home.

How do I treat a tooth infection?

Toothache indicates a visit to the dentist. Warm salt water rinses and over-the-counter pain medications can help you wait. Remember, your dentist wants you to be healthy. They, like other medical experts, are part of the healthcare team. Keep up with frequent dental visits — prevention is crucial! A dentist can detect abnormalities early on, easier to fix. If you are in pain, consult the best dentist in Lexington KY right away.

Thank You

Our friends in Colorado would agree with us for wanting you to make sure you are taking care of your teeth. Bookcliff Family Dental is the best dentist in Grand Junction Colorado go check them out.

Signs of a Dead Tooth

how to fix a cracked tooth - Lexington KY

Signs of a Dead Tooth 

Most Common Signs of a Dead Tooth 

Are our teeth meant to last a lifetime? The short answer is yes! However, it does take discipline and consistency in your daily life. Without implementing daily habits and making good choices, you could end up with a dead tooth. So, how do you know if your tooth is dying? In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, discusses the most common signs of a dead tooth. 

Causes of a Dead Tooth

To keep them strong, healthy teeth have a pulp chamber in the center. According to the American Dental Association, the pulp contains the tooth’s nerve tissue and blood vessels, which help keep it alive. The pulp can be found all the way down to the roots of the teeth. Patients may injure their pulp on accident, which may cause your tooth to die. However, your pulp can be damaged in a variety of ways. One reason is a chipped tooth, and the other is a large cavity. Bacteria from your mouth can enter your pulp when you crack a tooth. It is also possible for bacteria to get into the pulp through deeper cavities. The pulp has the potential to become infected and die in either situation.

Signs of a Dead Tooth

When the pulp becomes infected and dies, a variety of symptoms may appear. Dr. Kim says that one of the most prominent signs of a dead tooth is a pain when biting or chewing. Other warning signs you should watch out for include sudden toothache and sensitivity to hot or cold drinks/foods. Our friend Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, points out that when a tooth dies, pain isn’t always present. Because not everyone feels pain, they may not know that their tooth has died. It’s critical to have regular dental checkups if you want to catch dead teeth that aren’t causing any problems.

Options for Medical Treatment

Even if your pulp gets infected and dies, it won’t improve on its own. The infection that killed your pulp can spread to the bone surrounding your tooth if you don’t get dental treatment. If this happens, a pus-filled pocket may form in your jawbone. When a tooth is dead, you should contact an emergency dentist immediately. 

Dr. Kim may recommend tooth extraction or root canal therapy, depending on the state of your tooth. Your Lexington KY dentist will make a treatment plan for your tooth based on his or her findings. You may be advised to have your tooth extracted if it is severely cracked, for example. A root canal treatment may be able to save your tooth if the rest of the tooth is healthy except for the dead pulp.

Maintaining Good Dental Health

You can do a lot to keep your teeth in good shape. Dr. Kim says that the most critical part of maintaining a healthy smile is the oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day to keep your teeth healthy. This toothpaste repairs early tooth and gum damage and strengthens teeth by remineralizing weakened enamel. Also, be sure to floss at least once per day. Stay on top of your professional teeth cleanings and exams. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY, to schedule your next visit! 

National Dental Hygiene Month

national dental hygiene month - Lexington KY

National Dental Hygiene Month 

Celebrate National Dental Hygiene Month

Happy National Dental Hygiene Month! This month is one of our favorite times of the year. Who wouldn’t want to celebrate a happy and healthy smile? This is a great excuse to get the whole family’s oral hygiene back on track. A consistent dental hygiene routine paired with the help of your dentist in Lexington, KY will be key to a bright and beautiful smile. Continue reading below to learn how you celebrate your National Dental Hygiene Month.

The Essentials of Oral Health

National Dental Hygiene Month focuses on the important daily routines that promote healthy teeth and gums. They are as follows:

  • Brushing. The ADHA suggests brushing your teeth twice a day, first in the morning after breakfast and again in the evening soon before going to bed, with a soft toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste.
  • Flossing. This should be done once a day, preferably shortly before going to bed, when trapped food particles might do the most harm.
  • Consuming nutritious foods. A diet based on the government’s food pyramid enhances dental health by reducing sugar consumption while also contributing to general physical health. It includes whole grains and dairy products, vegetables, fruits, and nuts, as well as meat, fish, and sweets in moderation.
  • Mouthwash. This should be done on a daily basis. Our friend Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says that mouthwash can help eliminate harmful bacteria and bad breath.
  • Chew sugarless gum. Chewing sugar-free gum for 20 minutes after eating helps to clean debris from teeth, improves saliva production, which helps to regulate acid accumulation, and provides vital minerals to the enamel of the teeth, says Dr. Jinyoung Kim.
  • Check for signs of decay. Additionally, parents should carefully inspect their children’s teeth once a month for signs of decay or infection, such as cavities and white spots on the gums. They should ensure that their children have frequent dental checkups.
  • Switch out your toothbrush. Getting a new toothbrush is also important. It’s recommended that you do so every few months or when the bristles start to wear down. 

Contact The Best Lexington Dentist

Healthy dental habits should be taught at a young age. This will ensure that you have strong and healthy teeth in your adulthood. However, if you have poor oral hygiene, it may not be too late to start! Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule your next oral hygiene cleaning. We will help you and your family get back on top of optimal oral health.

Signs You’re Grinding Your Teeth

sings you're grinding your teeth - lexington ky

Signs You're Grinding Your Teeth 

Top Signs That You’re Grinding Your Teeth At Night

Do you ever clench your jaw when you’re stressed? If that’s the case, this is a natural reaction. Many people, however, do this on a regular basis, even while sleeping, leading to bruxism or teeth grinding. Tooth grinding harms the teeth, produces persistent discomfort, and interferes with sleep. In this article, Dr. Kim, your dentist in Lexington, KY, shares signs that you’re grinding your teeth and what you can do to stop it.

Three Signs You Have Bruxism or Grind Your Teeth At Night

These are the three most typical indications that you grind your teeth. If you have any questions, please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY.

Teeth Look Worn Down

Are your back teeth looking worn down? Each tooth should have some ridges. Flat or worn teeth are one of the most common symptoms that you grind your teeth at night. Dr. Kim says that this can cause some serious problems. Cracked teeth, fractured teeth, chipped teeth, lost fillings, and other unexplained tooth damage are also red flags. Please contact your dentist if you see this type of damage. Your dentist may provide you with a custom mouth guard to prevent any further damage. Without treatment, you can cause gum problems, tooth decay, and tooth sensitivity. 

Headaches & Facial Pain

Another indicator of teeth grinding is waking up with headaches, jaw pain, or weary facial muscles. People are frequently concerned by these symptoms; after all, you would expect to wake up feeling rejuvenated after a good night’s sleep. Most people, however, are unaware that this is a common symptom of chronic nighttime tooth grinding. If you have encountered these symptoms, please visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, to see how they can help. 

People who grind their teeth occasionally develop pain in the jaw or surrounding muscles. This can result in temporomandibular dysfunction (TMJ/TMD). TMD is a condition characterized by improper jaw movement. When you bite down or chew, you may hear a clicking or popping sound if you have TMD.

Sleep Deprivation

Bruxism, or tooth grinding, also causes sleep disruption for both you and your sleeping partner. When a person discovers that they grind their teeth, it is usually because their spouse or partner complains about the grinding noise they hear at night.

Other times, people become aware of chronic bruxism when they wake up exhausted and fatigued. In rare situations, their face may appear fatigued, or they may experience a headache. Because sleep is so essential to living a healthy lifestyle, it is critical to treat any issue that hinders you from receiving a decent night’s sleep.

Grinding is frequently a symptom of an airway issue. This can manifest as mouth breathing, snoring, or sleep apnea, says our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO. Dentists are frequently the first doctors to identify a suspected airway problem since they may see the indicators on the patient’s teeth before additional symptoms appear.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?

There are numerous reasons for bruxism, often known as tooth grinding. Unresolved or prolonged stress or tension is a common cause. Remember how we asked if you ever clench your teeth when you’re stressed? This is a very common reaction to daily stress. Many people find that exercising stress management and relaxation strategies improves their sleep and alleviate bruxism.

Bruxism can also be caused by misaligned, missing, or crooked teeth. The treatment of bruxism caused by dental alignment difficulties necessitates the services of a dentist or orthodontist. If you have crooked or irregularly spaced teeth and several of the top three bruxism symptoms, now is a good time to pursue orthodontic treatment or Invisalign to address these concerns. In addition to a more confident smile, you may sleep better and have less pain.

Some drugs might cause or worsen bruxism. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) such as Prozac and ADHD drugs such as Adderall have been linked to tooth grinding in some patients. Please inform your dentist aware of any over-the-counter or prescription medications you are currently using when you visit them.

How to Stop Teeth Grinding

Whatever the source of your bruxism, a dental checkup and consultation are the first step toward a solution. There are a few solutions that Dr. Kim may recommend:

Contact Dentist Lexington KY

Teeth grinding can cause serious damage to your teeth. We recommend that you seek professional dental care from the best dentist in Lexington, KY. Please do not hesitate to contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule your next appointment!

Stages of Gum Disease

stages of gum disease - Lexington KY

Stages of Gum Disease 

Stages of Gum Disease Explained From a Lexington Dentist

One of the primary reasons for tooth loss is gum disease. Gum disease includes two distinct stages. When recognized and treated in the early stages, the dental problem can be reversed, and tooth loss is avoided. Luckily, gum disease can be prevented with the practice of good oral hygiene. In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, the best dentist in Lexington, KY, briefly discusses the different stages of gum disease.

Early Stages of Gum Disease

This stage just affects the soft tissue of the gums. Therefore, the patient may not feel any pain. Even if the symptoms are moderate, it is critical to detect gum disease at this early stage before it advances to periodontitis.

Gingivitis Symptoms May Include:

  • Gums that are swollen or bleeding
  • A metallic taste in the mouth
  • Bad breath
  • Receding gums
  • Increasing the distance between teeth

Periodontitis – Gum Disease in its Advanced Stages

Periodontitis is a more advanced form of periodontal disease that, if allowed to proceed, affects not only the gums but also the bone structures that support the teeth. Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says that the symptoms may not be noted until moderate periodontitis is established if regular dental appointments are not made.

Gums That Are Healthy

If you regularly pay attention to your gums and teeth, you’ll know when something is abnormal. Additionally, Healthy gums are pink and firm. Also, they support the tooth well.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is caused by a bacterial buildup. In the early stages, there is visible inflammation around the gums, with gum tissues appearing red and swollen. Gingivitis is indicated by gums that are readily inflamed or bleed during tooth brushing. Plaque removal is required to avoid the development of gum disease. This treatment can be done at a local dental office during a hygiene cleaning.

Slight Periodontitis 

As the gums become inflamed in this stage of gum disease, they begin to pull away from the teeth, causing periodontal “pockets.” Food, bacteria, and plaque start to accumulate in the pockets, resulting in infection. Both bacterial toxins and the immune system’s response to infection destroy the surrounding bone.

Moderate Periodontitis 

Periodontitis symptoms worsen as the disease spreads, and some discomfort may develop. More bone is lost, teeth become looser, and the gums recede further. Additionally, this is one of the last opportunities to treat periodontitis. So, contact an emergency dentist in Lexington, KY for treatment.

Advanced Periodontitis

Advanced periodontitis, a leading cause of tooth loss in adults, is characterized by painful abscesses caused by the infection extending beneath the gums. This stage of gum disease is irreversible. Patients who lose their teeth will need to undergo restorative dentistry to prevent additional oral health problems. 

For help with your oral health, please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY.

The Basics of Gingivitis

basics-of-gingivitis-lexington-ky

The Basics of Gingivitis 

All The Basics of Gingivitis 

Did you know that most Americans will get gum disease at some point in their lives? In fact, it affects over ¾ of the population. If you’re not familiar with gum disease, gingivitis is one of the first stages of this dental problem. Luckily, it can be easily managed, treated, and even prevented. In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, the best dentist in Lexington, KY, discusses the basics of gingivitis. 

What is Gingivitis? 

Gingivitis develops when plaque accumulates on teeth and creates toxins that irritate the gums. Additionally, many patients are unaware that they have gingivitis at first because the symptoms are so mild. Some symptoms to watch out for include bleeding, puffy, pain, inflamed, or red gums. Gingivitis must be managed so that it does not advance to a more dangerous form of gum disease.

Dr. Kim says that the most effective way to combat gingivitis is to remove plaque from your teeth on a daily basis. Other risk factors for gingivitis include smoking, stress, hormonal fluctuations, poor nutrition, drugs, and chronic conditions. Our friend, Dr. Dave Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, says that women who are expecting or nursing are more at risk for developing gum disease. Therefore, it is important that these patients are adamant about their oral hygiene. 

Gingivitis Treatment and Prevention

Here are some important techniques for preventing gingivitis or gum disease. Furthermore, these daily habits will decrease your chances of developing most dental problems. 

  • Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
  • Use an antigingivitis mouthwash 
  • Floss every day
  • Visit your dentist in Lexington, KY, for hygiene and periodontal health evaluation

Gingivitis vs. Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis and periodontitis are both stages of gum disease. Out of the four stages, gingivitis is the most common type of gum disease. As mentioned above, those with gingivitis will experience inflamed, puffy, bleeding gums. Gingivitis is reversible, but if not treated by your dentist, it can proceed to periodontitis. During this stage, the patient will experience gum recession as the infection gets worse. Without treatment, the patient will develop advanced periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is irreversible and can lead to tooth loss. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of gum disease, it’s important to contact Park Hills Family Dentistry. Our team will help you get your oral health back on track. Call 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!