What Are Dental Lumineers?

What Are Dental Lumineers?

What Are Dental Lumineers? 

Lumineers And What They Are

We understand that every patient is unique, and we offer a variety of treatment options to meet each individual’s needs. One popular option is Lumineers, which are a type of porcelain veneer. Lumineers are extremely thin, making them much less invasive than traditional veneers. They are also custom-made to fit each patient’s teeth, so they look natural and seamless. In addition, Lumineers can apply in just two visits to our office. We are confident that you will be thrilled with your new smile! 

How They Could Benefit Your Smile 

Lumineers are a type of dental veneer that is popular among people who want to improve their smiles. While traditional veneers require the removal of some natural tooth enamel, Lumineers are much thinner and will apply directly over the existing teeth. Our friends over at Stuart Dentist , the best dentist in Stuart FL, believe that Lumineers are also very strong and durable, and they can last for many years with proper care. In addition to improving the appearance of your smile, Lumineers can also help to protect your teeth from further damage. Because they are so thin, Lumineers allow more light to reach the surface of your teeth, making them more resistant to staining. In addition, Lumineers can help to fill in small gaps between your teeth and prevent further damage to your tooth enamel. If you are considering Lumineers for your smile, be sure to discuss all of the benefits with your dentist in Lexington KY.

The Process For Lumineers 

The length of time it takes to get Lumineers will depend on the best dentist in Lexington KY and the individual case. In most cases, it takes two visits to complete the process. The first visit is usually for a consultation and to take impressions of the teeth. The second visit is when your dentist will apply the Lumineers. The entire process usually takes less than two hours. However, in some cases, more than one set of Lumineers may need to achieve the desired results. In these cases, it may take longer to complete the process. Your dentist will be able to give you a more accurate estimate of how long it will take to get Lumineers based on your individual case.

Contact Us Today!

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are proud to offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. Whether you are in need of a routine cleaning or more complex procedures, our experienced team is here to help. We understand that finding a dental office that you can trust can be a challenging process, which is why we offer a free consultation for all new patients. During your consultation, we will take the time to get to know you and your dental history in order to provide the best possible care. To schedule your free consultation, please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today. We look forward to meeting you!

 

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!

 

Do Your Wisdom Teeth Really Have to Come Out?

Do Your Wisdom Teeth Really Have to Come Out

Do Your Wisdom Teeth Really Have to Come Out? 

Do Wisdom Teeth Always Have To Be Removed?

Most people have four wisdom teeth, which are the last teeth to come in. Wisdom teeth usually come in between the ages of 17 and 25. Sometimes, they come in without any problems. But they often become impacted, which means they don’t have enough room to come in or come in at an angle. When this happens, they can crowd other teeth and cause pain. They can also be hard to clean, which can lead to decay and gum disease. If your they are impacted, your dentist or oral surgeon may recommend that you have them removed. Having them removed is a relatively simple procedure, and it’s often the best way to prevent problems down the road. So if your wisdom teeth are giving you trouble, talk to your best dentist in Lexington KY, about whether removal is the best option for you.

When Is It Time To Get My Wisdom Teeth Removed

If you’re like most people, you’ll probably start to feel some pain in your upper or lower jaw as they begin to come in. You may feel a sensation of pressure in the back of your mouth, and the gum tissue around the erupting wisdom tooth often becomes sensitive, swollen, and inflamed. However, there’s no need to worry. Wisdom teeth usually don’t cause any problems and can be left alone. However, if they cause pain or overcrowding of your teeth, Dr. Kim at, Park Hills Family Dentistry,  may recommend removing them. Either way, there’s no need to panic. Just sit back and let your wisdom teeth do their thing!

Wisdom Teeth Removal? 

A wisdom teeth removal is a routine oral surgery that can be performed by your dentist or oral surgeon. The first step is to numb the area around your teeth with a local anesthetic. Once you are numb, your dentist or oral surgeon will make small cuts in your gums to expose your teeth. Next, they will remove your tooth or teeth. In some cases, they may need to be removed in sections. Finally, your dentist or oral surgeon will close the incisions with stitches.

After your surgery, it is important to take care of your mouth. Some of our friends in Easton PA at College Hill Dental Group wanted to give some tips and explain how important it is that you will need to brush and floss regularly. Also, you should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours. You may also experience some swelling and bruising after your surgery, but this should subside within a few days. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to contact our amazing team.

If You Think You Need Your Wisdom Teeth Removed Contact Us Today!

If you are looking for high-quality dental care in Lexington, Kentucky, then you need to contact Park Hills Family Dentistry. We offer a wide range of dental services, from preventive care to cosmetic dentistry. Our experienced team of dentists and hygienists will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. We take pride in providing our patients with the best possible care, and we look forward to meeting you.

Full-Service Dentistry

Full-Service Dentistry

Full-Service Dentistry  

Full-Service Dentistry FAQ

Full-service dentistry is a term used to describe a dental practice that offers a wide range of services. This includes everything from routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures such as fillings, crowns, and bridges. This can also refer to practices that offer cosmetic dentistry services such as veneers, and bonding. The benefits of full-service dentistry are that patients have access to a wide range of services under one roof. They can also provide peace of mind, as patients know they can trust their dentist to handle all of their dental needs. In Lexington KY, Park Hills Family Dentistry wants you to know that they are here for all your dental needs with a full-service dentistry.

A Routine Check-up With Park Hills Family Dentistry

A routine check-up at the best dentist in Lexington KY, Park Hill Family Dentistry is the best way to ensure that your teeth and gums are healthy. During the check-up, our professional staff will thoroughly clean your teeth and check for any potential problems. We will also take the time to answer any questions you may have about oral care. At Park Hills Family Dentistry we want to provide you with the best possible service so that you can keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

Advanced Technology 

At our office, we pride ourselves on staying up-to-date with the latest technology in order to better serve our patients. One such tool is the intraoral scanner, which allows us to take digital impressions of your teeth and create a 3D surface model. Our friends at Digital Doc explained that using this camera it will make everything extremely helpful in treatment planning. It will also get a more accurate picture of your smile and develop a custom plan that meets your specific needs. Furthermore, this technology saves you time and money, as it eliminates the need for traditional impressions. We are always looking for ways to improve our service and make your experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible. We believe that the intraoral scanner is just one way that we are able to do that. 

If Your Looking For A Family Dentistry Contact Us Today!

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we want you to feel like part of the family. We provide comprehensive dental care for patients of all ages and strive to create a warm and welcoming environment. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, our experienced team is here to help. We understand that going to the dentist can be daunting, but we’re here to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. So don’t hesitate to contact us today – we can’t wait to meet you!

The Benefits of Clear Aligners

The Benefits of Clear Aligners

The Benefits of Clear Aligners  

Are You Considering Clear Aligners?

If you have crowded or crooked teeth and don’t want to wear wires and braces, clear aligners may be for you. These appliances are comfy and inconspicuous. Invisalign® aligners are designed to form uneven gapped teeth and straighten crooked teeth. Find The Benefits of Clear Aligners below and learn more.

 

Clear Aligners Are Growing In Popularity With Teens

Clear aligners like Invisalign® and ClearCorrect® have this noticeable characteristic. These invisible gadgets replace brackets and metal wires on the teeth. According to studies, teens and youngsters spend a lot of time attempting to fit in. However, most kids with metal braces feel that they can’t entirely blend in. This can lead to issues like despair, anxiety, and a loss of confidence. Compared to kids with metal braces, teens using transparent aligners have stronger self-esteem and are more eager to smile.

A grin informs others that you are accessible, nice, and trustworthy. Clear aligners will give you the courage to smile at work. Unlike traditional braces, which restrict your diet to items that are not hard, chewy, or brittle, transparent aligners may be removed and stored in a case while eating.

Reduced Risk of Jaw Injuries With Correct Teeth Alignment

Misaligned teeth can harm your dental and general health. Skewed teeth might grind together, causing enamel damage. Misaligned teeth can cause speech issues and headaches. With Invisalign® aligners, you can correct present tooth disorders and prevent future ones.

Dental Hygiene Is Easier With Clear Aligners Than Braces

Removable transparent aligners allow you to fully clean your gums, teeth, and other dental elements. In addition, removable aligners may be cleaned independently, eliminating the need to brush around wires and brackets.

You Avoid Metal Braces Pitfalls

Metal braces have several drawbacks that transparent aligners do not. Traditional metal brace wearers experience challenges such as:

Many people with metal braces get abrasion-type injuries to the inside of the mouth from broken brackets and wires poking loose. Clear aligners eliminate this issue by removing brackets and wires.

Forget About Flossing Issues With Clear Aligners

It’s no secret that flossing teeth with metal brackets and wires is difficult, leading to frustrated young patients giving up on flossing entirely (which leads to a whole host of other tooth decay-related problems). On the other hand, clear aligners are removed for teeth cleaning, removing this issue.

Reduce The Risk Of Tooth Discoloration

In some instances, wearing metal braces for long might cause white spot lesions. In addition, the brackets can discolor, causing an unsightly mismatch on the teeth. This type of discoloration does not react well to typical whitening treatments. (With traditional braces, you may help prevent this issue by cleaning and flossing regularly between the brackets, avoiding sugary meals, and eating a clean, nutritious diet.
Our friends at Bookcliff Family Dental, a Dentist in Grand Junction CO, talk about how there are no brackets attached to your teeth to create discoloration, unlike metal braces. Patients using Invisalign® follow a computerized treatment plan. So they know what to expect and how long the procedure will take. Metal braces have a looser treatment plan and a more unpredictable outcome.

Reduced Treatment Time

Compared to metal braces, transparent aligners can cut treatment time in half. In addition, clear aligners often fix alignment issues in up to a year, whereas traditional metal braces can take up to two years to treat. Only your dentist in Lexington KY can correctly advise and estimate treatment time depending on your specific alignment difficulties.

However, there are certain disadvantages to clear aligner therapy. Clear aligners are not suitable for everyone; conventional braces are the best solution if your teeth need to be progressively moved lower or higher to better align with the rest of your mouth. Also, transparent aligners rely on patient participation 100%. To achieve effective alignment on the treatment regimen recommended for you, your clear aligners must be worn for at least 22 hours every day. Except for eating and brushing, you may easily maintain control of your progress by leaving them in. If you can’t resist pulling them out, maybe regular metal braces are preferable for you.

As your trusted Dentist in Lexington KY, we treat patients using clear aligners and metal braces. And if you qualify for Fastbraces, your treatment time might be nearly halved! So make an appointment now to enhance your smile!

Why Use a Tongue Scrapper

Why Use a Tongue Scrapper

Why Use a Tongue Scrapper 

The Benefits of a Tongue Scrapper

 

Even if you’re diligent about your dental hygiene and brush your teeth twice a day, floss regularly, and visit your best dentist in Lexington KY, every six months, you could be overlooking one action that might keep your mouth fresh and healthy. Have you considered caring for your tongue – that squishy collection of muscles that allows you to talk, eat, and swallow? It’s coated in papillae, which are little bumps that let you taste and sense sensations in your tongue.

While the majority of those bacteria are “good” bacteria that help maintain a healthy environment in your mouth, some can cause foul breath, tooth decay, and gum infections. So your overall hygiene and periodontal health are important. As well as food waste and dead cells from accumulating and creating problems. Why Use a Tongue Scrapper? Find out why dentist in Lexington KY is saying about a tongue scraper.

 

Why Use a Tongue Scrapper 

How to Care for Your Tongue

Brushing your tongue softly from back to front with a toothbrush and toothpaste is a simple initial step, especially since you’re already brushing your teeth twice a day. Indeed, research shows that tongue scraping removes germs and improves foul breath more effectively than brushing. In addition, tongue scraping devices consisting of plastic, copper, or stainless steel may be purchased at most pharmacy shops for less than $10.

The Advantages of Tongue Scraping

Although it may not be at the forefront of your thoughts, caring for your tongue is critical for overall dental health. The following are some of the advantages of tongue scraping: Taste has improved. When you scrape the surface of your tongue, it’s almost as if you’re beginning from scratch. Check to see if you detect any differences in taste characteristics the next time you make something sweet or spicy! Better breath. Your tongue is home to a plethora of odor-causing microorganisms. Therefore, you should pay attention to your tongue as well as your teeth and gums if you want to avoid foul breath.

Overall, health has improved. Taking care of your dental hygiene is critical to your overall health. Scraping your tongue can eliminate dangerous germs that cause gum inflammation and help prevent cavities. When these recommended practices for healthy dental hygiene are disregarded, they can lead to other problems such as heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.

Your Oral Health Routine At-Home

Here’s how to include tongue scraping into your morning and evening routines. First, brush, floss, and rinse your teeth as usual. Then, extend your tongue out and use mild pressure to run the scraper across the whole surface of your tongue once or twice, beginning at the rear and working your way to the front. It should not hurt or harm your tongue. If you’re using too much pressure on the scraper, reduce your pressure.

After each pass, rinse the scraper in warm water, then conclude by rewashing it and swishing your mouth with water. It’s a quick and easy last step to your oral hygiene routine, but it may help leave your mouth feeling clean. If your tongue has any visible signs that it isn’t healthy – such as white, black, red discoloration, or sores or soreness that lasts longer than two weeks – make an appointment to see your dentist near you. While browsing the web, go check out Bookcliff for a dentist in Grand Junction.

What is a Frenotomy?

what is a frenotomy

What is a Frenotomy? 

What To Know About Frenotomy

If you suspect your child has tongue-tie, get aid and guidance from your dentist in Lexington KY. Before prescribing the best course of action, Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, will undertake a physical exam to determine what is wrong. Dentists may choose to postpone treatment at times. This is due to the possibility that the issue may not produce any complications or that the lingual frenum will release. Below, we answer, “What is a Frenotomy?”

Tongue-Tied

First, our dentist Lexington KY shares that frenulums can be found in many areas of the mouth. The lingual frenum is the frenulum that is positioned under the tongue. A lingual frenum can sometimes hinder oral function. This results in tongue-tie, a condition in which the mobility of the language is limited. This happens when the lingual frenulum is too short, too tight, or too close to the tongue tip.

Problems

This condition may not be a big issue for some people. However, it can cause problems for others. Some people have difficulties licking their lips or raising the tip of their tongue into their mouth. As a result, kids may have trouble speaking and eating. People frequently have difficulty pronouncing some letters of the alphabet.

Tongue-tie is most common in infants. The illness can impair a baby’s ability to breastfeed and, in rare cases, bottle-feed. In addition, a newborn may not consume enough fluids to acquire weight. The lingual frenulum can relax and detach from the tongue on its own at times. However, in some circumstances, it may be necessary to split it. This may entail the frenectomy operation, which aids in releasing the tongue. If you suspect this, search for a dentist near me to assist. 

Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a surgical treatment that aids in the removal of the lingual frenum. As a result, only the most severe cases of tongue-tie are split. If the baby is under three months old, the surgery can be done using topical or local anesthetic. It is occasionally performed under general anesthesia.

The region must be numbed if topical or local anesthetic is employed. The baby’s head will next be tightly kept in place before the frenum is severed using either a laser or surgical scissors. Babies can nurse immediately following the operation. This technique has minor risks and complications. Tongue mobility is usually restored within a few months following the procedure.

Before the operation, older children and adults may be given local or general anesthesia. When the tongue-tie has been surgically separated, stitches are necessary. After a few weeks, the mouth usually recovers. Our friends over at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry, a pediatric dentist in SLC, share that adults and older children may require speech therapy following the operation. The main danger of a frenectomy is the use of anesthesia. As with any operation, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and injury to the tongue or surrounding tissues.

Takeaway

Tongue-tie can cause nursing issues as well as difficulties speaking and eating. The lingual frenum may need to be clipped on occasion. This can be accomplished with a frenectomy, which is a surgical surgery that divides it. The laser or surgical scissors are used in the process. A frenectomy is typically effective and can help to prevent dental, speech, and feeding difficulties. If you observe any indications of tongue-tie in your kid, you should consult your general dentist.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today

Our team is ready for any needs you may have. Contact us today to make an appointment for a consultation to see if our team can help in any way.

Dental Implants Lexington KY

dental implants lexington ky

Dental Implants Lexington KY  

Dental Implants in Lexington KY

A dental implant is a man-made tooth root in your jaw to support a prosthetic tooth or bridge. Most people, however, use the phrase “dental implants” to refer to the combination of the implant (the artificial tooth root) and the artificial tooth. Dental implants Lexington KY may be an option for patients who have lost one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or another cause and do not want to use dentures.

Dental Implant Types

The most common form of implant is endosteal (in the bone). Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, explains that this can take the shape of screws, cylinders, or blades surgically implanted into the bone of the jaw. Each implant holds replacement teeth depending on the situation it can be one or sometimes more. Patients already wearing bridges or removable dentures may benefit from this type of implant.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

If you meet the following criteria, you are a good candidate for a dental implant:

  • You have overall solid and oral health.
  • Jawbone that is strong enough to hold the implant.
  • You have healthy gum tissues and no periodontal disease.

Dental implants are linked to the mouth’s soft tissues (gums) and underlying hard tissues (bone). Periodontists offer the right mix of knowledge to ensure you obtain a dental implant solution that looks and feels like your own teeth since they have undergone three years of specialized training on top of dental school to make them specialists on both soft and hard tissues.

Dental Implant Procedures: What Are They?

Your dentist in Lexington KY will design a treatment plan for you based on your condition and the type of implant you choose.

Depending on your condition, the following are potential therapy options:

  • Single Tooth Dental Implants – If you are missing a single tooth, a single dental implant can be used to replace it.
  • Multiple Tooth Dental Implants – If you are missing numerous teeth, multiple dental implants might be used to replace them.
  • Full Mouth Dental Implants – If you miss all of your teeth, full mouth dental implants can replace them.
  • Sinus Expansion – The amount and quality of the bone where the implant is to be put is critical to implant success. Due to limited bone quantity and quality and the proximity to the sinus, the upper back jaw has typically been one of the most challenging places to insert dental implants properly. Sinus augmentation, which raises the sinus floor and develops bone for the implantation of dental implants, can assist in remedying this condition.
  • Ridge Modification – Our friends at Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, dentist in Pinellas Park FL, shares that deformities in the upper or lower jaw might leave you with the insufficient bone for dental implants. The gum is peeled away from the ridge to expose the void where the bone is lacking to address the condition. To build up the ridge, the space is subsequently filled with bone or bone replacement. Ridge alteration has been found to significantly enhance the aesthetics of the jaw and increase the likelihood of successful implant placement.

Follow-up on Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants, like natural teeth, require detailed at-home oral care and frequent dental appointments to maintain function and avoid peri-implant disease. Brushing and flossing are still required to maintain your implant clean and plaque-free.

Following your implant placement, your periodontist will collaborate with you and your regular dentist to create the optimal treatment plan for you. Periodic follow-up appointments will be planned to ensure the health of your implant, teeth, and gums.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today for Dental Care

When it comes to dental implants they can be for everyone, we just need to find the right plan for you. We have to pin down what types of implant procedure that is needed for your specific needs  Contact our team to start talking about the dental implant needs you may have. We are here to help you decide what we want to do moving forward.

Our Dentists in Lexington KY

Our Dentist in Lexington KY

Our Lexington KY Dentists 

Celebrating National Dentist Day – Our Lexington KY Dentists

Special days remind us to thank the excellent people who contribute to our lives and communities each year. So, in honor of National Dentist Day on March 6th, don’t forget about National Dentist’s Day in March, the ideal time to recognize that particular individual who keeps your smile gleaming brilliantly all year.

Today on the blog, in honor of this special holiday, our team features our dentists in Lexington KY. Get to know Dr. Kim and Dr. Oberst below!

Park Hills Family Dentistry

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, our team’s goal is to establish long-term relationships with our patients and deliver high-quality, consumer-friendly dental services for the entire family. We are proud to have the best dentist in Lexington KY on our team.

Get to Know Dr. Kim

Dr. Jinyoung Kim, DMD, is a native of South Korea who earned a BS in Biology from the University of Kentucky and a DMD from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry in Lexington, Kentucky. Dr. Kim, a dedicated dentist in Lexington KY, offers a comprehensive range of restorative dental services. This includes fillings, crowns, implants, dentures, and aesthetic dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Kim’s ability to immediately establish trust and rapport with new, particularly nervous patients has contributed to her success as a dentist.

In her free time, Dr. Kim enjoys tennis, swimming, golf, hiking, and needlepoint in her spare time.

Get to Know Dr. Oberst

Dr. Shelby Oberst received her bachelor’s degree in biology from Butler University. She subsequently attended the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, where she was recognized for her oral medicine and oral pathology achievements. Dr. Oberst has the honor of becoming the state’s first dental student to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Oberst, our Lexington KY Dentist, enjoys working with youngsters and worried patients in particular. In addition, she enjoys reading and going for walks with her dog in her spare time.

Contact Our Lexington KY Dentists

We are so grateful to have such amazing patients. It is truly our pleasure to serve the Lexington Kentucky area. If you need dental services, please don’t put them off! Preventive dentistry is the best way to keep your smile beautiful. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today to schedule. 

Ways to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

ways to keep your childs teeth healthy

Ways to Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy 

Ways to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy – Children’s Dental Health Awareness Month

As parents, we realize the value of proper oral hygiene and try our best to instill it in our children. Of course, good adult teeth are built on the foundation of healthy children’s teeth! So this week, in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, our dentist near me is discussing ways to keep your child’s teeth healthy. 

How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

Unfortunately, many of the negative impacts of poor dental hygiene can last long into childhood, so what better time than National Children’s Dental Health Month to provide some recommendations for keeping kids’ teeth healthy?

Set a Good Example

First, it’s important to note that kids prefer to copy people around them. So, our dentist Lexington KY recommends being a positive role model by practicing healthy oral health behaviors. For example, brush and floss with your children rather than leave them alone in the bathroom. 

Create a Routine Together

Teach it to them. Show children under the age of three how to use a rice-sized quantity of toothpaste. Once children understand how to spit the paste rather than consume it, they can use a pea-sized amount. Children can floss and rinse with mouthwash daily when their teeth have grown close enough to touch.

Maintain Your Dental Visits

Maintain a consistent schedule of seeing the dentist twice a year, and include your children in the process. You make it a habit by maintaining your appointments, and they will follow suit. Your child should have their first dental appointment between 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth or their first birthday, whichever comes first, and then every year after that. Contact us for a teeth cleaning in Lexington KY. 

Discuss Oral Health at Home

Please discuss with your children what they may expect at the dentist. Discuss any issues you have with your dentist at their dental visits, such as crowding, thumb sucking, tooth loss, mouth guards, and anything else that worries you.

Consume Nutritious Foods

Avoiding sugary drinks and meals not only improves general health but may also spark a conversation about cavities. Allowing sugar to sit on your teeth can cause decay, and we all want healthy, strong teeth to enjoy the things we like.

Brush For 2 Minutes Every Time

Although it is not always possible, it is advised to brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes. Thus, our dentist office in Lexington KY recommends setting a timer. Some apps make brushing and caring for your teeth enjoyable.

Consider Dental Sealants

Talk to your dentist in Lexington KY about getting your child’s teeth sealed for healthy youngsters’ teeth. Sealants can aid in the prevention of cavities and subsequent fillings.

Reward Your Kids

Allow children to pick their toothbrushes (within limits), and consider using a target sheet to track their progress toward a goal that leads to a reward, such as going to the movies or shopping at a toy store. Our friend Dr. Hobfoll, dentist for kids Salt Lake City, says this is one of his favorite tips to get kids excited about dentistry. 

Contact Our Lexington KY Dentist Today

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are proud to offer top-rated dental services in Lexington, KY for all ages. Contact us today to let us know how we can serve your family.