Gum Disease Awareness

Gum Disease Awareness Month

Gum Disease Awareness Month 

In celebration of Gum Disease Awareness Month in February – a global public awareness campaign aimed at avoiding gum conditions – our dentist in Lexington KY wants to spread the word about this pernicious disease. This is because if left untreated, it might damage your smile. Fortunately, you can assist in preventing this from happening!

Gum disease is caused by the relentless assaults of bacteria found in tooth plaque. Plaque is the sticky, white coating on your teeth that you may feel before brushing them. Brushing and flossing every day is necessary to eliminate this bacterial film, which otherwise targets tooth enamel and gum tissue to break them down. Plaque that isn’t removed every day develops into tartar, which must be cleaned with specific instruments at your teeth cleaning Lexington KY. 

Factors Contributing to Gum Disease

As you may have guessed, poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of gum disease. Additional variables, however, can hasten the progression of this condition, including:

  • Stress
  • A high sugar diet
  • Chronic cigarette usage
  • Alcohol intake regularly
  • Misaligned teeth (prevents you from cleaning your teeth effectively)
  • Hormone fluctuations
  • Cancer and diabetes
  • Breathing via the mouth, which dries up oral tissues

Gum Disease Symptoms

How can you know if you have gum disease, mainly because the early stages are generally painless? Our Best Dentist Lexington KY says to keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

  • Gums that bleed when you brush and floss
  • Gums that are red, sensitive, or swollen
  • Chronic poor breath or a sour taste in the mouth
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
  • Gum tissue tearing away from teeth
  • Loose-feeling teeth
  • Altered bite pattern
  • Loose-fitting partial dentures
  • Pus around teeth and gums
  • Chewing discomfort

Our friend Dr. Green, Parker CO Dentist, explains that all of them are indications that you are suffering from gum disease.

Gum Disease Has Three Stages

Gingivitis

You may notice gum inflammation, swelling, redness, and bleeding during this stage, especially during brushing and flossing. The good news is that because the gum disease hasn’t reached the supporting bone and connective tissue, it can be reversed at this point.

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)

This intermediate stage kills supporting bone and connective tissue permanently. As a result, you may see pockets developing beneath the gum line. Gum pockets cause plaque to accumulate beneath the gum line, necessitating interventive periodontal therapy such as scaling and root planing in conjunction with a more rigorous daily oral hygiene program.

Severe Periodontitis

If no periodontal intervention is performed at stage two, you will most likely be at this terminal stage of the illness. This point will have damaged the connective tissue and bone substance. It causes your teeth to loosen and shift out of position, affecting your bite, speech, and chewing skills. Without periodontal care, the teeth will most likely need to be removed.

Be Proactive in Gum Disease Prevention!

Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to keep gum disease from destroying your smile!

  • Maintain a consistent daily oral hygiene practice that includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day.
  • Maintain all biannual dental appointments and cleanings.
  • Drink water after eating (particularly snacks) to rinse away food particles and mouth detritus.
  • Limit your intake of bacteria-feeding sweets, and when you do indulge, chew sugarless gum to enhance saliva flow, which helps rinse away bacteria.
  • If you still smoke, there is no better time than now to quit. Your gums will appreciate it!

We hope that promoting awareness about this condition in honor of Gum Disease Awareness Month motivates you to be more proactive in safeguarding your dental health. After all, a vivid, attractive smile requires healthy teeth and gums!

What is Considered A Dental Emergency?

what is considered a dental emergency

What is Considered A Dental Emergency? 

What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?

Dental Emergencies can happen to anyone. However, sometimes it’s hard to know if you are experiencing a dental emergency. Below, our Lexington KY Dentist shares what is considered a dental emergency. As follows, if you have any common dental emergencies listed below, here’s what you need to know about treating the situation until you can see your dentist near me.

An Unexplained Toothache

Toothaches are more than just a nagging pain that should be ignored. Instead, they are a warning sign from your body that something isn’t right in your mouth. When you have a sudden and unexplained toothache, seek the assistance of an experienced emergency dentist in Lexington KY to help identify and treat the problem.

To relieve pain until you can see your dentist, try applying a cold compress, rinsing with salt water, or taking over-the-counter pain relievers.

Swollen Or Bleeding Gums

Although minor gum irritation is not a dental emergency, bleeding gums, especially if accompanied by pain and edema, can suggest an underlying dental or health problem. It is not usual to have bleeding gums without a clear cause. If you have these symptoms, you should see your dentist straight once.

Jaw or Mouth Swelling

If your mouth or jaw suddenly becomes swollen for no apparent cause, it’s necessary to see an emergency dentist in Lexington KY for rapid treatment. For example, you could have an infection, inflammation of your lymph nodes, or another issue that has to be addressed right once.

Exposed Nerves

Exposed nerves are a painful sensation that can only worsen if you do not see your dentist right away. Seek dental care as quickly as possible to avoid infections, more nerve damage, or more extensive dental treatments later on.

Knocked-Out Tooth

A tooth that is knocked out of your mouth by a powerful force can be extremely shocking! However, now is the moment to act. 

Our friend Dr. Kacos, emergency dentist Shreveport, shared the following instructions to patients with a knocked-out tooth. First, pick up the tooth by the top, being careful not to touch the root, and rinse it gently without scraping. Thus, replace the tooth in the socket if possible. If you can’t, put the tooth in a tiny container of milk. Then, rush to our dentist as soon as possible to enhance your chances of saving the tooth.

Broken Crown

When a dental crown cracks or falls off entirely, your tooth is exposed and prone to infection and harm. You may be able to prevent a root canal or other dental surgery by arranging an emergency dentist visit.

Food or Object Stuck Between Teeth

If a piece of food or another object becomes wedged between your teeth, try flossing. However, if no amount of brushing or flossing will help, you should contact our team as soon as possible. Without the assistance of a dentist, the object may cause your teeth to shift, gum discomfort, tooth decay, or even an infection.

Contact Our Lexington KY Dentist Today

Need dental care in Lexington KY? We’re here to help! Contact our Lexington KY Dentist today. 

Cosmetic Dentistry Options Near Me

Cosmetic Dentistry Options near me

Cosmetic Dentistry Options 

What Are My Cosmetic Dentistry Options in Lexington KY?

Cosmetic dentistry is a type of professional dental care that aims to improve the appearance of your smile, mouth, and teeth. As follows, most cosmetic dental operations are considered optional, some of them offer restorative advantages. In addition, some cosmetic operations are easy, while others are difficult. Our dentist in Lexington KY  shares your cosmetic dentistry options below. 

1. Composite Bonding

First, composite bonding is a minimally intrusive, low-cost, and quick approach to brighten your smile. As follows, composite bonding is a dental procedure that involves molding a dental substance called composite resin. Our  Lexington KY dentist explains that this gives teeth a straighter look and a brighter smile. Additionally, it might be used to improve the appearance of individuals with gapped, chipped, or discolored teeth. Additionally, bonding is often completed in a single session. 

Not everyone’s teeth are suitable for composite bonding. This treatment will not cure a crooked grin caused by an under or overbite. Furthermore, check with your dentist near me about the best solution for modifying your bite or filling difficult gaps and chips in your teeth. 

The procedure is now incredibly efficient when completed by your dentist Lexington KY. 

2. Teeth Whitening

Teeth bleaching and whitening are two of the most common cosmetic treatments nowadays. Our cosmetic dentist in Lexington KY performs teeth whitening after removing dirt, tartar, and plaque from the tooth surface in order to restore the tooth’s natural appearance. Different people have varying degrees of staining on their teeth. Some teeth are inherently yellow, whereas others begin to yellow as they age. More information may be found on our blog, which includes cosmetic dentist suggestions for teeth whitening as well as advice for boosting your at-home teeth whitening.

3. Dental Implants Lexington KY

Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth. To support the crown, a tiny titanium screw is placed into the jawbone near a lost tooth. The implants are designed to look like real teeth. After the surrounding bone, the implant, and the bone have fused, the implant is permanently put.

You should find an expert dentist if you want a successful cosmetic implant. If you do not have enough bone to support the implant, bone grafting may be performed. It is also important that you notify your dentist about your medical history since some illnesses, such as liver disease, brittle diabetes, or bleeding problems, may interfere with implant placement.

It is important to floss and clean your teeth every day. Additionally, Kissing Camels Family Dentist, Cosmetic Dentist Colorado Springs, advises avoiding smoking after your cosmetic implant since it destroys the bone structure. Ice and hard foods should also be avoided since they might harm the crown. Seeing a dentist at least twice a year will also help the implant’s success and your general dental health.

4. Clear Aligners

Clear aligners are an excellent choice for individuals who want to fix misaligned or crooked teeth. This orthodontic treatment, which helps to gradually modify your smile, is a transparent, detachable alternative to traditional wire braces.

Patients benefit from the flexibility and convenience of transparent aligners. Our dentists will design your clear aligners specifically for your mouth and particular smile objectives. Inquire about clear aligners right away!

5. Dental Veneers & Lumineers

Porcelain veneers are used by cosmetic dentists to treat a wide range of aesthetic difficulties, including mending damaged or broken teeth, straightening crooked teeth, and closing gaps between teeth. Veneers cover your real teeth with a permanent veneer of tooth-colored material to disguise stains, chipping, discoloration, and misalignment.

Additionally, we offer lumineers. Because Lumineers are as thin as a contact lens, they need little to no dental preparation and no anesthesia. Lumineers are attached to your teeth and cured with light. Because the procedure is less invasive than traditional veneers, lumineer patients can enjoy their new smiles right away. Additionally, they will have no post-procedure discomfort or sensitivity.

Ready for a cosmetic dental procedure? As follows, discuss your options with our team today! 

Tooth Replacement Options

Tooth Replacement Options Lexington KY

Tooth Replacement Options 

What Are My Tooth Replacement Options?

In dentistry, we strive to provide our patients with healthy, strong teeth that allow them to eat, smile, and speak confidently. Thus, this is a dilemma for many people, prompting them to seek out solutions for replacement teeth. Today on the blog, our Lexington KY Dentist discusses your tooth replacement options. 

When Do I Need Tooth Replacement?

Of course, our dentist in Lexington KY will determine the best tooth replacement options. Everyone’s best option differs according to their condition, finances, and general tooth health. Often, the restoration and replacement process begins with your dentist near me. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants Lexington KY are a popular way to replace a single tooth, a few teeth, or even an entire set of teeth. By replacing tooth roots with titanium posts and locking the replacement teeth in place, implants provide a stable basis for permanent or removable teeth that are created to match your natural teeth.

Implants often necessitate the following three steps:

  • Implant post-surgical insertion
  • Recovery from implant placement
  • Replacement of missing teeth (temporary teeth may be used during the interim steps)

In some circumstances, a dentist can finish the processes in a single appointment, while in others, the process requires a series of visits.

Dental Implant Advantages

Dental implants resemble natural teeth in appearance and function. Additionally, these implants are incredibly long-lasting and will last for many years. In fact, they can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
With dental implants, your teeth will feel solid and stable. Some other benefits include:

  • Dental implants aid in the preservation of bone and bone tissue.
  • As usual, brushing and flossing can be done, making them easier to keep clean.
  • Dental implants can be customized to replace a single tooth without relying on neighboring teeth.

Bonded Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is used to fix gaps in your mouth and is held in place by abutment teeth on either side of the hole. Unlike a regular bridge, which is supported by dental crowns on the abutment teeth, this bridge is supported by a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the abutment teeth’ backs. This bridge can only be utilized if you have natural teeth on both sides of the gap.

Advantages of Fixed Bonded Bridges

Fixed bonded bridges have the appearance and feel of genuine teeth and are less expensive than dental implants.
Also, it is not necessary to remove fixed bridges in order to clean or eat them.

Dentures Supported by Implants

Implant-supported dentures are more durable than standard dentures because implants are held in place rather than glue. The implant’s support allows the dental fixture to be fashioned into a horseshoe. Thus, this minimizes bulk and expands the palate to generate more space for the tongue and more excellent taste. Implant-supported dentures are more durable and do not require glue.

The Advantages of Implant-Supported Dentures

Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, explains that implant-supported dentures are affordably priced solutions for a significant increase in chewing and smiling abilities. Additionally, the implants offer stability, removing glue and allowing the teeth to operate more like natural teeth.

Full-Arch Dental Implants

The full-arch dental implant, also known as an implant bridge or all-on-four, is less likely to fall loose over time and is fixed. Bookcliff Family Dental, Grand Junction CO dentist, explains that it helps maintain bone and muscle tone. Additionally, it enables more confidence in eating and speaking. Full-arch dental implants are the most natural-looking tooth replacement option and the least bulky.

Advantages of Full-Arch Dental Implants

Dentures are less stable and bulky than replacement teeth.  Because this is a permanent installation, there is no possibility of shifting or slipping during the day. They have the appearance and feel of natural teeth.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry For Restorative Dentistry in Lexington KY

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry for tooth replacement options. We would love to help you restore your smile with dentures, implants, bridges, and more.

What to Know About Dental Implants

what to know about dental implants

What to Know About Dental Implants 

What You Should Know About Dental Implants

For many people, the mere prospect of going to the dentist for a routine exam and cleaning is enough to make them nervous. It can be paralyzing for people considering oral surgery, such as dental implants. If this describes you or someone you know, don’t let fear dictate you. Dental implant operations are becoming increasingly prevalent. In fact, there are millions of procedures conducted in the United States each year. The procedure is risk-free, recuperation is reasonable, and the benefits are numerous. Below, our dentist in Lexington KY shares what to know about dental implants. 

What Are Dental Implants?

One of the first things that come to mind when one hears the term “dental implants” is, without a doubt, those gleaming tiny metal posts that no one will ever see. One reason the mind quickly leaps here is that they appear so odd in comparison to the replacement teeth they’ll support. The much more plausible explanation is that this item is the implant portion of “dental implant.” That is the frightening part.

The post or base is often constructed of titanium and will permanently bond into the jawbone. The replacement tooth, which is normally composed of ceramic, similar to regular dental crowns, is then joined to the base with the use of another metal component known as a connector.

What is the Dental Implant Procedure Like? 

Several factors influence the dental implant procedure. Regrettably, not everyone is a good candidate for the treatment. One of the most essential considerations is the condition of a patient’s jawbone. The dental implants Lexington KY really bonds with the bone, guaranteeing that the replacement does not move. This has the extra benefit of preserving the patient’s bone structure. Without it, the jawbone would gradually shrink and collapse, giving the chin and mouth a sunken appearance. This is what happens when regular detachable dentures are used.

If the jawbone isn’t strong enough, bone grafting will be required, which will add another surgical stage to the procedure. Because bone deteriorates over time, the longer a tooth is missing, the more likely a bone graft may be necessary. If the tooth to be replaced is still present in the mouth and has to be removed, this must be done first. Something the implant can be placed at the same session, but sometimes a bone transplant is required and the implant is inserted later.

Dental Implant Alternatives

Whether bone grafts or extractions are required, the surgery and healing procedure might take months. The same is true whether a person requires a single tooth replacement or several. An overview of implant therapy options is shown below:

Replacement of a Single Tooth

In this case, the implanted post will serve as the new tooth’s root. To obtain access to the bone, your dentist near me will cut a portion of the gum apart. The post will then be inserted into the bone, and the patient will be discharged until the bone has healed and fused around the implant. While the surgical location will have a gap till the patient returns for the second procedure, a temporary tooth can be worn until then.

Replacing Several Teeth With Dental Implants

Your Lexington KY dentist can use a bridge to replace many teeth in a row, eliminating the requirement for each replacement tooth to have its own post placed. It is similar to a typical bridge in that it employs two crowns on either side of the missing tooth site to keep in a replacement. Assume you have three lost teeth in a row. Digital Doc, intraoral camera markers, explains that their dental clients use posts. These posts are placed for the two lost exterior teeth rather than for all three. When the patient returns for their replacement teeth to be implanted, they will be given a bridge with a third replacement tooth in the center. A post isn’t required to keep it in place because it’s neatly sandwiched between the other two teeth.

Dental Implants for All Teeth

This is the greatest choice for people who require most or all of their teeth to be replaced. Posts are strategically inserted at the top or bottom of the mouth, or both, to hold the denture in place. A person’s existing denture can be adjusted so that it can be attached to the posts.

Contact Park Hills for Dental Implants in Lexington KY

This is the dental practice for you if you are afraid of the dentist. We like relieving customers’ concerns by offering gentle and caring dentistry. We are convinced that you will feel at ease in our clinic since we treat all patients as if they are family. Contact our team today!

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist 

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist

Are you making the most of your time with your Lexington KY dentist? Inquiring about your oral health is an excellent approach to begin taking a more active part in it. Today on the blog, our dentist in Lexington KY shares important questions we always hope people ask during their dental checkups.

1. What steps can I take to enhance my oral health?

During your teeth cleaning Lexington KY, your dentist will search for and discuss areas of potential future concern, as well as any existing problems. Take note of this information and use it as a springboard to ask follow-up questions.

Request a summary of your general oral health, how you may better manage your daily care, and any other areas where you can improve from your dentist.

2. Is there anything else I should talk about with my family doctor?

We frequently remind our patients that their mouth is a window into their entire health. This is due to the fact that a variety of whole-body health conditions begin with symptoms in the mouth. Certain changes in your mouth, for example, can be an indication of illnesses such as:

  • Vitamin deficits in diabetes
  • Osteoporosis

Furthermore, Bookcliff Family Dental, Grand Junction dentist,  shows that common dental disorders such as gum disease can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other concerns such as preterm delivery.

During your visit to the dentist, ask whether you have any dental issues that you should share with your primary care physician. Find out whether your dentist need any information from your doctor as well. For example, inform your dentist if you have just begun taking medication, as this may result in dental issues (like dry mouth).

3. What are the symptoms of gum disease?

Periodontal disease, often known as gum disease, affects one out of every two American adults aged 30 and over. Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious infection and tooth loss. It’s also linked to a number of chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.

Gum disease is not something to overlook, yet the vast majority of folks who have it haven’t been identified or aren’t actively seeking treatment.

During your routine dental checkup, your dentist will search for indications of gum disease and estimate your risk of getting gum disease in the future. Knowing your risk level and how to spot these warning signals is also essential. Inquire with your dentist about what to look out for and what preventive measures you may take to keep this hazardous condition at bay.

4. Which meals are excellent (and which are bad) for my teeth?

Did you realize that the foods you consume have an impact on more than just your overall health? They also contribute to the health of your teeth and gums!

A diet high in protein, leafy greens, and whole fruit is generally beneficial to your mouth. Sugary, sticky, and acidic meals, on the other hand, can promote cavities and should be avoided. Coffee, tea, and alcohol can also discolor your teeth.

Consult your dentist if you are concerned about how your dietary habits are harming your teeth. You and your dentist can talk about what foods are causing problems with your oral health.

Remember that over-the-counter tooth whitening products might do more damage than benefit. Many will cause dental discomfort and damage to your teeth’s roots. Your dentist might recommend a professional teeth whitening procedure to help you attain a confident smile.

5. Will you perform an oral cancer screening?

Oral cancer may be fatal, therefore it’s critical to get examined on a regular basis. Traditional oral cancer screenings were performed with the naked eye; however, contemporary dental technology now allows dentists to take a more effective approach.

7. Can you assist me in overcoming my dental fear?

You’re not alone if you get worried before going to the dentist. An estimated 60% of the population is afraid of going to the dentist. It’s fine to be worried as long as you don’t allow it prevent you from caring for your mouth.

We offer tons of sedation dentistry options for those who are feeling scared or anxious.

Trust Park Hills Family Dentistry with all of your dental needs. Dr. Kim will ensure that you’re happy with your new and improved smile. Contact our dental office in Lexington, KY, for appointments. 

Maximize Your Dental Benefits

Maximize Dental Benefits

Maximize Your Dental Benefits 

Maximize Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire

Having dental coverage improves oral health, overall health, and well-being. Those who reported having outstanding dental health were twice as likely to report having very good or excellent physical health. Below, our Lexington KY dentist shares  how to maximize your dental benefits before end of year.

Take Advantage of Preventative Dental Care

Regular preventative treatment helps the dentist to detect and treat oral health issues early on. This allows you to avoid costly and significant dental difficulties in the future. Furthermore, most dental insurance plans offer Lexington KY tooth cleanings cleanings, examinations, and X-rays.

The Relationship Between Oral and Overall Health

As our Lexington KY dentist office wants you to know, your dental health is intertwined with your whole wellness. Gum disease has been related to a variety of health problems. This includes diabetes and heart disease, according to research. In reality, the dentist may identify more than 120 disorders during a basic dental exam. As follows, dental appointments can lead to the early discovery of significant problems. Thus, should be included in your entire wellness plan.

Dental Expenses Can Be Paid With Flexible Spending Account Dollars

If your workplace offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), make use of any remaining funds before the end of the year. The majority of dental costs are FSA-eligible healthcare expenses. With an FSA, you cut your taxable income and set away money for medical costs. When you utilize tax-free cash to pay for these costs, our dentist near me explains that you have higher take-home income, considerable tax savings, and more control over your family budget. Thus, our friends at Gentle Dental, Loganville dentist office, note that this allows you to prepare for future expenses such as dental work.

In January, your dental plan benefits may be reset.

With the end of the year approaching, it is critical to examine your dental benefits and understand what is covered under your plan, your remaining yearly maximum available, and when your dental benefits begin again. Dental plans are either calendar or plan year based. If you have calendar-year dental plans, they will renew on January 1, which means you will have to pay your deductible again after the beginning of the year. Your annual maximum will also reset at the start of your dental plan year, so depending on your plan, you may lose some of your previous year’s annual maximum allowance if you did not see your dentist in Lexington KY.

Make the most of your dental benefits before the end of the year by scheduling an appointment with your dentist. It will assist you in beginning 2021 with a healthier smile, improved general health, and more money in your wallet.

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

Facts About Sedation Dentistry  

Facts About Sedation Dentistry in Lexington KY

Some individuals are so afraid of going to their Lexington KY dentist that they refuse to seek treatment for their tooth problems. Needless to say, ignoring the dentist may be detrimental to one’s dental health. As follows, patients who use dental sedation Lexington KY can get the dental treatment they need without feeling worried or unpleasant. Dr. Kim recognizes the value of dental care and is committed to providing patients with a great dental experience. Below, our dental team shares five facts concerning dental sedation. Additionally, these facts are to educate those interested in dental sedation to those who want to reduce their anxiety during their next dentist appointment.

Many Patients Are Eligible

Most patients who want a stress-free dental treatment can benefit from office-based anaesthetic. Adult, pediatric, and special needs patients who suffer from the following conditions are ideal candidates for sedation dentistry:

  • Individuals with dental anxieties or phobias.
  • Those who experience a lot of gagging when receiving dental work.
  • Patients who have difficulty remaining still

Dental Phobia Has Been Around For Centuries, and Sedation Continues to Modernize

To start, dental phobias have existed since the dawn of time. In fact, phobias goes back to 2250 B.C. and has evolved greatly throughout time as dentistry has modernized. Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, explains that dental sedation procedures continue to improve as medical technology progresses, reducing patients’ anxiety at the dentist.

You Won’t Remember Your Procedure

Our Lexington KY dental office explains that the majority of individuals who choose dental sedation have no recall of their operation. So, this is great news for people who have dental anxiety. In addition, it’s good for those who prefer not to remember the specifics of their dentist appointment.

You Can Use Dental Sedation For Longer Procedures

One of the most significant advantages of IV sedation is that it allows patients to undergo more complex treatments in a single consultation.  Our friends over at Bookcliff Family Dental, Grand Junction CO dentist, explains that patients can not only receive the care they require, but they can also make the most of their stay. As follows, this is because patients can book multiple procedures in one appointment. 

Sedation Dentistry is Customizable

Some people may benefit from modest sedation, while others may require a stronger sedative. The sedation approach chosen for your treatment is determined by a number of criteria. Thus, this includes the intricacy of the surgery and your overall health. To ensure that you receive the specialized care that you require, many sedation options are available. Importantly, these are ranging from a moderate sedative to general anesthesia are available.

Contact our Sedation Dentist Lexington KY Today

If you’ve been searching, sedation dentist near me, you’ve come to the right place! At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you relieve your pain. Contact our team today to book your appointment. 

TMJ Awareness Month

tmj awareness month lexington ky dentist

TMJ Awareness Month 

TMJ Awareness Month 2021

Your jaw is essential for chewing, speaking, and singing. Many individuals take this small part of their body for granted – until it begins to hurt. It is probable that you have TMJ dysfunction if you experience continuous discomfort in your jaw (sometimes referred to as TMD). Because November is TMJ Awareness Month, our Lexington KY dentist would like to take this time to talk about what TMD is, how to detect it, and how your dentist may be able to help you find relief with TMJ treatment in Lexington KY.

What Exactly Is TMD?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) links your lower jaw to the rest of your skull. TMD refers to any of a range of problems that impact how the TMJ operates and how it feels. TMD can be caused by a variety of reasons such as trauma, stress, misaligned teeth, poor posture, or persistent bruxism (teeth grinding).

The following are some indications that you may have TMD:

  • Jaw aches.
  • When you open your mouth, you may hear a clicking or popping sound.
  • Frequently occurring headaches & neck aches.
  • Difficulty widening the mouth.
  • Issues with hearing, such as ringing in the ears.
  • Chewing Difficulties

TMJ Therapy by a Professional

Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, have spent a significant amount of time and effort researching the complexities of how the TMJ operates. As a result, they are well-equipped to diagnose and treat TMD.

Your dentist in Lexington KY will recommend a therapy depending on your individual scenario after examining your jaw, analyzing how it moves, and taking X-rays. In certain circumstances, using an oral device to maintain the jaw in a favorable posture is the most effective strategy to combat TMD. In some cases, occlusal correction is required. An occlusal adjustment simply means that the dentist gradually changes the teeth to create a more equal bite and so relieve unneeded tension on the jaw. Surgery is only used in very rare cases to combat TMD and give long-term relief.

At-Home Treatments

In addition to professional therapy, your dentist may advise you to make certain changes to your everyday routine in order to manage your discomfort. We got with our friends at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Colorado Springs dentist, to come up with at-home treatments. Here are some examples of at-home remedies:

  • Attempting to improve your posture
  • Avoiding chewing gum and other sticky or chewy foods.
  • Massage of the face to relax overworked face muscles, alternate wet heat and cold.
  • Using over-the-counter analgesics
  • Managing life pressures by doing more of what you like, taking some time off work, or employing other stress-relieving approaches.

How does your jaw feel?

Visit your dentist in November for a TMJ exam before subjecting it to all the sticky, sweet delicacies of year-end celebrations. We’re always available to help our patients feel their best. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today to learn more. 

Healthy Halloween Tips From Your Dentist

Healthy Halloween Tips from Your Dentist in Lexington KY

Healthy Halloween Tips 

Healthy Halloween Tips from Your Dentist in Lexington KY

Halloween is one of our favorite holidays at Park Hills Family Dentistry! We’re so happy that the Halloween festivities are finally here. We love it all – sweet treats, scary movies, and spooky decorations. Trick-or-treating is awesome, but Dr. Jinyoung Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, wants to make sure your family’s oral health isn’t neglected this Halloween. Follow these healthy Halloween Tips from your dentist!

Focus on Brushing & Flossing

Brushing and flossing your teeth are two of the most basic yet critical steps you can take to maintain a healthy smile. Just two minutes of brushing with fluoride toothpaste will help ensure that plaque and sugar do not build up on your teeth. It is also critical to floss between your teeth, where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. Our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, adds that at-home care is an essential part of preventing gum disease. For more information about gum disease, read Gum Disease Must-Knows.

Choose a Few Sweets to Enjoy.

Although Halloween is just one day of the year, we all tend to snack on sweet Halloween treats well before and after Halloween. This can create a nuisance for your oral health. While avoiding sugary treats is most ideal, it can be a hard commitment, especially if you have little ones. However, you can limit your treat intake. For instance, you can limit to one piece of candy every day. That way, you can still enjoy your treats without putting your oral health on the line. 

Make Healthy Halloween Treats At Home

In your mouth, two types of bacteria cause damage: one feeds on sugar, and the other feeds on starch. A dental plaque is a sticky, colorless film that forms on the teeth as a result of the bacteria. Tooth decay occurs when plaque is not removed by saliva or brushing. Make your own sugar-free Halloween treats if you’re thinking about it. Lots of recipes can be found on the internet, ranging from sweets to savory dishes that can be served at a Halloween get-together.

Stay Hydrated

One of the best ways to avoid cavities this Halloween is by staying hydrated. Drink plenty of water so that the plaque doesn’t stick to your teeth. Dr. Kim recommends drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. This will not only help with your oral health but also your overall health. 

This Halloween, we hope you make your oral health a priority. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule your next appointment! We provide quality dental care for patients in Lexington, KY.