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. 

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! 

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

impacted wisdom teeth - Lexington Ky

Impacted Wisdom Teeth 

What to Know About Impacted Wisdom Teeth

If there’s any dental problem you should try to avoid, it’s impacted wisdom teeth. Most people have an extra set of molars, also known as wisdom teeth, that come in during your early years as an adult. Some may need to have their wisdom teeth removed sooner. There’s not much you can do about your wisdom teeth coming in incorrectly. However, there are a few options your dentist in Lexington, KY, will recommend after coming in for an evaluation. In this article, we discuss what to know about impacted wisdom teeth. 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth will require enough room for them to come in without a problem. When there’s not enough room, they become impacted. Wisdom teeth are the last teeth to emerge and typically appear between the ages of 17 and 25. They are no longer necessary because our diet now comprises softer foods, and we have the ability to cut food into little pieces that we can easily chew. 

Wisdom teeth frequently fail to develop in normal alignment or fail to emerge all the way through the gum line. This results in impacted wisdom teeth that become wedged between the gums and jawbone. Impacted wisdom teeth can be quite uncomfortable. If you suspect that your wisdom teeth are coming in, contact our dental office to set up a tooth extraction consultation. 

Symptoms 

Those who have enough room for their wisdom teeth don’t have to get them removed. There are a few symptoms or signs that your wisdom teeth are coming in. Dr. Jinyoung Kim recommends keeping an eye out for these signs:

Swelling and Infection

With impacted wisdom teeth, there is often severe swelling, pain, and infection. The best dentists in Lexington, KY, will tell you that the problem should not be ignored. Furthermore, because impacted wisdom teeth can cause harm to neighboring gums, teeth, and bones, many dentists will suggest tooth extractions. Impacted wisdom teeth are more difficult to remove, put you at a higher risk of surgical complications, and can permanently harm bones and other teeth. Furthermore, the longer wisdom teeth pain persists, the more likely an infection may occur as a result of germs accessing open tissue.Dr. Boals, Colorado Springs dentist, adds that oral infections can have an adverse effect on overall systemic health.

Pain

Pain might be a sign of impacted wisdom teeth, which arise when the jaw bone or other teeth block wisdom teeth from emerging. Jaw pain and tenderness, redness and swelling of the gums around the tooth, foul breath, or a bad taste when you bite down on food are all signs that your wisdom teeth are impacted. Wisdom teeth that have become impacted can also put you at risk for cysts, which are pockets of fluid that grow around the tooth. 

Tumors can grow around the teeth in rare cases. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a sedation dentist in Parker, CO, says that cysts and tumors can cause lasting harm to your jaw bone and other teeth. Wisdom tooth discomfort is not always a symptom that your wisdom teeth are impacted, but the longer you wait to see a dentist, the more likely your wisdom teeth will become affected.

Treatment

Tooth extraction can be performed in either a dentist’s or an oral surgeon’s office. To help you prevent discomfort during the treatment, either local or general anesthetic can be administered. To remove the impacted tooth, follow these steps:

  1. An incision is made in your gums to access the affected teeth and jawbone. After the teeth are pulled, the incision may require stitches to seal.
  2. To limit bleeding and aid healing, the socket where your teeth were extracted will be wrapped with gauze.
  3. Following the removal of your wisdom teeth, your dental expert or oral surgeon should provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for your mouth. Follow their advice to ensure a quick recovery.

Contact Your Lexington KY Dentist

Take action as soon as possible, whether you choose a conservative or surgical strategy to treating your wisdom teeth infection. If you ignore the symptoms of wisdom tooth infection, the situation will most certainly worsen. Furthermore, the older you get, the more difficult an extraction treatment can be. So, if you have an infection, don’t put it off—contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today.

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!

How to Fix a Cracked Tooth

how to fix a cracked tooth - Lexington KY

How to Fix a Cracked Tooth 

How to Fix a Cracked Tooth At the Dentist’s

Our teeth are extremely tough, but sometimes they do break. Teeth can crack for several reasons, but most of the time, it is related to oral health. In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, your dentist in Lexington, KY, shares how to fix a cracked tooth at the dentist’s office. 

Causes of a Cracked Tooth

Broken teeth do not always produce instant discomfort. If the break has reached the tooth’s nerve, you may have periodic discomfort when chewing, as well as sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. Whether or whether you are in pain, all breaks should be evaluated by your Lexington dentist as soon as possible in order to check the health and stability of the tooth and give any necessary treatment to prevent further degeneration or issues.

The following are some of the most common causes of these breaks:

  • Eating hard foods
  • Facial trauma as a result of an accident
  • Sport-related injury
  • Weak tooth due to gum disease
  • Old, massive amalgam fillings

Treatment for Damaged & Fractured Teeth

Minor chips on the margins of teeth rarely cause discomfort or issues, but your dentist may recommend a repair that involves smoothing the edge and putting a tooth-colored filling. This will protect your lips and tongue from being cut by the rough edge.

Since these difficulties are likely caused by a cavity, heavily fractured and severely shattered teeth may necessitate a professional solution. A big hollow can cause fractures and breaks and, if left untreated, can become excruciatingly painful. Cavities in the teeth can also develop infections along the exposed gum line and pulp. In such circumstances, root canal therapy may be required. Cracks and breaks can also expose nerve endings, causing your teeth to be sensitive to hot and cold air and meals.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy is not usually required for broken or chipped teeth. Cracks can be repaired and held together with a specialized tooth cement when there is no discomfort or infection. However, a damaged tooth will likely be treated with a dental crown. Crowns are also used to treat other forms of splits and fractures, such as fractured cusps, split roots or vertical breaks, split molars, and as a preventative measure against subsequent cracks. If your tooth has deteriorated from the inside out and is irreversibly fractured, your Lexington dentist may recommend a tooth extraction.

Prevent Tooth Fractures

A cracked or fractured tooth may not be visible or painful, but just because it isn’t giving you any problems doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, an emergency dentist in Grand Junction, recommends visiting your dentist regularly. Infections can develop quickly, so it’s critical to get the right treatment as soon as possible. Regular check-ups and consultations with Dr. Kim can help prevent fractures and cracks from becoming problems. If it’s been a while since you last visit the dentist, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY.

What To Do If You Fracture or Crack Your Teeth

If you’ve fractured or broken a tooth, take the following steps right away before making an appointment with your emergency dentist in Lexington, KY.

  • Rinse with warm water
  • Apply gauze to the wound
  • Use an icepack for swelling
  • Take over the counter medication if necessary
  • Search for an emergency dentist near me

If your tooth is shattered, avoid brushing it and schedule an appointment with Dr. Kim as soon as possible. Our Park Hills Family Dentistry team will advise you on the best way to repair the break, which may include one or a combination of fillings, crowns, and root canal treatments. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today!

When to Visit the Dentist

when to visit the dentist Lexington KY

When to Visit the Dentist 

When It’s Time to Visit Your Lexington Dentist

Not sure when you last took a trip to the dentist? It’s advised that every patient visits the dentist every six months. So, if it’s been over six months since your last visit, it’s time to schedule your appointment! There are some other factors that it’s time to visit the dentist. Below, Dr. Jinyoung Kim shares when it’s time to visit your dentist.

Teeth Sensitivity 

Uncomfortable sensation every time you eat or drink hot/cold foods? It’s likely that your teeth are slowly decaying. Plaque on your teeth produces toxic acids that erode your dental enamel and expose the dentin layer beneath. This layer of your tooth is made up of tiny, microscopic tunnels that lead directly to your teeth’s nerve. Because the dentin layer is exposed, hot and cold foods can directly access your nerve, causing severe discomfort. While your dental enamel cannot regrow, it can be repaired by our dentists in Lexington, KY.

Bleeding Gums

Do your gums bleed after brushing or flossing? This can happen when you floss too hard, but if this is regularly happening, you may have gingivitis. This is the first stage of gum disease. It’s important to consult with your local dentist so that you can get treatment right away. If gum disease is left untreated, patients will eventually experience permanent tooth loss. 

You’re Expecting

Pregnancy can affect your teeth in a variety of ways. You may suffer dry mouth, which can make it difficult to speak and swallow due to a lack of saliva. Also, as a result of morning sickness, your dental enamel can erode. Thus it is critical to maintaining a complete dental hygiene practice. If you have any symptoms of gum disease, make an appointment with a Lexington dentist immediately. 

Jaw Pain

If your jaw hurts in the mornings on a frequent basis, it is probable that you are grinding your teeth while sleeping. Our friend Dr. Josh Eastham, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, says that stress, medication, sleep difficulties, misaligned teeth, and other factors can contribute to teeth grinding. It is vital that you address this right now, as grinding your teeth can lead to stress fractures and TMJ issues in the future.

Trouble Chewing/Swallowing

Did you know that 10% of the population suffers from dry mouth? If your salivary glands do not create enough saliva, it can lead to infections, tooth decay, poor breath, and other problems. Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, can be caused by a variety of factors, including some drugs. Regardless of the underlying cause, Park Hills Family Dentistry can help you with a solution. 

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact our dental office in Lexington, KY! Our team is happy to help you get your oral health back on track.

Celebrate Gum Care Month

celebrate gum care month - Lexington KY

Gum Care Month 

Celebrate Gum Care Month with Dentist in Lexington 

September is Gum Care Month! To celebrate, we’re going to help you start the month off right and make your oral health a priority! Proper gum care is key to a happy and healthy smile. In this article, your local dentist in Lexington, KY, shares tips for gums care awareness.  

Why Healthy Gums Are Important

When you think of good oral health, you probably think of healthy teeth. However, healthy gums are key to healthy teeth! They cover and support the delicate roots of our teeth. Without proper care, they no longer help your teeth but instead cause more significant problems. To avoid serious dental problems, patients should make healthy gums a priority. 

About Gum Disease

It is critical to have good oral hygiene so you can detect gum disease early on. Gum disease can develop into much more serious and more painful problems. In fact, there are several stages of gum disease. Dr. Kim points out that gum disease is very common but also treatable in the earlier stages. Here are a few symptoms you should watch out for: 

  • Swollen gums
  • Red/purple gums
  • Bleeding when flossing or brushing teeth
  • Receding gums
  • Gum sensitivity
  • Loose teeth

Gum Disease Causes Other Health Problems

There is a direct link between your oral health and gum disease. In fact, your oral health affects your overall health. Our friend Dr. Wade, a dentist in Pinellas Park, says that some of the health problems patients with gum disease include: 

  • Heart problems
  • Digestive issues
  • Diabetes

Taking Care of Your Gums

The best way to care for your gums is to follow an oral health regimen. Brushing your teeth twice a day, morning and night is essential. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing daily is also important. Flossing can eliminate additional particles that may be missed by brushing. Staying on top of preventative dentistry is also key. Visit your dentist for professional dental cleanings and exams every six months. For quality dental care, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY!

Types of Cavities

the three types of cavities

Types of Cavities 

The Types of Cavities

Cavities are more than simply an annoyance; they are a severe problem that must be addressed as soon as feasible. When you suspect a cavity, it is critical to determine the type of cavity so that it can be treated successfully. Today on the blog, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, discusses the three types of cavities.

What Exactly Is a Cavity?

First, we need to discuss what is a cavity. A cavity is a hole in your tooth (also known as tooth decay or caries). Unless treated, it is an opening on the hard surface of your enamel that constantly expands. Importantly, the deeper the cavity, the more layers of your tooth are damaged.

Our Lexington KY dentist explains that the permanently injured area is also not without pain. Additionally, untreated cavities can cause significant pain and infection. An untreated cavity can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Cavities form for a variety of causes. The most common cause is a lack of dental hygiene. However, bacteria in your mouth, tooth trauma, and drinking sugary drinks can all affect the incidence and severity of cavities. That’s why it’s important to get your biannual teeth cleaning in Lexington KY.  

They’re also quite prevalent. More than 90% of adults in the United States have cavities. Furthermore, more than a quarter of the population suffers from untreated tooth decay.

Cavities Are Divided Into Three Types

The position of the hole on the tooth determines the type of cavity.

1. Cavities with Pits and Fissures

Pit and fissure cavities can be found on the chewing surfaces of the teeth. They are more frequently found on the back teeth. Food particles or plaque that become lodged in the grooves and fissures on the top of the teeth can create pit and fissure cavities.

Plaque and stuck food, combined with inadequate dental hygiene, frequently result in a pit and fissure cavity.

These sorts of cavities are easily treated if found early. Additionally, our friends at Shreveport Dental Solutions, 71105 dentist, says that these are the most common that they see in their practice. Fortunately, fluoride toothpaste can swiftly eliminate an early pit and fissure cavity. However, after the cavity has reached the dentin, the decay must be removed before the cavity may be treated.

2. Cavities with a smooth surface

Smooth-surface cavities form on the teeth’s flat external surface. They are most typically found on the sides of the mouth’s teeth. These are some of the slowest-growing cavities, as well as the rarest.

Smooth surface cavities, such pit and fissure cavities, occur when people do not brush properly or on a regular basis.

3. Cavities in the roots

Root cavities are found on the surface of the teeth’s roots. They are most common in older people. This is also the group most prone to receding gums and other gum problems.

When the gums recede, the roots become visible. As a result, they are sensitive to tooth decay. This is due to the fact that they lack the strong, protective enamel that teeth have.

Contact Park Hills Today For Lexington KY Teeth Cleaning

The best way to avoid cavities is of course, to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Contact our Lexington KY dentist today to book your dental cleaning. We’d love to help you get your oral health on track.