Tag: best dentist in Lexington KY

Stages of Gum Disease

Stages of Gum Disease Explained From a Lexington Dentist

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

Early Stages of Gum Disease

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

Gingivitis Symptoms May Include:

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

Periodontitis – Gum Disease in its Advanced Stages

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

Gums That Are Healthy

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

Gingivitis

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

Slight Periodontitis

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

Moderate Periodontitis

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

Advanced Periodontitis

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

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

Dental Services for Mission Lexington

Mission Lexington

Mission Lexington 2021

Last month, our Park Hills Family Dentistry team had the honor of celebrating Dr. Kim’s Birthday in a very special way. We had the opportunity to volunteer at Mission Lexington. During this time, we provided dental services to those in need. Our team was so happy to lend a hand. In this article, our dentists in Lexington, KY, share a little about Mission Lexington.

About Mission Lexington

When crises strike, there’s nothing like the compassion from a neighbor’s helping hand. Mission Lexington has been serving the Lexington community since 1978. They help serve individuals and families that are facing a crisis. This organization provides basic human needs, such as food, clothing, shelter, resources, and guidance. They’ve helped nearly 25,000 people in Lexington County just in 2020. With the help of dedicated volunteers and partners, they have been growing exponentially.

How to Help Mission Lexington

There are so many wonderful ways to make a difference. With Mission Lexington, you can volunteer, donate, or host a drive. They can always use extra hands to serve their community. Mission Lexington takes volunteers of all ages! Your children can join the Summer Enrichment Program. Make serving your Lexington community a family activity! They would love the help. To learn more about becoming a volunteer with Mission Lexington, please visit their website!

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry

The Lexington County community means the world to us. We were so happy to help volunteer our dental services to these wonderful people. We’d love to continue helping those in need achieve good oral health. For dental care in Lexington, KY, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today. We’re always welcoming new patients!

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The Basics of Gingivitis

The Basics of Gingivitis

All The Basics of Gingivitis

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

What is Gingivitis?

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

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

Gingivitis Treatment and Prevention

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

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

Gingivitis vs. Periodontal Disease

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

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Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips

Tooth Extraction Recovery

What to Expect for Tooth Extraction Recovery

Having a general idea of what to expect helps alleviate a lot of the worry that might accompany post-operative care. Below is what you can expect post tooth extraction.

Swelling

Pain and swelling around your eyes, cheekbones, and jaw are common the day following surgery. Dr. Kim recommends applying an ice pack every twenty minutes. After twenty minutes, then remove the ice pack for twenty minutes. Keep this on rotation for a few days, several times a day. Our friend Dr. Chris Green, a dentist in Parker, CO, says that after 48 hours, ice therapy is no longer helpful. Therefore, you should transition to utilizing a heat pack to alleviate pain and swelling instead.

Bleeding

You should also expect some bleeding during the first few hours after having your wisdom teeth removed. Beginning 2 to 3 hours after your procedure, change the gauze at the surgery site every 30-60 minutes to help control bleeding. Biting down firmly on the gauze will also assist in limiting bleeding as well. Continue with this treatment until the bleeding has stopped completely. It is recommended that you contact Park Hills Family Dental team for treatment guidelines if the bleeding does not stop or worsens.

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Dos

In most cases, it will take between two and four weeks for the socket (surgical site) to recover completely. Here are some crucial things you may do to aid in the progression of this process:

Keep Your Mouth Clean

It is acceptable to properly brush your teeth the night before your surgery. Dr. Kim says you should wait until the following day to rinse your mouth. From then on, gently rinse your mouth with a cup (8oz) of warm water combined with a teaspoon of salt at least 5 to 6 times a day, especially after meals, using this method.

Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations

Follow your instructions recommended by your dentist in Lexington, KY, for taking any pain relievers prescribed to you to control discomfort and keep you comfortable. Also, if your dentist has recommended antibiotics, make sure to follow the instructions for taking them exactly as advised.

Rest

It is critical to avoid any physical exertion for the first 24 hours following wisdom teeth extraction. Maintain a comfortable pillow position for resting your head and avoid sleeping on the same side of your body as your extraction.

Watch What You Eat

Smoothies, ice cream, yogurt, and pudding are good choices for the first few days because they are soft and slightly chilled. After the first few days, you can gradually transition from liquids to semi-solids, such as warm soup, and then to solids.

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Don’ts

Assuming that you have followed Dr. Kim’s recommendations, there are a few things that you should not do.

Straws

It’s critical not to disturb the blood clot that has formed in the socket, or you could develop a condition known as dry socket, which is painful. During the first 24 hours, refrain from rinsing your mouth excessively, sucking on a straw, or sipping on fizzy beverages.

Smoking

Smoking, in general, is horrible for your health. Patients who use tobacco products need to reframe for at least 48 hours post-tooth extraction. Otherwise, you could experience serious consequences. Alcohol should also be avoided.

Blowing Your Nose

It can be difficult to refrain from blowing your nose post tooth extraction. During the first 14 days, you should only softly wipe your nose rather than blowing it. You could cause some problems with your surgical extraction area.

Eating Hard Foods

Foods that are difficult to chew should be avoided after an extraction because they might cause damage to delicate tissues. Cereals, nuts, and popcorn are examples of foods that are tough to chew after an extraction. Wait a week or so before re-introducing them to your meal plan.

Following these simple tooth extraction recovery tips should help you return back to normal. If you’re experiencing any trouble post-tooth extraction, give our dental office in Lexington, KY, a call.

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Reasons for Tooth Pain

Common Reasons for Tooth Pain

Toothaches can cause serious pain. Unfortunately, there could be several reasons for tooth pain. To ensure that you get back to smiling, Dr. Kim, one of the best dentist in Lexington, KY, explores some of the leading causes of tooth pain. Make sure to call Park Hills Family Dentistry for emergency dental care.

Tooth Decay

The number one reason for tooth pain is tooth decay. When you experience tooth pain within the tooth and surrounding areas, it’s likely that the inner layer has been damaged—ultimately leading to tooth pain, sensitivity, and cavities. “Tooth decay can be detrimental to a patient’s oral health,” says Dr. Kim. If the sensation changes from an ache to sharp pain, the decay may have reached the center of the tooth. This causes excruciating agony, making it impossible to go about one’s normal activities. These problems must be addressed as soon as possible. Otherwise, more serious dental problems will occur.

Misaligned Teeth

Braces, retainers, and other dental alignment devices are typical reasons for tooth pain. Pain is commonly felt immediately after adjustments that tighten or shift teeth, although it normally goes away after a few days. If the pain is still excruciating and persistent, talk to your dentist in Lexington, KY.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

Misaligned teeth can press against others, pulling them out of alignment and causing aches and pains. As you may know, impacted wisdom teeth, also known as wisdom teeth, can be exceedingly painful because they fester below the gum line and occasionally push against adjacent teeth. If these issues have not previously been addressed, they should be brought to the attention of your Lexington, KY dentist. For misaligned teeth, an orthodontic remedy, such as braces, will most likely be recommended. A tooth extraction is necessary for an impacted wisdom tooth.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common cause of tooth, jaw, neck, and related muscle pain. People who grind their teeth usually do so while sleeping or under stressful conditions. Excessive teeth grinding entails clenching the jaw rapidly and grinding the top and bottom teeth back and forth against each other.

This can cause aching jaw bones and joints, headaches, and even fractured or chipped teeth, which are all quite uncomfortable. The most effective way to treat Bruxism or TMJ is to have a personalized mouthguard constructed that is worn while sleeping to ease tension on the teeth and jaw.

Damaged Fillings

Dental fillings that cover deep pits, valleys, or cracks in teeth typically safeguard the tooth’s vulnerable areas. When these shields are compromised, the sensitive regions of the teeth are exposed to high temperatures, food particles, and microorganisms. This can cause pain ranging from a subtle aching to a strong, piercing sensation. If you have a broken filling or sealant, make an appointment with your dentist right once to get it repaired before the vulnerable regions of your tooth suffer further damage or decay.

Tooth Fractures

Teeth can be cracked or chipped in a variety of situations, including a fall, sports, or biting down on something hard or sticky. If you have pain in a fractured tooth, it implies that the fracture has reached the nerve endings in the center of the tooth, which can cause terrible pain. This may not occur immediately when the tooth is chipped or broken, but it may develop over time as the tooth damage worsens. As a result, all fractures and chips should be treated by your dentist as soon as possible and before they deteriorate. If you believe you have fractured your tooth, contact an emergency dentist in Lexington, KY.

Periodontitis

Gum disease is distinguished by a dull pain in the mouth, red, bleeding gums, and, in certain cases, tooth pain. Inflammation of the oral bone and gums is a common cause of this. If left untreated, teeth, gums, and bones may be damaged or lost, and surgical measures may be required to clear the infection from the mouth.

Tooth Abscess

When tooth decay progresses to the root beneath the visible tooth, there is a good possibility that the root and surrounding tissue have become infected. This will cause extensive throbbing pain, making it difficult to distinguish which tooth is causing the discomfort. This is a very dangerous problem that must be addressed professionally as soon as possible since it can lead to bone and tissue loss. That, obviously, is not a good time.

Contact Dentist in Lexington KY

As you can see, there are several reasons for tooth pain. If you’re dealing with any of the above symptoms, please contact our dental office in Lexington, KY, for an evaluation. Additionally, Dr. Kim or Dr. Oberst will see what’s going on and determine the best solution. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today!

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Guide to Dental Bonding

A smile is generally the first thing people notice about you. Those with chipped or stained teeth usually don’t feel as confident to show off their smile. Dental bonding is one of our favorite ways to improve the appearance of teeth. Our dentists in Lexington, KY, understand how essential a flawless smile is for your self-esteem. That is why we provide a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures. In this article, Dr. Kim shares her guide to dental bonding.

What Is Dental Bonding?

To determine whether dental bonding is the best dental procedure for you, you must understand what it is. Dental bonding is a straightforward and low-cost cosmetic dental surgery in which the dentist applies a piece of tooth-colored resin to the injured tooth. An ultraviolet (UV) light is subsequently used to attach the resin to the tooth. Dental bonding procedures are popular among people who have chipped or fractured teeth, discoloration, or gaps between their teeth since they are straightforward and quick to do.

Because it is a short and straightforward procedure, there is no downtime required. You may resume your typical activities the same day. The time required to complete the operation varies based on the number of concerns that must be addressed. Following that, the bonded tooth doesn’t require extra maintenance. Just follow your recommended brushing and flossing regimen.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding

Even if you’ve chosen dental bonding over lumineers or crowns, it’s critical to understand the procedure’s benefits and drawbacks, so you have all the information you need.

Pros of Dental Bonding

The most significant advantage of dental bonding is its low cost. It is one of the most affordable and straightforward dental procedures accessible. It can be completed in a single visit and does not necessitate specific fitting. This implies you won’t need to wear a temporary crown because no custom-made product is being developed particularly for you. Any shaping or molding that is required is completed at the time the teeth are bonded.

It is also a process that removes the least amount of enamel from your teeth, compared to veneers or crowns. The enamel is a strong outer covering on your teeth that protects teeth from further disease.

Furthermore, unless a cavity is being filled, dental bonding is usually quick and painless. Using a compositing resin as a replacement for amalgam fillings has its own set of benefits. It is far more durable than dental amalgam, blends in with the rest of your teeth, and does not necessitate the removal of any healthy tooth surface.

Cons of Dental Bonding

While composite resin is stain-resistant, it is not as stain-resistant as veneers or crowns. Another disadvantage is that the material for dental bonding won’t last forever. Dental bonding is generally used to fix minor imperfections such as chipped or gapped teeth. A dentist is unlikely to use dental bonding for anything other than minor cosmetic alterations, says our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction. Furthermore, because the bonding material is essentially plastic, the tooth is significantly more easily chipped or broken off. If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, lumineers are a great option.

Types of Dental Bonding

Dental bonding methods are classified into two types: adhesive bonding and direct composite bonding.

Adhesive bonding: This treatment includes attaching a restoration to a damaged tooth using an etchant — a sort of acid or caustic chemical — as well as an adhesive and a curing lamp. Adhesive bonding is ideally suited for metal-free fillings, porcelain veneers, and crowns.
Composite bonding: This is the most common type of dental bonding. The dentist develops a composite resin that matches the color of your teeth, molds it to fit your teeth, and then bonds it to your teeth with a bonding agent. The resin is then cured using a UV laser, and the bonded tooth can be sculpted further once it has hardened.

Contact Dentist in Lexington, KY

After reading our guide to dental bonding, you’ll know that there are many pros and cons of dental bonding. If you’re looking for an affordable option for fixing a chipped or stained tooth, dental bonding may be the option for you. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to see which treatment is right for your smile.

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How Dental Implants Improve Your Smile

Dental implants can have a positive impact on your smile. This restorative dentistry treatment replaces any missing teeth and can help with other treatments like bridges or dentures. To see if this dental treatment is for you, Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, shares how dental implants improve your smile.

Prevent The Loss of Other Teeth

A dental implant is made up of a titanium screw, which is surgically implanted into your jawbone beneath your gum line. The screw forms a natural attachment with your jawbone and is attached to a custom-made prosthetic tooth known as a crown. Patients love that his treatment is a permanent tooth replacement option.

You may be wondering why your dentist may recommend dental implants. Dr. Kim explains that your jawbone can begin to weaken when a tooth is extracted and not replaced. Other teeth may be lost as a result of this. Wearing dentures and bridges can also put a strain on your other teeth. In some cases, your natural teeth must be ground down to allow for the insertion of bridges, which can lead to tooth loss. When you have dental implants, none of this is needed. In fact, dental implants stimulate bone growth, which improves both your jawbone and your existing teeth.

Prevent Gum Disease

Dentures and bridges can obstruct excellent oral health by making it more difficult to eliminate food and bacteria through brushing and flossing. Gum illnesses such as gingivitis and periodontitis can cause gum swelling, bleeding, infection, tooth loss, and inflammation. This is all a result of poor dental hygiene.

Bacteria and inflammation can spread throughout your body as a result of severe periodontitis. It’s important that you visit your dentist in Lexington, KY, for deep dental cleanings. This dental problem may increase your chances of developing heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, pregnancy issues, infertility, Alzheimer’s disease, and lung infections.

Brushing and flossing with dental implants can be easier than with dentures and bridges. Because implanted teeth feel like real teeth, you can brush and floss completely. As a result, getting dental implants are lowering your chances of developing gum disease and the accompanying health hazards.

Improve Daily Tasks

If you or someone you know has dentures or bridges, you’re definitely aware of the lengthy list of things to avoid, which includes nuts, nut butter, seeds, whole grains like popcorn, certain raw vegetables like carrots and corn on the cob, and some fruits like raspberries, apples, and pears.

Some of the foods on this list are extremely nutritious. Fruits and vegetables, for example, are high in nutrients associated with heart health. Furthermore, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains are high in fiber, which has been associated with a lower risk of a number of health issues, including heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and several types of cancer.

When you have dental implants, you don’t have to limit your intake of healthy foods, explains Dr. Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA. You may also indulge in a treat from time to time. Anyone up for some peanut brittle?

Improve Your Quality of Life

Missing teeth, ill-fitting dentures, or bridgework that causes pain or self-consciousness can undermine your self-esteem and sense of self-worth. Feelings like this can have a substantial influence on your quality of life and, in turn, your health over time.

When you’re confident in yourself, anything seems achievable. You are more likely to engage in health-promoting habits such as eating healthier foods, exercising, avoiding tobacco products.

Contact a Dentist in Lexington, KY

Now that you know how dental implants can improve your smile, you can decide if they’re worth getting. Ultimately, dental implants can enhance your oral health and overall well-being if you have missing teeth, dentures, or bridges. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we can assist you in determining whether dental implants are the best option for you. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule your dental implant consultation with Dr. Kim and Dr. Oberst.

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Deep Dental Cleanings: Should I Get One?

Deep Dental Cleanings: Should I Get One?

A deep dental cleaning, also known as gum therapy, is a treatment that cleans between the gums and teeth all the way down to the roots. The hygienist or dentist will clean the tooth, gum line, and sides of the teeth, just like a routine cleaning. Additionally, tartar below the gum line to the root of the tooth is removed.

What is a Deep Cleaning?

It is more thorough than a conventional cleaning and is intended to cure and prevent gum disease from worsening. In this article, our dentist in Lexington, KY, discusses deep dental cleanings and if you should get one.

Hygiene and Periodontal Health

Because your mouth is full of bacteria and plaque, it’s recommended that you brush twice a day and floss daily. Routine checkups and cleanings aid in the removal of plaque that accumulates on your teeth on a daily basis. The majority of the plaque is found along the gum line, which most of us overlook when brushing. Plaque hardens to tartar, which your dental hygienist will remove during routine cleanings.

If you don’t brush your teeth on a regular basis, or if you are at risk for gum disease, your gums may develop gingivitis. Symptom so of gingivitis includes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when touched. If left untreated, this can progress to periodontal disease, a more severe stage of gingivitis. Dr. Kim urges you to treat your gingivitis before it develops into tooth loss.

Gum Disease

Suspect you have gum disease? Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, for an evaluation. To determine if there is an infection, we will take dental x-rays and assess the depth of the pockets. This is standard practice. You’ve probably heard your hygienist readout numbers while evaluating each tooth.

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Teeth Cleaning

Comparing routine teeth cleaning to a deep teeth cleaning is akin to comparing apples and oranges, says our friend Dr. O’Grady, a dentist in Denver, CO. He explains that the two treatments accomplish very different tasks. A regular cleaning’s purpose is preventative maintenance, whereas a deep teeth cleaning’s purpose is to halt periodontal disease.

Do I Need a Deep Cleaning?

Only your dentist or dental hygienist can be certain. If your dentist finds considerable pockets—those four mms or larger—you are at risk for (or in the early stages of) periodontal disease. This qualifies you for a deep cleaning. A dental deep cleaning visit will stop the periodontal disease from getting worse. Without treatment, the bacteria that caused your gum pockets will continue to cause plaque, tartar, and bone loss.

You are not alone if you have been informed that you need a deep cleaning at the dentist. Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems today. Luckily, gum disease or periodontal disease is preventable. As mentioned above, it’s crucial that you follow a good oral hygiene regimen and visit your dentist every six months.

Contact Dentist in Lexington, KY

Need a deep cleaning? Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry! Our team of professionals will take good care of you and your little ones. Our dental office is located in Lexington, KY. We offer a wide range of dental services. Dr. Kim and Dr. Oberst look forward to meeting you soon!

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Overcoming Dental Anxiety

Many patients dread going to the dentist for a teeth cleaning or dental service. If going to the dentist makes you nervous, you are not alone. Many people have dental anxiety or fear the dentist. Some people even miss their dental appointments because of this feeling. This directly affects their oral health. If you’ve been skipping your dental appointments because of this, read the article below where Dr. Jin shares tips for overcoming dental anxiety.

Ways to Deal With Dental Anxiety

Acknowledge Your Dentophobia

Unfortunately, dental anxiety won’t go away on its own. The first step to fixing the problem is addressing it head-on. Identifying and implementing tactics to help you handle it can be more difficult. If you’re afraid of the dentist, consider why. Is it the needles, drills, or other instruments, the cramped quarters, or the possibility of pain? Did you have a bad experience? If you can identify the source of the problem, you can find a way to fix it.

Choose The Right Dentist

Many dentists, like Dr. Jin or Dr. Olbert, make patient safety and comfort their top priority. Most dental offices work hard to build welcoming and relaxing environments. Inform your dentist in Lexington, KY, about any dental anxiety you might be experiencing. They will help make sure you are comfortable during your entire visit. Our friend Dr. Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, highly recommends looking at online reviews to see if you, in fact, are going to the best dentist in town.

Ask Questions

Uncertainty can cause anxiety. Rather than wondering what’s happening during your dental services, ask questions, so you know what to expect. Inquire with your dentist in Lexington, KY, about what will happen, how it will feel, and what to expect after the operation. Trust us when we say you’ll feel much better if you ask your dentist to explain every step during your visit.

Keep Busy

Keeping the mind busy with other items allows anxiety to take over for a shorter period of time. Bring a friend to keep you company. Listen to podcasts or music while you sit in the chair. Wear earplugs if the whine of dental drills bothers you. Is there a problem with pain? Consult your dentist on using an adequate numbing agent. If you are uncomfortable, do not be afraid to speak up. Our Park Hills Family Dentistry team is here to make you feel right at home.

Sleep Dentistry

One of our solutions to overcoming dental anxiety is providing patients with sleep dentistry options. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, has been used to relieve patient anxiety and pain. Those who inhale the gas stay conscious and aware. Simply put, they are more comfortable and less susceptible to pain. Nitrous oxide dentistry is a simple and inexpensive way to calm nerves and increase relaxation during dental visits.

Ask How We Can Help Dental Anxiety

Park Hills Family Dentistry provides the best dental services in Lexington, KY. From the moment you walk in the door to the moment you leave, we are here to serve you and your family. If you need help overcoming dental anxiety, contact our dental office today. We can’t wait to see you!

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What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Regardless of how meticulous your oral hygiene regimen is, every one needs a professional dental cleaning. These regular dental visits to your dentist in Lexington, KY, will help you avoid dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. You may be wondering what to expect during a dental cleaning at Park Hills Family Dentistry. Dr. Kim shares more in the blog below.

When Should I Get a Dental Cleaning?

Many patients underestimate the power of professional dental cleanings. Over time, tartar and plaque buildup causes teeth to stain and cavities to develop. When you see us for a professional teeth cleaning, our hygienists will remove the tartar. This can only be done by a professional, which is why many Lexington dentists recommend two dental cleanings per year. Here’s a closer look at what to expect during a dental cleaning with our team.

What Do You Do Before a Dental Cleaning?

A dental cleaning is a simple procedure that requires little preparation. Make sure you’re practicing good oral hygiene on a daily basis. Then, before your visit with Dr. Kim, brush your teeth. Your hygienist can clean more thoroughly, but a simple brush helps remove debris and frees up your time for more thorough cleaning. If you have dental anxiety, this is a good way to reduce the amount of time spent in the chair. Do you have any questions or concerns? Write them down so that you can ask them at your appointment.

Your Dental Cleaning

After checking in at the front desk with one of our team members, your hygienist will walk you to one of the rooms. The hygienist will give you an apron or bib to wear to protect your clothes from stains. One of the first things they do is look at your gum lines. You will be asked a few questions about any problems or sensitive areas. Next, your hygienist will start your cleaning. At this time, x-rays will be taken if necessary. You won’t have to leave the room if your dentist has a handheld x-ray device from Digital Doc.

For the first part of your cleaning, your hygienist will gently scrape tartar and plaque off your teeth. If you have a lot built-up, then this part will take longer than the polishing. Then, each tooth will be polished, followed by flossing. This can also eliminate surface stains, allowing your smile to shine brighter. If you are ever dissatisfied with the color of your teeth, you should inquire about teeth whitening.

The Assessment

Once your cleaning portion is complete, Dr. Kim will come in for a full-mouth evaluation. Dentists used to only use a metal probe and an angled mirror, but now we use a variety of tools. The target is the same: to detect any signs of tooth decay. Your dentist will examine your gums for problems such as deep pockets, redness, and inflammation.

Your dental professional will also examine your upper and lower jaw for signs of temporomandibular joint disorder. She will examine the soft tissues in your mouth, palate, lymph glands, and neck for signs of oral cancer. During this time, Dr. Kim will address any concerns she may have. This is also the time for patients to address any questions or concerns they have.

Dental Anxiety

Dental cleanings are quick and easy! They’re an important part of maintaining a happy and healthy smile. Understanding what teeth cleaning entails may alleviate any concern you may have about scheduling your next appointment. However, if you are still nervous, ask about our sedation dentistry options. Sedation dentistry is also known as sleep dentistry, but it does not put you to sleep. Instead, you are awake and aware of all that is going on around you. You can hear and respond to questions and instructions as well. However, it makes you feel less anxious and worried about the treatment.

Sedation dentistry may also help with other issues that can make a dental visit uncomfortable. It can make sitting in the dental chair more relaxed. Please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry if you’re in need of a dental cleaning or other dental services in Lexington, KY.

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