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.

Celebrate Tooth Fairy Day

Celebrate Tooth Fairy Day

Celebrate Tooth Fairy Day  

Celebrating National Tooth Fairy Day With Your Child

August 22nd is National Tooth Fairy Day. It only happens twice a year, so mark your calendars for February 28th. We’re a dental clinic, so we get the amazing sense of excitement that occurs when a child loses their teeth. That’s why our dentist in Lexington KY is excited to celebrate Tooth Fairy Day. 

As parents, you know that the Tooth Fairy has upped her ante in many households over the previous few decades, so you may now have some pretty high expectations to satisfy. Don’t worry; Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, is not here to tell you to empty your pocketbook.  As follows, we’re going to give some tips on how you can aid your kids from the minute they notice their first loose tooth to the moment it falls out. Additionally, we’ll discuss what to do to commemorate this rite of passage.

The First Stage: The Loose Tooth

Most children will have their first loose tooth around the age of six, and their baby teeth will generally come out by the age of twelve. Dr. Jinyoung Kim explains what causes a tooth to loosen in the first place. As previously said, we are born with baby teeth that, like the rest of our bodies, go through developmental changes to provide us with a permanent set of stronger and more suitable human needs. When a tooth breaks loose on its own, it implies that bone cells are breaking apart the root to make place for the permanent tooth.

Naturally, the sensation of a loose tooth is novel for children, and it might be perplexing and strange for first-timers. We got with our friends over at Bookcliff Family Dental, dentist in Grand Junction CO, to come up with some pointers to help you prepare your child for what to expect when they have a loose tooth:

Use child-friendly literature: We’re talking about classics. The more you expose your youngster to pertinent facts, the less worried and anxious they will be about the event.

Do not try to force it out.

 Remind your youngster that the tooth will fall out naturally (in most circumstances) when it is ready. Avoid tugging or extracting since it may need an unnecessary visit to our office. We don’t want to see you because we don’t want to see you, but there are methods to save yourself a trip.

Have your child expect the blood.

Tell your child that there may be some blood when the tooth falls out and that this is normal and to be expected.

Apply a cold compress.

 Loose teeth can be painful, especially if you’ve never felt one before. If your child displays pain or soreness, apply a cold compress to numb the area and provide relief. Over-the-counter medications such as Children’s Tylenol may help provide relief from discomfort.

Keep the area clean.

It might be difficult to brush or floss regularly with a loose tooth, so we recommend doing your best to assist your child in keeping the area clean. Swish warm water around in your mouth to eliminate debris from the loose tooth and aid in the reduction of bacterial accumulation.

Phase 2: When Loose Becomes Lost

You’re all set, Tooth Fairy. It is now your turn to shine. You’ve walked in your child’s shoes, and now it’s time for you to go through your rite of passage.

Here’s some guidance from us:

Clear your calendar

 Make sure you’re available, or at least on call so that you can join your youngster on this beautiful adventure (unbeknownst to them).

What to leave behind: To mark this event, tradition strongly dictates that you give your child some cold, hard cash. Of course, the quantity is entirely up to you, but $1 is still a strong currency in our group. We’d also suggest getting your child a new toothbrush and a fresh, new tube of personal toothpaste. It’s an excellent opportunity to “subtly” promote proper dental hygiene habits.

How to Keep the Surprise a Secret: Let’s face it: going beneath the pillow while your child is already asleep and without waking them up is a skill. You’re not quite there yet; more practice is required. Could we suggest a little replacement cushion for a bedside table? You could even decorate it with the date of your child’s first tooth loss and anything else unique to or meaningful of your child.

Keeping things in good condition

 Children are amusing since they usually desire to preserve and keep their teeth. Or maybe it’s you who wants to; there’s no judgment here. Additionally, we recommend that you prepare a separate tooth bag or box for your youngster to hide their treasures in.

Phase 3: Have Fun, But Keep Your Boundaries

…so you don’t start with something so fantastic that your youngster expects an extravagant celebration every time. We agree that it’s a huge event, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to incorporate some kind of instructional component.

As follows, are some fun and instructive ways to help your youngster celebrate:

A reason for the family night: “Tooth Fairy” is a family-friendly film that fits the theme and can even earn you some quality time with your loved ones. Of course, if you can get away with it, we recommend serving up some healthful delights like crispy veggies instead of popcorn.

Make a thank-you note: Suggest that your child develops the habit of sending a message for the Tooth Fairy, expressing gratitude and appreciation for the bounty received or outlining how to take good care of your teeth. Any opportunity to make a short reference to dental hygiene is a plus!

Get creative: If your child enjoys drawing, painting, or any other expressive or artistic skill, take advantage of the opportunity to encourage them to take a picture, cartoon, or piece of art that symbolizes their first Tooth Fairy encounter.

Have Fun

We hope you can use these tips and tricks to have a wonderful time celebrating this special day with your child. Additionally, please let us know how you plan to celebrate tooth fairy day on social media. We’d love to hear from you. Interested in an appointment? Contact our Lexington KY dentist today.

Lumineers vs. Veneers

lumineers vs. veneers - Dentist in Lexington KY

Lumineers vs. Veneers 

The Difference Between Lumineers vs. Veneers

Cosmetic dentistry has come a long way. In fact, there are so many new advancements, such as same-day dental crowns, that more patients are seeking treatment. One popular treatment we see today is veneers or lumineers. Veneers and lumineers are very similar. They both are made of porcelain material that can fix dental issues such as stains, discoloration, gaps, chipped or cracked teeth. If you’re looking for a perfect smile, consider lumineers of veneers. So, what’s the difference between lumineers vs. veneers? In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, explains more.

What Is the Difference Between Lumineers and Traditional Veneers?

As we mentioned above, lumineers and veneers are very similar. However, there are some distinct differences between the two cosmetic treatments. Below is the difference between lumineers vs. veneers: 

Thickness

Since traditional porcelain veneers are made of thicker material, patients would need to get some of their tooth enamel removed. The tooth is shaved down so that the veneer can be glued to the outer part of the tooth. The end result looks natural and stunning. Lumineers, on the other hand, do not require enamel removal. They fit nice and snug over any size tooth. Additionally, this does not affect the durability or strength of the treatment, explains Dr. Jinyoung Kim. Their translucence seamlessly integrates with the existing tooth to reproduce the desired natural look without the invasive process of enamel removal.

Permanence

Another disadvantage of traditional veneers is that it is permanent because of the removal of the enamel. Once you undergo treatment, it cannot be reversed. So, if a veneer is damaged in any way or needs to be removed, you will need to replace it. Keep in mind that dental veneers last from 10 to 30 years. Of course, if you need to remove the lumineers, your tooth enamel would still be intact. 

Comfort

Despite the fact that many patients don’t go to the dentist because it can be uncomfortable, lumineers are virtually pain-free. As previously said, there is no need for tooth reconstruction. Thus there are no needles and no pain, as opposed to standard veneer placement. Our friend Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, says that the thinness of the lumineers provides the patient with no additional sensitivity or discomfort after placement. 

The Similarities of Veneers and Lumineers

Although there are some differences between lumineers vs. veneers, there are many similarities: 

  • Made of porcelain material to create a natural and youthful-looking smile. 
  • Can improve the appearance of your smile
  • Hides any imperfections such as gaps, discoloration, or chips. 
  • Durable
  • Minimal maintenance
  • Similar in price

Are Lumineers for Me?

As you can see, both lumineers and veneers offer great advantages. If you aren’t totally satisfied with your smile, know that veneers or lumineers can help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted! Park Hills Family Dentistry would love to help you on your smile journey. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to set up your consultation today!

Stages of Gum Disease

stages of gum disease - Lexington KY

Stages of Gum Disease 

Stages of Gum Disease Explained From a Lexington Dentist

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

Early Stages of Gum Disease

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

Gingivitis Symptoms May Include:

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

Periodontitis – Gum Disease in its Advanced Stages

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

Gums That Are Healthy

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

Gingivitis

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

Slight Periodontitis 

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

Moderate Periodontitis 

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

Advanced Periodontitis

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

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

Dental Services for Mission Lexington

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.  

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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!

The Basics of Gingivitis

basics-of-gingivitis-lexington-ky

The Basics of Gingivitis 

All The Basics of Gingivitis 

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

What is Gingivitis? 

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

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

Gingivitis Treatment and Prevention

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

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

Gingivitis vs. Periodontal Disease

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

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips

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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.