Achieving a Straighter Smile with Clear Aligners

Achieving a Straighter Smile with Clear Aligners

Straighter Smile with Clear Aligners 

Achieving a Confident Smile with Clear Aligners

The pursuit of a confident smile is a journey that can be both exciting and transformative. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of a straight and harmonious smile in boosting confidence and overall well-being. In this blog post, our expert team at Park Hills Family Dentistry will share insights into the world of clear aligners—a solution that discreetly and comfortably aligns your teeth for the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

Understanding Clear Aligners

Clear aligners, such as the popular Invisalign system, are a revolutionary alternative to traditional braces. These virtually invisible aligners are custom-made to fit your teeth and gradually shift them into the desired position. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we recognize the growing popularity of clear aligners due to their comfort, aesthetics, and flexibility.

Comfortable and Removable

Clear aligners are made from a smooth and comfortable plastic material, minimizing the irritation often associated with traditional braces. Additionally, they are removable, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods without restrictions and simplifying oral hygiene practices.

Predictable Results with Advanced Technology

Clear aligner technology has advanced significantly, allowing for precise treatment planning and predictable results. Park Hills Family Dentistry utilizes cutting-edge technology to create a 3D model of your teeth, enabling us to map out the entire treatment process and showcase the expected outcome.

Maintaining Oral Health

Clear aligners not only straighten your teeth but also promote better oral health. Their removable nature makes it easier to brush and floss, reducing the risk of plaque buildup and improving overall gum health during treatment.

Clear aligners may be perfect for you

Achieving a confident smile is within reach with the help of clear aligners, and our team at Park Hills Family Dentistry is here to guide you on your journey. If you desire a discreet and comfortable solution, clear aligners may be the perfect fit for you. Schedule a consultation with Park Hills Family Dentistry to explore the transformative possibilities of clear aligners and embark on the path to a straighter, more confident smile.

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions 

Cosmetic Dentistry Solutions for Enhancing Your Smile

Your smile is a powerful tool that can light up a room and leave a lasting impression. If you find yourself wanting to enhance the aesthetics of your smile, the world of cosmetic dentistry offers a myriad of solutions. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we believe in the transformative power of cosmetic dentistry to not only enhance your look but boost your confidence. In this blog post, we’ll explore the cosmetic dentistry solutions offered by our skilled team at Park Hills Family Dentistry and how we can help you achieve the smile of your dreams.

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is a cost-effective and conservative option for improving the appearance of chipped or discolored teeth. Our skilled team at Park Hills Family Dentistry uses a tooth-colored resin to bond and reshape the teeth, achieving a more harmonious and aesthetically pleasing smile.

Invisalign® Clear Aligners

Straightening your teeth doesn’t have to involve traditional braces. Invisalign clear aligners, offered at Park Hills Family Dentistry, provide a discreet and comfortable way to achieve a straighter smile. This modern orthodontic solution gradually shifts your teeth into alignment without the need for metal brackets and wires.

Customized Treatment Plans

Your smile makeover journey begins with a thorough consultation at Park Hills Family Dentistry. Our experienced team takes the time to understand your goals, preferences, and concerns, creating a customized treatment plan that aligns with your vision for a more beautiful smile.

Achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of!

Park Hills Family Dentistry is dedicated to helping you achieve the smile you’ve always dreamed of. Through our range of cosmetic dentistry solutions, we can address various concerns and enhance the overall aesthetics of your smile. Schedule a consultation with Park Hills Family Dentistry today and embark on a journey to a more confident, radiant, and captivating smile.

How To Handle a Dental Emergency

How To Handle a Dental Emergency

How To Handle a Dental Emergency 

Tips on How To Handle a Dental Emergency

When you are in need of a dentist for an urgent or possibly painful dental emergency, it is important to act quickly and calmly. Fortunately, finding the right Lexington dentist to accommodate your dental needs does not have to be stressful. With some research and knowledge of what local dentists have to offer, you can feel secure knowing that you will be receiving high-quality care from dedicated professionals with experience caring for even the most complicated dental emergencies. Read on for tips and resources on how to handle a dental emergency! 

Understand the Symptoms of a Dental Emergency and When to Seek Help

Maintaining good oral health is important, but unfortunately, dental emergencies can still happen when we least expect them. It’s important to understand the symptoms of a dental emergency and know when to seek help. Whether it’s a knocked-out tooth, a root canal, or a tooth extraction, it’s best not to wait too long before seeking assistance. Ignoring the problem may lead to more serious issues, such as infection or further damage to your teeth and gums. The good news is that many dental emergencies can be treated successfully if you seek help promptly. Don’t hesitate to contact your dentist or seek emergency dental care if your symptoms are causing you pain or discomfort. Remember, a healthy smile is worth the effort, so take care of your teeth and seek prompt attention when necessary.

Have an Emergency Plan Ready for Quick Action

You never know when a dental emergency might strike. That’s why it’s important to have a plan in place so you can act quickly if the need arises. Having a well-thought-out emergency plan can not only save you valuable time, but it can also bring peace of mind in a stressful situation. Make sure to gather the right information, such as your dentist’s phone number and address, and have it readily available. Additionally, consider packing a small emergency dental kit with items such as gauze, pain relievers, and oral numbing gel. By taking these simple steps, you can be prepared for anything that comes your way.

Make Sure You Have the Necessary Information Handy

Having the necessary information handy can be a lifesaver, especially when it comes to unexpected situations like a dental emergency. Knowing the name and number of your dentist or the nearest emergency dental clinic are just a couple of crucial pieces of information that can make all the difference in a time of crisis. But it’s not just about emergency situations, having your dental history and insurance information handy can save you time and stress in the long run. By taking a proactive approach and ensuring you have the necessary information at your fingertips, you can feel confident and prepared in any dental situation that may arise.

Take Actions to Reduce Swelling and Pain

Nobody likes experiencing a dental emergency, but it happens. When you’re dealing with swelling and pain, taking action is the best way to get back to feeling like yourself. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce both the swelling and the pain. Try holding a cold compress on the affected area for 10-20 minutes at a time. Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help with the pain. Staying hydrated and avoiding solid foods can reduce swelling if it’s caused by an infection or tooth abscess. Don’t let swelling and pain keep you down – take action and get back to smiling!

Visit Your Dentist or Emergency Room Right Away

When it comes to dental emergencies, the best thing you can do is act quickly. If you experience severe pain, bleeding, or swelling in your mouth, visit your dentist or emergency room right away. But don’t let the fear of a dental emergency keep you from going to the dentist regularly. Maintaining good oral health through routine check-ups and cleanings can help prevent emergencies from happening in the first place. Plus, there’s something to be said for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your teeth and gums are in tip-top shape. So, don’t put off that dental appointment any longer and take care of your teeth today!

Follow Your Dentist’s Instructions After Treatment

After experiencing a dental emergency, it’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed by the aftermath. However, it’s incredibly important to follow your dentist’s instructions after treatment to ensure a healthy and quick recovery. Your dentist is the expert and knows the best steps to take in order to promote proper healing and prevent any potential complications. By following their guidance on things like taking medication, avoiding certain foods, and practicing good oral hygiene, you’ll be back to feeling like yourself in no time. Remember, your dental health is crucial to your overall well-being, so don’t hesitate to reach out to your dentist with any questions or concerns. Trust us, the payoff of following their instructions will be well worth it.

Contact Us Today

From understanding and recognizing the signs of a dental emergency to having an emergency plan ready and taking steps to reduce swelling and pain, you can be prepared when it comes to dealing with dental emergencies. It’s important to remember though that when facing a dental emergency you must visit your dentist or the nearest emergency room as soon as possible. Once the crisis is averted, make sure you follow their instructions regarding aftercare so that your mouth can heal itself naturally over time. With proper knowledge at hand and ready action plans, most dental emergencies can be successfully solved. If you’re looking for a preventative way of keeping your mouth healthy and free from emergencies such as cavities or other conditions, contact us today at Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment at our office. We would love to help keep your teeth and gums healthy!

The Benefits of Dental Implants

The Benefits of Dental Implants for a Healthy Smile

The Benefits of Dental Implants  

The Benefits of Dental Implants for a Healthy Smile

Do you ever feel self-conscious when you smile? Are missing or damaged teeth holding you back from enjoying life? If so, dental implants might be the perfect solution for restoring your smile and improving your oral health. Dental implants can provide a secure fit and natural look that will have you grinning with confidence. With today’s advancements in technology, it’s easier than ever to replace lost or decaying teeth with strong artificial ones. Read on to learn why Lexington residents should consider dental implants as part of their routine oral care regimen!

Overview of dental implants and what they can do for you

If you’re missing teeth or have issues with your dentures slipping, you may have heard about dental implants. And let us tell you, they’re truly transformative! Essentially, dental implants serve as replacements for the roots of your teeth, providing a stable base for everything from crowns and bridges to dentures. This means that not only can you enjoy the benefits of a full and healthy-looking smile, but you can also eat and speak confidently without worrying about your teeth slipping or shifting. With dental implants, you’ll be amazed at how much easier it is to care for your teeth, and how natural and lifelike they look and feel. So if you’re looking for a long-term solution to missing teeth, dental implants may be just what you need.

How dental implants can benefit your health

Are you hesitant about getting dental implants? It’s understandable to have some concerns, but the benefits are worth considering. Outside of the obvious restorative improvements, dental implants can actually benefit your overall health in a number of ways. Missing teeth can cause bone loss, making facial muscles weaker and altering your appearance. Dental implants not only combat this, but can also improve your ability to speak and eat properly. Furthermore, implants can potentially prevent future oral health issues by supporting neighboring teeth and creating a more stable bite. So, why not take the first step towards a healthier you by exploring your options for dental implants?

Variety of dental implant options available

If you’re looking for a long-lasting and effective solution for missing teeth, dental implants might just be your best bet. The beauty of dental implants is that they offer a wide range of options, tailored to fit each individual patient’s needs. From traditional implants to mini implants, there are many choices to consider. Traditional implants are fantastic at replacing individual teeth, while mini implants work great for those with limited jawbone or smaller teeth. No matter your needs or preferences, the various dental implant options available make it easy to find the perfect solution for a happy and healthy smile.

Benefits of having a permanent solution for missing teeth

Having missing teeth can be a source of embarrassment and frustration for many people. Luckily, there are permanent solutions available that bring many benefits. One of the most significant advantages of permanent tooth replacement is improved confidence. When you have a full set of teeth, you feel better about your smile, and it shows in your interactions with others. In addition to this, permanent solutions such as dental implants or bridges allow you to eat all the foods you love without worrying about discomfort or sensitivity. You’ll enjoy better oral health as well because missing teeth can cause your remaining teeth to shift, leading to gum disease and decay. Overall, investing in a permanent solution for missing teeth is a smart decision that will improve your quality of life in countless ways.

The importance of considering all options before committing to treatment

When it comes to seeking treatment, it’s important to remember that there are always options available. Taking the time to consider all of your options before making a commitment can help ensure that you find the treatment that is best suited to your needs. Whether you’re dealing with a physical health issue, mental health concern, or addiction, there are a range of treatments available that can help. By doing your research and discussing your options with your healthcare provider or counselor, you can gain a better understanding of what each treatment entails and which one might be the best fit for you. Remember, seeking treatment is a brave and positive step towards improving your well-being, and by taking the time to explore all of your options, you are setting yourself up for success.

Contact Us Today

All in all, dental implants offer a permanent solution for missing teeth. With today’s technology and variety of options available, you can experience the full benefits of having a natural smile and improved quality of life. Whether you need one implant or multiple, with proper care and maintenance, they should last for a very long time. It is important to consider all possible options before committing to an oral procedure like dental implants. You should consult with your dentist to discuss any concerns and weigh the potential risks involved with this major decision-making process. Our team is here to help throughout every step – from initial evaluation to post-op care instructions. We strive to provide the most reliable service at an affordable cost so that you can maintain your oral health without compromising on quality treatment. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find out more about dental implants!

Full-Service Lexington KY Dentist

Full Service Lexington KY Dentist

Full-Service Lexington KY Dentist 

Why choose a full-service dentist

When it comes to finding a dentist in Lexington, KY, you want the best quality service and care available. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we offer comprehensive dental services designed to meet all of your needs from general dentistry to cosmetic and preventive treatments. As full-service family dentists dedicated to every member of your family’s oral health needs, we provide advanced and reliable dental solutions for all ages – infants through adults. Whether you’re looking for regular checkups or more specialized treatments like root canals or crowns, our experienced team is here to help!

Introducing Lexington’s Full-Service Dentist Office – Conveniently Located and Highly Experienced

Dr. Jinyoung Kim, Dr. Shelby Oberst, Dr. Allison Travis, and their team at Lexington’s full-service dentist office offer an unparalleled experience for dental care to the people of the area. Their office is conveniently located in a centralized area, offering easy access to those living within the city. Dr. Jinyoung Kim has years of experience providing top-notch dental services, including fillings, crowns, implants, dentures, and cosmetic dentistry. The team follows strict protocols to ensure patient comfort throughout each procedure. They strive to provide relief from common oral issues while making sure patient health is never compromised. With attentive customer service representatives and state-of-the-art resources available on-site, there is no better option when it comes to high-quality dental care than Park Hills Family Dentistry for residents of the Lexington KY area.

Get to Know Our Team of Professionals – Their Experience, Education and Certifications

Our team of professionals is uniquely qualified to bring you the best results. Members of our team have decades of experience in their respective areas and draw on their expertise to bring value to our clients. Our team members are also highly educated, having attended some of the finest educational institutions around the world, and have a variety of certifications in their fields of specialty. In addition, we employ best practices such as continuous training and ongoing professional development so that our members are armed with the most up-to-date knowledge and skillsets possible. With this combination of experience, education and certifications, you can rest assured that your project is being handled by top professionals who are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do.

Comprehensive Services We Provide to Help You Achieve Your Best Smile

At our dental practice, we take great pride in the comprehensive services that we provide to our patients. We strive to give everyone the opportunity to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. Our experienced team offers a full range of services including dental exams and cleanings, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, periodontal care, and more. There’s no need to go elsewhere for your dental needs; you will receive top-quality care right here at our office. We are committed to providing each patient with excellent service combined with cutting-edge technology to ensure they maintain optimal oral health. Your unique needs will be addressed with individualized treatment plans so you can feel comfortable knowing your smile is in the best of hands!

Benefits of our Cutting-Edge Technology and Advanced Procedures

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, our goal is to provide the highest level of service using cutting-edge technology and advanced procedures. As a result, patients can expect to receive top-quality care tailored to their individual needs. Our customized treatments are aimed at providing long-term relief from medical concerns while reducing unnecessary costs. By combining the latest scientific techniques with established methods, our leading-edge approach helps enhance patient results including reduced pain levels and improved health outcomes. We employ evidence-based practices which are continuously adapted as new technologies develop in order to ensure that our patients remain at the forefront of the medical industry.

Maintaining Oral Health with Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings

Good oral health is an essential part of leading a healthy lifestyle. The best way to ensure you have good oral health habits is by visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings. During these appointments, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, looking for signs of decay or other issues. Deep cleanings and professional fluoride treatments can help prevent cavities, reducing the risk of major issues down the line. Additionally, if any issue like a cavity is found early enough it may be treated with less invasive methods before it becomes severe. Visiting your dentist regularly is the key to maintaining a healthy smile and optimal oral care.

Contact Us Today

Our Lexington full-service dentist office provides comprehensive services that help you achieve your best smile. Our team of professionals is highly experienced and fully certified, offering advanced procedures and cutting-edge technology that help patients maintain both short and long-term oral health. Every one of our patients is unique and important to us, and we strive to provide attentive care for every patient’s individual needs. During your first appointment, you will be honored with the highest quality of care offered in the industry today from start to finish. We look forward to introducing you to our knowledgeable staff and helping you reach your oral health goals. So don’t wait — contact us today to schedule an appointment; let us show you how we are committed to helping you maintain a beautiful healthy smile.

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist 

Questions to Ask Your Lexington KY Dentist

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Vitamin deficits in diabetes
  • Osteoporosis

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

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

3. What are the symptoms of gum disease?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Will you perform an oral cancer screening?

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

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

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

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

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

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. 

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.

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.