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Dental Fear Management Tips

Do you live in Lexington, KY and are looking for a dentist who can help you conquer your dental fears? Our team at Park Hills Family Dentistry understands what it’s like to experience anxiety while thinking about seeing the dentist–we want to do whatever we can to make sure our patients feel comfortable during their visit. To that end, here are some useful dental fear management tips to effectively manage dental fear.

Understand the Causes of Dental Fear – Talk to your dentist about any past experiences that may be causing you anxiety

Many individuals experience dental anxiety that prevents them from seeking the dental care that is necessary for good oral health. To better understand the causes of your dental fear, it can be helpful to speak with your dentist as they’ll be able to assist you in overcoming any trepidations or bad memories that may be causing your worries. Although this conversation may be difficult and uncomfortable, it will allow your dentist to gain insight into why visitings their office might make you anxious and provide you with resources and tools to help during future appointments. Your dentist will work with you, so don’t hesitate to communicate honestly about your experiences – you have nothing to fear!

Acknowledge Your Feelings – Identify and acknowledge your fears in order to better manage them

Acknowledging your feelings can be extremely beneficial in helping to better understand and manage them. Facing your fears head-on will often allow you to make appropriate decisions about how to handle the source of these fears. Additionally, allowing yourself to recognize and accept how you are feeling can help to normalize and shift away from persistent negative mindsets. While some circumstances may feel impossible, giving yourself permission to honestly address your anxieties is the initial step towards understanding and solving them.

Create Positive Affirmations – Positive affirmations can help you stay calm during dental visits

Creating positive affirmations is a great way to help you stay calm during dental visits. By repeating positive words and phrases, you can increase your levels of self-confidence and assurance heading into the dentist’s office. It’s important to keep your affirmations short and simple for easy recall. Additionally, be sure to frame them in the present tense—for example, “I am at ease and relaxed during my dental visit”—which will help you manifest their effects within yourself. With thoughtful preparation of positive affirmations ahead of time, you can enter your dental visit with a newfound inner strength that will make it easier to relax until the procedure is finished.

Consider Pain Management Strategies – Learn about available pain management strategies, such as sedation dentistry or nitrous oxide

Pain management strategies are a crucial part of modern dentistry, so it’s important to be aware of what options are available to you. Sedation dentistry is one such option that allows the patient to remain relaxed and comfortable during a procedure. Another popular method is nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, which produces a calming effect and can reduce fear or anxiety that may be associated with dental procedures. These options aid in providing a stress-free dental experience for many patients. Be sure to research any pain management strategy before your appointment so you can feel at ease and make an informed decision about what best suits your needs.

Ask Questions and Communicate Your Concerns – Before and during your appointment, don’t be afraid to ask questions or express any concerns you have

When visiting a healthcare provider, it is important to be clear and precise with the questions you ask and concerns you express. Not only does this ensure that your appointment runs smoothly, but it also helps you get the most out of your encounter. Step one is being prepared for the visit – create a list of questions and convey any worries ahead of time. During the meeting, if something is not understood or further clarification is needed, do not be afraid to speak up. Communication between patient and healthcare provider are essential to driving positive health care outcomes. Ensuring effective two-way discussion can help create an environment in which all of your medical needs can be met efficiently.

Practice Relaxation Techniques – Try deep breathing exercises, positive visualization, and even listening to music while receiving treatment

Practicing relaxation techniques can lead to improved outcomes while undergoing treatment. Examples of such strategies may include taking the time to use deep breathing exercises, engaging in positive visualization and reframing any negative situations that present themselves, as well as listening to calming music during recovery. Research has demonstrated that these kinds of practices can reduce stress levels significantly. Therefore, utilizing relaxation techniques not only benefits you during treatment but can also be used beyond treatment in daily life.

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Overcoming dental fear is a process, and one that requires patience and perseverance. While it may feel daunting at first, understanding the causes of your anxiety and implementing the above-mentioned strategies can help you to gain control of your fear on your journey towards achieving oral health. Taking charge of your oral health not only means you’ll have healthy teeth and gums for life, but also that visiting the dentist won’t have to be as scary as you think. Taking away the fear can potentially free up time for more enjoyable activities during appointments, such as catching up with friends or simply listening to music. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team who’s here to help you feel comfortable. Remember with determination and self-empowerment, conquering dental fear is within reach.

Dental Care As You Age

Dental Care as you age

As you age, your dental care needs will evolve. It is important to establish a relationship with a trusted dentist in Lexington, KY who can meet all of your changing needs. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we strive to be that type of dentist for all of our patients by offering comprehensive services and preventive care tailored to each person’s individual oral health objectives. With years of experience helping people maintain healthy teeth and gums even as they age, you can trust us to have the knowledge and resources necessary for optimal results.

The importance of regular dental check-ups as you get older

As we get older, it’s important to be proactive about our dental health. Regular dental checkups are essential for ensuring that any potential issues are discovered and addressed quickly. Professional cleaning sessions every six months help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, as well as identify signs of trouble such as cavities, periodontal disease, gum disease, and tooth decay. It is also beneficial for seniors to speak with their dentists about fluoride treatments which can reduce the risk of cavities and may even help repair the early stages of tooth decay. Overall, regular dental checkups are an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene throughout life and should not be overlooked as we age.

How to keep your teeth healthy and strong

Taking care of your teeth is an important way to maintain good overall health. To keep your teeth healthy and strong, it is recommended to brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss your teeth at least once a day, reduce sugary foods and drinks and visit your dentist regularly for preventive care. Brushing will remove food particles and plaque while flossing will help clean in between each tooth. Limiting sweet treats helps reduce the chances of cavities forming because excess sugar can promote decay. Routine checkups with your dentist will help ensure early detection of any dental problems so that they can be treated promptly. Proper oral hygiene is key to maintaining strong and healthy teeth for lasting oral health and well being.

Common dental conditions associated with aging

As we age, it’s important to be mindful of the common dental conditions that can afflict seniors. Tooth wear and decay, gum recession, and oral cancers are some of the issues that adults over 65 years old may be more susceptible to due to weakened immune systems and other factors. Additionally, some medications that are commonly prescribed for elderly patients can lead to dry mouth and increase the risk of cavities and oral infections. For these reasons, brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day are recommendations for improving oral health as we age. Seeing your dentist regularly is very important too; they will be able to identify potential risks early, along with detecting many oral diseases at an early stage that could become serious if left untreated.

The benefits of professional oral hygiene products

Professional oral hygiene products go a long way in promoting healthy teeth and gums. These products are designed to help remove plaque and food particles, promote saliva production and reduce bacteria buildup. In particular, professional fluoride mouth rinses not only help prevent the formation of cavities, but also help reduce pain if cavities have already formed. Professional whitening treatments can also provide dramatic whitening results far exceeding those available with at-home whitening kits. Finally, professional in-office cleanings can rid your mouth of even the toughest stains, helping you restore your natural smile for years to come. Investing in professional oral hygiene products is a worthwhile investment that pays off with good overall oral health.

Tips for preventive dentistry care as you age

As you age, it is more important than ever to keep up with your preventive dental care in order to maintain healthy gums and teeth. This includes scheduling regular checkups with your dentist and maintaining proper hygiene at home. Brush twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and make sure to floss at least one time each day. It is also important to minimize sugary or acidic foods which can lead to erosion of tooth enamel or bacterial growth in the mouth. Additionally, quitting smoking can greatly improve overall oral health due to an increase of oxygen intake, as well as decreasing both plaque build-up and gum disease. Staying on top of preventive dentistry care and implementing these tips can help you maintain a healthy smile for many years.

How to manage cost-effective care for dental health

Taking good care of your dental health doesn’t have to be an expensive affair. There are numerous cost-effective strategies to make sure your teeth remain healthy and strong. Regular check-ups at the dentist, brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and limiting sugary foods and drinks will help maintain a healthy mouth. Additionally, patients should consider talking to their dentists about discount plans for their long-term dental needs. Resources like online coupons may also be helpful, as well as negotiating payment plans with a provider or using regular deductibles through insurance programs. Following these tips and investing just a little effort into researching available resources could make all the difference in maintaining good oral health without breaking the bank.

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Overall, dentists recommend regular visits at least every 6 months to ensure optimal dental health in our golden years. Taking the time to properly care for our teeth, gums and mouth as we age can go a long way towards maintaining a strong set of teeth for years to come. While there are some unavoidable conditions associated with aging and our dental health, the use of professional oral hygiene products combined with preventive dentistry practices can help us to manage these issues in a cost-effective way. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team who’s happy to help. With the aid of an experienced dentist and good oral hygiene habits, taking the necessary steps now can help ensure we have healthy smiles well into our senior years.

The Difference Between TMD and TMJ

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder is a common condition that affects a significant population. It is characterized by pain and stiffness in the jaw joint, clicking or popping sounds, and limited jaw movement. However, many people mistakenly use TMJ to refer to the disorder, when in fact, TMJ stands for the jaw joint itself. The correct name for the condition is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). In this blog post, we will explore the difference between TMD and TMJ, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

What is TMD?

TMD is a disorder that affects the temporomandibular joint, which connects your skull to your jaw. This joint is essential for any movement of the jaw, such as when you chew, speak, or yawn. TMD can cause pain and discomfort when this joint is not functioning correctly. Some common symptoms of TMD include ear pain, headaches, jaw pain, and clicking sounds in the jaw.

What is TMJ?

The TMJ is the hinge that connects your jaw to your skull. It is responsible for allowing your mouth to open and close, and it is located just in front of your ear. The TMJ is a complex joint that consists of muscles, ligaments, and bones. It works in tandem with the surrounding structures to allow for movement, but when it is damaged or not functioning correctly, it can lead to TMD.

What Causes TMD?

The causes of TMD are not entirely understood, but several factors can contribute to the development of this condition, such as injury to the jaw or joint, arthritis, stress, teeth grinding, or malocclusion.

What Causes TMJ?

The TMJ can become damaged due to several factors, including injury, wear and tear due to aging, or a misaligned bite. Clenching or grinding your teeth, called bruxism, can also cause damage to the TMJ.

Treatment Options for TMD and TMJ

There are several treatment options available for TMJ and TMD. Treatment options for TMD vary, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. These can include self-care measures, such as avoiding hard or chewy foods, applying warm or cold compresses, or practicing relaxation techniques. For severe cases, dental treatments such as bite guards, dental crowns, or orthodontic treatment may be recommended. TMJ treatment options include self-care measures such as avoiding hard or chewy foods and using hot or cold compresses. Sometimes, medication such as muscle relaxants may be prescribed. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.

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In summary, TMJ disorder and TMD are not the same things. TMJ refers to the jaw joint itself, while TMD is a disorder that affects the TMJ. They have similar symptoms, but their treatments are different, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. It is essential to seek professional dental advice if you experience any TMJ or TMD symptoms to have a proper diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment. If you’re experiencing TMD or TMJ, come see us at Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY. We’re more than happy to help you find a solution that works for you!

Natural Looking Smile Upgrades

Natural Looking Smile Upgrades: Options to Consider

Everybody wants to have a confident, dazzling smile. But not everyone is blessed with a perfect set of teeth. Fortunately, there are various options to upgrade and restore the beauty of your smile. While some methods may be invasive, others can deliver natural-looking results without sacrificing the integrity of your natural teeth. In this post, we will look at some of the best options to achieve a natural-looking smile upgrade.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening in Lexington KY is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your smile’s appearance. It is also one of the least invasive procedures. Most dental practices offer in-office and take-home teeth whitening options. In-office treatments typically involve applying a gel containing hydrogen peroxide to the teeth and activating it with a special light. Take-home whitening kits provide a lower concentration of the whitening agent and are applied using custom-fitted trays. Both options can deliver remarkable results, brightening your smile by several shades.

Porcelain Veneers

Porcelain veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that are bonded to the front surface of the teeth. They alter the appearance of teeth by changing their shape, size, and color. Veneers can conceal a variety of cosmetic flaws such as chips, cracks, gaps, and discoloration. They are custom-made to match the surrounding teeth perfectly, yielding a natural-looking result. Because veneers require a small amount of tooth enamel to be removed, they are irreversible. They can, however, last for years with proper care.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that serve as anchors for replacement teeth. They consist of three parts: the implant, abutment, and crown. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and left to heal for a few months. The abutment, which is attached to the implant, connects the implant to the crown, which is customized to match the color and shape of the natural teeth. Lexington KY dental implants are a long-term solution to missing teeth that look and feel like natural teeth. They also help to maintain bone density and facial structure.

Invisalign

Invisalign is a clear aligner system that straightens teeth without the use of traditional braces. It consists of a series of customized plastic trays that are worn for a few weeks at a time. The trays are virtually invisible, making them a discreet option for adults and teenagers. Invisalign aligners are removable, so patients can eat and brush their teeth as they normally would. This makes it easier to maintain oral hygiene during treatment. Invisalign aligners can correct a range of mild to moderate orthodontic issues, such as crooked teeth, gaps, and overbites.

Gum Contouring

Sometimes, the appearance of teeth can be affected by the shape and size of the gums. Gum contouring is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that reshapes the gum line to improve the appearance of the teeth. It can make the teeth appear longer or more symmetrical, or reduce the amount of gum tissue that shows when you smile. Gum contouring can be done using a laser or traditional surgical techniques. Recovery time is relatively short, and the results can be dramatic.

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If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, there are numerous natural-looking smile upgrade options available to you. Before deciding on a treatment, consult with your dentist to determine which procedure is right for you. They can help you consider factors such as cost, recovery time, and the extent of the procedure. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, KY, our experienced team of dental professionals will create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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How Dental Implants Work

How Dental Implants Work

Dental Implants: How They Work and What to Expect

Dental implants in Lexington KY are a popular tooth replacement option for patients missing one or more teeth. But how do they work? In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how dental implants are placed and what you can expect during the implantation process.

How It Begins

The implantation process begins with a consultation with your dentist near you to see if you are a good candidate for dental implants. Once it is determined that you are a good candidate, the next step is to have the implant placed. The implant is a small titanium screw that is placed into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. This screw will act as the new root for the artificial tooth.

Next Step

After the implant has been placed, it will need to heal for several months before the artificial tooth can be attached. During this healing period, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene and to avoid chewing on hard foods in the area of the implant. Once the implant has healed, an abutment will be placed on top of it. The abutment is a small connector piece that will hold the artificial tooth in place.

Final Step

Finally, the artificial tooth, or crown, will be placed on top of the abutment. The crown will be made to match your natural teeth in color and shape. Once in place, you’ll be able to brush and floss your dental implants just like your natural teeth!

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Dental implants are a great tooth replacement option for patients missing one or more teeth. The implantation process is fairly straightforward and, once complete, you’ll be able to care for your Lexington KY dental implants just like you would your natural teeth! If you think dental implants might be right for you, be sure to schedule a consultation with your dentist today.

Mouth and Body Connection

The Mouth and Body Connection

Most people don’t realize the mouth and body are connected. What happens in your mouth affects your overall health, and vice versa. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your teeth and gums! Here are a few ways poor oral health can lead to problems in other parts of the body:

Heart Complications

Inflammation and infection in the mouth can lead to buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can increase the risk of heart complications.

Diabetes

People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease because they have a harder time fighting off infection. Gum disease can also make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels.

Pregnancy Complications

Gum disease has been linked to premature birth and low birth weight. Expecting mothers should be sure to take extra care of their teeth and gums!

Osteoporosis

Gum disease can cause bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to osteoporosis.

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As you can see, taking care of your teeth and gums is important for more than just a pretty smile! Poor oral health has been linked to a variety of serious health problems. Be sure to see your dentist near you regularly for checkups and cleanings, brush twice a day, floss daily, eat a healthy diet, and don’t use tobacco products. By taking good care of your mouth, you’ll be doing your whole body a favor!

Snoring Prevention Through Dentistry

Snore Prevention Through Dentistry

Snoring Prevention Through Dentistry in Lexington KY

Snoring can disrupt sleep and cause a variety of health issues, such as fatigue, irritability, and cardiovascular problems. Luckily, snoring prevention is possible through dentistry. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we offer custom-fitted mouthpieces that prevent snoring and improve your quality of life.

How Do Mouthpieces Prevent Snoring?

Mouthpieces are designed to keep the tongue from falling back into the throat while you sleep. This prevents the airway from becoming blocked or narrowed, which is one of the main causes of snoring. The mouthpiece also keeps the soft tissues in place so that they cannot vibrate, which is another common cause of snoring.

The Benefits of Using a Mouthpiece for Snoring

Using a mouthpiece for snoring has several benefits. It can help you get more restful sleep as well as improve your overall health and well-being by reducing fatigue and irritability caused by lack of sleep. Additionally, it can reduce your risk of cardiovascular problems by improving your oxygen intake while sleeping. Finally, using a mouthpiece can help you breathe easier throughout the day due to improved airflow while sleeping at night.

Choosing the Right Mouthpiece for You

When choosing a mouthpiece for snoring prevention, it’s important to find one that fits properly and comfortably in your mouth. At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we offer custom-fitted mouthpieces that are made specifically for each individual patient’s needs so that they fit perfectly into their mouths. We take impressions of patient’s teeth and create a model from them to ensure proper fitment and maximum comfort when wearing the appliance during sleep.

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At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we understand how disruptive snoring can be to everyday life and how difficult it can be to find an effective solution for it. That’s why we provide custom-fitted mouthpieces designed specifically for each individual patient’s needs so that they can get relief from their snoring quickly and effectively without sacrificing comfort or ease of use. If you’re looking for an effective solution to your snoring problem, contact us today! We look forward to helping you get a better night’s sleep with our snore-prevention services!

The Benefits of Clear Aligners

The Benefits of Clear Aligners in Lexington KY

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we offer many advanced treatments to help you achieve a beautiful and healthy smile. One treatment option that is growing in popularity is clear aligners. Clear aligners are a great way to straighten your teeth without the hassle of traditional braces. Let’s take a look at the benefits of clear aligners in Lexington KY.

Comfort and Convenience

Clear aligners are designed to be comfortable and convenient. Unlike traditional metal braces, they don’t require any uncomfortable wires or brackets. Instead, they use a series of custom-made trays made from medical-grade plastic that fit snugly over your teeth. They don’t interfere with your normal day-to-day activities like eating and speaking, so you won’t need to worry about food getting stuck or speech impediments as with traditional braces.

Discreet Orthodontic Treatment

Another benefit of clear aligners is their discretion when compared to traditional braces. Traditional metal braces can be very noticeable when you smile and can be embarrassing for some people, especially adults who may feel self-conscious about wearing them. On the other hand, clear aligners are almost invisible when worn, so no one will even know that you’re undergoing orthodontic treatment!

Faster Results

Finally, if you’re looking for faster results than what traditional braces can provide, then clear aligners could be the perfect solution for you! Clear aligners are designed to move your teeth into place much more quickly than traditional braces, which means you’ll get results faster—in as little as six months! This makes them an ideal choice for those who want to see quicker results without sacrificing quality or comfort.

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Whether you’re an adult looking for a discreet way to straighten your teeth or someone who wants fast results without compromising on comfort or convenience, clear aligners might just be the perfect solution for you! At Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, we offer clear aligner treatments tailored specifically to suit your needs and lifestyle so that you can achieve the beautiful smile that you deserve! Contact us today to learn more about how our clear aligner services can help improve your oral health and enhance your confidence!

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How To Choose A New Dentist

How to Choose the Right Dentist for Your Needs

Choosing the right dentist in Lexington KY is an important decision that can have a big impact on your oral health. A good dentist will provide you with quality care and make sure you’re comfortable throughout each visit. With the right dentist, you can maintain and improve your oral health—so how do you go about finding one? Here are a few tips to help you find the right dentist for your needs.

Do Your Research

When searching for a new Lexington KY dentist, it’s important to do your research. Start by asking friends and family members for recommendations. You can also use online directories like Yelp or Google Maps to read reviews of local dentists in your area. It’s also a good idea to check out each potential dentist’s website to learn more about their services, staff, and office hours. This will give you a better idea of whether they are the right fit for your needs.

Check Their Credentials

It’s important to make sure the dentist you choose is licensed and qualified in their field. Check if they are board-certified by looking up their name in the American Dental Association’s directory or searching for them on their state’s dental board website. Also, look up any awards or accolades they have won; this is a great way to get an idea of how much experience they have in their field.

Schedule A Consultation

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, contact each potential dentist and ask if they offer free consultations or new patient exams. During this appointment, take note of how clean the office is and how friendly the staff is when interacting with both yourself and other patients in the office. Also, ask questions about their services and make sure that any concerns or questions about insurance coverage are addressed during this appointment as well. This will give you a better idea if this particular office is right for you!

Contact Us Today To Schedule An Appointment!

Choosing the right dentist near you can be daunting but it doesn’t have to be! By doing some research, checking credentials, and scheduling consultations with potential dentists like us at Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington KY, you should be able to find someone who fits all of your dental needs perfectly! Remember: don’t be afraid to ask questions during consultations – it’s always better to know what kind of service provider you’re getting prior to setting up an appointment! Contact us today if you have any questions.

How Oral Health Impacts Overall Health

The Connection Between Oral Health and Overall Health

Many people don’t realize that there is a strong connection between oral health and overall health. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we know that the two are closely linked, which is why we strive to educate our patients on how their oral health affects the rest of their body. Let’s take a closer look at this important connection.

The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health

When it comes to oral health, many people think only of the teeth and gums. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Poor oral hygiene can have far-reaching consequences on one’s overall health. For example, research has shown that gum disease may be linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke due to inflammation in the body. Additionally, poor dental hygiene has been linked to other serious conditions such as diabetes and respiratory diseases.

These potential complications are why it is so important for patients at Park Hills Family Dentistry to maintain good oral hygiene habits on a regular basis. Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once will help reduce plaque buildup and prevent cavities from forming. Regular visits to our office will also help keep your mouth healthy—we can detect any potential problems early before they become more serious issues down the road.

The Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene

Good oral hygiene isn’t just about avoiding serious medical complications; there are also some immediate benefits as well. Patients who practice proper dental care can enjoy improved breath, better-tasting food, whiter teeth, fewer trips to the dentist near you, and less money spent on dental treatments over time. It may seem like a lot of work now but in the long run, it pays off for both your mouth and your wallet!

Contact Us Today!

Taking good care of your teeth is an essential part of maintaining overall health—and Park Hills Family Dentistry is here to help you do just that! We understand how important it is for our patients in Lexington KY to have a healthy mouth so they can enjoy optimal physical well-being throughout their lives. With regular checkups combined with good brushing and flossing habits, you can ensure that your teeth stay healthy while avoiding costly treatments down the road! Contact us today to get started!