What to Know About Dental Implants

what to know about dental implants

What to Know About Dental Implants 

What You Should Know About Dental Implants

For many people, the mere prospect of going to the dentist for a routine exam and cleaning is enough to make them nervous. It can be paralyzing for people considering oral surgery, such as dental implants. If this describes you or someone you know, don’t let fear dictate you. Dental implant operations are becoming increasingly prevalent. In fact, there are millions of procedures conducted in the United States each year. The procedure is risk-free, recuperation is reasonable, and the benefits are numerous. Below, our dentist in Lexington KY shares what to know about dental implants. 

What Are Dental Implants?

One of the first things that come to mind when one hears the term “dental implants” is, without a doubt, those gleaming tiny metal posts that no one will ever see. One reason the mind quickly leaps here is that they appear so odd in comparison to the replacement teeth they’ll support. The much more plausible explanation is that this item is the implant portion of “dental implant.” That is the frightening part.

The post or base is often constructed of titanium and will permanently bond into the jawbone. The replacement tooth, which is normally composed of ceramic, similar to regular dental crowns, is then joined to the base with the use of another metal component known as a connector.

What is the Dental Implant Procedure Like? 

Several factors influence the dental implant procedure. Regrettably, not everyone is a good candidate for the treatment. One of the most essential considerations is the condition of a patient’s jawbone. The dental implants Lexington KY really bonds with the bone, guaranteeing that the replacement does not move. This has the extra benefit of preserving the patient’s bone structure. Without it, the jawbone would gradually shrink and collapse, giving the chin and mouth a sunken appearance. This is what happens when regular detachable dentures are used.

If the jawbone isn’t strong enough, bone grafting will be required, which will add another surgical stage to the procedure. Because bone deteriorates over time, the longer a tooth is missing, the more likely a bone graft may be necessary. If the tooth to be replaced is still present in the mouth and has to be removed, this must be done first. Something the implant can be placed at the same session, but sometimes a bone transplant is required and the implant is inserted later.

Dental Implant Alternatives

Whether bone grafts or extractions are required, the surgery and healing procedure might take months. The same is true whether a person requires a single tooth replacement or several. An overview of implant therapy options is shown below:

Replacement of a Single Tooth

In this case, the implanted post will serve as the new tooth’s root. To obtain access to the bone, your dentist near me will cut a portion of the gum apart. The post will then be inserted into the bone, and the patient will be discharged until the bone has healed and fused around the implant. While the surgical location will have a gap till the patient returns for the second procedure, a temporary tooth can be worn until then.

Replacing Several Teeth With Dental Implants

Your Lexington KY dentist can use a bridge to replace many teeth in a row, eliminating the requirement for each replacement tooth to have its own post placed. It is similar to a typical bridge in that it employs two crowns on either side of the missing tooth site to keep in a replacement. Assume you have three lost teeth in a row. Digital Doc, intraoral camera markers, explains that their dental clients use posts. These posts are placed for the two lost exterior teeth rather than for all three. When the patient returns for their replacement teeth to be implanted, they will be given a bridge with a third replacement tooth in the center. A post isn’t required to keep it in place because it’s neatly sandwiched between the other two teeth.

Dental Implants for All Teeth

This is the greatest choice for people who require most or all of their teeth to be replaced. Posts are strategically inserted at the top or bottom of the mouth, or both, to hold the denture in place. A person’s existing denture can be adjusted so that it can be attached to the posts.

Contact Park Hills for Dental Implants in Lexington KY

This is the dental practice for you if you are afraid of the dentist. We like relieving customers’ concerns by offering gentle and caring dentistry. We are convinced that you will feel at ease in our clinic since we treat all patients as if they are family. Contact our team today!

Dental Cleaning in Lexington KY

Dental Cleaning in Lexington KY 

Schedule Your End of Year Dental Cleaning in Lexington KY

Can you believe that we are just weeks away from 2022? We at Park Hills Family Dentistry hope you intend to make the most of the rest of the year. This should include an appointment for a tooth cleaning in Lexington KY and exam. Our dentist in Lexington KY  wants you to begin 2022 with a healthy mouth and a cause to grin.

Make it a Habit to Schedule Your Dental Cleanings

We don’t have to tell you that a lot may happen to your teeth in a year, let alone during a lifetime. We also recognize that, as a result of COVID-19, many people may not have had periodic checks when they originally scheduled an appointment.

That is just one of the reasons our Lexington KY Dentist wants to urge you to plan a year-end cleaning before the new year comes.

The other cause is more common. We want your mouth to be as healthy as possible.

Implement Preventative Maintenance at Home

You understand that preventative maintenance is the greatest way to keep your smile healthy. This begins with establishing a consistent dental care regimen at home. Brushing your teeth twice a day (for two minutes each time) and flossing once a day is recommended by the American Dental Association.

Regular dental checks should also be part of your schedule. If you have dental insurance, your coverage will most likely cover all or the majority of this type of dental appointment. We’ve also discovered that many dental insurance provide benefits for a limited period. Typically, this is a calendar year. (If you have dental insurance, consult your policy for further information.)

Maintain Your Smile

Preventive care helps more than simply keep your teeth healthy. It can also help you save money.

Our dentist office in Lexington KY can eliminate plaque and tartar from your mouth before you develop tooth decay or gum disease by performing a thorough cleaning. During your appointment, we’ll also be on the lookout for any indicators of such issues so you can address them as soon as possible.

You may not want a filling or non-surgical gum disease therapy right now, but think about the alternative. If your cavity or periodontal infection worsens, you might end up with a tooth infection or lose a tooth.

We don’t have to tell you that a root canal operation, while beneficial, is more expensive than a cleaning. Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Colorado Springs CO dentist, adds that replacing a lost tooth is also more expensive than filling a cavity.

We can also assist you if you are afraid to schedule an appointment due to dental anxiety. During their appointments, many individuals take use of our sedation dentistry. Laughing gas, often known as inhaled sedation, is a quick and easy approach to ease your worries and keep you pain-free throughout your visit with us. We also provide oral medication if you are really anxious. With this option, you should have someone else transport you to and from your appointment, but it will allow you to obtain the routine care you require.

Schedule Your Tooth Cleaning With Park Hills Family Dentistry

We can’t wait to deliver high-quality dental services to your entire family!  Make your appointment as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment, click here.

Tips From Your Lexington KY Dentist

tips from your lexington ky dentist

Tips From Your Lexington KY Dentist 

Tips for a Healthy Smile During the Holidays

Men, women, and children all across the world associate the holiday season with a plethora of delectable treats. We look forward to sinking our teeth into every delectable moment, from traditional trifles and cranberry croissants to snickerdoodle cookies. Meanwhile, those who will be chomping and chewing (a.k.a. our teeth and gums) are hiding in terror of the impending attack. Today on the blog, we share our best dental tips from your Lexington KY dentist to keep your smile sparkling all holiday season.

You may fulfill your sweet taste during the holidays while avoiding the most frequent dental issues if you are proactive and follow this basic dental advice from Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY.

Remember to Eat Teeth-Healthy Foods!

Allow yourself the indulgence of Christmas sweets and delights, but remember to include fruits and vegetables in your diet as well. Our dentist in Lexington KY shares that eating raw carrots can help prevent cavities by functioning as a natural toothbrush. Cheese, apples, celery, and leafy greens are some tooth-healthy foods that may benefit your oral health.  

Avoid Consuming Excessive Amounts of Certain Holiday Treats

While sticky, chewy, and extra-hard foods are delightful, they are the worst nightmare for your teeth and gums. Our friends over at High Desert Dental, Grand Junction CO Dentist, says their warning foods include holiday favorites like candy canes, Tootsie Rolls, and toffee. 

Because avoiding these customary once-a-year indulgences might be difficult, what you can do is strike the perfect balance. To begin, don’t overindulge in delectable but dangerous treats. Second, make it a point to follow the nine steps to maintaining healthy teeth and gums throughout the year. If your sweet tooth persists, imagine receiving a dental filling or a root canal in the New Year as a strong deterrent.

Brush & Floss Your Teeth Regularly 

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean you should skip out on your dental health regimen as well. With all of the food and wine you may be consuming this holiday season, maintaining a dental care regimen is more important than ever. Brushing after every meal and flossing every day may not be the most joyous aspect of the holidays, but it’s important. 

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water is one of those things that remains constant regardless of the season. It offers several advantages, including refreshing your breath. Additionally, it cleans away bacteria in your mouth and assists digestion after a delicious meal. Furthermore, drinking eight glasses of water every day helps counteract your “false” hunger and desires. Thus, you are avoiding the need to add “reduce the holiday weight” to your New Year’s Resolutions once more.

Chew Sugar-Free Cinnamon Gum 

Cinnamaldehyde, an essential oil found in cinnamon gum, lends a crisp, spicy taste to this chewy delicacy. This component stimulates your salivary glands. Additionally, it may be able to eradicate cavity-forming germs. Cinnamon may also keep your breath minty fresh.

Never Tear Wrapping Paper or Pop Open Beer Bottles With Your Teeth

Opening a bottle or wrapper with your teeth may be fun and convenient, but it’s horrible for your teeth. Although it’s a fun party trick, it might damage your teeth. Using your teeth to open Christmas gifts, parcels, and more can potentially cause cracking and fracture.

When you’re out and about, it’s easy to forget about your dental health. Besides, the last thing you want to do after a night of fun is clean your teeth.

Make an Appointment For Your Tooth Cleaning in Lexington KY

 The good news is… You may book your post-holiday dental cleaning and check-up right now to keep your teeth clean and cavity-free from all of 2022!

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. 

Maximize Your Dental Benefits

Maximize Dental Benefits

Maximize Your Dental Benefits 

Maximize Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire

Having dental coverage improves oral health, overall health, and well-being. Those who reported having outstanding dental health were twice as likely to report having very good or excellent physical health. Below, our Lexington KY dentist shares  how to maximize your dental benefits before end of year.

Take Advantage of Preventative Dental Care

Regular preventative treatment helps the dentist to detect and treat oral health issues early on. This allows you to avoid costly and significant dental difficulties in the future. Furthermore, most dental insurance plans offer Lexington KY tooth cleanings cleanings, examinations, and X-rays.

The Relationship Between Oral and Overall Health

As our Lexington KY dentist office wants you to know, your dental health is intertwined with your whole wellness. Gum disease has been related to a variety of health problems. This includes diabetes and heart disease, according to research. In reality, the dentist may identify more than 120 disorders during a basic dental exam. As follows, dental appointments can lead to the early discovery of significant problems. Thus, should be included in your entire wellness plan.

Dental Expenses Can Be Paid With Flexible Spending Account Dollars

If your workplace offers a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), make use of any remaining funds before the end of the year. The majority of dental costs are FSA-eligible healthcare expenses. With an FSA, you cut your taxable income and set away money for medical costs. When you utilize tax-free cash to pay for these costs, our dentist near me explains that you have higher take-home income, considerable tax savings, and more control over your family budget. Thus, our friends at Gentle Dental, Loganville dentist office, note that this allows you to prepare for future expenses such as dental work.

In January, your dental plan benefits may be reset.

With the end of the year approaching, it is critical to examine your dental benefits and understand what is covered under your plan, your remaining yearly maximum available, and when your dental benefits begin again. Dental plans are either calendar or plan year based. If you have calendar-year dental plans, they will renew on January 1, which means you will have to pay your deductible again after the beginning of the year. Your annual maximum will also reset at the start of your dental plan year, so depending on your plan, you may lose some of your previous year’s annual maximum allowance if you did not see your dentist in Lexington KY.

Make the most of your dental benefits before the end of the year by scheduling an appointment with your dentist. It will assist you in beginning 2021 with a healthier smile, improved general health, and more money in your wallet.

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving

Dental Tips for thanksgiving lexington ky

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving 

Dental Tips For Thanksgiving 2021

Thanksgiving is a popular holiday because of the variety of food options available. However, many of which are not especially nutritious. Making these wise dietary choices can help keep your gums and teeth healthy and happy this holiday season.

Today, our Lexington KY dentist shares dental tips for Thanksgiving to keep your smile beautiful!

1. Cut back on sugar.

Thanksgiving may be heaven-sent for those with a sweet appetite, with pumpkin pies and other sweet treats. Keep in mind, however, that bacteria likes sugar and causes cavities. Erythritol or xylitol are effective sugar substitutes. Our dentist in Lexington KY suggests drinking water to rinse the sugar out of your mouth after your sugary meals. The more water you drink, the better your oral health will be!

2. Stay away from starches.

Bacteria also heavily lives in carbohydrates. These common carbohydrates are converted into sugar by your body, and bacteria thrive on them. So, this holiday season, our Lexington KY dental office suggests cutting back on carbohydrates and replace them with more vegetables and protein.

3. Avoid sticky sides.

Additionally, our dentist near me suggests to avoid sticky foods as much as possible. Cranberry sauce, in particular, may be quite damaging to your teeth. That delectable pecan pie and gravy are also bad for your teeth. If you must indulge, make sure to rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.

4. Limit your intake of coffee and red wine.

It’s lovely to spend time with family while sipping a warm cup of coffee or a bottle of wine. However, try to minimize your intake of these beverages and always follow up with a glass of water. Both of these beverages are acidic and have the potential to discolor your teeth.

5. Consume More Vegetables

They are more than simply a side dish; they are also beneficial to your teeth! Our friends at High Desert Dental, Grand Junction CO dentist, explains that vegetables are high in fiber and include vitamins and minerals that help to maintain the health of your gums and teeth. Chewing on them will help increase saliva production, which is beneficial to your mouth.

Make an Appointment With Your Lexington KY Dentist

You may have pre-existing dental problems that you are unaware of, which can be aggravated by overindulging on harmful Thanksgiving dishes. Remember to schedule an appointment to have your Lexington KY tooth cleaning.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

Facts About Sedation Dentistry

Facts About Sedation Dentistry  

Facts About Sedation Dentistry in Lexington KY

Some individuals are so afraid of going to their Lexington KY dentist that they refuse to seek treatment for their tooth problems. Needless to say, ignoring the dentist may be detrimental to one’s dental health. As follows, patients who use dental sedation Lexington KY can get the dental treatment they need without feeling worried or unpleasant. Dr. Kim recognizes the value of dental care and is committed to providing patients with a great dental experience. Below, our dental team shares five facts concerning dental sedation. Additionally, these facts are to educate those interested in dental sedation to those who want to reduce their anxiety during their next dentist appointment.

Many Patients Are Eligible

Most patients who want a stress-free dental treatment can benefit from office-based anaesthetic. Adult, pediatric, and special needs patients who suffer from the following conditions are ideal candidates for sedation dentistry:

  • Individuals with dental anxieties or phobias.
  • Those who experience a lot of gagging when receiving dental work.
  • Patients who have difficulty remaining still

Dental Phobia Has Been Around For Centuries, and Sedation Continues to Modernize

To start, dental phobias have existed since the dawn of time. In fact, phobias goes back to 2250 B.C. and has evolved greatly throughout time as dentistry has modernized. Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, explains that dental sedation procedures continue to improve as medical technology progresses, reducing patients’ anxiety at the dentist.

You Won’t Remember Your Procedure

Our Lexington KY dental office explains that the majority of individuals who choose dental sedation have no recall of their operation. So, this is great news for people who have dental anxiety. In addition, it’s good for those who prefer not to remember the specifics of their dentist appointment.

You Can Use Dental Sedation For Longer Procedures

One of the most significant advantages of IV sedation is that it allows patients to undergo more complex treatments in a single consultation.  Our friends over at Bookcliff Family Dental, Grand Junction CO dentist, explains that patients can not only receive the care they require, but they can also make the most of their stay. As follows, this is because patients can book multiple procedures in one appointment. 

Sedation Dentistry is Customizable

Some people may benefit from modest sedation, while others may require a stronger sedative. The sedation approach chosen for your treatment is determined by a number of criteria. Thus, this includes the intricacy of the surgery and your overall health. To ensure that you receive the specialized care that you require, many sedation options are available. Importantly, these are ranging from a moderate sedative to general anesthesia are available.

Contact our Sedation Dentist Lexington KY Today

If you’ve been searching, sedation dentist near me, you’ve come to the right place! At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you relieve your pain. Contact our team today to book your appointment. 

TMJ Awareness Month

tmj awareness month lexington ky dentist

TMJ Awareness Month 

TMJ Awareness Month 2021

Your jaw is essential for chewing, speaking, and singing. Many individuals take this small part of their body for granted – until it begins to hurt. It is probable that you have TMJ dysfunction if you experience continuous discomfort in your jaw (sometimes referred to as TMD). Because November is TMJ Awareness Month, our Lexington KY dentist would like to take this time to talk about what TMD is, how to detect it, and how your dentist may be able to help you find relief with TMJ treatment in Lexington KY.

What Exactly Is TMD?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) links your lower jaw to the rest of your skull. TMD refers to any of a range of problems that impact how the TMJ operates and how it feels. TMD can be caused by a variety of reasons such as trauma, stress, misaligned teeth, poor posture, or persistent bruxism (teeth grinding).

The following are some indications that you may have TMD:

  • Jaw aches.
  • When you open your mouth, you may hear a clicking or popping sound.
  • Frequently occurring headaches & neck aches.
  • Difficulty widening the mouth.
  • Issues with hearing, such as ringing in the ears.
  • Chewing Difficulties

TMJ Therapy by a Professional

Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, have spent a significant amount of time and effort researching the complexities of how the TMJ operates. As a result, they are well-equipped to diagnose and treat TMD.

Your dentist in Lexington KY will recommend a therapy depending on your individual scenario after examining your jaw, analyzing how it moves, and taking X-rays. In certain circumstances, using an oral device to maintain the jaw in a favorable posture is the most effective strategy to combat TMD. In some cases, occlusal correction is required. An occlusal adjustment simply means that the dentist gradually changes the teeth to create a more equal bite and so relieve unneeded tension on the jaw. Surgery is only used in very rare cases to combat TMD and give long-term relief.

At-Home Treatments

In addition to professional therapy, your dentist may advise you to make certain changes to your everyday routine in order to manage your discomfort. We got with our friends at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, Colorado Springs dentist, to come up with at-home treatments. Here are some examples of at-home remedies:

  • Attempting to improve your posture
  • Avoiding chewing gum and other sticky or chewy foods.
  • Massage of the face to relax overworked face muscles, alternate wet heat and cold.
  • Using over-the-counter analgesics
  • Managing life pressures by doing more of what you like, taking some time off work, or employing other stress-relieving approaches.

How does your jaw feel?

Visit your dentist in November for a TMJ exam before subjecting it to all the sticky, sweet delicacies of year-end celebrations. We’re always available to help our patients feel their best. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today to learn more. 

Healthy Halloween Tips From Your Dentist

Healthy Halloween Tips from Your Dentist in Lexington KY

Healthy Halloween Tips 

Healthy Halloween Tips from Your Dentist in Lexington KY

Halloween is one of our favorite holidays at Park Hills Family Dentistry! We’re so happy that the Halloween festivities are finally here. We love it all – sweet treats, scary movies, and spooky decorations. Trick-or-treating is awesome, but Dr. Jinyoung Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, wants to make sure your family’s oral health isn’t neglected this Halloween. Follow these healthy Halloween Tips from your dentist!

Focus on Brushing & Flossing

Brushing and flossing your teeth are two of the most basic yet critical steps you can take to maintain a healthy smile. Just two minutes of brushing with fluoride toothpaste will help ensure that plaque and sugar do not build up on your teeth. It is also critical to floss between your teeth, where toothbrush bristles cannot reach. Our friend Dr. Dave Moghadam, a dentist in Easton, PA, adds that at-home care is an essential part of preventing gum disease. For more information about gum disease, read Gum Disease Must-Knows.

Choose a Few Sweets to Enjoy.

Although Halloween is just one day of the year, we all tend to snack on sweet Halloween treats well before and after Halloween. This can create a nuisance for your oral health. While avoiding sugary treats is most ideal, it can be a hard commitment, especially if you have little ones. However, you can limit your treat intake. For instance, you can limit to one piece of candy every day. That way, you can still enjoy your treats without putting your oral health on the line. 

Make Healthy Halloween Treats At Home

In your mouth, two types of bacteria cause damage: one feeds on sugar, and the other feeds on starch. A dental plaque is a sticky, colorless film that forms on the teeth as a result of the bacteria. Tooth decay occurs when plaque is not removed by saliva or brushing. Make your own sugar-free Halloween treats if you’re thinking about it. Lots of recipes can be found on the internet, ranging from sweets to savory dishes that can be served at a Halloween get-together.

Stay Hydrated

One of the best ways to avoid cavities this Halloween is by staying hydrated. Drink plenty of water so that the plaque doesn’t stick to your teeth. Dr. Kim recommends drinking at least eight glasses of water a day. This will not only help with your oral health but also your overall health. 

This Halloween, we hope you make your oral health a priority. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule your next appointment! We provide quality dental care for patients in Lexington, KY. 

Signs of a Dead Tooth

how to fix a cracked tooth - Lexington KY

Signs of a Dead Tooth 

Most Common Signs of a Dead Tooth 

Are our teeth meant to last a lifetime? The short answer is yes! However, it does take discipline and consistency in your daily life. Without implementing daily habits and making good choices, you could end up with a dead tooth. So, how do you know if your tooth is dying? In this article, Dr. Jinyoung Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, discusses the most common signs of a dead tooth. 

Causes of a Dead Tooth

To keep them strong, healthy teeth have a pulp chamber in the center. According to the American Dental Association, the pulp contains the tooth’s nerve tissue and blood vessels, which help keep it alive. The pulp can be found all the way down to the roots of the teeth. Patients may injure their pulp on accident, which may cause your tooth to die. However, your pulp can be damaged in a variety of ways. One reason is a chipped tooth, and the other is a large cavity. Bacteria from your mouth can enter your pulp when you crack a tooth. It is also possible for bacteria to get into the pulp through deeper cavities. The pulp has the potential to become infected and die in either situation.

Signs of a Dead Tooth

When the pulp becomes infected and dies, a variety of symptoms may appear. Dr. Kim says that one of the most prominent signs of a dead tooth is a pain when biting or chewing. Other warning signs you should watch out for include sudden toothache and sensitivity to hot or cold drinks/foods. Our friend Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, points out that when a tooth dies, pain isn’t always present. Because not everyone feels pain, they may not know that their tooth has died. It’s critical to have regular dental checkups if you want to catch dead teeth that aren’t causing any problems.

Options for Medical Treatment

Even if your pulp gets infected and dies, it won’t improve on its own. The infection that killed your pulp can spread to the bone surrounding your tooth if you don’t get dental treatment. If this happens, a pus-filled pocket may form in your jawbone. When a tooth is dead, you should contact an emergency dentist immediately. 

Dr. Kim may recommend tooth extraction or root canal therapy, depending on the state of your tooth. Your Lexington KY dentist will make a treatment plan for your tooth based on his or her findings. You may be advised to have your tooth extracted if it is severely cracked, for example. A root canal treatment may be able to save your tooth if the rest of the tooth is healthy except for the dead pulp.

Maintaining Good Dental Health

You can do a lot to keep your teeth in good shape. Dr. Kim says that the most critical part of maintaining a healthy smile is the oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth with fluoride toothpaste twice a day to keep your teeth healthy. This toothpaste repairs early tooth and gum damage and strengthens teeth by remineralizing weakened enamel. Also, be sure to floss at least once per day. Stay on top of your professional teeth cleanings and exams. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry in Lexington, KY, to schedule your next visit!