Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips

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Tooth Extraction Recovery 

What to Expect for Tooth Extraction Recovery

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

Swelling

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

Bleeding

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

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Dos

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

Keep Your Mouth Clean

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

Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations

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

Rest

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

Watch What You Eat

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

Tooth Extraction Recovery Tips: Don’ts

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

Straws 

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

Smoking

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

Blowing Your Nose

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

Eating Hard Foods

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

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

Reasons for Tooth Pain

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Reasons for Tooth Pain 

Common Reasons for Tooth Pain

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

Tooth Decay 

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

Misaligned Teeth

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

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

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

Teeth Grinding

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

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

Damaged Fillings 

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

Tooth Fractures

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

Periodontitis 

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

Tooth Abscess 

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

Contact Dentist in Lexington KY

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

Guide to Dental Bonding

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Guide to Dental Bonding 

Guide to Dental Bonding

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

What Is Dental Bonding?

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

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

Pros and Cons of Dental Bonding

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

Pros of Dental Bonding

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

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

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

Cons of Dental Bonding

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

Types of Dental Bonding

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

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

Contact Dentist in Lexington, KY

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

Clear Aligners Treatment

clear aligner treatment Lexington KY

Clear Aligners Treatment 

Clear Aligners Treatment

Clear aligners are one of the many technological advances that have vastly improved the dental industry as a whole. Patients everywhere are now straightening their smiles with clear aligners. In this article, Dr. Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, walks us through what you can expect with the clear aligner treatment. 

How Aligners Work

Like traditional braces, aligners are meant to shift the teeth to their desired place over time. Before treatment starts, Dr. Kim will access your smile using advanced dental technology. She will take digital impressions of your smile and show you what your desired smile will look like. With each aligner tray, you’ll be able to see how your smile improves. Once you’ve decided to start treatment, you will get custom aligners made. Every 2-3 weeks, you will be required to switch out your trays for a new set. Everyone’s smile is different, so that some treatments may take longer than others. Our friend Dr. Hoang, a dentist in Bethlehem, GA, agrees that clear aligner treatments are typically shorter than traditional braces. Below we share the pros and cons of clear aligners. 

Pros of Clear Aligners

  • No metal brackets or wires. Yes, no more embarrassing wires! Most people won’t notice you wearing your clear aligners whereas, it’s obvious if you have traditional braces.
  • Can correct most dental problems. Clear aligners can treat misaligned, overcrowded teeth, overbites, underbites, and more! 
  • Optimal oral health. Patients love the fact that clear aligners are removable. You can take them out whenever to brush, floss, and eat! Keep in mind that you will only be able to do so for a small amount of time. 
  • More efficient. Clear aligners are more efficient than traditional braces. 

Cons of Clear Aligners:

  • More expensive. Clear aligners are a little more expensive than traditional braces, but it’s well worth it!
  • More responsibility. If your teenager wants to undergo clear aligners, make sure they know they’re responsible for their aligner trays. It’s easy to lose them since they’ll be taking them out when they eat or drink.

Are Clear Aligners For Me?

Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, to see if clear aligners are for you. Dr. Kim and her team will assess your smile and recommend the best treatment options for your unique smile. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! 

Root Canal Must-Knows

Root canal must-knows Lexington KY

Root Canal Must-Knows 

Root Canal Must-Knows

When your dentist in Lexington, KY, recommends a root canal, it’s to save your tooth. Root canal therapy is designed to remove the bacteria on the root of your tooth. After visiting Park Hills Family Dentistry for a consultation, Dr. Kim will remove the contaminated pulp and thoroughly clean the inside of your tooth to stop the infection. We will seal your tooth with a dental crown, and it’ll be as good as new! If you’re planning on undergoing root canal therapy any time soon, read the article below, where Dr. Kim shares all of the root canal must-knows. 

Safe & Effective Root Canal Therapy

First things first, is root canal therapy safe? Of course! We wouldn’t recommend anything that could harm our patients. Patients often come to us in pain because of their tooth infections. Root canals are designed to eliminate the infection and restore your smile to its original glory. Finding the best dentist in Lexington, KY, to perform your root canal is key. Dr. Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, adds that root canals are the last chance to save your permanent tooth, so it’s important that it’s done correctly.

Does a Root Canal Hurt?

In contrast to common opinion, root canals cause no pain or discomfort. You will undergo general anesthesia during your treatment, just as you would for a tooth extraction. Dr. Alexa Johnson, an emergency dentist in Colorado Springs says it’s normal to feel some discomfort after your treatment, but it’ll go away once it’s healed properly. In no time, you’ll have full functionality of your teeth! 

Do I Need a Root Canal?

Your dentist or endodontic at Park Hills Family Dentistry will diagnose access your smile and recommend proper treatment. If a root canal is needed, we will get you on the schedule and likely prescribe you antibiotics to stop the tooth infection from spreading. Some patients who will likely need a root canal are experiencing the following: 

  • Cracked tooth 
  • Severe tooth decay
  • Tooth sensitivity to cold and hot
  • Severe pain when biting or chewing
  • Tooth abscess
  • Darkness or swelling around the infected tooth

The Best Root Canal Service in Lexington, KY

Park Hills Family Dentistry provides the best dental services in Lexington, KY. Amongst root canal therapy, we also provide patients a wide variety of restorative dentistry solutions: 

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today for a consultation. Our team is excited to help you and your family live with a happier and healthier smile.

The Importance of Visiting Your Lexington KY Dentist

visiting your dentist in Lexington KY

Visiting Your Lexington KY Dentist  

The Importance of Visiting Your Lexington KY Dentist 

Regular dental cleaning is an integral part of good oral hygiene. Besides keeping your teeth and gums at their best, routine dental cleaning helps your dentist prevent potential dental problems. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we recommend visiting our dental office every six months. In this article, we share the importance of visiting your Lexington, KY dentist annually. 

Why Dental Treatments Are Important 

A happy and healthy smile requires both good habits and professional care. Here’s why it’s necessary to make professional dental cleanings a priority.

Prevent Cavities & Tooth Decay

One of the most obvious reasons why people visit the dentist frequently for check-ups and cleaning is to prevent cavities. Professional cleanings are much more cost-effective than getting fillings or root canal therapy. If you have a fear of getting invasive dental treatment, then we recommend staying on top of general dentistry. 

Prevent Tooth Loss

Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems to-date. When plaque builds on your teeth, gum disease will eventually develop. As it progresses, you may get a tooth infection, then a dead tooth, and then be faced with permanent tooth loss. Teeth are meant to last a lifetime if you take good care of them. Once your teeth begin to fall out, you’ll need to undergo restorative dentistry. Dental cleanings dramatically decrease the risk of gum disease or periodontal disease.

Save Your Money

Most of the time, dental insurance policies have minimal to no co-pays for dental hygiene and examinations. Therefore, you can visit your dentist in Lexington, KY, without having to pay a huge fee. Our friend Dr. Josh, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, points out that other dental services such as cosmetic dentistry are likely not covered by your dental insurance. So taking care of your teeth will help prevent the need for expensive treatments like porcelain veneers.

Brighten Your Smile

Your smiles are typically one of the first things someone will notice about you. So, if you don’t make oral health a priority, everyone else will definitely notice. A healthy smile is bright and white without plaque and tartar. Achieving a brighter smile is achievable with proper oral hygiene and professional help.  

Improve Your General Health

It’s commonly known that our oral health and overall health are linked. Furthermore, dental problems such as gum disease are found in other diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and more. Tooth infections are also a result of poor oral health. Routine dental check-ups and cleanings will help you prevent serious dental problems in the future. If you have questions regarding your oral health, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today. 

 

Best Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments

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Different Cosmetic Dental Procedures 

Different Cosmetic Dental Procedures 

If you want to enhance your smile, cosmetic dentistry may be the perfect solution for you. In the article below, we share a few cosmetic dentistry treatments your dentist in Lexington, KY may recommend. 

Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a quick and easy treatment that can brighten your smile up to 10 shades. We offer two kinds of teeth whitening services at Park Hills Family Dentistry, in-office and take home whitening. Get rid of those stubborn stains and book a teeth whitening consultation today!

Dental Veneers

Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite material. They are specially made and cemented over the tooth. A veneer can significantly improve the look and feel of your smile. Think of dental veneers as a cap. It protects and covers your tooth, hiding imperfections. Those who have severe tooth decay, stubborn stains, or generally don’t like the look of their teeth should consider dental veneers. Our friend Dr. Ryan Helgerson, a dentist in Grand Junction, CO, agrees that dental veneers will change the overall look and function of your smile. It’s a treatment you should consider if you lack confidence in your smile. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. The implant is made out of titanium and is surgically placed into the jawbone. The implant acts as the root of your natural tooth and then is capped with a dental crown, bridge, or denture. Note that dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth, unlike dentures.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are designed to restore and strengthen your tooth. They’re an affordable solution to poorly formed, decayed, chipped teeth. Dr. Kim will custom make your dental crown to match your natural tooth’s shape, size, and color. The final result will look so identical to your other teeth, no one will notice. 

Dental Bonding

Tooth bonding is one of the most affordable cosmetic procedures available. This treatment goes a long way and can make your teeth look as good as new. Dental bonding is a great solution to badly stained, broken, or chipped teeth. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry for a consultation today.

Clear Aligners

Achieving a smile that is beautiful and cohesive is a goal for many. Invisalign or Clear Aligners are a great way to straighten your smile in a discreet way. These removable trays are not only more comfortable than traditional braces, but also more effective and efficient. 

Park Hills Family Dentistry 

Interested in a new and improved smile? Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, for a consultation! Dr. Kim and her team will work with you to find the best solution for you. Contact us  today to let us know how we can assist you with your dental needs.

Gum Disease Must-Knows

gum disease must-knows

Gum Disease Must-Knows 

Gum Disease Must-Knows

In honor of Gum Disease Awareness Month, Dr. Kim is sharing gum disease must-knows! If you’re not familiar with gum disease, it’s one of the most common dental problems in the world. In fact, more than 40% of adults in the U.S. have gum disease. Most dentists in Lexington, KY would rather you prevent gum disease than treat it. Here are few answers to the questions often asked about gum disease. 

What’s Gum Disease?

Gum disease is also referred to as periodontal disease, which is a very common dental condition. Those who develop gum disease have a good amount of plaque build-up. Plaque may be extracted by shaving, flossing, and mouthwash regularly and thoroughly. Even with great oral habits, it is still necessary to get a good dental cleaning every six months from your Lexington, KY dentist.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gingivitis or gum disease is usually caused by bad habits:

  • Poor oral health habits
  • Uses of tobacco products such as chewing tobacco or smoking
  • Medications: Our friend, Dr. Kacos, a dentist in Shreveport, LA, says that gingivitis is a side effect of some steroids, anti-epilepsy products, calcium channel blocks, birth control, and cancer drugs.
  • Genetics: many individuals are naturally more vulnerable to gum disease.

Signs of Gum Disease

Although there are several stages of gum disease, the symptoms are pretty straight forward. First, you’ll notice that your gums start to bleed when you brush or floss. As the gum disease progresses, your gums will start to recede and bleed after doing everyday tasks like chewing. They will become swollen and red. If gum disease is left untreated, your teeth will eventually fall out. It’s important to stop gum disease as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Gum Disease

The three effective ways to avoid gum disease are by cleaning your teeth, flossing regularly, and seeing your dentist in Lexington, KY for a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Many normal citizens would not know whether they develop gum disease. That’s why it’s necessary to see Dr. Kim. There is a widespread belief that if you wash and floss daily, there is no risk of having dental problems. Since certain causes of gum disease are not specifically related to oral health, preventative dentistry is necessary. If you live in Lexington, KY, give our dental office a call to set up an appointment! Our team is happy to help you and your family with any dental concerns.

Advantages of Botox & Fillers

botox and filler Lexington ky

Advantages of Botox
& Filler 

Advantages of Botox & Fillers at the Dentist

Botox is a distilled type of botulinum toxin produced by bacteria. While it is deadly in larger quantities, the small controlled amount of Botox given helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines. There are many advantages of botox and fillers at the dentist. In the article below, Dr. Jin Young Kim, a dentist in Lexington, KY, shares everything you need to know about this cosmetic treatment.

How Does Botox Work?

Botox operates by blocking nerve impulses in the muscles where the nerve is injected. When these nerve impulses are disrupted, the affected muscle is partially paralyzed or frozen. The lack of movement allows certain wrinkles can be softened, diminished, or even removed. That’s why so many people opt-in for this treatment.

What is Botox Able to Correct?

Botox acts only on wrinkles created by muscle movement. These are known as complex wrinkles and are also referred to as speech lines. The most common dynamic wrinkles that Botox commonly treats are lines on the upper lip, such as the “11” between the brows, the horizontal lines on the forehead, and the crow’s legs. These lines form over time due to smiling, frowning, squinting, and other face features.

Unfortunately, Botox will not work on fine lines and wrinkles that are caused by sagging or fainting. They are known as static wrinkles. Static wrinkles include lines in the cheeks, collar, and jowl area. Botox is not a permanent cure. Repeated treatments are important for sustained wrinkle-reducing effects. Most people find that Botox lasts for 3 to 4 months.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are also commonly known as soft tissue fillers. These are substances meant to be inserted under the surface of the skin to add bulk and fullness.

Substances used in dermal fillers shall include:

  • Calcium hydroxylapatite, a mineral-like compound found in bones.
  • Hyaluronic acid, which is present in some of the body’s fluids and tissues, adds plumpness to the skin.
  • Polyalkylimide is a translucent gel that is comfortable with the body.
  • Polylactic acid, which causes the skin to create more collagen.
  • Polymethyl-methacrylate microsphere (PMMA), a semi-permanent filler
  • Each of these is intended to address various symptoms of aging or other cosmetic issues.

They often differ in the time they take to work, as well as how long they last. Some fillers last for 6 months, while others last for up to 2 years or longer.

Our friends at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, a cosmetic dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, agrees that patients should address their particular needs and desires with their physician in order to decide which filler will be the best option for them.

What Do Dermal Fillers Do?

Various forms of dermal fillers are formulated to treat various symptoms of aging. Depending on the filler you have chosen, they may:

  • Plump the thinning lips
  • Enhance or fill in shallow areas of the face
  • Decrease or remove the shadow or wrinkle under the eye caused by the lower eyelid.
  • Fill or soften the appearance of the recessed scars.
  • Fill or soften the static wrinkles, particularly on the lower face.
  • Static wrinkles are those around the mouth and along the cheeks. These wrinkles are typically the result of a loss of collagen and skin elasticity.

Botox vs. Fillers

In summary, dentists can agree that the variations between botox and fillers are as follows:

  • Botox: This freezes muscles to stop wrinkles and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. Usually, they are located in the upper face, such as the forehead and around the eyes. Botox effects last for 3 to 4 months. 
  • Dermal fillers: Uses hyaluronic acid and similar substances for filling in or plumping areas that have lost volume and smoothness. This involves lines around the mouth, thin lips, and cheeks that have lost their fullness. They can also be used on forehead wrinkles, scars, and other areas that need extra volume for a smoother look. The effects of the dermal filler differ depending on which filler is used.

Since Botox and fillers are separate agents for different applications, Botox and fillers can often combine them in one procedure. For example, someone may use Botox to correct the lines between the eyes and the filler to correct the smile’s lines around the mouth. If you’re interested in getting botox and fillers in Lexington, KY, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today! Our professional will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We look forward to seeing you soon. 

Benefits of Invisalign

benefits of Invisalign

Benefits of Invisalign 

Benefits of Invisalign Clear Aligners

Patients have been straightening their teeth with traditional braces for years. Luckily, Invisalign clear aligners are the next best thing. Now, patients are able to repair crooked teeth with removable aligner trays. This modern dental technology provides patients with a more efficient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing treatment. Below, Dr. Kim, a cosmetic dentist in Lexington, KY, shares the benefits of Invisalign aligners.

Why Invisalign? 

For a lot of people trying to repair their crooked smile with traditional braces puts a big burden on their social life. Luckily, Invisalign aligners treat many dental problems such as crooked teeth, overbites, and crowded teeth. Misaligned teeth can lead to major dental problems if left untreated. That’s why dentists in Lexington, KY, suggest starting your orthodontic treatment before it’s too late.

Straight teeth decrease the risk of periodontal disease, a gum disease that may become serious enough to break down bone jaw tissue. This risk is minimized as straight teeth are easier to clean, removing harmful bacteria. Dr. Ben Kacos, an emergency dentist in Shreveport, LA, says that straight teeth help you to chew properly and prevent uneven grinding on your teeth. Straight teeth also match the mouth, which decreases pain and discomfort. Having straight teeth can also help clear airways and help people with sleep apnea.

Clear Aligners

There are so many benefits to Invisalign. Before we get into these benefits, let’s discuss how Invisalign is used. With new scanning technologies, your Lexington, KY dentist will use a dental scanner to scan your teeth and build custom clear aligners. Created with a medical-grade polyurethane resin, Invisalgin is virtually invisable. Every aligner is a custom fit designed for your teeth to slowly bring them to their position.

Invisible aligners must be worn for a minimum of 22 hours per day. Although they’re removable, they can’t straighten teeth unless you’re wearing them. It may be an adjustment at first, but they should be taken out during meals, and at any time you eat or drink something other than cold water. If correctly worn, most treatments last between 12 – 18 months. Luckily, in the first three months, you will begin to see changes in your teeth.

Benefits of Invisalign in Lexington, KY

Better Comfort

Removable clear aligners are way more comfortable than traditional braces. How? Patients often complain that their traditional metal brackets cut into their lips and cheeks. They can leave sores that are hard to heal. Your Lexington, KY dentist may recommend adding wax to the outside brackets. If you want to avoid this, try Invisalign instead.

Invisible aligners often have more direct control over straightening the teeth due to their custom fit. During your treatment, Dr. Kim will provide you with a series of aligners. Over time, these aligners will move your teeth and correct your smile.

Better Dental Hygiene

One of the best advantages of Invisalign is that it helps you to take better care of your teeth. After all, a happy smile is a healthy smile. Our goal is to enhance your smile while keeping tooth decay and gum disease at bay. With traditional metal braces, pieces of food and plaque are stuck around and inside brackets that are difficult to clean properly. If you are more susceptible to dental decay, consider Invisalign over traditional braces. With Invisalign, you can remove the aligners and continue with your daily dental routine. Flossing and brushing can all be carried out normally.

Boosts Self-Confidence

The most common reason for someone to straighten their teeth is the aesthetic appeal. Your smile are one of the first things you look at when you wake up, and your smile is the first thing that other people remember. If you don’t feel good about your teeth and smile, you won’t feel confident about yourself. Significant evidence suggests that straightening your teeth can improve self-esteem, particularly for teenagers.

Another advantage of invisible aligners is that they are made of translucent resin to match the teeth perfectly. This means that they’re virtually invisible because many people don’t even know that you’re straightening your teeth, unlike traditional braces. Teenagers may feel more self-conscious about their smile if they choose traditional braces.

Fewer Dental Visits

With conventional braces, you also need to see an orthodontic surgeon make sure the braces are fitted correctly. These visits can involve removing and replacing the bracket, adjusting the size of the wire, tightening specific brackets, and even wiring specific brackets together with extra wire. You could end up spending hours of your time waiting in your dental chair for your appointment.

With Invisalign, you won’t have to see your cosmetic dentist in Lexington, KY, as much. The appointments are quicker and less invasive than traditional braces. You’ll need to return every four to six weeks, but between now, you’re going to have a set of aligners to turn in every two weeks. Since aligners are already planned and built, you won’t need any additional dental work to fix your teeth.

Eat & Drink What You Want

With traditional braces, you are limited to foods that you can eat or drink, but with Invisalign, all foods and beverages are allowed. Our friends at Green Dental Care, a dental office in Parker, CO, agree that you shouldn’t eat sticky, hard, or crunchy food. This excludes caramel, gum, nuts, popcorn, ice, corn-on-the-cob, and apples. Luckily, with removable aligners, you don’t have to think about what you’re consuming.

The only food or drink that you can eat with your aligners is cold water. Otherwise, food particles can get stuck inside the aligners, causing bacteria and plaque build-up. When removed, they should be securely stored in their travel container to prevent contamination or loss. After you’ve done eating, you can try brushing your teeth or rinsing with water before putting your aligners back in so that you can stop any food particles from sticking between your teeth and the aligner.

Invisalign in Lexington, KY

As you can see, there are many benefits to Invisalign aligners. If you want to straighten your smile in a discrete way, Invisalign is the way to go. It’s not only comfortable but also more efficient than traditional braces. Although Invisalign corrects most dental problems, it’s not for everyone. Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, to schedule an Invisalign consultation with Dr. Jin Young Kim. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today.