Tooth Decay Consequences & Solutions

Tooth Decay Consequences & Solutions

Tooth Decay Consequences & Solutions  

Everything You Need To Know About Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a destructive process that attacks teeth’ hard outer surfaces. The primary cause of tooth decay is bacteria in the mouth. When these bacteria come into contact with sugary or starchy foods, they produce acids that can eat away at tooth enamel. If left untreated, tooth decay can progress to the point where it attacks deeper layers of a tooth, leading to cavities. Treatment for tooth decay depends on the severity of the condition.

In some cases, your dentist in Lexington Ky may be able to reverse the damage by removing the bacteria and restoring the affected area with a filling. However, more advanced cases may require root canal therapy or even extraction. Prevention is always the best approach to tooth decay, and brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste effectively reduces your risk. Find out some tooth decay consequences & solutions to learn more. 

What Causes Tooth Decay

When it comes to dental health, plaque is one of the biggest enemies. Plaque is a sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth. When a person eats sugary or starchy food, the bacteria in the plaque produce acids that attack tooth enamel. Over time, these acids leach out minerals from teeth and erode the enamel, causing tooth decay and, eventually, cavities. The best way to combat plaque is to brush and floss regularly. Brushing removes plaque from the surface of teeth, while flossing helps to remove plaque from between teeth. In addition, it is also important to eat a balanced diet and limit sugary and starchy foods. Our friends at College Hill Dental Group, the best dentist in Easton, Pa, believe by taking these steps, you can help to keep your teeth healthy and prevent cavities.

What Can Happen When You Avoid Going To Your Lexington, Ky Dentist 

Left untreated, tooth decay can cause a variety of problems. The pain associated with tooth decay can be severe, and the infection can spread to other parts of the mouth. In addition, tooth decay can lead to the loss of teeth, as well as abscesses. Abscesses are pockets of pus that form around the tooth, and if left untreated, they can lead to serious health problems. The best dentist in Lexington, Ky, believes that treating tooth decay early is important to avoid these complications. If you think you may have tooth decay, it is important to see a dentist near me as soon as possible.

How To Avoid More Damage To Your Oral Health

According to the American Dental Association, tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases in children. Fortunately, it is also preventable. The ADA recommends that people take the following steps to prevent or stop tooth decay: brushing teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, limiting snacking, eating healthy, nutritious meals, asking a dentist about fluoride supplements, and visiting a dentist regularly for checkups and professional cleaning. By following these recommendations, people can help ensure that their teeth remain healthy and decay-free.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today! 

If you’re looking for experienced, professional dental care, look no further than Park Hills Family Dentistry. Our team of exceptional dentists and hygienists provides a wide range of services, from preventive care to complex restorative procedures. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. And we’re always accepting new patients, so don’t hesitate to contact us for all your dental needs.

What is a Frenotomy?

what is a frenotomy

What is a Frenotomy? 

What To Know About Frenotomy

If you suspect your child has tongue-tie, get aid and guidance from your dentist in Lexington KY. Before prescribing the best course of action, Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, will undertake a physical exam to determine what is wrong. Dentists may choose to postpone treatment at times. This is due to the possibility that the issue may not produce any complications or that the lingual frenum will release. Below, we answer, “What is a Frenotomy?”

Tongue-Tied

First, our dentist Lexington KY shares that frenulums can be found in many areas of the mouth. The lingual frenum is the frenulum that is positioned under the tongue. A lingual frenum can sometimes hinder oral function. This results in tongue-tie, a condition in which the mobility of the language is limited. This happens when the lingual frenulum is too short, too tight, or too close to the tongue tip.

Problems

This condition may not be a big issue for some people. However, it can cause problems for others. Some people have difficulties licking their lips or raising the tip of their tongue into their mouth. As a result, kids may have trouble speaking and eating. People frequently have difficulty pronouncing some letters of the alphabet.

Tongue-tie is most common in infants. The illness can impair a baby’s ability to breastfeed and, in rare cases, bottle-feed. In addition, a newborn may not consume enough fluids to acquire weight. The lingual frenulum can relax and detach from the tongue on its own at times. However, in some circumstances, it may be necessary to split it. This may entail the frenectomy operation, which aids in releasing the tongue. If you suspect this, search for a dentist near me to assist. 

Frenectomy

A frenectomy is a surgical treatment that aids in the removal of the lingual frenum. As a result, only the most severe cases of tongue-tie are split. If the baby is under three months old, the surgery can be done using topical or local anesthetic. It is occasionally performed under general anesthesia.

The region must be numbed if topical or local anesthetic is employed. The baby’s head will next be tightly kept in place before the frenum is severed using either a laser or surgical scissors. Babies can nurse immediately following the operation. This technique has minor risks and complications. Tongue mobility is usually restored within a few months following the procedure.

Before the operation, older children and adults may be given local or general anesthesia. When the tongue-tie has been surgically separated, stitches are necessary. After a few weeks, the mouth usually recovers. Our friends over at Kaleidoscope Kids Dentistry, a pediatric dentist in SLC, share that adults and older children may require speech therapy following the operation. The main danger of a frenectomy is the use of anesthesia. As with any operation, there is a risk of infection, bleeding, and injury to the tongue or surrounding tissues.

Takeaway

Tongue-tie can cause nursing issues as well as difficulties speaking and eating. The lingual frenum may need to be clipped on occasion. This can be accomplished with a frenectomy, which is a surgical surgery that divides it. The laser or surgical scissors are used in the process. A frenectomy is typically effective and can help to prevent dental, speech, and feeding difficulties. If you observe any indications of tongue-tie in your kid, you should consult your general dentist.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today

Our team is ready for any needs you may have. Contact us today to make an appointment for a consultation to see if our team can help in any way.

Dental Implants Lexington KY

dental implants lexington ky

Dental Implants Lexington KY  

Dental Implants in Lexington KY

A dental implant is a man-made tooth root in your jaw to support a prosthetic tooth or bridge. Most people, however, use the phrase “dental implants” to refer to the combination of the implant (the artificial tooth root) and the artificial tooth. Dental implants Lexington KY may be an option for patients who have lost one or more teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or another cause and do not want to use dentures.

Dental Implant Types

The most common form of implant is endosteal (in the bone). Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, explains that this can take the shape of screws, cylinders, or blades surgically implanted into the bone of the jaw. Each implant holds replacement teeth depending on the situation it can be one or sometimes more. Patients already wearing bridges or removable dentures may benefit from this type of implant.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

If you meet the following criteria, you are a good candidate for a dental implant:

  • You have overall solid and oral health.
  • Jawbone that is strong enough to hold the implant.
  • You have healthy gum tissues and no periodontal disease.

Dental implants are linked to the mouth’s soft tissues (gums) and underlying hard tissues (bone). Periodontists offer the right mix of knowledge to ensure you obtain a dental implant solution that looks and feels like your own teeth since they have undergone three years of specialized training on top of dental school to make them specialists on both soft and hard tissues.

Dental Implant Procedures: What Are They?

Your dentist in Lexington KY will design a treatment plan for you based on your condition and the type of implant you choose.

Depending on your condition, the following are potential therapy options:

  • Single Tooth Dental Implants – If you are missing a single tooth, a single dental implant can be used to replace it.
  • Multiple Tooth Dental Implants – If you are missing numerous teeth, multiple dental implants might be used to replace them.
  • Full Mouth Dental Implants – If you miss all of your teeth, full mouth dental implants can replace them.
  • Sinus Expansion – The amount and quality of the bone where the implant is to be put is critical to implant success. Due to limited bone quantity and quality and the proximity to the sinus, the upper back jaw has typically been one of the most challenging places to insert dental implants properly. Sinus augmentation, which raises the sinus floor and develops bone for the implantation of dental implants, can assist in remedying this condition.
  • Ridge Modification – Our friends at Park Boulevard Family Dentistry, dentist in Pinellas Park FL, shares that deformities in the upper or lower jaw might leave you with the insufficient bone for dental implants. The gum is peeled away from the ridge to expose the void where the bone is lacking to address the condition. To build up the ridge, the space is subsequently filled with bone or bone replacement. Ridge alteration has been found to significantly enhance the aesthetics of the jaw and increase the likelihood of successful implant placement.

Follow-up on Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants, like natural teeth, require detailed at-home oral care and frequent dental appointments to maintain function and avoid peri-implant disease. Brushing and flossing are still required to maintain your implant clean and plaque-free.

Following your implant placement, your periodontist will collaborate with you and your regular dentist to create the optimal treatment plan for you. Periodic follow-up appointments will be planned to ensure the health of your implant, teeth, and gums.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today for Dental Care

When it comes to dental implants they can be for everyone, we just need to find the right plan for you. We have to pin down what types of implant procedure that is needed for your specific needs  Contact our team to start talking about the dental implant needs you may have. We are here to help you decide what we want to do moving forward.

Why Do I Need to See Dentist Twice a Year?

why do i need to see a dentist twice a year

Why Do I Need to See a Dentist Twice a Year? 

The Importance of Seeing Your Dentist For Routine Cleanings

Most individuals would admit that going to the dentist is not at the top of their list of things to do. However, there are several benefits that should make you want to follow your routine cleanings. Today on the blog, our dentist in Lexington KY answers the question, “Why do I need to see a dentist twice a year?” 

Routine Cleanings Are Essential

The frequency with which you should see your dentist Lexington KY is determined by the condition of your teeth and gums, as well as your ability to maintain proper oral hygiene on your own.

The ultimate objective is to visit you frequently enough to keep any oral issues at bay. Tooth decay (cavities) and periodontitis (gum disease) may both cause pain and tooth loss and are completely preventable. Seeing a dentist near me on a regular basis can help avoid them. Or, at the absolute least, stop them in their tracks. Thus, it’s critical to sit in the chair at least twice a year.

Keep Your Dental Health In Check By Eliminating Bacteria

Keep in mind that the bacteria in your mouth are dangerous opportunists that can harm your dental health without your knowledge. Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY explains that plaque, a potentially hazardous bacterial film, is continually growing on your teeth and gums. Plaque is a whitish, sticky material that may eat away at your enamel (the strong outer layer of your teeth) and cause cavities. If plaque is not removed on a regular basis, it can harden into tartar or calculus, which can lead to gum disease.

You definitely want to avoid plaque developing into tartar. Thus, this is why dental checkups are so important. Additionally, tartar cannot be removed by even the most experienced brusher and flosser.

Dental Health is Correlated to Overall Health

Aside from that, seeing your dentist in Lexington on a regular basis may help maintain more than just your teeth healthy. Our friend Dr. Boals, dentist Colorado Springs, explains that diabetes and anemia are two examples of illnesses that might manifest themselves in your mouth. If your dentist finds something out of the ordinary during a visit, they might refer you to a specialist who will examine you.

Keep Your Teeth Clean and Healthy

Visiting the dentist may also encourage you to improve your dental hygiene. Do you know how your teeth feel silky-smooth after cleaning, and how it motivates you to do everything it takes to keep them that way? Try to implement proper oral hygiene every day of the year!

Dental Anxiety Options

If you’re afraid of going to the dentist, there are several methods to make it less frightening.

Thus, speak with your dentist. Tell them about your dental phobias and ask if there is anything they or their practice can do to help. Listening to music through headphones, utilizing nitrous oxide (laughing gas), and other options are possible.

Going to the dentist on a regular basis might help you feel more comfortable with the whole process. Furthermore, keeping your teeth clean may result in fewer checkups in the future (or fewer appointments, period).

You can help your dental appointments flow more easily by maintaining good oral hygiene and decreasing plaque and tartar. Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste (it builds your enamel) and floss once a day. Sure, it’s hardly the most exciting thing in the world. However, as anybody who has had a root canal will attest, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of treatment.

Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry Today for all Dental Needs

Of course, our dental team is here to help with all dental health needs. So, contact our dental office in Lexington, KY to schedule a routine check-up today.

Our Dentists in Lexington KY

Our Dentist in Lexington KY

Our Lexington KY Dentists 

Celebrating National Dentist Day – Our Lexington KY Dentists

Special days remind us to thank the excellent people who contribute to our lives and communities each year. So, in honor of National Dentist Day on March 6th, don’t forget about National Dentist’s Day in March, the ideal time to recognize that particular individual who keeps your smile gleaming brilliantly all year.

Today on the blog, in honor of this special holiday, our team features our dentists in Lexington KY. Get to know Dr. Kim and Dr. Oberst below!

Park Hills Family Dentistry

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, our team’s goal is to establish long-term relationships with our patients and deliver high-quality, consumer-friendly dental services for the entire family. We are proud to have the best dentist in Lexington KY on our team.

Get to Know Dr. Kim

Dr. Jinyoung Kim, DMD, is a native of South Korea who earned a BS in Biology from the University of Kentucky and a DMD from the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry in Lexington, Kentucky. Dr. Kim, a dedicated dentist in Lexington KY, offers a comprehensive range of restorative dental services. This includes fillings, crowns, implants, dentures, and aesthetic dentistry. Additionally, Dr. Kim’s ability to immediately establish trust and rapport with new, particularly nervous patients has contributed to her success as a dentist.

In her free time, Dr. Kim enjoys tennis, swimming, golf, hiking, and needlepoint in her spare time.

Get to Know Dr. Oberst

Dr. Shelby Oberst received her bachelor’s degree in biology from Butler University. She subsequently attended the University of Kentucky College of Dentistry, where she was recognized for her oral medicine and oral pathology achievements. Dr. Oberst has the honor of becoming the state’s first dental student to deliver the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Oberst, our Lexington KY Dentist, enjoys working with youngsters and worried patients in particular. In addition, she enjoys reading and going for walks with her dog in her spare time.

Contact Our Lexington KY Dentists

We are so grateful to have such amazing patients. It is truly our pleasure to serve the Lexington Kentucky area. If you need dental services, please don’t put them off! Preventive dentistry is the best way to keep your smile beautiful. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today to schedule. 

Why Get Botox at the Dentist

why get botox at the dentist lexington ky

Why Get Botox at the Dentist 

When Should I Get Botox at the Dentist?

Botox may be a derogatory term. It’s not usually something you want to be renowned for, but Botox in dentistry is different. Botox is most commonly used in dentistry to help fix face appearance. It is a minimally invasive method of treating a few different things. 

Today, our dentist in Lexington KY shares some of the various uses of botox in dentistry and how it could benefit you.

Botox in Dentistry: What Is It?

While we’ve previously discussed some of the numerous ways it might be utilized to aid dental patients, it’s essential to explain what it is.

It’s created from a bacterium called Clostridium botulinum, found in various natural compounds. When having botox injections in therapy, a little dosage is administered that only lasts for a short period. Without surgery, there are no long-term means to sustain botox results. Therefore, regular Botox treatments are required to maintain and maintain the advantages of botox treatments.

Below, we share some ways our Lexington KY Dentist can use Botox at the dentist 

  • High Lip Lines
  • Adjusting to New Dentures
  • TMJ and Teeth Grinding
  • Lip and Face Ageing Lines
  • Facial Swelling and Excess Sweating
  • Enhancing and Reshaping Your Smile
  • Botox for High Lip Lines

Getting Used to New Dentures

New dentures can typically cause a great deal of discomfort. Our mouths are frequently better accustomed to gradual alterations, but dentures  can offer a sudden and significant shift. Though some people may not have a problem adjusting to new dentures, others may enjoy the benefits of a botox treatment to assist in relaxing their muscles.

Botox can significantly reduce the discomfort and agony associated with practically any orthodontic or dental procedure. In addition, many dentists will offer Botox to help you adjust to your dentures. This is only if you are experiencing significant or unusual discomfort.

TMJ and Teeth Grinding

TMJ and teeth grinding can cause a ton of pricey issues. There are numerous methods for treating tooth grinding, including botox injections into the muscles that cause grinding, mouth guards, and other treatments. If you’ve discovered that you grind your teeth while sleeping or throughout the day, our dentist near me strongly advises you to contact us for TMJ treatment in Lexington KY. 

TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorders, occurs when the muscles get stiff due to stress. This creates discomfort when chewing, talking, or performing other jaw movements. Botox can relax TMJ joints and muscles, providing pain relief.

Improve and Reshape Your Smile

Botox can reshape your smile. Thus, it might help you feel more confident in your smile, from lip lines to wrinkles. Dr. Kim, the best dentist in Lexington KY, can help you accomplish crucial aesthetic modifications to boost your confidence in your smile by using botox.

Ways to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

ways to keep your childs teeth healthy

Ways to Keep Your Child's Teeth Healthy 

Ways to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy – Children’s Dental Health Awareness Month

As parents, we realize the value of proper oral hygiene and try our best to instill it in our children. Of course, good adult teeth are built on the foundation of healthy children’s teeth! So this week, in honor of National Children’s Dental Health Month, our dentist near me is discussing ways to keep your child’s teeth healthy. 

How to Keep Your Child’s Teeth Healthy

Unfortunately, many of the negative impacts of poor dental hygiene can last long into childhood, so what better time than National Children’s Dental Health Month to provide some recommendations for keeping kids’ teeth healthy?

Set a Good Example

First, it’s important to note that kids prefer to copy people around them. So, our dentist Lexington KY recommends being a positive role model by practicing healthy oral health behaviors. For example, brush and floss with your children rather than leave them alone in the bathroom. 

Create a Routine Together

Teach it to them. Show children under the age of three how to use a rice-sized quantity of toothpaste. Once children understand how to spit the paste rather than consume it, they can use a pea-sized amount. Children can floss and rinse with mouthwash daily when their teeth have grown close enough to touch.

Maintain Your Dental Visits

Maintain a consistent schedule of seeing the dentist twice a year, and include your children in the process. You make it a habit by maintaining your appointments, and they will follow suit. Your child should have their first dental appointment between 6 months of the eruption of their first tooth or their first birthday, whichever comes first, and then every year after that. Contact us for a teeth cleaning in Lexington KY. 

Discuss Oral Health at Home

Please discuss with your children what they may expect at the dentist. Discuss any issues you have with your dentist at their dental visits, such as crowding, thumb sucking, tooth loss, mouth guards, and anything else that worries you.

Consume Nutritious Foods

Avoiding sugary drinks and meals not only improves general health but may also spark a conversation about cavities. Allowing sugar to sit on your teeth can cause decay, and we all want healthy, strong teeth to enjoy the things we like.

Brush For 2 Minutes Every Time

Although it is not always possible, it is advised to brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes. Thus, our dentist office in Lexington KY recommends setting a timer. Some apps make brushing and caring for your teeth enjoyable.

Consider Dental Sealants

Talk to your dentist in Lexington KY about getting your child’s teeth sealed for healthy youngsters’ teeth. Sealants can aid in the prevention of cavities and subsequent fillings.

Reward Your Kids

Allow children to pick their toothbrushes (within limits), and consider using a target sheet to track their progress toward a goal that leads to a reward, such as going to the movies or shopping at a toy store. Our friend Dr. Hobfoll, dentist for kids Salt Lake City, says this is one of his favorite tips to get kids excited about dentistry. 

Contact Our Lexington KY Dentist Today

At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we are proud to offer top-rated dental services in Lexington, KY for all ages. Contact us today to let us know how we can serve your family. 

Signs to Get Wisdom Teeth Removed

signs to get your wisdom teeth removed

Signs to Get Wisdom Teeth Removed 

What is the purpose of wisdom teeth? Scholars think that wisdom teeth evolved due to consuming raw meats, vegetables, and roots. Some people develop their third set of molars between 17 and 21, sometimes known as the wisdom years. However, they are not always functional and might clutter the mouth or cause future difficulties. Today on the blog, our dentist in Lexington KY shares signs to get wisdom teeth removed. 

Evaluation of Wisdom Teeth in Young Adults

Between the ages of 17 and 21, wisdom teeth typically emerge. Therefore, it is advised that the wisdom teeth be evaluated for the first time between the ages of 16 and 19. Our Lexington KY Dentist explains that the bones in your mouth get more challenging as you age, making them difficult to remove.

Even if the patient is not suffering typical symptoms, some dentists choose to remove wisdom teeth to avoid future issues.

Impacted Wisdom Teeth

In certain circumstances, wisdom teeth are “impacted,” meaning they do not have enough room to emerge from the gums and develop correctly.

Impacted wisdom teeth can produce a variety of symptoms, including:

  • Gums that are swollen, tender, or bleeding
  • Jaw ache
  • Jaw Swelling or Tenderness
  • Breathing Problems
  • You’re having trouble opening your mouth.
  • Although affected wisdom teeth may not cause any symptoms in certain circumstances, dentists and oral surgeons may advise removing impacted wisdom teeth to avoid future problems.

Inadequate Development

When wisdom teeth come in, they might take too much space in the mouth. Braces cannot be used to straighten these teeth. Our friends over at Bookcliff Family Dental, dentist in Grand Junction, explain that this technique can be performed to make the teeth fit together when the mouth is overcrowded. The only alternative is for them to be eliminated. Your Lexington dentist can tell you which teeth may need to be removed. They may have to remove all of them or only a few.

There are generally 28 teeth in the mouth before wisdom teeth appear. There will be 32 teeth when the wisdom teeth have grown in. There may not be enough space in everyone’s mouths to accommodate the extra teeth, which can cause pain and discomfort. Wisdom tooth extraction is advised to avoid or remove common symptoms such as:

Irritation and Pain

Wisdom teeth can cause aches and pains as they grow in. If you are in pain or discomfort, see your dentist near me for an examination and x-rays. They can tell if the discomfort is caused by the wisdom teeth or anything else. Extraction is not always the best option, as determined by your dentist. The pain may subside with time, and no extraction will be necessary.

Eating Difficulties

If you suffer pain when eating, this might be a sign that your wisdom teeth need to be removed. Food might become lodged between the gums and the crowns of the teeth. This might lead to many issues if you can’t get to the back of your mouth and clean thoroughly while brushing. The most straightforward approach to deal with this issue is to consult with a dentist to locate the right things to solve it. If the problem cannot be resolved, an extraction may be the only option.

A Cyst Around the Tooth

A cyst is formed when a sac adjacent to the teeth fills with fluid. It can harm bones, roots, and adjacent structures if left untreated. If it grows exceptionally severe, it might develop into a tumor and necessitate further surgery.

Teeth Are Not Perfectly Straight

If the wisdom teeth come in incorrectly, the other teeth may shift and migrate over. They may potentially cause harm to the other teeth. Extraction can save other teeth from becoming damaged. There are several ideas as to why wisdom teeth emerge crooked and sideways. Our jaws are supposed to be too small to accommodate a third molar, which then knocks against the others, forcing it to develop sideways. You might also consider removing wisdom teeth before starting orthodontic treatment to give more room to adjust misalignments.

Sinus Problems

Wisdom teeth can cause several sinus issues. These issues emerge as teeth on the upper jaw grow in. When teeth grow and roots form, they can push and rub against the sinuses, causing pressure to build up. Even though this is not a common occurrence, wisdom teeth can occasionally cause sinus discomfort, anxiety, headaches, and congestion.

Cavities

The placement of wisdom teeth can significantly influence cleaning surfaces where germs can lurk. For example, if the gums get inflamed, spaces between the teeth can form, allowing germs to proliferate. This will then stimulate the formation of cavities, which will lead to infection.

Gum Inflammation

When wisdom teeth emerge, they might cause a flap of gum tissue to form close to the tooth. This gum tissue can capture microscopic particles of food and microorganisms. As a result, the tissue surrounding the teeth might become stiff and irritated, making cleaning difficult. This is known as pericoronitis, and it can also happen around wisdom teeth that are still beneath your gums.

Is it necessary to remove wisdom teeth?

Some people have their wisdom teeth for the rest of their life. It is not advised to remove any teeth since there is a risk of the teeth moving. You should not be concerned about getting them removed if they are not giving you any trouble. If they must be extracted, they may have to be extracted two at a time (all of the top teeth or all of the bottom teeth), or they may have to be out all at once. This is the preferred choice to avoid having to schedule a second visit.

Whatever the state of your teeth, seeing your dentist regularly can help you avoid uncomfortable situations in the future. Maintaining a good dental regimen, as well as a balanced diet, will keep your mouth healthy and pain-free. In addition, brushing, flossing, and using a decent mouthwash regularly will maintain your smile free of illness and discomfort. Most essential, make sure you follow your dentist’s instructions.

Gum Disease Awareness

Gum Disease Awareness Month

Gum Disease Awareness Month 

In celebration of Gum Disease Awareness Month in February – a global public awareness campaign aimed at avoiding gum conditions – our dentist in Lexington KY wants to spread the word about this pernicious disease. This is because if left untreated, it might damage your smile. Fortunately, you can assist in preventing this from happening!

Gum disease is caused by the relentless assaults of bacteria found in tooth plaque. Plaque is the sticky, white coating on your teeth that you may feel before brushing them. Brushing and flossing every day is necessary to eliminate this bacterial film, which otherwise targets tooth enamel and gum tissue to break them down. Plaque that isn’t removed every day develops into tartar, which must be cleaned with specific instruments at your teeth cleaning Lexington KY. 

Factors Contributing to Gum Disease

As you may have guessed, poor oral hygiene is the primary cause of gum disease. Additional variables, however, can hasten the progression of this condition, including:

  • Stress
  • A high sugar diet
  • Chronic cigarette usage
  • Alcohol intake regularly
  • Misaligned teeth (prevents you from cleaning your teeth effectively)
  • Hormone fluctuations
  • Cancer and diabetes
  • Breathing via the mouth, which dries up oral tissues

Gum Disease Symptoms

How can you know if you have gum disease, mainly because the early stages are generally painless? Our Best Dentist Lexington KY says to keep an eye out for the following symptoms:

  • Gums that bleed when you brush and floss
  • Gums that are red, sensitive, or swollen
  • Chronic poor breath or a sour taste in the mouth
  • Tooth sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures
  • Gum tissue tearing away from teeth
  • Loose-feeling teeth
  • Altered bite pattern
  • Loose-fitting partial dentures
  • Pus around teeth and gums
  • Chewing discomfort

Our friend Dr. Green, Parker CO Dentist, explains that all of them are indications that you are suffering from gum disease.

Gum Disease Has Three Stages

Gingivitis

You may notice gum inflammation, swelling, redness, and bleeding during this stage, especially during brushing and flossing. The good news is that because the gum disease hasn’t reached the supporting bone and connective tissue, it can be reversed at this point.

Periodontitis (Gum Disease)

This intermediate stage kills supporting bone and connective tissue permanently. As a result, you may see pockets developing beneath the gum line. Gum pockets cause plaque to accumulate beneath the gum line, necessitating interventive periodontal therapy such as scaling and root planing in conjunction with a more rigorous daily oral hygiene program.

Severe Periodontitis

If no periodontal intervention is performed at stage two, you will most likely be at this terminal stage of the illness. This point will have damaged the connective tissue and bone substance. It causes your teeth to loosen and shift out of position, affecting your bite, speech, and chewing skills. Without periodontal care, the teeth will most likely need to be removed.

Be Proactive in Gum Disease Prevention!

Fortunately, there is a lot you can do to keep gum disease from destroying your smile!

  • Maintain a consistent daily oral hygiene practice that includes brushing and flossing at least twice a day.
  • Maintain all biannual dental appointments and cleanings.
  • Drink water after eating (particularly snacks) to rinse away food particles and mouth detritus.
  • Limit your intake of bacteria-feeding sweets, and when you do indulge, chew sugarless gum to enhance saliva flow, which helps rinse away bacteria.
  • If you still smoke, there is no better time than now to quit. Your gums will appreciate it!

We hope that promoting awareness about this condition in honor of Gum Disease Awareness Month motivates you to be more proactive in safeguarding your dental health. After all, a vivid, attractive smile requires healthy teeth and gums!

How to Choose a Dentist

how to choose a dentist

How to Choose a Dentist 

How to Choose a Dentist in Lexington KY

Do you know how to select a dentist who will meet your and your family’s needs? Who is professional, personable, and provides a wide range of dental treatments and specialties? Below, our dentist in Lexington KY, shares how to choose a dentist for your needs.

What Qualities Should I Look for in a Dentist?

Some people have dental dread and anxiety, while others struggle to find time in their hectic lives. But, in some cases, it’s simply a matter of choosing a dentist who feels like a good fit. Before making a decision, you should be aware of your dental benefits.

Who Takes My Dental Insurance?

If you have dental insurance, the insurance company may decide which dentist office you visit. Our Lexington KY dentist explains that your dental insurance company is the best approach to find out if dental services are covered at a particular dental practice. They can ensure that you have the right plan and utilize your insurance at your preferred dentist.

Request Recommendations from Friends and Family

When you have personal experience to back up a dentist’s office in Lexington KY‘s claims, you’ve discovered a hidden gem. Friends and family can share firsthand experiences and insights about their dentist practice that an online patient review cannot.

Location

Would you prefer a dentist who is closer to your home, school, or workplace? Finding the right dentist near me in the appropriate location isn’t everyone’s top priority, but it’s near the top for many. When determining the best dentist for you, flexible hours are generally a top priority. 

Meet the Dentist and the Staff

Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential dentists, see if you can book a consultation for a meet-and-greet. This lets you get a sense of the office and what to expect. Make a point of asking questions about credibility, processes, and office culture, such as:

  • Was the office clean, neat, and well-organized?
  • Was the personnel pleasant and helpful?
  • Are the services provided affordable and comprehensive?
  • Are the dentists using high-quality technology, such as an intraoral camera? 
  • Was the dentist’s equipment up to date?

These are good questions to think about following a consultation. For more information on choosing a dentist, our team at Park Hills Family Dentistry helps you make an informed, confident decision. If you’re ready to arrange an appointment for an office tour and consultation, you can do so at any time. We can’t wait to meet you!