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.

Deep Dental Cleanings: Should I Get One?

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Deep Dental Cleanings: Should I Get One?  

Deep Dental Cleanings: Should I Get One? 

A deep dental cleaning, also known as gum therapy, is a treatment that cleans between the gums and teeth all the way down to the roots. The hygienist or dentist will clean the tooth, gum line, and sides of the teeth, just like a routine cleaning. Additionally, tartar below the gum line to the root of the tooth is removed.

What is a Deep Cleaning?

It is more thorough than a conventional cleaning and is intended to cure and prevent gum disease from worsening. In this article, our dentist in Lexington, KY, discusses deep dental cleanings and if you should get one. 

Hygiene and Periodontal Health

Because your mouth is full of bacteria and plaque, it’s recommended that you brush twice a day and floss daily. Routine checkups and cleanings aid in the removal of plaque that accumulates on your teeth on a daily basis. The majority of the plaque is found along the gum line, which most of us overlook when brushing. Plaque hardens to tartar, which your dental hygienist will remove during routine cleanings.

If you don’t brush your teeth on a regular basis, or if you are at risk for gum disease, your gums may develop gingivitis. Symptom so of gingivitis includes red, swollen gums that bleed easily when touched. If left untreated, this can progress to periodontal disease, a more severe stage of gingivitis. Dr. Kim urges you to treat your gingivitis before it develops into tooth loss.

Gum Disease

Suspect you have gum disease? Visit our dental office in Lexington, KY, for an evaluation. To determine if there is an infection, we will take dental x-rays and assess the depth of the pockets. This is standard practice. You’ve probably heard your hygienist readout numbers while evaluating each tooth. 

Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Teeth Cleaning

Comparing routine teeth cleaning to a deep teeth cleaning is akin to comparing apples and oranges, says our friend Dr. O’Grady, a dentist in Denver, CO. He explains that the two treatments accomplish very different tasks. A regular cleaning’s purpose is preventative maintenance, whereas a deep teeth cleaning’s purpose is to halt periodontal disease.

Do I Need a Deep Cleaning?

Only your dentist or dental hygienist can be certain. If your dentist finds considerable pockets—those four mms or larger—you are at risk for (or in the early stages of) periodontal disease. This qualifies you for a deep cleaning. A dental deep cleaning visit will stop the periodontal disease from getting worse. Without treatment, the bacteria that caused your gum pockets will continue to cause plaque, tartar, and bone loss.

You are not alone if you have been informed that you need a deep cleaning at the dentist. Gum disease is one of the most common dental problems today. Luckily, gum disease or periodontal disease is preventable. As mentioned above, it’s crucial that you follow a good oral hygiene regimen and visit your dentist every six months. 

Contact Dentist in Lexington, KY

Need a deep cleaning? Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry! Our team of professionals will take good care of you and your little ones. Our dental office is located in Lexington, KY. We offer a wide range of dental services. Dr. Kim and Dr. Oberst look forward to meeting you soon!

Overcoming Dental Anxiety

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Overcoming Dental Anxiety 

Overcoming Dental Anxiety 

Many patients dread going to the dentist for a teeth cleaning or dental service. If going to the dentist makes you nervous, you are not alone. Many people have dental anxiety or fear the dentist. Some people even miss their dental appointments because of this feeling. This directly affects their oral health. If you’ve been skipping your dental appointments because of this, read the article below where Dr. Jin shares tips for overcoming dental anxiety. 

Ways to Deal With Dental Anxiety 

Acknowledge Your Dentophobia

Unfortunately, dental anxiety won’t go away on its own. The first step to fixing the problem is addressing it head-on. Identifying and implementing tactics to help you handle it can be more difficult. If you’re afraid of the dentist, consider why. Is it the needles, drills, or other instruments, the cramped quarters, or the possibility of pain? Did you have a bad experience? If you can identify the source of the problem, you can find a way to fix it. 

Choose The Right Dentist

Many dentists, like Dr. Jin or Dr. Olbert, make patient safety and comfort their top priority. Most dental offices work hard to build welcoming and relaxing environments. Inform your dentist in Lexington, KY, about any dental anxiety you might be experiencing. They will help make sure you are comfortable during your entire visit. Our friend Dr. Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, highly recommends looking at online reviews to see if you, in fact, are going to the best dentist in town.

Ask Questions

Uncertainty can cause anxiety. Rather than wondering what’s happening during your dental services, ask questions, so you know what to expect. Inquire with your dentist in Lexington, KY, about what will happen, how it will feel, and what to expect after the operation. Trust us when we say you’ll feel much better if you ask your dentist to explain every step during your visit.

Keep Busy

Keeping the mind busy with other items allows anxiety to take over for a shorter period of time. Bring a friend to keep you company. Listen to podcasts or music while you sit in the chair. Wear earplugs if the whine of dental drills bothers you. Is there a problem with pain? Consult your dentist on using an adequate numbing agent. If you are uncomfortable, do not be afraid to speak up. Our Park Hills Family Dentistry team is here to make you feel right at home. 

Sleep Dentistry 

One of our solutions to overcoming dental anxiety is providing patients with sleep dentistry options. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, has been used to relieve patient anxiety and pain. Those who inhale the gas stay conscious and aware. Simply put, they are more comfortable and less susceptible to pain. Nitrous oxide dentistry is a simple and inexpensive way to calm nerves and increase relaxation during dental visits. 

Ask How We Can Help Dental Anxiety

Park Hills Family Dentistry provides the best dental services in Lexington, KY. From the moment you walk in the door to the moment you leave, we are here to serve you and your family. If you need help overcoming dental anxiety, contact our dental office today. We can’t wait to see you!

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

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What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning 

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

Regardless of how meticulous your oral hygiene regimen is, every one needs a professional dental cleaning. These regular dental visits to your dentist in Lexington, KY, will help you avoid dental problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral cancer. You may be wondering what to expect during a dental cleaning at Park Hills Family Dentistry. Dr. Kim shares more in the blog below.

When Should I Get a Dental Cleaning?

Many patients underestimate the power of professional dental cleanings. Over time, tartar and plaque buildup causes teeth to stain and cavities to develop. When you see us for a professional teeth cleaning, our hygienists will remove the tartar. This can only be done by a professional, which is why many Lexington dentists recommend two dental cleanings per year. Here’s a closer look at what to expect during a dental cleaning with our team.

What Do You Do Before a Dental Cleaning?

A dental cleaning is a simple procedure that requires little preparation. Make sure you’re practicing good oral hygiene on a daily basis. Then, before your visit with Dr. Kim, brush your teeth. Your hygienist can clean more thoroughly, but a simple brush helps remove debris and frees up your time for more thorough cleaning. If you have dental anxiety, this is a good way to reduce the amount of time spent in the chair. Do you have any questions or concerns? Write them down so that you can ask them at your appointment.

Your Dental Cleaning

After checking in at the front desk with one of our team members, your hygienist will walk you to one of the rooms. The hygienist will give you an apron or bib to wear to protect your clothes from stains. One of the first things they do is look at your gum lines. You will be asked a few questions about any problems or sensitive areas. Next, your hygienist will start your cleaning. At this time, x-rays will be taken if necessary. You won’t have to leave the room if your dentist has a handheld x-ray device from Digital Doc. 

For the first part of your cleaning, your hygienist will gently scrape tartar and plaque off your teeth. If you have a lot built-up, then this part will take longer than the polishing. Then, each tooth will be polished, followed by flossing. This can also eliminate surface stains, allowing your smile to shine brighter. If you are ever dissatisfied with the color of your teeth, you should inquire about teeth whitening.

The Assessment

Once your cleaning portion is complete, Dr. Kim will come in for a full-mouth evaluation. Dentists used to only use a metal probe and an angled mirror, but now we use a variety of tools. The target is the same: to detect any signs of tooth decay. Your dentist will examine your gums for problems such as deep pockets, redness, and inflammation. 

Your dental professional will also examine your upper and lower jaw for signs of temporomandibular joint disorder. She will examine the soft tissues in your mouth, palate, lymph glands, and neck for signs of oral cancer. During this time, Dr. Kim will address any concerns she may have. This is also the time for patients to address any questions or concerns they have. 

Dental Anxiety

Dental cleanings are quick and easy! They’re an important part of maintaining a happy and healthy smile. Understanding what teeth cleaning entails may alleviate any concern you may have about scheduling your next appointment. However, if you are still nervous, ask about our sedation dentistry options. Sedation dentistry is also known as sleep dentistry, but it does not put you to sleep. Instead, you are awake and aware of all that is going on around you. You can hear and respond to questions and instructions as well. However, it makes you feel less anxious and worried about the treatment.

Sedation dentistry may also help with other issues that can make a dental visit uncomfortable. It can make sitting in the dental chair more relaxed. Please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry if you’re in need of a dental cleaning or other dental services in Lexington, KY. 

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

Do I Need a Root Canal - Lexington KY

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy? 

Do I Need Root Canal Therapy?

A root canal is a procedure used to save a patient’s natural tooth when there are no other options other than an extraction. When a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, a root canal is the last resort. This is the process of completely cleaning the infected tooth and decay all the way down to the tooth’s root. Here, Dr. Kim helps us celebrate Root Canal Awareness Week! Read below to discover how this procedure works and ask yourself, “Do I need root canal therapy?” 

101 On Tooth Decay

You may be familiar with the term cavities. Many patients experience cavities at some point in their life. When you eat, some bacteria in your mouth begin to break down your food for digestion. Plaque is formed when bacteria in your mouth are combined with sugar in your food. Plaque is a sticky, clear substance that forms on the surface of your teeth. Because plaque is acidic, it erodes tooth enamel over time when it sits on your teeth. The teeth are extremely tough, but they will eventually wear away over time. 

Root Canal Therapy

The American Dental Association suggests visiting your dental office at least twice a year for comprehensive exams and cleanings. If you do this, we will detect decay when it is very small and will not cause internal infections. However, severe tooth decay must be removed completely, or you will lose your entire tooth. That’s when we’d perform a root canal procedure. 

Do You Have Any of These Symptoms?

When a tooth requires a root canal, there are some signs and symptoms to look out for. Take note if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Sharp pains or tooth sensitivity 
  • Consistent throbbing or burning pain in a tooth or other area of your mouth
  • Swelling and tenderness in the surrounding gums
  • A tooth abscess or discoloration
  • Sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages

These are all symptoms of tooth decay. When decay is not the issue, you are most likely dealing with an infected tooth. In either case, you may require a root canal. Root canal therapy is required when:

  • Deep cavities pierce the pulp, resulting in bacterial infections of exposed pulp.
  • Internal tooth injuries exist that are not visible on the surface.
  • Cracks, major chips, and other breaks can occur in the tooth structure.

How Root Canal Therapy Works

In the case of cavities, the decayed area is removed and filled with composite material. However, to avoid a dead tooth, the infected tooth structure must be cleared out. When the pulp (the center nerve part of the tooth) becomes infected or is exposed due to injury, patients will undoubtedly require a root canal. Bacteria can enter and destroy the rest of the tooth, and infection can spread to your bloodstream, causing severe illness. That is why you should never ignore tooth pain, says Dr. Kim.

During root canal therapy, Dr. Kim will use dental tools to open up the top of your tooth during your procedure. Dr. Kim will then work meticulously to remove all decayed and infected parts of your tooth. This is the time-consuming part because she has to clean all the way down to the tooth’s roots. If an infection is not removed, the tooth will continue to decay. Our friends at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry, a dentist in Colorado Springs, point out that an untreated tooth will eventually die. Small root canal brushes can be used to remove decay from small tooth roots. Then, the entire tooth is then filled with composite material to preserve the tooth’s structure, and the top is sealed off. A root canal removes everything from the tooth except the healthy pulp that remains.

Restorative Dentistry

Root canal therapy is usually the last option dental professionals will consider before extracting a tooth. If you choose a root canal procedure, you can keep a tooth healthy for many years and keep your natural tooth. It is less expensive for you than having a tooth extracted and receiving a dental implant and dental crown. In many cases, a root canal saves your tooth and allows you to heal within a few days. If you are experiencing tooth pain or require a dental exam, please contact Park Hills Family Dentistry.

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

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Cosmetic Dentistry Options  

Cosmetic Dentistry Options

There are so many wonderful cosmetic dentistry options to choose from when you visit Park Hills Family Dentistry. Our team can help transform almost any smile into their dream smile. However, not every treatment is for everyone. Some have more requirements than others. Read the article below to learn more about cosmetic dentistry options.

Teeth Whitening

Also known as “teeth bleaching,” this procedure can brighten and whiten your teeth to remove discoloration and/or staining. It can be done in the dental office or at home. It’s important to see your dentist in Lexington, KY, for a consultation before undergoing any treatment. Otherwise, you risk damaging your enamel. You can achieve up to 10 shades whiter when you choose professional teeth whitening. 

Lumineers

Lumineers are made of porcelain or composite material that covers your natural teeth. They are an alternative to dental veneers and are custom-made and cemented to the front side of the tooth. A lumineer can be used to treat dental conditions such as a slightly crooked tooth, discolored teeth, chipped teeth, or even gaps between the teeth. Our friend, Dr. Moghadam, a cosmetic dentist in Easton, PA, agrees that lumineers can truly enhance your smile by giving you new and improved confidence.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a metal device used to replace missing teeth. The device is typically made of titanium and is surgically implanted into the jawbone where the tooth is missing. A dental implant is designed to act as the tooth root and can support artificial teeth such as a crown, bridge, or denture. Dental implants aren’t for everyone. Patients need substantial jaw bone density to secure the dental implant. Ask Dr. Kim if dental implants are an option for you.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are custom-made to fit over your entire tooth. They are typically made of acrylic or porcelain that has been fused to metal to withstand biting pressure. Crowns can be used in cosmetic dentistry to treat teeth that are poorly shaped, badly decayed, broken, chipped, or have had large fillings, as well as to cover gaps between teeth. This treatment is an affordable way to improve your smile. 

Clear Aligners

A beautiful, cohesive smile is something many of us aim to achieve. If you have misaligned teeth, consider getting clear aligners. With Clear Aligners, you can straighten your teeth in a more discrete way. Yes, you won’t have to deal with metal wires or brackets. Clear aligners offer so many amazing benefits. Ask Dr. Kim if this orthodontic treatment is for you. 

As you can see, there are so many wonderful cosmetic dentistry options to choose from. Decide which treatment is best for you and your smile goals. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry today for a consultation with Dr. Kim and her team!

What Do Bleeding Gums Mean?

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What Do Bleeding Gums Mean? 

What Do Bleeding Gums Mean?

Ever noticed a bit of blood after brushing your teeth? What about after flossing? Gums may bleed for a few reasons, so what do bleeding gums mean? Generally, this is a sign of a few dental problems, such as gum disease. Apart from severe gum disease, there are ten other explanations why gums bleed, as well as how to avoid bleeding gums before they become a bigger problem. So, what do bleeding gums mean? In the article below, Dr. Jinyoung Kim shares exactly why your gums are bleeding.

Gingivitis

As we mentioned above, bleeding gums usually indicates the start of gum disease. The first stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Tender and swollen gums, as well as bleeding gums during brushing and flossing, are typical symptoms. When plaque along the gum line isn’t properly removed, gingivitis develops. This sticky plaque attracts a wide variety of bacteria, which invade the gums and cause bleeding and sensitivity. Gingivitis may be prevented and reversed at this point before it progresses to more severe gum disease. To treat gingivitis, patients need to thoroughly brush and floss their teeth daily and see their dentist in Lexington, KY. 

Medications

Blood-thinning medicine is another potential source of bleeding gums. Blood thinners minimize the tendency of the blood to clot, making it easier to bleed, even at the gumline. Tell your dentist about any new drugs every time you see her. This aids the dentist in determining what is causing the bleeding gums and other oral issues. To help minimize or avoid gum bleeding caused by medication, your dentist can prescribe a different oral care routine.

Over Flossing

If your gums bleed after flossing for the first time, it’s possible that the flossing is to blame. You could experience slight gum bleeding if you skipped a few days of flossing or increased your flossing frequency per week. After a couple of flossing sessions, your gum bleeding will likely stop on its own, says our friend Dr. O’Grady, a dentist in Denver, CO. We recommend visiting your dentist if your gums bleed excessively or every time you floss.

New Toothbrush

Gum bleeding may also be caused by a fresh toothbrush. When you turn from soft to hard bristles, your gums can bleed. This is your body’s way of telling you to slow down. Most dentists advise using a soft-bristled toothbrush since it is gentler on the gums. If your bristles are hard, consider switching. Dr. Kim says that the bleeding should subside after a few brushes with your new soft-bristled toothbrush. 

Pregnancy Gingivitis

Yeah, there is such a thing. Increased hormones cause increased blood flow to your gums during pregnancy, making them more vulnerable to plaque and bacteria. As a result, brushing also results in tender gums and gum bleeding. You may be surprised to learn that pregnancy increases the chances of gingivitis. Patients can expect gingivitis to subside after giving birth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Even a slight change in your oral hygiene can cause your gums to bleed. Stay adamant about brushing at least twice a day, morning and night, for two minutes. If you can, brush after each meal. Don’t forget to floss! Like we’ve mentioned before, you can stop gingivitis from getting worse and prevent it with good habits. Some of the following lifestyle habits directly affect your oral health. 

Poor Nutrition

Good nutrition is a great way to live a long and healthy life. Some packaged food additives irritate gums and cause slight gum bleeding. Instead, use better options. Include fruits and vegetables into your diet, as well as calcium, vitamins C and D, and magnesium. Make sure you’re getting your reaching your daily nutrients.

Stress

Living in a constant state of anxiety weakens the immune system, making it more difficult to avoid a variety of problems, such as gum disease. Inflammation of the blood vessels is also a product of stress. This causes soft tissues in your mouth to break down, delaying the healing of bleeding gums even further. Whenever possible, try to reduce the stress levels. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress.

Smoking

One of the worst things you can do to your teeth is smoke. In recent years, smoking and vaping have become more popular. This habit has a direct effect on your oral health and can create issues like tooth sensitivity, gum disease, and tooth loss. Quit the use of tobacco before it’s too late.

When dental problems arise, it’s important to see a professional. If you’re experiencing gum disease, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry. Our Park Hills Family Dentistry team is more than happy to get your oral health back on track with our professional dental cleanings. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Affordable Smile Makeover Options

affordable smile makeover options Lexington KY

Affordable Smile Makeover Options 

Affordable Smile Makeover Options

A beautiful smile gives you the confidence to conquer your day. Unfortunately, not all of us are born with a perfect smile. Our dental office offers several cosmetic dentistry treatments. You no longer have to feel embarrassed to show your smile thanks to the following affordable smile makeover options. If you’re looking for a dentist in the Lexington, KY area, contact Park Hills Family Dentistry for a consultation today!

Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most cost-effective and low-commitment ways to improve your smile. When you get professional teeth whitening, you preserve your tooth enamel and ensure that your smile stays bright and beautiful. This cosmetic dental treatment can make a big difference in the overall look of your smile. If you’re thinking about getting your teeth whitened, weigh the advantages of professional teeth whitening vs. take-home teeth whitening treatments. Poorly applied teeth whitening treatments can damage your enamel, making your teeth sensitive. Ask Dr. Jinyoung Kim which teeth whitening treatment is best for your smile.

Lumineers

Lumineers are a type of dental veneer, that fit over your teeth, giving you a more uniform, whiter smile. Traditional veneers require that each tooth be prepped to receive the veneer. This procedure is irreversible. Lumineers allow you to enhance your smile without affecting your tooth’s structure. At Park Hills Family Dentistry, we offer lumineers for patients looking to make a big change in the look and feel of their smiles.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is often the best choice when searching for a dentist in Lexington to fully restore missing teeth or teeth in extremely poor condition. This cosmetic dentistry procedure is more expensive than teeth whitening and lumineers, but it is a long-lasting treatment. Furthermore, our friend Dr. Cody Boals, a dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, says that dental implants are an excellent smile makeover option because they last from 10-20 years. So, how do dental implants work? During the dental implant placement, your dentist will place a metal rod into your jawbone as an anchor for your new replacement tooth. Don’t worry. It’s not as invasive as it seems. Dental implants are actually one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for some or all missing teeth.

Ask your dentist if any of these affordable smile makeover options are right for you. Contact Park Hills Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation! Our office also provides restorative dentistry and general dentistry for patients in Lexington, KY. We can’t wait to enhance your smile!