Our Staff, Your Mouth's Best Friend

Debbie

With over 35-years of experience in all areas of dentistry, our Dental Assistant Debbie is well-prepared to take care of your smile! She is a northern Kentucky native and she decided to get into dentistry because as a child she became so familiar with being a patient! She loves meeting new people and helping patients to have a beautiful and healthy smile.

She says she “finds periodontics interesting and enjoys working with the team here.” Debbie also takes CE to keep up in the field and because she loves learning new things. A lover of the beach, Debbie relishes her summer days but, will busy herself with puzzles, crocheting or reading if she must be stuck inside.

Thanks for getting to know us! Be sure to say hello to Debbie next time you stop at Perio-Dental Care!

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D. 
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

How Bad is Tobacco for Oral Health?

Run a Smile Away from Tobacco!

If you are a tobacco user (i.e. chewing, cigarettes, cigars, etc.), it is likely no news to you that tobacco can lead to serious physical and oral health problems. That being said; be sure to be screened for oral cancer at least every six months. It is vital that you address this type of issue early on! In addition to concerns about cancer, smoking is a big factor in gum disease, tooth loss, and other problems. Chewing tobacco also may cause damage to oral tissues as well as gum disease and tooth loss. Even e-cigarettes can cause similar problems with the mouth simply because of the nicotine they contain. From my view as a dentist, the bottom line is that smoking will make it difficult to keep your teeth for your lifetime.

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Our Dental Staff, Your Mouth’s Best Friends

Jan Mullikin

Originally from the northern Kentucky area, Jan Mullikin is the smile you see when you first walk into Perio-Implant Care. A tremendous help, she has been with us almost two years (this November will be her Perio-anniversary)! Jan is married with two children and after retiring from her last job, she simply had to keep working -- we’re glad she found us!

She says she “enjoys being with the patients to give post treatment instructions, and assisting during post-treatment follow ups. It’s always a pleasure to meet the new patients.” When she isn’t greeting you at the office, Jan likes to plan her next vacation to Hawaii. If she isn’t packing her bags for the Islands, you might find her crocheting or piecing her way through a new jigsaw puzzle as she is a pro at these hobbies!

Thanks for getting to know us! Be sure to say hello to Jan Mullikin next time you stop at Perio-Implant Care (she surely wouldn’t mind if you brought her some Kona Coffee for receptionist appreciation day)!

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Our Dental Staff, Your Mouth’s Best Friends: Tina

Tina has been working with Dr. Parmley almost 4 years as a Registered Dental Hygienist.

She is originally from northern Kentucky and has 3 children. She knew early on that she wanted to work in the dental field because she had to be in the dental chair so often when she was a young! Tina really enjoys patient care and education, delighting in being a part of the Perio Dental team. 
When she is away from the office, Tina dreams about Florida—Key West is a treasured vacation spot. She loves all animals and enjoys hiking, biking, swimming and canoeing. Also, Tina is so good with her hands that if she isn't working on your teeth she might be working on her latest knitting project or cross-stitch (while listening to “Ain't No Mountain High Enough” of course).

Thanks for getting to know us! Be sure to say hello to Tina next time you stop at Perio Dental Care!

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D. 
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618

859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Dentists and Candy and Cavities, Oh My!

Think twice before you devour that candy!

Are you snacking on some Sour Patch Kids right now? Maybe munching on a Mr. Goodbar? Have you ever wondered what those temptingly tasty treats might be doing to your teeth? The truth is, all of the sugar in candy wreaks havoc on your oral health. The worst types are sticky candy or any kind that stays in the mouth for long periods of time (I’m looking at you Jolly Ranchers). So, if you are having a craving for candy, something sugar-free is best and if you can’t brush immediately be sure to rinse your mouth several times with water! Even dentists have to satisfy that sweet tooth once in a while (in fact, I LOVE chocolate). 


Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D. 
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618

859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

The Myth of Toothpaste

Is Toothpaste Actually Necessary? 

For most of us, toothpaste is a routine part of brushing our teeth. However, it is important to know that toothpaste isn't really vital to your oral health. What is more important is the actual act of brushing! Bacterial deposits are the cause of most dental disease and, the most effective way to remove bacterial deposits is with a toothbrush and floss or interproximal brush. So, what actually removes the bacteria is the brushing and flossing action.

Now, when choosing toothpaste, don’t be confused by the countless brands; simply grab one that tastes good so that you actually like to brush! I recommend you don’t spend too much money either.  Also, avoid any toothpaste that is too abrasive—let your toothbrush do the work. Finally, be sure to brush and floss regularly and properly. Because for great oral care, the toothpaste you choose to use may not really matter, but whether or not you’re brushing certainly does!

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

A Post about Tooth Pain

Don’t Ignore Your Toothache!

Most commonly we treat gum abscesses that cause tooth pain. However, other common causes for a hurting teeth include a decaying tooth, fractured tooth, and gum disease. If you are experiencing tooth pain let us know as soon as possible so we can treat your pain and resolve what is causing you discomfort. If you have tooth pain, avoid hot or cold drinks and foods, avoid sugar, and be sure to clean your mouth carefully and completely.

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112
http://www.perioimplantcare.com/

Keep Your Dentist in the Know!

9 Things to Mention to your Dentist Each Visit

Before the exam:

1. Any changes in your health history. Aches? Pains? The flu? Tell your dentist!
2. Any new medications (including over the counter). If you’ve been using a new prescription or just a lot of Advil, let us know!
3. Any changes in your mouth. For instance, if your gums have been bleeding it helps for us to be informed so we can address a possibly serious issue. 

During the exam:

1. Any lesions that have developed.
2. Any area of pain or discomfort. We try our best to be gentle with our work but be sure to enlighten us about anywhere that is especially sensitive!
3. Any concerns you have about your mouth.  Tell us about any concerns you might have so we can address them swiftly!

After the exam:

1. Confirm your next visit to our dental practice. We enjoy keeping your pearly whites healthy so, be sure to set up your next appointment for your convenience.
2. Concerns about appearance. Don’t be afraid to ask us about the appearance of your teeth. We want you to be comfortable with your smile!
3. Concerns about losing teeth. Feel a loose tooth? Let us know so we can plan a solution with you.

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Dr. Parmley’s Take on Brushing Your Teeth

Between a Tooth and A Soft Place

Did you know bacteria forms on the teeth every 24 hours? That is why it is important to brush at least once a day. Regular tooth brushing will help keep your teeth healthy, your implants in good shape and it will help to prevent gum disease. The ADA recommends brushing at least twice every day. It is important to be brushing with a toothbrush that is in good shape so be sure to replace yours any time you notice it is damaged or worn out (e.g. bristles out of shape or discoloration). I would also recommend that when you do grab a new toothbrush; get one that is not hard-bristled. A soft-bristle toothbrush will do less damage to the structures in the mouth. The importance of brushing your teeth can not be overstated so, be sure to follow these guidelines to stay on the path to a happy smile!

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112
http://www.perioimplantcare.com/

Misconceptions at the Dentist Office

3 Myths About Oral Health

1. Toothpaste is necessary to clean your teeth.
   Not true. What is necessary is thoroughly brushing your teeth. Although a minty-fresh mouth feels fantastic, the true objective of brushing is to dislodge and remove plaque from your teeth! Read my recent post on toothpaste here.
2. Mouthwash is necessary to keep your mouth healthy.
   Not true! In fact, although mouthwash may offer some modest benefits, it is not necessary for your overall dental health.
3. You need to brush after every meal.
   Not true! Acids from meals, snacks, or beverages certainly cause erosion to enamel and dentin (the layer beneath your enamel) but, brushing too soon after meals can actually speed up the erosion process! So be sure to let at least 30 minutes elapse before brushing after meals.

Give us a call today for further questions about your oral health!

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112


Source: http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/05/21/really-never-brush-your-teeth-immediately-after-a-meal/?_r=0

Does Chewing Gum Help or Hurt Oral Health?

Gum: To Chew or Not to Chew
In reality, any sugar in your mouth for a long period of time is bad news for your long term oral health. That your implants are too, requiring that you be cautious about what you are chewing. Stay away from too much sugary gum, especially before an appointment at our dental office, And if you must satisfy your urge to chew, look for a sugarless gum that has additional ingredients made for preventing cavities.
means most chewing gum is going to do some damage to your beautiful smile. However, there are some sugarless chewing gums that also have ingredients designed to help prevent cavities; these can be a great alternative to the very sugary bubble-gums out there. The ADA even awards its approval to certain gums that pass specific tests proving how they improve oral health. Your teeth are naturally delicate and

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Soda: Enamel’s Worst Enemy!

Soft Drinks are No Good For Good Teeth

The sugar and acid in soda attach to the tooth and cause decay and loss of tooth structure! Soda is so dangerous for your teeth that having it other than at meal-time is likely cause for concern. However, if you really want a cold soda, be sure to have it with a meal and if at all possible have diet instead of regular. If you want a great substitute try carbonated water, perhaps with some lemon. They are comparable in price (if not cheaper) and even the flavored waters have considerably less sugar than regular soda! With this in mind, I have almost completely eliminated sodas from my diet.

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Observer Testimony

It was a pleasure observing Tina.  She was friendly, professional, and she genuinely cared about every patient.  She taught me about different procedures, and was such a joy to be around.  

-M. Fairfield (right)

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D. 
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

My Experience at Perio-Implant Care

This was an amazing experience and I am very grateful for being allowed to observe.  The staff was very helpful and I appreciate my time observing in the office.  I had a great time and learned a lot! Thanks so much! -Elizabeth P. (right)

Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D. 
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

What Can Be Done About Periodontal Disease?

 What can be done

The upper level of infection in the pockets around your teeth can be treated by beginning with a daily home care program including careful tooth brushing and cleaning between the teeth to remove bacteria from under the gum margins.
This is followed by a thorough cleaning of the tooth roots and any gum pockets.  The bacteria and calculus are removed and tooth roots smoothed to eliminate crevices that can harbor bacteria.  Sometimes, no further treatment is necessary to keep periodontal disease under control.

Postponing Periodontal Care May Lead to Other Forms of Treatment 

Other forms of treatment may be necessary for those patients who postpone periodontal care until the disease has progressed to a more advanced state.  This treatment reduces the gum pockets and helps the gums reattach to the teeth.


If your infection has spread into the bone that supports your teeth, and is below the level that can be reached in "Upper Level Infection Removal", then a flap surgical procedure or a laser periodontal procedure must be performed to retract the gums and remove the lower level infection. This will help arrest the infection and inflammation which would likely lead to tooth loss if untreated.
Usually, the biting surfaces of the teeth are adjusted to evenly distribute the chewing pressures throughout the mouth.
Appropriate treatment along with follow-up care by you and your family dentist can help prevent recurrence of the disease.

See video of laser periodontal procedure:

 

Be sure to read our next blog about the various periodontal procedures!

 Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Basic Periodontal Treatment

 Periodontal Disease is a Progressive Ailment

This week we will begin discussing periodontal disease and basic treatments. 
Commonly known as pyorrhea, periodontal disease is a progressive ailment suffered to some extent by nearly 90% of all people over 30.

How Periodontal Disease Begins

 Periodontal disease begins when bacteria and their products invade the gum tissue surrounding the teeth.  Once this bacterial invasion takes hold, the gums become puffy, bleed easily, and gradually lose their “grip” on the teeth they are supposed to protect.
Pockets form where the gum loses its grip.  These pockets allow more bacteria to lodge under the gum line below the reach of a toothbrush.  Some of the bacteria produce toxins that cause an attack on the bone which supports the teeth. 

Teeth May Become Loose 

Without treatment, teeth may become loose and may need to be removed.
Because this destruction usually occurs beneath the gum line, the gum tissue may appear normal.  This explains why many people discover too late that they have the disease.  Only a thorough periodontal examination can reveal if hidden disease is present. Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that gets under the gums and into the bone around your teeth, causing inflammation. Periodontal inflammation leads to tooth loss and may contribute to other medical conditions.

The Periodontal Infection Must Be Removed 

The periodontal infection must be removed and the area given a chance to heal. There are generally two levels for this condition - Upper Level Infection and Lower Level Infection.

Enjoy Reading Our Next Blog

To find out what can be done about about periodontal disease be sure to read our next blog post, "What Can Be Done About Periodontal Disease".

In the meantime, watch the video for more information about periodontal disease

 Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Lindsey's Wonderful Experience at Dr.Parmley's Office

(Left)Hygienist Tina &  Lindsey (Right)

Lindsey's Testimonial:

My Experience at Dr.Parmley’s office was absolutely wonderful. The staff was extremely upbeat and friendly. I shadowed Tina and she was an absolute joy to shadow; very helpful and friendly. Shadowing here makes me look forward to beginning my career in the field even more than I did before.

Thanks so much for the experience. I really enjoyed myself.

-Lindsey

 Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112

Chelsea's Great Experience at Dr.Parmley's Office

(Left)Hygienist Tina & Chelsea (Right)

 

Chelsea's Testimonial:

Dr. Parmley’s office was a great experience! I observed Tina; she is a great teacher and explained things very well. Dental Hygiene seems like a great career. I am very excited to get started!

Thanks,

Chelsea

 Lloyd E. Parmley, D.M.D.
A Practice Limited to Periodontics • Implants • Gum Diseases
6909 Burlington Pike, Suite B • Florence, KY 41042-1618
859-371-6543 • 800-432-6543 • Fax 859-282-3112