At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, we proudly offer both types of veneers. Dr. Matthew Bridges will explain your options and help you choose the right type for your cosmetic goals and current dental health. Dr. Bridges has completed training in Predictable Esthetics and is a proud member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. With his care and expertise, you will enjoy beautiful results, no matter which type of veneers you choose. 

To learn more or to book an appointment, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today.

What are porcelain veneers? 

Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin shells of porcelain, which will be attached to the front of your teeth. To place these veneers, Dr. Bridges will first prep your teeth by removing a thin layer of enamel. He will take impressions, and the lab will use these models to create your veneers. When they are finished, the dentist will etch your teeth and apply the porcelain with tooth-colored composite.

What are composite veneers?

Composite veneers are sometimes called tooth bonding. Rather than creating veneers off-site, Dr. Bridges will apply composite directly to your teeth, using the material to conceal flaws and reshape your teeth. When he is finished, he will harden the material with a special light.

The Advantages of Porcelain 

The biggest advantage of porcelain veneers is that they are the more realistic of the two options. Porcelain has a slight translucence, which gives it a natural sheen to mimic tooth enamel. Composite resin will still match the color of your smile, but it will not have the same sparkle.

Porcelain veneers are also quite durable. Studies show a 91% survival rate over a period of 20 years. In contrast, bonding usually lasts between 3 and 10 years.

The Advantages of Composite

A big advantage of composite is that bonding is considered reversible. Because your dentist won’t need to prep your teeth, there is no functional need to replace the veneer if it is damaged or comes off. (Of course, you may still choose to do so for cosmetic reasons.)

Another benefit of composite is that it usually costs less than porcelain. Since cosmetic treatment is not usually covered by insurance, this may be a big factor in your decision. At the same time, we also offer both in-house and third-party financing, so you shouldn’t have to let cost stand in the way of the smile you deserve.

Schedule a Cosmetic Consultation 

To learn more about the two different types of veneers and to find out which type may be right for you, contact our office.

Reach Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or call 580-255-4880.

The post Choosing between Porcelain and Composite Veneers  appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

For a safe and effective teeth whitening experience, call Dr. Matthew Bridges in Duncan, OK, today at 580.255.4880.

Myth 1: Whitening Toothpaste Alone Can Transform Your Smile

Reality: While whitening toothpaste may help remove surface stains, it is not a comprehensive solution for achieving a significantly whiter smile. These toothpaste products typically contain mild abrasives and chemicals designed to polish teeth, but they may not address deeper stains or discoloration. Professional teeth whitening treatments or at-home kits with peroxide-based agents are more effective for noticeable results.

Myth 2: DIY Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Mixtures Are Safe and Effective

Reality: Baking soda and lemon juice are often touted as natural whitening agents, but using them together can be abrasive and harmful to tooth enamel. Baking soda is abrasive on its own, and the acidity of lemon juice can erode enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and other dental issues. It’s crucial to opt for safe and proven methods for teeth whitening to avoid unintended consequences.

Myth 3: All Whitening Kits Are Created Equal

Reality: The market is flooded with various at-home teeth whitening kits, but not all of them are equally effective or safe. Some products may lack the necessary concentration of whitening agents, leading to subpar results, while others might be too harsh and cause sensitivity. It’s essential to choose reputable brands or consult with a dentist for guidance on selecting the right teeth whitening kit for individual needs.

Myth 4: Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments Harm Tooth Enamel

Reality: Professional whitening treatments, when performed by trained dental professionals, are generally safe and do not harm tooth enamel. The concentration of whitening agents used in these treatments is carefully regulated to ensure efficacy without compromising dental health. It’s crucial to follow the dentist’s instructions and avoid overusing at-home whitening products to prevent potential enamel damage.

Myth 5: Teeth Whitening Results Are Permanent

Reality: While professional whitening can produce significant and long-lasting results, it is not a permanent solution. The longevity of whitening effects varies from person to person and is influenced by factors such as diet, oral hygiene practices, and lifestyle choices. Touch-up treatments or maintaining good oral care habits can extend the brightness of the smile.

Myth 6: Whitening Causes Irreversible Sensitivity

Reality: Temporary tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening, but it is not typically irreversible. Sensitivity usually subsides within a few days to a week after the whitening treatment. Using desensitizing toothpaste and following post-whitening care instructions can help alleviate sensitivity and make the overall experience more comfortable.

Myth 7: Anyone Can Achieve Hollywood-White Teeth

Reality: The natural color of teeth varies among individuals, and achieving Hollywood-white teeth may not be realistic or suitable for everyone. Factors such as genetics, age, and the original color of teeth play a role in the outcome of whitening treatments. Setting realistic expectations and discussing goals with a dentist can help individuals achieve a brighter, but still natural-looking, smile.

Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK

By debunking these common myths, you can navigate the plethora of information available and choose safe, effective methods for achieving a brighter, healthier smile. Consulting with our trusted and compassionate dentist before starting any teeth whitening regimen ensures personalized guidance and optimal results while preserving overall dental well-being. Call us today to schedule your initial consultation!

The post Debunking Teeth Whitening Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Dr. Matthew Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center are not only committed to giving you a bright and healthy smile. At our Duncan, OK, practice, we also believe in the importance of patient education. That’s why we are always ready to answer your questions and to make sure you feel completely comfortable with your care. At your consultation, we can explain the different types of teeth whitening offered and help you choose the right one for your goals. 

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today to schedule an appointment. 

How long does teeth whitening last?

Though teeth whitening results can be dramatic, they are not permanent. You will enjoy longer-lasting results if you select professional whitening, rather than toothpastes, strips, or other over-the-counter methods. With professional treatment, results typically last between six months and three years, depending on your oral health and lifestyle. 

How can I prolong my whitening results? 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to fight tooth decay, as well as to prolong whitening results. Diet is also important. Coffee, red wine, and tea are all notorious culprits behind dental discoloration. Some dark-colored foods, like tomato sauce and berries, can also contribute to stains. If and when you choose to enjoy these things, be sure to drink water at the same time, as this will help to wash away food particles. 

Of course, smoking is detrimental to every aspect of your health, and it is also an inevitable cause of tooth discoloration.

How often can I receive teeth whitening?

You can receive whitening as often as once a year, though in most cases, you will not need such frequent treatment. At the same time, biannual dental cleanings will not exactly whiten your teeth, but they will help to remove plaque and tartar that cause dental stains. 

Does whitening have any side effects?

The most common side effect of teeth whitening is dental sensitivity. Sensitivity is more likely to occur following in-office treatment using a 40% solution of carbamide peroxide than after at-home treatment using a 10% solution. 

Unless you already suffer from dental sensitivity, however, you should not let this dissuade you from in-office treatment. In most cases, sensitivity is mild and goes away after a few days. When choosing your whitening method, there are a number of other factors to consider, including budget, time frame, and whitening goals.  

Contact Us to Learn More about Our Cosmetic Treatments 

Still have questions about whitening or other cosmetic dentistry options? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or give us a call at 580-255-4880.

The post “How long does teeth whitening last?” and Other FAQs appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges proudly offers both in-office Zoom!^® and take-home Opalescence^® teeth whitening. Take-home treatment provides the convenience of DIY methods, while in-office whitening offers immediate results. Regardless of the whitening method you choose, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine whether treatment is right for you.

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to schedule your appointment. 

Whitening Toothpastes

Many toothpastes are marketed as being able to whiten teeth. These toothpastes often contain carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, or similar materials, which can break down stains. These products really can reduce discoloration. However, the results will not be particularly noticeable. If you decide to purchase a whitening toothpaste, make sure you buy one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. 

Whitening Strips 

Whitening strips are another product commonly found in drug stores. When you wear the strips for about 30 minutes a day, these products claim to dramatically reduce dental stains. Again, they do really whiten teeth. But the results probably won’t be as noticeable as you would like. Most whitening strips only lighten teeth by a shade or two.

Baking Soda and Peroxide

Some people claim that you can achieve whiter teeth by brushing with baking powder and peroxide. Alternatively, you could place these products in a mouthguard. While this method could be effective, it could also be dangerous. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate your gums, and it is easy to create an over-concentrated solution. 

Oil Pulling 

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian remedy that is having a popular moment in Western holistic medicine. The method involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Typically, coconut oil is used. Proponents claim that it can whiten teeth and combat tooth decay and gum disease. However, while there have been some studies confirming the oral health benefits of oil pulling, currently no studies indicate that it is an effective method of teeth whitening. 

Take-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment 

For the most effective DIY method, consider take-home Opalescence. You will receive custom whitening trays, which you will fill with whitening gel. There are several flavors and concentrations to choose from. You can also decide how long you will wear the trays, from 15 minutes a day to overnight. Opalescence offers the flexibility of other do-it-yourself methods. At the same time, you will have the supervision of your dentist to ensure safe and truly noticeable results. 

Contact Us to Learn More about Teeth Whitening 

To schedule a cosmetic consultation, contact our office today.

Send us a message online or call 580-255-4880.

The post Does DIY teeth whitening really work? appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, we offer porcelain veneers as one of our many cosmetic treatments. Dr. Matthew Bridges is a proud member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics. Thanks to his extensive training, he can provide stunning results that will look totally natural. At the same time, our veneers can give you a bigger, brighter smile that looks years younger. 

To learn more about veneers and to schedule your consultation, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today.

Will veneers damage my teeth?

It is a myth that veneers will harm your teeth. To place them, Dr. Bridges will need to remove a very small amount of enamel. This will ensure that the porcelain lies flush against your teeth for the most natural look possible. 

The amount of enamel removed is minimal, so treatment will not compromise your teeth or increase your risk for decay. At the same time, it does mean that veneers are a permanent commitment. If you lose a veneer or one is damaged, you will need to replace it. Removing enamel also means that you may experience some dental sensitivity, but this will typically resolve itself within a few weeks.

What problems can veneers correct?

Porcelain veneers can address a huge range of concerns, including: 

• Misshapen teeth
• Disproportionately small teeth
• Tiny gaps between teeth
• Small chips
• Worn or crooked edges
• Dark internal discoloration

How do I know if I am a candidate for treatment?

If you struggle with any of the concerns mentioned above, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Because of the preparation process, however, it is important that you have healthy enamel to begin with. If you have sustained tooth erosion or dental decay, another treatment may be more appropriate. Ultimately, a cosmetic consultation is the only way to determine your candidacy.

How long will they last?

Studies indicate that most porcelain veneers last at least ten years, though many can last fifteen or twenty years. The lifespan will depend on a number of factors, including the skill of your dentist, your overall oral health, and how well you care for your veneers.

What are my other treatment options?

If you are not a candidate for porcelain veneers, or if you are not ready to commit to this treatment, you have plenty of additional options. Dental bonding, sometimes called composite resin veneers, offers similar results and can correct the same problems as veneers. At the same time, bonding is not as durable and may not look quite as realistic. Other treatment options include tooth contouring, whitening, and dental crowns. 

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center 

If you are ready to enjoy a brighter smile in the coming year, schedule your cosmetic consultation. Contact our office online or call 580-255-4880.

The post “Will they damage my teeth?” And Other FAQs about Porcelain Veneers appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Are you considering cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK? Let the Chisholm Trail Smile Center team help you choose treatments that work best for you. Request a consultation with Dr. Matthew L. Bridges today by calling (580) 255-4880 now!

In today’s post, our team explores seven reasons why you should consider exploring cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK. From transforming your oral health to elevating your overall well-being, these treatments offer more than you think! 

Enhanced Aesthetics

Cosmetic procedures can work wonders when dealing with stained, misaligned, or chipped teeth. These treatments help enhance the color, shape, and overall appearance of your teeth, providing you with a dazzling smile that exudes vitality and youthfulness.

Boosted Confidence

When you feel good about your teeth, you’re more likely to smile freely and engage in social situations confidently. 

So, cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK, isn’t just about improving your appearance – it’s about empowering you to face the world with a renewed sense of self-assurance!

Improved Oral Health

Contrary to popular belief, cosmetic dental treatments are not solely about aesthetics. These treatments also contribute to better oral and overall health. 

Procedures like dental crowns and veneers enhance the appearance of teeth while also strengthening and protecting them. By addressing issues like misalignment and gaps, cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK, can help prevent potential oral health problems down the road.

Long-lasting Results

One of the significant advantages of aesthetic dentistry is the longevity of the results. Unlike some temporary solutions (such as over-the-counter whitening products), professional cosmetic procedures offer lasting transformations. 

Functional Improvements

Cosmetic dental treatments can improve the functionality of teeth. Correcting issues like misalignment or malocclusions not only enhances the aesthetics of your smile but can also lead to better chewing and speech. 

This dual benefit ensures that your investment in aesthetic dentistry contributes to both your oral health and overall well-being.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Aesthetic dentistry is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Dentists work closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. 

Whether you’re looking to address minor imperfections or undergo a comprehensive smile makeover, cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK, offers a range of options to suit your preferences and budget.

Technological Advancements

Advancements in dental technology have revolutionized cosmetic dentistry, making procedures more precise, efficient, and comfortable. From 3D imaging to minimally invasive techniques, patients can benefit from the latest innovations for optimal results.

Shine Brightly with Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncan, OK

Aesthetic dentistry offers numerous benefits outside of cosmetic concerns. It may be for this reason that experts expect the cosmetic dentistry market to experience a compounded annual growth rate of roughly 14% from 2023 to 2030. Are you ready to experience the benefits of cosmetic dental treatments for yourself? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or at (580) 255-4880 to reserve your consultation today! 

The post 7 Reasons to Explore Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncan, OK, Today appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

In today’s blog, you’ll learn about:

• Why humans find symmetry attractive in a smile
• Porcelain veneers and how they’re created 
• Cosmetic bonding and how it’s performed
• Benefits and differences between treatment options
• How to schedule a cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Bridges

Symmetry Is Attractive

We like to believe that Americans are generally civilized and refined, high above what we consider to be petty things, like judging a person by his appearance. But appearance isn’t petty. In fact, as humans, we can’t help our attraction to beauty. Scientists who study evolution believe that humans find symmetrical faces attractive because of our primal desire to mate with a person of good genetic quality. “Symmetry is an honest indicator of genetic quality of potential mates,” according to a journal article published on Oxford Academic Behavioral Ecology, by Simmons, Rhodes, Peters, and Koehler (01 Sept. 2004). 

Another study, “Effects of The ‘What is Beautiful is Good’ Stereotype on Perceived Trustworthiness by Shinners, published by University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse, states: “Attractive individuals were seen as more trustworthy than unattractive individuals…”

In fact, Google has a wealth of studies and articles on the topic. The bottom line is that humans appreciate facial symmetry, and that includes the balanced, harmonic appearance of a symmetrical smile. If you dislike your smile, this article was composed with you in mind. An attractive smile is within reach!

How Veneers Create Normal Teeth Shape

As pictured above, porcelain veneers are placed on the front surface of front teeth–those that show in a smile. Veneers are made of strong layers of dental porcelain or ceramic. They reflect light like natural tooth enamel and have a beautiful, symmetrical, “normal” teeth shape. The procedure takes a few weeks to a month and requires a minimum of two dental visits. Veneers are handcrafted in a dental lab by expert ceramists.

How Bonding Creates Normal Teeth Shape

A more affordable option than veneers, cosmetic dental bonding reshapes malformed, unevenly or widely spaced, permanently stained, or chipped teeth. Bonding is made of composite resin, the same material used for white dental fillings. Dr. Bridges tints the liquid resin, then applies it to one or more teeth to create a new, attractive shape. Bonding is completed in a single visit because no lab fabrication is necessary. 

Benefits and Differences in Treatment Options

Cost of Veneers vs Cost of Bonding

Cosmetic dental treatments are not covered by insurance but can be financed through CareCredit with low or no interest, for qualified applicants.

Veneers range in cost from just under $1000 to about $2500 per tooth

Bonding costs a few hundred dollars, total.

Longevity of Veneers vs Bonding

The following age estimates are applicable in the absence of injury or disease and if good dental hygiene is practiced. All dental restorations can be damaged by pressure: habitual chewing on fingernails or pen caps; chewing on ice; or enduring a blow to the mouth, for example.

Veneers can last over 20 years.

Bonding usually lasts five to seven years.

Potential Problems with Veneers vs Bonding

Both procedures will give malformed teeth a natural teeth shape. They require mild to significant tooth preparation before the procedure. Preparation involves removing some tooth enamel or etching a tooth’s enamel to allow for a strong bond between the tooth and the restoration. 

If the seal of any restoration is compromised, bacteria can get beneath the restoration and cause decay. This is rare, but it can happen. Regular six-month dental visits will allow Dr. Bridges to make sure that all of your dental restorations and enhancements are strong. 

With cosmetic bonding, a seam exists between the resin and natural tooth enamel. This seam, when stained by food, beverages, or tobacco, can become visible over time. Since dental materials do not respond to chemical teeth whitening, the stains are difficult, and sometimes impossible, to remove. When staining appears, the best option is to replace the restoration. 

How to Schedule Your Cosmetic Consultation

Are you ready for your smile to look more attractive? Would a symmetrical smile with attractive, normal teeth shape give you more self-confidence? Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at 580-255-4880 to schedule your consultation with Duncan, OK, dentist, Dr. Matthew Bridges. We are accepting new patients and look forward to meeting you!

The post How We Give Malformed Teeth Normal Teeth Shape appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Brighter tooth enamel, straighter teeth, more esthetically shaped teeth, and no metal dental work can dramatically improve the appearance of smile. We achieve these goals with cosmetic dentistry, which Dr. Matthew Bridges offers at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK.

What is cosmetic dentistry? 

Any dental procedure that enhances the appearance of a smile is considered cosmetic dentistry. Some, like white fillings and crowns, are cosmetic, as well as restorative. In general, cosmetic dentistry includes:

• Teeth Whitening
• White Fillings
• White Crowns
• Porcelain Veneers
• Cosmetic Bonding
• Cosmetic Contouring

You could look healthier, younger, and more attractive after cosmetic dentistry by Dr. Matthew Bridges. At his Duncan, OK, dental office, Dr. Bridges offers an array of treatments and procedures to brighten, straighten, and improve the overall symmetry of a person’s smile.

In today’s blog, we’ll explain how to achieve these cosmetic goals for your smile:

• Brighter Enamel
• Better Alignment
• Balance and Symmetry

Brighter Enamel

Teeth Whitening

We offer both in-office whitening with Zoom! and take-home whitening kits. These systems yield dramatic and similar results. While Zoom! takes about an hour, optimal results are seen a few days later. Home whitening requires one to two weeks of daily use, wearing gel-lined trays as instructed.

Porcelain Veneers

Some stains, like fluorosis (white, horizontal lines) and tetracycline stains (blue-gray hue) do not respond to chemical teeth whitening. If your teeth have intrinsic stains or you ultimately want a full-smile makeover, porcelain veneers are the premium choice. Veneers cover the entire front surface of teeth that show when you smile.

Cosmetic Bonding

A quick and effective cosmetic dentistry treatment, cosmetic bonding involves composite resin, the same material we use for white fillings. When applied to teeth as a veneer (sheet), bonding accomplishes long-term teeth whitening. However, keep in mind that bonding lasts about seven years, while veneers can endure up to 20 or more years.

Better Alignment

Porcelain Veneers

Because porcelain veneers are handmade for each patient, Dr. Bridges can design veneers to make your teeth look more uniform. They can close spaces, reface twisted or small teeth, and in some cases correct the appearance of slightly overlapped teeth.

Cosmetic Bonding

If price is an issue, cosmetic bonding can achieve results similar to that of porcelain veneers, but it will only last about seven years, on average. Another consideration is that if bonding is placed on only a portion of a tooth and the natural tooth enamel stains, the bonded portion will stand out. The patient in this situation should undergo professional teeth whitening.

White Crowns

Though they look bulkier and require more tooth preparation than veneers, white ceramic crowns reshape teeth so they appear more uniform and symmetrical.

Balance and Symmetry

Porcelain Veneers

The all-in-one smile makeover, as they’re sometimes called, porcelain veneers combine many aspects of cosmetic dentistry in a single procedure. Veneers transform the appearance of front teeth, accomplishing permanent whitening, improved alignment, and excellent symmetry and balance. From the upper midline (where the two center teeth meet), veneers look symmetrical on both sides.

Cosmetic Bonding

Like veneers, bonding can balance a smile that features asymmetrical teeth. For instance, a small, twisted, or chipped tooth can be fully reshaped with cosmetic bonding.

Cosmetic Contouring

While bonding adds structure to teeth, contouring removes structure. Cosmetic contouring involves reshaping tooth enamel for a smoother, more esthetic edge. For example, a patient with sharp, pointy canines, will enjoy a softer esthetic after contouring. 

White Crowns

When veneers and bonding will not offer a durable, long-term solution to smile asymmetry and imbalance, porcelain crowns may be advised. 

Which cosmetic dentistry treatments will deliver your dream smile?

Find out at your cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Bridges. Schedule your appointment in our Duncan, OK, dental practice by calling (580) 255-4880. After evaluating your teeth, gums, and oral health, Dr. Bridges will talk with you about your goals. Once he understands what you’d like cosmetic dentistry to achieve, he’ll recommend appropriate treatments and answer all of your questions.

The post 3 Secrets of Transformative Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncan, OK appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Made of thin layers of porcelain, veneers look natural and can endure the pressure of biting and chewing foods. Dr. Matthew Bridges may recommend veneers to improve the appearance of front teeth that show when you smile. 

Because they cover the front surface of teeth, veneers correct stains, cracks, misalignments, and other imperfections to create a gorgeous smile. A ceramist handmakes each veneer in a dental lab with durable, esthetic porcelain tinted to blend with the patient’s natural teeth. Usually, the process takes two appointments and about a month to complete, following the initial consultation.

Today’s blog will review who needs porcelain veneers. We’ll explain in more detail the conditions that warrant veneers and what you can expect following the procedure.

Choosing Veneers

Also known as the all-in-one smile makeover, porcelain veneers can tweak or completely transform a smile. Cosmetic veneers improve one or more of the following attributes of a tooth:

• Shape
• Size
• Alignment
• Color

Porcelain Veneers Candidacy

Age

Because veneers are permanent, we recommend them for older teens and patients in any stage of adulthood. If a child gets veneers, the restorations will need replacement as the child’s natural teeth grow. Oftentimes, bonding is a more desirable cosmetic enhancement for children and young teens.

Health

Dr. Bridges wants your investment to last, so he will help bring your mouth into good health before placing porcelain veneers. This may involve treating tooth decay, gum disease, and occlusion issues that can lead to clenching and grinding (bruxism) and TMJ disorder. If you clench and grind your teeth, you can wear down veneers, as well as the other teeth and dental work in your mouth.

Prerequisite Orthodontics

Porcelain veneers can close mild to moderate gaps between teeth and correct the appearance of twisted or malformed teeth. However, if your teeth are too widely spaced or crowded and overlapping, you may need orthodontic treatment prior to veneers. 

Bad Habits

If you chew on your fingernails, pen caps, ice, straws, and other objects, you’ll need to break the habit before having veneers–or your veneers may break!

Also, tobacco will permanently stain tooth enamel, as well as dental work. If you smoke, your porcelain veneers will discolor over time.

Care and Mainteanance

DO NOT USE WHITENING TOOTHPASTE ON VENEERS. The abrasive paste will scratch your veneers and promote staining, rather than remove stains. Note also that chemical teeth whitening does not work on dental work, including veneers. Teeth whitening is intended for use on natural tooth enamel only.

Plan to visit the dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning, and as needed for toothaches and oral abnormalities. Also, you’ll need to practice good dental hygiene every day, morning and evening. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once, and use mouth wash to kill bacteria and bad breath. If veneers are damaged, contact Dr. Bridges immediately for an appointment.

Call Today for Porcelain Veneers Consultation

Are porcelain veneers right for you? Let’s chat about it! Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center today at 580.255.4880 and reserve your consultation with Dr. Matthew Bridges. He’ll take time to talk with you about your concerns, then conduct a comprehensive oral evaluation. He may want to take x-rays, as well. After reviewing his findings, the doctor will create a custom treatment plan, share it with you, and answer all of your questions. We love new patients!

The post Who Needs Porcelain Veneers? appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

If you are considering professional whitening, make sure you are a suitable candidate first. Learn about the qualifications here, but it’s also important to speak with a dentist to learn if you qualify for treatment. 

Dr. Matthew Bridges, our dentist in Duncan, OK, will talk to you about your smile goals, examine your smile, and determine whether professional in-office and at-home whitening treatment is the best option for you. Call our dental office today to schedule your teeth whitening consultation! 

The Ideal Teeth Whitening Candidate

Patients with yellow-stained teeth and an otherwise healthy smile are the best candidates for teeth bleaching. During a dental examination, Dr. Bridges can determine whether the stains on your teeth are intrinsic or extrinsic. 

Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Dental Stains

Intrinsic stains are inside the tooth and can occur because of medical conditions, medications, dental trauma, excessive fluoride, and genetics. In this case, Dr. Bridges may recommend veneers. Extrinsic dental stains can be treated with teeth bleaching because they only occur on the outside of the tooth due to external factors like chewing tobacco, smoking, coffee, tea, sodas, and dark-colored foods. 

Teeth Whitening Disqualifications

Cavities, gum disease, fillings, crowns, and bridges may disqualify you from treatment. Other conditions and circumstances that may bar a patient from teeth whitening treatment include: 

• Pregnancy and breast-feeding
• Being under the age of 16
• Allergic to peroxide or other teeth-bleaching agents
• Sensitive teeth

Duncan, OK, Teeth Whitening Options

At our dentist’s office in Duncan, OK, Dr. Bridges offers two types of professional teeth whitening: 

1. Zoom!® In-Office Whitening

Zoom in-office teeth whitening is a professional dental procedure that uses a powerful whitening gel and a special light to quickly and effectively whiten teeth. It is a popular option for people who want to get a brighter, more confident smile without the hassle and expense of at-home whitening kits. The procedure typically takes about an hour, and the results can last for several months with proper care.

2. Opalescence® Take-Home Whitening

Opalescence take-home whitening is a whitening treatment that you can use in the comfort of your own home. It involves wearing custom-fit trays filled with a whitening gel for a specified amount of time each day. The gel contains a powerful bleaching agent that penetrates the enamel to remove deep stains and discoloration. 

With regular use, Opalescence take-home whitening can help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile. It’s a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth and boost your confidence.

Schedule Your Appointment

Are you ready to feel more confident? Want to ensure your smile is picture-perfect for an upcoming wedding or special occasion? Call Dr. Bridges today! Our Duncan, OK dental team is ready to help you achieve a beautiful smile. Contact us at (580) 255-4880. 

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