Has it been a while since your last dental check-up? Be sure to schedule your next visit before the end of the year! Book your appointment at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, at (580) 255-4880 now.

Although regular dental visits and proper oral hygiene are crucial to a healthy smile, there are some natural tools to help you prevent cavities. Just remember, they don’t replace brushing, flossing, or routine dental visits. Now, let’s get started!

Crunchy Fruits and Veggies

Ah, nature’s toothbrushes! Munching on crunchy, fibrous fruits and vegetables (looking at you, apples, carrots, and celery!) can help prevent cavities by stimulating saliva production. 

Saliva is your mouth’s natural defense against tooth decay – it helps wash away acids, food particles, and bacteria before they can cause damage. Plus, saliva contains important minerals that help stop the progression of enamel erosion.

Green Tea Power

Drinking green tea is not only great for your overall health, but it also helps prevent cavities. Green tea contains compounds called catechins, which can reduce the bacteria in your mouth that lead to cavities. It’s like a mini mouthwash straight from nature! 

Swap out sugary drinks for unsweetened green tea to give your teeth a little extra protection. Just be mindful of staining – brushing afterward will keep your teeth sparkling!

Coconut Oil Cleansing

An ancient technique called oil cleansing (also called oil pulling) can be a natural way to prevent cavities. Coconut oil has natural antibacterial properties, which can assist in keeping your mouth clean. So, try swishing a small amount of high-grade coconut oil around in your mouth for about 20 minutes to help reduce harmful bacteria. 

Cheese, Please!

Who knew cheese could help prevent cavities? Dairy products, particularly cheese, are rich in calcium and phosphates, which help neutralize the acids in your mouth that can cause tooth decay. Eating a piece of cheese after a meal can actually help protect your enamel and reduce your risk of cavities. 

Clove Oil for Natural Healing

Clove oil contains a compound known as eugenol, which has natural antimicrobial properties. You can apply a small amount of diluted clove oil to your teeth and gums to help reduce bacteria and prevent cavities. Just remember, it’s important to dilute the oil and not overuse it.

The Best Defense: Good Oral Hygiene and Regular Dental Visits

While these natural methods can support your efforts to prevent cavities, they work best when combined with proper oral hygiene and regular dental visits. 

So, be sure to use fluoride toothpaste, brush after snacks and meals, floss at the end of the day, and visit our general dentist in Duncan, OK, at least two times a year to prevent cavities.

Prevent Cavities at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK

Nature offers some great tools to help you prevent cavities, but nothing beats the tried-and-true methods of brushing, flossing, and visiting our dentist in Duncan, OK. Request a preventive dentistry appointment online, or call Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at (580) 255-4880 for booking!

The post 6 Natural Ways to Prevent Cavities appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

In general, it’s best to visit a dentist in Duncan, OK, every six months to avoid preventable issues. If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, it’s time to call Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Just call (580) 255-4880 to schedule your check-up today!

Even if you visit the dentist regularly, you might encounter some issues before your next regularly scheduled appointment. So, in today’s blog, our Duncan dentist reveals six signs that a dental check-up is due.

1. You’re Experiencing Tooth Sensitivity

Have you ever felt a sharp twinge when sipping a hot cup of coffee or biting into an ice cream cone? Tooth sensitivity can indicate an issue like tooth decay or enamel erosion. 

While it might be tempting to brush it off, sensitivity is a clear sign that you need a dental check-up. Dr. Bridges can pinpoint the cause and offer solutions to make those pesky zingers disappear.

2. Bleeding Gums

If your gums turn bloody when you brush or floss, it’s time to take notice. Bleeding gums are often a symptom of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious oral and systemic health problems, including cardiovascular and neurological damage. 

A dental check-up with Dr. Bridges allows our team to assess the health of your gums and provide treatment to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Bad breath can be a sign of dental issues like gum disease, tooth decay, or even an infection. If you’re dealing with chronic bad breath despite your best brushing and flossing efforts, a dental check-up is the best way to figure out what’s causing it. Preventive dentistry can help tackle these problems before they escalate.

4. You Have a Toothache

A toothache can feel like a small annoyance, but it often signals a bigger problem. Whether it’s a cavity, infection, or a cracked tooth, a dental check-up is necessary to find the root cause. 

The sooner you address the toothache, the sooner you can get back to enjoying your day without pain. Remember, a toothache never solves itself – let Dr. Bridges help!

5. It’s Been More Than Six Months

Preventive care, including routine cleanings and exams, is the foundation of a healthy smile. So, if you can’t remember the last time you had a dental check-up, that’s a sign it’s time to schedule one! Regular dental visits every six months allow our Duncan dentist to catch small issues before they turn into major problems.

6. You Notice Changes in Your Mouth

Any unusual changes in your mouth, like sores, lumps, or color changes in your gums or tongue, warrant a dental check-up. Even if the issue doesn’t seem painful or urgent, Dr. Bridges can ensure everything’s in good shape and address any concerns before they become more serious.

Don’t Wait – Schedule Your Dental Check-Up in Duncan, OK, Today!

Your oral health plays a big role in your overall well-being, and scheduling regular dental check-ups is one of the best ways to keep everything in check. Give our general dentist in Duncan, OK, a call at (580) 255-4880 or contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online to set up that all-important dental check-up today!

The post 6 Signs It’s Time to Schedule a Dental Check Up in Duncan, OK appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

In today’s blog, the Chisholm Trail Smile Center team will share tips on how to prevent cavities. You’ll learn:

• How Cavities Start
• How to Prevent Cavities
• About Supplemental Fluoride
• About Dental Sealants

If you’re ready to schedule an appointment now, call our Duncan dental office at 580-255-4880. Dr. Matthew Bridges and our team welcome you and promise to treat you and your loved ones with the utmost gentleness, care, and respect. 

How Cavities Start

Inside your mouth live over 700 species and up to 20 billion–yes, billion–bacteria. The human body is quite resourceful. Tooth enamel, the protective, white coating on our teeth, is the hardest substance the human body can create and the second hardest substance in nature, next only to diamonds. So our teeth are designed to repel bacteria.

Oral bacteria like to eat starch, which you consume by way of sugars, bread, corn, potatoes, and other common foods and beverages. When oral bacteria eat starch, they create an acidic byproduct. These acids leach calcium and phosphorus from tooth enamel, the minerals that give enamel strength. When teeth are demineralized by acid, enamel softens. At this point, bacteria attack teeth because, in addition to starch, they like to consume tooth structure.

Over about an hour following the starch feast, tooth enamel re-hardens. Saliva resupplies the minerals enamel needs to become strong.

In addition, acids bacteria make and acids we consume from citrus fruits, tomatoes, carbonated beverages, sports drinks, and the like erode tooth enamel over time. As a result, enamel thins and offers less protection against cavities. 

Some medications and treatments also increase the potential for cavities. For example, aspirin, chemotherapy medications, inhaled corticosteroids, asthma medications, bisphosphonates, immunosuppressants, and oral contraceptives. 

Acid reflux, or GERD, can subject molars to stomach acid. Without antacids, this scenario can lead to excessive cavities on back teeth. Bulimia patients experience a similar problem. 

How to Prevent Cavities

The biggest cause of cavities is poor oral hygiene, though diet and nutrition can be a factor. Also, acid reflux disease, dry mouth (often caused by medications), teeth grinding, and even brushing too hard for too long can contribute to cavity formation.

You can take measures to reduce your risk for cavities, but as for how to prevent cavities, there’s no surefire solution–yet.

Practice daily oral hygiene following these steps:

• Brush in the morning for two minutes, using a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use a tongue scraper to remove excess bacteria and debris from your tongue
• Use antibacterial mouthwash to freshen your breath
• Floss your teeth thoroughly before evening brushing
• Brush teeth for two minutes after flossing
• You can add a tongue scraping and mouthwash to your evening routine if you prefer
• Ask about fluoride and sealants

In addition, to deter or prevent cavities:

• Reduce starch intake
• Use a straw in sugary or acidic beverages to reduce contact time with teeth
• Chew sugar-free gum to boost saliva production
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating or drinking
• Drink eight or more glasses of pure water daily
• Don’t suck on sugary candy or sip on a sugary or acidic drink; consume sugars and starches quickly to reduce contact time with teeth
• Schedule and attend six-month checkups and cleanings with Dr. Bridges

About Supplemental Fluoride and Sealants

Most adults are eligible for dental fluoride by way of a varnish or gel that we apply after dental cleanings. Fluoride in small doses is safe and has a significant effect on preventing cavities. Fluoride attracts enamel-strengthening minerals, so it helps with enamel remineralization. 

Topical fluoride works in baby and permanent teeth, but children can also benefit from ingesting fluoride. Most tap water is fortified with fluoride in the United States, so kids should not be limited to bottled water–which doesn’t usually contain fluoride.

Dental sealants are best suited to children under 14, though in some rare cases, Dr. Bridges may recommend sealants for an adult. Sealants are a clear or white coating painted onto molars and then hardened with a curing light. They create a barrier in the crevices of back teeth to prevent cavities. Sealants may need to be touched up occasionally to restore their effectiveness. 

Schedule Your Appointment Today!

The number-one way to prevent cavities is to practice diligent daily hygiene and attend checkups and cleanings. If you experience toothaches, you could have cavities even if you don’t see them. Cavities often form between teeth and are only detectable by X-ray. If it’s time for your semi-annual checkup and cleaning or you’re suffering from a toothache, call our Duncan dentist’s office today at 580-255-4880. We look forward to seeing your smile!

The post How to Prevent Cavities appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

America’s Founding Father Benjamin Franklin wrote, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” taking the idea from the old English proverb, “Eat an apple on going to bed and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” A doctor of teeth, whom we know as a dentist, would ask how a man can eat an apple if his teeth are in bad shape. I propose this rhyme: “Disease is a thief to a man with no teeth.” 

Dr. Matthew Bridges and our team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center want to help you prevent oral diseases that negatively impact overall health. At our Duncan, OK, dental office, your family will have access to gentle, comprehensive dental care delivered by a team of experts who go above and beyond to exceed our patients’ expectations.

In today’s blog, you’ll learn:

• Statistics about tooth loss in the USA
• What gum disease and dental caries are
• How to deter oral diseases and retain natural teeth 
• The need for dental restorations and prosthetics
• How to kick off a lifestyle that promotes whole health

Statistics on US Tooth Loss

Today, more people keep their natural teeth for life than in any previous generation. Access to professional dental care and public dental health education have influenced this statistic. Though it’s possible to keep natural teeth for life, tooth loss is still rampant, particularly in the over-65 demographic. 

According to the American College of Prosthodontics, 

• 178 million Americans are missing one or more teeth
• 40 million Americans have lost all teeth
• 30% of Americans 65 to 74 years of age have no natural teeth

Gum Disease and Dental Caries

The main causes of tooth loss in adults are periodontal (gum) disease and dental caries (cavities). Issues like smoking, alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and dry mouth contribute to tooth loss. Avoiding six-month dental cleanings and checkups allows these issues to steal good oral health, and poor oral health negatively affects overall health and wellness.

Gum disease is an oral disease that begins when plaque and calcified plaque, called tartar or calculus, irritate soft oral tissues. Bacteria in plaque accumulate at the gum line and eat away connective tissues that hold gums to teeth. As a result, periodontal pockets form at the base of teeth, creating a harbor for the rapidly reproducing bacteria. Without treatment, gum disease can progress to cause tooth loss. In fact, gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults. 

Tooth enamel is the hardest substance the body creates–harder than bone. It’s also the second hardest naturally occurring substance on earth, next to diamonds.

Dental cavities form when tooth enamel becomes soft in response to acids created by bad oral bacteria. In its softer state, tooth enamel is vulnerable to bacterial invasion. The bacteria eat tooth structure, leaving black cavities in their wake. Without a dentist intervening to repair cavities, the decay will spread and kill teeth, gum tissue, and jawbone tissues.

Dental Cleanings, Checkups, and Good Daily Oral Hygiene Habits Deter Disease

I cannot stress enough that good dental hygiene is imperative to good oral and overall health. A mere 13.5% of American adults floss daily. If you brush and floss daily, and visit us twice a year for dental cleanings and checkups, your mouth and body will be healthier.

In addition to causing bad breath and tooth loss, gum disease is linked to an increased risk for overall health problems like:

• Ischemic stroke
• Heart disease
• Respiratory disease
• Osteoporosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
• Diabetes complications
• Low-weight births

Dental Restorations and Prosthetics

Dental cleanings and checkups allow Dr. Bridges and our team to detect and treat gum disease, cavities, tooth fractures, infections, and other oral health problems before they escalate. Patients who experience these issues can restore dental health with restorations and prosthetics by Dr. Bridges. 

Dental restorations include dental fillings, crowns, and partial crowns known as inlays and onlays. Dental prosthetics replace teeth with bridges, partial dentures, full dentures, and dental implants. As a gentle dentist, Dr. Bridges helps patients recover good oral health through restorative dental care.

Kick Off a Lifestyle of Great Health

If you and your family want to initiate a strategy to improve oral health, schedule your dental cleanings, checkups, and restorative appointments by calling our Duncan, OK, dentist office at 580-255-4880 or schedule your appointment online. Our office is located at 2035 West Elk Ave., and we take appointments from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday through Thursday. We are accepting new patients and look forward to meeting you!

The post Improve Your Health with Six-Month Teeth Cleanings appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Continue reading to discover the science behind cavities and explore the factors that contribute to their formation.

The Anatomy of a Cavity: A Microscopic Journey

To understand caries, we must first zoom in on the microscopic level. Our mouths are home to various bacteria, some of which are beneficial, while others can wreak havoc on our teeth. Streptococcus mutans, in particular, is notorious for its role in tooth decay.

When we consume sugary or starchy foods, these bacteria feed on the remnants left on our teeth and produce acid as a byproduct. This acid, in turn, erodes the enamel—the protective outer layer of our teeth. Enamel is a hard, mineralized substance that shields the underlying dentin and pulp from harm. As the enamel weakens, tiny openings or cavities can form.

The Domino Effect: Factors Contributing to Caries Formation

While bacterial activity is a primary factor in cavity formation, several other elements come into play:

Dietary Habits

The types and frequency of foods we consume significantly impact cavity formation. Sugary and acidic foods create an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive. Limiting the intake of such foods can help reduce the risk of cavities.

Oral Hygiene Practices

Inadequate brushing and flossing allow bacteria to accumulate on the teeth, leading to plaque formation. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, produces acids that contribute to enamel erosion.

Saliva Composition

Saliva plays a crucial role in neutralizing acids and maintaining a healthy oral environment. Factors such as dry mouth or reduced saliva production can increase susceptibility to cavities.

Genetic Predisposition

Genetics can influence the strength of your enamel and the overall health of your teeth. Some individuals may be more genetically predisposed to cavities, emphasizing the importance of personalized oral care.

Age and Hormonal Changes

Changes in oral health are often associated with different life stages. Children, for example, are more prone to caries as their enamel is still developing. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also affect oral health.

Debunking Myths: Dispelling Common Misconceptions About Cavities

Despite the prevalence of cavities, numerous myths surround their causes and prevention. One common misconception is that only children get cavities. In reality, individuals of all ages can develop cavities, and factors such as diet and oral hygiene habits play a significant role.

Another myth is that only sugary foods cause cavities. While sugar is a major contributor, starchy foods also break down into sugars, providing fuel for bacteria. Maintaining a balanced diet and practicing good oral hygiene are key to preventing cavities.

Empowering Your Oral Health Journey in Duncan, OK

Understanding the basics of cavities empowers individuals to take control of their oral health. By adopting healthy habits, dispelling myths, and seeking regular dental care, you can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and maintain a bright, healthy smile. Remember, prevention is the key, and a little care today can go a long way in preserving your oral health for years to come.

The post Understanding the Basics: What Are Cavities and How Do They Form? appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

It’s tempting to ignore dental health when life gets hectic, but it could lead to painful and pricey issues in the not-so-distant future. Preventative dentistry treatments with Dr. Matthew L. Bridges in Duncan, OK, can help you prioritize your oral health without interrupting your busy schedule. Get comprehensive and speedy care at Chisholm Trail Smile Center today by calling (580) 255-4880!

Preventive dentistry treatments keep oral issues at bay while enhancing your overall health. Experts recommend twice-yearly preventative care with a trusted dentist for optimal well-being. So, if you haven’t visited a dentist this year, here are the top reasons why investing in preventative dentistry before 2024 is a wise choice.

Early Detection of Issues

Preventative dentistry focuses on identifying dental problems in their beginning stages. Regular check-ups and cleanings can help catch issues like:

• Cavities
• Gum disease
• Oral cancers 

Catching these problems early makes treatment less invasive, more effective, and less expensive. 

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

Many people shy away from dental check-ups due to perceived high costs. However, preventive dentistry is a cost-effective approach when compared to the expenses associated with treating advanced dental problems. 

Routine cleanings and examinations are a fraction of the cost of major dental interventions. By investing in your oral health now, you are potentially saving yourself from substantial financial burdens down the road.

Preserving Natural Teeth

One of the primary goals of preventive dentistry is to preserve your natural teeth for as long as possible. Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar, preventing decay and gum disease, which helps maintain the integrity of your teeth.

Preventing Gum Disease

Gum disease is a prevalent oral health issue that, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications (including tooth loss). 

By prioritizing preventative dentistry in 2023, you reduce the risk of developing gum disease and its associated consequences in 2024.

Enhancing Overall Health

There is strong evidence indicating the link between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, including:

• Respiratory infections
• Pregnancy complications
• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes 

By adopting preventive dentistry measures, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also contributing to your overall health. 

Promoting Confidence and Mental Well-Being

Preventative dentistry not only ensures the physical health of your teeth and gums but also contributes to your mental well-being. Knowing that your oral health is in good shape can alleviate anxiety and boost self-esteem, allowing you to smile freely and engage confidently in social interactions.

Establishing Healthy Habits

Preventive dentistry encourages the establishment of good oral hygiene habits. This, in turn, sets the stage for a lifetime of good oral health practices, ensuring that you continue to prioritize your dental well-being beyond 2024.

Schedule Your Preventative Dentistry Appointment in Duncan, OK

Preventative dentistry is not just about addressing immediate concerns – it’s an investment in your future well-being. By taking proactive steps to care for your oral health, you’re not only saving money but also preserving your natural teeth and contributing to your overall health. 

As we step into 2024, let’s make a resolution to prioritize preventive dentistry and smile our way to a healthier New Year. Request preventive appointments online or call Dr. Bridges at (580) 255-4880 for scheduling now!

The post Embracing Preventative Dentistry Before 2024 for a Healthier New Year appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

When in doubt, contact a trusted dentist, like Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Our dentist in Duncan, OK, can help you assess your oral health and make honest recommendations to enhance your smile. Give us a ring at (580) 255-4880 to learn more!

To help you determine if you should be heading to the dentist’s office, we’ve created a simple quiz. Answer these questions honestly to find out if it’s time for your next dental check-up!

1. How long has it been since your last dental visit?

a) Less than six months

b) Six months to a year

c) More than a year

d) I can’t remember

2. Have you experienced any pain or discomfort in your mouth recently?

a) No

b) Maybe the occasional toothache

c) Frequent pain or discomfort

d) Severe pain that affects my daily life

3. Are your gums healthy and free from bleeding when you brush or floss?

a) Yes, my gums are in great shape

b) A little bleeding from time to time

c) My gums bleed regularly

d) My gums bleed every time I brush or floss

4. How often do you brush your teeth and floss?

a) Twice a day, every day

b) Once a day

c) A few times a week

d) Rarely or never

5. Do you have any dental work that needs attention, such as fillings or crowns?

a) All of my dental work is in good condition

b) Some dental work needs a check-up

c) I have dental work that is overdue for replacement

d) I’m not sure about the condition of my dental work

6. Have you noticed any changes in your oral hygiene routine or dietary habits?

a) No changes

b) Minor changes

c) Significant changes

d) I don’t follow a regular oral hygiene routine

7. Do you have a family history of dental issues, like gum disease, cavities, or oral cancer?

a) No family history of dental issues

b) Mild family history

c) Strong family history

d) I’m not sure about my family history

Now that you’ve answered the questions, let’s assess your results!

If you mostly answered “a,” congratulations! It appears that you’re maintaining excellent dental health and are keeping up with regular dental visits. You should continue your current oral hygiene routine and schedule your next check-up as recommended by your dentist (or every six months as recommended by the American Dental Association).

If you answered mostly “b,” it’s time for a dental visit. You may have some minor concerns that need professional attention, like a check-up or cleaning. Don’t wait too long – schedule an appointment soon.

If your answers were mostly “c,” you should definitely visit our dentist in Duncan, OK. It’s been a while since your last visit, and you may have some oral health issues that need addressing, such as gum disease or cavities.

If you selected mostly “d,” you should schedule a dental appointment immediately. Severe pain, neglected dental work, and a lack of oral hygiene routine are signs that you need urgent dental care.

Meet Our Dentist in Duncan, OK

If you’re unsure about your results or have specific concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist in Duncan, OK. Dr. Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center will gladly help you determine the best course of action for your smile. Contact us online anytime, or call (580) 255-4880 for more!

The post Need to visit a dentist in Duncan, OK? Take this quiz to find out! appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

An infection is what happens when one or more microorganisms (like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoans) attack healthy tissues in or on a host. Oral infection is the result of microorganisms establishing themselves in or on the mouth. 

All of the infections that can occur in or on the parts of the mouth qualify as oral infections. From cold sores to cavities to gum disease to oral cancer, they’re all oral infections. Since only 1% of the human population avoids cavities, you’ve probably experienced oral infection at least once.

In today’s blog and next week’s blog, you’ll learn how to FIGHT oral infection proactively, which will reduce your risk of overall health problems. We’ll explore the following topics, so after reading this blog, stay tuned for next week’s continuation.

• • Symptoms of oral infection
  • Types of oral infections
  • Oral cancer facts
  • Re-claiming good oral health
  • Tips to prevent oral infection
  • How to find professional help

Symptoms of Oral Infection

Your mouth is a complex system made up of hard tissues, bones of the jaws and teeth, as well as soft tissues, gums, tongue, interior of cheeks and throat, and the upper and lower palates. Therefore, if you experience abnormalities in the appearance or feel of any of these components, you should see Duncan dentist Dr. Matthew Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. 

You might experience some of these symptoms if you have an oral infection:

• • Chronic bad breath (halitosis)
  • Loose permanent teeth
  • Pain in the teeth, gums, or jaws
  • Sores in or on the mouth, lips, or gums
  • Sore or bleeding gums (when brushing teeth)
  • Swollen gums, jaw, or lymph nodes

Types of Oral Infections

This list of oral infections is not comprehensive. Instead, these are some of the most common oral infections:

• • Tooth decay (AKA dental caries, cavities)
  • Gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis, advanced periodontitis)
  • Thrush (yeast infection on soft tissues)
  • Canker or cold sores
  • Oral herpes
  • Tonsil stones (tonsilloliths)
  • White tongue (oral papillae on tongue swell and trap food debris, and bacteria)
  • Coxsackie and herpangina viruses (usually occur in children and causes blisters)

Oral Cancer

Approximately 54,540 new cases of oral cancer or oropharyngeal cancer will be diagnosed this year. About 11,580 people will die as a result of oral cancer this year. These cancers account for 3% of diagnosed cancers, annually. People over 40 are at greater risk, and men develop oral cancers twice as often as women.

Of course, smokers and tobacco users run a high risk of developing oral cancer. However, an untreated oral infection can also prompt the development of oral cancer at that site. Denture wearers whose dentures cause oral sores should see the dentist for relining and instructions to cure the sores.

The good news is, if you stop smoking and using tobacco now, you’ll reduce your risk. Other good news: 67% of people who develop oral cancer have a 5-year survival rate, overall. 

The best way to survive oral cancer is to find and treat it early. Mouth sores that bleed easily and don’t heal over the course of 14 days should be screened by Dr. Bridges. You may need a biopsy to determine whether oral cancer is present.

At every dental exam, Dr. Bridges inspects the mouth for oral infection, as well as oral cancer. The exam is comfortable and quick. The dentist will bring your attention to any suspicious areas. That requires a biopsy.

We Want to Help

We welcome new patients of all ages. If you live in the Duncan, OK, area, call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at 580-255-4880 and schedule an appointment with Dr. Bridges. He’ll make you feel welcome and respected, regardless of the state of your oral health. Dr. Bridges has helped many people overcome poor oral health to reclaim comfortable oral function and good oral health.

 

The post The Knockout Punch for Oral Infection appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

If you have questions about oral health products, you’re in the right place! Here, you’ll acquire excellent, expert information to help set your mind at ease and set your morning oral hygiene routine up for success. 

Now, let’s explore the most important oral health tools and products. We’ll cover:

• Toothbrushes
• Floss or Flossers
• Mouthwashes
• Tongue Scrapers
• Toothpaste
• Home Whitening Products

Best Toothbrushes for Oral Health

The big question here is, electric or traditional? Studies show that electric toothbrushes aren’t more effective than non-electric counterparts. However, most people tend to brush longer with an electric toothbrush. So, if you or your children have trouble brushing for a full two minutes in the morning and evening, an electric toothbrush may help maintain good oral hygiene.

Tips:

• Unless Dr. Bridges tells you otherwise, always select a soft-bristled brush.
• Choose a brush with a head that fits your mouth. Kids need small brushes.
• Select different colors for each household member.
• If you get sick, once you’re well microwave your toothbrush in a cup of water for 3 minutes to kill germs.
• Replace toothbrushes every 3 months.

Toothpaste: The Right Fit Makes All the Difference

You need to consider your toothpaste’s main benefit (reduces sensitivity, whitens teeth, etc.) as well as the flavor you and your family members prefer. Children often opt for fruity flavors, while older kids and adults usually prefer a mint toothpaste.

Tips:

• Children under three years of age need toothpaste without fluoride. (Swallowing toothpaste in childhood can cause fluorosis, permanent horizontal white lines, on permanent teeth that have not yet erupted.)
• Choose an ADA-approved toothpaste. (The ADA is the American Dental Association.)

Flosses or Flossers Are Super Important

In truth, few people floss, and even fewer floss correctly. Flossing can feel awkward if you don’t use a good technique. Our hygienists will be happy to teach you proper flossing techniques so that you can develop an effective method. 

You’ll find waxed and unwaxed, as well as flat and round varieties of floss. All work well if you use the proper technique, so just select the flavor and type that appeal to you. 

Flossers are ergonomic, pre-threaded tools that you throw away after use. They can make flossing much easier for children and seniors in particular.

Tips:

• Choose a flavored floss to freshen your breath. 
• Choose the floss that your hygienist recommends or the one you’re most likely to use every day to maintain good oral hygiene.
• Floss once a day, as recommended by the ADA. If you wear braces, use interdental flossers as well as traditional floss, and floss after meals and snacks when you brush your teeth.
• Floss before brushing.

Mouthwashes: Different Types for Different Issues

Like toothpaste, mouthwash comes in many flavors and serves varying purposes. Choose the mouthwash that will accomplish your goal, whether you want to brighten your teeth with whitening mouthwash or use a simple fluoride rinse.

Tips:

• Kids under three should not use mouthwash.
• ACT mouthwash helps kids measure the right amount with its special press-to-measure bottle.
• Everyone in your family may prefer a different mouthwash. 

Tongue Scrapers: A Great Tool for Fresher Breath

Few people use a tongue scraper. The tool, which comes in various shapes and sizes, literally scrapes the top of the tongue to remove plaque and debris from between the bumps of the tongue. Use a tongue scraper after you brush to reduce plaque and bad breath. Then rinse with your preferred mouthwash.

Home Whitening Products: An Afforable Option for Moderate Results

Dr. Bridges offers professional teeth whitening systems in our office. If you only want mild to moderate results, however, you can opt for an over-the-counter whitening product. Without a prescription, you can purchase whitening strips, pastes, mouthwashes, trays, and brush-on varieties.

Call for Your Oral Hygiene Consultation

In Duncan, OK, Dr. Matthew Bridges treats patients of all ages. (Our team loves kids!) If you need more direction on maximizing the effectiveness of your oral health regimen at home, schedule a new patient consultation today. Call 580.255.4880 today.

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5 More Simple Tips for Preventing Cavities

#4: Fluoride Toothpaste, Mouthwash, and Treatments

Fluoride is in most of the tap water in the US, but these days, many people drink bottled water, so they miss out on the benefits of fluoridated water. We encourage patients of all ages to drink tap water, use fluoridated toothpaste and mouthwash, and undergo quick fluoride treatments at dental cleanings.

Fluoride attracts the enamel-strengthening minerals calcium and phosphorus. These minerals keep enamel strong, which helps deter cavities. Children who drink a small amount of fluoride, like what’s in tap water, have the benefit of improving enamel in permanent teeth that haven’t yet erupted or are still growing. Adults, however, only benefit when fluoride comes in direct contact with tooth enamel by way of rinses, pastes, tap water, and professional fluoride treatments.

#5: Dental Sealants for Kids

Clear, protective dental sealants painted onto kids’ molars fill crevices and pits where food and plaque tend to lodge. Sealants create a barrier against Streptococcus mutans, as well, to prevent cavities. We recommend sealants for kids up to age 14 who have permanent molars, and for some adults.

#6: Effectively Treat Acid Reflux (GERD) 

Acid reflux afflicts 60 million Americans monthly, and up to 15 million daily. If you suffer from acid reflux, also called GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease), the acid that comes up from your throat can erode back teeth. Thin, eroded enamel is more prone to cavities than strong enamel, so some GERD patients suffer from a high incidence of cavities.

Talk with your general physician or use an over-the-counter acid reducer to treat your condition. When GERD is brought under control, your oral health benefits.

#7: No Sodas or Energy Drinks

Enamel erosion has been a growing problem with children since sodas and more recently sports drinks became popular. When we down a soda or sports drink and then rinse with water, our oral health isn’t usually harmed. However, consuming sodas and energy drinks throughout the day or over the course of an hour or more subjects tooth enamel to long baths in sugars and acids. Both contribute to enamel erosion, which increases the risk of cavities.

Try sugar-free, non-carbonated drinks instead of harsh sodas and sports drinks. Sugar-free water flavoring provides a safer, healthier alternative. Flavorings come in packets (for water bottles), as well as small bottles to add drops to your water. A wide range of flavors, from tropical to iced tea, and from peach to watermelon.

#8: Always Attend Six-Month Checkups and Cleanings

Along with diligent oral home care, professional dental cleanings and checkups are imperative to achieving and maintaining good oral health. At a checkup, Dr. Bridges will evaluate your mouth: teeth, gums, jaws, tongue, and other soft oral tissues; as well as your head, neck, and jaw joints. If he finds cause for concern, like cavities or gingivitis, he’ll suggest treatment options. 

At your cleanings, our dental hygienist will clean all plaque, tartar, and food debris from on and between your teeth. Then, the hygienist will polish your teeth to a silky-smooth finish that your tongue will love. In addition to cleaning, the hygienist records the pocket depths of your gums, to monitor gum health over time. 

Gum disease affects half of the US population and is the main cause of adult tooth loss, so gum health is extremely important. Lastly, if you have questions about your home care routine or the products you use, the hygienist will be happy to help.

Let’s Fight Cavities Together

Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan at 580.255.4880 to schedule a consultation, checkup, or cleaning with Dr. Bridges. Our entire team loves kids, so your little ones will feel well cared for in our office, as well. 

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