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.

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.

The post Quick Tips for Choosing the Best Oral Hygiene Tools and Products appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

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. 

The post 8 Simple Tips for Preventing Cavities: Part 2 appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Adults also suffer from tooth decay. In fact, over 90% of adults in the US have at least one cavity in a permanent tooth. Twenty-five percent of us have untreated tooth decay. When cavities aren’t treated by a dentist, they grow to affect deeper layers of the tooth, then to neighboring teeth and into the jawbone.

A mere 1% of humans avoid cavities throughout life. Some people are more prone to developing cavities than others, so they must be particularly vigilant with dental hygiene. But children over three years of age and adults need to brush their teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste and thoroughly floss once a day. For infants to children aged three, parents should use un-fluroidated toothpaste.

You can take measures to ward off decay in your teeth and your children’s teeth with these eight tips. However, if you have a toothache or know that you have a cavity, call Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan today at 580.255.4880 to schedule a checkup with Dr. Matthew Bridges.

8 Tips to Prevent Cavities

#1: Don’t Allow Sugars and Other Starches to Linger

Sugars are a type of starch, and all starches cause tooth decay. The bacteria that live in your mouth eat starches and create an acidic byproduct that attacks tooth enamel. This acid softens enamel, then the cavity-causing Streptococcus mutans can eat tooth enamel to create cavities.

Starch that lingers in the mouth is prone to kick off the cavity process. So, after eating anything starchy or sweet, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Take it one step further by using a straw to drink all beverages except water. Also avoid hard candies, like suckers, mints, and Jolly Ranchers, unless you use the sugar-free version. The sweetener Xylitol is often found in gum and mints, and it actually helps boost oral health.

#2: Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

The bacteria in your mouth love a warm, wet, dark environment to grow and wreak havoc on your teeth and gums. Hydrating will not only wash away foods, starches, sugars, and bad bacteria, but it also helps saliva return to its proper pH. All of these things deter cavities.

#3: Floss Correctly and Thoroughly Every Day

Many cavities form between teeth and at the gum line because people don’t floss, or they don’t floss correctly. A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that one-third of Americans never floss. Never! Most people say flossing is difficult and frustrating, so they just don’t do it. Brushing alone does a lot to thwart tooth decay, but brushing cannot replace flossing.

If flossing is difficult for you, ask for a demonstration and hands-on guidance from our dental hygienist. You can also watch this video.

Many people prefer to use pre-threaded flossers with an ergonomic design. These little, disposable tools fit like a pen between the fingers, and they’re small enough to reach all the way back to wisdom teeth in the mouth. Flossers are cheap! There’s no good excuse for not flossing.

See the next 5 Simple Tips for Preventing Cavities

in next week’s blog!

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. 

The post 8 Simple Tips for Preventing Cavities appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Fight cavities and enhance your oral health with our dentist at Chisholm Trail, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges. Schedule appointments and request more information from the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, at (580) 255-4880.

In this blog, we discuss why we get cavities, how they form, and what we can do to avoid them.

Why do we get cavities?

The bacteria in our mouths are largely responsible for cavities. They form a sticky, biological film called plaque. This sticky plaque adheres to the teeth and accumulates, mostly along the gumline and hard-to-reach areas (like between the teeth).

Plaque and bacterial by-products are mostly acidic. This acid can dissolve the tooth’s enamel, leading to cavities.

According to our dentist at Chisholm Trail, There are several factors that can increase the risk of cavities, including:

• Poor oral hygiene
• Frequent snacking without brushing afterward
• Sugary and acidic foods and drinks
• Dry mouth
• Genetic factors
• Certain medical conditions and medications

Dentist at Chisholm Trail Explains How Cavities Form

Cavities form when the tooth’s enamel becomes weak and breaks down. This can happen when the pH level in the mouth drops below 5.0. The acid produced by the bacteria in plaque can lower the pH level in the mouth, leading to demineralization of the tooth’s enamel.

Once the enamel is weakened, the bacteria can penetrate the tooth’s surface and form a cavity. The cavity will continue to grow as the bacteria feed on the sugars in the food we eat. 

If left untreated, cavities can lead to toothaches, infections, and even tooth loss.

How can we avoid cavities?

The primary way to avoid cavities is to conduct good, daily oral hygiene. This includes:

• Brushing all surfaces of your teeth at least twice every day with remineralizing toothpaste
• Flossing at least once daily
• Visiting your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings

In addition to good oral hygiene, there are several other things you can do to avoid cavities, such as:

Reduce Acidic and High-Sugar Foods and Drinks 

Yummy treats that are high in sugar and acid can increase the risk of cavities. So. try to limit your consumption of these foods and drinks. Instead, opt for healthier alternatives, such as fruits, vegetables, and water.

Chew Sugar-Free Gum

Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production. As a result, it can help neutralize the acid in the mouth and prevent cavities.

Use Fluoride Products

Fluoride helps strengthen the tooth’s enamel and can prevent cavities. Ask our dentist at Chisholm Trail about fluoride treatments at your next dental visit.

Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking water can help flush out the bacteria and acid in the mouth. It can also promote healthy saliva production.

Consider Dental Sealants 

Our dentist at Chisholm Trail can apply dental sealants to the back teeth to prevent cavities. These thin coatings prevent wear and tear and keep bacteria at bay.

Meet Our Dentist at Chisholm Trail Today

By visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent cavities and maintain good oral health. So, don’t wait–contact our dentist at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, today! Patients can reach us online here or at (580) 255-4880.

The post Dentist at Chisholm Trail Explains How and Why We Get Cavities appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

We are almost halfway through this year. Have you scheduled a dental exam and cleaning yet? If not, then it’s time to contact Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. We offer numerous preventive treatments, including oral cancer screenings and X-rays. Contact our team today at (580) 255-4880 for more information and scheduling.

Brushing and flossing are the most important daily practices for keeping teeth and gums healthy. But, how do you know which products to use? In this blog, our family dentist in Duncan, OK, explores some of the most recommended oral hygiene products by dentists.

Electric Toothbrushes

Electric toothbrushes have become increasingly popular in recent years and for very good reason. According to the Oral Health Foundation, they are more effective in removing plaque and bacteria from teeth and gums than manual toothbrushes. 

Electric toothbrushes also have timers and pressure sensors. Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, finds this helpful, as it takes the guesswork out of proper brushing techniques. 

Water Flossers

Water flossers (commonly called oral irrigators) are devices that use a concentrated stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gum line. They can effectively remove food particles and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas, making them an ideal tool for patients with:

• Braces
• Dental implants
• Dental bridges
• Mobility issues

Tongue Scrapers

Tongue scrapers are dental tools that help remove bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the surface of the tongue. This can help improve bad breath, as the majority of oral bacteria that cause odor are found primarily on the tongue. Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, recommends tongue scraping at least once a day for improved hygiene. 

Remineralizing Toothpaste

Remineralizing toothpaste is a staple of any good oral hygiene routine. The mineral-rich ingredients (like fluoride or nano-hydroxyapatite) help strengthen tooth enamel, making teeth more resistant to decay and damage. 

Mouthwash

Mouthwash is an effective way to kill bacteria in the mouth, freshen breath, and prevent gum disease between brushings. However, it should not replace regular brushing and flossing.

Sugar-free Gum

Chewing sugarless gum after eating can help encourage saliva production. This is crucial for good oral health because saliva helps to neutralize enamel-destroying acids produced by microbes in the mouth. Saliva also washes away food particles that can lead to decay.

Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, recommends looking for ingredients like xylitol, which deter the growth of cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth. 

Friendly Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

Using the right oral hygiene products can make all the difference in your daily hygiene routines. Ask our family dentist in Duncan, OK, for more information on how to take your brushing and flossing habits to the next level.
You can reach Chisholm Trail Smile Center online here anytime, or you may call our Duncan dental office at (580) 255-4880.

The post Family Dentist in Duncan, OK, Reviews Oral Hygiene Products appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Chisholm Trail Dental Center has provided family dental care for generations of Duncan, OK, residents. We believe that a family dental practice has many benefits to offer parents and kids.

Here are just a few of the benefits you will enjoy at our office.

One Location for All Your Dental Care Needs

If you have had to visit different practices to find care for all of your family’s dental health needs, a family dental practice might be a better fit. At Chisholm Trail Dental Center, we offer a diverse list of treatments and procedures, including:

• Emergency Dental Care
• Fillings
• Dentures
• Crowns
• Bridges
• Dental Implants
• Preventative Care
• Root Canal Therapy
• TMD (Temporomandibular Joint Disorder) Treatments
• Teeth Whitening
• Veneers
• Sleep Apnea Treatments
• Oral Cancer Screenings
• Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental health care is more convenient when a family dentist can provide most, if not all, of the treatments your loved ones need. 

Personalized Care and Personal Relationships

Studies claim that half of Americans fear dental visits. Personal relationships increase mental comfort and help create a safe environment for you to engage in open discussions about your dental health concerns. Anxiety subsides when you find a great dentist and build a relationship based on trust and support. This is true for adults, as well as children. 

When your child develops a positive relationship with Dr. Bridges and our team, trips to the dentist will become fun and exciting adventures. These relationships can significantly help ease childhood dental anxiety and engage children in their own oral hygiene. 

Knowing You Past, Present, and Future

With a dental team you trust and visit repeatedly, the team members will know and understand your health history and personal preferences. As a family dentist in Duncan, OK, Dr. Bridges will be with your children from their first lost tooth forward. For the adults in your family, our team will, over time, learn about your health challenges, personal preferences regarding treatment, and how you take care of yourself. Time will allow us to understand you and your loved ones so that we can deliver highly personalized care. 

Ability to Schedule Multiple Appointments on the Same Day

Finding a family dentist for your entire family can give you more wiggle room in your busy schedule. Depending on the needs of each family member, you could schedule your children’s dental appointments on the same day as yours, or yours and your spouse’s on the same day. You could even schedule your whole family’s six-month checkups at one time. 

Emergency Dental Care Options

When you’re in need of emergency dental care, you won’t want to see a stranger. You’ll feel safer going to a dentist you trust. Dr. Bridges provides prompt and reliable care in emergency situations. Seeing a familiar face during an emergency can also ease anxiety and minimize potential trauma, especially for small children. 

Save Time and Money

A conveniently located dental office with a variety of services will help you save time. Since our team can diagnose and treat a range of dental health issues, you may not need to see a specialist, except for complex treatments. We can also complete multiple procedures in one visit, saving you the trouble of returning for another appointment.

We work diligently to keep our prices reasonable for Duncan, OK, families, as well. For your convenience, we accept most insurances and will help you file claims.

Visit Your Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

If you’ve been searching for the right dental office for your family, look no further. Dr. Bridges and our team at Chisholm Trail Dental Center provide trusted family dental care from our office in Duncan, OK. We see young children, professionals, and retirees, so we can handle all of your family’s dental health concerns. Call us today at 580-255-4880 or contact us online. 

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