Many Americans avoid visiting the dentist due to fear and anxiety. A lack of regular dental care can lead to more significant issues, resulting in more expense and more extensive treatment in the future. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges has a heart for fearful patients. He wants people to know that visiting the dentist does not have to be a stressful or uncomfortable experience. Understanding that the dental office is a place of stress for many individuals, Dr. Bridges strives to create an environment that cultivates optimal patient comfort.

Comforting Atmosphere

From the very first time you walk in our door, our team is dedicated to creating a pleasant and relaxing environment.

Friendly Dental Professionals

We understand your need for high quality dental care in a low-stress environment. Our family-friendly practice has been serving our community since 1976. We enjoy building rapport with the families in our town, fostering relationships that will last a lifetime.

Dr. Bridges is known among our patients for his calm and kind chairside manner. He takes time with each individual, listening to their specific goals and concerns. He makes sure patients understand their options and are comfortable with their treatment.

Our entire team embraces a patient-centric philosophy. Dentistry is more than a job to us; it is our passion. Many of our team members participate in dental charity events when they are not at the office. We enjoy improving the lives of those we meet through compassionate care, and we believe each individual should be treated as family. Each staff member is trained on the latest technologies and techniques, so we can offer you the most up to date and effective procedures in dentistry.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we offer nitrous oxide to help reduce anxiety and calm your nerves. Commonly referred to as “laughing gas”, nitrous oxide is a safe and effective sedative that has been successfully used in dentistry for several decades. This method induces relaxation, and helps you feel comfortable.

Nitrous oxide gas is administered through inhalation, typically through a mask or nosepiece. Dr. Bridges can regulate the amount of nitrous oxide you are given, administering more or less as needed. Once the mask is in place, you will be asked to breathe normally. In approximately three to five minutes, you should begin to feel the effects of the gas. Nitrous oxide is not designed to put you to sleep, although some patients become so comfortable that they nap throughout their treatment. Typically, you will be able to respond to any directions given during the procedure, but you will feel extremely relaxed. Most patients report a tingling sensation in the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. You may also feel heavy, like you are sinking into the chair.

One of the best aspects of nitrous oxide is that you can still drive yourself to and from the dental office. Once your procedure is over, Dr. Bridges will administer 100 percent oxygen to flush your system and return you to a normal state. After approximately 10 minutes of pure oxygen, the effects of the nitrous oxide should wear off.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you suffer from dental fear or anxiety, Dr. Bridges and our team can make you feel at home and comfortable. To schedule an appointment, call our office at (580) 255-4880 or contact us online anytime.