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.

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.

Do you suspect that a cavity is forming in your smile? Don’t wait until it becomes a painful problem. Contact Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, today! Patients can easily request information and appointments at (580) 255-4880.

Dental decay is entirely preventable. That’s why dentists recommend once-daily flossing, twice-daily brushing, and biannual dental exams and cleanings. But, even with the best care and maintenance, it is still possible to develop cavities. In this blog, we explore the causes of cavities and the best ways to treat them.

What causes cavities?

Many factors can contribute to cavity formation, including:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Daily brushing and flossing are key components in oral hygiene, as they work to keep cavity-causing plaque off of the teeth. Failure to brush and floss daily can lead to plaque formation, which contains harmful bacteria that produce acids that dissolve tooth enamel.

Sugar and Starch

Eating foods that are high in sugar and starch can also contribute to the development of cavities. These substances provide fuel for the bacteria living in the mouth, which can then produce more enamel-destroying acid.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a condition in which the salivary glands do not produce enough moisture. Experts believe that roughly one in every four adults suffers from dry mouth, making it a very common oral issue. 

A dry mouth can lead to dental decay. This is because there is not enough saliva to wash away residual food debris and bacteria in the mouth, which can quickly lead to cavities.

Genetics

Even with the best oral hygiene and the cleanest diet, it is still possible to develop dental caries. This is because some patients have a genetic predisposition to certain conditions that can increase the likelihood of dental decay, such as:

• Dry mouth
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Metabolic syndrome

How to Treat Cavities

The best way to treat cavities is to prevent them. However, even the best preventive measures may not be enough for some patients. So, here are a few ways that dentists can treat cavities:

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are a durable material that a trained dentist can use to plug the space left behind after cavity removal. This treatment is long-lasting, with many fillings lasting for decades.

Dental Crowns

In some cases, cavities are too extensive to repair with fillings. Dental crowns are a step above dental fillings, as they offer 360° protection after cavity removal.

Root Canal Therapy

If a cavity spreads too far, then it can cause a root canal infection. Root canal therapy removes infected dental pulp and protects the tooth from further damage.

Tooth Extraction

In extreme cases, a dentist may not be able to save a severely decaying tooth. A health-saving tooth extraction may be a last-ditch effort to save your oral health from a pervasive cavity.

Treat Cavities with Our Dentist in Duncan, OK

Don’t let dental decay rob you of your smile. Get high-quality cavity treatment in Duncan, OK, with Dr. Matthew L. Bridges today! Patients can request appointments here or at (580) 255-4880.

The post Cavities: Why We Get Them and How to Treat Them appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Concerned that you have a cavity and looking for more information? Read on to learn the answers to some common questions about dental caries. Then contact us right away for the potentially tooth-saving treatment that you need.

What do cavities look like?

A cavity will change in appearance over time. Often, it will start out as a white spot, a sign that your tooth is being stripped of important minerals. As decay worsens, the white area may change to a brown or black spot. In more advanced cases, you may even see a small hole in the surface of your tooth.

Frequently, however, cavities are not visible. Many times, they are located inside of teeth where only a dental x-ray can reveal them. Other times, they may be situated between teeth where they are nearly impossible to see.

This is why it is so important to schedule your routine dental visits. Biannual cleanings will remove the bacteria, plaque, and tartar that cause cavities. Plus, your dentist can routinely screen for decay before it causes significant discomfort or damages the overall structure of your teeth.

Do cavities cause bad breath?

They can. The American Dental Association® warns that cavities harbor bacteria in areas where they cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. Thus, dental decay is a frequent cause of halitosis, or chronic bad breath. 

Are cavities common for kids?

While we would like to think of dental caries as an adult problem, the fact is that tooth decay is incredibly common in young children. In fact, 42% of children between the ages of 2 and 11 have sustained at least one cavity in their baby teeth. 

Fortunately, appropriate children’s dental care can greatly reduce the risk of cavities. From birth, parents should begin wiping down their children’s gums after eating. Once the first tooth erupts, they should begin brushing. Schedule your child’s first dental visit when their first tooth appears or around their first birthday. 

Of course, good dental care continues throughout childhood. Children should learn good oral hygiene, brushing twice daily and flossing at least once every day. They should continue to visit the dentist every six months for an exam and cleaning. And they should eat a healthy diet, limiting their intake of sugar, juices, and refined carbohydrates. 

Are cavities contagious?

Cavities are caused by bacteria, most commonly streptococcus mutans. Just like any microbes, oral bacteria can spread from person to person. Unfortunately, tooth decay is most likely to spread from adults to children since children have not yet built an immunity to oral microbes. For example, mothers will often share eating utensils with their children or test their food to make sure it is not too hot. This is an easy way to transmit cavity-causing bacteria.

How do you treat a cavity?

Dental fillings are the most common treatment for a cavity. Dr. Bridges offers several types of fillings, including lifelike composite. This durable material comes in various tooth-colored shades, so he can easily find a filling that blends naturally with your tooth. 

When undiagnosed decay spreads, you may require a more extensive treatment. If the cavity is too large for a filling, a dental crown can often reinforce the tooth and restore functionality. In cases where bacteria have spread to the dental roots, you may require root canal therapy. Dr. Bridges will carefully assess your tooth and provide the most effective and conservative treatment possible. 

Learn More about Cavities and Our Restorative Options

Still have questions about tooth decay or looking for outstanding dental care? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. Reach us via our online form or give us a call at 580-255-4880. We see patients from Duncan, OK, and the surrounding area. 

The post “What do cavities look like?” and Other FAQs appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

1.     High-Carb Diet

Did you know that cavity-causing bacteria love more than just sweets? Any food that contains fermentable carbohydrates can feed cavity-causing bacteria. Fermentable carbohydrates are carbs that break down into sugars while still inside the mouth and include sugary and starchy foods, such as candy, white bread, and potato chips. Even in small amounts, sugary and starchy foods can be more destructive throughout the day than a single high-sugar snack or dessert. 

Additionally, fermentable carbohydrates that linger, such as dried fruit or caramel, cause more damage than foods that are cleared out of the mouth quickly, like ice cream or yogurt. Moreover, parents are encouraged to restrict sugary drinks to mealtime. Water is an optimal choice for kids to sip throughout the day.

2.     Baby Bottle Decay

Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as “baby bottle decay.” Even though permanent teeth will eventually replace primary teeth, baby teeth are still susceptible to decay and must be protected. Healthy, strong teeth help children speak, chew their food, and make sure that adult teeth arrive and form appropriately. It’s also necessary to mention that cavity-causing bacteria are transmitted from person to person through saliva. 

It’s essential to reduce a child’s contact with the saliva of parents and other children. The good news is that baby bottle decay is preventable, and here are some ways to avoid it:

• Do not share utensils, toys, or other objects that may have come into contact with someone else’s saliva
• Fill bottles with breast milk, formula, or milk only
• Avoid filling bottles with juice and soft drinks
• Do not send babies or toddlers to sleep with bottles
• Encourage children to drink from a cup by their first birthday
• Monitor young children when brushing teeth (and start using a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste at age three.)

3.     Mouth Breathing

When people breathe through their mouths instead of their noses, saliva flow restricts as their mouths dry out. A dry mouth changes pH level and can make the mouth a more corrosive environment. An acidic, parched mouth facilitates dental decay and cannot rinse out the harmful bacteria that erode teeth.

4.     Enamel Defects

Dental enamel is the hard, outermost layer of the teeth. Enamel shields the soft, sensitive inner tooth against daily biting and chewing forces. Unfortunately, dental enamel does not always shape properly and can lead to several types of defects, including dental enamel hypoplasia. Enamel hypoplasia is characterized by thin or absent enamel and is more susceptible to decay.

Discover a Duncan, OK Dentist

If your child keeps getting cavities and you’re unsure why it’s time to contact a family dentist. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bridges, call 580-255-4880 or get in touch with us through our online contact page today.

The post Duncan, OK Dentist Answers: Why Does My Child Have Cavities? appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Continue reading to learn more about what fluoride is and how it can help you little one avoid cavities now and later in life. 

What is fluoride?

Fluoride occurs naturally in nature. When used in dental treatments and products, it remineralizes and strengthens teeth before and after development. When babies consume certain foods that contain fluoride (like spinach and potatoes), the body absorbs the fluoride and uses it to strengthen the teeth, even before they erupt. Fluoride can also be applied topically, like with toothpaste. It is an essential element for tooth development that also protects against harmful bacteria and plaque.

Dental enamel can be worn down when exposed to acidic drinks, foods, and bacteria. Fluoride treatments and drinking fluoridated water can strengthen the enamel to protect against these substances. .

Fluoride can help protect your child’s beautiful teeth and gums—especially if they start young. Children who began receiving fluoride treatments are 43 percent less likely to develop tooth decay and cavities.

By reducing the risk of cavities and slowing the growth of harmful bacteria, fluoride can also prevent gum disease, tooth pain, and the premature loss of adult teeth.

Our family dentist might recommend fluoride treatments for your son or daughter during their routine dental cleanings and exams.

Benefits of Fluoride Treatments

There are many benefits of fluoride applications, including:

●     Strengthens Enamel—Especially against bacteria and acids that can cause your enamel to break down

●     Restores Minerals to Your Teeth—Acids can destroy essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium that are vital to the health and structure of your teeth. Fluoride reverses this loss by adding minerals back

●     Prevents Cavities and Tooth Decay—Fighting bacteria that causes cavities is a daily process. Fluoride can help provide the tools to fight tooth decay

●     Natural Preventative—Fluoride can naturally and effectively prevent possible damage to your child’s teeth

Talk to an experienced family dentist to determine if a fluoride application is beneficial for your child.

Fluoride Helps Maintain Good Oral Health

Preparing your child for optimal oral health includes:

• Routine dental care with your child’s dentist
• Daily brushing and flossing
• Regular hydration
• Proper diet and nutrition
• Fluoride treatments

Paired with good dental hygiene habits and regular dental visits, fluoride strengthens your little one’s developing adult teeth, blocks cavities from forming, prolongs the life of baby teeth,  and even reverses early cavities through the process of remineralization.

Are you looking for a gentle pediatric dentist?

Are you interested in a compassionate family dentist in Duncan, OK?

As a comprehensive family practice, we welcome children of any age. We know the importance of a warm and considerate dental practice that values your children’s needs.

Dr. Bridges and our friendly, gentle dental team works hard to make every dental visit as pleasant and stress-free as possible. We know that positive dental care that starts early can shape one’s dental future. We also respect that every child has their own unique dental needs and reactions.

Give our attentive and welcoming dental team a call at (580) 255-4880 to make an appointment for your child’s dental visit to start them on a life-long path towards excellent dental health.

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