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. 

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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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