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.

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.

Are you looking for gentle, personalized dental care that doesn’t break your budget? You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Matthew L. Bridges in Duncan, OK, at (580) 255-4880 today!

Choosing the right Duncan, OK, dental service for you can be a daunting task. But, you don’t have to sift through your options alone. In this blog post, we give you some tips to help you choose the right dental service for you.

Consider Your Needs

The first step in choosing the right Duncan, OK, dental service for you is to consider your needs. Here are just a few questions to ask yourself before scheduling an appointment:

• Do you need a routine check-up and cleaning, or do you have a more serious dental issue that requires specialized care? 
• Are you interested in cosmetic treatments?
• Do you have dental insurance, or are you paying out of pocket? 

These are important factors to consider when choosing a Duncan, OK, dental service. If you aren’t sure what your needs are, then ask! Our team may be able to point you in the right direction.

Ask Friends and Family for Recommendations

Ask your family, friends, and colleagues for recommendations on dental services that they have used and trust. You can also ask your primary care physician or local dental association for referrals and recommendations.

Alternatively, you may find recommendations for Duncan, OK, dental services online. It is important to read online reviews and check the credentials of any dental service you are considering before pursuing treatments.

Give Yourself Options

A good dental service should offer a comprehensive range of services. This includes routine check-ups and cleanings, as well as specialized care for more complex dental issues, such as:

• Root canals
• Orthodontics
• Oral surgery

By choosing a Duncan, OK, dental service that offers a comprehensive range of treatments, you can avoid having to visit multiple dental providers. As a result, you can save extra time and money!

Check for Insurance Acceptance and Flexible Payment Options

If you have dental insurance, it is important to choose a dental service that accepts your insurance plan. This can help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses. It also ensures that you receive the maximum benefits available under your plan.

But, even if a Duncan, OK, dental service does not accept your insurance plan, it may still be worth exploring that facility. Many dental providers offer flexible payment options to make dental care more affordable for the nearly 34% of uninsured or underinsured patients living in America. 

Get to Know Our Duncan, OK, Dental Service

Exploring all of your Duncan, OK, dental service options can feel overwhelming. Let the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center help. Contact our team today by calling (580) 255-4880 or by sending us a message here to inquire about available smile solutions.

The post How to Choose the Right Duncan, OK, Dental Service for Me appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges and his caring team can help you repair your smile with quality dental bridges. From start to finish, you’ll get the patient-centered care that you deserve. So, don’t wait–call our Duncan, OK, dental office now at (580) 255-4880 or request an appointment online here.

If you’re missing one or more teeth, then you might be wondering if dental bridges are right for you. Here, Dr. Bridges will answer five frequently asked questions (FAQs) about dental bridges to help you make the right choice for you.

What are dental bridges?

A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic made from high-quality materials to resemble the appearance and function of natural teeth. Typically, a dental bridge contains one or more false teeth, which are held in place with the help of dental crowns on neighboring teeth. However, some dental bridges maintain their position in the mouth by fastening to sturdy dental implants.

Who is a good candidate for a dental bridge?

Traditionally, an ideal candidate is one who has at least one missing tooth or several missing teeth in a row. But, tooth loss alone is not a sufficient qualifier for candidacy.

Patients must also have good oral health before getting a dental bridge. Otherwise, cavities and gum disease will continue to wreak havoc on the patient’s oral and overall health. 

Nonetheless, most patients with one or more missing teeth in a row are usually ideal candidates for a dental bridge. And because a traditional dental bridge is minimally-invasive, it is a suitable alternative to dental implants.

Are there different types of dental bridges?

Yes, there are many types of dental bridges. But, the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center only offers traditional bridges and implant-supported bridges.

Traditional bridges use dental crowns to hold their place in the mouth. Whereas, implant-supported bridges require surgically implanted titanium posts for stability.

Ultimately, an in-depth consultation with Dr. Bridges will help you choose the right type of dental bridge for you, your health, and your lifestyle.

How long does a dental bridge last?

With the proper care, a dental bridge can last at least a decade. Daily brushing and flossing combined with regular dental checkups and cleanings will help patients keep their appliances for longer.

Does a dental bridge make it harder to eat and speak?

At first, a dental bridge might feel foreign while eating and speaking. However, most patients quickly grow accustomed to their dental bridges after the first few days of wear. 

Generally, patients with a dental bridge report increased ease, comfort, and confidence while eating and speaking.

Schedule a Dental Bridge Consultation Today

If you are missing one or more consecutive teeth, then a dental bridge might be right for you. Schedule a comprehensive consultation now to verify your candidacy. New and existing patients can contact our Duncan dental office at (580) 255-4880 or send us a message online here.

The post We Answer Five FAQs about Dental Bridges appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we work in-network with Health Choice and Delta Premier but accept many other forms of dental insurance. For patients who lack dental insurance, we offer in-house financing through CareCredit as well as other payment options.

Whether you have insurance, Medicare, or prefer financing, our staff will work to ensure that affordability is not a barrier to proper dental care.

Will My Procedure Be Covered by Dental Insurance?

Generally speaking, preventative and diagnostic treatments (such as consultations and cleanings) are covered entirely by dental insurance plans. The idea is to encourage patients to seek preventative care before more dangerous (and expensive) complications develop. Most insurance plans cover a significant percentage of fillings, root canals, and other necessary procedures. More expensive restorative treatments such as dental crowns and bridges are often covered at around 50 percent, depending on your plan. Cosmetic treatments are rarely covered.

Our clinic will either be classified as in-network or out-of-network by your dental insurance provider. For out-of-network insurance holders, patients may be responsible for the difference between our office fee and the allowable fee determined by your policy. Out-of-network insurance plans still provide benefits at our clinic.

If you have questions about which procedures are covered, one of our staff will be glad to contact your insurance company. Many procedures, especially more costly ones, require that insurance companies are pre-notified in advance of the treatment. By understanding how your dental insurance works, you can avoid unwanted surprises.

Our office also accepts Medicare for certain procedures.

Tips for getting the most out of your dental insurance include:

• Taking advantage of free cleanings (usually twice a year)
• Know the difference between HMO and PPO plans
• Stay in network whenever possible
• Schedule procedures to maximize benefits (while not exceeding maximum benefits)
• Shop around if you’re unhappy with your benefits

What Are My Options If I Don’t Have Insurance?

If you do not have dental insurance, you’re not alone. Nearly 25 percent of adults in the United States lack dental insurance. Not to worry, you still have several payment options at our clinic.

• Installment payments: Our office is glad to divide your treatment costs into small, affordable monthly payments.
• CareCredit: Millions of Americans have used CareCredit to pay for medical services. The zero interest financing option can be completed online at our Duncan, OK office. CareCredit is the trusted medical financing company of more than 200,000 healthcare providers across the United States. The application process usually only takes a few minutes.

Our office also accepts:

• Cash
• Personal Check
• Visa
• MasterCard
• American Express
• Discover

Contact Us Today

Affordability should not be the final determiner when deciding whether to seek dental treatments or not. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, we believe quality dental care can be attainable for everyone. Our staff will take the time to explain your payment options. We bill all dental insurance providers. If you have questions or concerns over dental insurance or other forms of financing, contact us online or call (580) 255-4880.

The post Paying for Care: Dental Insurance in Duncan OK appeared first on Chisholm Trail.