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.

Dr. Matthew Bridges is passionate about patient education to make sure this condition is better understood. Furthermore, at Chisholm Trail Smile Center, he can diagnose and treat temporomandibular disorders with effective, non-invasive care.

If you suffer from the symptoms of TMD, contact our office today.

What is TMD?

Temporomandibular disorders are a group of disorders that affect the jaw joints and muscles. In some cases, it may involve joint dysfunction, such as a slipped disc or bone injury. In other cases, muscle inflammation may be the main concern. Patients can also suffer from both joint and muscle problems.

TMD is quite common. An estimated 11 to 12 million US adults suffer from one of these conditions.

What’s the difference between TMJ and TMD?

The TMJ is the temporomandibular joint, located on each side of the jaw. TMD is a temporomandibular disorder, affecting those joints.

What causes the condition?

TMD can arise for many different reasons. Facial trauma or injuries to the TMJs are one cause. Excessive jaw strain, due to chronic teeth grinding, can also lead to TMD. 

In many cases, the exact cause is unclear, but there are certain risk factors. For instance, women are more likely to suffer than men. Genetics and stress can also play a role. 

How long does TMD last?

It can last a few days, a few weeks, or many years. Sometimes it can go away on its own. Quite frequently, however, the condition will flare up periodically, especially in times of stress. 

Fortunately, once patients seek treatment, discomfort often disappears after a few days!

Is TMD serious?

These disorders are not life threatening, but they can take a huge toll on your quality of life. Symptoms include: 

• Frequent headaches
• Jaw stiffness
• Facial pain
• Ear pain
• Tinnitus
• Neck and shoulder pain 
• Popping in the jaw joints
• Dizziness
• Pain or difficulty when eating

Moreover, temporomandibular disorders can seriously affect your bite and cause lasting damage to your teeth. In severe cases, eating may be restricted, and you could suffer from nutrient deficiency. 75% of surveyed patients report altering their diet in response to jaw pain.

What are my treatment options?

Dr. Bridges typically begins with a combination of simple, convenient treatments. In most cases, he will provide an oral appliance. This will reposition your jaw and alleviate pressure on your TMJs while you sleep. He may also suggest anti-inflammatory medications, jaw exercises, muscle relaxants, and lifestyle changes.  

If you have particularly severe TMD, Dr. Bridges may refer you to an orthodontist or oral surgeon.

Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Bridges Today

Contact us to learn more about TMD and find out what is causing your jaw pain. 

You can reach our Duncan, OK, office online, or you can give us a call at 580-255-4880.

The post Everything You Should Know about TMD appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we help our patients get healthy, strong, and beautiful smiles with preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental options. If you’re ready to meet Dr. Matthew L Bridges and his Duncan, OK, team, then request your appointment at (580) 255-4880 or online here.

While you’re waiting for your appointment, let our team answer some of your dental care FAQs. This information could help you keep your smile healthy for life!

How often should I brush and floss?

Many patients believe that dentists want us to brush and floss after every snack or meal. But, for most patients, brushing and flossing after every morsel of food isn’t time effective. Not only that, but over-brushing can wear away tooth enamel faster, which may lead to tooth sensitivity and cavities.

The American Dental Association states that twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing is enough to keep your mouth healthy between dental visits.

Should I be using mouthwash?

For many patients, mouthwash is a little-considered oral hygiene product. However, mouthwashes come in many varieties, making them a versatile and powerful tool in your dental hygiene routine.

So, while brushing and flossing are the main stars of oral care, mouthwashes can be helpful to:

• Prevent cavities
• Remineralize teeth
• Reduce odor-causing bacteria
• Moisturize dry mouths

Is my diet causing cavities and gum disease?

A staggering 6 billion bacteria call the human mouth home. While not all of these bacteria are ‘bad’, a high-sugar, acidic diet could encourage harmful bacteria to grow out of control. And, when harmful bacteria accumulate, cavities and gum disease are sure to follow.

So, if your diet consists of sugary and acidic foods, then you might notice painfully swollen gums and increased cavity rates. To promote optimal oral health, Dr. Bridges recommends a diet rich in:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Lean proteins
• Healthy fats
• Probiotic foods

Research suggests that naturally probiotic foods (like yogurt) noticeably improve the signs and symptoms of gum disease. So, if you want a healthy mouth, then eat a well-rounded diet with plenty of probiotics!

How often do I need to see a dentist?

Preventive dental care is the best dental care. Therefore, most dentists recommend routine exams and dental cleanings at least every six months. 

However, every patient is different, which means that they should plan dental visits around their own unique needs. For example, cavity-prone patients should consider scheduling dental cleanings more often than other patients. So, rather than getting dental cleanings twice a year, these patients may need them three or four times a year.

Our dentist at Chisholm Trail will gladly help you strategize and plan dental care that meets all of your needs.

Been a while? Schedule a dental cleaning now!

If you haven’t seen a dentist in at least six months, then it’s time to schedule an appointment with our dentist at Chisholm Trail Smile Center now. Patients can send our team a message here, or they may call our dental office at (580) 255-4880 to request their appointments.

The post Our Dentist at Chisholm Trail Answers Four Dental Care FAQs appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

If you’d like to speak with our dedicated dentist in Duncan, OK, then schedule an appointment now. Patients can easily request an appointment online, or they may call our office directly at (580) 255-4880.

Now, let’s get into some surprising dental facts that just might blow your mind (and make you want to brush your teeth!).

Tooth Enamel Is the Hardest Material In the Human Body

Tooth enamel is the protective layer on the outer surface of our teeth. It consists of nearly 96% minerals (like calcium and phosphate), making it even more durable than bone tissue. 

However, this does not mean that tooth enamel is immune to damage. Trauma, tooth grinding, and even sugary and acidic foods can damage tooth enamel over time. So, avoid damaging behaviors, practice good oral hygiene, and visit our dentist in Duncan, OK, every six months to protect your tooth enamel.

The Human Mouth Contains Billions of Bacteria

Experts believe that nearly 700 species of bacteria inhabit our mouths, which adds up to an unbelievable six billion bacteria in our oral cavities at any given time. Do these numbers make you feel queasy? You’re not alone!

But, these bacteria create an intricate microbiome that works to keep our mouths and bodies healthy. So, while it might make you feel weird to have billions of bacteria in your mouth, they are actually working tirelessly to keep you healthy and safe. 

You Might Have Gum Disease Without Knowing It

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), almost half of all Americans over the age of 30 have some form of gum disease. And, oftentimes, the people who have gum disease don’t even know that they have it. 

Our dentist in Duncan, OK, refers to gum disease (also called periodontal disease) as a silent disease. This is because the initial symptoms are frequently so minimal and unnoticeable that patients don’t know that they have the disease until it is too late.

If you haven’t visited a dentist in Duncan, OK, within the past year, then contact our team as soon as possible for a dental checkup and cleaning.

Dentistry Has Been Around for Millennia

Preserved remains from Egypt and Rome indicate that ancient civilizations pioneered effective methods to treat and manage cavities. Using materials like resin and bronze, these civilizations were able to prevent dental decay from spreading, which allowed them to keep their natural teeth longer.

Most People Don’t Brush Long Enough

We’ve all heard that we are supposed to brush our teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. But, research suggests that most people are only brushing for approximately 45 seconds when they do brush.

Our dentist in Duncan, OK, recommends setting a two-minute timer or listening to your favorite song for two minutes while you brush. And don’t forget to floss!

Schedule an Appointment with Our Dentist in Duncan, OK

Are you ready to meet our compassionate dentist in Duncan, OK? Then, schedule your appointment now by calling our team at (580) 255-4880 or by requesting it online.

The post Five Shocking Facts about Teeth and Dentistry with Our Dentist in Duncan, OK appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Dr. Bridges and our compassionate team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center want you to have a strong and healthy smile. We may recommend dentures if you are missing several or more teeth, but the type we recommend will depend on other factors like:

• How many teeth you’re missing
• Your overall physical and oral health
• Tooth sensitivity
• Jawbone health

Choosing the right type of dentures for you is an important step, and we want you to have all of the information you need to feel confident in your decision. To help you stay informed, here are the pros and cons of common types of dentures. 

Traditional Dentures 

When you think of dentures, chances are you picture traditional ones. Traditional dentures are removable replacements for an entire arch of missing teeth. They are supported by your gum tissue and bone and may be held in place with a dental adhesive.

Pros

• Traditional dentures restore the look of your smile.
• This style of denture is relatively affordable.
• The process only takes a few weeks to complete.

Cons

• They may limit some of the foods you can eat.
• They require adhesive which can be messy and inconvenient.
• They do not prevent bone loss in your jaw.

In summary, the traditional options restore much of the appearance and function of your teeth, but they do not prevent the bone deterioration that occurs with tooth loss.

Partial Dentures

For patients who are missing just a few teeth, partials are a good option. These are similar to traditional prosthetics but are not meant to replace an entire set of teeth. They are also supported by the gums and jaw but may also use dental clasps for added stability.

Pros

• Partials are easy to adapt to.
• If needed, they can be adjusted to add teeth.
• They are minimally invasive and relatively affordable.

Cons

• Partial dentures also do not prevent bone loss, and deterioration at the site can affect other teeth.
• They may cause a buildup of plaque around the adjacent teeth.
• Adjacent teeth may suffer trauma from the movement or pressure of the partial.

Since partial implants must be removed at night, they can negatively impact the teeth on either side of them. They are also not as stable as implant-supported dentures.

Implant-Supported Dentures

With a patient satisfaction rate of over 99%, dental implants are the most reliable method for anchoring restorative dental prosthetics. Implant-supported dentures are attached to titanium posts that act as a replacement for the roots of your missing teeth.

Pros

• Implant-supported prosthetics are a stable, permanent solution to tooth loss.
• They don’t restrict your diet.
• Since the posts act as a natural root, they stimulate the jaw bone and prevent bone recession.

Cons

• The process for obtaining dental implants can be lengthy.
• They are a more expensive option than traditional or partial dentures.
• The osseointegration process may take a long time.

If you choose implant-supported dentures, Dr. Bridges will recommend a specialist to place your implants. After that, we will create and attach your personalized prosthetics.

Learn More About Dentures in Duncan, OK

Bring back your confidence with a beautiful and functional smile! Visit our knowledgeable and caring team for expert dental care. To learn more about dentures or to schedule a consultation, call 580-255-4880 or contact us online to start your journey today!

The post The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Dentures appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Dr. Matthew Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center is a highly experienced and compassionate Duncan dentist. He is dedicated to working with anxious patients to provide dental care that is stress-free so you don’t avoid the dentist and risk oral health problems.

To help you stay informed about the health and safety of your teeth, here are 8 facts you should know about tooth decay.

1. Bacteria cause tooth decay.

There are both good and bad bacteria in the mouth. A healthy mouth has a balanced oral microbiome. An unhealthy mouth has an excess of bad bacteria that cause tooth decay. These bacteria mix with the food we eat to form plaque that clings to our teeth. The plaque then creates acids that erode the enamel and lead to cavities.

2. Excessive sugar intake increases your risk of cavities.

Because the bacteria feed on sugar and starch, eating a lot of sugary snacks greatly increases your risk of developing tooth decay. Soda, alcohol, citrus fruits, bread, and candy are just a few of the foods and drinks you should limit to protect your enamel.

3. Decay is more common than you think.

Tooth decay causes significant pain and suffering and affects a lot of the population. Despite being preventable, dental caries (tooth decay) is one of the most common diseases. Research has shown that 92% of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 have had tooth decay in at least one of their permanent teeth.

4. Babies and toddlers can also have tooth decay.

Adults are not the only ones who can get cavities. Babies and toddlers are at an increased risk for tooth decay because they are given bottles and sippy cups. Drinking juice or taking a bottle before bed can cause cavities in young children since the sugars remain on their teeth overnight. 

5. Symptoms may vary.

Depending on the severity and location of the tooth decay, you may experience a range of different symptoms. These might include:

• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet
• Surface stains that are white, brown, or black
• A toothache or severe tooth pain
• Visible pits in your teeth
• An abscess from an infection

However, you may not experience any symptoms at all during the early stages of dental decay, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there. Routine visits to your Duncan dentist are the best way to catch tooth decay early before it becomes severe.

6. If left untreated, complications can be fatal.

If you seek treatment right away, it is unlikely that your long-term health will be in any danger. However, infections can arise from untreated dental decay. If these infections spread to the brain, they can cause death in severe cases.

7. Treatment depends on severity.

The best option for treating tooth decay depends on how advanced it is. A few common treatment options are:

• Fluoride treatment. This option works best if you are in the very early stages of dental decay. Fluoride can help your enamel repair itself and reverse the decaying process.
• Fillings. A dental filling is when amalgam or composite resin is used to fill in and seal the parts of a tooth that have suffered from decay. Dr. Bridges and his dental team in Duncan, OK are experienced in placing fillings to keep your smile healthy.
• Root canal treatment. If the damage has spread to the pulp inside your tooth, you may need a root canal procedure. Your dentist will clear the decayed pulp and then clean and fill the inside of the tooth and root. Then you will be fitted with a permanent crown to protect the tooth from further damage.

8. Tooth decay is preventable.

You can take action to prevent tooth decay and keep your teeth strong and healthy. Here are the best ways to prevent cavities: 

• Brush and floss regularly
• Eat healthy, balanced meals
• Cut-out tobacco products
• Visit the dentist every six months for regular check-ups and cleanings

Tooth Decay Treatment From Our Dentist in Duncan, OK

Tooth decay does not go away on its own. The only way to properly take care of damage from dental decay is to visit the dentist as soon as possible.

For quality service in a relaxing environment, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Call our office at 580-255-4880 today to schedule an appointment.

The post 8 Facts You Should Know About Tooth Decay from a Duncan Dentist appeared first on Chisholm Trail.