duncan OK Archives - Chisholm Trail https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/tag/duncan-ok/ Tue, 21 May 2024 16:04:06 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 How to Choose a Family Dentist in Duncan, OK: Part 1 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/family-dentist-duncan-ok/ Mon, 19 Jun 2023 16:01:43 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=11263 Selecting a dentist for your family can be stressful. Dad wants to be in and out of his checkups fast, one kid needs braces, another hates going to the dentist, and Mom just wants everyone to be happy and healthy. If you’re choosing a family dentist in Duncan, OK, these five questions will help guide…

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Selecting a dentist for your family can be stressful. Dad wants to be in and out of his checkups fast, one kid needs braces, another hates going to the dentist, and Mom just wants everyone to be happy and healthy. If you’re choosing a family dentist in Duncan, OK, these five questions will help guide your decision-making so that you can please everyone, including yourself!

A Note About New Patient Appointments: Parents commonly send their kids for an appointment with a new dentist before visiting the dentist themselves. We suggest the family decision-maker, Mom or Dad, be the first to visit a new dentist because a kid’s priorities are different than a parent’s.

Here’s an overview of questions to ask when looking for a family dentist in Duncan, OK:

  1. Are the support staff and dentist friendly, welcoming, and attentive to patient needs?
  2. Is the office on a route you normally travel?
  3. Does the dentist’s office accept your insurance?
  4. Are all the services your family needs available?
  5. Is after-hours emergency dentistry available for patients of record?

Now, let’s explore the intention behind these questions and customize the best answers for your family. (This is part one of a two-part blog.)

Are the support staff and dentist friendly, welcoming, and attentive to patient needs?

The only way to know this for sure is with a visit. You can call a dentist’s office and gauge how the front desk team serves patients over the phone. (Sometimes this is enough to strike through a potential dentist’s office.) However, you won’t really know if a dental team prioritizes patient service unless you visit the office as a patient. 

While you’re at a new patient exam, consider how your husband/wife and kids will feel under this particular dentist’s care. The dentist’s personality is a significant factor in whether your family will enjoy dental visits. Also, as for a special request, like a pillow or bottled water and see what happens. 

As a patient, also evaluate the gentleness and attentiveness of the dentist and assistant. After the clinical part of your visit, if you like the appointment so far, ask the dentist questions that will help you decide whether he/she is right for your family.

Is the office on a route you normally travel?

Making time for dental checkups and cleanings is difficult enough with busy schedules and lots of commitments. Finding a great dentist whose office is on or very near your regular daily driving route will make appointments more convenient. 

How often will you visit your dentist? You and your household members will always need six-month preventive denitstry appointments, and being able to book them back-to-back or simultaneously is a benefit you should inquire about. You may also need restorative procedures after your checkup, and those can take one to three appointments, in most cases. Restorative dentistry includes fillings, crowns, bridges, etc. Also, if someone in your family wants Invisalign treatment, you’ll need to visit the dentist every six weeks until treatment completion. 

Your Family Dentist in Duncan, OK: Dr. Matthew Bridges

Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at 580.255.4880 today, and schedule an introductory meeting with Dr. Bridges. You can get a checkup or consultation, experience our five-star service firsthand, and ask questions so that you can return home with answers for everyone. You love your family, and they deserve the best. We agree.

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Dentist at Chisholm Trail in Duncan, OK, Explains Mouth-Body Connection https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/dentist-at-chisholm-trail/ Fri, 24 Feb 2023 16:16:59 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=11190 The post Dentist at Chisholm Trail in Duncan, OK, Explains Mouth-Body Connection appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

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Protect your loved ones by learning about the mouth-body connection in this article by your dentist at Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges.

Your mouth facilitates entry of external elements into your body. It makes perfect sense, but have you really thought about it? Everything you put in your mouth, from foods to fingernails to your own toothbrush bring either good or bad elements into contact with your teeth, soft oral tissues, and potentially into your stomach and bloodstream. We call this the mouth-body connection.

Your family dentist should explain the mouth-body connection and its implications. Why? Because the mouth-body connection has a significant impact on whole-body health. 

“The mouth is a portal to the body,” says dentist at Chisholm Trail Smile Center.

Scientists discovered the mouth-body connection years ago and research continues to reveal new ways the mouth and body are intertwined. The bottom line is, your mouth is a portal to your body. 

When bacteria in the mouth feast on starches inside the oral biome, they release acids that weaken tooth enamel so that cavities (tooth decay or dental caries) form. Tooth decay is present, at some point, in 99% of humans, so it’s important that you understand the importance of balance in the oral biome (the atmosphere in your mouth). Good and bad bacteria, as well as pH levels, affect teeth, gums, and whole-body health.

All humans produce plaque, a sticky matrix of bacteria, saliva, and minerals that clings to teeth. Plaque carries bad bacteria that build up on and between teeth. Plaque that is not removed by brushing, flossing, or a professional dental cleaning, can irritate gum tissue and lead to the development of gum disease, which is the main cause of adult tooth loss. Researchers link gum disease to conditions like:

  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes complications
  • Low-weight birth
  • Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
  • Lung conditions

Furthermore, when the bacteria that cause tooth decay, called Streptococcus mutans, or simply S. mutans, enter the bloodstream through the mouth, a patient can develop endocarditis. This heart condition can be fatal if not treated.

However, if you practice good oral hygiene daily and visit Dr. Bridges, your dentist at Chisholm Trail Smile Center, twice a year for checkups and cleanings, you may avoid all of these symptoms and the destruction they cause on whole-body health.

Introducing outside elements to the body via the mouth has consequences. This listicle explains how specific elements affect oral and overall health.

Foods and Drinks

Avoid starches, including sugars, when possible. Certainly reduce your intake of sugars and bready foods, like breads, cereals, crackers, chips, and cookies. Foods and drinks with excessive starch feed oral bacteria. So, after you consume starches, thoroughly rinse your mouth with water afterward and don’t brush your teeth for at least a few hours. This will help your body re-establish healthy pH in the oral microbiome, while also hydrating and rinsing away bad bacteria.

Water

Our bodies are 55-60% water, and without proper hydration, the whole body suffers. Drink pure water throughout your day. Avoid sipping on sugary beverages. Limit any drink other than water to mealtimes or drink them through a straw to reduce contact with teeth and gums. 

Note that babies should only go to bed with a cup or bottle of water. Never put your child to bed with juice or milk. Babies and toddlers who fall asleep drinking anything but pure water, over time, may develop a painful condition called baby-bottle mouth syndrome. This condition involves severe tooth decay and requires extensive dental treatment to re-establish good oral health and reduce pain. 

Tobacco, Alcohol

Tobacco and alcohol cause dry mouth. (Alcohol also contains sugar.) In turn, dry mouth allows oral bacteria to reproduce rapidly. If you smoke cigarettes or dip tobacco, ask Dr. Bridges for help finding a cessation program. If you drink more than a few glasses of alcohol a day, consider cutting back for the health benefits. 

Medications

Some medications cause dry mouth, clinically known as xerostomia. If you experience dry mouth, purchase artificial saliva at your pharmacy. One brand, Biotene, comes in flavored spray, gel, and mouthwash. Keeping your mouth hydrated and salivated will reduce the amount of and reproduction of bad oral bacteria. 

Pen Caps, Fingernails, Toothpicks

Chewing on items not intended for your mouth can harm your teeth and gums. Furthermore, they may introduce germs into the oral microbiome and into your body. If you like the feeling of chewing, consider munching on sugarless gum. It can freshen your breath and aid in saliva production!

Your Own Toothbrush

Flushing an open toilet literally sends germs into the air via water particles. Studies show that these particles can land on nearby items, like your toothbrush. It’s best to keep a toothbrush in a drawer or zipper bag, and to close your toilet lid prior to flushing.

Also, replace your toothbrush every 90 days or so, because when bristles soften and fray brushing becomes less effective.

Bacteria & Brushing

How can you get rid of bad bacteria and keep it from entering your stomach and blood stream? We need bacteria in the oral microbiome, but it’s beneficial to reduce the amount of bad oral bacteria. Daily brushing and flossing do the job

Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste (unfluoridated for kids under three years old). Floss once a day. Also consider using a tongue scraper to remove plaque on your tongue. An antibacterial mouthwash will help control the level of bad bacteria in your oral microbiome, as well.

Need a dentist at Chisholm Trail who will educate you and your family about oral health?

Call on Dr. Bridges, your dentist at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. Visit us online at www.chilsholmtrailsmilecenter.com or call 580-255-4880. 

 

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Five Reasons to Book a Teeth Cleaning Appointment Right Now https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/five-reasons-to-book-a-teeth-cleaning-appointment-right-now/ Fri, 12 Nov 2021 23:46:37 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=6132 The post Five Reasons to Book a Teeth Cleaning Appointment Right Now appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

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Unless something is wrong with your teeth or you have a particular medical treatment, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that people visit their general dentist every six months. While we recognize that it can be challenging to fit a dentist appointment in an already jam-packed schedule, maintaining oral health is crucial for staying healthy. If it’s been over six months since your last dentist’s appointment, it’s time to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment, and here’s why: 

1. You want to maintain excellent overall health.

Since the 19th century, doctors have believed that oral bacteria contributes to diseases throughout the body. Doctors have discovered that there is an association between periodontal diseases and:

  • Cardiovascular health
  • Stroke
  • Diabetes
  • Pneumonia
  • Adverse pregnancy outcomes

What is the link between the mouth and systemic diseases? Many medical professionals hypothesize that inflammation is to blame. Oral health is indispensable to general wellness, and you cannot be well without managing oral health. Regular dental exams and cleanings help manage disease not only in the mouth but in other bodily systems too.

2. You want to avoid cavities.

One reason why dentists recommend a dental cleaning and exam every six months is that this is around the time that it takes cavities to develop. If a dentist catches the development of tooth decay before it gets too severe, it can be treated early with a filling. However, if the cavity gets too significant or widespread, a root canal or worse may be required.

3. You want to prevent periodontal (gum) disease.

Did you know that nearly half of adults aged 30 or older have some form of gum disease? Prevalence only increases with age. Even though periodontal disease is common, the early stages often go unnoticed. When left untreated, gum disease can lead to gum recession, tooth loss, and other conditions. Fortunately, periodontal disease is preventable with routine dental visits. 

4. You need to freshen your breath.

Halitosis, or chronic bad breath, can be caused by a diet of pungent foods, specific health conditions, or certain medications with side effects of dry mouth. Another common culprit of bad breath is bacteria trapped between teeth and gums, particularly tartar accumulation. After a dental hygienist carefully removes tartar, the breath should smell fresh again.

5. You want to save money in the long run.

By monitoring oral health, it’s more likely that patients can prevent developing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health diseases. By preventing or managing the early oral health conditions, the need for more expensive and extensive dental treatments (such as tooth extraction, root canal, or gum surgery) is not likely needed. The wisest way to avoid costly treatments later is to invest in your smile now by attending routine dental cleaning and exams every six months. Dental cleaning sessions are relatively affordable, and most insurance plans cover the cost of two annually.

Ready to Schedule Your Next Teeth Cleaning?

Preventative dentistry can go a long way toward saving you from going through discomfort, disease, and expensive procedures. At the Chisholm Trail Smile Center, our team of dental hygienists practices gentle dental cleanings and exams to preserve the integrity of teeth and gums. Schedule a dental cleaning appointment in Duncan, OK, by calling 580-255-4880 or sending us a message online.

 

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Are natural-looking dentures possible? https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/are-natural-looking-dentures-possible/ Tue, 12 Oct 2021 15:29:42 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=5510 As a child, losing teeth was exciting because the tooth fairy visited.  As an adult, losing one tooth or several teeth is less than exciting; it’s actually a scary and unfortunate thing!  In the past, most people’s resistance to false teeth revolved around the fact that they just looked … well, fake. The teeth and…

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As a child, losing teeth was exciting because the tooth fairy visited. 

As an adult, losing one tooth or several teeth is less than exciting; it’s actually a scary and unfortunate thing! 

In the past, most people’s resistance to false teeth revolved around the fact that they just looked … well, fake. The teeth and gums appeared plastic or they fit strangely and stuck out of the patient’s mouth.

But like most technologies, denture technology has vastly improved over the years. When made with skill and care, today’s dentures can look as natural as the teeth you were born with. 

Whether you need partial dentures or a whole new mouth full of teeth will depend on what types of dental and oral issues you contend with. 

Another consideration is to decide if they will be removable or fixed and intended to stay in your mouth forever. 

Both have their benefits and drawbacks. Either way, here are some things to discuss with your dentist if you want your dentures to look as natural as possible: 

Begin With Quality Materials 

Dentures made from cheap materials look like old-fashioned, low-quality dentures. In some dentures, the gums and teeth are made from the same materials, a  type of plastic. To distinguish between the two, the teeth and gums are colored differently to match a more natural appearance, but in some cases, they still look fake. 

Natural gums and teeth have different textures, so should quality dentures.  

Modern dentures are crafted from a variety of materials, similar to those used in porcelain veneers. This gives the modern dentures the same look as natural teeth. Today’s modern materials can even mimic the translucent look of natural gums.

Color Options to Match You

Your natural smile is unique, so your denture should be as well. The team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center can color-match the gums and teeth to make your new smile appear as natural as possible. If you want a smile upgrade, it may be helpful to look at photos to help you choose colors that you think look healthy, beautiful, and natural. 

Shape of Teeth

In the past, dentures were often mass produced, giving all of the teeth the same shape. This created a “perfect” but unnatural appearance.

Modern, high-quality dentures can be individually designed to match the shape and character of your natural teeth. This customization option provides an opportunity to restore the original beautiful smile or create a new look altogether. 

Finding a Comfortable Fit

Probably the most important factor in making sure your dentures look real is ensuring a perfect fit. Not only are poorly fitted dentures uncomfortable, but they also look out of place in your mouth. While cheap dentures used to come in standardized sizes, modern, natural dentures are custom fit to each patient. 

Whether partial or full, permanent or removable, making dentures both fashionable and functional is key to giving you back your natural smile and the confidence it provides. 

Natural Looking Dentures in Duncan, OK

Don’t let your fears of fake looking dentures keep you from the strong and confident smile you deserve. Dr. Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center can help. Contact us online or by phone at 580-255-4880 today. 

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Dentist vs. Orthodontist: Who should you visit? https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/dentist-vs-orthodontist-who-should-you-visit/ Tue, 21 Sep 2021 20:20:14 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=4934 What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? Both dentists and orthodontists are knowledgeable and equipped to handle oral health problems. However, general dentists focus on maintaining oral wellness, and orthodontists specialize in aligning the teeth and jaw. Before people decide where they should set up their next appointment, they must determine what services…

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What’s the difference between a dentist and an orthodontist? Both dentists and orthodontists are knowledgeable and equipped to handle oral health problems. However, general dentists focus on maintaining oral wellness, and orthodontists specialize in aligning the teeth and jaw.

Before people decide where they should set up their next appointment, they must determine what services are needed and which type of dentist can help fulfill those services. Here are three critical differences between dentists and orthodontists:

Education

Dentists and orthodontists receive a similar baseline education, but orthodontists require an additional few years of schooling.

Every dentist has a dental degree, which typically includes:

  • Four years of undergrad
  • Four years of dental school
  • Practical exams

After receiving their accredited dental degrees, dentists have DDS (Doctor of Dental Surgery), or DMD (Doctor of Dental Surgery) tagged at the end of their name.

In addition to a dental degree, an orthodontist also has a specialized orthodontic degree. Before becoming board-certified, orthodontists also complete a supplementary two-to-three-year residency and over 4,000 hours of orthodontic training.

Treatment Focus

According to the American Dental Association, about 80% of dentists practice what’s known as “general dentistry.” General dentists focus on oral health by diagnosing and treating dental and gum disease. Additionally, dentists can enhance the appearance of teeth through cosmetic methods, such as whitening.

Orthodontists specialize in dental development, occlusion (alignment), and facial growth. Their job is to gently move the teeth and jaw into a more desired alignment to improve health and aesthetics.

Think of your dentist as a general practitioner you should see often and an orthodontist as a specialist you would visit during treatment for a few years. Not everyone needs to see an orthodontist, but visiting the general dentist at least twice per year helps prevent disease and keeps the mouth healthy.

Services

General dentists treat a variety of dental issues and apply preventive, restorative, and cosmetic techniques to improve smiles and oral health:

  • Preventive dentistry is a broad umbrella term for treatments designed to avert oral health conditions. Preventive dental visits typically consist of professional cleaning from a dental hygienist, patient education to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, and oral cancer screening. They may also manage periodontal (gum) disease through scaling and root planing and TMJ disorders by fabricating custom mouth guards.
  • Restorative dentistry focuses on reinstating teeth to their former glory. Dentists treat cavities and damaged teeth with fillings and root canal therapy. In extreme cases, they extract and replace teeth with dental implants and prostheses, including crowns, bridges, and dentures.
  • Cosmetic dental techniques center on improving the smile’s appearance, and services include teeth whitening, veneers, and dental contouring.

Orthodontists are dentists that specialize in the alignment of teeth and provide services related to:

  • Misaligned teeth
  • Crowded teeth
  • Gapped teeth
  • Overbite
  • Underbite

Even though they are also dentists, orthodontists strictly provide orthodontic services, including supervising facial growth, creating treatment plans for braces and retainers, and installing orthodontic appliances.

When to See an Orthodontist vs. Dentist

If you’re still unsure if you should visit a dentist or an orthodontist, an excellent first step is to visit a general dentist. After examining your teeth, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges may refer you to an orthodontist for further orthodontic treatment, if necessary. Message us online or call us at 580-255-4880 today to schedule a dental appointment in Duncan, OK.

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Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Staining: How to Whiten Both https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/extrinsic-vs-intrinsic-staining-how-to-whiten-both/ Mon, 23 Aug 2021 19:34:05 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=4296 If you’re unsatisfied with the way your teeth look, they don’t have to stay like that forever. Professional teeth whitening is exceptional for treating superficial stains, but veneers can hide deeper discoloration. Depending on the type of staining you’re experiencing, there are cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help. Extrinsic Staining As we age and experience…

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If you’re unsatisfied with the way your teeth look, they don’t have to stay like that forever. Professional teeth whitening is exceptional for treating superficial stains, but veneers can hide deeper discoloration.

Depending on the type of staining you’re experiencing, there are cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help.

Extrinsic Staining

As we age and experience life, the enamel (surface of the teeth) darkens and appears less white. Diet contributes to extrinsic staining the most. Coffee, tea, dark-colored sodas, wine, and naturally and artificially dyed foods change the color of our enamel. Chewing and smoking tobacco products can also contribute to surface-level staining. Surface-level discoloration is categorized as extrinsic staining.

Even though extrinsic stains aren’t as permanent as intrinsic stains, they don’t usually respond to regular brushing or over-the-counter whitening products, such as whitening strips.

In-Office Whitening

In-office teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry treatment and can dramatically lessen surface-level staining. Professional teeth whitening treatments are fast, effective, and long-lasting.  Zoom!® in-office teeth whitening treatments can brighten teeth up to eight shades in just 45 minutes.

Here’s how our dental team whitens the teeth:

  1. A dental hygienist thoroughly cleans the mouth and polishes the teeth.
  2. The dentist checks the current shade of the teeth.
  3. They’ll apply a layer of advanced whitening gel to the teeth.
  4. A blue LED lamp is applied to the teeth to accelerate the whitening process comfortably.
  5. Steps two through four are repeated three times.
  6. Once you’ve reached the desired shade, the dentist applies post-treatment gel to protect the enamel and reduce sensitivity.

The dentist may prescribe custom whitening trays and a take-home whitening kit to touch up the brightness of your smile whenever you want to.

At-Home Whitening

Not all at-home whitening treatments are the same, but Opalescence® by Ultradent is a proven take-home whitening system. The dentist fabricates a customized bleaching tray and provides a patented low-concentration peroxide-based gel. Typically, patients wear their tray for 15 minutes to one hour per day for about two weeks. After several sessions of this peroxide-based gel formula, Opalescence can dramatically brighten teeth as much as in-office whitening treatments.

To preserve whitening effects, avoid stain-causing drinks, food, and habits:

  • Coffee, tea, red wine, and any bright-colored drinks can discolor enamel.
  • Natural and artificial food coloring can stain teeth.
  • Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause yellowing and browning effects.

If you must indulge in these things, rinse or brush your teeth immediately afterward. Our dentist may also prescribe medication for home use that helps with the whitening process.

Intrinsic Staining

Intrinsic staining darkens the dentin (inner dental issue). Genetics, trauma, fluorosis, and certain medications cause intrinsic staining. Veneers and crowns can improve the appearance of deep staining that does not respond to traditional whitening treatment.

Veneers

These wafer-thin, color-matched restorations camouflage deep staining. Dentists permanently bond veneers to the front of the teeth. They are completely customizable in shape and color so that they blend seamlessly with adjacent teeth.

Crowns

If the tooth is discolored due to oral trauma, a crown may be necessary. Crowns differ from veneers because they fully encase the entire visible portion of the teeth (not just the front). Dental crowns, or caps, rebuild the dental structure to improve the appearance and protect it from infection or further damage.

It’s Time to Improve the Look of Your Smile

Professional whitening can create dramatic results quickly, safely, and effectively. Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to learn more about how to whiten your teeth. Call 580-244-4880 or contact us online today.

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Your Guide to Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/your-guide-to-teeth-whitening-in-duncan-ok/ Wed, 07 Jul 2021 06:46:00 +0000 https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/?p=3770 Did you know that teeth whitening has been practiced for thousands of years? The ancient Egyptians used to grind pumice stones and mix them with vinegar to create a tooth whitening paste.  More recently, dentists in the 1950s used to ask their patients to gargle with hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria. The side effect of…

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Did you know that teeth whitening has been practiced for thousands of years? The ancient Egyptians used to grind pumice stones and mix them with vinegar to create a tooth whitening paste. 

More recently, dentists in the 1950s used to ask their patients to gargle with hydrogen peroxide to kill bacteria. The side effect of this practice was sparkling teeth. Thus, a $6 billion industry was born. 

What dental patients may not know is that DIY home whitening kits are much less effective than professionally supervised treatments. To learn more about teeth whitening, keep reading. 

Types of Tooth Discoloration

There are two types of tooth stains: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains come from outside sources like carbonated beverages, tea, coffee, and wine. These foods affect the external part of the tooth and teeth whitening is an effective treatment in this case. 

Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, affect teeth on a deeper level. They may stem from medications like Benadryl or antipsychotics, or they may be hereditary in nature. These deep stains do not respond to teeth whitening and may require veneers.

In-House Treatment or Take-Home KIts: Which is better?

Dentists want to help their patients boost their confidence with professional teeth whitening treatments. If patients would like to receive treatment in the office, they will see results right away. Professional whitening can make teeth up to eight shades lighter in about one hour. 

This transformation is possible because in-office whitening treatments have five times the amount of hydrogen peroxide as an over-the-counter whitening toothpaste. 

Another option for whitening treatment is a take-home kit. These are stronger than the kits available in stores but take two weeks to achieve in-office results. The outcome is the same, so the choice is up to the patient. 

How to Maintain a Dazzling Smile After Teeth Whitening

Stains from food will build up again over time, and patients will need teeth whitening treatments every six months or so. After a teeth whitening session, patients should avoid red wine, coffee, and cigarettes for at least 48 hours. 

Instead, they should follow the “white diet.” They can eat a variety of white foods including: 

  • White fish
  • Turkey or chicken
  • Cauliflower
  • Pasta, rice, and bread
  • Egg whites
  • Potatoes
  • Milk

Dentists no longer recommend that their patients gargle with hydrogen peroxide, but there are medical-grade mouthwashes that can help keep smiles shining. Ideally, patients will cut back on smoking and drinking beverages like wine, soda, and tomato juice. 

Teeth whitening is not known for having adverse side effects, but patients may experience some gum inflammation right after treatment. Their teeth may be more sensitive for up to 24 hours after treatment. 

If you think you’re a good candidate for teeth whitening in Duncan, OK, talk to your dentist. They will help you decide which type of whitening treatment would be best for you.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK

Ready to boost your smile and your confidence? Dr. Matthew L. Bridges can help! 
Call us at (580) 255-4880 to schedule an initial consultation and discuss your teeth whitening options.

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“Bridge” the Gap in Your Smile https://chisholmtrailsmilecenter.com/bridge-the-gap-in-your-smile/ Sat, 03 Aug 2019 17:08:13 +0000 https://connorburnettmusic.com/chisholmtrail-2/?p=1278 The post “Bridge” the Gap in Your Smile appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

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If you are missing one, two, or a few adjacent teeth, our Duncan, OK dental office can customize a restorative treatment to meet your needs. Dr. Matthew Bridges provides quality dental care in a comfortable environment. If you have questions about the benefits of dental implants vs a traditional bridge, this overview will help guide you toward the best choice for your oral and cosmetic needs. 

Dental Implants vs Traditional Bridge: Which Option Is Right for Me?

Dental implants and traditional bridges have unique restorative benefits. During your consultation at our Duncan dental practice, Dr. Bridges will explain each treatment option in detail. 

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a row of artificial teeth that is connected to your jaw through two dental crowns. The one-piece restoration is crafted from a material that will match the color and luster of your natural teeth. Before your bridge can be placed, two teeth on other either side of the gap in your smile will need to be reduced in size. Dental bridges are typically placed in two visits to our dental office. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium posts that replace lost tooth roots. If you choose to undergo this safe and life-changing procedure, Dr. Bridges will refer you to a trusted oral surgeon. Once your implant has fully healed, Dr. Bridges will place a custom dental crown on your implant. 

Factors to Consider with Both Options

There are several factors to consider when choosing a restoration for missing teeth. If you are looking for a treatment that can be completed within a few weeks, you may be a better candidate for a dental bridge. After your first visit to have two teeth resized, your dental bridge can be manufactured in only a few weeks.

Dental implant placement requires three to six months of healing before your final crown can be placed. Implants are also a more expensive treatment option compared to dental bridges. Although there is a larger investment of time and money, many patients report that implant-retained restoration feel and function like natural teeth. There is also the added benefit of preventing jawbone recession. Implants stimulate jawbone tissue and promote bone growth.

Both treatment options prevent tooth drifting while restoring oral function. Our office also offers implant-retained bridges that combine the benefits of both restorative treatments. After you have undergone either of these procedures, it will be crucial to maintain good oral hygiene habits. Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, but the titanium posts can only function when surrounded by healthy jawbone tissue. Similarly, a traditional bridge requires that the two supporting teeth remain healthy. Preventing gum disease will play an important role in ensuring that either restoration has a long lifespan. 

Schedule Your Restorative Treatment Today

Still not sure which option will work best for you? Not to worry. Dr. Bridges has many years of experience helping patients find the perfect restoration that meets their budget and needs. If you are tired of having an unsightly gap in your smile, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with our staff online or by calling (580) 255-4880.

The post “Bridge” the Gap in Your Smile appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

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