Looking for a trusted family dentist in Duncan, OK? Look no further than Dr. Matthew Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center! Dr. Bridges and his team of experts are here to help you get a happier, healthier smile just in time for the holidays. Call (580) 255-4880 for an appointment now!

The Sugar Attack: How It Happens

When you eat sugary treats, the sugar doesn’t directly harm your teeth. Instead, it feeds harmful microbes in your mouth. 

These bacteria thrive on sugar, producing acids as they digest it. These acids then destroy your tooth enamel, which is the dense, protective layer on the surface of your teeth. 

While enamel is tough, it’s not invincible. Over time, too much sugar can weaken this layer, leading to cavities and tooth decay.

The Holiday Sugar Trap

Sticky holiday treats like caramel, candy canes, and gummy candies cling to teeth and are hard to wash away with saliva alone. This prolonged exposure gives the bacteria in your mouth more time to feast on sugar, allowing them to create more acid and causing more harm.

According to our family dentist in Duncan, OK, even drinks like hot chocolate or festive punch can coat your teeth in sugar, creating an ideal environment for cavity-causing bacteria to flourish.

Acid and Enamel Erosion

Once enamel wears away, it doesn’t regenerate. Weakened enamel makes teeth more susceptible to cavities and sensitivity, making it painful to enjoy hot cocoa or ice-cold drinks.

If you’ve noticed that your teeth feel sensitive around the holidays, our family dentist in Duncan, OK, says it could be from indulging in too many sweets.

Sugar and Plaque: The Dynamic Duo

When sugar teams up with plaque (a tacky-feeling film of bacteria on your teeth) it can be especially harmful. Plaque provides a home for bacteria and keeps them close to your teeth. If plaque isn’t removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can lead to gum disease. 

So, not only can sugar lead to cavities, but it can also contribute to gum issues, which affect the health and appearance of your smile.

How to Enjoy Holiday Sweets Without Sacrificing Your Smile

Here are a few tips from our family dentist in Duncan, OK, to protect your teeth while still indulging:

• Rinse and Swish: After enjoying sweets, wash away sugar and bacteria by rinsing and swishing with clean water.
• Brush and Floss: But don’t brush and floss right away! Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, recommends waiting about 30 minutes after eating sugary foods to remove plaque and sugar buildup.
• Choose Wisely: If possible, opt for treats that are less sticky or acidic. Chocolate, for example, is easier to rinse away than sticky candy.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps rinse your mouth and reduce sugar’s effects.

Get Holiday-ready with Our Family Dentist in Duncan, OK!

This holiday season, keep your smile shining by enjoying treats in moderation, following good oral hygiene habits, and visiting our family dentist in Duncan, OK, for a check-up. Schedule your appointment here, or call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 to get started!

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In general, it’s best to visit a dentist in Duncan, OK, every six months to avoid preventable issues. If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, it’s time to call Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Just call (580) 255-4880 to schedule your check-up today!

Even if you visit the dentist regularly, you might encounter some issues before your next regularly scheduled appointment. So, in today’s blog, our Duncan dentist reveals six signs that a dental check-up is due.

1. You’re Experiencing Tooth Sensitivity

Have you ever felt a sharp twinge when sipping a hot cup of coffee or biting into an ice cream cone? Tooth sensitivity can indicate an issue like tooth decay or enamel erosion. 

While it might be tempting to brush it off, sensitivity is a clear sign that you need a dental check-up. Dr. Bridges can pinpoint the cause and offer solutions to make those pesky zingers disappear.

2. Bleeding Gums

If your gums turn bloody when you brush or floss, it’s time to take notice. Bleeding gums are often a symptom of gum disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to more serious oral and systemic health problems, including cardiovascular and neurological damage. 

A dental check-up with Dr. Bridges allows our team to assess the health of your gums and provide treatment to keep your smile healthy and pain-free.

3. Persistent Bad Breath

Bad breath can be a sign of dental issues like gum disease, tooth decay, or even an infection. If you’re dealing with chronic bad breath despite your best brushing and flossing efforts, a dental check-up is the best way to figure out what’s causing it. Preventive dentistry can help tackle these problems before they escalate.

4. You Have a Toothache

A toothache can feel like a small annoyance, but it often signals a bigger problem. Whether it’s a cavity, infection, or a cracked tooth, a dental check-up is necessary to find the root cause. 

The sooner you address the toothache, the sooner you can get back to enjoying your day without pain. Remember, a toothache never solves itself – let Dr. Bridges help!

5. It’s Been More Than Six Months

Preventive care, including routine cleanings and exams, is the foundation of a healthy smile. So, if you can’t remember the last time you had a dental check-up, that’s a sign it’s time to schedule one! Regular dental visits every six months allow our Duncan dentist to catch small issues before they turn into major problems.

6. You Notice Changes in Your Mouth

Any unusual changes in your mouth, like sores, lumps, or color changes in your gums or tongue, warrant a dental check-up. Even if the issue doesn’t seem painful or urgent, Dr. Bridges can ensure everything’s in good shape and address any concerns before they become more serious.

Don’t Wait – Schedule Your Dental Check-Up in Duncan, OK, Today!

Your oral health plays a big role in your overall well-being, and scheduling regular dental check-ups is one of the best ways to keep everything in check. Give our general dentist in Duncan, OK, a call at (580) 255-4880 or contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online to set up that all-important dental check-up today!

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Have you been postponing your overdue dental visit? Take action and contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. Our friendly family dentist in Duncan, OK, can get you out the door with a fresher, healthier smile in no time! Call (580) 255-4880 for an appointment now.

The General Rule: Every Six Months

First things first—why six months? Well, according to our family dentist in Duncan, OK, regular dental visits are like oil changes for your car. They keep everything running smoothly! 

Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, isn’t just looking for cavities or cleaning your teeth (though that’s super important, too!). They’re also checking for early signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other health issues that could be brewing.

Every six months is a sweet spot that allows Dr. Bridges to catch problems before they become big (and painful) deals. Think of it as your smile’s bi-annual check-up—a little TLC to ensure you keep flashing those gorgeous grins for years to come.

When to Visit More Often: Listen to Your Mouth

While the six-month rule is a great guideline, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Your mouth might be giving you subtle (or not-so-subtle) hints that it’s time to see the dentist more frequently. Here’s what to watch for:

Tooth Pain or Sensitivity

If you’re wincing every time you sip hot coffee or ice-cold water, it’s time to talk to our family dentist in Duncan, OK. Tooth pain or sensitivity can signal a variety of issues, from cavities to worn enamel. And guess what? Early treatment can save you a world of hurt (and expense) later on.

Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums can be an early sign of gum disease, which is much easier to treat in its early stages. Don’t ignore it—your gums are the foundation of a healthy smile, so give them the care they deserve.

Persistent Bad Breath

We’ve all had garlic breath after a meal, but if your bad breath sticks around even after brushing, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Whether it’s gum disease, dry mouth, or something else, a visit to our family dentist in Duncan, OK, can help you freshen up.

Changes in Your Mouth

Notice a new spot or sore that hasn’t healed? A loose tooth? Changes in your bite or the way your teeth fit together? These changes could be signals of something serious, so don’t wait—book that appointment ASAP!

Dry Mouth

Saliva isn’t just there to keep your mouth wet—it also helps protect your teeth from decay. If you’re experiencing dry mouth, it could lead to a higher risk of cavities. Dr. Bridges can help you find ways to get that moisture back.

Keep Smiling with Our Family Dentist in Duncan, OK!

Your dental health is an essential part of your overall well-being, so don’t wait until there’s a problem to see Dr. Bridges. Stick to the six-month rule for general maintenance, but if any of these symptoms pop up, it’s a sign to visit more often.

Request an appointment at Chisholm Trail Smile Center here or call (580) 255-4880 for advice and scheduling now!

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Set your child up for success by scheduling a back-to-school cleaning and check-up at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Our family dentist in Duncan, OK, offers invaluable treatments and insight to keep your little one smiling all year. So, schedule an appointment with Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at (580) 255-4880 now!

In today’s blog, our family dentist in Duncan, OK, dives into the top 5 reasons why scheduling a dental check-up before the school bell rings is a must.

1. Prevent Disruptions to Learning

Toothaches and other dental issues can be incredibly distracting for a child in the classroom. Pain and discomfort make it difficult to concentrate on lessons, leading to missed information and decreased performance. 

A back-to-school dental check-up can catch potential problems early—before they turn into painful distractions. By ensuring your child’s teeth and gums are in top shape, you’re setting them up for a successful year of focused learning.

2. Establish Good Oral Hygiene Habits

A new school year is a fresh start in many ways, including when it comes to oral hygiene. Visiting our family dentist in Duncan, OK, provides a perfect opportunity to reinforce the importance of brushing, flossing, and maintaining a healthy smile. 

Dr. Bridges can give your child personalized tips on how to care for their teeth, including the best techniques for brushing and the importance of routine flossing. Establishing these habits early helps set the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health.

3. Catch Problems Early

A back-to-school dental check-up allows our family dentist in Duncan, OK, to spot any potential problems early on. Whether it’s identifying the early stages of tooth decay, checking for misalignment that could affect your child’s bite, or monitoring the development of wisdom teeth in older kids, early detection is key. 

4. Boost Confidence with a Bright Smile

A dental check-up with Dr. Bridges can include a professional cleaning to remove plaque and stains, leaving your child’s teeth sparkling. 

A healthy, bright smile can do wonders for your child’s confidence as they head back to school. Whether they’re meeting new friends or participating in class, having a smile they’re proud of can make a big difference in how they feel about themselves. 

5. Stay Ahead with Preventive Care

Regular check-ups allow our family dentist in Duncan, OK, to provide preventive care that can help avoid future dental problems. This might include fluoride treatments to strengthen tooth enamel or applying dental sealants to protect the grooves of molars from cavities. 

By staying ahead with preventive care, you’re not just protecting your child’s teeth—you’re also protecting your family’s budget from costly dental procedures in the future. So, try scheduling twice-yearly cleanings and check-ups to keep your kiddo’s smile bright and your budget tight. 

Back-to-School Check-Ups with a Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

As you prepare your child for the upcoming school year, don’t forget to add a dental check-up to your to-do list! It’s a small step that can lead to big benefits for your little one. Contact our family dentist in Duncan, OK, online or call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 to get started.

The post Family Dentist in Duncan, OK: 5 Reasons to Get a Back-to-School Check-Up appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Whether you suffer from bad breath (AKA halitosis) or other oral health concerns, we welcome you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bridges. Call 580-255-4880 today! We treat patients of all ages and offer a wide range of preventive, restorative, prosthetic, and cosmetic services.

Now, let’s dive into 5 tips to fight bad breath.

Tip #1:  Practice Good Oral Hygiene

It sounds rudimentary because you’ve probably heard this advice since you were a child. Brushing and flossing daily is the number-one way to prevent bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, and many other oral health problems. Because your mouth is an open portal to your body, bacteria in your oral cavity can cause overall health issues, including endocarditis, which is hardening of the arteries. 

Do this to help keep your breath fresh: 

• Brush in the morning and evening. Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoridated toothpaste.
• Brush for two minutes and thoroughly rinse with antibacterial mouthwash or water afterward. 
• Before evening brushing, thoroughly floss your teeth. If you don’t like flossing with floss thread, purchase disposable, pre-threaded flossers. 
• You may want to add a tongue scraper to your routine. These handheld tools remove plaque, food, and bacteria that accumulate on the surface of the tongue.

Tip #2: Watch What You Eat

When a food or beverage has a strong odor, consuming that item will transfer the odor to your mouth. Onions, garlic, curry, fish, fermented foods, and some condiments like horseradish, leave breath quite potent. 

Furthermore, alcohol and carbonated drinks contain elements that dry out the mouth. Since saliva washes our mouths to continually reduce bacteria and food particles, a lack of saliva not only leaves those odiferous elements in the mouth, but it also causes dry mouth. A clinical condition, dry mouth (AKA xerostomia), contributes to both bad breath and tooth decay.

Tip #3: 8 Glasses of Water a Day

Going back to dry mouth being the source of some mouth odors, you should consume eight glasses or more of water every day. It’s commonplace for people to carry bottled water or a refillable container when on the go, so jump on that bandwagon. Water will hydrate your mouth and your body, which promotes good overall health.

Tip #4: Quickly Freshen Your Breath

After consuming a smelly food or drying beverage, rehydrate your mouth with water, sugar-free mints or gum, or mouthwash. These promote salivation and reduce odors that cause bad breath. To stay ahead of bad breath, keep a small bag with these items and some handheld, disposable flossers, handy. 

Tip #5: 6-Month Checkups and Cleanings

Do not neglect regular dental visits! Children and adults of all ages should visit Dr. Bridges every six months, or more often if advised, for a checkup and dental cleaning. 

At checkups, Dr. Bridges often identifies oral health issues in their early stages, when conservative treatment is still possible. Cleanings allow us to track your periodontal health over time and spot gum disease early. The hygienist who performs your cleaning will be happy to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing or provide advice about oral health products. 

Schedule a Checkup with Your Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

Is bad breath causing you embarrassment? Give us a call at 580-255-4880 to schedule an appointment with your family dentist in Duncan, OK, Dr. Matthew Bridges. He’ll talk with you about your oral health concerns, conduct a comprehensive oral exam, and explain his findings and treatment options, if necessary. We want to help you and your loved ones enjoy good oral health and a high quality of life now and in the future!

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When dental mysteries arise, you can trust Dr. Matthew Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center to get to the bottom of them. Are you dealing with toothy troubles? Give our family dentist in Duncan, OK, a call at (580) 255-4880 now!

If you’ve ever run your tongue along your gums only to discover an unfamiliar bump, you know it can be a bit worrying. However, understanding these bumps can turn that concern into knowledge and empower you to take appropriate action. So, today, our family dentist in Duncan, OK, explains bumps on the gums. 

The Usual Suspects: Common Types of Gum Bumps

A range of issues can cause bumps on the gums, including:

Canker Sores 

Canker sores are small, painful ulcers that can pop up out of nowhere. 

They often develop on the inside of the lips or cheeks, but sometimes on the gums, too. These ulcers are typically round, white or yellow in the center, and red around the edges.  

While they usually heal on their own within a week or two, over-the-counter topical treatments can help ease the discomfort.

Dental Abscesses

A dental abscess is a serious condition. It occurs when an infection leads to the formation of a pus-filled bump on the gums. 

Abscesses are remarkably painful, and they are often accompanied by a foul taste and odor in the mouth and a fever. 

Dental abscesses require prompt professional treatment with our family dentist in Duncan, OK.

Oral Fibromas

Friction on the gums can cause firm, smooth, and painless bumps called fibromas. While fibromas are usually nothing to worry about, they can be annoying. 

They don’t go away on their own and may need to be surgically removed if they cause pain or disrupt daily activities.

Gingival Cysts

Gingival cysts are small, fluid-filled bumps that appear on the gums, usually in the front of the mouth. 

They’re generally painless and not harmful, often arising from developmental issues with the gums. Most of the time, no treatment is needed unless they become bothersome or infected.

Why do these bumps develop?

Gum bumps develop for various reasons, including:

• Infections: Bacterial overgrowth can lead to infections, abscesses, and swollen gums.
• Injuries: Brushing too hard or repetitive behaviors can cause trauma.
• Irritation: Braces and dentures can rub against the gums.
• Systemic Conditions: Diabetes or hormonal changes can affect gum health.
• Immune Responses: Autoimmune diseases can cause inflammatory bumps.

What to do about gum bumps?

Encountering a bump on your gums can be unsettling, but here are some steps to take:

Assess and Monitor

Check for accompanying symptoms like pain, swelling, or fever. If the bump doesn’t improve within a week or worsens, seek professional advice from our family dentist in Duncan, OK.

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Never compromise on daily oral hygiene. So, clean your teeth in the morning and before bedtime, and don’t forget to floss!

Home Remedies

For minor irritation or canker sores, gargling with a solution of water and salt can reduce inflammation. 

Seek Professional Help

If the bump is painful, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, schedule a visit with our family dentist in Duncan, OK.

Visit Our Five-star Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

In many cases, gum bumps are nothing to worry about. But if you’re experiencing pain or disruption to your daily life, it’s best to consult with our family dentist in Duncan, OK. Contact Dr. Bridges online here, or call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 for more information.

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Dr. Bridges continually studies the latest treatments, materials, and technology in dentistry. He has in-depth education and hands-on training in many aspects of dentistry, including airway health, TMD/TMJ treatment, functional occlusion, sleep apnea, and predictable esthetics. The term esthetics and cosmetics are interchangeable in dentistry. 

Perhaps the best aspect of Dr. Bridges’ care is his innate ability to listen to patients. By taking time to hear and discuss patients’ concerns, Dr. Bridges customizes treatment to accomplish his patients’ goals. Along with his excellent clinical team, Dr. Bridges treats patients like family, providing the best care he can to each and every individual. 

Cosmetic Dentistry FAQs

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry deals with the visual aspect of smiles. As a family dentist in Duncan, OK, Dr. Bridges integrates cosmetic techniques into restorative and prosthetic dentistry. On the flip side, he only performs cosmetic procedures when oral health concerns have been addressed. For instance, a patient who wants veneers but has gum disease will need periodontal therapy prior to getting cosmetic dental veneers. This ensures that cosmetic dentistry is designed to last.

Cosmetic procedures include teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, reshaping teeth, and cosmetic bonding. 

What’s the most bang for my buck, when it comes to cosmetic dentistry to improve my appearance?

The most popular and cost-effective cosmetic dentistry procedure is teeth whitening because it is affordable for most patients and it slices years off a person’s appearance. White, sparkling teeth look youthful, fresh, healthy, and beautiful. 

What kinds of teeth whitening are best according to my family dentist in Duncan, OK?

We offer both varieties of teeth whitening: in-office whitening and take-home whitening. The systems we use produce similar results because they include a higher concentration of bleaching agent than what’s available in over-the-counter teeth whitening products. 

What happens to my teeth beneath porcelain veneers?

Before placing veneers, teeth must be prepared. This involves removing some tooth enamel from the front surface where veneers will be bonded in place. By preparing teeth in this way, the veneers lay flat, in line with neighboring teeth, so they look natural. 

Why should I get veneers instead of crowns on my front teeth?

Veneers appear more natural than ceramic crowns because they’re thinner than crowns, yet equally strong and durable. Crowns usually appear bulky and stand out from natural teeth, so they look less natural. When possible, veneers are the treatment of choice to close gaps, reshape, realign, and whiten front teeth.

How long do porcelain veneers last?

With good oral health and regular dental visits with your family dentist in Duncan, OK, porcelain veneers can last 20 years or longer. 

Can I get cavities under porcelain veneers?

Yes. Good, daily oral care at home and regular dental cleanings will extend the life of veneers and reduce your risk for cavities. However, if a cavity develops beneath a veneer, the dentist will need to remove the veneer to treat the decay. If root canal therapy is not required to save the tooth from extraction, the veneer might be replaced following cavity treatment. When root canal therapy is required, a dental crown will be placed atop the tooth after treatment.

Cosmetic Consultation with Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

If you have additional questions about cosmetic dentistry or want to schedule a cosmetic consultation with family dentist Dr. Matthew Bridges in Duncan, call Chisholm Trail Smile Center today at 580-255-4880. We offer cosmetic, restorative, preventive, and prosthetic dentistry to patients of all ages, and we look forward to becoming your favorite dental office!

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Dr. Matthew Bridges is a trusted family dentist in Duncan, OK. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we use state-of-the-art digital imaging, so we can carefully monitor dental development and tooth eruption. With his conservative approach, Dr. Bridges will never recommend unnecessary tooth extraction. But if wisdom tooth removal is required, you can trust us to provide the best possible care. 

To learn more about wisdom teeth or to schedule a consultation for your teen, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. 

What are wisdom teeth?

Wisdom teeth are a third molars that usually erupt between the ages of 17 and 21. (This is supposedly the age when youth also grow in wisdom, though if you’re in the thick of the teenage years, you may question this nomenclature!)

Though many teens face problems with their wisdom teeth, not everyone is born with them! An analysis of worldwide studies found that 22.63% of people are missing at least one of their wisdom teeth. 

How do I know if my child needs wisdom tooth removal?

In the past, it was common practice to remove wisdom teeth automatically for all patients. Today, dentists are more discerning and may allow asymptomatic teeth to remain in place. 

Beginning in early adolescence, Dr. Bridges will use digital x-rays to evaluate the position of wisdom teeth, as well as the overall shape and size of your child’s jaw. If it looks as though there will not be enough room for the teeth, he will likely recommend extraction before the molars actually start to erupt. This will prevent damage to the other teeth, such as overcrowding and an increased risk for tooth decay. Early removal will also reduce the risk of impaction. This occurs when teeth are not able to emerge fully, instead remaining trapped beneath gum or bone tissue.

When wisdom teeth have already started to erupt, your family dentist in Duncan, OK, will recommend removal if they are causing pain, are infected, or have begun to affect dental alignment. 

What happens during wisdom tooth extraction?

During a simple extraction, your dentist will simply loosen and remove the tooth from the mouth. If teeth are impacted or have not yet come in, your teen will need a surgical extraction. In these cases, Dr. Bridges will refer you to an area oral surgeon. 

To perform a surgical extraction, the doctor will remove the gum or bone tissue covering up the wisdom teeth. To reduce impact to the gums, he or she may take the tooth out in several pieces. Your teen will be given sedation prior to surgery, so they will feel little or nothing during the procedure.

Contact Your Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

It’s important to have your teen’s wisdom teeth evaluated periodically throughout adolescence. 

To schedule an appointment at Chisholm Trail Smile Center, contact us online or call 580-255-4880.

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Here’s an overview of questions to ask when looking for a family and general 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 dive into the last 3 questions and learn how you can determine the answers that best suit your family’s needs.

Does the dentist’s office accept your insurance?

There are a few different ways insurance can be “accepted.” 

LOWEST OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE: First, a dentist can be a preferred provider, which means the insurance company pays the dentist a pre-arranged fee for specific services. If your dental plan is a PPO and you choose a preferred provider, your portion of the bill should be less than if you used an out-of-network dental practice. 

HIGHER OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE: If the dentist you choose is not a preferred provider and you have a PPO, you can still see that dentist. You’ll pay a bit higher out-of-pocket expense, but if your family receives compassionate, gentle dental care and service, it will be worth the extra cost.

GREATEST OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSE: If the dentist does not accept insurance, he is truly what we call a fee-for-service (FFS) provider. This means, you’ll pay all of the bill out of pocket at the time services are rendered. Whether you file your out-of-network insurance claim may be left up to you, unless the office files as a courtesy. 

Dr. Bridges is in network with Health Choice and Delta Premier, and our office will file out-of-network claims, as well. We can estimate your out-of-pocket expense when we present your treatment plan. We also accept CareCredit and credit cards, so patients can afford high co-pays and deductibles.

Are all the services your family needs available?

This is an important consideration. Guaranteed, everyone in your family needs preventive checkups and cleanings. Few people avoid restorative care, like fillings and crowns, during a lifetime, so general dentistry services are also important. If you have little ones, be sure the dentist sees kids in your children’s age group. Some dentists do not serve kids under 8, while others only treat teenagers and adults.

If anyone in your family is nervous about visiting the dentist or has special needs, you may want a dental practice that offers nitrous oxide or sedation dentistry. 

As a family and general dentist in Duncan, OK, Dr. Bridges provides all general, restorative, and prosthetic dental treatments. He also offers cosmetic dentistry, children’s dentistry, emergency dental care, and dental implants. All of our clinicians at Chisholm Trail Smile Center consistently provide a calming, attentive chairside manner, and we offer nitrous oxide to enhance patient comfort.

Is after-hours emergency dentistry available for patients of record?

What would you do if your dentist didn’t accept emergency appointments, and your child had a permanent tooth knocked out at a baseball game? You’d have to rely on Google to find an emergency dentist who would see a new patient, perhaps after office hours. 

Families encounter dental emergencies, so it makes sense for parents to choose an emergency dentist like Dr. Matthew Bridges. For patients of record (current patients), Dr. Bridges is always available to see emergencies, even after the office closes. New patients, as well as patients of record, can call for same-day emergency appointments during office hours. 

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

Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at 580.255.4880 today, and schedule a time to meet Dr. Bridges. Experience our five-star service firsthand and interview the doctor to find out if CTSC is the best dentist office for your family.

The post How to Choose a Family and General Dentist in Duncan, OK: Part 2 appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

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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