Dr. Matthew Bridges of Chisholm Trail Smile Center is just such a practitioner. Dr. Bridges is committed to getting to know his patients individually and to providing treatment that is uniquely tailored to each person’s needs. If he is unable to treat a special needs patient, he will be happy to refer you to an area practitioner who can help.

If you are looking for an outstanding family dentist in Duncan, OK, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today.

Dental Hygiene for Those with Autism 

Individuals with autism often have a hard time maintaining regular dental care. In fact, only about 50% of children with autism brush their teeth twice a day. Further, 61% of parents with autistic children report difficulties with brushing and flossing. For many, these problems are related to sensory processing disorders. The smell or taste of toothpaste or the feel of a toothbrush can be very unnerving for autistic individuals. 

Specific Oral Health Challenges

Poor oral hygiene can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, some autistic patients have limited diets, preferring solely soft or puréed foods. Some may avoid fruits and/or vegetables because of sensory issues. Others may have a marked fondness for sweets. Without vigilance, these dietary choices can further increase the risk of tooth decay.

Individuals with autism may have other unique dental health problems. For instance, an estimated 20-25% of autistic patients suffer from bruxism, or chronic teeth grinding. This can lead to dental erosion, cracked teeth, and TMJ disorder. Others may engage in non-nutritive chewing, which can also put excess strain on the teeth. And some may inflict self-injury, such as picking at their lips or gums.

Making Dental Visits Easier for Autism Patients

Because of the increased risk for dental problems, it is especially important for patients with autism to receive regular dental care. But this can also be problematic, since the unusual sights, smells, and sounds of the dental office can be quite upsetting. 

Dentists who treat autistic patients take many steps to ensure comfortable, low-stress care. For instance, your practitioner may provide specific music, noise-canceling headphones, dimmer lights, weighted blankets, or other calming devices. Depending on a patient’s individual needs, a dentist could limit interactions, or he could be extremely thorough in describing every step of treatment in advance. 

The best way you can make dental visits easier for yourself or your loved one is to find the right family dentist in Duncan, OK. Then call ahead to the practice to explain your situation and discuss the right strategies for your upcoming appointment.

Contact a Family Dentist in Duncan, OK

Schedule an appointment at Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. 

Get in touch online or call us at 580-255-4880.

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Give your smile the gift it deserves with general dentistry treatments at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. You can schedule appointments with our friendly team at (580) 255-4880 now!

In today’s blog, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges gives you five ways to keep your smile off the naughty list with general dentistry treatments.

Professional Teeth Cleaning: A Sparkling Foundation

Start your journey to a brighter smile this holiday season with professional dental cleaning. Regular cleanings with a skilled dental hygienist can remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains that accumulate over time. 

As a result, routine cleanings can reveal the natural brilliance of your teeth. Not only does this contribute to a brighter smile, but it also promotes optimal oral health by preventing issues such as cavities and gum disease.

Teeth Whitening for a Dazzling Transformation

Our teeth naturally lose their luster as we age, but certain foods can contribute to duller smiles, including:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Dark juices (like pomegranate juice)
• Red wine

Luckily, professional teeth whitening is a game-changer for lackluster smiles. This general dentistry treatment offers patients a safe and effective way to restore brilliance without sacrificing oral health. 

Whether you choose an in-office treatment or a take-home kit, the results will leave you with a dazzling smile that’s ready to shine during the holiday festivities.

Cosmetic Bonding: Concealing Imperfections

Small chips, cracks, or gaps in teeth can affect the appearance of smiles significantly. Luckily, there is a tried-and-true general dentistry treatment to address these concerns – cosmetic bonding.

This quick and effective solution involves the use of tooth-colored resin applied to problematic teeth to cover minor flaws. The result is a seamless, natural-looking improvement that enhances your smile’s overall radiance for as long as 15 years.

Addressing Dental Issues: A Healthy Smile is a Bright Smile

General dentistry isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s also about maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. 

Addressing any underlying dental issues (such as cavities, tooth sensitivity, or gum disease) is essential for achieving and maintaining a bright smile. Regular check-ups and preventive care play a crucial role in ensuring that your teeth stay healthy all year round.

At-Home Care: The Key to Long-Lasting Radiance

Adopting good oral hygiene practices at home is crucial for preserving the results of general dentistry treatments. Brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash regularly can help prevent stains and keep your teeth looking their best throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Cosmetic and General Dentistry in Duncan, OK

The holiday season is the perfect time to invest in achieving a brighter smile through general dentistry. Whether you opt for professional cleanings, teeth whitening, cosmetic bonding, or a combination of treatments, the result will be a radiant smile that lights up the room and leaves a lasting impression on everyone you meet. Schedule your appointment at Chisholm Trail Smile Center here, or call our front desk at (580) 255-4880 for booking now!

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When in doubt, contact a trusted dentist, like Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. Our dentist in Duncan, OK, can help you assess your oral health and make honest recommendations to enhance your smile. Give us a ring at (580) 255-4880 to learn more!

To help you determine if you should be heading to the dentist’s office, we’ve created a simple quiz. Answer these questions honestly to find out if it’s time for your next dental check-up!

1. How long has it been since your last dental visit?

a) Less than six months

b) Six months to a year

c) More than a year

d) I can’t remember

2. Have you experienced any pain or discomfort in your mouth recently?

a) No

b) Maybe the occasional toothache

c) Frequent pain or discomfort

d) Severe pain that affects my daily life

3. Are your gums healthy and free from bleeding when you brush or floss?

a) Yes, my gums are in great shape

b) A little bleeding from time to time

c) My gums bleed regularly

d) My gums bleed every time I brush or floss

4. How often do you brush your teeth and floss?

a) Twice a day, every day

b) Once a day

c) A few times a week

d) Rarely or never

5. Do you have any dental work that needs attention, such as fillings or crowns?

a) All of my dental work is in good condition

b) Some dental work needs a check-up

c) I have dental work that is overdue for replacement

d) I’m not sure about the condition of my dental work

6. Have you noticed any changes in your oral hygiene routine or dietary habits?

a) No changes

b) Minor changes

c) Significant changes

d) I don’t follow a regular oral hygiene routine

7. Do you have a family history of dental issues, like gum disease, cavities, or oral cancer?

a) No family history of dental issues

b) Mild family history

c) Strong family history

d) I’m not sure about my family history

Now that you’ve answered the questions, let’s assess your results!

If you mostly answered “a,” congratulations! It appears that you’re maintaining excellent dental health and are keeping up with regular dental visits. You should continue your current oral hygiene routine and schedule your next check-up as recommended by your dentist (or every six months as recommended by the American Dental Association).

If you answered mostly “b,” it’s time for a dental visit. You may have some minor concerns that need professional attention, like a check-up or cleaning. Don’t wait too long – schedule an appointment soon.

If your answers were mostly “c,” you should definitely visit our dentist in Duncan, OK. It’s been a while since your last visit, and you may have some oral health issues that need addressing, such as gum disease or cavities.

If you selected mostly “d,” you should schedule a dental appointment immediately. Severe pain, neglected dental work, and a lack of oral hygiene routine are signs that you need urgent dental care.

Meet Our Dentist in Duncan, OK

If you’re unsure about your results or have specific concerns about your dental health, don’t hesitate to contact our dentist in Duncan, OK. Dr. Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center will gladly help you determine the best course of action for your smile. Contact us online anytime, or call (580) 255-4880 for more!

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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.

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Patients who attend regular dental visits twice a year are less likely to experience toothaches from issues like cavities and gum disease. However, cracked tooth syndrome can occur at any time, to anyone–and it can really hurt! Over 200,000 cracked teeth are reported annually in the United States, and we see quite a few in our office. 

As a Duncan dentist, Dr. Bridges helps children and adults achieve and maintain great oral health. Supported by a caring team of experts, Dr. Bridges invites you to experience gentle family dental care so you and your loved ones can enjoy excellent oral health for life!

What is cracked tooth syndrome?

Cracked tooth syndrome, or CTS, involves a fracture that does not extend fully across a tooth. The fracture may affect enamel, the sensitive dentin beneath, and in some cases, the pulp within a tooth’s innermost chamber. 

With a cracked tooth, pain occurs when chewing foods, particularly small, hard foods like seeds. In addition, temperature changes, namely cold, can increase pain in the affected tooth. Sweet foods may also cause pain in a cracked tooth. Patients who previously endured a cracked tooth may immediately notice the symptoms. For those who have no previous experience with a cracked tooth, symptoms may  mimic other conditions.

CTS may present with symptoms that may feel like:

• Sinusitis
• Temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ) 
• Headaches 
• Ear pain
• Atypical orofacial pain

Your general dentist says this is IMPORTANT! If a cracked tooth isn’t identified and treated promptly, it can grow to cause complete fracture and destroy the tooth.

What causes a cracked tooth?

Oftentimes, a previously treated tooth (fracture or decay) develops a crack. Also, people who chew on non-food items like ice, pen caps, fingernails, etc., are more likely to develop CTS than those who do not have this destructive habit. 

A tooth may develop a crack or cracks from habitual teeth grinding, called bruxism. Additionally, patients with one cracked tooth, statistically, are likely to develop other cracked teeth.

How does a general dentist diagnose a cracked tooth?

Diagnosis of a cracked tooth can be quite difficult. In fact, some dentists miss a cracked tooth during dental inspection, especially when a patient has no CTS symptoms. 

Dr. Bridges may use any of these evaluations to identify CTS:

• X-ray
• Illumination
• Bite test
• Periodontal probing
• Scrape exam
• Percussion test
• Dye test
• Magnification
• Ultrasound

How does Dr. Bridges treat a cracked tooth?

In most cases, if the pulp within a tooth is not affected by the crack and the crack does not extend to the tooth’s roots, application of a dental crown will restore the tooth’s structural integrity. If multiple teeth are affected by cracks and TMJ disorder or bruxism (or both) is to blame, Dr. Bridges will recommend treating the underlying cause, restoring all affected teeth, and ending the problem once and for good.

What if my tooth can’t be saved?

When a tooth crack extends to the pulp of a tooth or down a root, the tooth may require root canal therapy or extraction and replacement. Rest assured, your CTS can be treated. Dr. Bridges, your general dentist, will get you out of pain first, then through thorough examination he’ll determine the best treatment plan to restore comfortable oral function and lasting, good oral health.

The General Dentist Your Family Can Trust

If you or a loved one have a toothache, or you don’t have a general dentist in Duncan, OK, call on Dr. Bridges of Chisholm Trail Smile Center today. We’re accepting new patients and gladly see children, teens, adults, and senior citizens. We also care for special needs patients with gentleness and respect. Call us at 580.255.4880 to schedule your appointment or alert us to your need for emergency dental care.

***

Resource: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3467890/  

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Dr. Matthew Bridges is a great example of this dedication to continuing education. Thanks to his training, the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center is able to offer a wide range of unique services. Our Duncan, OK, patients benefit from our cosmetic treatments, state-of-the-art dental restorations, TMD treatment, and sleep apnea expertise. 

Contact our office to learn more about Dr. Bridges’ education and how it can benefit you.

How long do dentists go to school?

Like most college graduates, dentists spend four years pursuing their undergraduate degree. Then they spend an additional four years in dental school. Some select programs combine undergraduate and graduate training into a single six-year program.

How much continuing education do dentists undergo?

A dentist’s education is never done. The Oklahoma Board of Dentistry requires that dentists undergo 40 hours of additional training every three years. Among other topics, this education must include training in opioids, CPR, and ethics. 

But this is just the minimum. Many truly passionate dentists like Dr. Bridges undergo much more training, often focusing on areas of special interest.

What do all those letters mean after a dentist’s name?

Typically, you will see a dentist’s name followed by “DDS” or “DMD.” DDS is the abbreviation for “Doctor of Dental Surgery.” DMD represents “Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry” or “Doctor of Dental Medicine.”

So what’s the difference? Nothing! Different schools use different names for their degrees but the education and curriculum are identical.

What kind of training does a hygienist need?

Dental hygienists play a key role in your oral health. Typically, hygienists are the ones who will clean and polish your teeth at routine visits. Hygienists also prep patients for x-rays and treatment, and they may assist dentists during lengthier or more involved procedures. 

A hygienist also undergoes extensive training, although it is not as rigorous as a dentist’s education. Hygienists are required to have an associate’s degree, as well as a state license. However, many hygienists – like our own beloved Michelle – have a bachelor’s degree, as well. Like dentists, hygienists are required to take continuing education courses.

What is Dr. Bridges’ educational background?

Dr. Bridges received his undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona and worked in software development. Realizing his love for dentistry, he decided to change careers. He received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Oklahoma. 

Dr. Bridges has a keen interest in related health conditions, such as TMJ Disorder and sleep apnea. Thanks to his many additional hours of training, he has been named a Qualified Dentist by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He has also completed the renowned Dawson Academy continuum to combine the practical side of dentistry with practice philosophy. 

Contact a Highly Trained and Experienced Dentist 

If you are looking for a dentist who is dedicated to education and training, you have come to the right place! 

Schedule an appointment at Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or call us at 580-255-4880.

The post “How long do dentists go to school?” And Other FAQs about Dental Training appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we are committed to patient comfort. Dr. Matthew Bridges takes as much time with each patient as needed so that you will never feel rushed or pressured into treatment. Furthermore, we offer nitrous oxide sedation so that even the most fearful patients can receive the treatment they need. 

With our gentle and personalized care, you don’t have to suffer from fear of dentists. Contact our Duncan, OK, office to learn more about how we treat dental anxiety or to book your first appointment. 

Dental Anxiety and Phobia: What You Should Know

Dental anxiety causes mild to moderate fear of dentists, and it is common, affecting an estimated 36% of the population. Anxious patients may suffer from a racing heartbeat, sweating, insomnia the night before an appointment, and spinning thoughts. 

Dental phobia is characterized by an extreme fear of dentists, and it affects about 12% of the population. Patients with dental phobia may experience panic attacks. Many delay treatment altogether. This can have drastic effects for their oral health, such as gum disease and widespread tooth loss. Neglecting dental care can also have serious consequences for their general wellness, since gum disease has been linked to poor cardiovascular health.

Patient Comfort Is Our Top Priority

Dr. Bridges and his team have a true heart for service and for providing outstanding care to anxious patients. We know that dental anxiety is not something that you can fully control. That is why we do everything possible to make you feel comfortable and at home in our office. We take the time to listen to your concerns, thoroughly explain your treatment options, and answer all your questions.

And, of course, Dr. Bridges’ gentle touch will ensure comfortable treatment with minimal discomfort. 

Nitrous Oxide for Anxiety Relief

We know that many patients will need something more to help them overcome their anxiety. That is why we offer nitrous oxide, more commonly called laughing gas. Administered through a facial mask, nitrous oxide causes feelings of deep relaxation and even mild euphoria. Varying levels of sedation can be achieved, depending on your needs.

Reassuring Facts about Nitrous Oxide

Some anxious patients also feel a bit nervous at the thought of sedation. If you are among them, the following facts may set your mind at ease: 

• Nitrous oxide has an established safety record, having been used by doctors and dentists since the mid-19th century.
• Nitrous oxide wears off quickly. Though you will likely need a ride home from your appointment, you should be able to resume most of your normal activities the same day.
• Nitrous oxide distribution has at least 12 visual and auditory safety features to reduce the already low risk of complications during administration.

Overcome Your Fear of Dentists at Chisholm Trail Smile Center

Even if you have been afraid of dentists since childhood, we can help you overcome your lifelong anxiety. 

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or call us at 580-255-4880.

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At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, Dr. Matthew Bridges understands that oral and physical wellness are inseparably linked. Though he treats dental conditions, he wants you to enjoy overall health, including a healthy diet. Of course, he is not a weight loss expert, so you should consult with your physician before beginning any particular diet. 

To learn more about the connection between diet and oral health or to schedule a dental appointment, contact our office today.

What is the keto diet?

Most adherents of the keto diet practice a modified version of the original, which was developed in the 1920s. By dramatically reducing carbs, a dieter deprives her body of glucose, the main source of energy. To access the necessary energy, the body then begins to break down fat stores, a state known as ketosis. 

To achieve ketosis, your diet should consist of about 70-80% fat, 10-20% protein, and 5-10% carbohydrates.

The Keto Diet and Tooth Decay

Carbohydrates are not only the body’s main source of energy, carbs are the primary food source for oral bacteria, as well. When you eat carbs, especially refined carbs like sugar, oral bacteria multiply to form sticky plaque and, eventually, hard tartar. These substances can eat through your tooth enamel, creating a cavity.

When you cut carbs in the keto diet, you also reduce your risk of tooth decay and an emergency trip to your Chisholm Trail dental office.

Ketosis and Your Breath 

Although the keto diet can have positive long-term benefits for your teeth, it can have negative consequences for your breath. Once your body starts using ketones for energy, you could develop very distinctive “ketosis breath.” Many describe the smell of ketosis breath as being similar to the odor of nail polish remover. It can also cause a metallic taste in your mouth. 

Keto breath occurs because one of the ketones that your body breaks down for energy is acetone, a common ingredient in many nail polish removers. When your body breaks down proteins, it can also release ammonia, which lends a distinctive odor to breath.

Keto breath is not permanent and will usually fade as your body adjusts to the diet.

Not ready to go low carb?

No doubt about it, the keto diet is a commitment. But don’t worry – if you’re not ready to slash your carbs, there are other diets that can protect your smile. In fact, if you are looking for the healthiest all-around diet, keto may not be the way to go. Health experts warn that it has numerous health drawbacks, especially since it involves high consumption of saturated fats.

In part because of this risk, the keto diet was recently named one of the worst diets for 2023. Instead, health experts recommend the Mediterranean diet, which earned the top spot. Indeed, this diet is full of healthy nutrients, which can benefit every aspect of your health – including your smile. 

Contact Your Chisholm Trail Dental Office for More Oral Health Tips and Information

Dr. Bridges prioritizes patient education and is ready to answer your questions. Contact our Chisholm Trail dental office to speak to a member of our team or to book an appointment. 

You can reach us online or call us at (580) 255-4880.

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At Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, Dr. Matthew Bridges offers a full range of dental services. With his recognition by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, he is especially qualified to treat sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea and snoring. 

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to learn more about our services or to book an appointment.

Sleep Apnea

It seems surprising that a dentist can treat sleep apnea. Don’t you need to go to a sleep specialist for care? Actually, a dentist can often provide convenient and effective treatment for sleep disorders. 

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which affects between 10 and 30% of adults, occurs when airflow through the throat is blocked. Breathing stops and patients wake up, often unconsciously. Dentists like Dr. Bridges can treat OSA by providing a comfortable, discreet oral appliance. The mouthguard will reposition the jaw to tighten soft tissues and keep the throat open.

Chronic Headaches

Chronic headaches are often the result of dental misalignment, bruxism, and/or TMJ Disorder. When your bite is uneven or you frequently grind your teeth, this can damage your jaw joints and cause inflammation in the nearby muscles. 

Once Dr. Bridges determines that your headaches are indeed dental-related, he can design a mouthguard, which will stop chronic teeth grinding. Relaxation techniques can also help, since bruxism is often connected to stress.

Heart Disease 

Ok, so you couldn’t visit dentists for your bypass surgery. But going to the dentist could prevent you from needing such procedures in the first place! There is a strong link between gum disease and heart disease. In fact, research shows that patients with gum disease are two to three times more likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke. 

Visiting the dentist is one of the best ways to prevent periodontitis, which develops when oral bacteria build up in the gums. Routine cleanings can eliminate these microbes. And if you do develop gum disease, a deep cleaning can prevent serious complications like tooth loss.

Pregnancy

Many pregnant women assume that they shouldn’t visit the dentist, but nothing could be farther from the truth! In fact, pregnant women may need more dental care. Expecting mothers are more likely to develop gum disease than other women. Research shows that 60-75% of pregnant women have gingivitis, the earliest, reversible stage of gum disease. If gum disease progresses, it can have serious consequences on unborn babies and may contribute to low birth weight and preterm labor.

Oral Cancer

This last health condition may not be as much of a surprise as the others. But it is included because oral cancer screenings are one of the most important services performed by dentists. 

Taking place at every dental exam, screenings look for mouth sores and other symptoms. Patients who are diagnosed early have a much better prognosis, which is one reason that it is so important to visit your dentist twice a year.

Looking for outstanding dentists? Contact Us!

Dr. Bridges is committed to your systemic health and takes ongoing training to provide the best possible care. Contact our Duncan, OK, office to schedule your consultation. 

Complete our online form or call us at 580-255-4880.

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At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges is committed to providing outstanding dental care for all patients. He particularly values patient education and the opportunity to encourage improved oral care and hygiene. 

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or are simply looking for a compassionate and experienced Duncan, OK, dental service, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today.

Hanukkah Menus

Hanukkah menus often feature fried foods. The use of oil commemorates the miracle of the oil, when one cruse lasted for eight days. 

Cheese also plays an important role on the Hanukkah table. This ties into the apocryphal story in the Book of Judith, in which Judith gives salty cheese to Holofernes. The villain is so thirsty that he guzzles wine, becoming drunk and giving Judith an opportunity to kill him.

Latkes

Latkes are an indispensable part of any Hanukkah menu. Who doesn’t love a fried potato pancake? While potatoes aren’t the worst thing for your teeth, they are very starchy, providing a rich source of energy to oral bacteria. 

Fortunately, there are a wide range of delicious, non-traditional latke recipes that still fit the spirit of the holiday. Sweet potato latkes are not only delicious; they also contain high amounts of Vitamin A for improved gum health.

Sour Cream and Applesauce

Many people wouldn’t consider latkes complete without a side of sour cream and applesauce. Apples are actually a great choice when it comes to oral wellness. The fibrous texture helps to remove bacteria and freshen breath. 

Sadly, applesauce does not have the same effects. In fact, one study showed that the high acid content in applesauce can have very damaging effects on dental enamel. 

Brisket

Braised brisket is the centerpiece of many a Hanukkah table. Luckily, meat, especially iron-rich choices like brisket, can help to strengthen teeth. Further, a 2015 study indicates that red meat may help to reduce the biofilms that lead to decay and periodontitis.

Noodle Kugel 

If you don’t eat noodle kugel any other time of the year, Hanukkah is the time to do it! The satisfyingly squishy pudding can be either savory or sweet. While either variation will undoubtedly be starchy, your Duncan, OK, dental service recommends a savory version. Without sugar, the dish will be less detrimental to your teeth. 

Plus, savory kugel usually contains garlic, which can help to combat oral bacteria. Just watch out for the effects of too much garlic on your breath!

Gelt 

Of course, if you’re playing a game of dreidel, you’ll need some chocolate coins. Though chocolate is high in sugar, dark chocolate is also rich in antioxidants, which can help to combat infection, including gum disease. 

Choose dark chocolate gelt, if possible, and enjoy in moderation. 

Contact Your Duncan, OK, Dental Service Today

To learn more about diet and your oral health or to book an appointment, contact our office today. 

Get in touch online or call us at 580-255-4880.

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