At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges offers gentle, minimally invasive root canal therapy in a relaxing environment. The entire team at our Duncan, OK, office is committed to patient comfort, and we will work hard to put you at ease. Moreover, we know that endodontic treatment is often shrouded in misconceptions. That’s why we are always happy to answer your questions prior to treatment. 

Read on to learn more about root canal therapy. Then contact us to schedule your appointment. 

What are the hardest teeth to do root canals on?

During a root canal, Dr. Bridges will need to clean out the inside of your tooth and your root canals, removing any bacteria and decayed tissue. Therefore, molars, which can have as many as four roots, are typically more difficult than front teeth, which usually only have one. Moreover, in rare cases, some molars could have four curved, C-shaped roots.

Because of the complexity of molar root canals, it’s important to find a doctor with the necessary skills and expertise. Dr. Bridges has been performing endodontic treatment for years and is renowned for his gentle touch. Plus, our office is outfitted with state-of-the-art digital imaging. Our technology will allow Dr. Bridges to obtain an incredibly detailed understanding of your root canal anatomy.

Are root canals painful?

One of the biggest misconceptions about root canal therapy is that it is extremely uncomfortable. In reality, most people feel only a slight sense of pressure during treatment. Your tooth will be numbed before Dr. Bridges begins, and we also offer nitrous oxide if you are feeling particularly anxious.

Do root canals have health risks?

In the early 1900s, poor research spawned claims that root canal therapy can have serious health consequences, such as heart disease, arthritis, and even cancer. Subsequent, more thorough studies have shown these claims to be false. In fact, root canal therapy is one of the most successful dental treatments, with a success rate between 86 and 98%.

What is the advantage of a root canal over extraction?

Because a root canal does involve significant restructuring of your tooth, it may seem like a better idea to simply have an extraction. But this does not take into account the health or financial consequences of a missing tooth. When you are missing even one tooth, you can experience significant jawbone shrinkage, leading to further tooth loss. 

The only way to prevent bone and tooth loss is to receive a dental implant. While implants are a great option when tooth loss is inevitable, they involve a lengthier treatment process than root canal therapy does to begin with.

Contact Us to Learn More about Root Canal Therapy

Still have questions? Reach out to Chisholm Trail Smile Center. 

Contact us online or give us a call at 580-255-4880.

The post “What are the hardest teeth to do root canals on?” And Other FAQs about Endodontic Treatment appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

But, unfortunately, root canal therapy may be unavoidable for some patients. And the longer patients wait to get treatment, the more likely they are to experience pain and further complications. If you suspect that you might need a root canal, contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK, today at (580) 255-4880. We can help you fight the pain and regain your confidence!

It’s no secret that being proactive about our oral health can help us maintain strong and healthy teeth. Nonetheless, experts believe that a whopping 15 million teeth require root canals every year. So, in this blog post, we explore various ways to avoid root canals and keep our smiles radiant for years to come.

Commit to Regular Dental Check-Ups

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for catching the initial signs of dental issues as early as possible. Dentists can identify signs of decay, infection, or other problems that, if left untreated, could lead to the need for a root canal. By visiting your dentist regularly, you empower yourself to address dental concerns before they escalate.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

The foundation of a healthy smile lies in good oral hygiene practices, such as twice-daily brushing and once-daily flossing. These practices help remove plaque and bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and infections. We recommend using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel against bacteria and plaque.

Mind Your Diet

Our diet plays a significant role in our oral health. To prevent an overgrowth of bad oral bacteria that can lead to root canal infections, we recommend:

• Limiting sugary or carbohydrate-rich foods
• Avoiding overly acidic foods (like sour candies and strong vinegarettes)
• Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is not only good for our overall health but also beneficial for our oral health. Water helps flush away bacteria and debris, preventing the build-up of plaque and reducing the risk of infections that might require root canals.

Protect Your Teeth

Engaging in contact sports and other strenuous activities can pose a risk to teeth. To keep teeth safe and prevent the need for root canals, consider wearing a mouthguard. Accidents happen, and protecting our teeth from trauma is a proactive step in avoiding the need for extensive dental procedures.

Avoid Tobacco Products

All tobacco products (including smokeless products and vapes) are closely linked to a higher risk of dental problems, including infections that may lead to root canals. Quitting or avoiding these products can significantly improve our oral health.

Consider Sealants

Dental sealants are a plastic, protective coating that a dentist can apply to the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars. These coatings create a barrier against bacteria and acids, which reduces the threat of root canal infections.

Prevent Root Canals – Schedule a Check-Up Today

Incorporating these habits into our daily routine and making positive lifestyle choices can go a long way in preventing the need for root canals. But nothing protects smiles quite like regular dental check-ups with our dentist in Duncan, OK. Show your smile some love and schedule a check-up at Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or at (580) 255-4880 today!

The post Your Complete Guide to Avoiding Root Canals appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges ensures all of his patients receive the most comfortable restorative treatment available. Our team is compassionate and willing to listen to your fears so that we can alleviate them. If you are suffering from dental pain, give us a call today. 

Here are several reasons why you should NOT be afraid of root canal treatment.

1. It’s not as painful as you might think. 

Contrary to popular belief, the procedure itself is relatively painless. Before the root canal begins, Dr. Bridges will administer a local anesthetic to numb the area around the affected tooth. This means that you won’t feel pain during the procedure, and you’ll be comfortable throughout. While you may experience minor discomfort or sensitivity in the days following the procedure, this can typically be managed with OTC pain medication.

2. RCT actually alleviates pain and discomfort. 

If you’re experiencing pain or sensitivity in a tooth, it’s likely that the root canal is infected or inflamed. This can cause significant discomfort, and may even make it difficult to eat or speak. Root canal treatment removes the infected or inflamed tissue, which can provide immediate relief from pain and sensitivity. In fact, many patients report feeling better almost immediately after the procedure is complete.

3. Root canals save teeth. 

If left untreated, a root canal infection can cause significant damage to your tooth and even lead to tooth loss. By undergoing root canal treatment, the tooth is saved and there is no need for more extensive dental work down the road. In many cases, a tooth that has undergone RCT can last for several years (and sometimes a lifetime!) with proper care.

4. RCT is a common and routine procedure. 

While the idea of a root canal may be intimidating, it’s important to remember that this is a common and routine dental procedure. Millions of people undergo root canals each year, and the vast majority of them experience no complications or issues. Dr. Bridges is highly trained and experienced in performing root canals, and he will do everything possible to ensure that your procedure is safe and successful.

5. Root canal treatment is an investment in your oral health. 

Finally, root canal treatment is an investment in your oral health. By undergoing root canal treatment, you’re taking an important step towards maintaining your oral health and preserving your natural teeth. While the procedure may require some time and effort on your part, the benefits are well worth it. You’ll be able to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, knowing that your tooth is healthy and strong.

Have no fear! Schedule your appointment today. 

There are many reasons why you shouldn’t be afraid of root canal treatment. This dental procedure is safe, routine, and often less painful than you might think. By undergoing root canal treatment, you can alleviate pain and discomfort, save your tooth, and invest in your long-term oral health. 

With the right care and treatment, you can enjoy a healthy, pain-free smile for years to come. Call our Duncan, OK dentist today at (580) 255-4880 to schedule your appointment. 

The post Are root canals really scary? Here are 5 reasons to NOT be afraid.  appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew L. Bridges and his compassionate team take great pride in helping their patients repair and strengthen their smiles. If you’re ready to see why we are a favorite among Duncan, OK, residents, then schedule your appointment now. New and existing patients can send our team a message here, or they may call our office at (580) 255-4880.

In this post, we challenge what you think you know about root canals with this simple quiz. So, see how you do! You might be surprised to learn that root canals are no longer the fear-inducing procedures of yesteryear.

What is the survival rate of root canals?

1. 50%
2. 75%
3. 90%
4. 97%

Answer: D

Root canals are extraordinarily successful procedures that can help you keep your natural teeth for longer. In fact, clinical research suggests that root canal therapy has a survival rate of around 97%. So, while unsuccessful root canals do occur, they happen significantly less often than many patients think.

You don’t receive any pain management during root canal therapy.

1. True 
2. False

Answer: B

Root canal therapy requires dental professionals to drill into an infected tooth and remove the contaminated material. This process can be incredibly painful without sufficient pain management, which is why root canal therapy is known for being a painful procedure.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we believe that dental care should be comfortable. That’s why we take all necessary precautions to reduce pain during root canal therapy. With numbing agents, local anesthesia, and oral sedatives, we can help you save an infected tooth without sacrificing your comfort.

What do dentists use to protect teeth after root canal therapy?

1. A dental filling
2. A dental filling and a dental crown
3. Gutta percha
4. Gutta percha and a dental crown

Answer: D

In most cases, our team uses gutta percha and a dental crown to protect teeth after root canals. Gutta percha is a rubber-like material that our team uses to fill in the space left behind by removing the infection. In essence, the gutta percha prevents bacteria from entering the now-hollow space inside the tooth, which prevents future infections.

Then, our team uses dental crowns to completely encompass the compromised tooth. This further supports and strengthens the tooth, which allows patients to enjoy their natural smiles for longer.

How long does it take to recover from root canal therapy?

1. Less than one week
2. One week
3. Two weeks
4. A month

Answer: A

In general, patients can expect two to three days of mild discomfort following their root canal procedure. However, most patients can get back to their usual routines in less than one week after their treatment.

Ask Us If Root Canal Therapy Is Right for You

If you think that you might need a root canal, then don’t delay–schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges now. Patients can call our Duncan dental office at (580) 255-4880 or they may submit an appointment request online here.

The post What do you know about root canals? Take this quiz to find out! appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

We also work hard to make sure each of our patients feels comfortable and relaxed during any appointment. In this article, we’ll help reduce your dental anxiety by setting the record straight on root canals.

Myth 1- A tooth extraction can take the place of a root canal.

Root canal therapy, or RCT, is an endodontic treatment, which means it pertains to the inside of a tooth. Endodontic treatments offer the only solution for retaining an internally infected tooth. You should always try to salvage natural teeth. A natural tooth keeps your jaw strong and your bite balanced. 

The other treatment for an internally infected tooth is extraction and replacement, which requires more time, more expense, and often more procedures in the future.

In the simplest terms, root canal therapy involves these steps:

• You will receive medication to numb the tooth and surrounding tissues. This will keep you comfortable throughout the RCT procedure.
• Next, your dentist preps the treatment area.
• He removes inflamed pulp from inside the tooth.
• Your dentist sanitizes the tooth.
• A filling is placed inside the tooth.
• Your dentist preps the tooth for a permanent crown.
• A temporary crown is placed on the top of the tooth.
• When the permanent crown is ready, the dentist replaces the temporary with the final restoration.

Avoid eating sticky or hard foods until you receive your permanent crown. Other than that, you can enjoy life and your toothache becomes a memory.

Myth 2- Endodontic treatments require many appointments. 

For some reason, people often associate root canal therapy with multiple visits to a dentist or specialist. 

While every patient is different, most RCT treatments only take one to two appointments to complete. The number of visits you may need depends on the extent of infection in your tooth, the difficulty level of the procedure, and the location of the tooth.  

Your RCT appointment(s) will include placing a temporary crown. Endodontic treatments and temporary crowns usually only take one appointment. However, you will still need a permanent crown, which will require a separate appointment. 

Myth 3- Root Canals cost a lot.

When you think of a root canal therapy, do you dread the bill? Root canal treatments often cost much less than extraction and replacement. 

If you avoid treatment, your risk of needing a total tooth extraction and replacement increases. This will involve deciding whether you need dentures, bridges, or dental implants. While these replacement options work wonderfully, they often cost more and require more care. 

Routine costs of root canal therapy vary depending on the following issues:

• The number of canals that need treatment.
• Whether you use a specialist or a general dentist. 
• Whether the treatment is your first root canal or the retreatment of a previous root canal.
• The amount your insurance will cover. 

Myth 4- The treatments provide only a temporary fix.

A lot of people believe endodontic treatments only provide a temporary fix. However, with the right care, the results can last a lifetime. Many patients never require further treatment after a completed RCT procedure. Root canal therapy results have been known to last as long as 20 years. 

Myth 5- Root Canals will cause discomfort. 

Discomfort during the root canal remains a top concern for 67% of patients according to the American Association of Endodontists. However, many people feel no discomfort during RCT. 

Dr. Bridges will carefully numb the tooth and surrounding tissues to make sure you stay comfortable throughout the entire appointment. In the end, treating the infected tooth will relieve nerve pain and infection, thus you will no longer suffer from a toothache.

Do you have a toothache that just won’t stop? 

Have you worried about dental costs or treatments? Come see the experts at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK. We are always happy to answer all of your questions and can help you feel better right away. Call us today at 580-255-4880 or make an appointment online.

The post Top 5 Myths About Root Canals appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

No need to fret a root canal. Visit Chisholm Trail Smile Center! Duncan dentist Dr. Matthew Bridges will examine your teeth and x-rays to provide his opinion on your diagnosis. In some cases, root canal therapy isn’t even necessary. Call us at (580) 255-4880 to make an appointment.

Why not a simple crown?

If the dentist suggests root canal therapy, chances are you are in pain. That means that a crack or an infection has developed in the root of your tooth. A crack or cavity that’s been restored with a crown or filling can succumb to internal infection, if the restoration has failed. Other times, a perfectly healthy tooth incurs a crack that you’ll never notice, until infection enters the tooth’s core.

One of our foremost goals at Chisholm Trail Smile Center is to help you keep as much healthy dental tissue as you can, when we place dental restorations. You can be sure that Dr. Bridges will provide the least invasive treatment for this very reason. If he can repair your damaged tooth with a dental crown, he will.

However, if infection has reached the pulp in your tooth’s core and canals, a simple crown cannot restore the tooth. It would only trap the infection inside, and that’s not an option. In fact, the only possible treatment other than RCT would be extraction.

What is a root canal?

Your tooth has tunnels, or canals, running down through the roots. The canals branch off from a central core that’s filled with blood vessels, connective tissue, and a nerve. The core’s contents are collectively known as dental pulp.

When the pulp is infected, pressure on the tooth’s nerve causes pain. In some cases, the pain may be so severe that the patient cannot sleep or concentrate to work. During root canal therapy, the infected pulp is removed. All associated canals are cleaned and disinfected, then the core and canals are filled with a putty-like substance called gutta percha. To finish the procedure, a crown is secured to strengthen and protect the tooth.

The Bright Side – Keep your tooth!

Dr. Bridges offers topical anesthetic, local anesthetic, and even dental sedation if necessary, so your root canal therapy can be performed while you remain comfortable. If you’ve been told that you need a root canal, look at the bright side. After root canal therapy, your tooth will no longer ache. You’ll bite and chew without pain, and you didn’t have to undergo dental extraction, followed by implant placement. With today’s developments and technology, implants aren’t anything to fear either…but that’s another blog.

If you’ve been told that you need RCT or suspect that your toothache is due to an internal infection, Dr. Matthew Bridges can evaluate and diagnose the issue, and answer all your questions. Call our Duncan, OK dental office today at (580) 255-4880 to make an appointment.

The post The Bright Side of a Root Canal appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

You don’t have to be scared of root canals! Duncan, OK dentist Dr. Matthew Bridges provides root canal therapy to end your toothache, not make it worse! Call Chisholm Trail Smile Center to learn about gentle, patient-friendly root canals to save your infected tooth.

Root canals are possibly the most dreaded of words for dental patients to hear, and we suspect it’s because of how they were performed in the past. Before injectable anesthetics, root canals were very likely long, slow, painful experiences—but today most patients feel no sensitivity during the procedure. Thanks to effective nerve-blocking treatments, any toothache you felt up until your appointment will be gone as soon as the injection takes effect.

Root canals are also faster than ever before. With modern dentistry tools, microscopes, and lasers, the “long, slow” part of root canal therapy turns into one office visit. Sometimes root canal therapy takes two office visits, depending on the severity of the infection and the anatomy of the tooth. Overall, modern technology has made the procedure faster and more effective.

Root Canals End Pain

Let’s be clear. Root canals may have a bad reputation, but they end any pain you have been feeling in an infected tooth. This treatment is also called endodontic therapy because it treats the inside of the tooth.

The pulp chamber in the innermost part of a tooth is where the living tissues reside. It includes blood vessels, nerve endings, and other tissues. When infection reaches this part of the tooth, the only way to remove it is to remove all the soft tissues from inside the tooth.

While you are anesthetized, we remove all the living tissues from the pulp chamber and the small canals that extend outward into the tooth. After the tooth has been “hollowed out” and cleaned, we sanitize it to make sure there is no trace of infection remaining, and seal the tooth with a filler. This rubber-like filler is different from typical cavity fillings and it creates a weight and heft that is closer to the way your tooth originally felt.

Technically a tooth that receives endodontic therapy becomes a dead tooth, since no living tissues are left inside it. However, it will function like a living tooth for many years to come. You may experience some sensitivity at the site of the tooth for a day or two after a root canal, but this should go away quickly.

Some patients have a sore jaw after root canal treatment, but this is likely from holding the jaw open for an extended period of time, and should feel better within a day or so. If you experience pain after a root canal treatment, let us know as soon as possible. Sometimes the crown or filling may be too high, and this can upset your bite and chewing process. We can usually correct this in a short office visit.

Root Canals are Worth the Time!

Root canals may take longer than typical fillings but they are worth your time! It may be years from now or it may be months, but an infected tooth will only worsen if neglected. The body cannot heal a tooth infection on its own; only a dentist can restore a tooth with bacterial infection. If you put off root canal treatment, any pain you feel will only worsen and your chances of saving the tooth will decrease.

If there’s anything to fear when you hear the words “root canal,” it’s not getting it done promptly!

Do you have an unrelenting toothache? If you need a root canal in Duncan OK, Chisholm Trail Smile Center will help you save your tooth. Call our office at (580) 255-4880 for an appointment.

Root Canals Duncan, OK – Chisholm Trail Smile Center

The post The Truth About Root Canals (It’s Not as Bad as You Think!) appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Symptoms of an Infected Tooth

When a tooth is infected, it can cause a great deal of discomfort. However, it is important to note that some patients do not experience pain. Therefore, it is vital that you attend all routine dental examinations and cleanings, so our team can monitor all aspects of your oral health. Sometimes, a dental abscess will form. If this happens, you should make an appointment right away, as the bacteria can easily spread to the neighboring teeth and surrounding bone.

How Does a Tooth Become Infected?

The pulp of a tooth can become infected anytime the seal around the tooth is compromised. This can occur due to decay, fractures, or other forms of dental damage. When bacteria reach the internal structures of a tooth, there are really only two treatment options: root canal therapy or a tooth extraction. Leaving this condition untreated can result in mobility and further tooth loss. In rare cases, the infection can even reach the brain. In any case, the same bacteria present in your mouth is being carried throughout your body via your bloodstream. Therefore, a dental infection not only impacts your oral health, but your overall health as well.

How Does Root Canal Therapy Save a Tooth?

The very nature of root canal therapy removes the infection at its source. During the procedure, Dr. Bridges will remove the pulp, tissues, and nerves from inside the tooth. The surfaces will then be disinfected to eradicate any residual bacteria. Next, the root canals will be packed with a special dental material, and the tooth will be sealed off with a filling or a crown. For whatever reason, root canal therapy has developed a reputation for being painful. On the contrary, because the procedure removes the nerves of the tooth, most patients experience relief rather than pain following their treatment.

Are There Cases in Which Root Canal Therapy Will Not Work?

Root canal therapy is an excellent and long-lasting treatment option in most cases. However, before proceeding with treatment, Dr. Bridges will perform a thorough assessment to check the prognosis of the tooth. If the tooth is too damaged, weak, or fractured, root canal therapy would not be the best option. Even if the tooth could be repaired initially, the long-term prognosis may be too questionable. In these instances, an extraction would most likely be recommended. We understand the frustration that comes with paying for treatment that only lasts a few months. Therefore, before we begin root canal therapy, we will make sure it is the most effective option for your situation.

Learn More about Root Canal Therapy in Duncan, OK

If you think you may have an infected tooth, schedule a consultation at our Duncan, OK practice right away. Dr. Bridges will work with you to determine the most appropriate next step. To learn more about root canal therapy, or to make an appointment, contact us online anytime or call us at (580) 255-4880.

The post How Root Canal Therapy Can Save You from an Extraction appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Though it may seem alarming at first to hear this prognosis, root canal therapy is actually a fairly common procedure used to save a tooth and prevent an extraction. If you are unsure on how to proceed after your diagnosis, it may be time to seek a second opinion. While there is a possibility the second dentist will give you the same prognosis, you will have peace of mind knowing it’s the right decision for your oral health, and you may find that the second dentist is more qualified. Below are some tips to help establish whether a second opinion should be pursued.

Dr. Matthew Bridges offers root canal therapy at our Duncan, OK practice. He will take the time to sit with you and explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions or concerns you may have. When selecting who to perform your procedure, it’s important that you choose a dentist, such as Dr. Bridges, who is both experienced and highly trained. For more information, contact us online to book your root canal treatment or call (580) 255-4880.

Is Your Dentist Experienced in Performing Root Canal Therapy?

Not all dentists are as experienced in root canal therapy as they are in performing other dental treatments. While the procedural steps are similar to a dental filling, they require more of a delicate nature and technique. To get a better understanding of your dentist’s experience, ask them how often they perform root canal therapy and what their success rate is. If their success rate is low or the procedure is performed only a few times a month, you may want to seek a second opinion from a more qualified professional. Your smile is an important part of your personhood and it should be entrusted to someone who will give it the attention and care it deserves.

Do You Like the Dentist?

Likability and good rapport are also important factors when choosing who to perform your procedure. In addition to receiving qualified and comprehensive care, you want to make sure you feel comfortable and at ease with your dentist. A good dentist will sit and listen to your concerns, explain the procedure in detail, and not make you feel rushed or disregarded. If you feel uneasy about your dentist, you may want to seek a second opinion.

Did the Dentist Try Conservative Treatment First?

Root canal therapy is usually recommended as a last recourse to avoid an extraction. Oftentimes, a dental filling or dental crown can be attempted first. This will depend on the severity of your damaged tooth and whether the infection has penetrated the root canals. When meeting with the dentist, ask if more conservative treatments are possible and have them explain why they may or may not work. Dr. Bridges believes in educating patients so they have a better understanding of what to expect. If you feel dismissed by your dentist, it may be time to seek care from another medical professional.

Do You Need Root Canal Therapy?

If you live in the Duncan, OK area and are looking for an experienced root canal therapy dentist, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Bridges. Our team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center is equipped at root canal therapy and will make sure you achieve a successful outcome. Please contact our office today online or by calling (580) 255-4880.

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