A decrease of saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common problem, especially among older individuals. Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it can cause tooth damage. Saliva is required to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Extensive tooth decay can arise […]
Gum Disease
Optimum Oral Health Includes Exams and Cleanings
If you’ve ever visited our blog, you’ve probably heard the counsel to have dental visits and cleanings twice a year. In fact, dental professionals have been advising the twice-yearly frequency for over 50 years. The American Dental Association counsels people to visit their dentist twice a year as well. Is that an arbitrary schedule? Let’s […]
A Beautiful Smile is Timeless
Every stage of life has its benefits and drawbacks. For example, in our golden years, we may enjoy traveling, more free time and grandchildren. However, most Oklahoma City retirees do not welcome wrinkles, limited mobility or dental dilemmas. Fortunately, your smile can be healthy and beautiful throughout your life. With cosmetic and restorative dentistry, you […]
Great Reasons to Floss Your Teeth
Flossing is a bit of a chore. It takes a little extra time, and if you haven’t flossed in a while, it can even be painful. It’s no wonder our team at OKC Smiles are constantly reminding our patients to ‘brush and floss!’ Flossing is vital, You’ll never hear one of us say ‘don’t worry […]
Your Dentist Provides Comprehensive Oral Care
How does your dentist help you stay healthy? Most people know that they can go to their dentist if they chip a tooth or have a toothache. Because of this, they may not realize how many other health issues your dentist can help you with. A full-service dental practice provides comprehensive oral health care. Bad […]
Halitosis And Xerostomia (Bad Breath And Dry Mouth)
While poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of halitosis, many factors can contribute to or intensify the condition. One of these is the lack of saliva or xerostomia. Saliva and Oral Health Saliva moistens the teeth and gums and removes odiferous dead cells. Saliva also neutralizes the ever-present acids on the tongue, gums, […]
Signs Of Oral Cancer: What Not To Ignore
Today’s article focuses on a very serious issue—oral (oropharyngeal) cancers. The medical community categorizes oral cancers as a subset of head and neck cancers. Oral cancers can develop in the following locations: The tongue The roof of the mouth and under the tongue The inside of the cheeks The oropharynx (the part behind the soft […]
The 4 Stages of Gum Disease
You may be wondering why every so often your gums are red and swollen, or your breath is bad. Maybe you’re just interested in improving your dental health and want to be more aware for your next appointment. Learn about the four stages of gum disease you may be overlooking when thinking of your comprehensive […]
6 Good Reasons To Visit Your Dentist More Often
Most men and women visit the dentist about once each year. As many as forty percent of Americans see their dentist less often. Some go as long as five years between visits. Most dentists recommend a visit at least every six months. Here are six terrific reasons to visit your dentist more often. 1. Oral […]
47% of Adults Have Gum Disease: Are You One of Them?
A recent CDC report provides the following data related to prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.: 47.2% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of men and women 65 years and older have periodontal disease. This condition is more widespread in men than […]
