Bobby J. Carmen, DDS Blog

Cosmetic Bonding for Quick and Easy Tooth Repair

October 15, 2014

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry,dr. bobby carmen,Uncategorized — Tags: Central Oklahoma, cosmetic bonding, cosmetic dentistry, dr. bobby carmen, Moore, Norman, the University of Oklahoma, tooth bonding — admin @ 8:20 pm

Oops! You just chipped a tooth. Or perhaps you have a tooth that has always been misshapen or misaligned. There’s no reason to settle for a smile that is less than what you want it to be. With the modern dental treatment of cosmetic bonding, that tooth can likely be repaired in one appointment at the Norman, OK, office of Dr. Bobby Carmen.

When is Cosmetic Bonding the Right Choice?

There are a number of cases when cosmetic bonding may be the perfect option. Some of these instances include:

Repairing a chipped or cracked tooth
Restoring the look of discolored or stained teeth
Correcting the spacing between teeth
Changing the shape of a tooth

With cosmetic or dental bonding, Dr. Carmen will first need to slightly roughen the exterior of the existing tooth in order to provide the proper surface for the bonding material to adhere. Then a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the tooth. The resin is molded and smoothed to the desired shape. A special ultraviolet light that “bonds” the resin to the tooth hardens the material. Dr. Carmen will further shape, trim and polish the bonded material to match the appearance of the rest of the tooth, thereby restoring your tooth and improving your smile.

Advantages of Cosmetic Bonding

The first advantage of cosmetic bonding is that the procedure can usually be completed in a single visit, unless several teeth are involved. Secondly, cosmetic bonding rarely even requires local anesthesia. Finally, when compared to other cosmetic dental procedures such as veneers or crowns, cosmetic bonding is relatively inexpensive.

Call the Office of Dr. Carmen Today

Whether you just noticed that chipped tooth or you have a tooth that has been bothering you for a while, cosmetic bonding may be just the solution you’re seeking. Make an appointment with Dr. Carmen and his team in Norman, OK. We’ll be happy to speak to you about what cosmetic bonding can do for your smile. Dr. Carmen also serves patients throughout Central Oklahoma, Moore, Del City and the University of Oklahoma.

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Choosing Between Dentures and Dental Implants

September 29, 2014

Shutterstock Explaining Implants If you have missing or damaged teeth that need to be replaced, you may be considering a choice between dentures and dental implants. For a long time, dentures were the only option for people looking to replace teeth that had been lost or extracted. Today, you may also choose dental implants. The decision between dentures and dental implants shouldn’t be taken lightly and you should get all the facts before you make your choice. You can make an appointment with Dr. Carmen in Norman, OK,today to get those facts and discuss your options.

Dentures

Full and partial dentures are made of a series of one or more false teeth that are attached to a metal or plastic framework. Simulated gum tissue is added for a more natural look. Dentures are held in place with the use of an adhesive paste or wafers. However, their bond is not always secure; dentures can slip and move around while eating and speaking. Lower dentures tend to move more frequently and can cause gum irritation and sores. Dentures require daily cleaning and will eventually need replacement. Dentures also do not correct the missing tooth roots in your jaw, which may lead to jawbone recession and facial collapse.

Dental Implants

Choosing dental implants can eliminate some of these issues. The process starts with a tiny titanium implant that’s inserted into your jawbone to serve as the replacement tooth root and to preserve the bone structure in your jaw. A dental crown is then attached to the dental implant, serving as your prosthetic tooth. Implants will not slip or move, require far less maintenance than dentures and are the most permanent solution for tooth loss, often lasting a lifetime.

Dentures and Dental Implants in Norman, OK

Be proactive about your oral health and make an appointment with Dr. Carmen today for a free consultation about your choice between dentures and dental implants. Dr. Carmen restores smiles everyday throughout Norman, Del City, the University of Oklahoma, Midwest City, Moore, and Central Oklahoma.

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The Importance of Dental Care During Pregnancy

September 15, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry,Restorative Dentistry,Sedation Dentistry — Tags: Central Oklahoma, cosmetic dentistry norman, dr. bobby carmen, general dentistry, gum disease, Moore, Norman, Norman dentist, norman dentistry, oklahoma dentist, the University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma dentistry — admin @ 4:56 pm

shutterstock lumineers smile It’s reported that approximately 40 percent of pregnant women in the U.S. have some kind of oral health problem. The gum disease, gingivitis, affects 60 to 75 percent of pregnant women, and if left untreated, can develop into a more serious periodontal disease. Rises in hormone levels during pregnancy cause the gums to swell, bleed, and trap food, resulting in increased irritation to the gums. Preventive dental care during pregnancy, like dental cleanings and semi-annual exams, are not only safe, but are recommended for the health of the mother and baby. If you are pregnant, then make an appointment with Dr. Carmen today. Dr. Carmen is experienced, gentle and serves patients throughout Norman, OK, Central Oklahoma, Moore, the University of Oklahoma and Del City.

Dental Care Issues during Pregnancy

If you have a toothache during your pregnancy, see a dentist immediately. Pregnant women should not self-medicate dental pain because excessive doses of pain medication, such as Tylenol, can damage the liver and endanger the fetus. Dental care during pregnancy such as fillings and crowns should be treated to reduce the chance of infection and pain. The second trimester of pregnancy is the ideal time for needed dental work. However, postpone all unnecessary dental work, like cosmetic procedures, until after delivery.

Dental Care during Pregnancy can be comfortable and stress-free. If dental work is needed, the amount of anesthesia administered will be the minimum required. When the mother is comfortable, the amount of stress on the baby is reduced. Also, the more comfortable you are, the easier it is for anesthesia to work. If dental treatment requires antibiotics to prevent or treat infections, then antibiotics such as penicillin, amoxicillin, and clindamycin are safe to use during pregnancy and may be prescribed after a procedure.

Pregnancy Dental Care in Norman, OK

Dr. Carmen will take any necessary step to put an expectant mom at ease during your visit. Make an appointment with Dr. Carmen today to protect your health and the health of your baby. Dr. Carmen proudly serves patients throughout Norman, Central Oklahoma, Moore, the University of Oklahoma and Del City.

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Have Healthy Gums with Gum Disease Therapy

August 29, 2014

Filed under: Restorative Dentistry — Tags: Central Oklahoma, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, gum disease, Moore, Norman, restorative dentistry, the University of Oklahoma — dr_carmen @ 3:29 pm

472315273 Though many people think that the key components to a healthy smile are white, straight teeth, that cannot be further from the truth. It is important that with many things in life, in order to have a thriving result of any kind, you must have a healthy, solid foundation. Many people may not know this, but your gums are the foundation of your smile, and if they are compromised in any way, the results can be detrimental. Gum disease, also known periodontal disease, is the second most common disease facing Americans, as the first is the common cold. It is very important that if you are living with gum disease, you take care of it as soon as possible. Dr. Bobby J. Carmen is able to handle your gum disease by offering gum disease therapy at his Norman, OK dental office.

Though gum disease may not seem like a big deal to some, leaving it to its own devices can really be harmful, not only to your smile, but to your body as a whole. Untreated gum disease can lead to bone loss, tooth loss, TMJ, heart disease, stroke, and even dementia. Many people do not know that they are living with gum disease, which can be even more harmful. A few signs of gum disease are gums that are red and swollen, receding gums, gums that are sensitive to the touch, and discolored gums.

There are many ways that Dr. Carmen is able to handle your gum disease. He will perform scaling, which is removing the bacteria and tartar from below the gum line. There is also root planing, which involves smoothing the areas of the tooth’s root that have become jagged due to the tartar buildup. There is laser treatment, which will remove the infected gum tissue as well as promote the growth of healthy tissue, and for more advanced cases, there is surgery with a periodontist that we will refer you to. If you feel as though you are living with gum disease and would like the help of Dr. Carmen, contact our office today, and we would love to help!

Contact our Norman office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Carmen. Our team can’t wait to leave you with a happier and healthier smile. We also serve the areas of Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and beyond.

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Have A Flawless Smile with Porcelain Veneers!

August 15, 2014

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: Central Oklahoma, cosmetic dentistry norman, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, Moore, Norman, porcelain veneers, University of Oklahoma — dr_carmen @ 3:15 pm

137110504 There are many people that wish they could have the perfect smiles they see in the magazines and on television. A beautiful, flawless row of teeth is a sign of vitality, and having such a smile can be positive in the way you view yourself as well as the way you interact with others. Our smiles are used to show friendliness and communicate, and if that is compromised in any way, the effects can be damaging. If your smile is less than perfect, you may not know how you can achieve the smile of your dreams. Thankfully, Dr. Bobby J. Carmen is able to give you the smile you have always wanted by offering porcelain veneers at his Norman, OK dental office.

One of the main reasons why porcelain veneers are so popular is because they are able to completely revolutionize your smile is a short amount of time. If your smile is chipped, stained, misaligned, oddly spaced, or cracked, porcelain veneers are able to rectify the situation instantly, only revealing an impeccable smile! The first step is a consultation with Dr. Carmen, where he will be able to assess your smile in its current condition, as well as discuss your future smile goals with you. If you are a candidate for porcelain veneers, Dr. Carmen will then take impressions of your smile, and send them to a dental lab to have your custom veneers made.

When your veneers are being made, we will keep many things in mind, such as your smile wants as well as your facial features. We want your new smile to appear as natural as possible, making sure everything blends in seamlessly. Dr. Carmen will prepare your natural tooth by removing a small bit of enamel, ensuring there is space for your new smile. When your veneers are ready, Dr. Carmen will place them onto your prepared teeth, and make them permanent with dental resin cement. At the end of the procedure, you are left with a smile everyone will be envious of! If you would like Dr. Carmen’s help rejuvenating your smile using porcelain veneers, contact our office today, and we would love to help!

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Anti-Snoring Devices for a Quieter, More Restful Night of Sleep

July 24, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: anti-snoring devices, Central Oklahoma, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, dr. carmen, general dentistry, Moore, sleep apnea, the University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma dentistry — dr_carmen @ 2:26 pm

Shutterstock Sleep Apnea Couple Peaceful Does snoring cause problems in your relationship? For many couples, this noisy nuisance is enough to send one partner searching for a quieter place to sleep, even if it means spending the night on the couch so that the non-snoring party can finally get some rest. At Bobby J. Carmen, DDS in Norman, OK, we understand your need for uninterrupted sleep and our team wants to help. With the help of an anti-snoring device, Dr. Carmencan help you stop snoring and enjoy more restful sleep every night.

Stop Snoring Without Surgery

Depending on the cause of your snoring, surgical intervention may not be necessary. A customized oral appliance made especially for you can effectively offer relief from nighttime snoring by opening up your airway as you sleep. When the soft palate and tongue obstruct the passageway from your mouth to your lungs, the air you breathe in causes audible vibrations; this is what we know as snoring. When your wear your anti-snoring device, however, the tongue and jaw are held in their proper positions while you sleep. The result is a quieter night for both you and your partner.

Though not all people who suffer from snoring are affected by a condition called sleep apnea, the two are frequently connected. If you feel extremely tired during the day – even after a full night of sleep – ask Dr. Carmen about sleep apnea and how it affects your health. We’d be happy to offer treatment for this prevalent sleep condition as well.

Anti-snoring Devices: A Snoring Solution that Really Works

If you or your partner is affected by excessive snoring and you’re ready to make a real change, contact our office in Norman, OK today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Carmen and our friendly, experienced staff. We look forward to showing you how a simple change and a custom anti-snoring device can improve your overall quality of life. Our cutting-edge dental practice warmly welcomes patients from throughout Norman, Moore, Central Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma, Del City, Midwest City, and more.

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Cosmetic Gum Lift: Transform Your Smile with Dr. Bobby J. Carmen

July 10, 2014

Filed under: Cosmetic Dentistry — Tags: Central Oklahoma, cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dentistry norman, cosmetic gum lift, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, dr. carmen, Oklahoma, oklahoma dentist, the University of Oklahoma, the university of oklahoma dentistry, University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma dentistry — dr_carmen @ 2:22 pm

shutterstock_100520008 When you look at your smile in the mirror, do you like what you see? Do you feel confident in the appearance of your teeth and gums, as well as the way your smile impacts your overall appearance? For some patients, excessive gum tissue can make teeth appear short and stubby, negatively affecting the symmetry and balance of their smile. At Bobby J. Carmen, DDS in Norman, OK, Dr. Carmen and his team help patients with all kinds of cosmetic woes finally achieve the confident, gorgeous smiles they’ve always dreamed of. One of the ways we do this is with a procedure called a cosmetic gum lift.

Can a Cosmetic Gum Lift Help Me?

Many people who think that their teeth look too short (or that their smile is filled with too much gum in general) believe the problem to reside with the actual length of their teeth. Fortunately, this is not typically the case. The teeth are merely covered by too much gum tissue, hiding the healthy crowns of the teeth beneath. Using only the most advanced soft tissue laser technology, Dr. Carmen can effectively and carefully remove this excess gum tissue, revealing more of the tooth in a way that is completely safe. After a brief period of healing, you’ll see a completely transformed new smile emerge.

In order to determine if a cosmetic gum lift procedure is the right choice for you, Dr. Carmen will first assess the health and status of your gum tissue and teeth. If you are a good candidate for this solution, we will formulate a treatment plan that is specifically tailored to your individual needs. You’ll love your results, finally feeling fantastic about the way your teeth and smile look.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’d like to learn more about how cosmetic dentistry treatments can help you enjoy a bold, confident smile you’ll truly be proud to show off to the world, Dr. Carmen is here to help. Contact our office in Norman, OK today to schedule your appointment with our caring, experienced team. Our family-friendly, state-of-the-art practice also happily serves patients from throughout the surrounding areas, including Del City, the University of Oklahoma, Midwest City, Central Oklahoma, Moore, and beyond.

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How Air Abrasion at the Dentist’s Office Benefits You: No Drill Required!

June 20, 2014

Filed under: General Dentistry — Tags: air abrasion, Central Oklahoma, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, dr. carmen, Moore, Norman, Norman dentist, norman dentistry, the University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma dentistry — dr_carmen @ 3:40 pm

shutterstock_94075012 At the office of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen in Norman, OK, we believe that every patient should be made to feel as comfortable as possible during their dental visits, and we’ve taken steps to ensure that you and your family enjoy the highest level of comfort when you come to see us. Because the dentist’s drill is among the most uncomfortable aspects associated with oral healthcare, we opt for a less invasive, more enjoyable alternative that is still just as effective: air abrasion.

How Does Air Abrasion Work?

An air abrasion unit may be aptly compared to a miniature sandblaster, effectively spraying away areas of decay from the surfaces of a tooth. Tiny particles of aluminum oxide or baking soda are propelled with rapid force using a focused stream of compressed gas, removing painlessly the decayed material and preparing the area for further treatment, all without the use of a drill.

When compared to the traditional dental drill that is often used to prepare a tooth for a filling, air abrasion is preferable for a variety of reasons. Because air abrasion produces zero heat, pressure, or vibration, patients find that the experience is far more comfortable overall. In cases of shallow cavities, anesthesia may not even be necessary. The entire procedure is considerably quicker, even when multiple areas of the mouth require attention. Best of all, perhaps, is the fact that air abrasion is completely safe, so it’s an excellent choice for working with young children as well.

Only the Best for Our Patients

Contact our office today to discover the difference our dedication to patient comfort can make for you. We can’t wait to see your beautiful smile, and to show you how comfortable and relaxing your dental treatment can actually be in our warm, inviting atmosphere. Our family-friendly dental office in Norman, OK welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding areas as well, including Central Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma, Del City, Moore, and beyond.

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How Dental Implants Work: Rebuilding Your Smile with Dr. Bobby Carmen

June 9, 2014

Filed under: Dental Implants,Restorative Dentistry — Tags: Central Oklahoma, dental implants, dental implants norman, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, dr. carmen, Moore, Norman, Norman dentist, the University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma dentistry — dr_carmen @ 3:39 pm

shutterstock_119151670 The loss of a permanent tooth is always a traumatic experience, hindering your ability to eat and speak properly and causing you to feel self-conscious about your smile. At the Norman, OK dental practice of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, our caring, compassionate team understands the importance of a complete, healthy smile, and we’re happy to help patients with missing teeth regain their oral health with a variety of restorative dentistry options, including dental implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants

While missing teeth do cause a number of problems for adults – including the inability to speak and eat properly – there are numerous other drawbacks as well. For example, many patients don’t realize the vital role that a tooth’s root plays in the health of the jaw as a whole. In the absence of a tooth’s root, the bone in the jaw tissue gradually begins to deteriorate over time. This degradation can lead to the loss of additional teeth as well as a diminished facial shape. The gums sag and the jawline takes on a hollow appearance as the bone loses form.

When Dr. Carmen places dental implants, however, the new titanium “roots” actually aid in the stimulation of the jaw bone, thereby helping to prevent deterioration. The biocompatible implants serve as anchors for beautiful, stable restorations, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with complete confidence and comfort. A consultation with Dr. Carmen will determine which restorative dental procedure is right for your individual needs.

Schedule Your Visit Today

Whether you are missing a single tooth or you are in need of replacement teeth for an entire arch, we are here to help. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Carmen and our team. We look forward to helping you achieve lifelong oral health and a smile you can truly be proud of. Our conveniently located office in Norman, OK also happily serves patients from throughout nearby communities in Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Del City, Central Oklahoma, and beyond.

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The Role of Fluoride in Your Dental Health with Dr. Bobby J. Carmen

May 18, 2014

Filed under: dr. bobby j. carmen,General Dentistry — Tags: Central Oklahoma, dr. bobby carmen, dr. bobby j. carmen, dr. carmen, fluoride, general dentistry, Moore, Norman, Norman dentist, norman dentistry, oklahoma dentist, the University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma, University of Oklahoma dentistry — dr_carmen @ 7:57 pm

Fluoride plays an essential role in the health of our teeth, strengthening our enamel and preventing tooth decay. Understanding the way that fluoride benefits you is an important part of maintaining optimal oral health. At the Norman, OK office of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, our team helps patients keep their teeth strong and healthy with a variety of general dentistry services, including fluoride treatments when needed.

How Does Fluoride Affect Oral Health?

Fluoride can be found in a variety of ways, both naturally in the foods that you eat and in oral care products like toothpaste and mouthwashes. Your dentist can also apply fluoride to your teeth in order to further strengthen them. Fluoride diminishes plaque’s ability to form on the teeth, thereby reducing the patient’s risk of developing gum disease. Additionally, it actually promotes remineralization of the enamel, effectively reversing the earliest stages of tooth decay before cavities form.

While it is certainly most critical that patients between the ages of six months and 16 years receive a sufficient amount of fluoride to prevent serious decay, adults can definitely benefit from it as well. If your diet doesn’t include a lot of fluoride-rich foods, talk to Dr. Carmen about fluoride treatments.

Lifelong Dental Health

Whether you are the parent looking for the best ways to keep your child’s smile healthy and strong, or you’re an adult patient with questions about how fluoride may help protect your teeth, our team is here to help. Contact our office in Norman, OK today and schedule your appointment with Dr. Carmen and our caring, experienced staff. Our family-friendly dental practice happily welcomes patients from throughout the surrounding areas of Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, Del City, and beyond. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey toward lifelong oral health and wellness!

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