Treatment for Impacted Wisdom Teeth from Dr. Bobby J. Carmen in Norman, OK

March 18, 2014

shutterstock_149966333Wisdom tooth extraction is a procedure that has been notoriously connected to extreme pain and inconvenience, but this often necessary surgery needn’t be so daunting or dreaded. In fact, with a dentist who is as caring as he is experienced and skilled, the management of impacted wisdom teeth can be quite a simple process. At the Norman, OK office of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, our team performs comprehensive general dentistry – including impacted wisdom tooth extraction – in a way that ensures your comfort and oral health from the moment you walk into our practice.

The Importance of Managing Wisdom Tooth Impaction

It is possible for wisdom teeth to develop normally, but in most individuals, this is not the case. When these extraneous molars are misaligned in any way, their development can begin to negatively affect surrounding teeth, gums, jaw bone, and other tissues in the oral cavity. Other teeth in the mouth may begin to crowd as the growing wisdom teeth place an inordinate amount of pressure on otherwise healthy teeth. Excessive crowding not only mars the aesthetic appeal of your smile, but can contribute to severe periodontal disease, tooth decay, and the need for orthodontic intervention.

When a wisdom tooth becomes impacted, it may remain locked beneath the gums or partially break through the tissue around it. A break in the gum tissue is approximately equal to an invitation for bacteria to accumulate there, potentially leading to infection and severe discomfort. The patient may suffer extreme headaches due to the pressure this applies to delicate nerves in the area. Fortunately, surgical removal of the offending teeth instantly halts this process, offering relief from pain and preventing further damage to other oral structures.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

If you or someone in your family is experiencing wisdom tooth impaction, contact our office in Norman, OK today and reserve your appointment with Dr. Bobby J. Carmen. Our caring, experienced staff will ensure that every step of your wisdom tooth extraction goes smoothly and that you are comfortable throughout the entire process. From our conveniently located dental practice, we also serve families from nearby areas in Central Oklahoma, Moore, the University of Oklahoma and more. We can’t wait to see your beautiful smile!

Escape the Daily Grind with Bruxism Treatment from Dr. Carmen in Norman, OK

February 28, 2014

The unconscious act of clenching the jaw and grinding the teeth is called bruxism and it can have a number of detrimental effects on your mouth and in your daily life. At the Norman, OK office of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen, we offer customized oral appliances that help keep your teeth and jaw muscles safe from bruxism so you can sleep comfortably and get the rest you deserve.

Causes and Treatment

Though most people with bruxism clench their jaws and grind their teeth at night while they’re asleep, some tend to find themselves engaging in this subconscious behavior during the day as well. The cause of this behavior is generally stress, anxiety or frustration. At night, the constant movements and pressure applied to the teeth and muscles can lead to unnecessary wear and tear, often leading to temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ.

Fortunately, treatment for bruxism is typically relatively simple and affordable for the majority of patients. First, Dr. Carmen will assess your teeth, your bite and the muscles of your jaw. A mouthguard will be custom-fitted to your mouth and you’ll be instructed to wear it at night to prevent further damage to your teeth. The mouthguard serves as a buffer while you sleep, preventing the grinding of tooth surfaces against one another. Patients who start wearing a mouthguard regularly tend to find that they feel noticeably better in the mornings after just a few days of using the device.

Rest Easy with a Mouthguard for Bruxism

If you think that you may be suffering from bruxism and you’re tired of all of its side effects, contact our Norman, OK office today to find out how simple it can be to rid yourself of nighttime teeth grinding. We happily serve patients throughout the surrounding areas of Moore, Central Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma and beyond.

 

Hidden Dangers of Periodontal Disease: What You Need to Know

February 8, 2014

You may already know that periodontal disease can cause a number of undesirable conditions in your mouth – red, swollen gums and bleeding, to name a few – but did you know that it can also affect other areas of your body as well? At the office of Dr. Bobby J. Carmen in Norman, OK, we treat all stages of gum disease to help you avoid the potentially dangerous consequences associated with this common oral health condition.

The Unexpected Connection

While the detrimental effects of periodontal disease are bad enough, the complications that can arise when the condition is left untreated are far worse. Aside leading to oral inflammation, pain and an increased risk of tooth loss, the bacteria that causes advanced gum disease can spread throughout your body and wreak havoc on vital organs and tissues. Some of the most common complications associated with untreated periodontal disease are:

  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Osteoporosis
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Heart attack
  • Diabetes
  • Stroke
  • Low birth weight and preterm delivery (in mothers with periodontitis)

Fortunately, proper treatment of the infection can significantly reduce your risk of developing these often life-threatening conditions. Dr. Carmen’s preventative periodontal therapy can restore the health of your gums and teeth, protecting you from these and other diseases. Following treatment, you simply continue to brush and floss twice per day and visit the office every six months for routine checkups and cleanings.

If you or a loved one suffers from untreated periodontal disease and you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier you, contact us at our Norman, OK office today to find out how Dr. Carmen can help you. We also serve patients throughout the surrounding areas of Moore, Central Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma and beyond.

 

Why Sleep Apnea Treatment Is So Important

January 30, 2014

Do you find that you regularly feel tired during the day even after you’ve slept all night? Have you ever been told that you snore loudly or that you seem to have trouble breathing while you sleep? These may be signs of sleep apnea and should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional. If you’ve been dealing with sleep apnea and its many undesirable side effects, Dr. Bobby J. Carmen and his caring staff in Norman, OK want to help you find the rest and rejuvenation you deserve from your sleep.

Complications of Sleep Apnea

As if excessive snoring and feeling exhausted as soon as you wake up isn’t bad enough, sleep apnea can actually lead to a whole host of other potentially dangerous problems if left untreated. Because instances of apnea throughout the night deprive the brain and body of vital oxygen, treatment should begin as soon as possible following diagnosis. Complications of untreated sleep apnea include the following:

  • High blood pressure
  • Pulmonary hypertension
  • Heart attack
  • Greater risk of stroke
  • Coronary artery disease
  • Respiratory failure
  • Atrial fibrillation, or irregular heart beat

Fortunately for people suffering from sleep apnea, Dr. Carmen treats this condition with specialized oral devices called mouth guards, night guards or snore guards. The comfortable oral appliance is custom-fitted to your mouth for optimal results. It keeps your airways open while you sleep to prevent lapses in breathing and loud snoring.

If you or your spouse is affected by sleep apnea, don’t suffer for one more night. Contact our Norman, OK office today and see how we can help you get the peaceful, restful sleep you want and need. We proudly serve patients from throughout Oklahoma City, the University of Oklahoma, Norman, Moore and beyond.

 

Get a Perfect Smile Now with Dental Veneers from Dr. Carmen in Norman, OK

January 15, 2014

If your smile is less than perfect – whether it be due to staining, crooked teeth or chips in the enamel – it can make you feel self-conscious in your daily interactions. You may even avoid smiling or laughing with others, hiding the condition of your teeth because you’re embarrassed of their condition. In our office in Norman, OK, Dr. Bobby J. Carmen and his team are dedicated to rejuvenating your smile, keeping it healthy and restoring your self-confidence in a way that suits your lifestyle. Porcelain veneers and Lumineers can perfect your teeth in as little as two visits.

How do Veneers and Lumineers Work?

Dental veneers are ultra-thin, stain-resistant sheaths of durable tooth-colored material that are affixed to the front surfaces of your existing teeth. They retain the natural look of teeth, correcting a variety of common dental problems. Undesirable issues resolved with the application of veneers and Lumineers include:

  • Yellowing and discoloration from coffee, red wine, tea and tobacco
  • Visible cracks in tooth enamel
  • Chips in front teeth
  • Misaligned or overly crowded teeth
  • Teeth that are too small or misshapen

The end result is a beautiful new set of perfectly aligned, brilliantly white front teeth. You can smile freely with the knowledge that you look fantastic all the time.

Lumineers and porcelain veneers are a simple and long-lasting solution to a flawed smile and may prove just what you need to reclaim yours. Contact our office in Norman, OK to schedule your consultation and see the difference that Dr. Carmen and this revolutionary procedure can make in your life. We happily serve patients in Central Oklahoma, Norman, Moore, the University of Oklahoma and more.

 

 

Start Fresh This School Year with the Dental Expertise of Dr. Bobby Carmen

September 20, 2013

The kids are back in school, and the first day of fall is almost here. What better time to forget those hectic summer schedules and start fresh? And of course, it’s always a good idea to start with your dental care. If you’ve been fruitlessly searching for a new dentist and practice that can accommodate your oral health needs with a kind and personalized touch, look no further than Dr. Bobby Carmen here in Norman, OK! We offer a wide variety of dental services to patients of all ages, from simple check-ups to more complex restorative and cosmetic treatments. If you’re new to our website, here are some helpful links that can teach you more about us!

  • Patient Services – learn more about the treatments we can offer you and your loved ones, all designed to leave your smile happier and healthier than ever before.
  • FAQs – do you have a question about oral healthcare? You may find the answer you’ve been looking for here!
  • Patient Resources – we believe strongly in patient education; that’s why we provide a wealth of valuable information here that can help you better understand our field of expertise.
  • Ask the Doctor – if you haven’t been able to find an answer to your question or concern in the first two links, feel free to ask Dr. Carmen! He’ll be happy to respond quickly and privately.
  • Patient Feedback – hear directly from our patients about the particulars of our care!

Contact our Norman office today if you have any questions, or if you’re ready to go ahead and schedule your appointment! We pride ourselves on providing dental care that’s comprehensive and compassionate, putting your comfort first at all times. We also serve the areas of Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, and beyond.

Give Your Teeth a Break with TMJ Therapy from Dr. Carmen

April 19, 2013

When asked to name common health conditions that a dentist could treat, most potential patients would probably start with typical ailments of the teeth and gums, such as cavities, cracks, and periodontal disease. But did you know that some of the greatest pain you can experience as a result of an oral-health condition isn’t caused by areas that you brush and/or floss around at all? Located just in front of your ears are small joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull, which are usually referred to as temporomandibular joints, or TMJ. While little, these joints are massively important; in fact, they contain a complex system of blood vessels, nerves, and bone. Worse, even a slight misalignment or problem can negatively impact both your dental health and your overall wellbeing. Here at Dr. Bobby Carmen’s Norman office, we don’t take problems with the TMJ (commonly called TMJ disorder) lightly. Our dedicated team will do everything in our power to help ease your pain and get you back to smiling sooner.

How can you help my TMJ disorder?

First, we’ll make sure to inspect your mouth and jaw for any possible signs of TMJ dysfunction during each regular check-up. If we detect any signs of the condition, we’ll work fast in order to prevent damage to your teeth, as well as relieve pain. In most cases, an oral appliance can help hold your jaw in a preferable position during sleep so as to relieve pressure. Additionally, there are several other methods that could help:

  • Stress management
  • New bite/chewing techniques
  • A new sleeping position
  • Light temple and jaw massage
  • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or analgesics

Don’t let pain from TMJ dysfunction ruin one more day – contact our Norman office to schedule an appointment. Dr. Carmen and his team are well-known for providing personalized, precise care that will put your comfort first. We’re also happy to see patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and Central Oklahoma.

Find Personalized Dental Care for Patients with Special Needs in Norman, OK

April 8, 2013

When you have a loved one who suffers from a serious mental or physical disability, making sure that they get the dental services they need can seem like an impossible task at times.  After all, a regular approach often won’t meet their unique needs, and it can even result in trauma or disaster. Here in Norman, OK, Dr. Bobby Carmen and his dedicated team are committed to providing excellent care to smiles of all shapes and sizes, no matter what the circumstances are. That’s why we’ve taken the time to learn the special needs that come with a variety of disabilities and adjust our services accordingly. We want you and every member of your family to feel welcome at our practice!

When caring for special needs patients, it’s crucial to understand their disabilities and the unique challenges that they pose. Here are a few examples:

Alzheimer’s

As this degenerative disease progresses, symptoms such as forgetfulness and dementia begin to affect every aspect of that person’s life, including their dental hygiene routine. Dr. Carmen recommends that patients with Alzheimer’s are brought in to his Norman office more frequently for check-ups and cleanings. Additionally, oral sedation and other measures that can induce relaxation may be necessary.

Parkinson’s

Tremors are usually associated with this condition, making it harder as time goes on to control even simple movements fully – a problem that can definitely affect brushing and flossing, which require fine motor skills. A large percentage of people with Parkinson’s also suffer from depression. Our team can ensure that these patients’ smiles stay full and functional, contributing to a higher quality of life.

Down syndrome

When it comes to people with Down syndrome, trust has to be a crucial aspect of their care. We’ll help you assure your loved one that they won’t be harmed or restrained in any way during their procedure. Because their immune systems may be compromised as well, we’ll take every precaution to prevent the spread of infection and keep a close eye on any possible signs of developing gum disease.

We’re here to give you and your family a reason to smile! Contact our Norman office today to learn more about our dental care for special needs patients, or if you’d like to schedule an appointment. Additionally, you can find out additional information about other conditions at this page. We also serve the areas of Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, and beyond.

Keep Little Smiles Safe with Children’s Dentistry Services from Dr. Carmen

February 26, 2013

As a parent, you do everything you can to keep your children healthy and happy, including watching their diet, making sure they exercise, and kissing their boo-boos – but what about their dental care? Little smiles are very susceptible to problems like improper development, decay, or dental injuries, but you may be worried about how your little one will react at the dentist’s office. Dr. Bobby Carmen understands how crucial it is for young children to have a pleasant and comfortable experience when they first come to our office; after all, establishing good dental hygiene habits now can set them up on a path towards lifelong oral health! That’s why our Norman practice is happy to offer a host of gentle, personalized children’s dentistry services, all guaranteed to keep little smiles shining brightly.

Your Child’s First Visit

Children often become anxious or upset when faced with places, people, or situations that are completely unfamiliar to them. That’s why Dr. Carmen recommends that parents bring their child to an appointment when they’re around one year old. This gives us the chance to explain how you should approach your child’s dental care as they grow older; we can also check for any developmental problems regarding tooth growth. This early visit introduces your child to the sights and sounds of our Norman practice early on; this way, when they come in for their first regular check-up, they’ll be familiar with our team already!

Around the age of three, your son or daughter should begin attending regular check-ups or cleanings. Our team will be sure to provide gentle care that pays close attention to your child’s unique needs. We can also show them the correct techniques for brushing and flossing! As we move forward, we can also provide them with other effective children’s dentistry treatments, such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments, which are used to keep teeth strong and cavity-free.

Here at the practice of Dr. Carmen, our team is happy to provide comprehensive care to every member of your family. Call our Norman office today with any questions you may have about our children’s dentistry services, or if you’re ready to schedule an appointment. We also serve patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, and beyond.

What Type of Sedation Dentistry Does Dr. Carmen Offer?

June 28, 2012

There’s more than one type of sedation dentistry out there to help patients, but not every dental office offers every kind. Some offices may only offer nitrous oxides, while others may favor IV sedation dentistry. But at Dr. Carmen’s Norman dental office, you’ll find that in addition to nitrous oxide we also offer an effective option called oral conscious sedation.

Oral conscious sedation uses a common prescription sedative to help patients enjoy more comfortable, stress-free dental visits. As a result, patients who have put off essential dental care because of anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or neck or shoulder pain can reclaim their oral health again. Oral conscious sedation also makes it possible for patients to undergo more work in a single appointment, reducing the number of visits a patient might need.

How Does Oral Conscious Sedation Work?

If you’ll be taking advantage of oral conscious sedation on your next visit, here’s what you can expect. First, during your welcome visit with Dr. Carmen, we can talk about any treatment questions you might have. Then, Dr. Carmen will finish your visit by explaining how oral conscious sedation works and writing your prescription.

On the night before your appointment, you’ll take one of your prescribed pills. This will help you to get a full night’s rest before your appointment. Then, on the day of your appointment, you’ll take another pill in preparation for your appointment. As this pill goes to work, you’ll feel relaxed, almost like you could fall asleep. But the best part is you won’t recognize pain or remember anything from your appointment afterwards.

Want to Learn More?

Are you ready to learn more about sedation dentistry and oral conscious sedation? Visit our page for sedation dentistry or call our Norman office to learn more. Dr. Carmen gladly serves patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, and beyond.

 

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