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.

 

Protect Your Smile from Gum Disease with Help from Dr. Bobby Carmen

November 18, 2013

Many dental patients are surprised to learn that the most common oral health ailment isn’t something simple like cavities or teeth grinding – it’s gum disease. In fact, a staggering 80% of the population is projected to suffer from a stage of this ailment. Also commonly referred to as a periodontal disease, gum disease is relatively harmless in its earliest stages, but if left untreated, it can lead to devastating consequences, including bone deterioration and tooth loss. That’s why it’s so important to attend regular check-ups here in Norman with Dr. Carmen! Our dedicated staff can thoroughly inspect your gums and provide customized therapy promptly if needed. If you’re between check-ups, here are some common symptoms that you can keep an eye out for in the comfort of your own home:

  • Gums that bleed during brushing and/or flossing
  • Persistent bad breath that isn’t alleviated by oral hygiene or mouthwash
  • Any tenderness, swelling, or discoloration concerning your oral tissues
  • Pain when chewing
  • Teeth that appear longer (it means your gums are receding)
  • A bite that feels different suddenly, or teeth that seem looser

In addition, here are some factors that indicate a higher risk of gum disease than normal:

  • If you smoke and/or use tobacco
  • If you have diabetes
  • If you take steroids
  • If you’ve undergone therapy for cancer

We have several methods available for treating gum disease, including scaling, root planing, antibiotic therapy, and laser treatment. If your case is advanced, we may recommend you to a trusted colleague who can provide periodontal surgery. We’ll be sure to select the treatment that best fits your unique needs and concerns!

Contact our Norman office today to schedule an appointment! Dr. Carmen and his staff are happy to welcome new patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and all over the state.

Keep Your Loved Ones Safe and Smiling with Special Needs Dental Care from Dr. Bobby Carmen

October 22, 2013

Caring for the needs of someone who is disabled can often be a challenge. After all, there’s so much to account for and arrange that sometimes, tasks simply can’t help but fall to the wayside. Oral health, for instance, may be difficult to keep up with for a number of reasons, resulting in decayed or damaged teeth and diminished structure. Here at the Norman practice of Dr. Carmen, we understand how complex and varied the needs of people with debilitating conditions can be – that’s why we’re here to take some of the burden off of you, their caretaker, by providing gentle dental services that take into account their unique needs and concerns. We’re well-versed in a number of conditions and are ready to pass on the benefits of our valuable expertise to you!

Dr. Carmen has experience treating patients with a number of illnesses, including:

Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease tends to lead increased forgetfulness and dementia as it progresses, which can take a heavy toll on one’s daily hygiene. Additionally, they may become confused in the dentist’s office or even frightened. We suggest that they be brought in for more frequent check-ups and cleanings in order to ensure optimal oral health, and our team can provide oral sedation or other comforts if deemed necessary.

Parkinson’s

Tremors are usually associated with Parkinson’s, making it hard for patients to control even simple movements. This can negatively impact their skill at brushing and flossing. Studies have found that many people with this condition also experience depression. We’ll be sure to take good care of these patients’ smiles, ensuring that they stay full and functional for years to come.

Down Syndrome

Trust is crucial when it comes to patients with Down Syndrome. We’ll help you assure your loved one that they’ll be perfectly safe under our care; additionally, because of the threat to their immune system, we’ll be sure to avoid any possible spread of infection.

Contact our Norman office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Carmen! Our team is committed to providing patients with personalized dental care that gives them a reason to smile brighter than ever before. We also serve the areas of Moore, the University of Oklahoma, Central Oklahoma, and beyond.

Dr. Bobby Carmen Can Help You Banish Bad Breath

October 11, 2013

Out of all the oral health problems a person can endure during their lifetime, bad breath is often considered both the simplest and the most embarrassing. After all, many of us have experienced the humiliation that comes when someone discreetly mentions you might need a breath mint. Even worse is the fact that bad breath can often be an indication of more serious problems, such as gum disease or cavities. If this condition is a common, frustrating element in your everyday life, contact your local dentist Dr. Carmen! Our team here in Norman will be happy to help you discover the source of this pesky problem with a check-up and offer you tips for how to effectively combat its presence in the future. These include:

  • Bad breath (also referred to as halitosis) is often caused by foul-smelling bacteria. While most of these can be banished with the help of diligent brushing and flossing, some tend to stick to the back of the tongue, which can be tough to reach. Invest in a tongue scraper! This device will go a long way in banishing bad breath and keeping your mouth fresh.
  • Likewise, using an anti-bacterial mouthwash every day can add a valuable extra layer of protection too.
  • Do you constantly suffer from dry mouth? Smelly food particles may be getting lodged in your smile and left to fester. Chewing in sugarless gum is a great way to facilitate saliva production and cleanse your mouth.
  • Experiencing bad breath every once in a while is nothing to worry about, but if it seems like a chronic condition, something serious may be at work. Come in to see Dr. Carmen as soon as possible so that we can get to the bottom of the problem.

Contact our Norman office today to schedule an appointment! We also welcome patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, central Oklahoma, and beyond.

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.

Dr. Carmen Can Help Keep Your Smile Safe during Sports with an Athletic Mouthguard

July 12, 2013

If you or your child regularly participates in a sport, then you know how important it is to always be wearing protective gear. Helmets, kneepads, and shin guards are all common staples, but have you ever stopped to the safety of your teeth? Nearly half of all injuries every year that are related to sports occur in or around the face, after. Dr. Carmen wants to ensure that your smile stays perfectly protected as you enjoy yourself on the field or court – that’s why he’ll be happy to offer you a custom athletic mouthguard at his Norman, OK office!

What exactly is a mouthguard?

A mouthguard is a piece of gear that covers your teeth, as well as your lips, tongue, and jaw. While it may seem obvious to wear one during heavy-contact sports such as boxing or football, the American Dental Association strongly recommends the use of one in nearly all sports, including baseball, martial arts, basketball, gymnastics, bicycling, and much more. There are good reasons for this – mouthguards have been shown to dramatically reduce the amount of mouth-related injuries that occur each year, even helping to reduce the severity of concussions.

There are several types of mouthguards, and Dr. Carmen and his staff can work with you to find the choice that best fits your unique needs. Ready-made mouthguards, mouth-formed mouthguards, and custom-made mouthguards all have their own advantages and disadvantages; that’s why it’s crucial to discuss your concerns with our team before deciding on one.  Additionally, remember that mouthguards should be worn during both games and practices, and that they should be regularly brushed and rinsed in order to avoid discomfort.

Contact our Norman, OK office today if you’d like to schedule an appointment! We can’t wait to give you and your family a reason to smile bigger and brighter! We welcome new patients from Moore, the University of Oklahoma, and all over the state.

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.

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