Flossing Properly

At the dental office of Dr. Christopher Emuedue, we want you and your family to continue healthy oral care routines at home. Regular flossing is essential to maintaining oral health and you should floss once a day, either before or after brushing. To get the most benefit out of flossing, remember these tips:

• Using a strand of dental floss about 18 inches long allows you to use a clean portion of floss between each tooth.


• Wrapping the ends of the floss around a finger on each of your hands gives you the best control.


• To floss, slide the floss between each tooth and rub the floss back and forth up until you reach your gums.


• Pushing at your gums too hard with floss can cause damage, and isn’t necessary to floss properly. Gently rub the floss up to one gum, then down and back up towards the other.


• As you move on to the next tooth, adjust the floss to expose an unused portion.


• Repeat this rubbing motion between each tooth and behind the back teeth.

 To learn more about flossing, oral hygiene, and all the services we provide, visit GreenvilleFamilyDentistryTX.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry, located at 7215 I-30, Suite B, Greenville, Texas, 75402, call 903-455-6701.

Causes of Bleeding Gums

Do you see blood in the water when you spit out your toothpaste? If so, that’s a problem. Gingivitis, or inflamed gums, is a common ailment, but it’s an ailment all the same and requires treatment and preventive effort.

Sometimes, people’s gums can bleed if they are brushing too hard with a hard-bristled brush. But in most cases, bleeding is the result of infection. Bacteria are always growing in the mouth and are often beneficial or harmless, but they can easily grow out of control in the gum pockets if they have enough food. Bacteria produce plaque around the gum line, which hardens into tartar. Acid sticks to plaque and tartar, irritating the gums and causing them to bleed.

Some factors put people at greater risk: smoking, pregnancy, blood thinners, and dry mouth. The last one is a common medication side-effect. People in these situations need to be especially vigilant about their oral hygiene (remembering that brushing needs to be done consistently, but not too hard), and to come in regularly for professional cleanings.

Dr. Christopher Emuedue operates Greenville Family Dentistry at 7215 I-30, Suite B, Greenville, Texas, 75402. To schedule an appointment, call 903-455-6701 or visit GreenvilleFamilyDentistryTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Cleaning Fixed Bridges

When patients at Greenville Family Dentistry get permanent bridges, we strive to ensure their new restorations last. Oral hygiene remains important for people with prosthetic teeth, but there are a few changes in habit they will need to make.

Keeping a fixed bridge clean of plaque requires that the gap between it and the gum line be flossed. To loop the floss around the bridge, patients will use a threader, which is a floppy device shaped like a sewing needle. People who have worn braces are already familiar with it. Patients might also be interested in specialty floss which has stiffened ends, allowing it to be pushed through the gap.

Christmas tree brushes, also known as proxy brushes, are another useful tool, particularly with implant-supported bridges which have larger gaps separating them from the gums. These brushes can be attached to longer handles for ease of use. Makers of electric toothbrushes and water picks are also manufacturing tips for use on implants, including those supporting multiple teeth.

Dr. Christopher Emuedue operates Greenville Family Dentistry at 7215 I-30, Suite B, Greenville, Texas, 75402. To schedule an appointment, call 903-455-6701 or visit GreenvilleFamilyDentistryTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

How to Care for Dentures

At Greenville Family Dentistry, we work hard to maintain our relationships with patients who wear dentures. Getting an artificial set of teeth does not end a person’s need for dental care, but it does change their oral hygiene routine.

Teeth naturally produce their own protective film that allows them to withstand the minerals in toothpaste which scrub away tartar. But dentures are much more delicate. They should only be brushed with specially-designed toothpaste and must be brushed all over, not just on the prosthetic teeth. While their dentures are out for the night, patients should continue brushing their gums and tongues using a soft-bristled toothbrush.

There are cleaning solutions available for dentures to soak in overnight, although room-temperature water will do. The important thing is that dentures be kept moist. Patients must be cautious, however, not to use hot water. The soft material of the prosthetic soft palette and gums can easily warp when overheated and will require professional attention to repair. It is likely that patients will need to have their dentures refitted over time, but they should not attempt to reshape them on their own.

Dr. Christopher Emuedue operates Greenville Family Dentistry at 7215 I-30, Suite B, Greenville, Texas, 75402. To schedule an appointment, call 903-455-6701 or visit GreenvilleFamilyDentistryTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Signs of Implant Failure

Dental implants are highly useful both for restoring teeth and stabilizing a jaw, but they need to be cared for just like normal teeth. Sometimes, if they are compromised by periodontal disease, or if there was a problem with their installation, they may fail. Considering how much trouble a patient went through to get an implant, this is always extremely unfortunate. That is why patients should be aware if something is going wrong with their implant as soon as possible.

Sometimes a problem will immediately be evident if the surgical wound fails to heal for several days after an implant is placed, or if the patient is in severe pain which does not dissipate over time. There are a few people who are allergic to the metal most implants are made of. An inexperienced dentist might also place an implant too close to a nerve, which would be the cause of severe pain. Patients can self-monitor for signs of infection, while doctors are responsible for monitoring changes in jaw bone size. If a patient loses too much jaw bone material, it is a sign that the implant is failing to integrate and stabilize the surrounding structure, and further investigation is necessary.

Dr. Christopher Emuedue operates Greenville Family Dentistry at 7215 I-30, Suite B, Greenville, Texas, 75402. To schedule an appointment, call 903-455-6701 or visit GreenvilleFamilyDentistryTX.com and fill out a contact sheet.

 

Toothbrush Care

Brushing your teeth plays an important everyday role for personal oral hygiene and effective plaque removal. You may not give much thought to cleaning your toothbrush; however appropriate toothbrush care and maintenance are important considerations for oral hygiene. At Greenville Family Dentistry, we want you to know how and when to replace, clean, and store your toothbrush.

The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush approximately every three to four months or sooner if bristles are frayed. However, toothbrushes will wear out more rapidly depending on factors unique to each patient. It is also important to never share a toothbrush because this practice could be a concern for people with compromised immune systems or existing infectious diseases. If your toothbrush comes in contact with another, thoroughly rinse the brush with warm tap water to remove any remaining toothbrush and debris. When you are done using the toothbrush, store it in an upright position and allow the toothbrush to air-dry until used again.

If you have further questions regarding toothbrush care, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

How to Choose the Correct Toothpaste

When stepping foot into the oral hygiene aisle at the drugstore, Dr. Christopher Emuedue of Greenville Family Dentistry, understands that the selections of toothpaste can be overwhelming. Should you go for tartar control, fluoride, sensitive or whitening toothpaste? When it comes to choosing the toothpaste that is best for you, it’s important to consider your unique oral health needs. Here are some options to consider while browsing:

• ·        Anti-cavity: This type of toothpaste contains fluoride. Fluoride plays an active role in preventing decay, and it actively strengthens tooth enamel.

• Anti-gingivitis: If you spit blood in the sink, this is an early sign of gingivitis, a mild form of gum disease. Anti-gingivitis toothpaste helps reduce oral bacteria and can be very effective at stopping gingivitis in its tracks.


• Desensitizing: If you’ve ever bit into an ice cream cone and felt a sharp pain in your tooth’s nerve, this type of toothpaste will provide relief by blocking the tooth’s pain signal to the nerve.


• Tartar-control: This toothpaste does exact what it says, however, the best way to remove tartar is by scheduling a professional dental cleaning with one of our doctors.


• Whitening: This toothpaste contains chemicals that are able to help maintain the natural color of your teeth.

If you have questions about oral hygiene, please give us a call. To schedule your cleaning in our Greenville, TX dental office, call Greenville Family Dentistry at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Choosing Mouthwash that Meets Your Needs

Mouthwash or rinses are used for a variety of reasons: to freshen breath, to help prevent or control tooth decay, to reduce plaque, to prevent or reduce gingivitis, to reduce the speed that tartar forms on the teeth, or to produce a combination of these effects. While shopping for mouthwash at your local drugstore, it is important when searching for the rinse that’s right for you to look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Mouthwash has many beneficial properties and Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry would like to explain a few.

• Antimicrobial agents act directly on oral bacteria to help reduce plaque, decrease the severity of gingivitis and control bad breath.


• Fluoride helps reduce tiny lesions (tooth decay) on tooth enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay.


• Astringent salts can serve as temporary deodorizers that mask bad breath.


• Odor neutralizers act by chemically inactivating odor causing compounds.

If you have questions about oral hygiene, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

Causes and Treatment for Sensitive Teeth

 

The good news is that sensitive teeth can be prevented by scheduling regular dental checkups at Greenville Family Dentistry, the bad news is that your teeth are likely unhealthy if they are already sensitive. You get sensitive teeth when your gums pull back and expose the surface beneath, called the dentin. This can happen if you brush too hard, develop gingivitis, grind your teeth or use tooth whitening products. 

In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of your teeth – the part above the gum line. Under the gum line a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Under both of these layers is the dentin which is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules. When dentin loses its protective covering, these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic and sticky foods to reach the nerves inside the tooth, resulting in hypersensitivity. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity, but practicing a good oral hygiene routine and brushing with a desensitizing American Dental Association (ADA) approved toothpaste should help reduce pain in the nerve. 

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, give us a call. For more information about oral health as well as the services we provide at the office, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

The good news is that sensitive teeth can be prevented by scheduling regular dental checkups at Greenville Family Dentistry, the bad news is that your teeth are likely unhealthy if they are already sensitive. You get sensitive teeth when your gums pull back and expose the surface beneath, called the dentin. This can happen if you brush too hard, develop gingivitis, grind your teeth or use tooth whitening products.

In healthy teeth, a layer of enamel protects the crowns of your teeth – the part above the gum line. Under the gum line, a layer called cementum protects the tooth root. Under both of these layers is the dentin which is less dense than enamel and cementum and contains microscopic tubules. When dentin loses its protective covering, these tubules allow heat and cold or acidic and sticky foods to reach the nerves inside the tooth, resulting in hypersensitivity. The type of treatment will depend on what is causing the sensitivity, but practicing a good oral hygiene routine and brushing with a desensitizing American Dental Association (ADA) approved toothpaste should help reduce pain in the nerve.

 

If you are experiencing tooth sensitivity, give us a call. For more information about oral health as well as the services we provide at the office, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

 

What is a Tooth Abscess?

At Greenville Family Dentistry, if you don’t schedule regular dental checkups or follow a proper oral hygiene routine, you risk developing a tooth abscess. An abscessed tooth is an infection within a tooth that has spread to the root tip or around the root. This infection originates from the tooth’s inner pulp chamber. Prior to the formation of an abscess, the tooth has essentially lost its ability to fight off infection, and bacteria are able to invade the pulp and multiply. As a result, the abscess appears as a collection of pus that is made up of dead white blood cells, tissue debris, and bacteria.

There are many causes for a tooth abscess. A very common cause is when a dental cavity becomes so large and deep that if it reaches the pulp chamber where an inflammatory process develops in the tooth. The initial symptoms begin with localized swelling and pain that gets progressively worse over time. A tender and sore mass (abscess) may then be felt with a finger and your gums may bleed.

If you experience swelling and pain in your gums or teeth, give us a call. For more information about oral health as well as the services we provide at the office, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

The Proper Flossing Technique

Every time you visit Greenville Family Dentistry for a checkup, there’s one question we will ask you, “Have you been flossing regularly?” The answer might be yes, or no, but what many of these “non-flossers” don’t realize is that this step plays an important role in dental health. Flossing does more than pick the food out of your teeth and keeping your smile clean and healthy. It prevents against gum disease and tooth decay. If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, utilize this proper flossing technique the next time you carry out your oral hygiene routine.

• Break off about 18 inches of floss and wind most of it around one of your middle fingers. Wind the remaining floss around the same finger of the opposite hand. This finger will take up the floss as it becomes dirty.


• Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and forefingers.


• Guide the floss between your teeth using a gentle rubbing motion. Never snap the floss into the gums.


• When the floss reaches the gum line, curve it into a “C” shape against one tooth. Gently slide it into the space between the gum and the tooth.


• Hold the floss tightly against the tooth. Gently rub the side of the tooth, moving the floss away from the gum with up-and-down motions. Repeat this method on the rest of your teeth and don’t forget the back ones!

If you have further questions about flossing or oral hygiene, give us a call. For more information about oral health as well as the services we provide at the office, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

What is a Cavity?

 

We all know that when we hear the word “cavity” that it isn’t necessarily a good thing, but what is it? Dental cavities, also referred to as caries, are holes in the teeth caused by the destruction of your tooth enamel. Two main factors contribute to cavities – bacteria in the mouth and a diet high in sugar. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry have a variety of options to fill cavities when they arise, however, we’d prefer that they didn’t. Here is how you can prevent your teeth from decay.

The most important thing you can do for cavity prevention is schedule checkups with your dentist regularly. Getting professional teeth cleanings and regular oral exams can spot them early and help prevent problems. You should also avoid foods and beverages that are high in sugar. If you don’t you should at least brush soon after eating them. Good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and ideally after every meal, using fluoride containing toothpaste. To clean between your teeth, floss or use an interdental cleaner to reach where your toothbrush can’t. 

For more information about dental hygiene or how to schedule an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry of Greenville, TX, call us at 903-455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

We all know that when we hear the word “cavity” that it isn’t necessarily a good thing, but what is it? Dental cavities, also referred to as caries, are holes in the teeth caused by the destruction of your tooth enamel. Two main factors contribute to cavities – bacteria in the mouth and a diet high in sugar. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry have a variety of options to fill cavities when they arise, however, we’d prefer that they didn’t. Here is how you can prevent your teeth from decay.

The most important thing you can do for cavity prevention is schedule checkups with your dentist regularly. Getting professional teeth cleanings and regular oral exams can spot them early and help prevent problems. You should also avoid foods and beverages that are high in sugar. If you don’t you should at least brush soon after eating them. Good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and ideally after every meal, using fluoride containing toothpaste. To clean between your teeth, floss or use an interdental cleaner to reach where your toothbrush can’t.

For more information about dental hygiene or how to schedule an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry of Greenville, TX, call us at 903-455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

 

Night Guards

If you or your sleep partner is suffering from teeth grinding, you know how it can interfere with getting a good night’s rest. At Greenville Family Dentistry, we offer solutions for teeth grinding.

 

Teeth grinding involves clenching the jaw and gnashing the teeth unconsciously during sleep. The exact cause of teeth grinding is not known, but it is very common and occurs in both children and adults. It some instances, grinding the teeth can lead to damaged teeth, jaw pain and headaches.

 

We offer custom fit night guards in order to treat teeth grinding. The night guard acts as a barrier between your top and bottom teeth, which prevents grinding and gnashing of your teeth.

 

The process of making a night guard is easy. We start by taking an impression of your teeth, and the guard is then made in a dental lab. Since your night guard is made specifically for you, it fits comfortably and allows you to breathe normally.

 

In addition to night guards, we offer a variety of services including periodontal treatment, bonding, extractions, TMJ treatment and other services.

 

For more information on teeth grinding treatment or in order to have a night guard made, please call Greenville Family Dentistry at 903-455-6701.

Periodontics: Caring for your gums

Periodontics: Caring for your gums

Caring for your teeth is an essential part of maintaining good oral health, but your gums also play an important role in your health, and proper care is crucial. Gum disease can be a serious detriment to your oral health and overall wellness, and Dr. Christopher Emuedue of Greenville Family Dentistry provides the regular periodontal and checkups you need to maintain peak periodontal health and prevent gum disease.

 

With periodontal disease responsible for 75 percent of all adult tooth loss cases in the United States, it is critical to check for and treat periodontal issues when they first arise. Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums that starts when a build-up of plaque on your teeth hardens into tartar. As the tartar accumulates, bacteria collect and attack the soft tissue in the surrounding gums. In its early stages, this gum disease is gingivitis, but if it is left untreated, it becomes periodontis. Periodontis can destroy your gum tissue and lead to tooth loss. Periodontis can even result in a loss of bone mass in your jaw bone, and heart disease, diabetes and stroke have also been linked to poor periodontal health.

 

The state of your gums affects the health of your entire body, so come to our office for periodontal cleanings and treatment. We can even refer you to a recommended specialist if you require special treatment. We will make sure your gums are well cared for. Call 903-455-6701 to schedule an appointment. For more information about our practice, visit www.GreenvilleFamilyDentistryTX.com.