Diabetes and Teeth

People with poorly controlled diabetes are more prone to dental problems. They are more likely to develop infections of their gums and the bones that hold the teeth in place because diabetes can reduce the blood supply to the gums. If you have diabetes, please call our office to schedule a professional exam with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry to prevent further dental complications.

If you have diabetes, symptoms of dental problems include bleeding and sore gums, frequent infections, and bad breath. Whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, managing your blood sugar level is critical. The higher your blood sugar level, the higher your risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis. In addition, high blood sugar may cause dry mouth and make gum disease worse. The decrease in saliva can cause an increase in tooth-decaying bacteria and plaque buildup. You can prevent these problems by maintaining good blood sugar control, brushing and flossing and least twice a day, having a dental checkup every six months and especially by informing your dentist that you have diabetes.

If you are diabetic and have questions about oral care, please 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.

Is It Possible to Rebuild Tooth Enamel?

The tooth itself is a complex structure that consists of four layers. Three of them – enamel, dentin, and cementum – are hard tissues while the fourth tissue – the pulp or the center of the tooth that contains nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue – is soft. The enamel is what helps protect your teeth from daily use such as chewing, biting, crunching and grinding and can be damaged by frequent acid attacks.  Because the enamel is not living tissue, your body can't rebuild tooth enamel that has been damaged or worn away due to erosion from dietary acids. This is why Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry may recommend cosmetic options to rebuild and restore your enamel.

When enamel erodes, the tooth is more susceptible to cavities or tooth decay. When the tooth decay enters the hard enamel, it has entry to the main body of the tooth. Over time, as these cavities grow and penetrate the tooth, they can affect the tiny nerve fibers, resulting in an extremely painful abscess of infection if left untreated. Treatment of the tooth enamel loss will depend on the problem. Sometimes tooth bonding is used to protect the tooth and increase cosmetic appearance. If the enamel loss is significant, our doctors may recommend covering the tooth with a crown to protect against further decay.

If you desire a more aesthetically appealing smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. 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.

What is Oral Pathology?

Pathology can be defined as the scientific study of the nature of a disease and its causes, processes, development, and consequences. Oral pathology is the specialty that identifies and treats diseases of the mouth and maxillofacial region. Some of the diseases that Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry diagnoses may include mouth and throat cancer, mumps, salivary gland disorders, ulcers, and more. 

When an abnormality is discovered either by the patient, dentist or healthcare provider, a referral is often made to an oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Diagnosis is completed through radiographic, microscopic, biochemical and other in-office examinations. Because the mouth is readily accessible, changes indicative of oral cancer or a pathological process can easily be detected in the early stages. Pain is not always necessary to define pathology and is not often associated with oral cancer. However, any patient with facial and/or oral pain without an obvious cause or reason may also be at risk for oral cancer.

If you are concerned about oral cancer, give us a call to discuss your options. 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.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

A composite filling is a tooth-colored plastic and glass mixture that Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry uses to restore decayed teeth. Composite resins, or tooth-colored fillings, provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small to mid-size fillings that need to withstand moderate pressure from the constant stress of chewing. They are an excellent choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural.

Many people are more conscious about the way they look, therefore they don’t want silver fillings that show when they laugh or smile. It generally takes longer to place a composite filling than it does for a metal filling and that’s because composite fillings require the tooth be kept clean and dry while the cavity is being filled. Composites bond to the tooth to support the remaining tooth structure, which helps prevent breakage and insulate the tooth from excessive temperature changes. Although no filling lasts forever, maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine can help your filling live up to its maximum potential.

If you have further questions about the type of fillings we offer, 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.

The Benefits of Lumineers

If you have gaps, cracks, misaligned teeth, or discolored teeth, look no further for the ultimate cosmetic upgrade. At Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, Lumineers are helping patients put their best smile forward.

Lumineers are ultra-thin porcelain veneers that are bonded right to the front of your existing teeth. They are durable to last over twenty years but are completely reversible if desired. They work well to fix the look of gaps, cracks, stains, and much more.

Lumineers are created in a dental laboratory to be completely customized to your smile. They are made to fit your teeth and look natural in your mouth. First, your dentist will take impressions of your upper and lower teeth, along with photos that will help the creation of each shell. When the shells are ready to be placed, your dentist will lightly etch the surface of your tooth for a strong bond, and then place the Lumineers. Since there is minimal prep needed for your existing teeth, you will not need to wear temporary shells at any point.

If you are looking for a brand-new smile, Lumineers may be perfect for you. To schedule an appointment at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call us at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

How ZOOM! Whitening Works

When your favorite drink ends up being the culprit for a dull smile, it can be difficult to avoid it. At Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we know that life happens. Fortunately, we offer ZOOM! Whitening here in our office for a drastically whitened smile.

Only available to dentists, this professional teeth whitening system will create results well beyond what store-bought kits can do. In addition, there is no room for error since it is being administered by your dentist. This means you will get the best results possible without harming your teeth and gums.

ZOOM! Whitening works by combining a whitening gel with an LED light to accelerate the chemical process. The whitening gel breaks up the carbon bonds that hold in discoloration below the enamel’s surface. This process is completed right here in our dental office in about one hour.

Results will depend on the patient’s current level of staining and how white they would like their teeth to be. ZOOM! whitening can provide a smile six to ten shades within you one appointment.

If you are looking to brighten up your smile, consider scheduling an appointment with us for ZOOM! Whitening. To schedule your appointment in our Greenville, TX office, call (903) 455-6701 or visit our Greenville Family Dentistry website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

How to Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At Greenville Family Dentistry, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit us at Greenville Family Dentistry for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, 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.

Oral Conscious Sedation: Sit Back and Relax

Though Dr. Christopher Emuedue will decide which sedation options are appropriate for your dental treatment, being familiar with the kinds we offer at the practice might make you a little more comfortable during your next visit. Whether you suffer from dental anxiety or desire a little more relaxation in the dental chair, Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry is here to make you feel as comfortable and calm as possible through oral conscious sedation.

Depending on the total dose given, oral sedation can range from minimal to moderate. For minimal sedation, you take a pill, and it’s usually taken about an hour before the procedure. This pill will make you drowsy, but you’ll still be awake and able to respond to Dr. Christopher Emuedue’s questions and commands. Recovery may take a little longer with this type of sedation, and you’ll need an escort to drive you home for your safety.

If you suffer from dental fear, please inform us when scheduling your next appointment. 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.

Find Relief from Dental Anxiety

Some people don’t look forward to dental appointments any more than they look forward to paying bills. In fact, 20% of patients experience enough anxiety that they will only go to the dentist when absolutely necessary. Fortunately, Dr. Christopher Emuedue has a team of health-centered professionals that are dedicated to making you feel most comfortable in the dentist’s chair.

People develop dental anxieties for many different reasons. Pain, feelings of helplessness and loss of control, embarrassment, and negative past experiences only name a few. Everyone has fears and concerns and copes with them in different ways. However, the prospect of dental work doesn’t need to fill you with fright. At Greenville Family Dentistry, we want to help you greatly reduce your anxiety and provide you with dental treatment in a way that feels calm and safe. After all, in order to counteract past bad experiences, you need to have new positive experiences which lead to the development of improved feelings and attitudes.

If you have a case of dental anxiety, please inform us when scheduling your appointment. 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.

Apicoectomy after Root Canal

A root canal is a treatment that is used to repair and save a badly damaged or infected tooth. During root canal treatment, your dentist cleans the canals using special instruments called files to remove inflamed or infected tissue. When an infection develops or won’t go away after root canal treatment or retreatment, Dr. Christopher Emuedue of Greenville Family Dentistry may recommend an apicoectomy.

Root canals may become re-infected for a variety of reasons. These include new or recurrent decay, previously undetected accessory (extra) canals branching from the primary canal at the root end of the tooth, and occasionally, calcification of canals. An apicoectomy is done only after a tooth has had at least one root canal procedure and retreatment has not been successful. It is a minor surgical procedure in which the very tip of the tooth’s root is removed and sealed.

If you have a tooth infection related to a root canal gone wrong, give us a call to discuss your treatment options. 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.

What is an Underbite?

The main cause of an underbite is a misalignment of the lower jaw, which is usually present at birth. An underbite, clinically called prognathism, is the malocclusion or “bad bite” that happens when the lower teeth overlap the upper teeth. Just because your mouth may have this problem doesn’t mean that it’s untreatable. If you have been diagnosed with an underbite, with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry can correct the problem with dental braces.

Although far less common than overbites, underbites still affect 5-10 percent of the population. An extreme underbite can cause facial abnormality, resulting in an extended chin. In addition to the aesthetic problem, underbites including difficulty with chewing, swallowing, and speaking. Underbites may also wear down tooth enamel and increase your chances of developing tooth decay or other dental problems such as TMJ disorder.

If you would like to discuss malocclusion treatment options, please give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our practice, visitwww.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

Brushing and Flossing with Arthritis

Stiff and painful hands due to arthritis can make oral care a hassle. It may lead you to skip brushing and flossing more often. However, at Greenville Family Dentistry, we want all of our patients to feel comfortable taking care of their teeth. Take some of these tips for oral care with arthritis.

To make brushing easier, choose a toothbrush with a thick handle and a non-slip grip. It helps with grasp and manipulation of the brush so you can reach all areas of your mouth. There are toothbrushes made especially for those with arthritis. A small head will also help with reach. Electric toothbrushes may help you get a better brushing as they do most of the work. You just need to hold them in the right position.

For flossing, tying the floss into a loop will help you with grasp. For those who do not want to hold onto string floss, flossing picks are also available where other dental supplies are sold. These can make flossing easier for difficult hands.

Arthritis and other difficult hand conditions can change the way you do things, but it is still important to keep up with oral care! To schedule your next cleaning at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call us at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

How Grinding Your Teeth at Night Makes Teeth Sensitive

Do you wake up with a sore jaw in the morning and realize you have been grinding or clenching your teeth at night? This condition called bruxism, can cause more than a sore jaw. It can actually harm your teeth by wearing them down. At Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we offer night guards to protect our patients’ teeth from grinding. Keep reading to find out how grinding will cause pain and sensitivity to your teeth.

Continual grinding of your teeth can start to wear down enamel. When the enamel is worn down, it exposes nerve tubules which lead to the nerve center of the tooth. This will lead to that sensitive feeling that can be present when eating or drinking cold or hot foods, brushing your teeth, or even during air exposure. While there are toothpastes that can help decrease sensitivity, there is nothing that beats your enamel. In addition, the worn down enamel can make your teeth prone to cavities.

If you grind your teeth at night, a night guard can offer you protection. To set up an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call us at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Anxiolysis Sedation

At Greenville Family Dentistry we offer sedation options for a variety of reasons, ranging from tooth sensitivity during a procedure to patients who suffer from dental fear. Some people don’t look forward to dental appointments any more than they look forward to visits to their primary physician, but at our dental practice we promise to make you as relaxed as possible during your appointment.

The purpose of sedation dentistry is to allow a dentist to work more effectively by helping a patient become as comfortable as possible with the use of sedative medications administered orally and sublingually. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry, one of the types of sedation we offer is anxiolysis. The definition of anxiolysis is simply, “a reduction in anxiety,” to supply the patient with a light level of sedation and take the edge off. It is not as strong as oral conscious sedation, so it is recommended for those with mild to moderate anxiety. After the procedure, you will even be able to drive yourself home, since anxiolysis uses a light sedative, such as valium.

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.

Overbite Complications

If you have been diagnosed with an overbite, this simply means that your top teeth extend beyond your bottom teeth. It is a common dental problem that Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry can correct with dental braces. Overbite teeth are considered a type of “bad bite.” It can either be noticeable or unnoticeable, but it some extreme cases it can make your jaw look significantly larger or your bottom jaw look much smaller.

Most often, overbites are inherited as traits just as the color of your eyes or the freckles on your cheeks. Other causes of misaligned bites may result from an early loss of baby or adult teeth, gum disease, or common oral health problems in children, such as thumb sucking. Once Dr. Christopher Emuedue confirms your overbite with X-rays, he may take regular photographs of your face to further examine the relationship between the teeth, jaws, and head. From there, an individualized treatment plan will be developed to give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.

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.

Straight Teeth are Healthy Teeth

 

Swollen red gums can often be the result of having teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced. When teeth are properly aligned, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems. In Greenville, TX, Dr. Christopher Emuedue can provide you with a variety of options to straighten your teeth so that you can have a beautiful healthy smile.

When teeth are properly aligned, they’re easier to clean and when your teeth are clean and dental plaque free, you’re less likely to need a tooth filling or gum disease treatment. When teeth are straight, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems. 

Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria. Left untreated, they can cause mouth sores, tender or bleeding gums, bad breath, and possible tooth loss. Correctly aligning your teeth can also alleviate the issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems and increased wear on the tooth enamel. 

If you would like to discuss your orthodontic treatment options, please 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.

Swollen red gums can often be the result of having teeth that are crowded or too widely spaced. When teeth are properly aligned, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems. In Greenville, TX, Dr. Christopher Emuedue can provide you with a variety of options to straighten your teeth so that you can have a beautiful healthy smile.

When teeth are properly aligned, they’re easier to clean and when your teeth are clean and dental plaque free, you’re less likely to need a tooth filling or gum disease treatment. When teeth are straight, it helps the gums fit more securely around the teeth, allowing for the strongest and healthiest defense against potential periodontal problems.

Tooth decay and gum disease are caused by bacteria. Left untreated, they can cause mouth sores, tender or bleeding gums, bad breath, and possible tooth loss. Correctly aligning your teeth can also alleviate the issues that can be caused by an improper bite, speech or chewing difficulties, jaw problems and increased wear on the tooth enamel.

If you would like to discuss your orthodontic treatment options, please 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. 

Let Us Explain, Novocain

When you think of the dentist, our staff at Greenville Family Dentistry is almost certain that you’re wondering about how to not feel a thing. Depending on the procedure at hand, you will either be given a local or general anesthetic. Local anesthesia allows the patient to remain awake, while general anesthesia allows the patient to sleep. If you are told you’ll be receiving a local anesthetic, “Novocain” probably comes to mind. Novocain is commonly used to suppress pain in patients who remain conscious. During your consultation, our doctors will determine if Novocain is appropriate for your treatment plan and if it is the best option for you.

Novocain is normally injected into an area during oral surgery and other dental procedures to numb the surrounding tissues. Like any medication, however, side effects include numbness around the injection site that can last for several hours, a tingling sensation around the injection site, as well as minor swelling around or near the injection site. Novocain is a good option for some, but not for others. Be sure to provide us with as much information about your medical history as possible so that you and our doctors can make an informed decision.

If you would like to discuss sedation options, 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.

Nitrous Oxide Sedation

Some people would rather endure the agony of a toothache rather than step foot in a dentist’s office, while others simply desire relaxation during an appointment. Nitrous oxide, sometimes called “laughing gas,” is one option Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry may offer to patients to help make them more comfortable during certain procedures. If you are a candidate for sedation, our staff at Big Smiles Family Dentistry is here to make you feel as calm and comfortable as possible.

Nitrous oxide is the most commonly used form of sedation dentistry. It is a safe and effective sedative agent that is mixed with oxygen and inhaled through a small mask that fits over your nose. It is not intended to put you to sleep. Therefore, you will be able to hear and respond to any requests or directions Dr. Emuedue may have for you. When nitrous oxide is being administered you will breathe normally through your nose and within a few short minutes begin to feel the effects.

If you have questions about our sedation options, 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.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

If you are receiving dental implants in the near future, Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry doesn’t want you to be frightened, he wants you to be informed on what to expect. Pain is a common concern among individuals who are considering dental implants and we want you to know that while some discomfort is expected, it shouldn’t be your primary concern.

As with any major dental procedure, or surgery in general, some discomfort is to be expected during the recovery process since it is a surgery that typically involves removing teeth, cutting gums, drilling into the jawbone and inserting a titanium post. The procedure itself is not painful since it is performed with either general or local anesthesia to completely numb your mouth. If you’re anxious about the discomfort during the procedure and being aware of drilling noises and forces being applied to your mouth, please ask us about our sedation options.

If you have further questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, 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.

Brushing with Braces

If you have braces, you should be working overtime on practicing proper oral hygiene. This is because braces have tiny spaces where food particles and plaque get trapped, and inadequate cleaning while wearing these wires can cause enamel staining and tooth decay around brackets or bands. At Greenville Family Dentistry, Dr. Christopher Emuedue can’t stand behind you and monitor how you often you brush, but he can provide you with the following routine that will help make daily brushing and flossing both simple and effective.

• Prepare to brush – take off elastics, and any other removable parts of your orthodontic appliance.


• Clean your braces – use your brush at a 45-degree angle to clean around the wires and pins of your braces. Brush from the top of each wire and then from the bottom. Take time to ensure that all plaque and debris are removed.


• Brush your teeth – clean each tooth individually. First, place your brush at a 45-degree angle to the junction between the tooth and the gum, and then apply gentle pressure as you move in a circular motion. Use the same brushing action on all outer and inner tooth surfaces, tilting the brush as needed to better reach the insides of smaller front teeth.

Last but not least, don’t forget to floss in between brackets!

If you have further questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, 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.

Dental Sealants for Extra Protection

Dental health is important right from the start! It is important to start good dental hygiene in childhood. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we can place dental sealants on molars so they are further protected from decay.

Dental sealants are literally seals that go over your molars. Since molars commonly have dips and grooves in them, they can be prone to cavities, especially in kids. Bacteria and other debris can be hard to brush away and it can lead to decay.

To apply the sealants, the teeth are first cleaned and dried. An acidic solution is then placed on the teeth to roughen up the surface. This aids a strong bond between the sealant and the tooth. The acidic solution is rinsed off, the teeth are dried, and the sealant is painted onto the surfaces. A light is then used to harden the area. 

Sealants are great for kids to protect their baby teeth and their adult teeth. Sealants are also great for adults who have never had a cavity or a filling in their molars.

A little extra protection could go a long way when it comes to dental health. To schedule an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call our office at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Why Do We Have Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth can cause major pain or complications to the point where they need to be extracted. At Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we can perform experienced extractions for our patients. With all of these extractions needed, you may be wondering why we even have wisdom teeth in the first place. Keep reading to learn more!

The theory behind our wisdom teeth is that around 20,000 years, they were probably more necessary than they are now. Back when humans ate tougher foods like nuts, roots, and raw meat, the extra teeth may have helped with chewing. These days, we have a wide variety of foods to eat and we can cook them so they are easier to eat.

In addition, human faces and jaws have become smaller over time. So when the wisdom teeth grow in, there is often not enough room for them. Some people are born without them or only some of them.

If you are experiencing signs that your wisdom teeth are growing in, be sure to schedule an appointment with us so we can evaluate them. Appointments may be scheduled for Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX by calling our office at (903) 455-6701 or by visiting our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Flossing with Braces

At Greenville Family Dentistry, Dr. Christopher Emuedue will tell you that flossing can be difficult when you have traditional metal braces. However, it’s more important than ever to keep the gaps in your teeth clean when you have a mouth full of metal. Many folks who have braces don’t know how to floss with them or think that they can’t floss at all if they have braces and this is not true. Therefore, here are some tips for flossing effectively and keeping those brackets and wires clean.

• Use waxed floss, because unwaxed floss is more likely to get caught and shred in your braces.


• Use about 18 inches of floss and thread it carefully.


• Take the floss and gently thread it under the main wire of the braces before passing it between two teeth. Then remove the floss and re-thread it under the main wire to pass between the next pair of teeth.


• Be sure not to snap the floss. Simply move the floss up and down carefully against the side of each tooth.

If you have further questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, 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.

How a Night Guard Protects Your Teeth

Grinding your teeth at night can lead to pain, TMJ problems, and the wear-down of your teeth. To protect our patients’ teeth and jaw joints, at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we provide our patients with custom-fitted night guards.

The night guard is a plastic mouth guard worn while sleeping or even while awake if needed. Each guard is customized for each individual patient so it fits them uniquely. It creates a barrier between your upper teeth and lower teeth so that grinding at night does not wear down teeth or cause damage. Night guards can last for up to ten years, depending on the patient’s use.

If you wake up with a sore jaw, tender teeth, or are experiencing sensitivity to your teeth, be sure to visit us for an examination. A custom-fitted will offer you protection while still being comfortable to wear.

To learn more about night guards, or the damage grinding your teeth can do, visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. To schedule an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call our office at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website. 

How Scaling and Planing Helps Fight Gum Disease

Gum disease is irritating, painful, and if not treated, it can lead to major oral health problems. Not to mention, it can seriously affect the aesthetics of your smile. When gum disease has progressed down near the roots of teeth, a scaling and root planing procedure must be performed to remove the bacteria and allow healthy healing. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry, we perform scaling and planing right in our Greenville, TX office.

Disease gums begin to pull away from the teeth. This creates gum recession and deep gum pockets. Bacteria can hide in these pockets and cause problems below the gum line. It also makes clearing up gum disease much more difficult. The tooth roots are now vulnerable to the bacteria and can be decayed. When left untreated, this will eventually lead to the loss of the tooth and further spread of infection. In order to clean out the bacteria, a scaling and planing procedure is performed. A scaling procedure is first performed with a metal tool that will scrape the tooth clean of any bacteria. A planing procedure is then the process where the tooth is smoothed out. Any rough patches where bacteria can hide in are smoothed down. This process is usually completed in a couple of appointments. Depending on the level of disease, the mouth may be split into several sections for completion.

If you are experiencing signs of gum disease including bleeding gums, sores, and pain, do not wait to schedule an appointment with us. To schedule at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call our office at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Stages of Gum Disease

If you want to keep your permanent teeth for a lifetime, then you need to listen when Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry tells you to brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. Gum disease is an inflammation of the gums that can progress to affect the bone that surrounds and supports your teeth. Additionally, there are three stages that you need to be aware of. You should always schedule professional cleanings and oral exams twice a year to keep your teeth healthy.

• Gingivitis – This is the earliest stage of gum disease, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup at the gum line. If daily brushing and flossing do not remove the plaque, it produces toxins that can irritate the gum tissue, causing gingivitis. This is when you’ll notice blood in the sink after you complete your brushing routine. However, at this early stage, damage can be reversed, since the bone and connective tissue that hold the teeth in place are not yet affected.


• Periodontitis – This is the second stage of gum disease. By this point, the supporting bone and fibers that hold your teeth in place are irreversibly damaged. Your gums may even begin to form a pocket below the gum line, which traps food and plaque.


• Advanced Periodontitis – This is the final stage of gum disease, and the fibers and bone supporting your teeth are officially destroyed. In this case, your teeth may begin to shift or loosen and your bite may also be affected. If aggressive treatment can’t save them, the teeth will need to be extracted.

If you experience gum inflammation, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. 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.

Details on Dental Emergencies

Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry understands that accidents happen and knowing what to do when one occurs can mean the difference between saving and losing a tooth. If you or your child experience some sort of trauma to your mouth for whatever reason, please give our office a call immediately. Meanwhile, in the midst of a dental emergency, utilize these tips to ensure a smooth recovery. 

• For a knocked-out permanent or adult tooth, keep it moist at all times. If you can, try placing the tooth back in the socket without touching the root. If that’s not possible, place it between your cheek and gums, or use a tooth preservation product that has the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance.


• For a cracked tooth, immediately rinse the mouth with warm water to clean the area.


• If you bite your tongue or lip, clean the area gently with water and apply a cold compress.


• For toothaches, rinse the mouth with warm water to clean it out. Gently use dental floss to remove any food caught between teeth.

If you experience a dental emergency, call us immediately. 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.

Tips for a Camera-Ready Smile

At Greenville Family Dentistry, we always want our patients to have a camera-ready smile. With a variety of whitening options to choose from, we can restore the natural color of your teeth or even make them whiter than your natural color, if you would like. However, if there is any reason you can’t go the cosmetic route at this moment, we’d like to provide you with some tips to show off the smile you already have!

•  Be natural – when it’s picture time, smile gently. That way, your face looks relaxed. Your mouth opens slightly, and your lower lip matches the curve of your upper teeth.

• Check your teeth and gums – getting your smile camera-ready sometimes calls for a little behind the scenes prep work. If your pearly whites have yellowed with age, try an over-the-counter whitening product or pay us a visit! Also, don’t forget about taking care of your gums. They play a critical role in your nice smile. So keep them in good shape by brushing, flossing, and rinsing with a mouthwash every day.

• Practice – your perfect smile may not happen overnight, but if you have a big photo event like a wedding or a graduation coming up, it doesn’t hurt to try out your grin in front of the mirror!

If you wish to improve the appearance of your smile, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

Different Reasons for Tooth Extractions

Although permanent teeth were meant to last a lifetime, having a tooth pulled is sometimes necessary. At Greenville Family Dentistry, Dr. Christopher Emuedue would like you to know that before he considers extraction, every effort will be made to try to repair and restore your tooth.  You’re probably most familiar with wisdom teeth extractions, but other reasons for the procedure may include:

• Severe tooth damage/trauma – some teeth have such extensive decay and damage (broken or cracked) that repair is not possible.


• Orthodontic treatment – people getting braces may need teeth extracted to create room for teeth that are being moved into place.


• Some teeth may need to be extracted if they have the potential of becoming infected.


• Extra teeth – extra teeth may block other teeth from erupting, therefore, will require extraction.

If you have a tooth that is causing you pain, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistry.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call 903-455-6701.

Occlusal Adjustments for Uneven Bites

Do you feel like your jaw or bite is uneven? You may have malocclusion. This can cause pain, sensitivity, and even damage to your teeth. At Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we perform occlusal adjustments so that our patients can have a set of chompers that meet and distribute pressure evenly.

An occlusal adjustment is performed using a fine filing stone and a dental drill. An advanced computer system scans the mouth to detect the uneven alignment. This technology can pick up even the tiniest difference. We then use the filing stone to make minor adjustments to the teeth so that they will meet together correctly.

When teeth are misaligned, biting and chewing can introduce uneven pressure in the mouth. This can cause difficulty with chewing food. It can also result in damage to the teeth like fractures and worn down enamel. Pain, sensitivity, and pressure are common symptoms of malocclusion.

If you have been experiencing an uneven feeling and pain in your teeth or jaw, you may benefit greatly from an occlusal adjustment. To schedule an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry, call our Greenville, TX office at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Consequences of Missing Teeth

As children, we all experience tooth loss – our baby teeth begin to fall out around the age of six to make room for our permanent teeth. If all goes according to plan, our “adult” teeth will erupt and stay there for the rest of our lives. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Although tooth loss is typically associated with the elderly, sometimes we experience dental trauma that may knock them out sooner than expected or other dental problems. Whatever the reason may be, if you are missing teeth, our staff at Greenville Family Dentistry offers a wide variety of restorative and cosmetic treatment options to give you a brand new smile.

Although a missing tooth might look cute on a child, it’s no laughing matter as an adult. Not only will one’s smile be affected by the gaps from missing teeth, but if he or she is missing too many teeth, the skin around the mouth won’t be properly supported and will start to sag, making the individual appear older than they are. This can hurt one’s self-esteem, impact their social life and even lead to depression down the road. Like most dental problems, the dramatic effects produced by missing teeth will increase if left untreated. If you are missing teeth and would like to discuss your restorative and cosmetic treatment options, please 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.

Fluoride Facts

Here at Greenville Family Dentistry, we can provide patients with fluoride treatments to help protect our patient’s pearly whites. Fluoride is commonly called nature’s cavity fighter and there’s a good reason for this. Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the entire tooth surface more resistant to acid attacks from the bacteria that live in the plaque on your teeth. Fluoride also promotes remineralization, which aids in repairing early decay before a cavity forms in the tooth. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry, we can provide patients with fluoride treatments to help protect those pearly whites.

Fluoride is found naturally in soil, water, foods, and several minerals. When present at the right level, fluoride in drinking water has two beneficial effects: preventing tooth decay and contributing to healthy bones. The type of fluoride we use here at Greenville Family Dentistry is called topical fluoride. Topical fluoride is applied directly to and absorbed by the surface of the teeth. It can be found in personal oral hygiene products such as toothpaste and mouth rinses, or may be applied as a foam or gel after a professional cleaning.

If you have further questions about fluoride treatment, don’t hesitate to 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.

Veneers for a Smile You Can Show Off

Are you tired of hiding your smile in pictures? Wedding season is just around the corner, which means the cameras will be out! At Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we are helping our patients achieve picture-perfect smiles with dental veneers!

Dental veneers are fantastic for improving the look of just about every cosmetic dental imperfection. Veneers can improve chips, cracks, gaps, misshapen teeth, discolored teeth, and more. With no major dental work, a beautiful, perfect smile could be a reality.

Veneers are porcelain shells that are bonded to existing teeth. Removal of a small amount of enamel is all that is needed to prepare. After the teeth are prepared, we take impressions of your teeth so that a dental laboratory can create the veneers completely custom. These custom veneers will look and fit naturally in your mouth. You will wear a temporary set of veneers while your custom set is being created. Veneers are stain resistant and durable, so your new smile will look great for a long time!

If you have a dental imperfection that stops you from showing off your smile, do not hesitate to find out if dental veneers are right for you! To schedule an appointment with Greenville Family Dentistry of Greenville, TX, call our office at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Kids' Dental Supplies

Kids dental supplies are important for kids for a couple of different reasons. One, they are designed to fit a kid’s mouth better and provide better cleaning. Two, they get kids more excited about brushing and flossing. Here at Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, we want all of our pediatric patients to learn about taking care of their teeth. Read on to learn about kids dental supplies and why they can be a big help!

Kids are not so easy to get into a good dental care routine. However, with cool toothbrushes that have their favorite cartoons on them or fruity-tasting toothpaste, they may be more inclined. There are tons of toothbrushes that have bright colors, cartoon characters, and even timers on them. Many toothbrushes, both manual and electric, play music that times your child. This helps kids brush for a full two minutes. In addition, you can let them pick out a fun-flavored toothpaste. Fruity flavors and bubblegum seem to be favorites. There is even flavored floss.

While the aesthetics of kids’ dental supplies may be important for getting them excited about dental care, the kids’ sizes are important, too. A toothbrush that is too big can miss areas of the mouth or be too hard for a child to control. Smaller ones help them reach every area of the mouth.

A home dental care routine is just as important as your regular dental cleanings. To schedule your child’s cleaning with Greenville Family Dentistry in Greenville, TX, call our office at (903) 455-6701 or visit our website, www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com. 

Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Having cracked tooth syndrome does not mean that you are accident prone when it comes to chipping or cracking your teeth. Although accidents happen, cracked tooth syndrome occurs when a tooth has a crack that is too small to show up on X-rays or is under the gum and challenging to identify. If you grind our clench your teeth you can increase your risk of cracked tooth syndrome. This is why it is important to talk to Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry about oral health issues if you have any and visit our office regularly for dental checkups.

Many people with cracked tooth syndrome have symptoms for months because it’s one of the most difficult dental problems to diagnose. To diagnose a cracked tooth, Dr. Christopher Emuedue will complete a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth, focusing on the tooth in question. How long pain symptoms last, depend on the location, direction, and extent of the crack and so does treatment.

If you experience pain upon biting or chewing, 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.

Types of Teeth and Their Functions

It is our job at Greenville Family Dentistry to take care of your teeth and educate you as to why every single one of them is important. The numbers of teeth us humans have varies by age, however, we all have the same types of teeth. If you’ve ever wondered what these types of teeth are and the purpose they serve in your mouth, allow us to inform you.

The types of teeth and their functions are:

• Incisors – located at the front of the mouth, these teeth have a sharp biting surface and are used for cutting or shearing food into small chewable pieces.


• Canines – located at the ‘corners’ of the dental arches, these teeth have a sharp pointed biting surface. Their function is to grip and tear food.


• Premolars – Unlike incisors and canines, these teeth have a flat biting surface. Their function is to tear and crush food.


• Molars – The molars are the largest teeth in the mouth and they too have a large flat biting surface. The function of these is perhaps the strongest of all as they chew, crush, and grind food.

If you have further questions about your pearly whites, 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.

Don’t Brush Your Teeth Too Hard

Brushing your teeth regularly is considered vital for healthy teeth and gums. However, if you’ve ever heard the expression that “too much of a good thing can be bad for you,” the same rule applies here. Known as “toothbrush abrasion,” over brushing can lead to sensitive teeth and receding gums. It’s important to use the proper brushing technique that our staff at Greenville Family Dentistry has taught you in the past, but it’s also important to use the proper tools.

The people who are most at risk for tooth or gum damage from over brushing are those who are particularly diligent about their oral care and those who use medium or hard-bristled toothbrushes. Toothbrush abrasion causes V-shaped notches in the lower third of the teeth near the gum line. Dr. Christopher Emuedue can examine your teeth to see if you have tooth abrasion or erosion. Once the cause of erosion or abrasion is determined and stopped, the process usually ends.

If you have further questions regarding your oral hygiene routine, 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.

Dental Bonding

Patients in Greenville, TX with cracks or gaps in their teeth are turning to dental bonding to restore their smile. Dr. Christopher Emuedue of Greenville Family Dentistry has become the go-to local dentist for bonding procedures. Unlike veneers, which are manufactured in a laboratory and require a customized mold, bonding can be done in a single visit.

Dental bonding is not just used to repair teeth that are cracked or damaged, it is also used to repair decayed teeth, improve discoloration of teeth and even change the shape of teeth. The procedure for dental bonding is non-invasive and quite simple. Patients are not required to be sedated for the procedure. Dr. Emuedue will utilize a shade guide in the beginning to match the resin color to the natural color of your teeth so it looks perfectly natural.

After selecting the proper shade, Dr. Emuedue will begin the bonding process. It begins with abrading or roughening the surface of the tooth. The tooth will then be coated lightly with a conditioning liquid. This liquid will help the bonding material adhere to the tooth. Once the tooth is prepared, Dr. Emuedue will simply apply the tooth-colored putty and mold it to the proper shape and size. The material is then hardened with an ultraviolet light. The final step is polishing the area to give you a fresh, vibrant smile. The bonding process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour. When it comes to maintenance, bonded teeth should be treated just as your regular teeth. They can be stained by tea, coffee and cigarettes just as normal teeth so regular brushing and flossing is highly recommended.

If you are interested in this affordable, effective dental procedure, set up an appointment with Dr. Christopher Emuedue by calling (903) 455-6701. For more information on dental bonding or any other procedures at Greenville Family Dentistry, visit www.greenvillefamilydentistrytx.com.

Diet and Dental Health

To prevent cavities and maintain good oral health, your diet – what you eat and how often you eat are important factors. Changes in your mouth start the minute you eat certain foods. This is why it’s important to make sure that you are eating the right ones. Dr. Christopher Emuedue may not be able to monitor your diet, but he can tell you how yours affects your dental health and what foods to eat to keep those teeth healthy.

Bacteria in the mouth convert sugars and carbohydrates from the foods you eat to acids, and it’s these acids that begin to attack the enamel on teeth, starting the decay process. The more often you eat and snack, the more frequently you are exposing your teeth to the cycle of decay. The best food choices for the health of your mouth include cheeses, chicken or other meats, nuts, and milk. These foods are thought to protect tooth enamel by providing the calcium and phosphorus needed to remineralize teeth.  Other food choices include firm/crunchy fruits and vegetables. These foods have a high water content, which dilutes the effects of sugars they contain, and stimulate saliva flow that helps wash away harmful acids.

For more information about the services we provide at the 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.

Smoking and Your Oral Health

Mark Twain once said, “Quitting smoking is easy. I’ve done it a thousand times.” It’s not easy, but if you’re a smoker, you’ve seen the warning on cigarette packages that advise against quitting because it reduces serious risks to your health. Sure enough, studies have found that tobacco use may be one of the biggest risk factors in the development of periodontal disease. At Greenville Family Dentistry, we can’t force you to put the pack down, but we can tell you how smoking affects your oral health.

Smoking and other tobacco products can lead to gum disease by affecting the attachment of bone and soft tissue to your teeth. More specifically, it appears that smoking interferes with the normal function of gum tissue cells. This interference makes smokers more susceptible to infections and seems to impair blood flow to the gums which can affect wound healing. Tobacco’s greatest threat to your oral health in addition to periodontal disease is its association with oral cancer. Quitting is the only way to decrease your risk of tobacco-related health problems.

For more information about the services we provide at the 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.

Taking Care of Baby Teeth

Daily dental cleaning should start as soon as your infant’s first tooth appears. However, to help prevent the buildup of plaque bacteria that can lead to decay, Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry recommends regularly cleaning your newborn’s gums with a damp washcloth following feedings. The possibility of tooth decay is directly related to the number of times that sweet things, like formula, are in contact with the teeth. To help prevent it, do not put your child to bed with a bottle of formula or a sugary drink.

Many parents think baby teeth aren’t important because they’re eventually replaced with permanent ones. However, these first teeth preserve the spacing for the permanent ones and help your baby chew and talk. If not cared for properly they can decay, leading to a gum infection called gingivitis, which can affect the spacing of permanent teeth. As soon as teeth erupt, you can start using a bit of toothpaste about the size of a grain of rice. You can increase this to a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste when your child is three-years-old. Brush gently all around your child’s baby teeth using a soft brush. You should brush your baby’s teeth until he or she is old enough to hold the toothbrush themselves.

If your child is old enough for a dental exam, please give us a call. For more information about pediatric services in addition to other services we provide at the 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.

Dangers of Dental Plaque

Plaque develops when foods containing carbohydrates (sugars and starches), are frequently left on the teeth. Bacteria that live in the mouth thrive on these foods, producing acids as a result. Over a period of time, these acids destroy tooth enamel, resulting in tooth decay. This is why it’s important to schedule regular dental checkups twice a year with Dr. Christopher Emuedue at Greenville Family Dentistry, to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

When left untreated, plaque buildup leads to gum disease. The first sign of gum disease is gingivitis and you’ll know you have it when you spot blood in the sink after brushing your teeth. Gum disease has been linked to conditions such as diabetes, dementia, as well as cardiovascular disease. We want you to stay as healthy as possible, so to keep plaque under control, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. In addition, use an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce the amount of bacteria in your mouth.

If you are due for a dental checkup, please give us a call. For more information about oral health as well as the services we provide at the 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.