If you’ve never experienced acid reflux, consider yourself among the lucky ones. According to Yale Medicine, over 20% of people experience acid reflux. And it’s not a pleasant feeling—that feeling when your stomach’s content regurgitates its way back into your esophagus. Not only does it make you feel unwell, but it can leave a horrid taste in your mouth and a burning sensation in your throat and chest.  What many people don’t realize, however, is that acid reflux isn’t good for your teeth, either. In fact, that acid can erode your tooth enamel, leaving you more susceptible to tooth decay ..read more

Did you know? Most adults start off with 32 teeth, but here’s the scoop—four of them, the wisdom teeth, might stir up trouble if they linger too long. Enter wisdom tooth extraction, a common dental procedure. Understanding why and when it’s needed is key. Join us at Monroe Family Dentistry as we unravel the why, when, and what to expect of wisdom tooth extraction for a painless journey to dental well-being. Why is wisdom tooth extraction necessary? While not all wisdom teeth need extraction, problems like impaction, crowding, and infection can signal their impending eviction. Although pulling ..read more

Choosing the right dental solution is a big decision for your comfort and well-being. If you’re exploring options for replacing missing teeth, you’ve likely come across traditional dentures and overdentures with implants. Making an informed decision tailored to your needs is essential.  Let’s briefly compare the two: Traditional dentures involve tooth removal, temporary dentures, and nightly removal. On the other hand, implant overdentures attach securely to implants in your jaw, offering stability without sacrificing comfort. What’s the best option for you? Understanding your tooth repla ..read more

Finding experiences that you can share with your partner is an important part of supporting a strong and lasting relationship. One way that you can spend quality time together that you might not have thought of is couples’ tooth whitening. This unique experience could be an excellent activity to take on together to enjoy brighter smiles. The benefits of couples’ tooth whitening. Couples’ tooth whitening is much more than just another cosmetic dentistry treatment. You can join your partner in a shared experience toward improved self-confidence, delivering a variety of benefits for your smile, m ..read more

Take control of your TMJ disorder. Jaw pain is a common issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Often, the culprit behind this nagging discomfort is a condition known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. This disorder affects the joint that connects your jaw to the temporal bones of your skull, which are located in front of each ear. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, roughly 11.5 million people in the United States alone suffer from TMJ disorders. This jaw pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, disrupting your daily life and ma ..read more

Start your year off right with nutrition ideas to help maintain a healthier smile! New year, new you! With the new year just around the corner, you may be thinking about New Year’s resolutions. Some resolutions can be hard to maintain, but if you are looking for a goal to help keep you healthy, look at ways you can change your nutrition habits to help keep your smile happy and healthy. The staff at Monroe Family Dentistry wants to ensure their patients in Greenville, South Carolina and the surrounding area are making the best (and informed) choices about their oral health. Start Off Small Chan ..read more

How to put an end to cavities. Picture this: you’re enjoying your favorite ice cream, and suddenly you feel a sharp pain in your tooth. You wince, hoping it’s a one time thing, but deep down, you know it’s more than that. You’re dealing with the dreaded issue of tooth decay, something that affects a whopping 90% of adults in the US at some point in their lives. But here’s the kicker—tooth decay is a highly preventable dental problem. All it takes to put a stop to tooth decay is understanding the causes and implementing a solid cavity prevention strategy. It’s far from rocket science, and it’s ..read more

The lowdown on xerostomia. Dealing with chronic dry mouth may seem like just an annoyance, but did you know it can lead to serious oral health issues, such as tooth decay and gum disease? That’s right! Suffering from a parched mouth is not just uncomfortable; it can be harmful to your overall dental health and well-being. Chronic dry mouth, or xerostomia, can be triggered by various factors, like certain medications, aging, cancer therapy, nerve damage, and conditions, such as diabetes or autoimmune diseases, like Sjögren’s syndrome. Even lifestyle habits like smoking or excessive caffeine int ..read more

A healthy and beautiful smile is more than just a confidence booster—it can be the key to preserving your youth and well-being. When you feel good about yourself, you naturally smile more, and there’s science to back it up. Studies show that those who smile often live longer, healthier, and happier lives.  This article will explore how dental crowns can enhance your smile’s beauty and oral health. What are dental crowns? Dental crowns are like little superheroes for your teeth, ready to save the day by rejuvenating your smile. These tooth-shaped covers play a critical role in restoring te ..read more

Understanding the connection between sleep apnea and depression is crucial for the well-being of millions. In the US approximately 30 million people struggle with this condition, yet only a fraction—just 6 million—have received a formal diagnosis.  This article will explore the hidden ties between these two conditions, illustrating the struggle many face every night as they sleep and the daily aftermath. What is sleep apnea? Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by frequent interruptions in breathing during slumber. Individuals with this condition often exhibit symptoms ..read more