An Interview with Dr. Chris Elueme, MD/CEO, Dental De Classique Clinic
Interviewer: Favour Oshiobugie
Guest: Dr. Chris Elueme
Favour Oshiobugie:
Good morning, Dr. Chris Elueme. Thank you for joining us today.
Dr. Chris Elueme:
Thank you very much. It’s a pleasure to be here.
THE BEGINNING OF A DREAM
Favour Oshiobugie:
You are the MD/CEO of Dental De Classique Clinic—a dream that has become a reality. At what age did you realize you wanted to become a dentist, and what was the journey like?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
I always wanted to study medicine, largely inspired by my uncle who was a medical student. He was eloquent, intelligent, and commanded admiration from my parents and others. His presence fascinated me, and I wanted to be like him.
When it came time for JAMB, I sought his advice. He told me I had to excel in Maths, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, and apply for medicine. Although I wanted to study at the University of Ibadan, my parents preferred the University of Benin where my uncle studied.
Interestingly, he suggested dentistry, assuring me I would still become a doctor. I agreed. Even though I didn’t meet the cut-off mark initially, I reapplied the following year, gained admission to UNIBEN, and eventually graduated as a certified dentist under the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council.
I’ve since fallen in love with the profession—helping patients in pain walk out smiling, restoring broken teeth, and giving people fresh breath. It’s truly been the grace of God.
ESSENTIAL DAILY ORAL CARE
Favour Oshiobugie:
What are the basic oral hygiene practices we need daily?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
First, brush twice a day using a good-quality toothbrush. The bristles should be straight, not flared. If the bristles flare, replace the brush—even if it hasn’t been three months.
Secondly, cultivate the habit of flossing. Many people don’t floss properly. It’s not just in-and-out—you must ensure the floss gently rubs against the sides of your teeth for effectiveness.
PREVENTING DENTAL PAIN
Favour Oshiobugie:
How can one avoid dental pain?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about avoiding candy entirely but when you eat it. Having candy after meals is okay, but not at night unless you brush immediately afterward.
Also, instead of chewing candies, suck on them. It reduces the quantity you consume and the damage to your teeth. Afterward, rinse and brush.
Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste, even for children with teeth—even as young as one year old. Fluoride strengthens teeth and prevents decay. But avoid it in toddlers without teeth.
ORAL CARE FOR THE ELDERLY
Favour Oshiobugie:
How should the elderly, especially those without teeth, care for their oral health?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
They should rinse their mouths thoroughly, clean their tongues, and maintain overall health. Conditions like diabetes can affect the oral cavity and lead to infections. Managing these conditions is key.
For those using dentures, they must understand proper usage and avoid using them for things like cracking bones. Denture adhesives are helpful, but care and caution are essential.
ORAL CARE FOR CHILDREN
Favour Oshiobugie:
Should children use mouthwash or warm salt water?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
If children maintain good oral hygiene—brushing, flossing, scrubbing their tongues, and staying hydrated—mouthwash isn’t necessary.
However, if there are signs of gum bleeding, a warm salt water rinse helps. A teaspoon of salt in half a glass of warm water before bed is effective. For school, parents can put saline solution in a flask and instruct their kids to rinse after meals.
GUM INFLAMMATION & ITS CAUSES
Favour Oshiobugie:
What causes gum inflammation?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
It’s caused by plaque bacteria. While most mouth bacteria are harmless (commensal), their byproducts—mainly acidic—can harm the gums when bacterial populations grow unchecked.
WHEN TO USE BRACES OR CROWNS
Favour Oshiobugie:
At what point should crowns or braces be considered?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
You need to visit a dentist for assessment. At Dental De Classique, we conduct detailed consultations—listening, performing visual and X-ray exams, and running necessary tests.
After diagnosis, we recommend treatment options tailored to the patient’s needs and budget. Informed decision-making is key—we ensure patients understand the “why” behind every recommendation.
IMPLANTS & COST CONSIDERATIONS
Favour Oshiobugie:
How expensive are your implants and dentures?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
We don’t discuss prices over the phone. We first need to evaluate the patient. Conditions like poor oral hygiene, uncontrolled diabetes, or allergies to metals can affect implant success.
That’s why consultation is crucial—to determine eligibility and tailor treatment accordingly.
VENEERS & OTHER DENTAL SERVICES
Favour Oshiobugie:
Do you offer veneers at Dental De Classique?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
Yes, we offer veneers and a wide range of dental services—from pediatric to geriatric care. We handle surgeries, except for major ones which we refer to appropriate hospitals.
WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Favour Oshiobugie:
You manage a private clinic and work at a government hospital. How do you balance both?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
It’s purely by the grace of God, coupled with support from my wife and team. Our clients’ positive reviews on Google also inspire us to keep delivering exceptional care.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Favour Oshiobugie:
What’s your mantra?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
I’m grateful to God for the patients who trust and appreciate our services.
Favour Oshiobugie:
What would you say is your pathway to success?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
God’s grace, self-discipline, continuous training, and guidance from mentors.
Favour Oshiobugie:
Finally, what advice do you have for aspiring dentists?
Dr. Chris Elueme:
Trust in God, believe in yourself, be open to learning, and love the profession. Passion is critical—without it, you’ll struggle regardless of how hard you try.
Favour Oshiobugie:
Thank you so much, Dr. Chris Elueme. God bless you.
