Hiccups In Your Dental Routine

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Dental cleanings in Detroit, MI.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we know the most common times people brush their teeth are morning and night – either before or after breakfast, after dinner, or at bedtime. Common concerns that come with this routine involve hiccups in the schedule, from family life, to shift work or exhaustion.

Sometimes after dinner isn’t super cut and dried. Many Detroit families face irregular weeknight routines. As the school year progresses, some have games to attend, band concerts, play practice, youth groups, or other weeknight commitments. An irregular schedule generally disrupts regular dental maintenance.

Many Madison Heights workers have daily commutes or shift work to battle with. Due to the changing landscape of Royal Oak’s job market and the greater variety of shift schedules, we see patients who are adjusting to irregularities in sleep patterns. This leads to exhaustion and often sleep takes priority over consistent brushing – either morning or night.

The most important time to be sure to brush is after eating sugar or carb-intensive foods. These foods kickstart bacteria growth on the teeth without vigilant attention.

Highly acidic foods weaken the enamel, so it is best to swish with water immediately after consuming acidic foods to reduce the acid. Then brush about 30 minutes later when the mouth is less acidic. The fluoride in toothpaste helps remineralize the enamel.

Dr. Steven Gustafson’s hygiene staff at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has been assisting Michigan families since 1984 to prevent hiccups in their dental routines.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry provides more than just cosmetic dentistry or teeth cleaning. In addition to dentures, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics there is hygiene education, teeth whitening, and cleanings to be discussed. Sure, the cost of cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers, Invisalign braces, and dental bridges can all seem confusing. The key is to stay on top of the critical habits that you can control. We can help you make sense of the other stuff.

Regular checkups are critical for catching decay, infection, or other problems early so let us make an appointment for your next preventative visit and keep those hiccups from causing permanent damage. Call us at 248-541-8770  to schedule!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6829

How Tooth Brushing Prevents Gum Disease

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

Treat gum disease early in Royal Oak, MI.At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we like to give our patients guidance on proper oral hygiene. But why should everyone brush at least twice a day? Let’s explore why this is crucial.

Brushing and flossing are the best ways to prevent decay.

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste and carefully flossing removes the food from our teeth and restricts the build-up of plaque.

If we let food stay on our teeth, the starches in the food will combine with the plaque. This nasty mixture forms an acid that immediately starts drilling into the enamel to form cavities. Brushing can’t get all the spaces between your teeth, so you’ve got to floss also.

Brushing and flossing keeps gums and bones healthy.

If you let gum disease go untreated, you can lose teeth that are cavity-free!

The progression of gum disease (gingivitis) goes like this:

  1. Plaque build-up irritates gums.
  2. Irritated gums pull back from the tooth.
  3. Bacteria multiply in the spaces between the gum and tooth.
  4. The bone holding the tooth is eaten by the bacteria.
  5. Say goodbye to the tooth.

The good news is that gingivitis can be reversed if caught early.

Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry to schedule a gum disease evaluation at our office in Royal Oak.

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 2251

Does Your Dentist Conjure Up Cavities?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Prevent cavities in Royal Oak.

Cavities can be filled, but it is better to prevent cavities in the first place. If your dentist seems to conjure up cavities at every visit, then it’s up to you to break the cycle. But we are here to help you. Let’s work together.

How can you lift the cavity curse? Schedule a preventative dental consultation and examination at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry by calling 248-541-8770. You will be served by several members of our friendly team. One of our experienced dental hygienists will give your teeth and gums the best cleaning they have ever received. He or she will review proper oral hygiene and discuss ways to incorporate these critical habits into your lifestyle.

Steven Gustafson DDS will perform a thorough examination and discuss your dental conditions and goals. We welcome questions about brushing, flossing, diet, medical issues, and lifestyle choices. These are all factors that affect your dental health.

Here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, as much as we love to see our patients, we would prefer they all enjoy healthy smiles and only have to visit a couple of times a year for cleanings and checkups. Use preventative dental visits to improve your oral care techniques and break the cavity curse.

Steven Gustafson DDS is an experienced dental professional who promotes preventative dentistry. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak was launched in 1984 to provide the residents of Royal Oak, Birmingham, Madison Heights, and Berkley with the highest standard of personalized dental care.
Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers a comprehensive menu of dental services including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, dentures, and orthodontics.


We look forward to working with you to break the cavity curse.

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6412

Mastering the Art of Oral Hygiene: Your Gateway to a Healthy Smile with Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

Mastering the Art of Oral Hygiene: Your Gateway to a Healthy Smile with Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

A healthy smile is not only a reflection of good dental care but also a gateway to overall well-being.

The foundation of a radiant smile begins with proper oral hygiene practices. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak, we believe that prevention is key to maintaining optimal oral health. In this article, we will explore the importance of oral hygiene and share valuable tips to help you achieve a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime.

Why Oral Hygiene Matters

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping your teeth, gums, and mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria and plaque buildup. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to various dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath, which, if left untreated, can have a significant impact on your overall health.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is dedicated to educating our patients about the vital role of oral hygiene in preventing dental problems and enhancing overall well-being. Our team of dental professionals is committed to providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.

The Building Blocks of Effective Oral Hygiene

Brushing Twice a Day: Regular brushing is the cornerstone of good oral hygiene. It is essential to brush your teeth twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Brush for at least two minutes, covering all surfaces of your teeth and your tongue to remove bacteria and plaque effectively.

Flossing Daily: Flossing complements brushing by reaching areas between teeth and along the gumline that a toothbrush cannot reach. Make flossing a daily habit to remove food particles and plaque from these hard-to-reach spaces.

Use Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash can further reduce bacteria in your mouth, promoting healthier gums and fresher breath. Consult our team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry for recommendations on the most suitable mouthwash for your needs.

Adopt a Balanced Diet: A balanced diet not only supports your overall health but also benefits your oral health. Limit sugary and acidic foods and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay. Instead, opt for nutrient-rich foods that promote strong teeth and gums.

Attend Regular Dental Check-ups: Regular dental check-ups are crucial for maintaining good oral health. Our team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry will conduct thorough examinations and dental cleanings, and provide valuable guidance on improving your oral hygiene routine.

The Role of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Your Oral Health Journey

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we are passionate about helping our patients achieve and maintain excellent oral health. Our dental team is equipped with the knowledge, expertise, and state-of-the-art technology to provide comprehensive dental care and personalized oral hygiene guidance. Whether you need professional cleanings, dental check-ups, or advice on home care practices, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Effective oral hygiene is the key to preserving the health and beauty of your smile.

With Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry as your partner in dental care, you can embark on a journey to better oral health and overall well-being. Remember, a healthy smile is a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Embrace the art of oral hygiene, and let Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry be your trusted companion on this rewarding path to a radiant smile. Book your appointment today and experience the difference of exceptional dental care at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8708

What Can Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Do For You?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Get comprehensive dental care in Royal Oak, MI.

Hello, and welcome to the Detroit dental health blog. My name is Dr. Steven Gustafson and I want to tell you about our Royal Oak practice, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

Meet Our Compassionate Team of Dental Professionals

The first thing to know is that we work hard to keep our patients comfortable. Our team is compassionate and empathetic. For some men and women, the condition of their teeth is a sensitive subject.

We get it. If you have dental issues–whether it’s decay, gum disease, or discolored teeth–we want to treat these problems and get you back on track when it comes to a healthy smile.

We Respect Your Time

Our team is here to serve you. We know you have many choices in Royal Oak-area dental practices. If you place your trust in us, we will do all we can to make your wait as short as possible. We will work with you to schedule appointments at your convenience.

We Are a Full-Service General and Cosmetic Dental Practice

We provide general and cosmetic dentistry to patients in our Royal Oak office. We serve the entire Detroit area including Birmingham, Berkley, and Madison Heights. Even if you live a bit further away, we promise you that it’s worth the trip.

Our most popular services are:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics
general dentistry

Interested in Upgrading Your Smile?

Along with healthy teeth, many of our Birmingham and Berkley patients want to know more about popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. These include teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, gum contouring, and more!

A combination of cosmetic dental treatments can remedy every problem to achieve your remarkable smile!

If you live in the Detroit area and would like to see what Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has to offer, give us a call at 248-541-8770. We are currently accepting new dental patients!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6201

Happy Teeth Don’t Just Happen

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry

Your Michigan Dentist And Cleaning Your Teeth!At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we know keeping your teeth clean is a critical factor in maintaining a beautiful smile. One of the advantages of visiting your dentist typically is receiving thorough teeth cleanings and a review of your brushing practices.

Your Partner in Oral Health

Our dental hygienist can professionally clean and polish your teeth at your twice-yearly dental check-up. The hygienist also helps you keep your teeth clean by assessing the condition of your teeth and recommending improvements to your daily teeth-cleaning habits.

Having a professional dental cleaning is the only way to eliminate plaque (a sticky substance in which bacteria thrive) and tartar (a calcium deposit that forms on teeth and contributes to cavities).

Don’t Forget Basic Dental Hygiene

Brushing and flossing at least twice each day can keep plaque and tartar from accumulating on your teeth and results in cleaner, healthier teeth.

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist at least once every 6 months for a dental checkup and dental cleaning.

To keep that beautiful smile in top condition, come in for a dental check-up and teeth cleaning. Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry to make an appointment.- Dr. Steven Gustafson

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 343

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Near Detroit Can Help You Avoid Pain

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Near Detroit Can Help You Avoid Pain.

Tooth pain, often described as one of the most agonizing experiences, can stem from various causes, from the mundane to the serious.

Understanding the root of tooth pain and seeking professional care is paramount to maintaining a pain-free smile. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Detroit, we’re committed to helping you prevent and alleviate tooth pain, ensuring that your smile shines as brilliantly as a radiant orange sunrise.

The Culprits Behind Tooth Pain

  • Tooth Decay: Cavities, the most common cause of tooth pain, occur when acids from bacteria in your mouth eat away at the enamel, creating tiny holes that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
  • Gum Disease: As the gums become inflamed and recede due to infection or poor oral hygiene, the roots of your teeth can become exposed, leading to pain and sensitivity.
  • Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A broken or cracked tooth can cause excruciating pain, especially when chewing or exposing it to extreme temperatures.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can result from exposed dentin, a layer beneath the enamel, due to gum recession or enamel erosion. It can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages.
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted, leading to severe pain and potential infection.

Preventing Tooth Pain through Dental Visits

Regular dental visits at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Detroit are a crucial step in avoiding tooth pain. Here’s how professional care can help:

  • Early Detection: Routine check-ups can identify dental issues in their early stages, preventing them from becoming painful problems.
  • Professional Cleanings: Our dental team can remove plaque and tartar buildup, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Education: We provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and offer tips to protect your teeth from sensitivity and pain.
  • Treatment Options: If tooth pain is already an issue, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers a range of treatments to alleviate pain and restore your oral health.

How Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Can Help You

Our team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is committed to providing compassionate and expert dental care. We understand that tooth pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your quality of life. By choosing us, you’re making the proactive choice to maintain a pain-free smile.

Tooth pain can be disruptive, but it’s not something you have to endure alone. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Detroit, we are your partners in preventing and alleviating tooth pain.

Don’t let your smile be overshadowed by discomfort. Schedule a visit with us today, and together, we can ensure that your teeth remain pain-free and brilliantly beautiful.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8713

Want to Fill Those Gaps in Your Smile?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Tooth replacement options in Royal Oak.

Do you have gaps in your smile? At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we know many Royal Oak adults are missing one or more teeth. You probably already know that missing teeth detract from an attractive smile. You may be self-conscious about your smile. Do you cover your mouth when you laugh? Perhaps you keep your mouth closed when someone takes a picture of you.

You Don’t Have to Live With Missing Teeth

That’s no way to live. We provide multiple ways to maintain (or regain) your ability to eat, drink, speak, laugh, and smile in selfies.

We help hundreds of patients restore missing teeth. If you are interested in tooth restoration (actually, total smile restoration), we invite you to schedule a consultation.

Your consultation will include a treatment plan to restore missing teeth, an outline of the cost of required procedures, and a schedule for completing the services.

Dr. Steven Gustafson creates stunning smiles

If you have missing teeth, Dr. Steven Gustafson has solutions.

Since 1984, Dr. Gustafson has built a dental practice based on expertise, experience, and a patient-focused philosophy of care.

There have never been as many options for tooth restoration.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is used where a tooth is missing. Aptly named, it “bridges” a gap between teeth. It is a restoration with a false tooth (or teeth) attached to the surrounding teeth. Dental bridges have been used with success for generations of people who have lost teeth.

A Tooth Implant Replaces the Root Also

An implant consists of an artificial tooth PLUS an artificial root (usually biocompatible titanium). A dental implant is a more extensive replacement for a missing tooth.

With local anesthesia, your dentist anchors the artificial root into the jawbone. In the following months, it integrates and meshes with the jaw bone tissue.

There are three components of a dental implant: the artificial root or post, the connecting abutment, and the final crown or denture. An implant is often the optimal restoration as it offers beauty, strength, and natural function. In addition, it offers something many patients don’t realize is important: protection from bone recession that often takes place at the site of a missing tooth.

Traditional and Implant Supported Dentures

Most people have heard of dentures: plates holding artificial teeth that can be removed by the wearer. These are custom and can contain varying numbers of teeth. Sometimes the entire set of upper and lower teeth have to be extracted and a custome denture created. Modern dentistry offers a myriad of custom dental implant-denture combinations to restore missing teeth.

Dental Veneers

If you still have your teeth but are not comfortable with them, a dental veneer might be a great solution that preserves the healthy tooth structure. Beautiful porcelain veneers can remedy uneven color, oddly sized, or slightly misshapen teeth.

A veneer is a thin shell that your dentist bonds to the front of the teeth. In other words, a dental veneer can enhance unsightly, but structurally sound teeth.

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8679

Retaining Brightness After Teeth Whitening Treatment

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, General Dentistry, Teeth whitening

Learn about professional tooth whitening treatments at Royal Oak.

If you decide to brighten your smile with a professional teeth whitening treatment, you want the results to last as long as possible. Unfortunately, the same things that stained your teeth prior to the treatment can stain them after the treatment. Over time, common staining will take place. To help slow down that process, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers useful recommendations to make your beautiful smile last.

Do’s

First, rinse daily with an anti-cavity rinse. This boosts oral hygiene, curtails bacteria, slows the growth of plaque and also helps whiten your teeth. Additionally, there are many over-the-counter rinses with an additional whitening agent which will help prolong the results of the teeth whitening procedure.

Don’ts

There are some daily practices to abstain from because they will stain your teeth over time. These include drinking coffee, tea, soft drinks, red wine, smoking, and even some medications. If you cannot entirely cut these out of your life, rinse your mouth out after you use them.

Avoid acidic foods and beverages. These can weaken or wear away the enamel on your teeth, and eroded enamel allows the yellow dentin to show through.

Artificial coloring in any foods and condiments can stain your newly whitened teeth. Candy, popsicles, and fruit punch are examples.

Remember the Basics

We probably don’t need to remind you, but brushing your teeth effectively a couple times a day will help you keep your white smile. You may choose a toothpaste with extra whitening or baking soda to help the process. Proper brushing should take you at least two minutes using short brush strokes, paying close attention to the gum line and hard-to-reach areas. Clean the outer surfaces of your upper, then lower teeth, as well as the inner surfaces. Finally, don’t forget the chewing surfaces and your tongue. Using good brushing techniques for 120 seconds will support oral hygiene, and permanent stains will not build up as fast.

It doesn’t take too much effort or money to make your whitened smile last. If you have any questions or would like additional tips on how to retain your fresh, white smile, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7507

The Rate of Bone Loss After Extraction Can Be Slowed or Stopped With an Implant

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Categories: General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

Alveolar bone loss after tooth extraction treated by Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

The Alveolar Bone

The bone surrounding the teeth is called the alveolar bone. Its main job is to support the teeth and provide a heavy-duty foundation for tooth roots. Normal mouth function maintains bone health. As you chew, it stimulates bone cells to consistently create new bone. Alveolar bone loss, a common dental condition, refers to the gradual deterioration of the bone surrounding teeth, often resulting from periodontal disease or tooth loss. This loss of bone density can lead to complications such as loose teeth and compromised jaw structure. Seeking prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further deterioration and maintain oral health. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers advanced diagnostic techniques and effective treatments to address alveolar bone loss, ensuring patients regain both the function and aesthetics of their smile.

What can cause alveolar bone loss?

Extraction

When a tooth is removed, the bone at the extraction site is no longer needed.

It’s not just that the root is gone, the forces of chewing no longer stimulate the bone at that site. First, the bone gets narrower. Then it gets shorter.

Studies have shown that a considerable amount of alveolar bone loss can occur within six weeks after an extraction.

Periodontal disease

Gum disease is not just a problem with the soft tissues. The infection caused by gingivitis (gum disease) can destroy the alveolar bone. Advanced periodontal disease can result in the loss of teeth. The rate of bone loss caused by periodontal disease may be accelerated when the tooth roots are gone.

What if I can’t get an implant immediately after a tooth extraction?

If you plan to get a tooth implant after having a tooth extracted, it’s best to do it as soon as your implant dentist recommends. Bone diminishes quickly.

Some implant dentists use socket preservation grafts. With this service, your dentist fills the extraction socket with bone grafting material. The grafting material should start integrating with the surrounding bone. This won’t halt all bone loss, but it may slow it down.

Dentures don’t preserve the alveolar bone

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 25% of adults over 65 have no original teeth. Many people with missing teeth or no teeth at all choose dentures. This is understandable. It’s challenging to eat and speak with no teeth in the mouth. And nobody wants a toothless mouth.

It’s important to understand, however, that dentures don’t replace the roots of the missing teeth and they don’t preserve the alveolar bone. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that helps preserve jawbone structure.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8267