4 Reasons To Make Sure Your Child Sees A Dentist

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, General Dentistry

Berkley family dentist

Did you know that The American Dental Association recommends that a child’s first visit to a dentist should occur around twelve months of age?

For many parents in the Birmingham, Berkley, and Madison Heights areas, this may come as a surprise. Today in the Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry post, we are going to review 4 reasons why your toddler’s teeth are worth a dental visit.

1. Twelve months of age happens to be about the time when a toddler’s first teeth tend erupt. Once those teeth are out, it’s time to get them looked at by a professional.

2. One of the important things your dentist will do at this visit will be to clean those young teeth and apply fluoride.

3. Visiting the dentist at a young age is a great way to help your child get used to the dentist’s office. This will help them to be more comfortable with the dentist as they grow older.

4. Visiting the dentist also helps parents enlist the help of other adults in developing good dental habits in their children. Starting early dental visits will mean that later in life your child is less likely to require braces or other dentistry procedures such as dental implants.

If your child is apprehensive about visiting the dentist, you might want to bring them for a short tour of our office beforehand. They can meet our friendly staff and learn what to expect when they come in for their exam.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we offer:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
orthodontics

Thanks for visiting our blog!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 4848

Mini Implants May Be Right For You

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

How Mini Dental Implants Can Help Your Smile in 48067 I’m Steven Gustafson of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak. Today’s topic is mini dental implants, sometimes called “immediate implants”.

Though they are not as well known as traditional dental implants, mini implants are also being used successfully in the Royal Oak area to improve smiles. Like their larger diameter counterparts, mini implants can support a restoration for one or more missing teeth or replace a bridge or fixed denture. Denture wearers benefit dramatically from these slip-free dental implants that are anchored securely in the jaw bone.

In some cases, a patient is unable to receive traditional full-size dental implants due to insufficient bone thickness. There are also mini-implant patients who are not able to undergo dental implant surgery due to health issues. These patients are often excellent candidates for the mini version.

The placement of toothpick-size mini dental implants can sometimes be done in one dental visit. The placement usually requires no incisions or stitches. Recovery time, if required, is often very short. Most patients are able to eat dinner that evening.

Don’t let the word “mini” fool you; your smile can receive a maximum upgrade with mini dental implants. Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry at 248-541-8770 to schedule a consultation.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 1015

The 411 on TMJ

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

TMJ dentist Royal Oak

Do you have unexplained pain or clicking sounds in your jaw? They can be signs of serious oral issues.

Some problems with the jaw and the muscles that control it are known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD). But it’s also also called TMJ, because that’s the acronym for the name of the joint. Technically, that’s not correct.

“Temp-or-o-man-di-what?!

Let’s talk about what this means. The word temporomandibular (pronounced ‘temp-ur-o-man-di-bye-ler) is defined as ‘of, relating to, being, or affecting the joint that connects the temporal bone and the mandible.’

(We are not betting people, but if we were, we would bet that you did not foresee an anatomy lesson from your dentist.) The temporal bones are found at the sides and base of your skull and incorporate five parts, the squama, the petrous, mastoid, the tympanic parts, and the styloid process. The mandible is the lower jaw, and, anatomically speaking, holds your whole face together.

What are the signs of TMD?

If you have jaw problems, either due to an accident, arthritis, misalignment of teeth or jaw, teeth grinding and clenching, poor posture, or chewing gum, you may experience:

  • tooth grinding or clicking 
  • jaw pain
  • earaches
  • popping sounds in your ears
  • headaches
  • stiff or sore jaw muscles
  • locking of the jaw joint
  • pain in the temple area

Quite often, TMJ symptoms will go away on their own. Some individuals who suffer from TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress.

TMD is an often misdiagnosed condition because facial pain can result from a variety of dilemmas, not just damage to the temporomandibular joints. Sinus infections, tooth decay, and facial injuries can cause jaw pain. A correct diagnosis is the first step in treating TMD.

If your TMD symptoms don’t go away on their own, seek professional help. Chronic TMD can be debilitating and your dentist can help. Dentists that treat TMD work closely with a network of specialists including ENT specialists, neurologists, and physical therapists. Talk to a healthcare professional.

 

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8334

3 Vital Reasons to Floss Regularly

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

reasons to floss your teeth

Are you an avid flosser? Many of us occasionally skip this needed habit. Studies show that around 68% of men and women report flossing at least once a week while 20% say they actually never floss. Skipping the daily flossing routine can have devastating consequences on your overall dental health and result in costly dental work in the future. Find out more about 3 major ways flossing helps protect us from gingivitis, cavities and enhances our social lives. 

1. Helps Fight Cavities

Every time we eat, small remnants of food are left behind. It’s common for these tiny bits of food to accumulate in between our teeth without us always being aware. When we floss, it cleans away all these bits of food and helps reduce the amount of plaque buildup on our teeth.

If we’re not flossing regularly, more and more plaque will form and put us at risk of developing cavities. When plaque begins to cover our teeth, the enamel is slowly worn down and can result in a tiny hole which we call a cavity. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends flossing at least once per day to prevent this growth of plaque.

2. Prevents Gum Disease

Gum disease is a serious dental issue and can leave you with fewer teeth if not properly taken care of in a timely manner. There are four stages to gum disease and the first signs usually show up as blood in your gums after flossing or brushing. Anytime we’re flossing and notice this, we can take it as a sign we’re not flossing sufficiently. The bleeding in our gums creates an accumulation of plaque and tartar along the gumline.

Flossing is a great way to clear away this plaque from our teeth. With a piece of floss, we can reach areas a toothbrush can’t reach. If we avoid flossing for long bouts, more and more tartar can accumulate and become harder to get rid of, so our gums bleed. Plaque and tartar allow certain bacteria to accrue and seep in between our gums, damaging our teeth in the process.

3. Freshens Your Breath

Have you ever wondered why your breath is stale at times? This could be due to a lack of flossing, even if you brush regularly. When you brush your teeth, you remove small amounts of saliva, food, and a variety of fluids from your teeth. If you don’t brush routinely, everything sticks to your teeth and results in foul-smelling breath. The same thing can happen when we start reducing the amount of time we spend flossing. Since the food is collecting at a slower rate, we may not notice our breath turning sour. Eventually, this will lead to covering our mouths during conversation.

Conclusion

Even if flossing is the most challenging part of your oral health regimen, refusing to floss is not worth the risk. Removing the bacteria in between your teeth regularly is crucial to your dental health and will keep your breath smelling fresh.

Flossing and brushing are the best preventative measures to avoid gum disease. Remember to have twice-yearly professional dental cleanings as well. If you’re not currently flossing, it’s best to start sooner rather than later. Unexpected cavities can be costly to treat and damaging to your health.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8550

We Keep Dental Patients Comfortable

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

Keeping Dental Patients Comfortable in Royal Oak

To state the obvious, nobody enjoys pain. Dr. Gustafson knows this, and that is why the dental team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has made patient comfort our number one goal.

In conjunction with creating a soothing environment, we have various medications that can lower and even eliminate pain associated with different dental procedures to give you a more enjoyable experience.

Some of the most common pain-relieving medications used in Detroit dentist offices and around the country are topical anesthetics. These are swabbed directly onto mouth tissue and numb the surface layers. Topical anesthetics can limit the pain of mouth sores, or they can be applied to prepare the mouth for an injection.

Local anesthetics are injected into mouth tissue (usually the gums) to block the nerve sensations in distinct areas of the mouth. Dentists usually numb the mouth in this way before filling cavities, treating gum disease, or performing cosmetic dentistry procedures.

More involved dental procedures may necessitate nitrous oxide or even general anesthesia. Ask us about sleep dentistry and oral conscious sedation.

Dentists often recommend an OTC analgesic to relieve pain after a dental visit. These medications include aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen.

Because your dentist will probably administer a pain reliever during the dental visit or prescribe something for you to take after the procedure, make sure you bring a complete list of medications you are taking, including herbal supplements, before each appointment.

I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson and I want patients to be informed about their dental care, especially as it pertains to pain relief during dental treatment. If you are in the Royal Oak area and looking for quality dental care, I invite you to contact my office today at 248-541-8770.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 3542

Raise Your Dental IQ

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, General Dentistry

Raise Your Dental IQ

Small things can raise your Dental IQ and benefit your smile. One simple lesson involves bacteria, and everyone’s mouth has a lot of it.

But, don’t worry, bacteria per se isn’t the problem. It’s the balance of bacteria that’s important. This is where brushing and flossing come into play. Brush and floss properly each day and you will have a better chance of keeping the appropriate balance.

Another precaution you can take to guard against the wrong kind of bacteria is to keep your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible. Also, close the lid of the toilet before you flush.

Make sure to wash your hands before you brush and floss. No exceptions!

When it comes to a good toothbrush, don’t get sentimental. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. If you can avoid the unhealthy balance of bacteria in your mouth, you can avoid gum disease, tooth decay, as well as bad breath.

If you have sensitive teeth, don’t rinse your mouth out after you brush your teeth at night. The fluoride in the toothpaste can help remineralize your enamel. If you go to bed with some toothpaste left on your teeth, it has a chance to go to work.

If you can avoid decay, it’s less likely that you will need more extensive dental work such as dental implants and crowns.

Dr. Steven Gustafson is passionate about helping patients maintain healthy teeth and beautiful smiles. If you would like to know more about our services, give us a call at 248-541-8770.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 4529

It’s Not About Vanity

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Categories: Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Madison Heights cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Since 1984, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has been providing confidence and dignity to our amazing Detroit and Royal Oak patients through cosmetic dentistry and teeth cleaning.

Many Royal Oak people seem to have it all together with bright eyes and great smiles. We want you to be on the same footing as your friends, colleagues and customers. Wanting to look your best and feel your best is not about VANITY, it’s about reality in the Detroit professional community. A sensational smile creates a favorable first impression and demonstrates polish and attention to detail. These are advantages for Royal Oak people in every field of work.

Popular ways to achieve such a worthy goal might be found in the services we offer at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak. We offer cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and dentures as ways to improve your confidence and security. Don’t hesitate to ask us about teeth whitening, veneers, sedation, dental implants or any other questions that might be gnawing at you. We’ve got the answers and Dr. Steven Gustafson can set you up with a dental treatment plan that will make your jaw drop!

No matter your age, 20 to 70 – no matter your location from Birmingham to Berkley to Madison Heights – we invite you to see our friendly staff and take the step toward that impressive smile you deserve.

A phone call away at: 248-541-8770. Book a consultation today!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 5680

The Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Guide To Teeth Whitening

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Teeth whitening

teeth whitening Royal Oak

So you want to whiten your teeth? It’s a cost-effective way to upgrade your smile, look younger, and feel more confident when you interact with people in business or social settings.

Here are 5 things Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry recommends when it comes to teeth whitening:

  1. Meet with your dentist for a consultation first. There are several different teeth whitening systems and a consultation will help you identify which technique is best for you.
  2. It is critical to know that whitening does not affect existing fillings, veneers, or crowns.
  3. During your consultation, decide how many shades lighter you want your teeth to be at the end of the treatment. Depending on the whitening protocol chosen, your teeth can be brightened three to eight shades. An in-office procedure achieves a degree of lightening that cannot be achieved with an OTC product. During your treatment, your dentist may apply a coating to protect your gums and roots while the bleaching agent is applied.
  4. An alternative protocol is to have your dentist customize a take-home kit for you. Make sure you follow the instructions exactly. First, molds are made from your upper and lower arch. Then the lab creates trays to hold the bleach. While this protocol may take longer, it is more economical and more convenient for many patients. Teeth whitening results from either method can last from six months to two years.
  5. With any of the teeth whitening systems, tooth sensitivity may occur. In most cases, it won’t last for more than a day or so. Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry if it lasts longer.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers general, restorative, and cosmetic dental services including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, dentures, and orthodontics. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, quality care and a comfortable patient experience are our top priorities.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7314

Super Smiles Have Strong Enamel

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Categories: Dental Implants, Teeth whitening, Veneers

Royal Oak dental financing

Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance in the body? It’s true! This substance, found on the outer surface of your teeth, truly should last a lifetime. But just because it’s super substantial doesn’t mean you don’t have to work to take care of it.

Here are some helpful tips for keeping enamel healthy.

1. Pick the right foods for enamel health. It’s no secret that soft drinks damage your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are also other culinary culprits that can do a lot of harm. Sticky, chewy candies should be avoided. Chewing ice is a no-no. And don’t use your teeth as tools. Take a minute to grab some scissors before you rip open that package with your incisors.

On the flip side, foods with calcium can neutralize acid in your mouth and protect your enamel. So, enjoy your dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt!

2. Avoid vigorous brushing and use a soft brush. Also, it’s best to brush about an hour after eating, because foods, especially acidic ones, can soften the enamel, thus making it more prone to damage from brushing. If your teeth are discolored or yellowish, you may feel you need to brush harder. Instead, consider teeth whitening and communicate with your dentist.

3. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, the stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so it is critical to speak with your Royal Oak doctor about treatment.

4. Talk to your dentist about dry mouth and tooth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major dilemma for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can also wear it down. Make sure your dentist is aware if you notice either of these issues.

Hi, my name is Dr. Steven Gustafson. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible, and enamel health is an essential component. I also love helping my patients achieve the remarkable smile they want with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental bonding, veneers, invisible braces, tooth-colored fillings, and dental implants.

My practice, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, is currently accepting new patients. Give us a call at 248-541-8770 to make an appointment!

The following website was used as source material for this blog:
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-2/tooth-enamel-damage, accessed on September 18, 2013

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7132

Why a Root Canal Is Not Something To Fear

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

root canal sedation Royal Oak

Today’s Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry post addresses one of the most feared dental procedures: the infamous root canal.

If you are told that you need a root canal, don’t panic. Your dentist recommends this procedure when it is better for your tooth than the alternatives.

A successful root canal (or endodontic treatment in dental-speak) can save a tooth and prevent the need for an extraction followed by a dental bridge, dental implant, or gap in your smile.

If, after a thorough evaluation, we determine that a tooth needs a root canal, Dr. Gustafson will explain the procedure and costs that are involved.

Root canals are performed to save an infected tooth. If not treated, abscesses and complete tooth loss may occur.

During the procedure, Gustafson will remove the nerve and pulp, and then clean and disinfect the interior of your tooth (the canal). The next step is filling and sealing the cleaned area with a special rubbery material, and then protecting the restored tooth with a crown or filling.

Root canals have a reputation for being painful, but this is not the case anymore. There are several effective pain management methods available today at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. We will make sure you are comfortable during the procedure. Once the infected tissue is removed, we will focus on helping the area heal.

If you are unfamiliar with our services at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, be sure to visit our website at https://gmdentistry.com to get more specifics.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7119