Want to Fill Those Gaps in Your Smile?

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

 

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Chipped Tooth? No Need To Panic

How your dentist can repair a chipped tooth.

There are basically two ways to handle a chipped tooth:
1. Panic.
2. See Dr. Steven Gustafson right away and get on with life.

Dr. Steven Gustafson at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can fix a chipped tooth in a jiffy by determining the right solution and expertly performing the procedure. Decay, missing teeth, braces, and even crowns can impact the course of treatment.

Time is often an important factor when it comes to tooth repair so don’t wait, call 248-541-8770 to schedule an appointment. Our address is:
940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan 48067

We’ve been around since 1984 – serving your neighbors in Royal Oak and improving smiles for Birmingham patients.

When Royal Oak residents need cosmetic dentistry, we’ve successfully managed their treatment. When Madison Heights patients have needed teeth cleaning, we’ve watched happy, smiling patients leave our office. And when you need Invisalign clear braces, we are pleased with the opportunity to make a true believer out of you!

We offer dentures, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics. Trust Dr. Gustafson to deliver exceptional results. No panic. No mistakes. No worries.

Relax.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Gap-Tooth Smiles Aren’t Quite As Adorable Anymore

dental implant cost Berkley

Have you lost teeth? It’s a lot different than when you lost your baby teeth way back in the day. Unfortunately, these don’t grow back. (And a gap-toothed smile doesn’t look as cute as it did when you were in kindergarten.)

If you have had teeth extracted or if your teeth are compromised by staining, decay, chipping, or brittle aging, then it’s time to visit with Dr. Steven Gustafson at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

Since 1984, Dr. Gustafson has built a practice teeming with experience, filled with kindness, flowing with a gentle touch, and carrying all the wisdom of experienced professionals.

When it comes to the prospect of losing your adult teeth, the preference is always to save your natural teeth. If this is not feasible, we offer several ways to maintain your ability to eat, drink, speak, laugh, and smile in selfies.

Dental Veneers

If you still have your teeth but are not satisfied with them, these might be your solution. Stunning porcelain veneers offer a reasonably-priced approach to cosmetic adjustments—uneven color, size, or shape. These are very thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth. They improve unsightly, but structurally sound teeth.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is used where a tooth is missing. 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 successfully for decades.

Dental Implant

A dental implant is a more extensive replacement for a missing tooth. An implant consists of an artificial tooth PLUS an artificial root (usually biocompatible titanium). With local anesthesia, the artificial root is actually inserted into the jaw bone where it integrates with the bone tissue. There are three parts to a dental implant: the artificial root, the connecting abutment, and the final crown or denture. An implant is often the proper restoration as it offers beauty, strength, natural function, and protection from bone recession that often transpires at the site of a missing tooth.

Dentures

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

Don’t worry about losing your grip on the adult teeth you’ve been enjoying all these years. We have experience and training in many critical services to meet your dental needs including dentures, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and dental implants.

Schedule your initial consultation at 248-541-8770 to visit us at 940 E 11 Mile Rd in Royal Oak, Michigan. We are perfectly situated for our neighbors throughout the Detroit area.

Your consultation will include a customized treatment plan for restoring teeth, an outline of the cost of desired care and a schedule for completing the work. Come with questions and leave with answers.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Provides Quality, Compassionate Dental Care

take out silver fillings Berkley

Hello, and welcome to our dental blog. My name is Dr. Steven Gustafson and I want to tell you about 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 individuals, the condition of their teeth is a sensitive subject.

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

Relieving Dental Anxiety is Our Specialty

As mentioned, we understand that some men and women are sensitive about the condition of their teeth so they are reluctant to seek care. Other individuals are hesitant to seek care because dental treatment is downright scary for them.

If you fear dental treatment, give us a try. We have helped hundreds of uneasy men and women get through their service successfully. Let’s talk about sleep dentistry options.

We Honor Your Trust

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 honor that trust. This includes making your wait time as short as possible and your visit as comfortable as possible. In addition, we will work with you to schedule appointments at your convenience. Furthermore, we are sure our skills and experience will ensure successful outcomes.

We Are a Full-Service General and Cosmetic Dental Practice

We serve you with general and cosmetic dentistry to patients in our Royal Oak office. We serve the greater 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

 

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Get Those Teeth In Shape!

Royal Oakaffordable cosmetic dentistry

Dental bonding is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures used and it’s not difficult to see why. There are many common dental problems that dentists can treat with bonding.

Bonding uses a very sturdy resin material that is tooth-colored. The material is applied to the teeth while it is soft, much like putty, and then it is set with a special light. This hardens the material which then bonds with the tooth and can be shaped and polished as required.

Dentists will typically consider dental bonding in the following cases:

1. To repair teeth that are damaged due to an injury or decay

2. To fill spaces between teeth

3. To protect tooth roots that are exposed due to gum recession

4. To change the general shape of teeth

5. To repair discoloration as part of a complete smile transformation

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers dental bonding along with the following services:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics

We invite you to schedule an appointment today.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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7 Ways To Fix A Chipped Tooth

fix broken tooth Royal Oak

In a perfect world, each of your cherished teeth would stay healthy, strong, and brilliantly white throughout your life. The truth is, however, that most Michigan men and women will need to restore a tooth at some point.

A tooth can be compromised by tooth decay, enamel erosion, a chip or crack, gum disease, or injury. Sometimes old restorations break and need to be replaced or root canals performed decades ago develop an abscess.

Here are 7 different options for repairing a damaged tooth:

Dental Bonding
Bonding, officially called direct composite veneers, is used to fix minor cosmetic issues – small chips, cracks, discoloration, and spaces between teeth. A skilled cosmetic dentist applies moldable tooth-colored composite resin and shapes as desired. The resin is then cured with a special light to harden and adhere tightly to the tooth. Composite bonding is typically the most affordable option for improving healthy teeth with minor cosmetic issues.

Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin tooth-shaped fronts that are permanently bonded to your natural teeth. They are used when the underlying tooth is structurally sound and free of cavities. A beautiful veneer can cover a chip or crack or correct the alignment of a tooth that appears slightly off-kilter as compared to surrounding teeth.

Fillings
Modern white fillings are strong and inconspicuous. A minimally invasive filling at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry leaves you with more of nature’s optimal dental material — your own enamel and dentin. We can also replace old amalgam fillings with white fillings. This makes your teeth look a lot better every time you open your mouth. Get rid of all that metal!

Inlays and Onlays
A traditional filling is shaped and molded after it is applied to the tooth. Because inlays and onlays are constructed in a dental lab, they are frequently called indirect fillings. A less invasive inlay or onlay may be used instead of a traditional filling or, in some cases, a crown. Inlays are applied to just the center of the biting surface of a tooth (not to a cusp or point) and are typically smaller than onlays. An onlay restores one or more cusps of a tooth.

Crowns
A crown replaces the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring appearance, durability, and function. A crown is typically necessary for a tooth that has had a root canal, a tooth with acute decay, or as the replacement tooth in a dental bridge. Attaching a crown to the abutment is the final step of a tooth implant procedure. Crowns can be made of all metal (such as gold), porcelain-fused-to-metal, all ceramic, or all resin.

Soft Tissue Grafts
Gum recession puts teeth and underlying bones at risk. Soft tissue grafting can cover the exposed root of a tooth to prohibit further damage. Gum surgery is also performed for cosmetic reasons such as reshaping a gumline to eliminate a “gummy” smile.

Dental Implants
What if a tooth has to be extracted because it is beyond saving? For many Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry patients, a dental implant anchored into the bone is the proper solution. A tooth implant consists of a strong metal post (artificial root), abutment (connecting piece), and beautiful crown. A dental implant has many advantages over a dental bridge. They are stronger, provide virtually natural function, restrict bone recession, and do not impact the surrounding teeth. For patients with numerous missing teeth, individually-constructed implant-anchored dentures can be created in any configuration needed.

For more specifics about any of these procedures, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry at 248-541-8770. Thanks for visiting the Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry blog. We appreciate your interest in our Royal Oak dental practice.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Treats Canker Sores, Lesions, And Fever Blisters

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Treats Cankers Sores Lesions and Fever Blisters

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, one of the most common complaints we hear from Royal Oak dentistry patients is problems with mouth sores.

There are many different kinds of oral lesions which can make eating and talking painful. Some are annoying yet harmless, while other sores are more serious and require medical intervention.

Though not contagious, the most common complaint is canker sores, which affect an estimated eighty percent of the Birmingham population. Canker sores can be attributed to stress, tissue irritation, or acidic foods.

Dr. Steven Gustafson can prescribe a topical dental paste to relieve pain and guard against infection. Recurring canker sores can sometimes be a symptom of a larger health problem.

Another common complaint is fever blisters or cold sores, which are contagious fluid-filled blisters. Detroit cold sore sufferers should be aware that they can become infected. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we advise our patients on how to treat cold sores and avoid further breakouts.

Fungal infections and oral cancer can cause sores in the mouth and throat. See your Detroit dentist if you experience any of the following:

Lumps or discolored patches in the mouth lasting longer than three weeks
Unusually large lesions
Multiple sores

Dr. Steven Gustafson reminds patients that eating a well balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and not smoking can all aid in oral health and hygiene.

To schedule an appointment, or ask about other oral concerns, contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry today at 248-541-8770.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak  provides the full spectrum of general, cosmetic, and pediatric dental services. We offer cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, dentures, orthodontics, general dentistry and complete smile makeovers.

The following online articles were used as source material for this blog:
‘Mouth Sores,’ American Academy of Otolaryngology, December 2010, http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/mouthSores.cfm, accessed on November 29, 2011
‘Dental Health and Canker Sores,’ WebMD, November 2011, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/canker-sores, accessed on November 29, 2011

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Cosmetic Dental Artistry

Royal Oak Cosmetic Dental Artistry Royal Oak cosmetic dentistry is part science and part art.

I’m Steven Gustafson of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry and enjoy using my extensive dental training and artistic skills to design treatment plans unique to each of my Royal Oak cosmetic dental patients.

In order to achieve an attractive, yet natural-looking result, I do much more than recommend specific procedures. I consider the shape, alignment, color, and condition of the teeth. In order to create a balanced look, the facial shape and coloring is taken into account. The Detroit dentistry patient’s age, health condition, and lifestyle all influence the plan.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan.

My artistic abilities have been perfected over several years of creating smile transformations for my Birmingham and Berkley cosmetic dentistry patients. Even fairly recent cosmetic dental procedures such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers have advanced considerably. Dental implants are a truly remarkable solution for our Michigan dental patients who have lost one or more teeth.

I would love to perform a personalized smile makeover for you. When the work has been completed and you are enjoying your new look, it will only be obvious to those who see you all the time. Others will assume you have always been blessed with a naturally beautiful and healthy smile.

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 731

3 Tips To Make Brushing Count

Madison Heights affordable family dentist

Many of Dr. Steven Gustafson’s patients walk in for cosmetic dentistry, teeth cleaning, or Invisalign clear braces. Many for routine checkups and cleanings. And most really want to know if they are brushing effectively. Having patients come for treatment and leave with questions answered—from which toothpaste to buy to proper tools and techniques—is our business. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we are all about educating our patients. Sometimes life is as easy as 1-2-3.

1 Soft Bristle Toothbrush

Gentle brushing will achieve the same results as hard bristle brushing without abrasive damage to gums and gum lines. There is never a good reason to use hard or medium bristle toothbrushes. Better yet, wet the soft bristle toothbrush to be sure the bristles are flexible before brushing.

2 Minutes of Brushing and Flossing

Split the mouth into fourths and spend a good 30 seconds in each quarter. Hit the chewing surfaces, the inside surfaces, and the outside surfaces, and gently massage the gums. Be sure to reach the far side of the back tooth that is never visible but can collect food and allow tooth decay to begin. Take two minutes to floss after brushing in the evening to remove any remnants the toothbrush couldn’t coax out and to clean any build-up. You have approximately 32 teeth and 32 gaps to floss clean. Two minutes should do the trick, but adding an extra minute for good measure can’t hurt.

3 Times a Day

Brushing after every meal should remain the goal. This is difficult for many who are not home for the midday meal. To achieve amazing dental hygiene, brushing is a priority. There are as many toothpaste choices out there as you have teeth; without consistent brushing and flossing, those teeth are facing sure destruction. Don’t misunderstand, toothpaste is vital. Toothpaste acts as the vehicle that collects the debris, keeps the bristles pliable, fluoridates the mouth, freshens the breath, and does a myriad of other side jobs. But after every meal, gently removing food debris prevents breakdown on precious tooth surfaces. Even if you don’t use toothpaste after lunch, a quick brush can keep your teeth free of build-buildup

Here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we understand that nature has dealt with crooked teeth, sensitive teeth, and weak teeth for many patients. When you schedule an appointment to communicate with Dr. Gustafson, you will be advised on ways to correct your smile.

We provide our patients with the following services and many more: orthodontics, general dentistry, dental implants, dentures, and cosmetic dentistry.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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4 Reasons To Make Sure Your Child Sees A Dentist

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

 

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