Royalty At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

porcelain crown Royal Oak

When Dr. Steven Gustafson crowns one of our patients, the coronation is a celebration of a stronger smile.

The necessity of a dental crown is usually readily apparent. Based on how much tooth is available to hold in a filling, sometimes a crown is needed to add more support and to keep the tooth from falling apart or breaking. Crowns are also necessary as a sturdy support for dental bridges.

A crown restores your tooth to normal shape, size and strength, and allows it to resume its proper place as a team player with the other teeth.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, located at 940 E 11 Mile Rd in Royal Oak, Michigan 48067, opened their doors in 1984 and has been serving patients throughout Michigan with extraordinary efficiency, expertise and personal attention since 1984. You could be our next royal to smile and wave for the paparazzi.

Consult with Dr. Gustafson to find out if you are a candidate for innovative restorative procedures meant to increase the life of your precious permanent teeth such as a fabulous crown. Keep in mind that crowns come in a variety of strong, reliable materials. Matching the natural color of your teeth increases the beauty of your smile. Gold crowns are incredibly strong and have the “bling” factor. But there are certainly other options.

In addition to restorative services, we would love to meet with you about cleanings, cosmetic services, teeth whitening, braces, veneers, and other smile makeover possibilities.

We are equipped to offer general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, dental implants and a long list of other procedures. Schedule your visit today with our friendly staff at 248-541-8770.

A crown can return your tooth to all its former glory as a smiling, glowing, expert chewing machine.

 

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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Making The Cost Of Dental Treatment Palatable At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

cost of dental crowns DetroitA healthy smile is priceless and superior dental care is a worthwhile investment in your quality of life. But the cost for treatment and precision restorations can sometimes be prohibitive. Knowing what to expect price-wise can make your dental visit more palatable.

Obviously, the cost of some procedures such as crowns versus fillings is dependent upon unknown factors. X-rays can show the basic problem but sometimes the extent of the damage isn’t clear until we get in there. Our caring staff works to offer estimates based on best-case and worst-case scenarios.

Nailing down the cost is much easier once the overall treatment plan is established. Dr. Steven Gustafson performs an oral exam, reviews the patient’s dental history, and consults with the patient before creating an estimate. The price is influenced by the patient’s current condition, cosmetic goals, and long-term functionality.

Usually, the cost of treatments such as teeth whitening, dental implants, veneers, denture fittings, and the price of cosmetic dentistry can be explained at the initial consultation with Dr. Gustafson. We encourage our patients to take some time to review the options before they decide on which elective procedures to pursue. We never pressure our patients to make a quick decision about something as vital as dental treatment.

Here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we are dedicated to customized patient-focused care. Often the treatment plan will be extended over several visits to allow healing and adjustment in the mouth before doing more work.

With restorations, the most conservative treatment is always preferred. The cost is weighed with priority for adequate eating and speaking functionality. Personal confidence in appearance is also taken into account and given priority.

Dr. Gustafson has been practicing friendly dentistry since 1984. If you are in the market for orthodontics or dental implants but are worried about how much it will set you back or whether your insurance company covers the procedure, then call 248-541-8770 today and let us look into it for you.

Feel free to shop around and compare our economical prices to other dentists in the area – but be wary of bargain-basement dental advertisements. Many ads present a false picture of the actual cost of the treatment. And, do you really want to trust your smile to the lowest bidder?

Thank you 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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How Do Implant Dentures Work?

implant dentures Royal Oak

Many men and women know that a permanent tooth implant is an ideal tooth restoration. Some don’t realize, however, that two or more can support a partial or full denture. This can be a less expensive option than having numerous implants while still providing many improvements as compared to standard dentures.

Today’s article answers the most prevalent questions about implant dentures.

The first thing to know is that a fixed implant denture is called an “implant-supported” denture while a removable one is called an “implant-retained” denture.

What Are Implant Dentures?

Like conventional dentures, implant-supported dentures replace missing teeth. The difference is that they are attached to titanium posts which are surgically anchored into the jawbone.

Each post is called an implant. The implant fuses with the surrounding bone structure to create an incredibly durable restoration. These posts are similar to the implants that hold a crown, except instead of a crown, they have a clip that attaches to the denture, partial denture, or metal bar that holds the denture connectors. Implants can be used for both upper and lower dentures.

Bar-Retained and Ball-Retained Systems

There are two types of implant stabilization methods: bar-retained and ball-retained. For both, the denture is fabricated with gum-colored acrylic for the base to which porcelain (or acrylic) false teeth are attached. The denture necessitates, at a minimum, two implants for stabilization.

With the ball-retained system, each post holds an attachment (male or female) that fits into a corresponding attachment on the denture. These are sometimes called “stud attachment.”

With bar-retained dentures, a metal bar is anchored to two to five implants. The bar holds the clips that connect to the denture.

If you are currently wearing conventional dentures, take to us about superior options.

 

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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Multi-Procedure Dental Visits Save Time And Hassle

Multi-Procedure Dental Visits in Royal Oak

 

 

 

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is a full-service family and general dental practice. We can address any dental need including total smile makeovers. If you are considering a smile makeover, you may be wondering whether to do it all at once or one procedure at a time over an extended period. Here are some factors to consider:

Cost
In the long run, it is less expensive to do it all at once. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak, we are able to complete several procedures in one visit. We know that complete smile transformations are a significant investment for most Detroit residents. We would be happy to discuss affordable dentistry financing options. Call us at 248-541-8770 to schedule a no-pressure consultation.

Time
With the latest materials and cutting-edge dental techniques, healing is speedier than in the past. However, some procedures such as bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, root canals, and dental implants may require a healing period.

It is easier physically and psychologically to have the fewest possible visits to your Royal Oak dentist. You should also consider how your dental visits and needed healing periods will impact your employment and family life. You will have less downtime if you receive several procedures at once.

Aesthetic Results
While we routinely achieve great outcomes when doing a smile makeover in steps, multiple porcelain restorations are best fabricated in the same “batch” for the most precise color matching.

Sedation Dentistry
When you come in for a smile analysis, we can discuss oral sedation dentistry. Many dental patients benefit from this safe and effective solution for pain and anxiety management. Conscious sedation is especially beneficial for procedures such as multiple wisdom teeth extractions and dental implant placement.

 

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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Optimum Oral Health Includes Exams and Cleanings

oral health Royal Oak

If you’ve ever visited our blog, you’ve probably heard the guidance to have dental visits and cleanings twice a year. In fact, dental professionals have been advising the twice-yearly frequency for over 50 years. The American Dental Association counsels people to visit their dentist twice a year as well.

Is that an arbitrary schedule? Let’s explore the reasons why regular dental exams and cleanings are an essential part of preventative dentistry and optimum oral health.

What does your dentist and dental hygienist do during an exam and cleaning?

Look for Signs of Decay

Your dentist has tools that allow him/her to see places in your mouth that would be practically impossible for you to see. While a cavity usually takes over six months to become serious, your dentist can see the telltale white spots that reveal that a cavity is forming. In the earliest stages, your dentist can stop the progression of a cavity. If a cavity drills into your teeth without you knowing it, it will eventually hit the pulp–Ouch!–and you may need a root canal and a crown. As you might imagine, both are far more expensive than an exam and cleaning. Besides, your dental insurance may cover twice-yearly exams and cleanings at 100%.

Clean Out Your Pockets

If you think dental care is unnecessarily costly, you might not like this joke. We aren’t talking about your wallet here. We are talking about the gap that forms between your gums and tooth roots when bacteria and plaque buildup. It’s not only severe cavities that can damage a tooth until it is beyond saving. Gum disease that leads to bone loss is just as harmful. A buildup of plaque creates pockets of infection between the gums and tooth roots. This leads to periodontitis, gum recession, and eventual bone loss. A professional cleaning eliminates the plaque before it can cause the gums to loosen.

Check for Oral Cancer

The Oral Cancer Foundation reports this unfortunate stat: oral cancer claims one life every hour—that’s 48,250 deaths a year.1

Clean Plaque and Tartar

Even if you brush and floss your teeth morning and night, plaque can build up. We have many patients who are vigilant brushers but are surprised when our hygienist discovers plaque on their teeth.

Polish Your Teeth

When the hygienist polishes your teeth, it eliminates the bacteria that allow the plaque to form. If you have, your hygienist can smooth away uneven areas below the gum line where bacteria can flourish. Plus, it feels amazing when you run your tongue over polished teeth!

Oral Health is Physical Health

Your mouth is connected to the rest of the body, but many individuals treat it as a separate entity. Some get regular preventative services for physical conditions but fail to recognize their oral health.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we’ve often wondered about this common disconnect. Did you know that there is compelling evidence to suggest that the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes increases with poor oral health? Besides, your lifestyle is significantly impacted when you have tooth pain, tooth loss, gum disease, or dentures.

Even if you don’t have dental insurance, cleanings, and exams are one of the most affordable ways to maintain proper oral health.

Call 248-541-8770 today to schedule a dental exam and cleaning at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak.

1http://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8678

Avoid Bone Deterioration Following Extraction

Royal Oak Jaw Bone Deterioration Hello, friends of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry! In today’s post, we will discuss jaw bone health.

Those tooth roots are important!

To remain healthy and dense, your jawbone needs to be continually stimulated by the pressure of chewing, biting, and talking. Each tooth has a root structure the extends into the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth function, it stimulates blood flow in the bone surrounding the root.

Have you had a tooth extracted?

In some cases, tooth extraction is the only possible procedure for people with tooth damage beyond repair. However, we make every effort to retain the root structure. When a tooth is extracted, the jaw bone that surrounded the initial root structure begins to recede.

A dental implant replaces both the root and the crown of an extracted tooth

Fortunately, tooth implants provide a new, artificial root that helps to keep the surrounding bone healthy and strong. A dental implant is composed of a substantial titanium post that replaces the original root and eventually integrates into the surrounding bone.

After the implant has been placed and the surrounding bone has healed and integrated with the implant, a post is inserted into the implant. The new artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the post. Implant restoration is a safe and effective treatment for tooth loss.

Are dental implants a good option for you?

For more details about dental implants, call Dr. Steven Gustafson at 248-541-8770. The friendly team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry provides world-class dental treatment for patients in Royal Oak and the surrounding areas.

Feels Like Coming Home

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 693

Are There Drawbacks to Dental Implants?

tooth implants Detroit

  • Are dental implants too expensive?
  • Are dental implants unsafe?
  • Are dental implants experimental?
  • Is the surgery painful?
  • Does it take a long time to recover?

The answer to all of these is No.

Let’s talk about it.

Dental implants are an investment in a higher quality of life

Dental implants aren’t cheap. We understand that. But you get so much more than a titanium post and porcelain crown or denture.

You get the ability to chew steak and raw vegetables. You gain self-confidence. You preserve the shape of your face. You prevent your teeth from shifting after an extraction. You avoid embarrassing dentures slipping around in your mouth.

Dental implants are a safe, mainstream dental procedure

In healthy patients who are good candidates for the service, dental implants have a success rate of around 98%. They have been used for decades.

Are you thinking about getting a dental implant? At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we only recommend surgery for people who are good candidates. This helps us maintain a nearly 100% success rate.

According to the American Academy of Implant dentistry, 3 million Americans have received implants.

If you get a permanent dental implant this year, it could last the rest of your life.

Dental implant surgery has very little pain and patients usually recover rapidly

Our dental implant patients are generally surprised after they get their implant placed.

“Wow! That was no more painful than a filling.”

“Are you finished already? I didn’t even feel it.”

“That was oral surgery? It only took a few minutes.”

After dental implant surgery, you may experience:

  • Minimal pain at the implant site
  • Minimal bleeding
  • Swelling and/or bruising of the gums and cheeks

These effects should subside after a few days. Ibuprofen usually takes care of the pain. Ice packs used on the outside of the face can reduce swelling. Call our office if these symptoms persist.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we want to share accurate information about teeth implants. There are too many myths floating around. It’s unfortunate that incorrect information can prevent people with missing teeth from improving their lives with implants.

If you have questions about tooth implants, get your answers from an expert. Dr. Gustafson has been providing the highest quality dental service since 1984.

 

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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Aesthetic Dentistry Solves Difficult Oral Problems

solve tough dental problems Royal Oak

Have you ever been told that your smile is beyond repair? That may not be true. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we perform dental miracles every day. Here are some tough dental problems we routinely solve:

Tough Problem 1: Insufficient Bone for Dental Implant
Solution: Bone Grafting

As a replacement for a missing tooth, a dental implant has many benefits as compared to a dental bridge. However, there must be adequate bone to support the titanium post (screw) that is surgically implanted.

Many implant patients need some level of bone grafting and the procedure has a high success rate. Disinfected, processed donor bone is inserted at the implant site where the bone needs structural augmentation. The grafting material is in granular form that can be packed into the contours. It generates growth, and eventually, the patient’s newly-generated bone replaces the donor bone material.

If you have had another dentist tell you that you don’t have enough bone to place an implant post, talk to Dr. Gustafson. The team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has performed many bone grafting procedures for dental implant placement.

Tough Problem 2: Severe Tooth Loss
Solution: Full Mouth Restoration

If it feels like your dental dilemmas are beyond repair because you have few or no teeth left, take heart. Regardless of the cause—chemotherapy, recreational drug use, eating disorder, extreme mouth injury, disability, inadequate oral hygiene, or simply poor overall health—there is hope.

Full mouth reconstruction can restore your previously healthy, pleasing smile or give you the beautiful smile you never had. Patients who have full mouth restoration regain their confidence to smile, eat, and speak normally.

Full mouth restoration is composed of a combination of dental procedures as necessary according to the patient’s particular situation. These can include dental implants, implant-supported bridges, orthodontia, crowns, inlays/onlays, dental bonding, gum contouring, soft tissue grafts, and teeth whitening.

By listening carefully, asking the right questions, communicating clearly, and counseling with you, Dr. Gustafson can fully analyze your seemingly impossible dental dilemma and furnish a solution. Call us 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 7516

Want Whiter Teeth?

Whiter Teeth for Royal Oak Teeth whitening has become very popular as an affordable, straightforward way to upgrade your smile with little effort and no pain.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can help you understand your options for teeth whitening and the improvements you may expect from various teeth whitening options.

Over the counter whitening systems can give varied effects, with many users not happy with over-the-counter teeth whitening products.

Your cosmetic dentist can help you whiten your teeth effectively and realize professional results. If you are ready to try a teeth whitening product, please give us a call at 248-541-8770 to schedule a teeth whitening consultation.

Our friendly staff would love to answer any questions you have about general, cosmetic, restorative, or pediatric dental treatment. Here are some of our services:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics
general dentistry

If you are searching for quality, friendly dental care in the Detroit area, call us here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. We are currently accepting new patients at our comfortable, state-of-the-art dental office. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we are committed to providing superior dental care to our valued patients.

 

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

 

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Dental Problem? There Is Always A Solution!

smile makeover cost Royal Oak

There is no doubt that a healthy, pleasing smile positively influences one’s life. It lets us convey confidence and friendliness in business and social settings. A beautiful healthy smile also impacts our personal relationships. When we smile, we appear (and feel!) younger and more attractive.

Research has shown that smiling also helps reduce stress, increase productivity, and express empathy.

But if you are troubled by dental problems, then you may feel insecure about your smile. A smile makeover is a solution to your issues.

When you visit Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, you will find Dr. Gustafson to be very empathetic about how you feel about your teeth. Together the two of you make a plan to help you gain the sensational smile that you have been missing in your life.

One question to consider before going in is: What changes do you want to see in your smile?

There is no need to feel helpless. There is always a solution. Straightening teeth, fixing chips, replacing missing teeth, re-shaping teeth, and bleaching teeth are only some of the changes that Dr. Gustafson can perform. If you have a problem, your dentist will help you find the solution.

If you are worried about the cost of a smile makeover, remember there is a way to make it happen. When you and your dentist decide on your cosmetic dental smile makeover plan, budgeting becomes part of it. Together, you will figure out how to complete your smile makeover in a timely, economical manner.

If you feel that a smile makeover can improve your life, book an appointment with Dr. Gustafson at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak by calling 248-541-8770. We will give you the brilliant smile that you can be proud of.

 

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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