Dental Implants

3 Tips To Make Brushing Count

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Teeth whitening

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

 

ArticleID 6902

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

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

Are Dentures the Only Answer for Extensive Tooth Loss?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

total mouth reconstruction Royal Oak

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we restore smiles for patients with severe tooth loss.

What is total mouth reconstruction?

Modern restorative dentistry makes total mouth reconstruction a reality! Total mouth reconstruction restores all the teeth with dental implants and/or implant-anchored dentures.

What are dental implants?

  • Dental implants are strong, functional, and naturally-looking restorations
  • Dental implants replace the tooth root with a titanium post permanently anchored into the jaw bone
  • Dental implants can be used to provide a framework for bridges and anchored dentures

What are implant-anchored dentures?

Dental implants create a sturdy foundation for either a permanent or removable overdenture (dental appliance).

Total mouth reconstruction: a case study

“David” was a 54-year-old patient with severe tooth loss. This was the result of a lifetime of dental problems.

A lifetime of dental problems

David was injured in an automobile crash in his early twenties. Several teeth were damaged and had to be removed.

He got a dental bridge to fill the gap. It was difficult to clean under the bridge. The adjacent teeth eventually decayed and also had to be extracted.

Dentures weren’t ideal

This left David with few teeth left. These teeth developed severe decay.

He was in so much pain, he decided to have the remaining teeth removed so he could wear dentures.

His dentures never fit well and created painful sores on his gums.

He visited Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry for a consultation

Finally, he decided to look into a better tooth replacement. He visited us at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry for a dental implant consultation.

He explained the problems with his dentures:

  1. His dentures masked the taste of food
  2. He avoided social events because they slipped around in his mouth
  3. They caused painful mouth sores

Dr. Gustafson created a treatment plan for total mouth restoration with dental implants.

The treatment consisted of eight tooth implants. Four implants were placed on each arch, upper and lower.

Implant dentists use 3D digital imaging to determine where to place the implants. They have to account for bone, nerves and–in the upper arch–the sinuses.

Two custom removable overdentures were created, one for the upper and one for the lower arch.

Step 1: Placing the implants

David had the implant posts placed in February of 2020. The procedure only took a few hours. He felt minimal discomfort when the implants were screwed in. The gums are sewn in place over the implants so they are not exposed during the healing period.

In many cases (including this one), the implant dentist recommends an interim period for the osseointegration (fusing) to occur.

During this period, David wore temporary dentures specially designed not to place pressure at the implant sites.

Step 2: Creating custom dentures

Dr. Gustafson used 3D digital imaging to design two removable appliances (overdentures) to attach to the implants.

Step 3: Exposing the implants and placing the attachments

In August of 2020, Dr. Gustafson attached the abutments (connecting pieces) to the posts. Two custom dentures had been fabricated previously. Each appliance had corresponding hardware to securely attach to the implants.

David wears the dentures during the day. He takes them out at night and cleans them.

Step 4: He got his youthful smile back!

David couldn’t believe how beautiful his smile looked when it was finished. He was amazed at how the implant-anchored dentures worked just like natural teeth.

He said “I have my twenty-year-old smile again.”

David received a dazzling new smile and renewed confidence.

This case is representative of many of our patients who have many missing teeth.

Whether you are missing two teeth or twenty, give us a call to talk about total mouth restoration.

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8230

Smile Like You Mean It!

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

Hey Royal Oak Smile Like You Mean It!

Hello Royal Oak friends! Have you ever noticed someone who refuses to flash a genuine smile? Even in a family picture, they stay tight-lipped. Even if they’re laughing at the funniest joke ever, they cover their mouths. Maybe this person is you and maybe you need a smile makeover.

Don’t be embarrassed! Here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we provide the most advanced cosmetic dentistry services for our Detroit area patients.

There are many reasons a dental patient could be shy about their smiles, such as injury, tooth discoloration, or poor spacing.

You might even have gaps in your smile. Rest assured that there is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that can help.

Wouldn’t it be fantastic to have the confident smile you’ve always wanted?

Many patients start with teeth whitening. Other procedures include dental implants, veneers, crowns, enamel shaping, bonding, and more! We can also refer you to an orthodontist if necessary.

Dr. Steven Gustafson is passionate about helping individuals have healthy teeth and dazzling smiles.

If you would like to know more about smile redesigns, give us a call at 248-541-8770 and our friendly staff can schedule an appointment.

Call today to get a smile you’ll never want to hide!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 4384

Is It All About Flashy Smiles And Trendy Styles?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

cost of dental crowns Detroit

It’s All About Location

If you can’t be in Paris, then bring fashion home to Royal Oak. Facial fashion, that is. The pouty, the flashy, the sultry, the glamorous, the gleeful. Our professional dental team is dedicated to keeping you looking great and feeling confident. We offer a wide variety of dental services for our Royal Oak area locals—dentures, general dentistry, and cosmetic dentistry. You name it, we’ll explain it—orthodontics, dental implants.

It’s All About Working The Smile

For just about everyone out there, the way we look is critical to our self-concept. Our self-esteem influences our interactions and relationships, and perhaps even our success. Let us work with you to strengthen that smile and bring it up to your standards. Our own Dr. Steven Gustafson can discuss broken teeth, crooked teeth, and even missing teeth. Come down and see us. We will help you to work that smile on the proverbial runway of life.

It’s All About Being Uniquely You

Our single most singular feature is our welcoming and friendly staff. Right? So amazing. Be assured that your smile is in good hands. A dental restoration or smile transformation will set you apart. Be uniquely you.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

ArticleID 5538

Patient Education Is A Priority At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Teeth whitening

Berkley family dentist

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we are to educating patients.

We know that optimal dental health depends on good habits, so we want you to have all the information you need to practice those habits.

We make sure our patients understand all the details of their treatment. We also explain how to care for your teeth post-procedure.

In addition to having healthy teeth and gums, we want our dental patients to have the beautiful smile they deserve. We work to make patients aware of the numerous cosmetic dental procedures that can improve smiles dramatically. Procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers are simple but can have amazing results.

If you are in the Royal Oak area and are looking for a highly skilled dentist with superior communication skills, give us a call at 248-541-8770. We can answer any questions you have about services such as dental implants or complete smile makeovers. Our services include:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 4724