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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Regular Cleanings And Heart Health

Royal Oak Dental News Regular Cleanings And Heart Health

Visiting Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak for twice-yearly dental checkups and cleanings can seem inconvenient and unnecessary at times. But you may benefit in ways you never imagined.

A recent study showed that men and women who had their teeth professionally cleaned at least once every two years were 24 percent less likely to have a heart attack, compared to those who skipped appointments.

While the study could simply confirm that people who faithfully schedule regular dental cleanings also practice healthy habits like exercising and eating right, there is additional evidence of a relationship between oral health and heart health.

Common oral conditions like inflammation resulting from gum disease are linked to hardening of the arteries and other tissue inflammations which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

Former American Heart Association President Ralph Sacco, MD, (who did not participate in the study cited previously) said:

“Something as simple as having good dental hygiene – brushing, flossing, and having regular cleanings – may be good for your heart and brain health.1

While the study found that patients who schedule cleanings yearly glean the most health benefits, Dr. Gustafson of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry recommends coming in for checkups and cleanings every six months to catch potential dilemmas early, saving patients time and money. Regular dental cleanings also brighten and whiten teeth, making your smile look its best.

To schedule a deep cleaning with our friendly dental hygienist at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, call
248-541-8770 today!

1 ‘Getting Your Teeth Cleaned May Help Your Heart,’ WebMD Health News, November 16, 2011, http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/news/20111116/getting-your-teeth-cleaned-may-help-your-heart, 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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What’s New In Dentistry?

Advanced Dentistry in Royal Oak The world of dentistry continues to advance at a rapid pace. If you have visited your Royal Oak dentist lately, you have probably noticed some things that make your visit more comfortable, such as the ability to watch TV or listen to music while receiving treatment. Many Detroit dentistry patients welcome oral conscious sedation to reduce or eliminate pain.

What may not be as obvious are the advances in techniques, tools, and materials. Top Royal Oak dentists now use digital computer imaging which is safer than traditional x-rays. Dental technicians can store, retrieve, and transmit digital images much more easily than was possible with traditional X-ray film.

The use of lasers has also changed the face of dentistry. Laser surgery requires less anesthesia, minimizes swelling, and protects surrounding tissue. Detroit family dentists use lasers for detecting and treating cavities and dental technicians use them for the curing of restorative materials.

Another exciting development in cosmetic dentistry is the CAD-CAM technology that allows Madison Heights cosmetic dentists to perform restorations in a single visit. The types of procedures that can be completed in one visit include crowns, fillings, inlays, onlays, and veneers.

If you need a thorough exam, or expert dental cleaning, or want to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry at 248-541-8770 to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, you can see before and after photos of some of our smile makeover patients. We would love to help you achieve the smile you deserve, and we have the tools, experience, and technology to make that happen- 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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Out of Toothpaste? Here Are 5 Alternative Solutions to Maintain Your Oral Health

Out of Toothpaste? Here Are 5 Alternative Solutions to Maintain Your Oral Health

Toothpaste plays a vital role in maintaining oral hygiene in our Detroit area. There is no doubt that modern toothpaste provides important medical benefit and will help you keep your teeth healthy and strong.

But what happens when you run out of toothpaste unexpectedly?

Fret not! There are several alternative solutions readily available in your home that can effectively clean your teeth and freshen your breath in a pinch. While we are strong advocates for toothpaste here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we also believe it is important to maintain a regular daily habit of brushing your teeth. We also know you can’t always plan ahead or have your toiletry kit on hand.

With this rare circumstance in mind, let’s take a look at five toothpaste substitutes that you can use temporarily until you restock your toothpaste supply.

Plain Household Baking Soda

Baking soda is a versatile household product in Detroit that can act as an excellent toothpaste substitute. Its mild abrasive properties help remove plaque and surface stains, while its alkaline nature neutralizes acids in the mouth. Simply wet your toothbrush, dip it into a small amount of baking soda, and brush your teeth as you would with regular toothpaste. However, use it sparingly as excessive use can erode tooth enamel.

A Quick Saltwater Rinse

Saltwater is a natural antiseptic that can help kill bacteria in your mouth and soothe gum inflammation. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water, swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds, and then spit it out. This method can be used as a temporary solution until you can purchase toothpaste at your local pharmacy in Detroit, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t offer the same benefits as brushing.

A Few Drops of Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide, commonly used as a disinfectant by many in the Detroit area, can also be used as a toothpaste alternative. It helps kill bacteria and reduces plaque buildup. Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water, and use the solution as a mouthwash, swishing it around your mouth for a minute before spitting it out. Avoid swallowing the solution, and do not use concentrations higher than 3%, as it can cause oral irritation.

A Tablespoon of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil pulling has been shown to help with oral health and is popular with naturalists. Oil pulling is a technique that requires you to swish your mouth with coconut oil for 15 minutes or more. Not exactly the most convenient solution for our Detroit friends. Oil pulling “promotes oral health by eliminating bacteria.” Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry doesn’t recommend this practice as a regular solution, and we often wonder whether coconut oil is actually more accessible than at least a little dab of toothpaste, but we wanted to include it for the record.

To use this method, take a tablespoon of organic coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, ensuring it reaches all corners. Spit out the oil afterward and rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. This method can help reduce plaque, freshen breath, and maintain healthy gums. It isn’t the most convenient way to get the job done, and there are skeptics who question the ultimate value of coconut oil pulling, but it will do in a pinch.

Toothbrush Alone

In situations where you don’t have access to any of the above alternatives, using a toothbrush alone can still remove plaque and provide some level of oral cleanliness. Wet your toothbrush and brush your teeth thoroughly for two minutes, focusing on each tooth and using gentle circular motions. While it doesn’t provide the same level of freshness as toothpaste, it’s better than skipping oral hygiene altogether.

While running out of toothpaste can leave you feeling unprepared, these alternative solutions can help maintain your oral health until you can restock your supply.

From baking soda to saltwater rinses, hydrogen peroxide, coconut oil pulling, and even using a toothbrush alone, there are options available for various situations.

However, it’s important to note that these alternatives are not meant to replace regular toothpaste in the long term. Remember to prioritize restocking your toothpaste and maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine to ensure optimal dental health, and we’ll see you at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak Michigan for your next checkup!

 

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

 

ArticleID 4848

The 411 on TMJ

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

 

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3 Vital Reasons to Floss Regularly

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

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

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

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