General Dentistry

Your Mouth Sore Might Be Stomatitis

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, General Dentistry

Detroit Mouths And Stomatitis

Ouch! The mouth is a bad place for injuries, sores, or inflammation. It seems that even the smallest irritation in the mouth can cause serious discomfort for Royal Oak dental patients.

Inflammation Causes Stomatitis

These non-specific irritations in the mouth have a name. They are called stomatitis.

A good general definition for stomatitis is the inflammation of the membranes in the mouth. These usually affect a person’s ability to speak, eat, and even get to sleep at night. If you suffer from mouth sores, you know that stomatitis can really impact your quality of life.

Do You Get a Lot of Mouth Sores?

Some common causes of stomatitis can be canker sores, cold sores, , biting the inside of your mouth or your tongue, burning your mouth, and irritation caused by braces or broken teeth. Many sores in the mouth will generally clear up on their own in less than two weeks.

You May Have an Infection

However, your dentist can identify if it is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, and they can also advise you on treating the symptoms of stomatitis with pain relievers and at-home remedies such as salt water rinses.

Hi. I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak. I help my patients achieve healthy and beautiful smiles. If you have any questions about mouth sores, give us a call at 248-541-8770.

Do You Want to Improve Your Smile?

Perhaps you would like to improve your smile with cosmetic dentistry. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we perform complete . Procedures used in smile makeovers include teeth whitening, gum contouring, veneers, bonding, and dental implants. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we offer:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics
general dentistry

We hope to see you in our Royal Oak office soon!

 

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 Reason To Look For The ADA Seal

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, General Dentistry

Madison Heights cosmetic dental and adult braces

When you go to your drugstore or supermarket looking for toothpaste, mouthwash, teeth whitener, or another oral care product, be sure that the product you decide on lists the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Today, we look at 4 ways the ADA seal can help you make good oral care choices for you and your family.

1. Products with the seal have to be safe and effective, so you won’t waste your cash on something that won’t work, or worse, can harm you.

2. The American Dental Association (ADA) only places its seal on a product after serious scientific testing. This usually means that manufacturers have to meet higher standards than those required by law.

3. When you purchase products with the ADA seal, it’s practically like shopping with your Royal Oak dentist or dental hygienist right by your side! Who wouldn’t want that extra knowledge and information?

4. The ADA seal is not the organization’s endorsement of one particular product or another but rather is a verification of the assertions made by said product, claims on which savvy consumers can rely.

Dr. Gustafson of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry serves the Detroit, area from our beautiful practice in Royal Oak. We take pride in caring for our patients and, like the ADA, want you to have a healthy, beautiful smile.

 

 

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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5 Ways To Prevent A Cracked Tooth

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Teeth whitening

cost of dental crowns Detroit

Cracked teeth can be painful, unattractive, and expensive to repair. Today’s post in the Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry dental blog contains an easy-to-follow list of tips to keep your teeth whole and strong.

1. Don’t chew on hard substances. Mind-blowing, right? People should steer clear of ice, hard candies, hard nuts, popcorn, and beef jerky. Also be wary of pitted fruits—that peach may be soft but if you bite hard into the stone, you could damage a tooth.

2. It is important to protect your teeth while engaging in any physical activity where your mouth can be hit. If you enjoy pick-up basketball games, indoor soccer leagues, rec center flag football, and many other activities, you should be using a well-fitting mouth protector.

3. Don’t use your teeth as a tool. Locate a pair of scissors to open a package or rip the price tag off a new piece of clothing with your teeth. Use a nutcracker for nuts. A quality dental crown can cost hundreds of dollars.

4. Most people know that grinding your teeth is detrimental, but did you know that it can lead to a cracked tooth? If you know or suspect that you are a tooth grinder, speak with your dentist so you can address the problem with stress reduction techniques and/or a mouth guard. Chronic head or jaw pain can be caused by teeth grinding.

5. Lastly, make sure that you visit your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist can alert you to conditions that might predispose you to cracked teeth, such as having an uneven chewing surface or brittle teeth. Your dentist may also discover tiny cracks you aren’t aware of. These cracks can then be repaired before further damage or decay occurs.

If you already have a cracked tooth, never fear! Treatment is available for cracks small and large. Veneers, cosmetic dental bonding, inlays/onlays, fillings, and dental implants are all used to repair or replace damaged teeth.

If you break a tooth, call 248-541-8770 or come to our office at 940 E 11 Mile Rd in Royal Oak.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7771

Gum Disease Linked To Alzheimer’s: Keep Those Gums Healthy!

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Categories: General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

gum disease treatment Royal Oak

As if you needed another reason to keep your gums in top condition.

Scientists have found a connection between a bacteria that causes periodontitis (advanced gum disease) and Alzheimer’s Disease.

Porphyomonas gingivalis is a bacteria that often leads to chronic periodontitis. The bacteria was discovered in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients.

The research study, “Porphyromonas gingivalis in Alzheimer’s disease brains: Evidence for disease causation and treatment with small-molecule inhibitors,” can be found at Science Advances.

The researchers concluded:

“Chronic periodontitis and infection with Porphyomonas gingivalis have been identified as significant risk factors for developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”

Periodontal disease, typically called gum disease, is inflammation or infection of the gums. For the most part, periodontal disease is preventable.

Risk factors for periodontal disease include tobacco use, substandard oral hygiene, genetics, teeth grinding, inflammatory conditions, and poor nutrition.

This study should dispel the misconception that oral health is somehow separate from physical health.

It is vital to see your dentist regularly to keep your gums healthy (as well as your teeth). To schedule a periodontal disease exam, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry today at 248-541-8770 or visit https://gmdentistry.com.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8096

 

Are Your Teeth green?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Teeth whitening

Are Your Teeth white?

…probably not. But tooth color is probably something you have been concerned about.

One of our primary concerns at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is ensuring that our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. But beyond just the health aspect, I also strive to help our patients achieve beautiful smiles that they can be proud of.

One important aspect of this is the color of your teeth.

To start, it’s important to understand that tooth color can vary from person to person. While you certainly don’t have pure orange teeth, you do have a color that is in a known range. Some people naturally have whiter teeth, while others may have teeth that are more yellow or grayish in color.

Additionally, factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle habits (such as smoking or consuming dark-colored beverages like coffee or red wine) can also affect the color of a person’s teeth.

As a dentist, I’m trained to evaluate the color of my patients’ teeth and recommend appropriate treatments to help improve their appearance. For example, one common treatment option is teeth whitening. This involves using a special bleaching agent to lighten the color of the teeth, making them appear whiter and brighter.

However, it’s important to note that not all teeth are suitable candidates for whitening. For example, teeth that are severely discolored or have undergone certain dental procedures (such as root canals) may not respond well to whitening treatments. In these cases, alternative treatment options may need to be considered, such as dental veneers or crowns.

Another important consideration when it comes to tooth color is maintaining good oral hygiene habits. Regular brushing and flossing can help remove surface stains and prevent new ones from forming. Additionally, visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups can help identify and address any underlying dental issues that may be contributing to discoloration.

Overall, we believe that helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles is a crucial part of our job here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. While tooth color is just one aspect of this, it’s an important one that can have a significant impact on your overall confidence and self-esteem.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8688

5 Critical Things To Know About Periodontal Disease

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

gum disease exam Royal Oak

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is inflammation or infection of the gums. For the most part, periodontal disease is preventable. This condition is so widespread in the US that it has been called a ‘health crisis’ by the ADA. Fortunately, periodontal disease can be treated.

  1. If left untreated, it can cause irreversible damage such as tooth loss.
  2. Practicing proper dental hygiene and having 6-month dental exams are the best way to prevent periodontal disease.
  3. Periodontal disease can occur without the presence of decay.
  4. Almost half of all 30+ adults in the US have periodontal disease.
  5. In some cases, periodontal disease generates no noticeable symptoms.

Risk factors for periodontal disease include tobacco use, dissatisfactory oral hygiene (especially failing to floss), genetics, teeth grinding, inflammatory conditions, and poor nutrition.

Even if you don’t feel any pain in your mouth, it is vital to see your dentist regularly. To schedule a periodontal disease exam, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry today at 248-541-8770 or visit https://gmdentistry.com.

“Periodontal Disease Affects Nearly Half of the U.S. Population,” American Dental Association, June 15, 2015, http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/science-in-the-news/periodontal-disease-affects-nearly-half-us-population, accessed June 6, 2017

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

ArticleID 7464

Optimum Oral Health Includes Exams and Cleanings

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Categories: Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

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

Swollen Gums?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

If Your Gums Are Swollen And Sore, Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

If you are a worried Royal Oak resident experiencing inflamed gums or an aching tooth, you are not alone.

There is an Epidemic of Dental Problems

About one-third of U.S. adults are by tooth decay, according to the CDC, and gum disease plagues one in seven people age 35 to 40. Don’t ignore these symptoms, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry today at 248-541-8770 for immediate treatment.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we take gum disease, sometimes called gingivitis, seriously because left untreated it can lead to loss of bone and tissue that support the teeth.

Do Your Gums Bleed?

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. You will know you have it if your gums bleed easily and look red and swollen. If this ailment is not reversed it can lead to periodontitis. With this condition, your gums become loose and separate from the teeth forming cavities that can become infected. This can spread to the bone supporting the tooth. If this is damaged, the tooth can be lost. (If you have already lost a tooth to gum disease, ask us about dental implants.)

You Can Reverse Early Stage Gum Disease

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we recommend daily brushing and flossing and regular dental cleanings to help combat gingivitis. Our team has been treating gum disease and other dental issues for Michigan patients since 1984.

If you want your teeth to feel fresh and bright, come in for a cleaning and check-up. Don’t become a statistic, prevent gingivitis by treating your teeth and gums with the TLC they deserve. (After all, they work pretty hard for you day in and day out.)

Looking for an Experienced Dentist in Royal Oak?

My name is Steven Gustafson and my staff and I at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offer quality general and cosmetic dental services including cosmetic dentistry , dental implants, and dentures.

Take care of your beautiful smile by calling Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry today. 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 3782

We Understand Dental Anxiety

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

sedation dentistry Royal Oak

Dental professionals in the Royal Oak area (including the team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry) are dedicated to oral health. Unfortunately, some individuals rarely go to the dentist. Others have the misconception that you only need to go to the dentist when you have a toothache.

In addition, there are those who have severe dental anxiety. Perhaps you fall into this category.

Dental anxiety is real, we get it.

If you are apprehensive about dental visits, here are a few guidance that may help ease you into scheduled dental checkups. Certainly, enriched oral health will elevate your quality of life.

Choose a dentist you can trust.

I understand how difficult it can be to seek dental treatment. That’s why I make sure my patients are comfortable before I examine their teeth. First, I ask you many questions. I want to get to know you, and help you get to know me. Communication builds a connection. A connection leads to a trusting relationship.

The more I know about you, the easier I can help you.

Be prepared to provide me with vital information about your lifestyle and health. Many men and women are intimidated at a dentist office. Because of this, they may hesitate to disclose sensitive issues.

We are here to help, regardless of your history or oral condition.

There is nothing in your past that we haven’t dealt with. Neglecting oral health. Drug use. Eating disorders. Regardless of your history, we have helped patients with similar dilemmas.

In order to help you, I need complete accurate details. Bring notes if you are worried that you will forget something.

Also, during treatment, tell me what you are experiencing so I can help you feel more relaxed. If we find that you are going to need a dental procedure more extensive than filling a cavity, let’s discuss sleep dentistry.

Oral sedation is safe and effective.

The most important thing to know is that oral conscious sedation or sleep dentistry is perfectly safe. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we have been providing sedation since 1984. We offer different levels of sedation and a choice of medication including oral analgesics, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, our friendly staff will work to make your visit as pleasant as possible.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8615

What is a Beautiful Smile Worth?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

smile makeovers Royal Oak

What is a beautiful smile worth? Men and women who have received a smile makeover at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak say it was worth every penny.

Your smile is a part of you that you share with your family, friends, and colleagues every day. An attractive smile creates confidence. If you are uncomfortable with your smile, you waste mental and physical energy trying to hide it.

How would your life improve if you felt comfortable in every social and professional setting?

If you have been trying to hide your smile for years, what incorrect assumptions have others made about you? Do you come across as self-conscious or distant because you hardly laugh at jokes and barely crack a smile when you meet someone for the first time?

Cosmetic dentistry is life-changing and the ultimate anti-aging treatment. When you quit trying to hide your teeth, you are free to put all your energy into your work, play—everything!

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak, Dr. Steven Gustafson carefully contours perfect smiles for our smile-design patients.

We also make sure our smile makeover patients are completely relaxed during treatment. If you are afraid of dentists or have had negative experiences in the past, rest assured that we understand how you feel and our caring dental team will do our best to relieve your concerns.

Life is better when you love your smile. Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak today!

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 2642