Gum Disease

The 4 Stages of Gum Disease

Posted on
Categories: General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

four stages of gum disease Detroit

You may be wondering why sometimes your gums are red and swollen, or your breath is bad. Maybe you’re just seeking information about improving your dental health and want to be more aware for your next appointment. Learn about the four stages of gum disease you may be overlooked when considering your comprehensive dental needs.

GINGIVITIS

Try not to worry if your dentist recently diagnosed you with gingivitis. There is still hope for a total recovery and you can take action to prevent the condition from worsening. The primary symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums that cause discomfort while brushing and flossing. You may also notice undesirable breath on occasion. Gingivitis is usually caused by the buildup of bacteria on our teeth and along the gum line. The most common treatment is increased brushing and flossing in addition to more frequent dentist appointments. Be prepared to visit the dentist every 3 months for deep cleanings and professional attention instead of the usual semi-annual checkups.

EARLY-STAGE PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Unfortunately, if you hear “periodontal disease” or “periodontitis” in your next dentist appointment, you may be in danger of more serious effects. This means an infection has spread beneath your gums allowing harmful bacteria to slowly destroy the bone holding your teeth in place. Slight periodontal disease is the next step in the development of gum disease (or periodontal disease). This may result in redness and swelling of the gums, foul breath, and recurrent bleeding during brushing and flossing. It can be concerning any time our gums bleed while flossing, but it isn’t always a sign of gum disease and may simply be from inadequate dental hygiene. Also, early-stage periodontal disease can’t be completely reversed, but your dentist can design a treatment plan to keep it from getting worse.

MODERATE PERIODONTAL DISEASE

Moderate periodontal disease can also be managed by your dentist but involves more advanced treatment. Your dentist will need to remove plaque from below the gum line (this same treatment may also be used with early-stage periodontal disease) in order to help correct the condition. Since your gums are slowly detaching from your teeth at this stage, surgery can reshape your gums and close the pockets between your gums and teeth to reduce plaque buildup. This may sound intimidating, but don’t worry too much! With superb self-care and one of our skilled oral hygienists at your side, you can still prevent this ailment from worsening.

ADVANCED PERIODONTAL DISEASE

The concluding stage of periodontitis creates the most large-scale impact on your oral health. Most of the time dentists will use surgery to prevent tooth loss. Flap surgery is common for this stage and involves cleaning the roots of your teeth by scrubbing behind your gums. Your dentist may also smooth or reshape your weakened bone to prevent bacteria from collecting.

However, remember that we are all in control of our dental health. Occasionally genetic conditions can weaken our immune system and harm our gums and teeth, worsening periodontitis, but usually, we can prevent acute conditions like this from progressing by practicing careful dental health habits.

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8543

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

Posted on
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

 

5 Critical Things To Know About Periodontal Disease

Posted on
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

Posted on
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?

Posted on
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

Pregnancy and Oral Health

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Gum Disease, Teeth whitening

Pregnancy And Oral Health In Royal Oak

In today’s Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry blog, we will discuss how pregnancy impacts your dental health. I am Dr. Steven Gustafson and I want all expectant Michigan mothers to realize the importance of good oral hygiene during pregnancy. Because of the changes going on in a pregnant woman’s body, there are potential dental health issues that may arise.

Many Royal Oak women experience morning sickness accompanied with vomiting. The gastric acid increases the acidity in the mouth which can easily lead to enamel loss and tooth decay. Heightened levels of progesterone and estrogen may relax the ligaments that support the teeth causing them to loosen.

Hormonal Changes Affect Oral Health

Most Royal Oak residents have experienced gingivitis, but during pregnancy, the hormonal changes increase your risk for gingivitis. Without proper dental care, gingivitis can lead to gum disease.

Dental Hygiene During Pregnancy

If you are a pregnant Michigan woman, my staff and I at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush for daily brushing. Floss carefully and rinse your mouth with a fluoride wash. If you experience morning sickness, clean your mouth with a baking soda and water mixture.

Planning to Become Pregnant?

If you are planning to become pregnant, we recommend that you have a cleaning and exam prior to your pregnancy. If you need any dental procedures, it is a good idea to get them done as soon as possible. If you experience any dental problems during your pregnancy, please call and schedule an appointment at 248-541-8770. Untreated dental disease can affect your overall health.

We Pamper our Patients

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we not only offer excellent dental care to our pregnant patients, we provide quality preventative care and cosmetic dentistry for the entire family. Our Royal Oak patients can expect professional cosmetic dentistry, teeth cleaning, and Berkley 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 4245

We Understand Dental Anxiety

Posted on
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

Look Younger By Straightening Your Teeth

Posted on
Categories: Clear braces, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

invisible braces for adults Royal Oak

Today’s message is for people in their golden years who want to improve their smile by straightening their teeth.

There are many benefits to retirement. Waking up whenever you dang well please. Time to devote to your favorite hobbies or humanitarian causes. Traveling. Grandchildren.

Braces Aren’t Just For Teens

It’s not all a picnic, however. Many older men and women have health problems, limited mobility, and financial concerns. Though some problems can’t be avoided, others can. Crooked teeth, for instance.

Could Your Smile Benefit From Adult Braces?

Orthodontics can repair all types of tooth alignment problems. Overbite? Gap between your two front teeth? Crowded teeth?

With modern orthodontics at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, older individuals can have an exceptional smile that looks as young as they feel.

Let’s consider some orthodontic options.

Self-ligating Braces

Traditional braces have brackets and an archwire. The brackets are mounted to the teeth and the archwire is attached to the brackets. With self-ligating braces, the archwire is connected to the brackets with a spring clip. This replaces the plastic color band necessary with traditional metal braces.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear aligners instead of metal or ceramic brackets. With Invisalign aligners, you switch aligners every couple of weeks as your teeth gently shift into place.

How can straightening crooked teeth benefit you in your golden years?

We all know that a pleasing smile improves one’s appearance. Everyone wants to look more attractive. However, the benefits aren’t purely aesthetic.

  • You are less likely to snore if your teeth are aligned effectively
  • They feel good when you rub your tongue over them!
  • You are less likely to experience gum disease
  • Straight teeth can prevent tooth decay
  • You are less likely to feel tooth pain due to displacement or misalignment

Braces + Tooth Implants for a Complete Smile Makeover

Regardless of your age, it is not too late to improve your smile–even if you have some missing teeth. Braces combined with dental implant procedures can transform a smile.

If you would like to consider teeth straightening, I invite you to schedule an adult braces consultation by calling 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 8655

Bad Breath Is No Fun

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

Bad Breath Is No Fun For Royal Oak Residents Imagine you are starting a new job and are going to talk to your new boss for the first time. Confidence is key to your success. As you reach out to shake the extended hand your broad confident smile exposes rows of pearly white teeth, yet when you open your mouth to exchange greetings you worry about bad breath.

Perhaps your breath is not as pleasant as you had hoped. Bad breath is a worry and possible embarrassment for many men and women. Regular dental checkups at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can help alleviate your concern over bad breath. We have been addressing bad breath since 1984.

The technical term for bad breath is halitosis. Many conditions and behaviors can cause or contribute to bad breath. One of these factors is the food you eat. Onions and garlic are both known for having a potent effect on your breath.

Brushing and flossing daily is a critical step in curing bad breath. Food particles can build up in your mouth and foster bacteria which can cause bad breath. This not only includes the food particles that may get stuck between your teeth, but also the food that collects around your gums or on your tongue. Brushing and flossing daily can help reduce the number of food particles that stay in your mouth and cause bad breath.

Other factors to examine include dry mouth, tobacco use, and health concerns such as infections. Come visit Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry located in Royal Oak, Michigan; we’ll provide you with information about bad breath in a professional environment. Give us a call at 248-541-8770 to set up an appointment.

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

 

ArticleID 346

6 Good Reasons To Visit Your Dentist More Often

Posted on
Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

6 Good Reasons To Visit Your Dentist More Often

Most people visit the dentist about once each year. As many as forty percent of Americans see their dentist less often. Some go as long as five years between visits.

Most dentists prescribe a visit at least every six months.

Here are six terrific reasons to visit your dentist more frequently.

1. Oral Cancer Detection

That’s right: cancer detection. Not many men and women think about the risk of getting cancer in their mouths or throat. Patients with oral cancer have a far better prognosis when it’s detected early. Note that tobacco users have a considerably higher risk of developing oral cancer.

2. Cavity Damage

Unfortunately, almost everyone gets cavities. If cavities are caught when they are small, they aren’t difficult (or costly) to repair.

The problem comes when they aren’t discovered early and the damage requires a major fix. Cavities are one of the reasons many people avoid dentists. Getting a tooth filled used to be painful. Not anymore.

People who visit the dentist frequently have fewer cavities. Catching cavities early offers tremendous advantages.

Visiting Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can help you prevent cavities altogether—as long as you practice proper dental hygiene.

3. Gum Disease, Gingivitis, or Periodontitis

Gum health is a part of overall dental health. Your dentist can help you track the condition of your gums and prescribe ways to eliminate or reverse gum disease.

4. Bad Habits

Bad habits can have a negative influence on your oral health. Smoking, poor diet, biting nails, and clenching teeth are among the more common.

Frequent visits to Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can help you track any potential harm you may be causing with bad habits. Your dentist can help you identify harmful habits and advise you on lifestyle changes and treatments.

Don’t let bad habits get in the way of your oral health. It helps to have an experienced professional to help you deal with habits so they don’t become destructive.

5. Deeper Problems

The things we have discussed so far involve an oral examination. However, has the ability to look deeper with X-rays.

X-ray technology has come a long way. It allows your dentist to find potential problems before they become visible. Many of the problems can be fixed before damage occurs.

6. More Than Just Teeth

The professionals at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry are concerned about more than your teeth. We care about your comprehensive physical health.

Dentists are trained in the anatomy around your mouth. That includes your neck, throat, lymph nodes, and head. Dentists know a lot about these areas and look for signs of trouble.

A semiannual dental visit can help you maintain a healthy mouth and a positive outlook on life.

See you soon!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7785