Restorative dentistry

Hiccups In Your Dental Routine

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Dental cleanings in Detroit, MI.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we know the most common times people brush their teeth are morning and night – either before or after breakfast, after dinner, or at bedtime. Common concerns that come with this routine involve hiccups in the schedule, from family life, to shift work or exhaustion.

Sometimes after dinner isn’t super cut and dried. Many Detroit families face irregular weeknight routines. As the school year progresses, some have games to attend, band concerts, play practice, youth groups, or other weeknight commitments. An irregular schedule generally disrupts regular dental maintenance.

Many Madison Heights workers have daily commutes or shift work to battle with. Due to the changing landscape of Royal Oak’s job market and the greater variety of shift schedules, we see patients who are adjusting to irregularities in sleep patterns. This leads to exhaustion and often sleep takes priority over consistent brushing – either morning or night.

The most important time to be sure to brush is after eating sugar or carb-intensive foods. These foods kickstart bacteria growth on the teeth without vigilant attention.

Highly acidic foods weaken the enamel, so it is best to swish with water immediately after consuming acidic foods to reduce the acid. Then brush about 30 minutes later when the mouth is less acidic. The fluoride in toothpaste helps remineralize the enamel.

Dr. Steven Gustafson’s hygiene staff at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has been assisting Michigan families since 1984 to prevent hiccups in their dental routines.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry provides more than just cosmetic dentistry or teeth cleaning. In addition to dentures, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics there is hygiene education, teeth whitening, and cleanings to be discussed. Sure, the cost of cosmetic dentistry, dental veneers, Invisalign braces, and dental bridges can all seem confusing. The key is to stay on top of the critical habits that you can control. We can help you make sense of the other stuff.

Regular checkups are critical for catching decay, infection, or other problems early so let us make an appointment for your next preventative visit and keep those hiccups from causing permanent damage. Call us at 248-541-8770  to schedule!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6829

Does Your Dentist Conjure Up Cavities?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Hygiene, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Prevent cavities in Royal Oak.

Cavities can be filled, but it is better to prevent cavities in the first place. If your dentist seems to conjure up cavities at every visit, then it’s up to you to break the cycle. But we are here to help you. Let’s work together.

How can you lift the cavity curse? Schedule a preventative dental consultation and examination at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry by calling 248-541-8770. You will be served by several members of our friendly team. One of our experienced dental hygienists will give your teeth and gums the best cleaning they have ever received. He or she will review proper oral hygiene and discuss ways to incorporate these critical habits into your lifestyle.

Steven Gustafson DDS will perform a thorough examination and discuss your dental conditions and goals. We welcome questions about brushing, flossing, diet, medical issues, and lifestyle choices. These are all factors that affect your dental health.

Here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, as much as we love to see our patients, we would prefer they all enjoy healthy smiles and only have to visit a couple of times a year for cleanings and checkups. Use preventative dental visits to improve your oral care techniques and break the cavity curse.

Steven Gustafson DDS is an experienced dental professional who promotes preventative dentistry. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak was launched in 1984 to provide the residents of Royal Oak, Birmingham, Madison Heights, and Berkley with the highest standard of personalized dental care.
Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers a comprehensive menu of dental services including cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, dentures, and orthodontics.


We look forward to working with you to break the cavity curse.

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6412

What Can Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Do For You?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Get comprehensive dental care in Royal Oak, MI.

Hello, and welcome to the Detroit dental health blog. My name is Dr. Steven Gustafson and I want to tell you about our Royal Oak practice, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

Meet Our Compassionate Team of Dental Professionals

The first thing to know is that we work hard to keep our patients comfortable. Our team is compassionate and empathetic. For some men and women, the condition of their teeth is a sensitive subject.

We get it. If you have dental issues–whether it’s decay, gum disease, or discolored teeth–we want to treat these problems and get you back on track when it comes to a healthy smile.

We Respect Your Time

Our team is here to serve you. We know you have many choices in Royal Oak-area dental practices. If you place your trust in us, we will do all we can to make your wait as short as possible. We will work with you to schedule appointments at your convenience.

We Are a Full-Service General and Cosmetic Dental Practice

We provide general and cosmetic dentistry to patients in our Royal Oak office. We serve the entire Detroit area including Birmingham, Berkley, and Madison Heights. Even if you live a bit further away, we promise you that it’s worth the trip.

Our most popular services are:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics
general dentistry

Interested in Upgrading Your Smile?

Along with healthy teeth, many of our Birmingham and Berkley patients want to know more about popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. These include teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, gum contouring, and more!

A combination of cosmetic dental treatments can remedy every problem to achieve your remarkable smile!

If you live in the Detroit area and would like to see what Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has to offer, give us a call at 248-541-8770. We are currently accepting new dental patients!

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6201

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Near Detroit Can Help You Avoid Pain

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

What Makes Teeth Hurt and How Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Near Detroit Can Help You Avoid Pain.

Tooth pain, often described as one of the most agonizing experiences, can stem from various causes, from the mundane to the serious.

Understanding the root of tooth pain and seeking professional care is paramount to maintaining a pain-free smile. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Detroit, we’re committed to helping you prevent and alleviate tooth pain, ensuring that your smile shines as brilliantly as a radiant orange sunrise.

The Culprits Behind Tooth Pain

  • Tooth Decay: Cavities, the most common cause of tooth pain, occur when acids from bacteria in your mouth eat away at the enamel, creating tiny holes that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
  • Gum Disease: As the gums become inflamed and recede due to infection or poor oral hygiene, the roots of your teeth can become exposed, leading to pain and sensitivity.
  • Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A broken or cracked tooth can cause excruciating pain, especially when chewing or exposing it to extreme temperatures.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can result from exposed dentin, a layer beneath the enamel, due to gum recession or enamel erosion. It can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages.
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted, leading to severe pain and potential infection.

Preventing Tooth Pain through Dental Visits

Regular dental visits at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Detroit are a crucial step in avoiding tooth pain. Here’s how professional care can help:

  • Early Detection: Routine check-ups can identify dental issues in their early stages, preventing them from becoming painful problems.
  • Professional Cleanings: Our dental team can remove plaque and tartar buildup, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Education: We provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and offer tips to protect your teeth from sensitivity and pain.
  • Treatment Options: If tooth pain is already an issue, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers a range of treatments to alleviate pain and restore your oral health.

How Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry Can Help You

Our team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is committed to providing compassionate and expert dental care. We understand that tooth pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your quality of life. By choosing us, you’re making the proactive choice to maintain a pain-free smile.

Tooth pain can be disruptive, but it’s not something you have to endure alone. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Detroit, we are your partners in preventing and alleviating tooth pain.

Don’t let your smile be overshadowed by discomfort. Schedule a visit with us today, and together, we can ensure that your teeth remain pain-free and brilliantly beautiful.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8713

Want to Fill Those Gaps in Your Smile?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

Tooth replacement options in Royal Oak.

Do you have gaps in your smile? At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we know many Royal Oak adults are missing one or more teeth. You probably already know that missing teeth detract from an attractive smile. You may be self-conscious about your smile. Do you cover your mouth when you laugh? Perhaps you keep your mouth closed when someone takes a picture of you.

You Don’t Have to Live With Missing Teeth

That’s no way to live. We provide multiple ways to maintain (or regain) your ability to eat, drink, speak, laugh, and smile in selfies.

We help hundreds of patients restore missing teeth. If you are interested in tooth restoration (actually, total smile restoration), we invite you to schedule a consultation.

Your consultation will include a treatment plan to restore missing teeth, an outline of the cost of required procedures, and a schedule for completing the services.

Dr. Steven Gustafson creates stunning smiles

If you have missing teeth, Dr. Steven Gustafson has solutions.

Since 1984, Dr. Gustafson has built a dental practice based on expertise, experience, and a patient-focused philosophy of care.

There have never been as many options for tooth restoration.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is used where a tooth is missing. Aptly named, it “bridges” a gap between teeth. It is a restoration with a false tooth (or teeth) attached to the surrounding teeth. Dental bridges have been used with success for generations of people who have lost teeth.

A Tooth Implant Replaces the Root Also

An implant consists of an artificial tooth PLUS an artificial root (usually biocompatible titanium). A dental implant is a more extensive replacement for a missing tooth.

With local anesthesia, your dentist anchors the artificial root into the jawbone. In the following months, it integrates and meshes with the jaw bone tissue.

There are three components of a dental implant: the artificial root or post, the connecting abutment, and the final crown or denture. An implant is often the optimal restoration as it offers beauty, strength, and natural function. In addition, it offers something many patients don’t realize is important: protection from bone recession that often takes place at the site of a missing tooth.

Traditional and Implant Supported Dentures

Most people have heard of dentures: plates holding artificial teeth that can be removed by the wearer. These are custom and can contain varying numbers of teeth. Sometimes the entire set of upper and lower teeth have to be extracted and a custome denture created. Modern dentistry offers a myriad of custom dental implant-denture combinations to restore missing teeth.

Dental Veneers

If you still have your teeth but are not comfortable with them, a dental veneer might be a great solution that preserves the healthy tooth structure. Beautiful porcelain veneers can remedy uneven color, oddly sized, or slightly misshapen teeth.

A veneer is a thin shell that your dentist bonds to the front of the teeth. In other words, a dental veneer can enhance unsightly, but structurally sound teeth.

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8679

The Rate of Bone Loss After Extraction Can Be Slowed or Stopped With an Implant

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Categories: General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

Alveolar bone loss after tooth extraction treated by Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

The Alveolar Bone

The bone surrounding the teeth is called the alveolar bone. Its main job is to support the teeth and provide a heavy-duty foundation for tooth roots. Normal mouth function maintains bone health. As you chew, it stimulates bone cells to consistently create new bone. Alveolar bone loss, a common dental condition, refers to the gradual deterioration of the bone surrounding teeth, often resulting from periodontal disease or tooth loss. This loss of bone density can lead to complications such as loose teeth and compromised jaw structure. Seeking prompt treatment is crucial to prevent further deterioration and maintain oral health. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers advanced diagnostic techniques and effective treatments to address alveolar bone loss, ensuring patients regain both the function and aesthetics of their smile.

What can cause alveolar bone loss?

Extraction

When a tooth is removed, the bone at the extraction site is no longer needed.

It’s not just that the root is gone, the forces of chewing no longer stimulate the bone at that site. First, the bone gets narrower. Then it gets shorter.

Studies have shown that a considerable amount of alveolar bone loss can occur within six weeks after an extraction.

Periodontal disease

Gum disease is not just a problem with the soft tissues. The infection caused by gingivitis (gum disease) can destroy the alveolar bone. Advanced periodontal disease can result in the loss of teeth. The rate of bone loss caused by periodontal disease may be accelerated when the tooth roots are gone.

What if I can’t get an implant immediately after a tooth extraction?

If you plan to get a tooth implant after having a tooth extracted, it’s best to do it as soon as your implant dentist recommends. Bone diminishes quickly.

Some implant dentists use socket preservation grafts. With this service, your dentist fills the extraction socket with bone grafting material. The grafting material should start integrating with the surrounding bone. This won’t halt all bone loss, but it may slow it down.

Dentures don’t preserve the alveolar bone

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 25% of adults over 65 have no original teeth. Many people with missing teeth or no teeth at all choose dentures. This is understandable. It’s challenging to eat and speak with no teeth in the mouth. And nobody wants a toothless mouth.

It’s important to understand, however, that dentures don’t replace the roots of the missing teeth and they don’t preserve the alveolar bone. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that helps preserve jawbone structure.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8267

How Tooth Grinding Can Damage Your Smile

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Categories: Dental Health, Restorative dentistry, TMJ Treatment

Get tooth grinding treatment in Royal Oak, MI.

What is Tooth Grinding?

Tooth grinding (or bruxism in doctor-speak) is a common behavior among people of all ages. It is when a person involuntarily clenches their jaw or rubs their teeth together. Tooth grinding can take place during the day or night and can affect kids and adults. Some individuals grind their teeth intermittently when they are going through periods of unusual stress. For other people, it becomes a habit over a period of time.

Regardless of the cause, tooth grinding can be painful and damaging to your smile. It can also have a long-term influence on physical and mental health.

The Dangers of Teeth Grinding

  • It can bring about loose teeth
  • It can cause physical pain in the teeth or face
    • Headaches
    • Jaw pain
    • Ear pain
    • Tooth pain
  • It can crack teeth
  • It can wear down your enamel
  • It can cause abnormalities with the alignment of the bite

Tips/Ways to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

  • Wear a mouthguard to bed
  • Botox (injections of Botox into the jaw muscles can prevent the muscles from contracting in some men and women)
  • Biofeedback
  • Physical therapy
  • Stress relief exercises
  • Avoid caffeine
  • Avoid alcohol

Resources to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

  • Speak with Dr.Gustafson  about a custom night guard or splint
  • Talk to your primary care physician about possible underlying medical factors
  • Talk to a sleep medicine specialist
  • Talk to a medical professional who is experienced in using Botox to treat medical conditions–these include dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, TMD specialists, and some dentists

If you grind your teeth, we invite you to set up a consultation with Dr. Gustafson. We can discuss creating a custom night guard to help protect your teeth. We can also refer you to other professionals who can help you overcome the underlying reason for your teeth grinding.

Do You Already Have Tooth Damage from Bruxism?

If you have already damaged your teeth, let’s discuss options for correcting the issues. These might include porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or full crowns to protect against further damage.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8365

Chipped Tooth? No Need To Panic

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Categories: Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry, Veneers

How your dentist can repair a chipped tooth.

There are basically two ways to handle a chipped tooth:
1. Panic.
2. See Dr. Steven Gustafson right away and get on with life.

Dr. Steven Gustafson at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can fix a chipped tooth in a jiffy by determining the right solution and expertly performing the procedure. Decay, missing teeth, braces, and even crowns can impact the course of treatment.

Time is often an important factor when it comes to tooth repair so don’t wait, call 248-541-8770 to schedule an appointment. Our address is:
940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan 48067

We’ve been around since 1984 – serving your neighbors in Royal Oak and improving smiles for Birmingham patients.

When Royal Oak residents need cosmetic dentistry, we’ve successfully managed their treatment. When Madison Heights patients have needed teeth cleaning, we’ve watched happy, smiling patients leave our office. And when you need Invisalign clear braces, we are pleased with the opportunity to make a true believer out of you!

We offer dentures, general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and orthodontics. Trust Dr. Gustafson to deliver exceptional results. No panic. No mistakes. No worries.

Relax.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6411

Gap-Tooth Smiles Aren’t Quite As Adorable Anymore

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

dental implant cost Berkley

Have you lost teeth? It’s a lot different than when you lost your baby teeth way back in the day. Unfortunately, these don’t grow back. (And a gap-toothed smile doesn’t look as cute as it did when you were in kindergarten.)

If you have had teeth extracted or if your teeth are compromised by staining, decay, chipping, or brittle aging, then it’s time to visit with Dr. Steven Gustafson at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

Since 1984, Dr. Gustafson has built a practice teeming with experience, filled with kindness, flowing with a gentle touch, and carrying all the wisdom of experienced professionals.

When it comes to the prospect of losing your adult teeth, the preference is always to save your natural teeth. If this is not feasible, we offer several ways to maintain your ability to eat, drink, speak, laugh, and smile in selfies.

Dental Veneers

If you still have your teeth but are not satisfied with them, these might be your solution. Stunning porcelain veneers offer a reasonably-priced approach to cosmetic adjustments—uneven color, size, or shape. These are very thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth. They improve unsightly, but structurally sound teeth.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is used where a tooth is missing. It “bridges” a gap between teeth. It is a restoration with a false tooth (or teeth) attached to the surrounding teeth. Dental bridges have been used successfully for decades.

Dental Implant

A dental implant is a more extensive replacement for a missing tooth. An implant consists of an artificial tooth PLUS an artificial root (usually biocompatible titanium). With local anesthesia, the artificial root is actually inserted into the jaw bone where it integrates with the bone tissue. There are three parts to a dental implant: the artificial root, the connecting abutment, and the final crown or denture. An implant is often the proper restoration as it offers beauty, strength, natural function, and protection from bone recession that often transpires at the site of a missing tooth.

Dentures

Most individuals have heard of dentures: a plate holding artificial teeth that can be removed by the wearer. These are tailor-made and can contain varying numbers of teeth. Sometimes the entire set of upper and lower teeth have to be pulled and a denture created. Modern dentistry offers a myriad of custom dental implant-denture combinations to restore missing teeth.

Don’t worry about losing your grip on the adult teeth you’ve been enjoying all these years. We have experience and training in many critical services to meet your dental needs including dentures, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, and dental implants.

Schedule your initial consultation at 248-541-8770 to visit us at 940 E 11 Mile Rd in Royal Oak, Michigan. We are perfectly situated for our neighbors throughout the Detroit area.

Your consultation will include a customized treatment plan for restoring teeth, an outline of the cost of desired care and a schedule for completing the work. Come with questions and leave with answers.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 6945

7 Ways To Fix A Chipped Tooth

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Categories: Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry, Veneers

fix broken tooth Royal Oak

In a perfect world, each of your cherished teeth would stay healthy, strong, and brilliantly white throughout your life. The truth is, however, that most Michigan men and women will need to restore a tooth at some point.

A tooth can be compromised by tooth decay, enamel erosion, a chip or crack, gum disease, or injury. Sometimes old restorations break and need to be replaced or root canals performed decades ago develop an abscess.

Here are 7 different options for repairing a damaged tooth:

Dental Bonding
Bonding, officially called direct composite veneers, is used to fix minor cosmetic issues – small chips, cracks, discoloration, and spaces between teeth. A skilled cosmetic dentist applies moldable tooth-colored composite resin and shapes as desired. The resin is then cured with a special light to harden and adhere tightly to the tooth. Composite bonding is typically the most affordable option for improving healthy teeth with minor cosmetic issues.

Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin tooth-shaped fronts that are permanently bonded to your natural teeth. They are used when the underlying tooth is structurally sound and free of cavities. A beautiful veneer can cover a chip or crack or correct the alignment of a tooth that appears slightly off-kilter as compared to surrounding teeth.

Fillings
Modern white fillings are strong and inconspicuous. A minimally invasive filling at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry leaves you with more of nature’s optimal dental material — your own enamel and dentin. We can also replace old amalgam fillings with white fillings. This makes your teeth look a lot better every time you open your mouth. Get rid of all that metal!

Inlays and Onlays
A traditional filling is shaped and molded after it is applied to the tooth. Because inlays and onlays are constructed in a dental lab, they are frequently called indirect fillings. A less invasive inlay or onlay may be used instead of a traditional filling or, in some cases, a crown. Inlays are applied to just the center of the biting surface of a tooth (not to a cusp or point) and are typically smaller than onlays. An onlay restores one or more cusps of a tooth.

Crowns
A crown replaces the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring appearance, durability, and function. A crown is typically necessary for a tooth that has had a root canal, a tooth with acute decay, or as the replacement tooth in a dental bridge. Attaching a crown to the abutment is the final step of a tooth implant procedure. Crowns can be made of all metal (such as gold), porcelain-fused-to-metal, all ceramic, or all resin.

Soft Tissue Grafts
Gum recession puts teeth and underlying bones at risk. Soft tissue grafting can cover the exposed root of a tooth to prohibit further damage. Gum surgery is also performed for cosmetic reasons such as reshaping a gumline to eliminate a “gummy” smile.

Dental Implants
What if a tooth has to be extracted because it is beyond saving? For many Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry patients, a dental implant anchored into the bone is the proper solution. A tooth implant consists of a strong metal post (artificial root), abutment (connecting piece), and beautiful crown. A dental implant has many advantages over a dental bridge. They are stronger, provide virtually natural function, restrict bone recession, and do not impact the surrounding teeth. For patients with numerous missing teeth, individually-constructed implant-anchored dentures can be created in any configuration needed.

For more specifics about any of these procedures, call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry at 248-541-8770. Thanks for visiting the Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry blog. We appreciate your interest in our Royal Oak dental practice.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7028