Restorative dentistry

How Do Implant Dentures Work?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

implant dentures Royal Oak

Many men and women know that a permanent tooth implant is an ideal tooth restoration. Some don’t realize, however, that two or more can support a partial or full denture. This can be a less expensive option than having numerous implants while still providing many improvements as compared to standard dentures.

Today’s article answers the most prevalent questions about implant dentures.

The first thing to know is that a fixed implant denture is called an “implant-supported” denture while a removable one is called an “implant-retained” denture.

What Are Implant Dentures?

Like conventional dentures, implant-supported dentures replace missing teeth. The difference is that they are attached to titanium posts which are surgically anchored into the jawbone.

Each post is called an implant. The implant fuses with the surrounding bone structure to create an incredibly durable restoration. These posts are similar to the implants that hold a crown, except instead of a crown, they have a clip that attaches to the denture, partial denture, or metal bar that holds the denture connectors. Implants can be used for both upper and lower dentures.

Bar-Retained and Ball-Retained Systems

There are two types of implant stabilization methods: bar-retained and ball-retained. For both, the denture is fabricated with gum-colored acrylic for the base to which porcelain (or acrylic) false teeth are attached. The denture necessitates, at a minimum, two implants for stabilization.

With the ball-retained system, each post holds an attachment (male or female) that fits into a corresponding attachment on the denture. These are sometimes called “stud attachment.”

With bar-retained dentures, a metal bar is anchored to two to five implants. The bar holds the clips that connect to the denture.

If you are currently wearing conventional dentures, take to us about superior options.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7787

Dental Crowns At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry In Royal Oak

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Restorative dentistry

Dental Crowns at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak Dental crowns have been used in dentistry for over 2000 years. There is evidence that the Etruscans experimented with crowns on teeth using ivory and bone as early as 700 B.C. By 200 A.D., they began using gold crowns to construct artificial teeth. Ancient Egyptians fashioned tooth replacements out of seashells and then hammered them into their gums. (Oral sedation, anyone?)

Porcelain crowns were first used in the 1800s. With the refining of metal casting methods in the 1900s, crown dentistry advanced significantly.

Today, crowns are strong and comfortable, and are made to match your surrounding teeth.

Dental crowns (also called caps) cover the entire visible portion of the tooth and are cemented in place. Crowns are used to strengthen teeth that have been worn down or weakened by decay or injury. Crowns are also used to restore the original shape of a tooth or solely to improve the appearance of a tooth.

The most common types of crowns are:

  • All-porcelain (ceramic)
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal
  • Gold

The material used is determined by several factors. If you suspect you need a crown, want to replace an old crown, or want to learn about other cosmetic dentistry procedures, call Dr. Steven Gustafson at 248-541-8770. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is located at 940 E 11 Mile Rd in Royal Oak. We have been serving patients in the Detroit area since 1984. We can recommend the best tooth restoration or cosmetic dentistry option for you.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 667

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

Avoid Bone Deterioration Following Extraction

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

Royal Oak Jaw Bone Deterioration Hello, friends of Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry! In today’s post, we will discuss jaw bone health.

Those tooth roots are important!

To remain healthy and dense, your jawbone needs to be continually stimulated by the pressure of chewing, biting, and talking. Each tooth has a root structure the extends into the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth function, it stimulates blood flow in the bone surrounding the root.

Have you had a tooth extracted?

In some cases, tooth extraction is the only possible procedure for people with tooth damage beyond repair. However, we make every effort to retain the root structure. When a tooth is extracted, the jaw bone that surrounded the initial root structure begins to recede.

A dental implant replaces both the root and the crown of an extracted tooth

Fortunately, tooth implants provide a new, artificial root that helps to keep the surrounding bone healthy and strong. A dental implant is composed of a substantial titanium post that replaces the original root and eventually integrates into the surrounding bone.

After the implant has been placed and the surrounding bone has healed and integrated with the implant, a post is inserted into the implant. The new artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the post. Implant restoration is a safe and effective treatment for tooth loss.

Are dental implants a good option for you?

For more details about dental implants, call Dr. Steven Gustafson at 248-541-8770. The friendly team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry provides world-class dental treatment for patients in Royal Oak and the surrounding areas.

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 693

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

Look Younger By Straightening Your Teeth

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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

The Unsung Heroes Of Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

forensic dentistry Royal Oak

In today’s post, we will veer a bit off the beaten path, so to speak, and review a fascinating dental specialty; forensic dentistry. The official term for the use of dentistry in criminal cases and post-mortem identification is forensic odontology. These experts are rarely recognized but play a crucial role in crime and disaster investigations.

Dental X-rays, dentures, and bite marks are all used to provide clues about the victim’s identity and/or the manner of death. A person’s teeth are as singular as fingerprints and can often tolerate forces such as fire, explosions, submersion in water, and natural decay without being destroyed.

Identifying One Victim

Identifying a victim through dental records is aided immensely when authorities have narrowed down a group of suspected victims to just a few people (or, ideally, just one) and can consult the dentists who had treated them. When the identity is completely unknown, a forensic dentist combs other databases such as those maintained by the armed forces and prisons.3

“Dental identifications are so much quicker and so much less expensive than DNA.” -Dr. Mark Bernstein, dentist and forensic dental consultant1

Identifying Hundreds of Victims

While identifying one victim of a homicide or accident can be somewhat manageable, natural disasters, plane crashes, and other large-scale tragedies are exponentially more complex.

According to Dr. Jeffrey Burkes, chief forensic dental consultant for the 9/11 attacks, over 140 dentists toiled to identify the fragments of remains that were recovered from the scene of the terrorist attacks. The identification effort was an intensely painstaking and complicated operation. First, the dentists were divided into four teams. The Go Team gathered evidence from the scene, the Antemortem Team analyzed existing dental records of assumed victims, the Postmortem Team X-rayed the retrieved dental evidence, and the Comparison Team compared the X-rays of the remains of anonymous corpses to the files of missing people presumed to have been at the scene.2

“Dentistry fulfills one of its most important social, moral, and professional obligations by applying its unique knowledge and expertise to the task of identifying countless persons who are tragic victims of fires, catastrophes, disasters, and homicides.”3

1Ashley Hayes, “How authorities identify a burned body,” CNN, February 13, 2013, http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/13/health/burned-body-id/, accessed February 20, 2017
2James Berry, Clayton Luz, Arlene Furlong, Craig Palmer, “Forensic Dentistry: Identifying the Victims of 9/11” Dental Practice Management, December 1, 2001,http://www.oralhealthgroup.com/features/forensic-dentistry-identifying-the-victims-of-9-11/, accessed February 20, 2017
3Dr. Vincent Funaro, “Charts, Radiographs, Study Models: A Forensic Trilogy, January 1, 2006, Dentistry Today, http://www.dentistrytoday.com/forensic-dentistry/1159-, accessed February 20, 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 7357

5 Smile Solutions at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Restorative dentistry, Teeth whitening

Aesthetic Dental Transformations in Royal Oak Many Royal Oak professionals, students, and retirees are enjoying the lasting benefits of aesthetic dentistry. A sensational smile not only looks great, it makes you feel great!

Start the Day With a Smile

When you first look in the mirror in the morning while brushing those gleaming babies, you remember; “Oh yeah, I fixed my teeth and they look extraordinary!”

When you smile at old friends or make new ones, you are happy to show off your new unforgettable grin. When you are in a professional setting speaking with colleagues or clients, you feel poised and self-confident.

We have talked about different cosmetic and restorative dental procedures available in previous blog articles, but let’s review the most common.

Versatile Veneers

Veneers are glass-like, wafer-thin covers that adhere to teeth. Porcelain veneers are durable and have the translucency of natural teeth. They correct chips, stains and misaligned teeth that do not require orthodontia. There are several companies that fabricate veneers. One of the notable brand names is Lumineers.

Corrective Crowns

Crowns correct more extensive tooth dilemmas. They are used in a variety of situations such as the final restoration following a root canal or to restore teeth compromised by decay, injury, or periodontitis.

Impressive Implants for Total Restoration

A dental implant is often the right replacement for a missing tooth. They are becoming a popular alternative to a dental bridge or partial dentures, especially among middle-aged professionals and men and women in the public eye.

Bridge the Gap

Bridges are another strong, natural-looking replacement for one or more missing teeth. They have been used with success for many years.

Lighter and Brighter

Professional tooth whitening in your dentist’s office is the least invasive and fastest way to brighten your smile several shades. One of the most popular systems is called Zoom!

If you are interested in any of these treatments, schedule a consultation at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry today. Even if you are a bit hesitant, remember: discussing possible solutions with a cosmetic dentist does not require a commitment of any kind. It is merely a relaxed way to get the most reliable information.

We are waiting for your call. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can be reached 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 886

Overlapping Teeth Can Be Corrected for a Beautiful Smile

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

how to fix overlapping teeth Royal Oak

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we provide advanced cosmetic dentistry. That means we repair all types of smile flaws.

Overlapping teeth are fairly common. And while many men and women don’t mind a slight overlap, others feel self-conscious and would like it corrected.

What causes teeth to overlap?

Genetics or thumbsucking as a toddler can lead to overlapping teeth. Of course, some children have teeth that just came in that way.

The mouth may be too small to fit all the teeth appropriately. Or having upper and lower jaws that don’t fit together can be a factor. In addition, an injury can knock the upper and lower jaw out of alignment. In some cases, missing teeth or extra teeth (such as wisdom teeth) can bring about an overlap.

Unfortunately, overlapping teeth can cause oral problems.

When does it become important to fix overlapping teeth?

  • Overlapping teeth cause a lisp or
  • make chewing or speaking difficult,
  • creates jaw pain,
  • trigger tooth grinding or clenching,
  • and cause the person to bite their inner cheeks.

Certainly, there are benefits to fixing overlapping teeth in addition to cosmetic reasons.

How can you fix overlapping teeth? There are several methods for correcting overlapping teeth. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Discuss them with your dentist or orthodontist.

Are traditional braces the only way to fix overlapping teeth?

There are a few different types of braces available for adjusting overlapping teeth:

  • Clear aligners
  • Invisalign
  • Traditional braces

How long does it take to correct overlapping teeth?

The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the overlap and other factors. However, in most cases, it can take at least one year to fix overlapping teeth, depending on the treatment.

Are overlapping teeth causing you oral problems?

If overlapping teeth cause complications such as tooth or jaw pain, difficulty speaking clearly, or damaging oral habits, it is smart to consider correcting. Correcting overlapping teeth can help eliminate bad habits like tooth grinding, clenching the teeth, and biting the cheeks.

Another thing to keep in mind is that teeth continue to shift with age. Therefore, if you correct an overlap as a child or teen, you will likely need a retainer to maintain the teeth’s position.

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8614

Dental Problem? There Is Always A Solution!

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Categories: Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry, Teeth whitening

smile makeover cost Royal Oak

There is no doubt that a healthy, pleasing smile positively influences one’s life. It lets us convey confidence and friendliness in business and social settings. A beautiful healthy smile also impacts our personal relationships. When we smile, we appear (and feel!) younger and more attractive.

Research has shown that smiling also helps reduce stress, increase productivity, and express empathy.

But if you are troubled by dental problems, then you may feel insecure about your smile. A smile makeover is a solution to your issues.

When you visit Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, you will find Dr. Gustafson to be very empathetic about how you feel about your teeth. Together the two of you make a plan to help you gain the sensational smile that you have been missing in your life.

One question to consider before going in is: What changes do you want to see in your smile?

There is no need to feel helpless. There is always a solution. Straightening teeth, fixing chips, replacing missing teeth, re-shaping teeth, and bleaching teeth are only some of the changes that Dr. Gustafson can perform. If you have a problem, your dentist will help you find the solution.

If you are worried about the cost of a smile makeover, remember there is a way to make it happen. When you and your dentist decide on your cosmetic dental smile makeover plan, budgeting becomes part of it. Together, you will figure out how to complete your smile makeover in a timely, economical manner.

If you feel that a smile makeover can improve your life, book an appointment with Dr. Gustafson at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak by calling 248-541-8770. We will give you the brilliant smile that you can be proud of.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7037