Pregnancy and Oral Health

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

 

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Dental Questions? We Have Answers.

Ferndale cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Hello! My name is Dr. Steven Gustafson and my dental practice, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, has been serving the Royal Oak area since 1984.

If you have questions about oral health, cosmetic dentistry, preventative dentistry, bite issues, tooth implants, oral sedation, professional teeth bleaching, or invisible braces, come to Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry for answers.

My friendly staff has helped me establish an atmosphere of active listening. We enjoy getting to know our patients and determining each patient’s unique dental needs. We want to understand your dental goals and challenges and help you understand the hows and whys of recommended treatment.

Many of our new dental patients ask us about cosmetic dentistry treatment such as teeth whitening, smile makeovers, and dental implants. We would love to communicate with you about these services.

Dental Care For Every Member of the Family

If you have youngsters, it is important for you to make decisions about protective sealants and fluoride supplements. If you have older children, it is helpful to discuss braces, sports mouthguards, and cavities prevention. If you are not satisfied with your smile, we would like to introduce you to the latest in cosmetic dentistry. If you are missing teeth, dental implants may be the optimal solution. If you have a family member with a chronic illness, we can counsel you about the impact their condition has on oral health. Oral cancer screenings are important for patients of all ages.

Thank you for visiting our dental blog and taking the time to learn more about Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. Call today to schedule a consultation.

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

 

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5 Smile Solutions at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

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

 

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Aesthetic Dentistry Solves Difficult Oral Problems

solve tough dental problems Royal Oak

Have you ever been told that your smile is beyond repair? That may not be true. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we perform dental miracles every day. Here are some tough dental problems we routinely solve:

Tough Problem 1: Insufficient Bone for Dental Implant
Solution: Bone Grafting

As a replacement for a missing tooth, a dental implant has many benefits as compared to a dental bridge. However, there must be adequate bone to support the titanium post (screw) that is surgically implanted.

Many implant patients need some level of bone grafting and the procedure has a high success rate. Disinfected, processed donor bone is inserted at the implant site where the bone needs structural augmentation. The grafting material is in granular form that can be packed into the contours. It generates growth, and eventually, the patient’s newly-generated bone replaces the donor bone material.

If you have had another dentist tell you that you don’t have enough bone to place an implant post, talk to Dr. Gustafson. The team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has performed many bone grafting procedures for dental implant placement.

Tough Problem 2: Severe Tooth Loss
Solution: Full Mouth Restoration

If it feels like your dental dilemmas are beyond repair because you have few or no teeth left, take heart. Regardless of the cause—chemotherapy, recreational drug use, eating disorder, extreme mouth injury, disability, inadequate oral hygiene, or simply poor overall health—there is hope.

Full mouth reconstruction can restore your previously healthy, pleasing smile or give you the beautiful smile you never had. Patients who have full mouth restoration regain their confidence to smile, eat, and speak normally.

Full mouth restoration is composed of a combination of dental procedures as necessary according to the patient’s particular situation. These can include dental implants, implant-supported bridges, orthodontia, crowns, inlays/onlays, dental bonding, gum contouring, soft tissue grafts, and teeth whitening.

By listening carefully, asking the right questions, communicating clearly, and counseling with you, Dr. Gustafson can fully analyze your seemingly impossible dental dilemma and furnish a solution. Call us today at 248-541-8770.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Dental Problem? There Is Always A Solution!

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

 

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Treatment For Sensitive Teeth

Ferndale cosmetic dental and tooth implants

For those individuals who feel pain when you sip your morning coffee or who cringe each time you brush or floss, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is here for you. Dr.Steven Gustafson has been treating this common issue since 1984.

Daily Oral Hygiene

The first line of defense against tooth sensitivity is proper oral hygiene. Incorrect brushing and over-brushing can lead to receding gums, which results in the exposure of microscopic tubules in the dentin. When these tubules are exposed, acidic, hot, cold, and sticky foods can then reach the nerve cells in the teeth causing discomfort (who are we kidding—it’s pain).

Need a Refresher on Brushing?

Here in our Royal Oak dentistry practice, Dr.Gustafson can figure out if your brushing style is contributing to your tooth sensitivity and get you on your way to proper oral care habits. Our dental hygienists can also give you a refresher course on proper brushing and flossing. While you’re at it, schedule a professional dental cleaning.

Talk to Dr. Gustafson About Tooth Sensitivity

Dr. Gustafson usually recommends an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste that diminishes tooth pain after several applications. However, some patients may need in-office procedures such as fluoride gel treatments.

Don’t worry if you have sensitive teeth and want to have your teeth whitened. Dr. Gustafson can determine which professional tooth whitening or at-home whitening systems will work for you.

Call our dental office today at 248-541-8770 to get relief for your sensitive teeth. 

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we provide general and cosmetic dentistry for patients in the Royal Oak area. If you are looking for a modern, comfortable dental office with a friendly, competent team, you will find it at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

 

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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6 Ways To Improve Your Smile

dental payment plans Berkley

Who would say no to a more pleasing smile? I am guessing no one, and now with all of the amazing cosmetic dentistry procedures available from Detroit area cosmetic dentists, most men and women can get the smile they want. Here is a quick look at some of the most popular treatments.

1. Teeth whitening is a very common procedure used to lighten discolored teeth. This quick and easy treatment is usually done in the dentist office, and the results can be extremely dramatic.

2. Bonding is a popular treatment that uses a dental composite that resembles enamel. This material is applied to the surface of the teeth, sculpted into the desired shape, and then hardened and polished.

3. Tooth reshaping is a simple way to improve the appearance of your smile. It involves removing part of the enamel and can be used to fix small chips or to change the length or position of teeth.

4. Veneers are custom-made porcelain coverings that are very thin. They are bonded to the teeth and can be used to close gaps or cover discolored teeth.

5. For most patients, dental implants are the best way to replace a missing tooth.

6. And finally, there is the cosmetic dental smile makeover. A smile makeover uses a combination of treatments to get dental patients the smiles they want.

Hi. I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson, a local Royal Oak dentist, and I want my patients to have the best oral health possible. I also want them to look their best. My practice, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, offers the following services:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
orthodontics

If you are in the Royal Oak area and are in need of dental care or have cosmetic dentistry questions, please give us a call at 248-541-8770.

We hope to hear from 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

 

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Relax in Comfort and Style at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry In Royal Oak

Ferndale cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Thank you for visiting the Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry dental blog. Today, I’d like to discuss an important but often-overlooked feature in our practice: the modern dental chair. Did you know that dental chairs don’t come from your local Royal Oak furniture store?

An Overlooked but Critical Piece of Dental Equipment

Dental chairs were created especially for the comfort of patients and dental providers alike. Dentists throughout the known world are excited about the recent innovations in seat technology.

Steven Gustafson DDS at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has been leaning over patients since 1984. The adjustable seat has saved Dr. Gustafson from discomfort as services are rendered such as orthodontics and dental implants.

We’ve Been Pampering Patients Since 1984

Royal Oak patients have been lying back in Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry’s comfortable seats since 1984. The cushioned comfort has pampered our patients while allowing Steven Gustafson to comfortably perform important procedures like dentures, general dentistry, or cosmetic dentistry. Hurray for technology!

Visit Practice in Royal Oak

Visit our office at 940 E 11 Mile Rd Royal Oak, Michigan 48067 and enjoy a spectacular view of our ceiling from any one of our singular dental chairs. Most Michigan dental practices have them and there is probably not much of a difference between theirs and ours.

Discover What Sets Us Apart

What sets us apart is our personal service, professionalism, experience, and competitive pricing. With all the overhead that has to be paid for: X-ray equipment, procedure supplies, utilities, and, of course, our wonderful chairs, we’re pleased to keep the price of preventative and cosmetic dentistry reasonable for our friends and neighbors in Royal Oak, Michigan.

Call our office today at 248-541-8770 to find out if dental restoration, braces, crowns, veneers, tooth implants, sedation, teeth whitening, or any dental procedure is something we can provide for you.

We are proud to offer cosmetic dentistry, teeth cleaning, and Invisalign clear braces in a comfortable position, in a comfortable chair.

Feels Like Coming Home- Dr. Steven Gustafson

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Mouthwash Facts for Royal Oak Dental Patients

Mouthwash Facts In Royal Oak

Hi, I am Dr. Steven Gustafson.  Thanks for visiting my Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry blog. In today’s post I would like to discuss mouthwash. Many Michigan residents use mouthwash to freshen their breath and help retard tooth decay. Mouthwash should never be used exclusively though, good oral hygiene starts with thorough tooth brushing and flossing. Mouthwash is an optional tool in your dental hygiene tool box.

It is important for Michigan residents to know what kind of mouthwash they are using. Some mouthwashes merely mask bad breath while others help reduce the bacteria that causes plaque and bad breath.

If you are one of the Royal Oak residents that suffers from bad breath it is important to choose a mouthwash that contains ingredients that help prevent tooth decay such as fluoride. But Michigan men and women also need to use caution when using mouthwashes because many of the ingredients are dangerous when the recommended amount of mouthwash is exceeded.

Some of the poisonous components are chlorhexidine gluconate, ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, and methyl salicylate. If you experience throat pain, vomiting, headache, or abdominal pain after using mouthwash, seek medical help immediately. The National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) can answer questions about mouthwash ingredients.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we want everyone to have great-smelling breath, but to use caution when treating their bad breath. Make sure to read your mouthwash label and follow all instructions given.

In addition to preventative dental care, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers a wide range of cosmetic dentistry procedures. If you are a resident anxious to have a whiter, brighter smile talk to Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry about teeth whitening. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry also provides cosmetic dentistry and teeth cleaning.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry we have been improving the smiles of residents in Royal Oak, Detroit and the surrounding areas since 1984. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

 

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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Tooth Whitening: In-Office vs. DIY

teeth whitening Royal Oak

If you are planning to whiten your teeth, the vital first step is to choose a whitening method. It may seem like there are a multitude of options, but it’s important to remember that they all employ a peroxide-based whitening solution. The difference lies in the strength of the bleaching solution and method of delivery. In-office whitening procedures generally use a solution with a relatively higher concentration of peroxide. In other words, it is stronger.

Let’s look at the pros and cons of DIY and in-office teeth whitening.

At-Home Teeth Whitening Advantages

  • Generally less expensive
  • Doesn’t require a trip to your Royal Oak dentist
  • May cause less tooth sensitivity and pain

At-Home Teeth Whitening Disadvantages

  • Takes longer to achieve desired level of lightening
  • Whitening appliances don’t protect gum tissue
  • The solution must be applied many times over a period of weeks

In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening Advantages

  • Same-day results
  • Administered by a dental professional
  • Gum tissue is protected
  • You may be able to pay for it with HSA or flex spending

In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening Disadvantages

  • More expensive

Did you know that in order to maintain the brightness achieved from an in-office teeth whitening treatment, a patient must follow up with at-home touch-ups? Therefore, a combination of in-office and DIY methods is often the most effective solution.

A note about non-professional teeth bleaching kiosks:

A few years ago during the height of the tooth-whitening craze, teeth whitening kiosks started popping up in Detroit area malls. Though some have closed their doors, a few remain in business. Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry urges patients to avoid these establishments. There is little regulatory oversight and customers have no guarantee of the safety of their services or the qualifications of their employees. As always, it is vital to only trust your smile to dental professionals.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry advises patients to meet with their Royal Oak dentist before starting any tooth bleaching regimen. An oral examination will help your dentist know if tooth whitening will deliver the results you are seeking. This is especially important when you have tetracycline stains or multiple restorations.

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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