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Is Perfect Possible?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Restorative dentistry, Teeth whitening

cosmetic dentistry

Are you considering a smile makeover? Are you skeptical of promises of a “perfect smile” or a “celebrity smile?” Let’s address the most popular cosmetic dental procedures and the results that can be expected.

Composite Veneers

The application of porcelain veneers at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can remedy several aesthetic dental issues and is commonly a better answer than dental bonding.

Veneers can repair chips, cracks, minor tooth misalignment, tooth discoloration, unattractive tooth shape, and disproportionate tooth size. Can a porcelain veneer create a perfect tooth? While a veneer cannot fix a decayed tooth, it can turn an unappealing tooth into an aesthetically perfect tooth.

Tooth Bleaching

Tooth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment that dramatically improves a smile. However, some tooth whitening dentists will guarantee fantastic results for any patient that wants a whiter smile.

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak, we only recommend tooth bleaching for patients that are good candidates for the process. If you have several crowns in the front of your mouth, or gums that have receded, conventional tooth-whitening may not improve your smile.

Call 248-541-8770 to schedule a tooth-whitening consultation.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

Would you like to turn back the clock to your pre-filling smile? It is possible with white fillings at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. To get an idea of how the inside of your mouth would look without unattractive metal amalgam fillings, have someone without any fillings open their mouth. Do you remember when your mouth looked like that?

These are just a few of the cosmetic dental solutions that create stunning smiles for our patients. Call us today!

 

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

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Categories: General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Restorative dentistry

gum disease treatment Royal Oak

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

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

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

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

The researchers concluded:

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

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

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

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

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

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

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Royalty At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

porcelain crown Royal Oak

When Dr. Steven Gustafson crowns one of our patients, the coronation is a celebration of a stronger smile.

The necessity of a dental crown is usually readily apparent. Based on how much tooth is available to hold in a filling, sometimes a crown is needed to add more support and to keep the tooth from falling apart or breaking. Crowns are also necessary as a sturdy support for dental bridges.

A crown restores your tooth to normal shape, size and strength, and allows it to resume its proper place as a team player with the other teeth.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, located at 940 E 11 Mile Rd in Royal Oak, Michigan 48067, opened their doors in 1984 and has been serving patients throughout Michigan with extraordinary efficiency, expertise and personal attention since 1984. You could be our next royal to smile and wave for the paparazzi.

Consult with Dr. Gustafson to find out if you are a candidate for innovative restorative procedures meant to increase the life of your precious permanent teeth such as a fabulous crown. Keep in mind that crowns come in a variety of strong, reliable materials. Matching the natural color of your teeth increases the beauty of your smile. Gold crowns are incredibly strong and have the “bling” factor. But there are certainly other options.

In addition to restorative services, we would love to meet with you about cleanings, cosmetic services, teeth whitening, braces, veneers, and other smile makeover possibilities.

We are equipped to offer general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, dental implants and a long list of other procedures. Schedule your visit today with our friendly staff at 248-541-8770.

A crown can return your tooth to all its former glory as a smiling, glowing, expert chewing machine.

 

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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Should Teens See a General or Pediatric Dentist?

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when should my child transition from a pediatric to general dentist? Detroit

Some parents in the Detroit area bring their child to a pediatric dentist. Others use a general or family dentist for every member of their household.

What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?

Pediatric dentists have specialized training to treat infants, young children and teens. They use special dental tools created for smaller mouths. Some pediatric dentists have training in child psychology which can help make children feel comfortable during dental treatment.

When should my child transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist? Some parents transition their son or daughter to a general dentist as soon as all their child’s permanent teeth come in. Other parents have their children see a pediatric dentist until their late teens.

Does your teen feel comfortable at a pediatric dental practice?

Sometimes, when a child hits their early teen years, they feel uncomfortable at a pediatric dental practice. This is especially true if the office is furnished and geared toward toddlers and pre-teens. In this case, the teen may choose the right time to transition.

Above all, it’s important that your child feels comfortable at the dentist. If your son or daughter starts feeling like they are too old to see a pediatric dentist, it’s time to switch to a general dentist.

We understand the oral health needs of your teenager.

Remember that the team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is willing and able to address adolescent dental needs. We are happy to treat your teen through their adolescent years.

What dental issues should I be watching for during adolescence?

First off, pay attention to your adolescent’s nutrition. As children become more independent, they start making more of their own food choices. If you visit any Royal Oak-area middle school or high school during lunch, you will notice that some teens drink soda and energy drinks. Most of those teens most likely drank milk during elementary school. Make sure your gets enough calcium to keep their teeth strong. Vaping and smoking take a toll on physical and dental health. Unfortunately, they are too common among the teen group in the Detroit area.

Your dentist is an essential member of your teen’s healthcare team.

Your dentist can help you understand how your diet and lifestyle influence your oral health. If your adolescent struggles with an eating disorder, a dentist can address any related dental issues. If your teen is undergoing orthodontic treatment, your dentist can monitor their teeth closely during a time when it’s more difficult to keep teeth clean and free of tooth decay

Regardless of when you transition your teen to a general dentist, make sure they see a dentist at least twice a year. Continue to monitor their oral hygiene practices and set a good example. Watch out for destructive habits. Furthermore, make sure they wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports.

The team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has been serving families in the Detroit area since 1984. We value the relationships we have developed with our patients and their families. If you are looking for an experienced, caring family and general dentist in the Royal Oak area, give us a call 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

ArticleID 8616

Use Flex Account Funds For Dental Care

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Gum Disease, Teeth whitening

Use Flex Account Funds for Royal Oak Dentistry If you have money in your Royal Oak flexible spending account you may want to schedule some cosmetic dentistry before the deadline. Remember, you lose any funds left over after the plan year ends. Why not improve your smile with tax-free dollars?

Even a small change can make a big difference in the appearance of your teeth. You might consider getting a veneer for a chipped tooth or replacing a broken crown. Maybe you want to straighten your teeth with braces or replace amalgam fillings with ones that blend with your natural teeth. Tooth whitening is quick and easy and benefits even the most attractive smiles.

Perhaps aesthetic dentistry is not your first priority. Maybe you have a more pressing dental need such as a cavity that is bothering you or swollen gums. Don’t let these problems get worse and possibly more expensive to treat.

Call 248-541-8770 to book a consultation at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak. We are located at 940 E 11 Mile Rd.

Steven Gustafson is one of the most sought-after Royal Oak dentists and stays at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry techniques and technology. A radiant smile is possible for anyone in the Detroit area, regardless of issues such as tetracycline stains, periodontal disease, or missing teeth.

If you are planning to use flex account funds for Detroit dentistry, make sure you check your employer’s guidelines for eligible cosmetic or restorative dental procedures.

With a smile makeover at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, what will your “after” photo look like?

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 969

Who’s Afraid Of The Big, Bad…Dentist?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

sleep dentistry Detroit

People that experience dental phobia (Dentophobia) may take comfort in the fact that it is a fairly common diagnosable mental condition. At least they know they are not alone and that the medical community takes it seriously.

Phobias like Pteromerhanophobia: (the fear of flying) and Acrophobibia (the fear of heights) can be problematic, but a person can live a perfectly healthy life without getting on a 747 or riding an elevator to the top of the Chrysler Building.

A person who suffers from dental phobia or dental anxiety is at risk of entering a vicious cycle of declining oral health.

Fear causes the person to avoid dental checkups for years. When a minor dental dilemma (like a tiny cavity) progresses until it reaches a nerve and creates pain, the patient is forced to visit the dentist.

At this point, the required therapy is a major procedure (possibly an extraction followed by a dental implant). The procedure reinforces the dental phobia and, once again, the patient stays away from the dentist’s office. That’s how some men and women end up losing teeth at a relatively young age.

Experts believe that the scope of dental phobia may be as high as one in four men and women. Are you one of them?

At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we want to help apprehensive patients successfully overcome or at least manage their fear so they can endure twice-yearly checkups and cleanings. Preventive dentistry is the most effective way to protect teeth and gums.

If you haven’t had a dental exam in a while, please schedule a consultation. You can speak with Dr. Gustafson about the many options available including behavioral therapy, cognitive therapy, and conscious sedation (sleep dentistry).

If you dread going to the dentist, there is hope. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we have successfully treated many patients just like you. We invite you to request a consultation today.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7303

There’s No Substitute for a Toothbrush and Floss

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Restorative dentistry

The Gift Of Oral Health In Detroit

Many dental patients wonder why, with all the developments in dentistry, we still send you home with a complimentary toothbrush and roll of floss.

The Most Important Tools to Keep Your Smile Healthy

It’s true, they do seem a little old-fashioned in our high-tech world, but don’t let their simple design fool you. These tools are your best friends to prevent tooth decay, plaque build-up, and gum disease for dental patients!

Brush and Floss Every Day

When done properly and consistently, brushing and flossing are an important part of everyday oral hygiene.

Brushing, which should be done at least twice a day, can be done effectively with any type of toothbrush. There is no need to pay a bundle for a fancy electric toothbrush. Just brush your teeth in small, circular motions for 2-3 minutes making certain to reach all the surfaces and nooks and crannies.

Flossing should be done once a day and is vital for reaching the areas where a toothbrush cannot. As we eat, fragments of food get caught between our teeth. If it’s not cleaned off, it allows bacteria to thrive. The bacteria and film create plaque which hurts both teeth and gums. Flossing daily removes bits of food before they turn into plaque.

I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson, and I want to help you enjoy your dental visits and adore your smile.

Our friendly staff loves sending our patients away with a new toothbrush and floss, but we also find it rewarding to see our patients gain renewed confidence with a smile makeover.

We’d love to answer any questions you have about cosmetic dentistry such as tooth whitening, veneers, dental implants, or any other dental health topic.

Give us a call 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

 

ArticleID 3804

Great Reasons to Floss Your Teeth

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Teeth whitening

Three Great Reasons to Floss Your Teeth by Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry

Flossing is a bit of a chore. It takes a little extra time, and if you haven’t flossed in a while, it can even be painful.

It’s no wonder our team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry is constantly reminding our patients to ‘brush and floss!’

Flossing is vital, You’ll never hear one of us say ‘don’t worry about the flossing.’ It just isn’t going to happen for two critical reasons. Here they are:

1. Bad Breath

I knew I could catch your attention with this first one. Bad breath is something we all worry about. It’s part of our ‘appearance, and we are all aware of how that can impact our relationships.

When we meet new individuals, speak with others in close quarters, or greet a partner, bad breath is on our minds. We worry about how bad breath affects first impressions.

It makes sense, then, that bad breath would be one of the things you might worry about.

Flossing is a great way to help you avert bad breath.

Flossing helps prevent plaque buildup between your teeth. It also helps flush out pockets of bacteria. Together, plaque and bacteria can create bad breath.

To minimize your chances of being caught with bad breath, floss every day.

2. Cavities

When bacteria is allowed to concentrate on your teeth, cavities can occur. Plaque buildup is a concentration of bacteria. When plaque is allowed to remain between your teeth it gives bacteria a chance to destroy enamel and damage your teeth. Cavities are damage to your teeth caused by bacteria.

Flossing gets between your teeth where your brush can’t get and gets rid of plaque buildup. It also loosens pockets of bacteria that can be removed with a quick rinse.

Flossing will help you keep plaque and bacteria from developing between your teeth.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry recommends you floss your teeth every time you brush your teeth. At the very least, we encourage you to floss every day before you go to bed. Once a day is your minimum, and nighttime is a good time to floss.

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7780

When Style And Oral Health Collide

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Teeth whitening

When Style And Oral Health Collide in Royal Oak

Oral piercing is a popular form of body art in Royal Oak, but just because it’s popular doesn’t mean it’s safe. I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson. When my patients ask me about the safety of oral piercings, I make sure they examine the possible dangerous consequences.

First, patients should know that infection is always a major concern with any piercing, but because the mouth is the perfect environment for breeding bacteria, oral piercings are especially problematic. Your capacity to chew, swallow, and speak can also be impaired by an oral piercing.

Oral piercings can lead to an increase in saliva flow and, possibly, excessive drooling, something my dental patients generally want to avoid. (I don’t know anyone who thinks drooling is attractive.) It’s also critical to know that chipped or cracked teeth, damage to dental fillings, and metal sensitivity are other possible issues.

Another serious risk associated with piercings that should concern people is nerve damage. Many people experience temporary numbness after a piercing, but for some, the damage is acute and sensations never return. An injured nerve can also impact facial movements as well as your sense of taste.

Do you really want to risk looking like a stroke victim for the rest of your life?

If you’ve read through this and still want to elect a tongue bar or lip piercing, please communicate with your dentist so you can consider the safest decision possible for your dental health.

If you are looking for an experienced dentist in the Royal Oak area to depend on for accurate information and the highest quality care, we welcome you to Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. Call 248-541-8770 today to schedule an appointment. We offer dental implants, dentures, Invisalign, and more!

We may even convince you that safe, effective cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening, veneers, or bonding would be a smarter and safer way to express your personality and boost your confidence. Give us a call today!

 

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 3640

Affordable Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry, Gum Disease

A perceived lack of affordable dentistry is one of the primary reasons many people in our community avoid going to the dentist. However, the truth is that affordable dentistry is available in Royal Oak at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

We provide top-quality services at competitive prices. Whether you need cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, or dentures, we can help you.

Of course, the best way to keep your dental costs low is through proper dental hygiene and preventative dentistry. We work with you to keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. If dilemmas arise, they are discovered early at your six-month check-up. A small filling is always better for your wallet (and smile!) than a root canal and dental crown.

Ask Us About Financing

Ask us about financing options. Our friendly staff can review your dental insurance (if you have it) and discuss payment planning to help you afford your dental care.

Affordable dentistry is available to everyone in the Royal Oak community. Give the friendly staff at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry a call at 248-541-8770 to learn how we can provide you and your family with affordable dentistry.

Our office is located at 940 E 11 Mile Rd, in Royal Oak.

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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