Chipped Tooth? No Need To Panic

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

7 Ways To Fix A Chipped Tooth

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

Super Smiles Have Strong Enamel

Royal Oak dental financing

Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance in the body? It’s true! This substance, found on the outer surface of your teeth, truly should last a lifetime. But just because it’s super substantial doesn’t mean you don’t have to work to take care of it.

Here are some helpful tips for keeping enamel healthy.

1. Pick the right foods for enamel health. It’s no secret that soft drinks damage your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are also other culinary culprits that can do a lot of harm. Sticky, chewy candies should be avoided. Chewing ice is a no-no. And don’t use your teeth as tools. Take a minute to grab some scissors before you rip open that package with your incisors.

On the flip side, foods with calcium can neutralize acid in your mouth and protect your enamel. So, enjoy your dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt!

2. Avoid vigorous brushing and use a soft brush. Also, it’s best to brush about an hour after eating, because foods, especially acidic ones, can soften the enamel, thus making it more prone to damage from brushing. If your teeth are discolored or yellowish, you may feel you need to brush harder. Instead, consider teeth whitening and communicate with your dentist.

3. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, the stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so it is critical to speak with your Royal Oak doctor about treatment.

4. Talk to your dentist about dry mouth and tooth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major dilemma for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can also wear it down. Make sure your dentist is aware if you notice either of these issues.

Hi, my name is Dr. Steven Gustafson. I want my patients to have the best oral health possible, and enamel health is an essential component. I also love helping my patients achieve the remarkable smile they want with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as dental bonding, veneers, invisible braces, tooth-colored fillings, and dental implants.

My practice, Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, is currently accepting new patients. Give us a call at 248-541-8770 to make an appointment!

The following website was used as source material for this blog:
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/healthy-teeth-2/tooth-enamel-damage, accessed on September 18, 2013

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 7132

What Can Dental Veneers Do For Your Smile?

what is a dental veneer? Royal Oak

Many people are unhappy with the appearance of their teeth. It could be a chip or crack. Perhaps they have yellowed over the years.

You Don’t Have to Live With Chips and Cracks

You don’t have to live with imperfections in your smile. In today’s article, we consider one of these solutions: dental veneers. At Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, we provide veneers for myriad tooth dilemmas.

In a perfect world, each of your prized teeth would stay healthy, strong, and sparkling white from childhood to your golden years. However, our teeth work hard for us and take some bumps along the way.

Most Michigan men and women will need to restore a tooth at some point. And if you only need one tooth restored, you’re fortunate. Some individuals need a restoration every few years.

And there are also people whose teeth are healthy, but they were never attractive to begin with.

What are Dental Veneers?

Traditional veneers come in the form of tooth-colored “shells” that are fitted to the teeth. Each veneer is tailored to one individual tooth and is affixed permanently to the front. Once placed, it covers the entire visible portion of the tooth.

A veneer can be used when the underlying tooth is structurally sound and free of tooth decay. 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.

Veneers are Custom-Matched to Your Teeth

Veneers are constructed with dental porcelain or composite resin. Many individuals find veneers appealing because they can create a whiter smile. A veneer can also protect a tooth from damage.

The latest veneers are thinner and stronger than ever. Your dentist only has to remove a minuscule bit of tooth structure to allow for the thickness of the veneer.

An Attractive Smile Increases Your Confidence

Plenty of individuals have chipped or stained teeth. When it comes to a professional setting, appearances, and first impressions are critical, and that starts with a smile.

Veneers can create a truly dazzling smile. That is why they are becoming very popular amongst young professionals especially those who have teeth that have darkened or have a superficial crack or small chip.

If you want to be more confident in professional and social settings, make your smile a priority.

What are the Benefits of Veneers?

Let’s recap the advantages of dental veneers:

  • They do not stain easily
  • They are custom-made to fit the tooth
  • A veneer can correct a misshapen tooth
  • They can significantly upgrade your smile
  • They preserve more healthy tooth structure as compared to dental crowns
  • A veneer can protect the front of the tooth from a chip or crack

If you are interested in veneers or another type of cosmetic dental procedure, the team at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry can help.

 

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 8416

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

 

ArticleID 4766

What Can Fluoride Do For You?

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Hello, and welcome to Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. Today’s post focuses on fluoride: ‘What is it, exactly, and why is it so beneficial to your dental health?’

The Miracle Mineral

Fluoride is a mineral, plain and simple. Fluoride occurs naturally in different foods as well as in water. Many adjust the fluoride content of their municipal water. Fluoride is also added to dental care products. This makes it possible for you to apply fluoride to your teeth when you brush your teeth or use mouth rinses.

And why would you want to put fluoride on your teeth? Because it will help to prevent decay, of course! Fluoride does this by giving the teeth increased resistance against the acid attacks brought on by plaque bacteria as well as sugar in the mouth.

Essential for Young Teeth

Fluoride is especially vital for kids. Between the ages of 6 months and 16 years old, both the primary and the permanent teeth come in, therefore fluoride exposure is extremely beneficial for creating a strong foundation for lifelong oral health.

But, stay tuned, adults: the enamel-strengthening benefits of topical fluoride are available to you as well! In addition to the oral care products mentioned previously, adults can get a boost of this miracle mineral during routine dental cleanings at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry.

I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson and I have a full-service dental practice in Royal Oak. Helping my dental patients maintain ideal dental health is critical for me, and so is helping them achieve the smile they want through cosmetic dentistry procedures such as veneers, teeth whitening and complete smile makeovers.

My practice has been serving the Detroit area since 1984, and we would like you to be our next satisfied patient. Please contact us at 248-541-8770 so we can make an appointment for you.

Source:
http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/fluoride-treatment, accessed on September 18, 2013

 

Contact Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry:

248-541-8770

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

940 E 11 Mile Rd
Royal Oak, Michigan
48067

 

ArticleID 5449

7 Steps For A Healthy Smile

Detroit Extreme Smile Makeover

 “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Benjamin Franklin coined this phrase as advice for fire safety. However, like all timeless quotes, it applies to many more characteristics of modern Royal Oak life, particularly dental health.

Keeping your smile beautiful and healthy is done most effectively with preventative measures. Some vital guidelines are highlighted here.

1. Make a habit of brushing your teeth. Do it twice a day for 2 minutes. Be sure to use an ADA approved toothpaste and toothbrush.

2. Don’t forget the floss! Flossing between your teeth daily will do wonders for your teeth and keep your gums healthy too.

3. Wear a protective mouthguard when participating in an activity where your mouth could possibly be damaged.

4. Don’t smoke. As if you needed yet another reason not to!

5. Skip piercing your lips, tongue, cheek, or any other part of your mouth that someone decided you should shove a metal bar through. Piercings put you at greater risk for chipped teeth, infection and nerve damage. It’s a perilous fashion that you’ll want to avoid.

6. Refrain from snacks that have a lot of sugar or starch.

7. Schedule regular dental visits, of course!

My name is Dr. Steven Gustafson
. Helping my dental patients establish good habits is important to me, and so is helping them achieve the smile they want with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as veneers, teeth whitening and complete smile makeovers.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry has been serving the Royal Oak area since 1984. If you are in the market for an excellent dentist, we invite you to contact us at 248-541-8770 so we can make an appointment 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 4625

Cosmetic Dentistry: Gum Contouring

Cosmetic Dentistry: Gum Contouring In Royal Oak

If you are a regular visitor to our blog here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry, you have probably read many articles on cosmetic dentistry procedures. Steven Gustafson is a master of smile makeovers.

Dental bonding, crowns, and porcelain veneers https://gmdentistry.com/porcelain-veneers-royal-oak-mi/can take care of teeth that are chipped, broken, or misshapen.

Our Berkley, Birmingham, and Ferndale patients with stained or dull teeth can have a sparkly white smile with teeth whitening. For ordinary cavities, there are tooth-colored fillings, inlays, and onlays.

Dental implants are gaining popularity in Detroit among dental patients who want to restore missing teeth. If your teeth are misaligned, there are a number of orthodontic options here at Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry in Royal Oak.

What if your cosmetic dental problem has to do with your gums? Are you one of the many Detroit residents whose gums are too long, too short, or uneven? There is a solution for gum problems as well. The answer is gum contouring surgery.

With gum contouring, sometimes called tissue sculpting or gum reshaping, a Royal Oak dentist or periodontist can improve the shape or size of your gums.

Gum reshaping is not always a cosmetic procedure. If the gums have receded to a point where the tooth root is susceptible to decay, gum surgery can restore the natural, healthy gumline and protect tooth root and bone.

For more information about gum contouring, call us 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 3227

Time To Upgrade Your Smile?

Cosmetic Dentistry Options Have you thought about upgrading your smile? Cosmetic dentistry offers many fantastic possibilities for Royal Oak residents.

The quickest and least invasive procedure is light teeth whitening. The results are dramatic and teeth whitening side effects are minimal.

If your teeth are slightly crooked but require no orthodontic work, porcelain veneers could be the answer. Porcelain teeth veneers are translucent, wafer-thin covers that are permanently attached to the front of teeth, correcting chips and stains. Prepless veneers do not require the removal of tooth structure.

If your teeth are more than slightly crooked, it’s not too late for braces. Royal Oak dental patients of all ages are undergoing orthodontic treatment and achieving fantastic results. The newest braces are less noticeable, more comfortable and bring teeth into alignment much faster than old-school metal braces.

Has gum recession caused the metal base of an old crown to be visible? Soft tissue grafts and/or crown replacement can correct this problem.

Are you missing one or more teeth? One of the best tooth replacement options is a dental implant. A dental implant consists of a titanium post surgically inserted into the jaw bone to replace the root of the missing tooth. The post integrates with the bone to provide a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.

Can you envision yourself with a dental makeover?
Call Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry at 248-541-8770 to discuss your cosmetic dentistry 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 643

Aching Jaw?

Aching Jaw In Royal Oak?

Hi. I’m Dr. Steven Gustafson, and today in the Royal Oak dentist blog, I want to look at some of the conditions that may result in jaw pain.

Jaw pain may be caused by sinusitis. Sinusitis is the inflammation of the tissues that line your sinuses, and when these tissues are inflamed, the sinuses exert pressure on surrounding areas. If the inflamed sinus is near the jaw, pain in the jaw joint may result. This commonly happens with a cold or allergies.

Many of my Detroit patients who come to me with jaw pain have some type of dental issue, such as an infection, or a problem in the temporomandibular joint (also known as TMJ).

The source of jaw pain can easily be identified at your Detroit dental office, and treatment can begin from there. But remember, jaw pain shouldn’t be ignored.

If you are looking for quality dental care around the Berkley, Birmingham, or Ferndale areas, please consider Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry. I am located in Detroit and have been serving the greater Detroit area since 1984. If you have any questions about oral health or cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, or dental implants, give us a call today at 248-541-8770.

Gustafson Morningstar Dentistry offers:

cosmetic dentistry
dental implants
dentures
Invisalign

And so much more! Whether you need a routine dental check-up or are considering a smile makeover, contact our friendly staff 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 4025