Oral Health

May15

Drs. Stewart and Hull Treat Sores, Lesions, and Fever Blisters

Categories: Oral Health

Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry Treats Cankers Sores Lesions and Fever Blisters

At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, one of the most common complaints we hear from Comstock Park dentistry patients is problems with mouth sores.

There are many different kinds of oral lesions which can make eating and talking painful. Some are annoying yet harmless, while other sores are more serious and require medical intervention.

Though not contagious, the most common complaint is canker sores, which affect an estimated eighty percent of the Grand Rapids population. Canker sores can be attributed to stress, tissue irritation, or acidic foods.

Another common complaint is fever blisters or cold sores, which are contagious fluid-filled blisters. Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta and Rockford, MI cold sore sufferers should be aware that they can become infected. At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we advise our patients on how to treat cold sores and avoid further breakouts.

Fungal infections and oral cancer can cause sores in the mouth and throat. See your Grand Rapids dentist if you experience any of the following:

Lumps or discolored patches in the mouth lasting longer than three weeks
Unusually large lesions
Multiple sores

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull remind patients that eating a well balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, and not smoking can all aid in oral health and hygiene.

To schedule an appointment or ask about other oral concerns, contact Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry today at 616-784-2377.

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park Michigan
616-784-2377
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Comstock Park provides the full spectrum of general, cosmetic, and family dental services. We offer implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, and porcelain veneers.

Feb13

Are You Getting Your Dose of D?

Categories: Oral Health

pediatric dentist

Most Rockford, MI people know that vitamin D is important for healthy teeth and bones, but many of us fail to get adequate amounts. Today’s article is a friendly reminder to our patients – especially expectant mothers – about the importance of vitamin D.

Here is a sampling of vitamin D findings from around the web:

“Several recent reports demonstrate a significant association between periodontal health and the intake of vitamin D.” 1

“Researchers who took a second look at a series of clinical trials conducted on 2,000 children in several countries between the 1920s and 1980s determined vitamin D — which we often garner from sunlight — was associated with around a 50 percent reduction in the incidence of tooth decay.”2

“Inadequate vitamin D levels in pregnant women may be associated with dental caries in their children during the first year of life.”3

“The sun is an excellent source of vitamin D, but it is hard to quantify how much vitamin D you get from time in the sun and the risk of skin cancer may outweigh the benefits. Food first, says Baylor College of Medicine dietitian Keli Hawthorne. “Supplements can fill in the gaps but it is always better to try to meet your nutritional needs with foods that contain fiber, phytonutrients, and so much more,” Unless you enjoy a diet that includes fatty fish or fish liver oils, it may be hard to get enough vitamin D naturally without eating fortified foods or taking a supplement. “The major dietary source of vitamin D comes from fortified diary, along with some yogurts and cereals,” Hawthorne says. Mushrooms, eggs, cheese, and beef liver contain small amounts.” 4

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull of Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Comstock Park, MI encourage all of their patients to practice preventative medicine by eating a healthy diet complete with all vital nutrients. At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we offer the full complement of dental services in our conveniently located office. Ask us about porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, or restorative dentistry.

We are currently accepting new patients at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. Our friendly team of dental professionals would love to serve your family with all of their dental needs. Please call to schedule an appointment: 616-784-2377.

1 SH Stein, DA Tipton, “Vitamin D and its impact on oral health–an update., Spring 2011, PubMed.gov NIH,” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21748977, accessed on June 23, 2014
2 1University of Washington, “Vitamin D linked to lower rates of tooth decay,” ScienceDaily, November 27, 2012, www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/11/121127130321.htm, accessed on June 23, 2014
3 “Maternal Vitamin D Levels and Early Childhood Caries May be Linked, Researchers Find,”Journal of the American Dental Association, June 1, 2014, https://jada.info/content/145/6/526.3.full, accessed on June 23, 2014
4 “Are You Getting Enough Vitamin D?,” WebMD, 2011, https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/guide/are-you-getting-enough-vitamin-d?page=2, accessed on June 23, 2014

Jan30

How Does Your Overall Health Affect Your Smile?

Categories: Oral Health

Educating Comstock Park Dental Patients About Little-Known Risks

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park treat and educate patients with tooth and gum problems. There are many common medical conditions that pose a risk to oral health.

1) Diabetic patients with high blood glucose often have a higher risk of dental issues.

2) A persistent dry mouth due to an inadequate amount of saliva can accelerate tooth decay, cause or contribute to gum disease, and trigger chronic bad breath. Many medications used by thousands of Belmont, Cedar Springs, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford MI residents, including those for high-blood pressure and depression, can cause dry mouth. This side effect is not only unpleasant, but it is dangerous. Anti-depressants (especially SSRIs) and anti-psychotic drugs can also trigger tooth-grinding (bruxism).

3) Acid reflux in children and adults is associated with several dental problems such as decay and periodontal disease.

We help many dental patients prevent problems associated with medical conditions that sometimes seem unrelated to dental health. Regular professional dental care is essential for oral health, and an important part of your overall physical health.

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan 49321
616-827-7019
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

Jan16

5 Tips For Grand Rapids Residents With Mouth Sores

Categories: Oral Health

Prevent Mouth Sores Grand Rapids

When Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull’s patients get mouth sores, we advise them to evaluate what they’re eating and make some changes. By following these tips, you too can avoid the discomfort of eating and help to increase the speed of healing.

  1. Eat soft or pureed foods. Don’t worry, you won’t have to eat baby food – plenty of adult dishes fit the bill:

Cream soups
Yogurt
Hot cereal
Mashed potatoes
Puddings

  1. Keep your meals bland for a while. We know it’s no fun, but watch out for overly spicy, tart, salty or acidic foods while you have a mouth sore.
  2. Also, keep it cool. Eat only food that is at room temperature or is served chilled.
  3. Use a straw so that whatever you are drinking can bypass the mouth sore altogether.
  4. Try to moisten dry foods. This can be done by adding sauces, dressings, and gravy to your meals.

We hope that these suggestions will help you the next time you suffer from a mouth sore. If you are looking for a dentist in the Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker or Rockford, MI area, consider our practice, Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. We have been serving Comstock Park since 1974. Call us at 616-827-7019 to schedule an examination and consultation. We offer a complete menu of general and cosmetic dental procedures including:

Teeth whitening
Restorative dentistry
Implant dentistry
Porcelain veneers

You can also visit us on the web at https://www.greatmismiles.com/.

Call today!

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
616-827-7019
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

The following website was used as source material for this blog:
https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/nutrition-concerns/, accessed on Feb. 21, 2013

Dec19

Is Your Low-Carb Diet Giving You Bad Breath?

Categories: Oral Health

bad breath treatment Rockford, MI

Many residents in the Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker, and Rockford, MI area mistakenly believe that all bad breath is linked to insufficient brushing. The truth is that there are several causes of halitosis. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull can help you identify the cause of your problem and discuss how to cure bad breath.

What you eat may have something to do with it. Because foods begin to be digested the moment they enter your mouth, and because they are absorbed and distributed throughout the body, you probably will be able to smell strong foods like onions and garlic long after you’ve eaten them.

Using a mouthwash from your local Comstock Park drugstore will only mask the smell. Constantly sucking on breath mints is also not a good idea. This may bring additional oral problems – especially if the mints have sugar. If you want real relief, you may need to avoid the strong foods altogether.

Many dieters find that their diet regimen is making it harder to keep their mouth fresh and clean. Low-carb and no-carb diets promote fat burning, but the side effect of bad breath can be caused by the chemicals released during this process. Increasing water intake can help alleviate this.

Lastly, flossing regularly is often the key to truly fresh breath.  Food stuck between teeth can cause halitosis if it isn’t removed.  More importantly, the food particles turn into plaque which can cause cavities and gum disease.
 Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull in Comstock Park provide general, restorative, and cosmetic dental treatmebt.  We want our patients to have the best oral health possible, and that includes fresh breath. We also want them to love their smile, so if you have any questions about a smile makeover or other cosmetic dentistry procedures, give us a call at 616-827-7019.

Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry offers:

Implant dentistry
Restorative dentistry
Porcelain veneers
Teeth whitening

Call today for your appointment!

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
616-827-7019
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

The following website was used as source material for this blog:
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/low-carb-diets-can-cause-bad-breath, accessed on August 12, 2013

Dec12

4 Super Tips For Strong Enamel In Grand Rapids

Categories: Oral Health

Grand Rapids dentistDid 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 strong 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 hurt your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are 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 teeth.

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

  1. Avoid vigorous brushingand use a soft toothbrush. 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, discuss teeth whitening with your dentist.
  2. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so talk to Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull about treatment.
  3. Talk to your dentist about dry mouth and tooth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major problem for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can cause enamel wear. Please inform Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull if you experience either of these issues.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry we want our patients to have the best oral health possible, and that starts with enamel health. We love helping our patients get the dazzling smiles they want with various cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, Invisalign, tooth colored fillings, and dental implants.

Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry is currently accepting new patients; please call us at (616) 827-7019 to make an appointment!

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
(616) 827-7019
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

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

Sep5

Floss Pick Facts For Rockford

Categories: Oral Health

fast teeth whitening Rockford MI

Dental patients who live in the Grand Rapids, Walker, and Sparta areas want to keep their mouths as healthy and clean as possible. However, they are also looking for convenience, and that’s why many of them turn to floss picks instead of old-fashioned dental floss.

These little tools are quite handy. They usually have a handle that is pointed and can double as a toothpick, and a length of floss strung in a U-shaped groove. They are inexpensive and can be used more discreetly than floss.

While this may seem like a dream come true for Rockford residents hoping to make flossing a more regular part of their oral health routine, floss picks are still a step below actual floss in effectiveness.

The American Dental Association has only approved dental floss for cleaning in between teeth. One issue is that floss picks can’t curve and form the angles needed for superior cleaning.

So, what is a responsible dental patient to do? The first thing is to speak with your Comstock Park dentist and see what their opinion is. If you love floss picks, continue to use them when convenient, but still try to use regular dental floss daily.

If you are looking for a new dentist, we hope that you consider Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. We have been serving the Rockford area since 1974 from our Comstock Park practice.

Our friendly and thorough staff would love to answer any questions you have about flossing and other dental health concerns, as well as questions about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers.

Call 616-827-7019 today to schedule an exam or consultation.

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
616-827-7019
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

The following website was used as source material for this blog: https://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/product-category-information/floss-and-other-interdental-cleaners, accessed on August 1, 2014

May9

Comstock Park: 7 Surprising Causes Of Bad Breath

Categories: Oral Health

Comstock Park: 7 Surprising Causes Of Bad Breath

Comstock Park men and women who have chronic bad breath understand the embarrassment and frustration associated with this condition. There are several possible causes, including:

  1. Poor oral hygiene
  2. Digestive problems
  3. Systemic infection
  4. Bacteria on dentures
  5. Gum disease
  6. Food particles on tonsils
  7. Dry mouth

At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we can help you with this unpleasant problem. If your bad breath is the result of poor oral hygiene, you’re in luck – this is one of the easiest types to treat.

Schedule an examination and deep dental cleaning at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Comstock Park. During your examination, Dr. Stewart or Dr. Hull will determine whether you have a dental problem that is contributing to your breath.

Possible dental causes are: a cavity, a broken crown, or gum disease. If  Dr. Hull or Dr.  Stewart suspect that your bad breath is caused by a non-dental problem, such as a respiratory infection, you will be referred to an appropriate Comstock Park area medical professional.

Treating bad breath in Comstock Park starts with a visit to Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. In addition to general dental care, we provide a complete menu of cosmetic dental services including implant dentistry, veneers, Invisalign, Six Month Smile, teeth whitening, and restorative dentistry. Call 616-827-7019 today!

Jan24

“If Your Gums Are Swollen And Sore, Call Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry”

Categories: General Dentistry, Oral Health

Comstock Park Gum Disease Treatment

If you are a worried Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Walker, Sparta, Belmont or Rockford, MI  resident experiencing inflamed gums or an aching tooth, you’re not alone. About one third of U.S. adults are affected by tooth decay, according to the CDC, and gum disease plagues one in seven people age 35 to 40. Don’t ignore these symptoms, call Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull take gingivitis seriously because left untreated it can lead to loss of bone and tissue that support the teeth.

Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. You will know you have it if your gums bleed easily and look red and swollen. If this condition is not reversed it can lead to periodontitis. With this condition your gums become loose and separate from the teeth forming cavities that can become infected. This can spread to the bone supporting the tooth. If this is damaged, the tooth can be lost. (If you have already lost a tooth to gum disease, ask us about dental implants.)

At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry we recommend a minimum of twice daily brushing and flossing and regular dental cleanings to help help fight gingivitis. Our team has been treating gum disease and other dental problems for Michigan residents since 1974./p>
If you want your teeth to feel fresh and bright, come in for a cleaning and through examination. Don’t become a statistic, prevent gingivitis with a professional dental cleaning while we educate you how to best care for your teeth and gums year round.

Dr. Stewart, Dr. Hull and our staff offer quality general and cosmetic dental services including restorative dentistry, implant dentistry, Invisalign and Six Month Smiles.

Take care of your beautiful smile by calling Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry today. “Lighting Up Rooms One Smile At A Time.”

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan 49321
616-827-7019
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

1“Adult Oral Health,” The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/topics/adult.htm, accessed on January 7, 2012

Jan10

Visit Your Dentist At Least Twice A Year And Save Money

Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Oral Health

Visit Your Grand Rapids Dentist At Least Twice A Year And Save MoneyVisiting your family dentist regularly is a great way to save money. You may initially think that avoiding your local dentist will save money in the fees that are charged for x-rays and cleanings, but in reality, these simple procedures will help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. This will save you money in the long run. Just think how much more expensive a root canal and crown can be.

Find A Dental Home: Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull have a convenient location and hours to fit your schedule. Call for an appointment and to establish yourself and your family as one of our valued patients.

Get A Professional Cleaning At Least Twice A Year: This is a time for you to get a 360-degree examination of your teeth and gums.  In some cases the doctor may diagnose the need for a filling, but left untreated, a root canal and crown may be necessary.  A cleaning will help prevent gum disease, and it is a great time for you to review your oral hygiene habits.

Follow The Dental Professional’s Advice: When your dentist and hygienist examine and clean your mouth, they are able to see what you cannot, and offer insightful tips to help prevent cavities and gum disease.