Aug5

Don’t Let Poor Oral Health Take You Out Of The Game

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

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This article from Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI is about the growing body of evidence that emphasizes the importance of good dental health.

A recent study cited in the British Journal of Sports Medicine explored how poor dental health affects athletic performance at the elite level.

“More than 40% of athletes were bothered by their oral health with 28% reporting an impact on quality of life and 18% on training and performance,” the Journal noted.1

The dental problems experienced by Olympians and professional athletes are no different than those found in the general population: tooth decay, dental erosion, periodontal disease, and inflammation around partially erupted wisdom teeth. It’s important to note that these issues are largely preventable.

Athletes are also at risk for mouth injuries suffered while competing or training. Tooth trauma can prevent injured athletes from competing in the short term and cause ongoing complications down the road.

Whether you are an Olympic runner or a busy working mom, dental health affects your overall health and quality of life. Don’t let your performance suffer because of poor dental health.

If it has been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, we invite you to schedule a checkup with Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI right away. Patients in Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI come to us for general and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Jul22

What is Patient-Centered Dental Care?

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

cosmetic dentistry Comstock Park

A question from the team at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI: What is your perception of the patient-dentist relationship?

Would you characterize it as one-sided? In other words, does the dentist examine your teeth, choose the course of treatment, and perform the procedure; all while the patient is just a participant?

It Starts With The Atmosphere

We don’t do things that way. You will learn the difference when you first walk in our doors. You will discover a friendly atmosphere. We don’t push patients through as if they were on an assembly line.

We see you as a whole person, not just a disembodied mouth full of teeth. We want to create a long-term relationship with you- one that benefits you and helps us do our jobs well.

We Listen

When we examine a patient and finds a problem that needs treatment, there is rarely only one solution proposed. We take as much time as necessary explain the options and answer your questions.

By listening carefully, communicating clearly, and asking the right questions, we can fully assess the many important factors that influence your present and future oral health.

If this sounds good to you, give us a call at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI. Services include general and cosmetic dentistry. Patients from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI also come to us for dental implants. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

ArticleID 7499
Jul15

How To Make Brushing Your Teeth A Habit

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, General Dentistry

How To Make Brushing Your Teeth A Habit

Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is one of the best things you can do to maintain good dental health. You’ve probably heard us say that more than once, at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI.

Not many patients like to admit it, but studies show that some people have a hard time working regular brushing into their daily schedule. If that sounds like you, please keep reading. We’ve got five tips to help turn brushing into a habit.

  1. In Plain Sight: Leaving your toothbrush where you’re sure to see it will remind you. In a cup on the bathroom counter, or in a holder just by it, are tried-and-true techniques.
  2. Find A Toothbrush You Like: Leaving it in plain sight is part one. Part two? A toothbrush you like! A brush with a comfortable handle can be a pleasure to use.
  3. Toothpaste Choices: There’s a wide selection of toothpaste out there. You may want something specific, like a sensitive-teeth paste, or one that whitens. Just make sure you like the flavor, and that it contains fluoride. Read the label!
  4. Make It Fun: Making it enjoyable is a great motivator. You like your toothbrush and toothpaste. Now, how about listening to your favorite music when you brush? Or brushing while you watch TV or listen to a podcast?
  5. Add It To Your To-Do List: A lot of us are motivated by lists. Having a to-do list of daily activities that includes brushing might encourage you to pick up the toothbrush. It can be satisfying to check off another item on your list.

That’s five. We have more! Set an alarm. Brush in the shower. Right after breakfast. Right before bed. Whatever works! At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI we want all our patients to have clean teeth and healthy gums. Brush twice a day, remember to floss, and see us for regular checkups. People from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI come to our practice for family and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

ArticleID 7779
Jul8

Let That Winning Smile Shine!

Categories: Dental health, Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

Everyone wants a winning smile. But as we age, it can get harder and harder to keep your smile brilliant. We have good news! Cosmetic dentistry from Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI can transform your smile!

Cosmetic dentistry is a range of dental procedures that can revitalize your winning smile. And that, in turn, can give your self-confidence a real shot in the arm.

Cosmetic dentistry includes the following:

  • Teeth Whitening: Who wouldn’t like a brighter smile? Teeth whitening is a quick and easy way to make the color of your teeth lighter and more pleasing. Professional whitening is more effective than any available over-the-counter product.
  • Porcelain Veneers: Thin shells of medical-grade ceramic are custom-made to fit over the front of your teeth. They can mask chips, cracks, or gaps between teeth. They’re even good for strengthening teeth with worn enamel.
  • Invisalign® Clear Braces: Virtually invisible, clear braces can improve your bite by straightening slightly crooked teeth. People love them because they come out at mealtime and when you brush and floss.

Any one of these can improve your smile. Put two more or more of them together and you will have a brand-new smile!

Cosmetic dentistry from Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI can make your winning smile shine! We’ve helped people from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI, who also some to our practice for general and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

ArticleID 8174
Jul1

Keeping You Comfortable

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

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At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we make a conscious effort to help our patients feel comfortable. Though our chairs are cushy as can be, we are not only talking about physical comfort. We are talking about emotional comfort. In other words, peace of mind.

Here are four ways we are devoted to your peace of mind:

  1. Judgment-Free Atmosphere: Our considerate dental team is here to help you, regardless of the state of your teeth. We have treated every imaginable dental issue, and understand and empathize with every patient.
  2. Pain-Free Dentistry: From topical analgesics to laughing gas sedation, we will eliminate or minimize pain as best we can.
  3. Patient Comforts: We will provide warm towels, heated and massaging chair covers, dark glasses to block out light, and even aroma therapy neck cushions, all in an effort to have your dental visit be as close to a spa visit as it can be!
  4. Communication: Dr. Eric Hull has established a reputation as an effective and caring communicator. Procedures are thoroughly explained and all your critical questions are answered prior to treatment.

If you have postponed dental treatment for any reason, we encourage you to give Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI a call. Patients from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI come to us for general dentistry and dental implants, as well as a host of cosmetic dentistry options. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

 

ArticleID 7038
Jun24

Is Perfect Possible?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental health

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Are you thinking about improving your appearance with a smile makeover? Are you skeptical when you hear promises of a “perfect” or “celebrity” smile? Well, at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry, so are we.

After all, perfect is a pretty tall order. So, let’s do a reality check, and review two of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures and the results you can expect.

  • Porcelain Veneers can remedy several problems. They can fix chips, cracks, minor tooth misalignment, tooth discoloration, unattractive tooth shape, and disproportionate tooth size. Can a veneer create a perfect tooth? While veneers don’t repair decay, they can turn unappealing teeth into beautiful teeth.
  • Teeth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment that dramatically improves a smile. Many patients are impressed by the amazing results when they leave our practice.

We only recommend teeth whitening for patients who are good candidates. If you have crowns in the front of your mouth, or gums that have receded, conventional teeth whitening may not lighten your smile.

These and other cosmetic dentistry solutions create sensational smiles, at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry. People from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI also come to us for general and restorative dentistry. Contact us for an appointment today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

 

ArticleID 1600
Jun17

3 Ways To Keep Your Mouth Happy!

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

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At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, our objective is to help every patient who comes in for an appointment to have the best possible oral health. This post focuses on something that doesn’t get as much attention as cavities or cosmetic dentistry: our sense of taste.

A happy mouth is not only a healthy mouth but also a mouth that can enjoy the flavors of all types of foods. Healthy oral habits benefit our taste buds as well as our smiles. Here are some recommendations to help you better enjoy all the flavors and textures that can make each meal a delight.

  • Treat Dry Mouth: Dry mouth can create a loss of taste sensitivity, so it should be treated quickly by your dentist. Adequate saliva is also necessary for avoiding decay and gum disease.
  • Steer Clear of Salt and Fat: Heavy processed food with artificial flavors can quickly desensitize you to more subtle, healthy flavors.
  • Don’t Smoke: Cigarettes are responsible for many serious health problems, but another effect is that smoke dulls your sense of taste. Olfactory nerves can even be permanently damaged.

At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we offer comprehensive general and restorative dentistry. Find out why people from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI trust us with their dental health! Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

ArticleID 4663
Jun10

Is Grandpa Smiling?

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

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How are Americans doing when it comes to the dental health of those who are sixty-five and over? Well, at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we have some good news and bad news.

The Good News:

  • Tooth decay rates in older Americans has decreased in the past thirty years.

The Bad News:

  • 25% of people over sixty-five have no remaining teeth
  • Nearly 20% have untreated cavities
  • 10% of adults 65 and over have moderate to severe periodontal disease.
  • There is evidence to suggest that advanced gum disease is linked to diabetes, heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease
  • Most older Americans don’t have dental insurance

Clearly, there is room for improvement. What elements will improve the oral health of older Americans? The National Institutes of Health cite three things:

  • Improved oral health education for the elderly
  • Seniors practicing effective daily oral hygiene
  • Increased access to dental care

At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we are committed to providing all of our patients with comprehensive oral health education and care. People from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI come to us for our full range of general and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

ArticleID 7123
Jun3

Top 5 Do’s And Don’ts Of Dental Hygiene

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

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At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI we want the best possible dental health for all of our patients. That means regular checkups at our office, but there’s plenty you can do at home, too.

  1. Do keep in mind that you are just clearing the plaque away before it turns to tartar. A gentle toothbrushing at the correct angle can gently clean the bacteria away. Once plaque has progressed into tartar, no measure of scrubbing at home can safely remove it. Don’t vigorously scrub your teeth and gums until your gums loosen and expose parts of your tooth.
  2. Do remember your gums need to be cared for. Thorough brushing and daily flossing can keep your gums healthy and strong. Don’t wait to see your dental professional about sore or bleeding gums, tooth pain or mouth sores.
  3. Do establish a routine for brushing and flossing that leaves sufficient time to spend a full two minutes delicately cleaning all the nooks and crannies of your mouth. Don’t forget to have a new floss package ready to use when your current one runs out. Waiting days to get to the store for more can disrupt a key routine.
  4. Do schedule twice-yearly dental checkups with us. Don’t worry if you don’t have the healthiest of mouths. We can help you get back on track. Whether you’re looking for cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, or sedation dentistry, we can restore what has been lost or counsel with you on the best options.
  5. Do enjoy your mouth and all the wonders it is capable of. Don’t put off coming in to find out what we can do to improve your smile!

At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI we are committed to excellence in dentistry. Patients from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI come to our practice for general and restorative dentistry. Contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

 

ArticleID 5450
May27

Teen Teeth: Adolescent Oral Health

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

adolescent dental issues

If you are a teenager or the parent of a teenager, this Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI post is for you. We’ll discuss dental issues of special concern to adolescents. Dental risks for teens include both developmental and lifestyle-related factors.

At our practice, we see decay and gum disease far too often in teens. Possible causes and complicating factors include insufficient dental hygiene, unhealthy diet, malocclusion (misaligned bite), smoking, hormonal changes, tooth grinding, mouth breathing, eating disorders, and side effects of medications.

As children become more independent, some get lax about brushing and flossing. Additionally, some teen’s diets become worse when they have more freedom to choose what to eat. Few parents let their four year-old drink an energy drink, but they are consumed frequently by adolescents.

Malocclusion can make proper brushing and flossing challenging, leaving even vigilant brushers with decay from food particles that are almost impossible to remove. Malocclusion can also trigger TMD (Temporomandibular disorder). If you suspect that your teen’s bite is not aligned properly, or if your teen hears a clicking sound in the jaw joint, it’s time for an exam!

In spite of numerous public service campaigns aimed at preventing teen smoking, many youths take up the dangerous habit even before they graduate from high school. Smoking wrecks teeth as surely as it wrecks lungs.

Puberty also has a significant impact on dental health. It causes all sorts of changes in the body, and the mouth is no exception. Increased hormone levels can cause the body to react to a very small amount of plaque, triggering inflammation of gum tissue and increased risk of the more advanced form of gum disease known as periodontitis. Your dentist can guide you if more frequent professional cleanings are needed to preserve gum health.

There’s also the threat of injury; many young athletes fail to protect their teeth. If your adolescent participates in a contact sport, communicate with us about custom athletic mouthguards.

One dental concern that can impact a lot of young people is wisdom teeth. It’s best to start monitoring your teen’s wisdom teeth early so they can be treated before they result in problems with the jaw or surrounding teeth. And you certainly don’t want to send your high-school grad to an out-of-state college without addressing their third molars. If problems appear, your youth won’t be near their regular dentist, will probably miss class, and will either need to come home or use an out-of-network dentist or oral surgeon.

This article is by no means exhaustive on the vital subject of adolescent oral health.  If you are looking for a family dentist, contact Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI today. We have been providing trusted dental care to families in Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI for years. For more specifics about teen dental health or family dentistry, contact us today!

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

 

ArticleID 7002