Jul7

Crowning Achievements In Dentistry

Categories: Porcelain Veneers, Restorative dentistry

dental crowns Grand Rapids

Today’s article looks at one of the miracles of modern dentistry: the dental restoration.

Let’s pretend you are a biomedical engineer working in the field of dentistry before the introduction of dental restorations. The men and women of your generation who have missing or damaged teeth want to repair or replace them with a man-made substitute. You have been hired to find or create a material that can be used to manufacture fillings, crowns, and dental bridges.

Consider the various physical and chemical requirements of this incredible substance. It must tolerate forces of 162 pounds per square inch (PSI), hundreds of times a day–day after day, year after year. It must be resistant to cracking and chipping. But there’s a catch regarding its stability; it must not weaken the enamel on opposing teeth. This material must also maintain its size and shape and be resistant to shrinking.

It must be bondable to living tooth structure as well as other materials necessary for specific appliances. It must be biocompatible with the soft tissues in the mouth as well as tooth enamel, dentin, and bone. It can’t generate allergic reactions in the wearers. It must be corrosion-resistant to the chemicals in saliva, foods, and beverages. It must resist infection regardless of ever-present bacteria in the mouth. And it can’t contain toxic chemicals that could be absorbed into the bloodstream.

And we haven’t even thought about the esthetics yet. Ideally, this amazing material would be indistinguishable from genuine teeth in color, opacity, and translucence.

Of course, we know that such a substance exists because dental restorations have been around for a long time. Nowadays, there are numerous materials used alone or in combination including porcelain, ceramic, and metals such as gold and silver amalgam. Though the metals are extremely strong and malleable, they don’t meet some patient’s esthetic requirements and are used mainly for back teeth.

It is interesting to note that porcelain, one of the ideal materials used in modern restorations, was developed over 2000 years ago in China.

I wonder if the ancient Chinese porcelain inventors who developed the techniques for molding, firing, and painting the beautiful tableware and vases highly regarded around the world ever imagined that their invention would live beautifully in the mouths of millions of individuals more than twenty centuries later!

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry offers porcelain veneers, Six Month Smiles, implant dentistry, Zoom! teeth whitening, and restorative dentistry. For more information, call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today at 616-784-2377 or visit us. 

We can whiten, brighten, and straighten your smile!

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

Jun30

Not Happy With Your Dentist?

Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

Comstock Park Cosmetic Dentisty Hello! Whether you stumbled upon this blog by mistake or clicked here on purpose, welcome!

In the Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental blog, we post informative articles about dentistry. This includes general dentistry, cosmetic dental treatments, preventative dental care, and news about our dental practice. Many of my patients visit my blog regularly and I hope you will also find useful dental information here.

If you are in need of a dentist or are not happy with your current dentist, I invite you to visit my Comstock Park office, meet my friendly and thorough staff, and explore your dental needs.

We are passionate about exceeding our patients’ expectations.

Before we can provide dental treatment, however, Drs. Hull must become familiar with each patient. That is why your first initial consultation will take some time. We can’t get to know each other in five minutes.

How are you doing? What is the current condition of your teeth and gums? What are your worries and expectations about dental treatment? Do you have financial concerns about the cost of treatment?

I recognize that each one of my patients has a unique set of circumstances.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we emphasize preventative dental care. When restorative dental treatment is necessary, we prescribe the most conservative treatment.

If you have pressing dental needs, let’s address your options and consider the long-term consequences of each treatment. We are committed to your well-being and want you to receive the best possible care.

Please call us at 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation. We are confident that you will feel good about choosing Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for your dental care.

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

Jun23

4 Oral Ailments To Discuss With Your Dentist

Categories: About Our Office, Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

Bad Breath Treatment Grand RapidsLet’s address the most prevalent oral conditions that should be discussed with your dentist.

1. Bad Breath. Sure, nobody wants to admit that they have bad breath, but bad breath can be treated. It is usually associated with bacteria build-up in the mouth. This means that it might be a symptom of accelerating decay. Discuss it with your dentist who can help you overcome this ailment. (Your friends will appreciate it.)

2. Dry Mouth. Also known as xerostomia, this lack of saliva is very irritating and can predispose dental patients to a host of problems such as decay and gum disease. Some people experience it because of prescription medications or chronic diseases, so make sure to bring a list of current prescriptions with you to your appointment

3. Jaw Issues. If you experience frequent jaw pain or notice a clicking sound, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist immediately! These symptoms can be signs of a serious condition called temporomandibular disorder or TMD.

4. Teeth Grinding. If you’ve been stressed out and find that you’ve been grinding your teeth (or if your partner tells you that you’re doing it in your sleep), discuss it with your dentist. A simple appliance can shield your teeth. If you have suffered damage from grinding such as fractured or chipped teeth, we will give you specifics about restorative dentistry.

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

Jun16

Know The Facts About Oral Piercings

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

health risks of oral piercings Comstock Park

Body piercings are a common form of self-expression seen around Grand Rapids. Today’s post is for those who currently have an oral piercing or are considering one.

Since this is a dental blog, I am sure you expect us to raise all sorts of alarms warning of the dangers of piercings. You are right. Unfortunately, these piercings and the jewelry they accommodate can lead to serious issues with not only your teeth and mouth, but your entire body. These piercings can bring about tooth damage, cavities, periodontal disease, tooth loss, bone recession, compromised immune system function and, in rare cases, death.

In general, any oral piercing is going to open you up to an array of dangerous oral infections and complications. The mouth is full of germs and introducing foreign objects permanently is not natural for your body’s health.

A tongue piercing can bring about difficulty chewing with unnatural chewing patterns that may lead to swallowing dilemmas. The jewelry produces excess saliva from the salivary glands, which throws off the natural balance of your oral cavity. Permanent nerve deterioration, excessive bleeding, and allergic reactions can also occur.

Metal jewelry also can easily come in contact with your teeth, leading to cracked, chipped, or damaged teeth. Your teeth are built to last a lifetime. Chips, cracks, and enamel erosion compromise their strength and shorten their lifespan.

Complications with some piercings develop by the introduction of hepatitis and herpes simplex viruses, and even more complications have occurred with bacteria entering the bloodstream and eventually lodging in the heart valve. In rare cases, such infections are fatal.

Though not technically a piercing, some Michigan people drill small holes in their teeth to place rhinestones or other jewelry. Drilling into a tooth is harmful for many reasons, including damage that can make a root canal required. The jewel also can attract bacteria that can directly go into the drilled cavity of the tooth.

Dr. Hull encourages patients with oral piercings to remove their jewelry before it puts their health at risk. However, if you have an oral piercing and plan to keep it, we advise you to have scheduled dental cleanings and check-ups. It’s important to repair problems in their early stages before they become more extreme. Do not wait if you suspect you may have a dental or physical issue.

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

Jun9

Saving Teeth at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Root Canals in Comstock Park When a tooth is threatened by severe decay, periodontal disease, or damage from an injury, a skilled dentist or endodontist must make a judgment call concerning the course of treatment. If the pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal is typically the only way to save the tooth.

During a root canal procedure (or endodontic treatment), the soft tissue in the root of the tooth is removed. This tissue contains veins, arteries, and lymph vessels. Once the roots are taken out and widened, they are filled with a special rubber material.

The root canal is only the primary step in complete tooth restoration. After the root canal, without a crown, the tooth will become dry and brittle. The concluding procedures are the core build-up and crown.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we fabricate strong, natural-looking crowns that blend perfectly with the surrounding teeth. With proper oral hygiene and twice-yearly visits to your dentist, a tooth with a filled root can often function problem—free for the rest of a patient’s life.

I am Dr. Eric Hull, DDS, of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. I have been practicing dentistry since 1974. During that time I have seen hundreds of teeth saved by this effective dental procedure. Root canal therapy has a very high success rate.

Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often do not produce symptoms, it is critical to have regular dental examinations. I can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved.

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

May26

Are Your Eating Habits Sabotaging Your Oral Health?

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

dental enamel erosion treatment Comstock Park

Most Comstock Park residents know that frequently eating foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Therefore, it’s important to limit candy, soda, cookies, etc. Also, remember that frequency is as dangerous as the amount of sugar.

Research has found that a higher frequency of sugar consumption may lead to demineralization more than the amount of sugar consumed. In other words, eating sugary foods in small amounts on a regular basis can do more harm than eating the occasional sugar-laden dessert. (Healthline)

Tooth Enamel Varies in Density

Before we discuss the issue further, let’s review the miracle substance that protects our teeth: enamel. While enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s not invincible. In fact, it demineralizes (loses some of its density) when it comes in contact with sugar, acids and bacteria.

Let’s explore additional eating habits and how they can affect oral health.

Acid is as Bad as Sugar

First, let’s talk about acids. A plethora of both healthy and unhealthy foods and drinks are acidic. Soda pop and energy drinks are especially harmful because they have sugar and acid, a dangerous combo. Plus, they provide virtually no nutrition. However, you probably don’t want to limit all acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Many acidic foods and beverages are high in Vitamin C and other nutrients.

You can protect your teeth by eating these things as part of a meal to limit the acidic effects. It is a good idea to eat a variety of healthy foods such as chicken, cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts, and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will advance tooth remineralization.

Meal Timing Makes a Difference

The more often you eat the more often your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be eased by choosing healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat, the more likely you will skip brushing and flossing altogether.

Enamel Erosion

While the enamel is soft, the tooth is vulnerable to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the onslaught continues, the much softer dentin underneath is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, you may lose the tooth.

Understand Which Foods are Acidic

Broadly speaking, the normal diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are considered acidic. We don’t recommend cutting out healthy foods. We just want you to be aware of them so you can make better choices.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have enamel erosion. Call us to schedule an appointment and Drs. Hull can examine your teeth and discuss it with you.

Is Your Go-To Beverage Affecting Your Teeth?

Now let’s talk about liquids. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Comstock Park teenagers that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their densest. As mentioned, energy drinks have a multitude of teeth-damaging ingredients. Dentists are noticing the effects of their increasing popularity.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can stimulate the remineralization process.

Xylitol Gum

If you choose to chew gum to stimulate saliva production, a good choice is a gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually beneficial for your teeth.

Several clinical studies have established that xylitol prohibits the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also minimizes plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.

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

May19

Denture Wearers Can Preserve Their Jaw Bone and Facial Shape

Categories: Restorative dentistry

invisible braces for adults Comstock Park

More than 36 million Americans don’t have any teeth. And 120 million are missing at least one tooth. (American College of Prosthodontists) 90% of people without teeth wear dentures. Are you one of them?

Dentures aren’t the ideal tooth replacement

If so, how are your dentures working for you? Do they slip around in your mouth? Are they uncomfortable? If so, it may be time for a reline. Dentures need to be relined from time to time so they fit right. The reason for this is because of bone loss and gum shrinkage. Think about that for a minute. Bone loss?!! Gum shrinkage?!!

Let’s discuss it.

What causes bone loss?

To remain strong and vital, your jawbone needs to be consistently stimulated by the pressure of chewing, biting, and talking. Each tooth has a root structure that extends into the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth function, it stimulates blood flow in the bone surrounding the root.

In other words, your jaw bone has an important job to do, but can diminish if it’s no longer needed.

Look at this for a minute. When tooth roots are gone, your jawbone starts shrinking. And what happens when the underlying structure shrinks? The outer structure changes as well. Eventually, the shape of your face will change.

Bone loss isn’t unavoidable

Before you resign yourself to a shrinking jawbone and eventual hollowed-out cheeks, consider a better option. We’re talking about implant-secured dentures.

What are implant-secured dentures?

A dental implant is a replacement for a tooth that includes the tooth root and the visible part of the tooth. A single implant would have an abutment (connector piece) with a crown affixed. With implant-anchored dentures, the denture composes the visible part of multiple teeth connected to a fewer number of implants. In other words, instead of 1 post + 1 crown for each tooth, you may have all-in-4 which means one complete arch anchored to 4 posts.

Dentures secured by implants are held in place with permanent metal screws or posts–the root replacement part of the implant.

Tooth implants can be used in many different ways. For example, an implant can replace one missing tooth. Or, an implant attached to a dental bridge can replace two or three missing teeth.

In this post, however, we will first describe how implants can serve as a strong base for securing a denture to either the upper or lower arch.

How are the implants inserted?

Dental implant placement works like this: first, the posts are surgically implanted into the jaw bone. Though “oral surgery” might sound extensive, implant placement is an outpatient procedure at your dentist’s office. For most patients, it doesn’t take much longer than filling a cavity. As with other procedures, your dentist will use a numbing agent so you will feel very little pain.

Osseointegration

The next part of the process is vital, although the patient doesn’t have to do anything except practice good oral hygiene. In the months after implant surgery, the post integrates with the jaw bone. This biological process is called osseointegration. Your jawbone integrates into the post as if it was a natural tooth root.

Remember what we discussed earlier? The jaw bone stays healthy when stimulated by tooth roots. Your jawbone works with artificial tooth roots similarly to natural tooth roots. This is what can prevent bone recession! (When you see ads that say dental implants are truly revolutionary, it’s not hyperbole.)

Custom dentures anchored to the implants

Once the implant has securely meshed with the jaw bone, the implant recipient receives a final fitment for their new implant-secured dentures. Just as with any restoration at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, implant-anchored dentures are custom-fit and designed to blend perfectly with remaining teeth. If you don’t have any natural teeth, you will choose the appropriate color with the guidance of Drs. Hull.

Am I a suitable candidate for implant dentures?

When considering whether to get implant-secured dentures, traditional dentures, or some other restoration option, the number of missing teeth affects your specific treatment. If you have suffered extensive tooth loss but still have healthy, bone then implant dentures might work for you.

Implants bonded to a dental bridge

People with three or four adjacent missing teeth may consider two implants bonded to a dental bridge. This configuration is similar to dentures secured by but the bridge covers less gum tissue at the location.

Implant-anchored dentures can change your life

Modern dental implant procedures, cutting-edge materials, and the proficiency of dentists such as Drs. Eric Hull, combine to create truly sensational smiles.

Call us today for dental implant consultation and learn what’s possible for your smile.

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

May12

Implant Dentures: Fixed or Removable?

Categories: Dental Implants, Restorative dentistry

implant dentures Comstock Park

Today, dental patients with missing teeth are fortunate to have a tooth replacement choice that is far better than both traditional dentures and dental bridges. Implant-retained or implant-stabilized dentures both provide numerous advantages over traditional dentures.

  • Secure in the mouth—no slipping
  • Offers up to 100% natural chewing function
  • Upper denture doesn’t cover as much of the palate
  • Comfortable
  • Little or no gum irritation
  • Doesn’t impair speaking ability
  • Strong and durable
  • Implants prevent bone loss and “sunken face”
  • Allows user to eat any type of food—even steak
  • No adhesive required
  • Minimally invasive oral surgery for implant placement

What Are The Differences Between Fixed and Removable?

Fixed implant-retained dentures (sometimes called screw-in) require more implants than the removable type. They can restore 100% of chewing capacity.

Removable implant dentures (sometimes called snap-in) may require just 4 implants to stabilize the upper arch and just 2 for the lower denture. Removable implant-stabilized dentures can restore up to 90% of chewing ability.

How Do I Choose?

Call 616-784-2377 to schedule an implant denture consultation with Drs. Hull. The following factors will impact the recommendation.

Bone Condition

Implants require the patient has a sufficient amount of healthy bone structure for placement. The condition of your jawbone affects whether or not it can support implants and where the posts can be inserted.

Cost

Fixed implant dentures cost more but some men and women believe the advantages outweigh the extra expense.

Convenience

Fixed implant-stabilized dentures don’t have to be removed for cleaning. Patients who have found it inconvenient to clean standard dentures would face the same issue with removable implant-retained dentures.

Diet

Fixed dentures are sturdier than removable dentures. Patients who choose foods that are harder to chew should consider this.

Sleep Conditions

Men and women with TMJ or sleep apnea may find it more difficult to manage these conditions if they have to remove their dentures at night.

For an implant denture consultation, call us at 616-784-2377.

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

May5

6 Ways To Prepare For Your Dental Procedure

Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

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Nervous about an upcoming procedure? Let Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry offer 6 ways to prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically before your big dental day.

First, remember Drs. Eric Hull is trained to provide the best care and comfort possible.

Second, take some time to relax and pinpoint what you are uneasy about. Take deep breaths and slowly let them out as you weigh the reasons for and against taking these steps to a better you. Remember that many men and women have been in your shoes and everything worked out fine.

Third, know your medical history. You may be asked to complete a medical history and medications form, so be sure you know what medications and supplements you are currently taking and review past hospitalizations and illnesses.

Fourth, have a dental plan. Come in for a thorough consultation. If we know all the dental work or cosmetic dentistry you want to get done, then we’ll know if combining any of it can save you time and money. We offer implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers, Zoom! teeth whitening, and Six Month Smiles to name just a few.

Fifth, trust the outstanding staff at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry to guide you through the before, during and after the process. We’ve been doing this since 1974.

Sixth, our final important suggestion! Ask all the questions that you want to be answered before you have dental tools and gloved hands in your mouth!

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

Apr30

Your Dentist Provides Comprehensive Oral Care

Categories: General Dentistry

top dental practice Grand Rapids

How does your dentist help you stay healthy?

Most people know that they can go to their dentist if they chip a tooth or have a toothache. Because of this, they may not realize how many other health problems your dentist can help you with.

A full-service dental practice provides comprehensive oral health care.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is usually due to bacteria build-up in the mouth. Perhaps, however, you have unpleasant breaths even though you brush and floss daily. If that’s the case, speak with your dentist. She or he can help you discover the cause of your problem. It could be an infection or a side effect of prescription medications. You need a professional diagnosis and we are here for you.

Dry Mouth

A dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. Reduction of saliva flow is a common issue, especially among older men and women. However, men and women of all ages experience the symptoms of dry mouth at one time or another. These symptoms include a dry, red tongue, difficulty swallowing, and persistent sore throat.

Unfortunately, it can bring about a plethora of dilemmas such as cavities and gum disease. A lot of people experience dry mouth because of medications or medical conditions. Make sure you bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge-type joint that allows you to open and close your mouth. If you have pain or clicking in your jaw, you may have TMD. But the first step is diagnosing the cause of the ailment. For example, teeth clenching or grinding can cause or exacerbate TMD. Your dentist can tell if you grind your teeth in your sleep. The condition can also be caused or aggravated by injury or arthritis. Some men and women who are plagued with TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress. If stress is the only cause, stress-reducing practices can help you prevent it or decrease the severity.

Snoring

Your dentist may be able to help you sleep and breathe at night. Many dentists in the Comstock Park area provide Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). With OAT, a custom-made mouthpiece helps keep your airway open throughout the night. If your bed partner tells you that you snore, do him or her a favor and get professional help!

Oral Cancer

Dentists also administer oral cancer checks when they examine a patient. Oral cancer accounts for about three percent of all cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. This amounts to 53,000 new cases annually. That means thousands of Michigan residents receive the grim news every year. Early detection is critical for all types of cancer, but especially so for cancers of the mouth and throat.

Teeth Grinding

Your dentist may also be able to help you with teeth grinding. Tooth grinding while sleeping can wreak havoc on your teeth as well as cause severe headaches.. If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night—schedule a consultation and checkup at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. It’s not just an annoyance, teeth grinding can cause headaches, low quality sleep and put you at risk of tooth decay and gum recession.

Sports Protection

Your dentist may also create custom sports mouthguards. If you or your child participates in a contact sport, talk to your dentist about a quality, custom-fitted mouthguard.

If you have questions about any of these issues or want to schedule an exam, give us a call today. We look forward to meeting you.

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