General Dentistry

Apr5

Dental Questions? Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry Has Answers

Categories: About Our Office, Dental health, General Dentistry

sealants Walker

Everyone has teeth, and smart people want to take care of their teeth. However, many men and women need a place where they can review basic principles of dental health and get unbiased information about restorative and cosmetic dental procedures such as dental implants, teeth whitening, and veneers.

The Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental blog is your source for this helpful oral care information.

My name is Drs. Eric Hull and I know that many of my dental patients have concerns and questions about their oral care. That’s why I include hot-button dental issues in my blog such as:

Smile Makeovers
Sealants
Invisible Braces
Toothbrush Care
ADA Seal Products
Tooth Protection
Gum Contouring
Dental Implants

I hope that this information will help you make educated decisions about your oral care and any general, restorative, or cosmetic dentistry procedures you may be considering. If you are in the Grand Rapids area and need a professional, family-friendly dental office, call my practice, Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, 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

 

Mar22

The Advantages of Implant-Retained Dentures

Categories: Dental health, Dental Implants, General Dentistry

implant dentures Comstock Park

Are you trading your traditional dentures for implant-stabilized dentures? Implant-retained or implant-stabilized dentures both provide numerous benefits over standard dentures. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our team can help determine if implant-retained dentures are right for you.

Secure in the mouth—no slipping

Provides up to 100% natural chewing function

The upper denture doesn’t cover as much of the palate

This helps patients taste food more easily. (Hooray!)

More comfortable

When dentures are fixed in place, they don’t slip around, allowing the wearer to feel more self-assured in social or professional situations.

Little or no gum irritation

Mouth sores lower the quality of life and can make eating painful.

Doesn’t impair speaking power

Denture wearers recognize how frustrating it is to not be able to speak appropriately. With implant-stabilized dentures, you can regain the ease of talking and laughing.

Stronger

Implant-retained dentures are durable and long-lasting.

Prevents bone loss

When bone recedes, you can get that “sunken face” look. Nothing ages a person more than hollowed-out cheeks.

Allows wearer to eat any type of food

Has it been a while since you’ve taken a bite of a juicy steak or crisp, red apple? It’s time to experience your favorite foods again!

No adhesive required

You won’t miss gluing your dentures into your mouth.

What Are The Differences Between Fixed and Removable?

Fixed implant-retained dentures (sometimes called screw-in) necessitate more implants than the removable type. However, they can restore 100% 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.

Should I get removable or fixed implant-anchored dentures?

The following factors will affect your determination.

Bone Health

Implants require the patient to have an adequate amount of healthy bone structure for placement. The condition of your jawbone influences whether it can support implants and where the posts can be inserted.

Price

Fixed implant dentures cost more but some people believe the merits outweigh the extra expense.

Convenience

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

Preferred Foods

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

Sleep Conditions

Individuals with TMJ or sleep apnea may find it more onerous to manage these conditions if they have to remove their dentures at night.

Now denture wearers have a better option.

 

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

Jan12

Our Top Five Great Toothpaste Recommendations

Categories: Dental hygiene, General Dentistry, Oral Health

Our Top Five Great Toothpaste Recommendations

When it comes to maintaining good oral health in Michigan, using toothpaste is an essential part of daily dental hygiene.

Toothpaste helps to remove plaque and food particles from teeth, preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. It also freshens your breath which makes for a good starting point for social success.

With so many types of toothpaste available in the Michigan market, it can be challenging to decide which one is the best for your specific needs. Let’s take a look at the five top toothpastes you can find in our area. These are great toothpastes, and make for a good start to your oral health:

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Mint Toothpaste

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Mint Toothpaste is an excellent choice in  Michigan for those looking for a toothpaste that offers multiple benefits. This toothpaste helps prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup while also freshening breath and whitening teeth. The toothpaste contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay. The deep clean formula helps to remove stains and leaves teeth feeling clean and smooth.

Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste is an excellent option. This toothpaste is specially formulated to protect sensitive teeth and strengthen tooth enamel. The gentle whitening formula helps to remove surface stains, leaving teeth looking brighter and healthier. The toothpaste is also free of harsh abrasives, making it safe to use on sensitive teeth.

Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste

Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste is another excellent option for those in  Michigan looking for a multi-benefit toothpaste. This toothpaste helps to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup while freshening breath and whitening teeth. This one also contains fluoride, which (as we’ve mentioned) helps strengthen your tooth enamel and creates a barrier against tooth decay. This one has some stain removal capabilities and offers a sharp and clean taste that will give you a fresh-breath feel.

Tom’s of Maine Natural Anti-plaque Toothpaste

If you’re looking for a natural toothpaste option, Tom’s of Maine Natural Anti-plaque Toothpaste is an excellent choice. This toothpaste is made with natural ingredients, including zinc citrate, which helps to prevent plaque buildup and freshens breath. The toothpaste is also fluoride-free, making it a good option for those who prefer to avoid fluoride in their oral care products.

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste is a popular option for those looking to brighten their smile. This toothpaste contains baking soda, which helps to remove surface stains and whiten teeth. The toothpaste also contains fluoride, which (we can’t stress enough) strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay. The minty flavor helps to freshen your breath, leaving your mouth feeling clean and refreshed and ready for your next close social encounter.

Selecting the best toothpaste isn’t the biggest choice you’ll make this week, but it’s essential to choose one that meets your specific needs. The toothpastes listed above are some of the best options available, and each one offers unique benefits to help maintain good oral health.

Regardless, the bottom line is that you need to find a good toothpaste that feels good and encourages you to brush often. A bad-tasting toothpaste, or one that isn’t providing the results you want can result in poor oral health habits, and that’s what we want to avoid.

Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day with your chosen toothpaste, and schedule regular dental checkups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-333-6445

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Jan5

How Do You Choose a Dental Practice For a Dental Implant?

Categories: Dental Implants, General Dentistry, Restorative dentistry

implant dentist Comstock ParkToday’s message is for men and women who have decided to replace a damaged tooth with a tooth implant. Great choice!

Now you need to choose the right dental implant dentist to perform the procedure.

This is a key decision. A dental implant is permanent. It involves oral surgery. It requires a significant financial investment. Making a bad choice of provider can lower your chances for success.

Here are the vital factors to consider:

Experience

  • How many years has the dentist been performing implants?
  • How many tooth implants has he/she done?
  • How many years has the dentist been practicing dentistry?

Patient Reviews

Online reviews are a great resource. Former patients not only give a five-star rating, but some of them share details about their experience. Be sure to check out the reviews for any dentist you are considering. Visit multiple online platforms.

Office Atmosphere

A modern dental practice with the latest technology helps ensure an effective outcome. When you visit the office, ask about their patient amenities. Observe the cleanliness of the office and the friendliness of the team.

What About Price?

You may wonder why we didn’t list price as one of the factors. This was intentional. Choosing an implant dentist by price alone is a bad idea. In the Grand Rapids area, most implant dentists’ prices are comparable. If you find a provider that has slashed the price for implants, be cautious. Find out exactly what is covered. A dental implant consists of a post, abutment, and crown (or denture). Some implant-only clinics advertise the price for the post alone. This is misleading.

How much does a tooth implant cost at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry? Call 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation. We can take a look at your specific implant needs and discuss financing options.

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

Dec28

How to Prevent Tooth Decay In Comstock Park

Categories: Continuing Education, Dental health, General Dentistry

How to Prevent Tooth Decay In Comstock Park

Tooth decay, also known as “dental caries,” is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages in <~City~>. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the sugars in food and produce acid, which erodes the enamel on teeth.

Over time, this erosion can lead to cavities, which can cause pain, sensitivity, and even tooth loss. However, tooth decay is preventable with proper dental care and hygiene.

  • The first step in preventing tooth decay is to establish good oral hygiene habits.

This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing at least once a day. Brushing helps remove plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to decay. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Mouthwash can also be used as an additional step to kill bacteria and freshen breath.

  • In addition to brushing and flossing, it’s important to watch what you eat and drink.

Sugary and starchy foods can provide fuel for the bacteria that cause tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks, such as candy, soda, and fruit juice. Instead, choose foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, which can help clean teeth and stimulate saliva production, which neutralizes acid in the mouth.

  • Another way to prevent tooth decay is to make sure you’re getting enough fluoride.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. Fluoride is often found in tap water, so if your water supply is not fluoridated, talk to us at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry about fluoride supplements. Fluoride is also present in many toothpastes, mouthwashes, and dental treatments.

  • Regular dental checkups and cleanings are also important for preventing tooth decay.

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can examine your teeth for signs of decay and catch problems early, before they become more serious. We can also clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to decay. If Drs. Eric Hull finds any issues, such as cavities or early signs of gum disease, we can recommend treatment to prevent further damage.

In addition to these general preventive measures, there are other steps you can take to protect your teeth in Comstock Park.

  • If you grind your teeth or play contact sports, wearing a mouthguard can help protect your teeth from damage.
  • If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting can help reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
  • And if you have a dry mouth, which can increase your risk of decay, Drs. Eric Hull can recommend products to help keep your mouth moist.

Overall, preventing tooth decay requires a commitment to good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

By brushing and flossing regularly, limiting sugary and starchy foods, getting enough fluoride, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of tooth decay and maintain a healthy smile.

So if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, now is the time to make an appointment. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help you develop a personalized plan for preventing tooth decay and maintaining good oral health for life.

Preventing tooth decay is essential for maintaining good oral health. By following a few simple steps, such as brushing and flossing regularly, eating a healthy diet, and seeing your dentist regularly, you can reduce your risk of decay and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

…So don’t wait – make an appointment with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your Comstock Park dentist today to get started on the path to a healthier 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

Dec15

Creating Memorable Smiles At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Creating Memorable Smiles at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever. You can make your smile memorable and beautiful with a smile makeover at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park.

Cosmetic dentistry is a broad term that specifies dentistry with an emphasis on aesthetics. Rockford and Walker cosmetic dentists perform general dental procedures in addition to providing advanced cosmetic dental treatments. Comstock Park cosmetic dentists have specialized training in the latest cosmetic dental procedures and techniques.

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry cosmetic dentists in Comstock Park are knowledgeable about the processes used to fabricate crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, braces and dental implants. Advances in ceramic and composite materials have boosted the popularity of Grand Rapids cosmetic dentistry but these miracle materials are worthless without a skilled cosmetic dentist to incorporate them into a healthy and beautiful smile.

When designing a dental treatment plan for a patient, the patient’s goals and expectations are discussed. The most skillful cosmetic dentists consider the shape, alignment, color and condition of the teeth. The Michigan cosmetic dental patient’s age, health condition and lifestyle also influence the plan.

If you want to learn about the possibilities for your smile, call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 616-784-2377. We have created memorable smiles for many of your friends and neighbors in the Grand Rapids area.

  • implant dentistry
  • porcelain veneers
  • 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

Nov17

How Tooth Grinding Can Damage Your Smile

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

tooth grinding treatment Comstock Park

What is Tooth Grinding?

Tooth grinding (or bruxism in doctor-speak) is a common behavior among individuals of all ages. It is when a person involuntarily clenches their jaw or rubs their teeth together. Tooth grinding can transpire during the day or night and can affect children and adults. Some individuals grind their teeth intermittently when they are going through periods of unusual stress. For other men and women, it becomes a habit over a period of time.

Regardless of the cause, tooth grinding can be painful and damaging to your smile. It can also have a long-term influence on physical and mental health.

The Dangers of Teeth Grinding

  • It can bring about loose teeth
  • It can cause physical pain in the teeth or face
    • Headaches
    • Jaw pain
    • Ear pain
    • Tooth pain
  • It can break teeth
  • It can wear down the enamel
  • It can cause abnormalities with the alignment of the bite

Tips/Ways to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

  • Wear a mouthguard to bed
  • Botox (injections of Botox into the jaw muscles can prevent the muscles from contracting in some individuals)
  • Biofeedback
  • Physical therapy
  • Stress relief exercises
  • Avoid caffeine
  • Avoid alcohol

Resources to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

  • Speak with Drs.Hull  about a custom night guard or splint
  • Talk to your primary care physician about possible underlying medical conditions
  • Talk to a sleep medicine specialist
  • Talk to a medical professional who is experienced in using Botox to treat medical conditions–these include dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, TMD specialists, and some dentists

If you grind your teeth, we invite you to set up a consultation with Drs. Hull. We can discuss creating a custom night guard to help protect your teeth. We can also refer you to other specialists that can help you overcome the underlying reason for the .

Do You Already Have Tooth Damage from Bruxism?

If you have already damaged your teeth, let’s discuss options for correcting the problems. These might include porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or full crowns to shield against further damage.

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

Nov3

The Vital Link Between Oral Health and Overall Well-being in Grand Rapids

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry, Oral Health

The Vital Link Between Oral Health and Overall Well-being in Grand Rapids

In the intricate tapestry of our body’s health, a thread often overlooked is the profound connection between oral health and overall well-being.

As the gateway to our body, our oral cavity is pivotal in influencing our general health. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, nestled in the heart of Grand Rapids, is at the forefront of understanding and advocating for this crucial link.

Let’s look into the profound connection between oral health and overall wellness and how Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is guiding patients toward a healthier and more vibrant life.

The Oral-Body Connection: Beyond the Surface

Our mouths are home to a diverse ecosystem of bacteria, some beneficial and others potentially harmful. When our oral health is compromised, these bacteria can travel to other parts of the body, potentially contributing to various health issues. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry recognizes that oral health isn’t isolated; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of our overall health.

The Impact on Systemic Health

Cardiovascular Health: Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum disease, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Research suggests a link between gum disease and cardiovascular conditions, emphasizing the need for a healthy mouth to support a healthy heart.

Diabetes Management: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to oral health issues, while gum disease might make it harder to manage blood sugar levels. A harmonious balance between oral health and diabetes management is crucial.

Respiratory Health: Oral infections can potentially affect the respiratory system, exacerbating conditions such as pneumonia. Regular oral hygiene can help prevent these infections and maintain respiratory health.

Pregnancy and Infant Health: Expectant mothers with gum disease might be at a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Maintaining oral health is crucial for both maternal and infant well-being.

The Holistic Approach at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand that a healthy smile is more than just a beautiful appearance; it’s an essential component of overall health. Our experienced team doesn’t merely treat dental issues; we educate our patients about the intricate oral-body connection and empower them to take charge of their health journey.

Promoting a Lifelong Wellness Cycle

Comprehensive Examinations: Our team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry conducts thorough examinations to assess oral health and identify potential signs of systemic concerns.

Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor treatment plans that consider oral health and overall well-being, ensuring a holistic approach to care.

Educational Initiatives: Through workshops and educational resources, we equip our patients with the knowledge to make informed choices for their health.

The connection between oral health and overall well-being is undeniable, and Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is dedicated to illuminating this vital link for our patients in Rockford. As you step into our practice, you’re entering a space where your health is seen as a symphony, with each aspect playing a unique role in the harmony of your well-being.

Book your appointment with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today and embark on a journey toward vibrant oral and overall health. Your journey to a healthier life begins with a 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

Oct28

Starting Chemo? How Are Your Teeth?

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

cancer related tooth risks Comstock Park

If you are scheduled for cancer treatment due to a recent diagnosis or relapse, oral health is probably not your first priority. However, the team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry advises you to give some attention to your teeth to prevent or minimize common cancer-related dental complications.

According to the National Institutes of Health, cancer treatment often takes a heavy toll on dental health.

Common Complications of Chemotherapy and/or Radiation

Inflammation of the mucous membranes
Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections
Mouth dryness (increases risk of cavities)
Poor nutrition due to eating difficulties
Mouth pain
Oral bleeding
Lifelong risk of tooth decay
Loss of elasticity of masticatory muscles (may make opening mouth difficult)
Bone recession due to decreased blood flow
Tooth loss

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park wants to help you maintain oral health before, during, and after your cancer treatment. We offer comprehensive preventative and restorative dental services including implant dentistry, Zoom! teeth whitening, restorative dentistry

We extend to our dental patients battling cancer our sincere hopes for your successful treatment. It is a pleasure to serve your oral health needs.

“Oral Complications of Cancer Treatment: What the Dental Team Can Do,” National Institutes of Health, http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/CancerTreatment/OralComplicationsCancerOral.htm, accessed on May 27, 2014

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

Oct20

General and Family Dentistry in Comstock Park

Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

general and family dentistry Comstock Park

Are you looking for a general and family dentistry practice in the Comstock Park area? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We are taking new patients at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

11 Reasons to Visit Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park

Let’s discuss some reasons to call today to set up an exam and consultation at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

  1. Dental Exam: This is the best way to prohibit dental problems. Perhaps you already have some problems. Address them as early as possible. Then you can avoid more extensive (and expensive) treatments in the future.
  2. Cleaning: Our dental hygienists are ready to give you a super clean smile. A professional dental cleaning makes your mouth look and feel amazing!
  3. Brush Up: It’s a good idea to come in for a refresher course on correct dental hygiene if it’s been a while.
  4. Toothache: If you have dental pain–from a cavity, abscess or other reason–call now to schedule an appointment. Don’t live with pain another day.
  5. Cavities: We can fill any dental cavities quickly. This will help you skip more painful dilemmas later. Plus, we can replace old silver fillings with tooth-colored fillings.
  6. Tooth Sensitivity: Let’s figure out what is making your teeth sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages.
  7. Keep Gums Healthy: Let’s check the health of your gums and discuss treatments to help you improve them or reverse gum disease.
  8. Brighten Up: If your smile is yellow, gray or has stains, we can help. There are several tooth whitening options available that will improve your smile.
  9. Replace a Missing Tooth: If you are missing a tooth, we can help restore your smile with the latest in tooth replacement technology.
  10. Cosmetic Dentistry: We can help you evaluate the options for achieving a stunning smile.
  11. Confidence: Nothing brings you more confidence than a healthy, remarkable smile.

If you are new to our practice, I want to discuss anything that will help you feel confident in me and my team:

  • My education and experience, including specialties and certifications
  • My philosophy of preventative dentistry
  • My recommendations about your dental needs
  • Before and after photos of my smile redesign patients
  • My office atmosphere and the attentiveness of my helpful professional dental team
  • All the extras and amenities at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry that make dental visits pleasant and comfortable
  • My ability to explain the technical details of procedures and characteristics of restorative materials

Thanks for visiting the Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry blog. 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