Let That Winning Smile Shine in Comstock Park

cosmetic dentistry Comstock Park

Everyone in Comstock Park wants a winning smile. But as we age, it can get harder and harder to keep your smile dazzling.

Grappling with yellowed, discolored, stained, or even multi-colored teeth? Teeth whitening might be the answer.

These irregularities are usually simple to fix.

A Brighter, Whiter Smile

The friendly and thorough staff at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry have been brightening smiles since 1974. Let’s review the current state of your smile and guide you to a brighter, whiter look. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, and Invisalign.

A home tooth whitening kit is certainly a cheap tooth whitening option. Meet with Drs. Eric Hull and we’ll work the math with you. How many kits would it take to achieve the same results as in-office teeth whitening?

Keep in mind that there’s more to a great smile than just whiter teeth. Here are the key fundamentals of a dazzling smile:

  • Smooth, consistent color
  • Straight, uniform positioning
  • Proportional tooth size
  • Healthy gums
  • Lack of chips and cracks

Would you like to improve one of these characteristics?

Get clear, trustworthy information about veneers, teeth whitening, clear braces, tooth implants, crowns, and fillings. If you want to know how much dental work will cost, just ask the experts at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry! We have financing options.

Though our office is located in Comstock Park, we serve patients from Grand Rapids as well as Kentwood, Rockford, and Walker.

For dependable, quality cosmetic dental care, Drs. Hull DDS is ready. Let’s discuss the most effective steps to light up your happy, genuine smile. You deserve to shine.

 

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

Battling Bad Breath with the Help of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Grand Rapids Area

Battling Bad Breath Causes and Prevention with the Help of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Grand Rapids Area

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an embarrassing and distressing issue.

However, understanding its root causes and seeking professional guidance can help you maintain fresh and pleasant breaths. Let’s review some common causes of bad breath and how Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Grand Rapids area can be your ally in preventing bad breath and keeping your confidence high.

The Usual Suspects of Bad Breath

Poor Oral Hygiene: One of the primary reasons for bad breath is inadequate oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and bacteria can accumulate in your mouth, leading to an unpleasant odor.

Gum Disease: Untreated gum disease can produce a foul odor. The pockets created by gum recession can trap bacteria and food particles, contributing to bad breath.

Dental Issues: Cavities, infected teeth, and abscesses can release unpleasant odors. These issues should be addressed promptly by a dental professional.

Dry Mouth: Saliva plays a crucial role in rinsing away bacteria and food particles in the mouth. Dry mouth, often caused by certain medications or medical conditions, can lead to bad breath.

Diet and Lifestyle: Consuming strongly flavored foods like garlic and onions can lead to temporary bad breath. Additionally, smoking and alcohol can contribute to foul odors.

How Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry Can Help Prevent Bad Breath

Comprehensive Dental Cleanings: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Grand Rapids area are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene. Our dental professionals can remove plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing alone can’t reach.

Treatment of Dental Issues: If you have cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems contributing to bad breath, our team can provide effective treatment to resolve these issues.

Oral Hygiene Guidance: We offer guidance on proper oral hygiene practices, including the use of mouthwash and tongue scrapers to eliminate bacteria.

Addressing Dry Mouth: If dry mouth is a concern, our dental experts can recommend strategies to alleviate this condition and reduce the risk of bad breath.

Lifestyle Recommendations: Our professionals can advise on dietary choices and lifestyle changes to help you maintain fresh breath.

Bad breath doesn’t have to be a persistent issue in your life. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Grand Rapids area is your partner in preventing and overcoming this common problem. By addressing the underlying causes of bad breath, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and seeking professional guidance, you can enjoy the confidence that comes with a fresh and pleasant breath.

Don’t let bad breath hold you back; schedule a visit with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today and embark on a journey toward lasting oral health and confidence in every breath you take.

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

The Advantages of Implant-Retained Dentures

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

Can I Get a Metal-Free Tooth Implant?

are metal-free tooth implants better? Comstock Park

Many Comstock Park dental patients are turning to metal-free dentistry from Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Instead of amalgam fillings, they select composite and porcelain restorations. Non-metal fillings and crowns can be matched exactly to your natural tooth color. Some men and women are sensitive to the metals used in conventional fillings. Non-metal materials can prevent potential tooth sensitivity.

Controversy Over Whether Dental Amalgam is Toxic

Another one of the issues with dental amalgam is that it contains a small amount of mercury. Some dental patients are concerned that mercury is toxic or harmful to one’s health.

Both the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have reviewed volumes of research and concluded that dental amalgam does not pose a health risk.

“FDA has reviewed the best available scientific evidence to determine whether the low levels of mercury vapor associated with dental amalgam fillings are a cause for concern. Based on this evidence, FDA considers dental amalgam fillings safe for adults and children ages 6 and above. The weight of credible scientific evidence reviewed by FDA does not establish an association between dental amalgam use and adverse health effects in the general population.” (FDA)

Is There a Metal-Free Dental Implant?

That said, many men and women do not want any metal in their mouths, regardless of what the FDA and ADA say. This leads to the question “Is there a metal-free alternative to titanium for dental implant procedures?”

Some implant dentists offer Zirconia implants.

What Are Zirconia Implants?

Zirconia tooth implants are regularly advertised as a non-metal alternative to titanium posts.

Is Zirconia Metal-Free?

As it turns out, the answer to this question is involved. You will get different answers depending on whether you consult a manufacturer of Zirconia tooth implants, an implant dentist who prefers titanium, or a scientist who has no ties to the dental industry.

Consider the following:

“Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a very durable type of metal that’s related to titanium, although it’s categorized as a type of ceramic crown.” (Healthline.com)

“Is it misleading when we call zirconium restorations “metal free”? We all agree that titanium is a metal. Zirconium is chemically a metal and has been used in alloys. Its atomic number is 40. To say that Titanium is a metal and that Zirconium is not is showing a poor knowledge of chemistry. Zirconium dioxide, an oxidized form of Zirconium that is used for restorations, is a metal. We would not call rust — iron oxide — anything but a metal. Now we have a new generation of zirconium dioxide implant fixtures and they are advertised as “metal-free” and calling them ceramic.” (Osseonews.com)

“Zirconium is a silver-gray transition metal, a type of element that is malleable and ductile and easily forms stable compounds.” (LiveScience.com)

How are Zirconia and Titanium Implants Similar?

Both materials are FDA-approved, biocompatible, and safe to use for dental implants.

Why Don’t all Dental Implant Dentists Offer Zirconia Implants?

There are several reasons.

  • Some dental implant dentists don’t believe they are as strong as titanium implants.
  • Some dental implant dentists don’t offer them because they can’t be used in a variety of configurations. For example, they are not suited for complete mouth restorations and implant-anchored dentures.
  • Some dental implant dentists don’t offer them because they believe they have a slight risk of fracture–especially narrow-diameter Zirconia implants.
  • Some dental implant dentists believe they haven’t proven to provide long-term success.

“A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, concluded, “Survival rates and marginal bone loss of zirconia implants are promising, but more evidence on long-term outcomes is needed.” (JADA)

So what do you do if you are interested in getting a dental implant but don’t want titanium in your mouth? Talk to Drs. Hull.

Don’t depend on marketing hype to make critical decisions about dental implants. Schedule a consultation with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General 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

Daily Oral Hygiene: Put Your Heart Into It in Comstock Park

Top Comstock Park Family Dentists Attention dental patients: brushing twice daily may help reduce your risk of heart disease. Scientists, dentists, and cardiologists have known for many years that there is a link between inflammation in the mouth (gum disease) and heart problems, However, a recent study studied oral health habits and heart disease risk. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help with daily oral hygiene. Science Daily reported on the study which was published in the British Medical Journal.

I quote from the Science Daily article:

“The authors, led by Professor Richard Watt from University College London, analyzed data from over 11,000 adults who took part in a Scottish Health Survey. The research team analyzed data about lifestyle behaviors such as smoking, physical activity, and oral health routines.”

“Once the data was adjusted for established cardio risk factors, the researchers found that participants who reported less frequent toothbrushing had a 70 percent extra risk of heart disease compared to individuals who brushed their teeth twice a day.”

The Scottish survey is one of many that substantiates the link between oral health and overall vitality. Simply put: you aren’t healthy unless your gums and teeth are healthy.

It doesn’t matter if you are a lean-distance runner with a pulse of fifteen beats a minute and a blood pressure of 100 over 60. It doesn’t matter if you are a vegan who has eaten a nutritionally balanced, low-fat diet for the past five years. If you have inflamed gums and tooth decay, you are at risk for detrimental problems in other areas of the body.

The phone number for Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is 616-784-2377. If you have concerns about your oral health, I invite you to schedule an examination today.

Perhaps your teeth and gums are healthy but you wish your smile was more attractive. We can help you there also with a cosmetic dental smile makeover. Porcelain veneers, crowns, inlays/onlays, and orthodontia are all available to solve any cosmetic issues you wish to have corrected.

If you have a small child who has not yet visited a dentist, it is important to schedule an exam today. My friendly and thorough team and I will help keep your child’s smile beautiful for life.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100527204227.htm

 

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

 

Is It Growing In Your Mouth?

Grand Rapids restorative dentistry

Believe it or not, plaque can rear its ugly head in any Comstock Park mouth – even yours – no matter how meticulous you try to be. If you have deep grooves, watch out. If you have a receding gum line, watch out. If you are a candy-loving Comstock Park resident with the proverbial sweet tooth, watch out. However, Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help out.

The plaque process goes something like this:
Bacteria naturally occur in the mouth, and always will. Bacteria will try to colonize the smooth surfaces of your teeth. At first, it will be soft enough to be removed with a fingernail. After 48 hours, it will start to harden. Give it 10 days and it will be the substance most difficult to remove, tartar. (See picture.) This bacteria will feed on sugars and produce acid that will eat away the tissues of the tooth and lead to cavities. Cavities will originate on the surface and spread on and through the tooth. The best way to deal with plaque is to have a consistent removal process, i.e. regular daily brushing and flossing after eating and even sleeping.

A fabulous smile with fabulous teeth isn’t always the reality for Grand Rapids, Rockford, Walker, and Kentwood folks. We encourage anyone in the Grand Rapids area who is unhappy with their smile to consider the benefits of a smile makeover.

Cosmetic dentistry can be a significant investment but the truth of just how much it will cost for veneers, braces, dental implants, and even teeth whitening may surprise you. At our Comstock Park cosmetic dentistry office you can expect to learn about implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers, and Zoom! teeth whitening, Six Month Smiles, and any number of other dental services.

Eric Hull has been serving the Comstock Park area since 1974. Call 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation.

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

Unmasking the Threat of Gum Disease and At-Risk Individuals in Grand Rapids

Unmasking the Threat of Gum Disease and At-Risk Individuals in Grand Rapids

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a stealthy adversary that can creep into our mouths with little warning.

For some individuals, the risk of developing gum disease is significantly higher due to various factors. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, located near Grand Rapids, is dedicated to shedding light on the importance of understanding gum disease risk factors and providing tailored care for those who need it most.

The Hidden Menace: Gum Disease

Gum disease is a progressive condition that affects the supporting tissues of the teeth, including the gums and bone. It typically begins with gingivitis, which can manifest as red, swollen, and bleeding gums. Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can lead to tooth loss and impact overall health.

At-Risk Individuals: Who is Vulnerable?

Smokers: Smoking is a significant risk factor for gum disease. It weakens the immune system and reduces blood flow to the gums, making it harder for the body to fight off infections.

Diabetics: Diabetes can compromise the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, making those with the condition more susceptible to infections, including gum disease.

Hormonal Changes: Women experiencing hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menstruation, or menopause, may be at increased risk of gum disease due to hormonal fluctuations that affect gum health.

Family History: A genetic predisposition to gum disease can make individuals more vulnerable, as it can affect the body’s immune response to oral bacteria.

Medications: Certain medications, such as antihypertensive drugs and antipsychotics, can lead to dry mouth, reducing saliva production and increasing the risk of gum disease.

Stress: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fend off infections, including those in the gums.

Prevention and Care at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are committed to treating gum disease and educating our patients about their risk factors and how to prevent its onset. Our approach is tailored to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances.

Comprehensive Assessments: Our team conducts thorough oral examinations to assess the health of your gums and identify any signs of gum disease.

Personalized Treatment Plans: If gum disease is detected, we create customized treatment plans that may include scaling and root planing, laser therapy, or other appropriate interventions.

Education and Prevention: We empower our patients with knowledge about proper oral hygiene practices and lifestyle changes that can reduce their risk of gum disease.

Regular Check-Ups: Routine dental check-ups are essential for early detection and prevention of gum disease. We recommend regular visits to monitor your oral health.

Gum disease can be a silent threat, especially for at-risk individuals. Understanding the risk factors and seeking timely care is crucial to maintaining not only a healthy smile but also overall well-being. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry near Walker, we support you in your journey to gum health. Don’t let gum disease remain hidden; take proactive steps to protect your oral and overall health.

Schedule an appointment with us today and let us be your partners in a lifetime of healthy smiles.

 

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

Missing Teeth? Don’t Miss Out On A Beautiful Smile

Comstock Park cosmetic dentistry

If you have missing spaces in your smile due to tooth decay, injury or any other reason, there is hope! If your existing teeth are stained, decayed, or cracked, there is hope. If your teeth have always been misshapen, or crooked, there is hope. Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can fix it all!

Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, in Comstock Park, Mi, have restored and improved smiles with advanced dentistry since 1974.We know how to handle the toughest cosmetic dental problems. Regardless of the problem, it is usually ideal to retain your natural teeth. If this is not feasible or you have already lost some teeth, we offer numerous options. We can help you preserve (or regain) your ability to eat, drink, speak, laugh, and smile with confidence!

Dental Veneers

If you still have your teeth, but are not happy with them, these might be the best answer. Stunning veneers offer an affordable approach to cosmetic adjustments – uneven color, size, or shape. These are very thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth.

Dental Implant

An implant is a tooth replacement that includes an artificial tooth PLUS an artificial root. With local anesthesia, the artificial root is inserted into the jaw bone where it integrates with the bone. There are three parts to a dental implant: the artificial root, the connecting abutment, and the final crown, partial or denture.

A dental implant is often the best restoration as it offers beauty, strength, natural function, and protection from bone recession that often occurs at the site of a missing tooth.

Dentures/Partials

Most Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Rockford, Sparta and Walker residents have heard of dentures and partials: a plate holding artificial teeth that can be removed for cleaning. Dentures/partials are customized and can contain varying numbers of teeth. Sometimes the entire set of upper and lower teeth have to be pulled and a denture created. Modern dentistry offers a myriad of custom dental implant-denture combinations to restore missing teeth.

There is no need to miss out on an attractive smile. Schedule your consultation with us at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today by call us at 616-784-2377 . We would be honored to provide you with advanced dentistry in the Comstock, Michigan area.

Contact Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

 

 

Cosmetic Dentistry Gives Michigan Residents Perfect Smiles

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry Gives Rockford, MI Residents Perfect Smiles

Dr. Bruce Stewart and Dr. Eric Hull  have been in Comstock Park since 1974. One of our favorite things about being a dentist is seeing how our patients find renewed confidence in themselves after a smile makeover.

If you’ve ever wanted to improve your smile, call our office today at 616-784-2377 so we can talk about your cosmetic dentistry options.

There have been numerous advances in the field of cosmetic dentistry in recent years and you may be surprised to find out what we can do for your smile.

Teeth whitening is a common procedure in many dental offices, and the results can be considerable! Brighter teeth can be the centerpiece of your new, youthful look.

Veneers are designed to cover the front of the teeth and are custom-made for each individual patient. These are useful for patients who have broken or chipped teeth, stained teeth, or gaps between teeth that they would like to correct.

Enamel shapingbonding, and Invisalign orthodontics are other critical procedures that can be used to help your teeth look their best.

So, why wait, Comstock Park? Now is the time to get the attractive smile you’ve always wanted, and we are here to help. The friendly and thorough staff here at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry would love to answer any questions you have about these cosmetic dentistry procedures as well as bridges, crowns, and general oral health.

We are currently accepting new patients, so contact us today!

 

Contact Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, MI
49321

Tooth Whitening: What The ADA Has To Say

Categories: Teeth Whitening

teeth whitening Comstock ParkWhen a cosmetic dentistry procedure becomes popular in the Belmont,  Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI, areas, it’s natural to want to experience the dramatic results for yourself. However, responsible dental patients should know what the American Dental Association has to say regarding common cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening.

The ADA advises patients to meet with their dentist before starting any bleaching regimen. An oral examination that is in-depth will help your dentist to know if tooth whitening is for you. This is especially vital when you have dark stains on your teeth or multiple crowns and/or fillings.

Once you have agreed on a tooth whitening technique, your dentist can supervise your use of whichever bleaching agent you have chosen. This will help you to be sure that the frequency of use of your teeth whitener is never too high.

Or, you and your dentist may choose to have your teeth whitened in the office. Zoom in-office teeth whitening takes much less time than at-home whitening.

Also, if you are shopping for whitening tooth products at your favorite Grand Rapids, Walker, or Sparta drugstore, be sure to look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Along with tooth whitening, there are many other innovative cosmetic dentistry procedures your dentist can recommend, which will help you achieve the dazzling smile you want. These include dental implants, bonding,veneers,  and more!

We are dedicated to oral health and happy patients. We help our cosmetic dental patients love their smile! If you have any questions, please feel free to give us a call at 616-784-2377. A member of the friendly and thorough staff here at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry would love to set up an appointment for you.

Call today!

The following website was used as source material for this blog: https://www.ada.org/en/about-the-ada/ada-positions-policies-and-statements/statement-on-the-safety-and-effectiveness-of-tooth, accessed on August 8, 2014

 

Contact Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, MI
49321