Author: Dr. Eric Hull

Sep13

Spotlight-Ready Smiles

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry

what are dental implants

A mouth full of unattractive teeth can distract from anyone’s appearance. But a spotlight-ready smile, like what you can get with cosmetic dentistry from Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Comstock Park, can bring you increased satisfaction and confidence in your social interactions.

Cosmetic dentistry is that branch of dental science that creates positive changes to your teeth and your smile. We believe that cosmetic dentistry should enhance the overall dental health of our patients.

Some of the most popular procedures include:

  • Porcelain veneers. Veneers are bonded to the teeth to provide strength and add beauty to any smile.
  • Dental implants. Implants are titanium posts that are implanted into the jaw, where they act as replacement roots to missing teeth. One implant can support an artificial tooth, while a group can support bridges or dentures.
  • Teeth whitening. Who doesn’t want whiter teeth? Professional teeth whitening can brighten your smile far better than any product you’ll find at the store, giving you a brilliant smile.

These are just some of the cosmetic dentistry procedures at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Comstock Park that transform smiles every day. We  offer restorative, cosmetic and family dentistry. Schedule your next checkup with us today!

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

 

ArticleID 6435
Aug2

Think You Know How To Brush? Think Again.

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, Oral Health

Comstock Park tooth brushing tips

ESSENTIAL DENTAL HEALTH

Brushing your teeth is an important part of any daily health care routine. We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day, and with a soft-bristled toothbrush. We strongly recommend flossing, too. Before or after you brush? The jury remains out on that one. We think before is better, but the most important thing is that you do it.

Be sure to get all over your teeth: the front and the sides, inside and out, and the tops. When you brush the sides, be sure you brush along the gumline. Use a gentle touch, and hold the brush at a 45-degree angle.

As you brush the front and side surfaces, move the brush in gentle, circular strokes.

TOOTHPASTE

Use a pea-sized blob of fluoridated toothpaste – or more than a pea-sized, if you’re so inclined. Too much toothpaste is no big deal, but be sure to use enough.

Be sure the head of the toothbrush isn’t too big, especially if you have a smaller mouth. It needs to fit easily between your cheeks and gums. The handle is less important. Make sure it feels comfortable in your hand. Replace your toothbrush every three months, if not more often.

TOOTH MASSAGE

We mentioned using a gentle touch. Plaque is soft and loose, so you don’t have to scrub really hard to remove it. Think of it not so much as brushing, but massaging your teeth. Keeping that in mind should help you keep that light touch.

Finally, brush for at least two minutes. If you’re running late, and are tempted to cut it short, resist. If it helps, use a stopwatch. You’ve probably got one on your smart phone.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we want the best possible dental health for all of our patients. We offer family and restorative dentistry. Schedule your next checkup with us today!

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

 

ArticleID 7193
Jul19

Gum Disease And Tooth Loss

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry, Gum Disease, Oral Health

One out of every ten American adults is likely to get some form of gum disease by the time they’re sixty-four years old. At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we provide treatment for gum disease.

First things first. Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss, and is associated with health issues like diabetes and heart disease. So brush and floss your teeth every day – twice a day, in fact. If you don’t, your chances of getting gum disease increase.

In addition to age, other risk factors for gum disease include tobacco use. Health experts say that tobacco is one of the most significant risk factors for getting gum disease. If you don’t smoke, don’t start, and if you do smoke (or chew), quit.

It appears some people are genetically predisposed to gum disease. Even when they take great care of their teeth, such people may still be more likely to get it. If you think it runs in your family, don’t despair.  Getting early intervention treatment may help.

Stress, too, is another risk factor for gum disease. Stress may make it more difficult for the body to fight off infection.

Poor nutrition and teeth grinding or clenching can also put you at greater risk of developing gum disease.

Finally, certain medications can affect your oral health and make you more prone to gum disease. If you have any concerns, ask us at your next appointment.

If you are showing any signs of gum disease at all, such as bleeding when you brush your teeth, let us know at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park. We also offer a full range of family and cosmetic dentistry services. Schedule an appointment with us today.

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

 

ArticleID 6724
Jul12

Watch Out For Hidden Sugar

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry

Family Dentist Comstock Park

Most of us consume far too much sugar. That isn’t exactly a news flash, but at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we want to remind you what sugar can do to your teeth, and what you can do about it.

We get cavities when acids in the mouth attack the enamel and dentin of the teeth. The acid is produced by bacteria in plaque, that sticky film that forms on the surfaces of teeth. When sugar is introduced it interacts with the bacteria in the plaque, and makes the acids, which attack the teeth and cause cavities.

That’s why it is so important to choose food and drink wisely. But it isn’t easy, is it? Sugar seems to be in just about everything, even things you wouldn’t suspect, like ketchup. Health experts say the average person in the United States consumes about 19.5 teaspoons of sugar every single day. That is twice as much as recommended by the American Heart Association!

Knowing how much sugar is in the food that you buy is vital: not just to your teeth, but to your overall health. Reading ingredient labels on processed foods is essential.

Of course, some things are obvious. Eliminate or minimize the sweet stuff, like soda, candy, cookies, cakes, and donuts. Sweet things may seem to make life worthwhile, but there is a high cost.

If you have an incurable sweet tooth, you might try softening the blow by eating more fruit. The natural sugars in fruit aren’t as harmful as those in processed foods. And remember this: a very wise person once said that we like the things that we learn to like.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park we care about the dental health of each of our patients. So cut back on sugar, brush your teeth at least twice a day, don’t forget to floss, and see us for a professional cleaning and checkup every six months. Our services include general, cosmetic and family dentistry. Schedule your next appointment with us today.

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

 

ArticleID 4601
May10

Think A Missing Back Tooth Is No Big Deal?

Categories: Dental health, Dental Implants

dental implants Comstock Park

Most people are self-conscious about a missing tooth in the front of their mouth. It may not be fair, but a gaping hole in a smile has negative connotations in most social circles. Dental implants from Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park are an ideal solution.

A person who loses a front tooth usually makes a plan for a dental restoration ASAP. But when someone loses a molar, they are more likely to leave the gap. “You can’t really see it when I smile, right?” “I have other teeth back there, I can chew with those.” If the tooth had been hurting, sometimes they are so relieved that the pain is gone, they consider the extraction the final answer.

The aim of this article is to dispel the myth that a missing back tooth has no consequences.

Bone Recession

Since we can’t see the bone that anchors our tooth roots, we don’t often consider its condition. The health of the jawbone plays an essential role in overall oral health. When a tooth is extracted, the bone at the extraction site shrinks and recedes over time. Since a dental implant replaces the tooth root, it maintains the health of the bone. In so doing, it also protects the bone for the adjacent teeth.

The jawbone is the foundation of the lower face. If it shrinks and recedes, everything that sits on top of it will follow suit. An individual with bone recession will eventually get that “sunken in” look that can make them look a lot older than they really are. A dental implant, unlike a dental bridge, preserves the framework of the face.

Shifting Teeth

Another vulnerability is shifting teeth. If teeth adjacent to the extraction site start moving, it can trigger a domino effect. The unopposed tooth on the opposite arch can also move, though it typically moves outward from the bone (over-eruption).

In addition to esthetic implications, teeth that are displaced are in jeopardy of gingivitis, decay, TMJ pain, or bite problems. There will also be additional stress on the teeth that take over the chewing functions—compromising their strength as well.

A dental implant from Stewart & Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Comstock Park is the most optimal way to treat a missing tooth but not the only option. Call our office to schedule a complimentary consultation to see if you would be a candidate for implants and other options that are available. Our office also offers restorative dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign orthodontics, partials/dentures and much more! Schedule an appointment with us today.

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

 

ArticleID 8080
May3

Preventive Dentistry At Stewart & Hull

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we have a prevention-oriented philosophy of dental health care.

Patients of all ages need to start with an exam to determine their current status. Your dental condition is influenced by your dietary habits, previous dental work, physical health, medications, lifestyle and family history. After a comprehensive analysis, we can establish a decay prevention plan just for you.

A prevention plan is a multi-faceted approach designed to maintain optimum dental health. Twice-yearly exams reveal early problems before they progress. Professional cleanings prevent a multitude of serious dental issues.

Oral health cannot be maintained solely in our office. Daily brushing and flossing is essential. A healthy diet is necessary and will deliver benefits to your whole body – not just your teeth.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, the dental health of each patient is our top priority. Services include family, cosmetic  and restorative dentistry. Schedule your next checkup with us today.

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

 

ArticleID 1386
Apr19

Which Type of Toothbrush is Best?

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, Oral Health

Toothbrush Wars in Grand Rapids

This message from Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park centers on whether a manual or electric toothbrush is better for your dental health.

It may surprise you to know that some people have very strong opinions about which type of toothbrush is the best. Is there really one that is clearly superior?

Most dentists will tell you that all toothbrushes, when used properly, are effective at removing plaque. Choosing which is best for you is really a personal decision. Here is some extra information about toothbrushes to help you settle upon which kind is right for you or your child.

  • You need to consider cost and convenience. Some people argue that even though electric toothbrushes cost more, you’ll save on dental bills. However, there are no definitive studies to back up this claim.
  • Manual toothbrushes are easy to find, whereas not all drugstores carry all types of electric toothbrushes. This can be problematic when buying replacement heads. When you travel you may find that a manual toothbrush is easier to pack.
  • Special consideration should be taken for individuals with arthritis. Most dentists counsel their patients with dexterity issues to use electric toothbrushes. As for children, once they are old enough, an electric toothbrush may be preferable, but safety should always be the first concern of parents.

Whichever type of toothbrush you choose, make sure you get soft bristles and replace it every three to four months.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, the dental health of each of our patients is always our top concern. We provide Invisalign orthodontics, porcelain veneers/crowns, composite fillings, implant dentistry, sealants and much more with our  family and cosmetic dentistry. Schedule your next appointment with us today.

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

 

ArticleID 3696
Apr5

Solving Tough Dental Problems

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers

solve tough dental problems Comstock Park

Have you ever been told that your smile is beyond repair? That may not be true. At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we perform dental miracles almost every day.

Problem : Tetracycline Stains
Solution: Porcelain Veneers

Perhaps as a teen you were prescribed tetracycline to combat acne, and as a result now have discolored teeth. Or maybe the water you drank growing up had excessive fluoride, another cause of tarnished teeth.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we treat severely discolored teeth with porcelain veneers. Veneers not only restore discolored teeth; they can cover worn, chipped, and cracked teeth. This is done by placing a thin composite of porcelain over the damaged tooth or teeth, leaving an attractive, white smile. Porcelain veneers are one of the least invasive forms of cosmetic dentistry.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, porcelain veneers are among the many cosmetic dentistry procedures we make available. Please call our office to schedule an appointment with us today.

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

 

ArticleID 7516
Mar29

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

Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Dental Veneers, Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers, Teeth Whitening

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

 

 

Mar15

At Stewart & Hull Cosmetic Dentistry Is Our Art

Categories: About Our Office, Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Crowns, Dental Implants, Dental Veneers, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Invisalign

Comstock Park Cosmetic Dental Artistry

Cosmetic Dentistry is part science and part art.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Comstock Park, Michigan, we enjoy using our extensive dental training and artistic skills to design treatment plans unique to each of our cosmetic dentistry clients.

In order to achieve an attractive, yet natural looking result, we do much more than recommend specific procedures. We consider the shape, alignment, color and condition of the teeth too. In order to create a balanced look, facial shape and coloring is also taken into account.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Comstock Park, Michigan area, we enjoy using our extensive dental training an, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan. We have used our artistic abilities over several years to create smile transformations for cosmetic dentistry patients. There are so many options these days. Teeth whitening and porcelain veneers have advanced considerably. Dental implants are a truly remarkable solution for those who have lost one or more teeth.

One of the things that makes our practice stand out is our commitment to our craft. For example, Dr. Stewart was the first dentist in Michigan to be accredited by the prestigious American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Dr. Hull is currently pursuing his Accreditation (AACD).  There may be over 6,000 members of the AACD, but fewer than 400 have passed the rigorous process of becoming accredited. The process includes presenting “before and after” pictures of actual patients before a panel of examiners. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull have also has attained fellowship status in the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Fewer than 10 percent of dentists nationally have become fellows in the AGD.

Both Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull believe in individualized care. Every one of our patients gets the level of service and care that they need because we take the time to understand your needs and discuss a variety of options for you to consider. We are extremely proud of the dentistry we do. Be sure to check out some “before and after” pictures of our work.

We would love to perform a personalized smile makeover for you. When the work has been completed we believe that you will love your new look and others will assume you have always been blessed with a naturally beautiful and healthy smile. Call us today at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Comstock Park, Michigan area, for your personal consultation.

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