About Our Office

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

 

Nov24

Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In Michigan

Categories: About Our Office, Aesthetic dentistry, Continuing Education

Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In Michigan

Your teeth are among the most important structures in your body. They are responsible for tasks such as biting, chewing, and speaking.

Unfortunately, there are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and long-term disability.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry we want you to be careful with your teeth. Let’s discuss the top seven ways you can break your teeth, so you know what to watch for and when to be the most careful with your oral health in mind.

1. Biting on Hard Objects

Many people have a habit of biting on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or pencils. While this may seem harmless, it can actually cause significant damage to your teeth. Biting on hard objects can cause your teeth to crack, chip, or even break. To avoid this, try to break the habit of biting on hard objects and stick to chewing on food.

2. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth as tools is a common way people break their teeth. For example, using your teeth to open a bottle, tear open a package, or even cutting a piece of tape for that birthday gift can cause damage to your teeth. Always use the appropriate tools for these tasks and avoid using your teeth.

3. Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can cause significant damage to your teeth. Grinding your teeth can cause your teeth to become worn down, cracked, or broken. If you grind your teeth, talk to your Michigan dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry about getting a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

4. Eating Sticky or Hard Foods

Eating sticky or hard foods such as a chewy caramel or piece of hard candy can cause your teeth to crack or break. If you regularly eat these types of foods, try to chew them on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid putting too much pressure on one tooth. Avoid biting those hard candies, too. They taste great, but they can cause a lot of damage.

5.Playing Contact Sports

Playing contact sports such as football or hockey can increase your risk of breaking a tooth. Broken teeth can occur from personal contact, contact with the ground, or contact with equipment. Even soft equipment such as an inflated ball can cause damage. Make sure to wear a mouthguard while playing to protect your teeth from impact.

6. Ignoring Dental Problems

Ignoring dental problems such as cavities or gum disease can lead to weakened teeth. Weak teeth are more prone to breaking. Make sure to visit your Michigan dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly to keep an eye on your oral health and to address any dental issues before they become a problem.

7. Getting Into Accidents

Finally, accidents can happen and they can often result in broken teeth. Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or running into a bar at the playground, make sure to seek dental care as soon as possible if your teeth are damaged. Quick reactions to damage can help ensure the best chances of saving a tooth and limiting damage.

There are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. We encourage you to be aware of these risks and take steps to avoid accidents.

Remember to visit your dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly for checkups and address any dental issues promptly to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

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

Nov10

Tips for Keeping Teeth Clean During Your Workday Michigan

Categories: About Our Office, Aesthetic dentistry, Dental health

Tips for Keeping Teeth Clean During Your Workday Michigan

Maintaining clean teeth throughout the day is essential for oral hygiene, social courtesy, and overall confidence. However, the demands of a busy workday can sometimes make it challenging to prioritize dental care.

Here are some practical tips to help you keep your teeth clean and maintain optimal oral health while at work in your local Grand Rapids area occupation.

Start with a Thorough Morning Routine…

A good oral hygiene routine begins in the morning. Before leaving for work, make sure to brush your teeth for two minutes using a fluoride toothpaste. Pay attention to all tooth surfaces, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Don’t forget to gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen your breath.

Pack an Oral Care Kit…

Preparing a small oral care kit to keep at your workplace can make it easier to maintain dental hygiene throughout the day. Include a toothbrush, travel-sized toothpaste, dental floss or interdental brushes, and mouthwash. Having these essentials readily available will encourage you to prioritize oral care during breaks or after meals.

Practice Proper Brushing Technique After Lunch…

After enjoying your lunch at one of our local Grand Rapids eateries, take a few minutes to freshen up your mouth. If possible, brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of toothpaste. If brushing isn’t feasible, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water to remove food particles and reduce acidity. This simple step can help prevent plaque buildup, minimize the risk of dental issues, and freshen up your breath for the afternoon push.

Embrace Interdental Cleaning…

Regular flossing or using interdental brushes is crucial to clean the spaces between your teeth where a toothbrush may not reach effectively. Keep dental floss or interdental brushes in your desk or oral care kit and use them after meals to dislodge food particles and prevent plaque buildup. This practice not only keeps your teeth clean but also promotes gum health and reduces the risk of cavities.

Choose Teeth-Friendly Snacks…

Snacking can be unavoidable during a busy workday, but it’s essential to choose teeth-friendly options. Opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, or low-sugar snacks like nuts or yogurt. These choices stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food debris. Avoid sugary snacks and beverages, as they can contribute to tooth decay and enamel erosion.

Stay Hydrated…

Drinking water throughout the day not only keeps you hydrated but also helps maintain oral health. Water helps wash away food particles and stimulates saliva production, which plays a vital role in fighting bacteria and maintaining a healthy pH level in your mouth. Keep a reusable water bottle at your desk and make it a habit to sip water regularly.

Limit Coffee and Tea Consumption…

Coffee and tea are common beverages at the workplace, but excessive consumption can stain your teeth and contribute to bad breath. If you indulge in these beverages, try to limit your intake or use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth. Additionally, rinse your mouth with water after consumption to reduce the risk of staining.

Maintaining clean teeth and optimal oral health during the Comstock Park Michigan workday is possible with a few simple habits and preparations.

By prioritizing oral care, practicing proper brushing and flossing techniques, and making wise snack and beverage choices, you can keep your smile fresh and healthy throughout the day. Remember, a healthy smile not only enhances your confidence but also contributes to your overall well-being.

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

Oct13

Don’t Like Dental Visits? Go Anyway.

Categories: About Our Office, Dental health

Helping Comstock Park Love Dental Visits

It’s no secret that many Comstock Park residents dread going to the dentist. Whether they associate dental visits with shame, pain or financial drain, they avoid it at all costs.

See Your Dentist Regularly to Avoid Painful Oral Problems

However, consider the fact that by seeing your dentist regularly, you can abstain from dental procedures like fillings and root canals.

Though it sounds backwards, the truth is that you protect against dental pain by seeing your dentist regularly–even if you hate dental visits.

Oral Health Improves Your Quality of Life

In today’s post, let’s focus on the big picture. We want to make the case that twice-yearly dental visits and following your dentist’s recommendations is essential for a high quality of life.

If you have naturally healthy teeth, you may not appreciate your amazing good fortune. After all, you can eat whatever you want. You aren’t uncomfortable with stained, chipped, or missing teeth. Tooth pain doesn’t interrupt your sleep.

Lucky men and women with great teeth may do fine with limited dental treatment in their twenties and thirties. What we’ve observed, though, is that eventually avoiding exams and cleanings catches up with you.

Do You Have Risk Factors for Oral Problems?

This is especially true for men and women with dental risk factors. These include smoking, recreational drug use, severe alcohol consumption, negligent oral hygiene, teeth grinding, poor eating habits or crooked teeth. Notice that some of these things are a conscious choice, and others, like crooked teeth or teeth grinding may be unavoidable. Regardless, most men and women who forego dental exams and cleanings eventually experience oral conditions.

Gum Disease is The #1 Cause of Tooth Loss in U.S. Adults

The first thing that may come to your mind is cavities. While this is an issue for some middle-aged individuals, it’s actually not the most common dental malady. Gum disease earns the dubious honor as the top cause of tooth loss in U.S. adults.

We Welcome Nervous Dental Patients

If you have neglected your dental needs, we invite you to make an appointment at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. After all, we specialize in making dental treatment comfortable for nervous patients or those who are self-conscious about the state of their oral health. If you are looking for compassionate dental care, Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is here for you. Oral conscious sedation if perfectly safe and there are several levels of sedation, so you don’t have to be out cold if you don’t want to be.

Let’s Restore Your Dental Health

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry we have so many and advanced materials at our disposal to make your smile as beautiful and healthy as it can be. Dental crowns, veneers, implants, teeth whitening, bonding, inlays and onlays, and short term braces are some of the most popular dentistry procedures in and around Comstock Park.

Dental Care at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is Convenient and Affordable

Many Grand Rapids residents are surprised to find that most of these procedures are more convenient than they supposed and more affordable than they expected.

Meet Drs. Hull

I’m Drs. Eric Hull of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry and I want to help you love dental visits and love your smile. I’ve practiced dentistry since 1974, and I find it especially rewarding when patients find renewed confidence after a smile makeover.

At my Comstock Park practice, we offer cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, and porcelain veneers. If you have any questions, the friendly and thorough staff here at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry would be happy to answer them and schedule an appointment to see how we can improve your life by improving your dental health.

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

Jul21

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

Categories: About Our Office, Dental health, General Dentistry

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

As I stand over my sink and contemplate the frayed bristles of my favorite toothbrush, I question whether I should replace it.

It’s a good question. We all brush our teeth on a daily basis. Like a good pair of jeans, it seems the more we use a toothbrush, the more comfortable it gets.

As it turns out, that’s not a good thing when it comes to brushing your teeth.

The angle of the bristles on your toothbrush are an important part of cleaning. Straight bristles scrub your teeth and flex your gums. A light circular motion is enough to clean your teeth without causing damage.

Flat or frayed bristles are less successful and can even cause you to work harder. Pressing harder on your teeth can cause damage.

So how often should you change your toothbrush?

Anyone who has worried about changing the oil in their car has learned this basic rule of thumb; change your oil every three months. It’s the same with your toothbrush.

Most dental professionals recommend a new toothbrush every three months. Your local Comstock Park Michigan dental professionals at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry do, too.

The American Dental Association suggests replacing your toothbrush “every three to four months.”

The reasons to replace your toothbrush includes worn bristles and bacteria. Worn bristles, as we have discussed, are less effective.

Bacteria can also built up in the small gaps of your toothbrush and may contribute to decay and bad breath. Make sure you keep your toothbrush in a sanitary location. Allow for good drying to help extend its life.

Regardless of how long it’s been, if the bristles on your toothbrush look like they’re trying to get away from each other, it’s time. Otherwise, change your toothbrush at the start of every new Michigan season to keep it fresh and effective.

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

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

 

Feb22

3 Point Checklist Before Your Dental Consultation

Categories: About Our Office, Aesthetic dentistry, General Dentistry

family dentist Comstock Park dental consultation

Looking for a dentist because you’re losing the battle with plaque build-up, chipped teeth, tooth pain, stains, or dental caries? At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we can help you restore your smile and get back to enjoying life. Today’s post offers 3 steps to take before you arrive at our office for a dental consultation.

The state of your mouth is essential to your strength both emotionally and physically. Everyone wants to make a positive impression when they smile or speak. We understand that. The look, the odor, the feel, the functionality of your biting surfaces are so important to your everyday experience that we recognize our important role in finding answers to these problems. Of course, your very first step is making contact. Please call 616-784-2377 or visit us at our office in Comstock Park. After you schedule a dental consultation with our team, please take a moment to review the following checklist for a productive appointment experience:

1. Evaluate Your Hygiene Routine and Gaps in Technique or Consistency.
When do you brush your teeth? Do you floss? How often? If not, why? We can take a look at your habits and ascertain what is holding you back, if anything.

2. Identify Pain or Problem Areas Throughout Your Mouth.
Persistent or intermittent? Sharp or dull? Triggered by hot or cold? Living with pain is needless with the technology and expertise available these days. Usually, there are simple solutions to seemingly big pains. Let us address all your aches.

3. Define What You Want Your Smile to Look Like.
If you can describe your ideal smile, we can discuss ways to attain it. There are numerous possibilities for an outstanding smile redesign as well as dental maintenance services. Cosmetic dentistry runs the gamut from teeth whitening to veneers to dental implants.

We welcome questions about the cost of porcelain veneers, the price of filling a cavity, or placing a crown. We have answers for you. We are equipped and trained in dental services perfect for your needs. When it comes to looking for a dentist in Comstock Park or the surrounding communities, please know that you will be in gentle and experienced hands with our friendly and thorough team. We can whiten, brighten, and straighten your smile!

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

Feb15

Save Money with Dental Implants at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Categories: About Our Office, Dental Implants, Oral Health

Grand Rapids Tooth Implants

hen is the least expensive tooth replacement method really the most expensive? The answer is, when it ends up costing far more in the long run. Many dental patients who lose teeth do not understand the importance of replacing them with dental implants.  They believe that one missing tooth is not a significant problem. In fact, some people who have an abscessed tooth extracted are so glad the pain is gone that they forget that the extraction is not the solution. When a tooth is lost, the risk of losing the adjacent teeth increases dramatically. Dr. David Scharf, a Board Certified Periodontist and Dental Implant Surgeon and a Clinical Assistant Professor at New York University College of Dentistry says:

“Many times consumers will choose to replace a missing tooth with a removable partial denture because it is the least expensive option. In the long run however, removable partial dentures may be more costly due the loss of adjacent teeth and the need for future replacements. Many people opt to replace teeth with dental implants because they do not compromise the survival of the adjacent teeth.”

Choosing the least expensive option for your dental needs will sometimes have consequences for your smile and budget.. If you are missing a tooth, you may be a candidate for implant replacement. An implant bonds with the jaw bone and helps maintain its stability. To schedule a consultation regarding dental implants, please call Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 616-784-2377. In addition to implant dentistry, we provide cosmetic dentistry, comprehensive general dentistry, Invisalign orthodontics and Zoom whitening for families in the Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker, and Rockford 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

Feb8

Your Comfort is Our Priority at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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

Kentwood cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Whether you go willingly to your dental check-up, or if you are hesitant about getting dental work done, Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry would be happy to help you improve your smile. At our office, we have opened our doors to smiling patients since 1974. We understand that comfort is the key to happy patients. To make your visit more comfortable we offer Nitrous Oxide, warm neck rolls, blankets, pillows and paraffin hand wax.

Learn About Our Valued Services

A complimentary consultation will inform you of dental services available to enhance your smile. Not only do we offer implant dentistry, but we also see patients for porcelain veneers, dental crowns, Zoom tooth whitening, Invisalign orthodontics, composite fillings, dentures, and more. We offer such as wide variety of treatment options because we want to make a difference in the lives of our patients. We understand that your smile contributes to your happiness and self-esteem, so we want you to have the smile that you deserve.

Schedule an Appointment

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’ll get you in a comfortable seat while we explain to you what we have to offer.   Interested in an outstanding experience? Our team of dental professionals encourages anxious and cautious patients alike to visit us at our 769 York Creek Dr NW office or to give us a call at our office.

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