Dental health

Jul12

Avoid Bone Deterioration Following a Tooth Extraction

Categories: Bone Recession, Dental health, Extractions

Comstock Park Jaw Bone Deterioration Hello, friends of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry! In today’s post, we will talk about jaw bone health.

Those tooth roots are important!

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

Have you had a tooth extracted?

In some cases, tooth extraction is the only possible procedure for men and women with tooth damage beyond repair. However, we make every effort to preserve the root structure. When a tooth is extracted, the jaw bone that surrounds the former root structure begins to recede.

A dental implant replaces both the root and the crown of an extracted tooth

Fortunately, tooth implants provide a new, artificial root that helps to keep the surrounding bone healthy and strong. A dental implant is comprised of a durable titanium post which replaces the original root and eventually integrates into the surrounding bone.

After the implant has been placed and the surrounding bone has healed and meshed with the implant, a post is inserted into the implant. The new artificial tooth, or crown, is then attached to the post. Implant restoration is a safe and effective treatment for tooth loss.

Are dental implants a good option for you?

For more information about dental implants, call Dr. Eric Hull at 616-784-2377. The friendly and thorough team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry provides world-class dental treatment for patients in Comstock Park and the surrounding areas.

We can whiten, brighten, and straighten your smile!

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Jul5

4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Grand Rapids Area

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Oral Health

4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Grand Rapids Area

Maintaining good oral hygiene in the Grand Rapids area is essential to overall health and wellness. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe your teeth and gums are the foundation of great personal health.

Most of us in the Grand Rapids area brush our teeth twice a day. This is good practice and makes for a good start to your oral health. However, many people overlook the importance of flossing. Flossing is just as important as brushing, if not more so.

Here are four good reasons why flossing your teeth is so important:

Flossing Removes Plaque and Food Particles

Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that forms on teeth and gums. It’s a major cause of tooth decay and gum disease. While brushing can remove some of the plaque from the surface of your teeth, it can’t always reach the areas between your teeth. Flossing is a convenient way to remove plaque and food particles from these hard-to-reach areas.

Flossing Prevents Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. It can eventually lead to tooth loss. Flossing can help prevent gum disease by removing the plaque and food particles that can lead to inflammation and infection. It can also help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

Flossing Reduces Bad Breath

Perhaps most importantly for most of us, flossing can help prevent bad breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and unpleasant. It is often caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce foul-smelling gases. Flossing can help reduce bad breath by removing the food particles and bacteria that can contribute to the problem.

This single benefit alone makes flossing worth the effort, but we have one more big one…

Flossing Saves Money

Flossing is a simple and inexpensive way to prevent more serious oral health problems. By taking care of your teeth and gums through regular flossing, you can avoid expensive dental treatments down the road. This can save you both time and money in the long run.

Come into Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a quick check-up and we can help guide you with a prevention plan that includes regular flossing. We can also recommend useful tools that will help you maintain good oral health within your lifestyle. For example, there are many new products on the market today that make flossing a lot easier and much more convenient.

Flossing is an essential part of good oral hygiene. It can help prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

 

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

Jun28

Dry Mouth Can Cause Dental Problems in Grand Rapids

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene

dry mouth treatment Comstock Park

A reduction of saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common problem, especially among older people. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we can help with this condition.

A dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it can cause tooth damage. Saliva is required to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Extensive decay can occur in the absence of saliva for dental patients with chronic dry mouth.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

  • Dry, red, or grooved tongue
  • Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
  • Sticky feeling in the mouth
  • Saliva that seems thick and stringy
  • Bad breath
  • Problems chewing, speaking, and swallowing
  • Changes in taste
  • Difficulty wearing dentures (Mayo Clinic)

Contributing elements include medications and treatments, reduction in the body’s power to metabolize medication, chronic health issues, and poor nutrition.

For example, chemotherapy medication can reduce saliva production, and radiation treatments to the head and neck can damage salivary glands, decreasing saliva production.

Other medical problems include diabetes, stroke, or yeast infection in the mouth.

Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers (all used extensively in Comstock Park) are some of the medications that can result in dry mouth.

It is common for allergy-prone Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental patients to complain of dry mouth when they start taking antihistamines during the hay fever season.

The following can also contribute to dry mouth:

  • Snoring or breathing through the mouth
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Tobacco use (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco)
  • Recreational drugs

If you experience dry mouth, it’s important to pay special attention to your dental health. The first step is to talk to a professional. Call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric Hull.

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

Jun21

Toothache Relief at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park

Categories: Dental health, Oral Health

urgent dental clinic Comstock Park

A toothache is probably the most common dental problem we see at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. However, they have multiple causes. A toothache can come on gradually–or attack with full force.

1. You sip a cold drink and–bam!–tooth pain.

When a cavity has eroded enamel it eventually hits the layer underneath. This is called the dentin. This layer is softer than enamel and is filled with tiny tubules. A cold (or acidic) beverage that seeps into the tubules can hit the nerve (or get close enough) to make you cringe. If this happens to you, call our office today. You may have a serious cavity. If you get treatment ASAP, you may save the tooth.

2. You bite down hard–ouch!

Tooth pain that accompanies biting could be a sign of an infection or abscess in the pulp of the tooth. It could also stem from a microscopic crack. Regardless of the cause, you need to have it treated. Otherwise, you could lose the tooth.

3. Wait a minute–is something moving around in there?

Unless you are a kindergartener excited for the tooth fairy, it’s not a good sign to suddenly feel that a tooth is loose. In an adult, it could be the result of an injury to the tooth. The bump could have stretched some of the small ligaments. These are the cords that hold the tooth in place. Perhaps you can’t recall bumping your tooth or mouth. If this is the case, you could have a nighttime tooth-grinding issue. Tooth grinding while sleeping can wreak havoc on your teeth as well as cause severe headaches.

Another possibility is gum disease. Periodontal disease is caused by a bacterial infection that can destroy both gum tissue and the ligaments that hold the teeth in place. This advanced form of gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults.

Don’t ignore a toothache!

Waiting too long to care for your teeth can lead to health issues—and not just in your mouth. If you have a toothache, loose tooth, or other pressing dental issue, we encourage you to call our office today to schedule an appointment.

We offer sedation dentistry

If you have dental anxiety, at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry we understand. Many of our patients experience dental anxiety or complete dental phobia. We offer sedation and anti-anxiety medications to help you get through your treatment.

 

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

Jun7

Do I Need A Dental Cleaning If I Brush And Floss At Home in Comstock Park, MI?

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Oral Health

dental cleanings Comstock Park

Today’s post from Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on professional dental cleanings. You might wonder if you need a professional dental cleaning if you already practice dental hygiene daily at home.

The answer is that both processes are vital because they work in tandem to maintain oral health.

Dr. Eric Hull encourages patients to practice preventative dentistry by:

Brushing
Flossing
Healthy diet – fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts
Regular dental cleanings
Regular checkups

Dental cleanings increase the effectiveness of your daily oral care by removing the plaque and tarter that can accumulate regardless of daily brushing and flossing. In fact, when plaque hardens, it can only be removed with the special tools used by a hygienist.

A hygienist will first use a vibrating ultrasonic tool to dislodge the largest pieces of tartar. This process may tickle a bit. The hygienist will then use tools with finer attachments to remove the smaller pieces of calculus. When all plaque and tartar is gone, polishing is the final step in the cleaning process.

The goal is to make your tooth surfaces as smooth as possible, to prohibit food particles from lodging in small spaces that are difficult to clean. If you are having an exam during the same visit, your technician may take dental x-rays. X-rays can reveal cavities while they are small and can be easily filled.

Let your hygienist know if your teeth are sensitive so he/she can make your cleaning as comfortable as possible. After the cleaning, a fluoride treatment may be given to help strengthen your teeth.

Before your hygienist leaves, you may want to ask if there are areas you can improve. Your hygienist can tell you which tooth surfaces had the most build-up. If the back teeth are presenting a problem, you can meet with Dr. Hull about sealants.

If you have braces, you may want more frequent dental cleanings because food can easily lodge between the wires.

Call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 616-784-2377 to schedule a professional cleaning today! Your smile will thank 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

May24

Preventative Maintenance For Your Irreplaceable Smile

Categories: Dental health, General Dentistry, Oral Health

Preventative Maintenance For Your Irreplaceable Smile In Comstock Park

Hi, I’m Eric Hull of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. If you are one of my patients, welcome back. If this is your first visit, I appreciate you stopping by.

My friendly and thorough team and I love taking care of our valued patients in the Comstock Park area. Today’s article is for smiles that are overdue for a cleaning and exam.

What is a Deep Dental Cleaning?

During dental deep cleanings, our hygienists thoroughly remove the plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. By scaling and planing, they remove areas where bacteria can easily multiply.

Schedule a Professional Cleaning Today

We are devoted to preventative dentistry to keep your smile healthy and beautiful.

An Exam is Not Just to Check for Cavities

After one of our skilled hygienists cleans your teeth, I perform a thorough examination. I check for overall tooth and gum health, the presence of cavities, gum pocket depth, bite issues, and signs of oral cancer.

You Could Have a Dental Problem Without Knowing It

Some men and women mistakenly believe that they can skip dental visits if they don’t notice anything out of the ordinary. This attitude is risky. Many dental problems advance silently. When the patient experiences pain, much damage has been done. Gum disease, especially, often progresses unnoticed.

No Dental Insurance? No Problem!

If you don’t have dental insurance, ask us about dental financing options. It is far less expensive to prevent dental problems than to treat them after they have become severe. If you perform regular auto maintenance, you understand the wisdom of prevention. Don’t you value your smile far more than your vehicle? Call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule preventative maintenance for your irreplaceable 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

May17

Let’s Work Together To Keep Your Smile Healthy And Beautiful in Comstock Park, MI

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental health

low cost tooth bleaching Grand Rapids

Here at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we approach all your oral health needs from two separate angles—what we can do in our dental practice and what you can do at home.

For example, tooth whitening and correcting discoloration can be treated in our office or at home. Here in the office, there are safe and effective methods for brightening yellowed or stained tooth enamel. At-home whitening methods are also safe and effective and sometimes more affordable.

Additionally, we advise you regarding food and drink choices that can affect your whitened smile. Be aware of staining agents such as coffee, tea, tobacco, and soda. We understand that abstaining from these items altogether is not an easy lifestyle change. Nor do we expect it.

Awareness and precaution can make a big difference. Rinsing your mouth out with water after drinking a dark or sugary beverage can cut down on the contact your teeth have with it and help neutralize the acids. Prolonged exposure to sugar can lead to buildup of plaque and tartar and prolonged exposure to staining substances can negate the results of teeth whitening.

If you are interested in making improvements to your smile and creating a more confident appearance for your professional career or personal relationships, please pick up the phone and contact the fantastic staff at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today.

Come discover personal attention with porcelain veneers, the patient and steady hand with Zoom! teeth whitening, the wise and thorough instruction relating to implant dentistry. Once you’ve scheduled a consultation, expect expert guidance that will make your daily oral care and lifestyle choices productive and meaningful.

When it comes to hygiene and healthy teeth we are a practice that wants to see you as little as possible. (It’s not that we don’t love you—we just want you to have a healthy smile!) If we only see you twice a year for regular checkups then we’ve done our job. Check out our website at https://www.greatmismiles.com/ or come in for an evaluation and recommendations.

Dr. Hull provides the full spectrum of dental services from cosmetic dentistry to cosmetic dentistry to Invisalign.

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

May10

Preventing Facial Injuries in Comstock Park

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene

Grand Rapids Sports Dentistry Facial injuries occur all too often in the Grand Rapids area. Rockford Little Leaguers get hit by inside pitches, Kentwood construction workers suffer falls and other accidents at the worksite, and Michigan motorists sustain injuries in detrimental collisions every single day. Accidents at home can also result in serious injury to the face. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are committed to the use of protective equipment to safeguard teeth for every type of sport, whether it is a team sport or individual activity.

Serious facial injuries can affect the victim’s ability to eat, breathe, and speak. Because of the vital physical processes at risk, a person who has suffered a facial injury should receive medical care as soon as possible. Injuries to the mouth are treated by general dentists and oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

Likewise, the Grand Rapids workplace injury rate can be reduced with increased use of appropriate protective equipment and adherence to important safety procedures. With respect to Comstock Park motor vehicle injuries, the following instructions bear repetition: Wear your seatbelt, and don’t send or read text messages while driving!

If you have suffered a recent injury to your face, mouth, or jaw, schedule a dental consultation with Eric Hull of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. If you are having dental problems (functional or aesthetic) due to an untreated past injury, we can develop an effective treatment plan.

 

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

Apr26

The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups in Comstock Park Michigan

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, General Dentistry

The Crucial Habit and The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park Michigan

One of the most essential habits for maintaining a healthy smile and a healthy body is getting regular dental check-ups. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, Michigan, we understand the importance of these routine appointments and are committed to providing you with the care you need to keep your smile in its best shape.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

One of the most fundamental reasons for regular dental check-ups is prevention. When you visit Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for your regular check-up, our skilled dental professionals can identify and address issues at their earliest stages, often before you even notice any symptoms.

Preventing dental problems is more effective, less painful, and less expensive than treating them once fully developed. Routine cleanings and check-ups help to remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. By catching and treating issues like cavities early, we can help you avoid more extensive procedures down the line.

Oral Health is Connected to Overall Health

As we have well established, your mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of your body; it’s a crucial part of it. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. When you take care of your oral health through regular dental check-ups, you also take care of your overall health.

Maintaining a Beautiful Smile

Regular dental check-ups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, Michigan can help you maintain a beautiful smile. A professional cleaning can remove stains and plaque that dull your teeth, leaving you with a brighter, whiter smile. Additionally, our dental professionals can provide guidance on cosmetic procedures that can enhance your smile if you desire.

Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not detected and treated in its early stages. During a routine dental check-up, our team will thoroughly examine your mouth. Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Building a Relationship with Your Dental Team

Consistent dental check-ups also allow you to establish a relationship with our dental professionals at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. We get to know you, your unique oral health needs, and your preferences. This familiarity can make your visits more comfortable and help us tailor our care to your specific requirements.

Regular dental check-ups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, Michigan are not just about keeping your teeth clean; they are about safeguarding your overall health and well-being. By making dental check-ups a part of your routine, you can enjoy a healthier, more beautiful smile and peace of mind in knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to care for your oral and overall health. Don’t wait until problems arise; schedule your next dental check-up today and invest in a lifetime of smiles.

 

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

Apr12

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

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Gum Disease

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