Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing Everytime

cost of dental crowns Grand Rapids

Most men and women brush their teeth (at least we hope so). However, there are many who brush incorrectly but don’t realize that their dental hygiene practices may be contributing to oral problems. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we want to instill great oral healthcare habits in all our patients.

They may pride themselves on their daily dental hygiene, but frequency does not make up for an incorrect approach. One of the most common errors—especially for adolescents—is speedy, aggressive teeth cleaning with a hard bristle toothbrush.

There is a certain logic to this technique; when you want to clean smooth surfaces like bathroom tiles, you scrub with a hard brush, right? The trouble is that teeth and soft tissue have different characteristics. While enamel is strong, the soft tissues in the mouth are not designed for intense scouring.

If you use hard bristles against possible cavity makers, froth at the mouth, speed through those 30 inches of the tooth surface, and spit everything out in less than a minute, this message is for you.

Effects of Quick, Hard Brushing
:

  • Decay from missed food particles
  • Damage to teeth through abrasion
  • Weakened enamel
  • Tooth Sensitivity
  • gum recession
  • Damage to existing dental work
  • Tartar build-up

The friendly dental hygienists at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park teach patients the proper way to brush their teeth. With a slow, deliberate two minutes twice daily, you can take control of your dental hygiene, improve your oral health, and lower the risk of future problems.

Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing:

  • Plaque is soft enough to scratch off with a fingernail, so brush accordingly with soft bristles
  • Angling the toothbrush requires little effort with consistently cleaner results
  • Proper tooth brushing can prolong that wonderful professional-cleaning feel
  • Flossing is easier without sore, bleeding gums

If you have already damaged your teeth or gums through aggressive or haphazard brushing, it’s critical to fix those dilemmas and get back on track. Call 616-784-2377 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric Hull of 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

No Cavities? Thank Your Parents.

how to prevent cavities Comstock Park

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we stay abreast of new discoveries in the exciting field of dentistry and occasionally share interesting facts with our patients. Today’s post focuses on new findings in an intriguing field of research: genetic dentistry.

“About 60% of the risk for tooth decay appears to be due to genetic factors.” Mary L. Marazita, director of the Center for Craniofacial and Dental Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine.1

Whoa! Did she say 60%? That’s huge. You might be thinking: “That’s why I brush and floss but still get cavities.” Or, better yet, you might be thinking, “No wonder I have never had a cavity but eat candy often and occasionally go to bed without brushing.”

Multiple studies have confirmed that many tooth decay risk factors have a genetic link. Here are some of them:

Enamel Strength

Your genes play a critical role in the composition of your tooth enamel. Soft enamel is more cavity-prone.

Sugar Cravings

Whether or not you love sugar has a genetic basis. Now you can blame your parents if you pop M&Ms all day. (But it still isn’t good for your teeth or waistline!)

Chemical Composition of Saliva

Your saliva can protect against cavities – if it properly metabolizes critical minerals and vitamins like calcium, potassium, iron, and Vitamin C. Your genes influence your saliva’s capacity to prevent decay.

Immune Response to Bacteria

We don’t like to think about the dangerous bacteria in our mouth but, hopefully, our immune system is ever-vigilant at fighting their constant attempts to cause decay and gum disease. The durability of your immune system is determined, in part, by genetics.

Genetic Researchers are Working to Develop New Treatments

In the next few decades, scientists in the emerging specialty of genetic dentistry may play a critical role in the development of new cavity-prevention techniques.

Proper Oral Hygiene is Critical–Regardless of Your Genes

The purpose of this article is not to encourage Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry patients to be lax about oral hygiene if their parents have strong teeth. Nor to cause those whose teeth decay easily to throw their hands up in despair and resign themselves to a toothless mouth.

Proper oral hygiene is important for all of us, regardless of our genetic predisposition to tooth decay. You can be energetic about your oral health, regardless of the genes you inherited. Whether you have frequent dental check-ups, consistent fluoride intake, effective brushing and flossing techniques, and proper nutrition, is up to you.

If you need a thorough dental exam, an expert dental cleaning, a refresher course on proper brushing and flossing, or want to improve your smile with cutting-edge cosmetic dentistry, call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation.

  • https://www.colgate.com/en-in/oral-health/gum-disease/teeth-and-genes
  • http://www.cnn.com/2014/07/03/health/tooth-decay-causes/

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

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

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

Dry Mouth Can Cause Dental Problems in Grand Rapids

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

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

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

Preventing Facial Injuries in Comstock Park

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

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

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

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

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

 

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