Dental hygiene

Jan10

The Benefits of Preventative Care at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Preventative Dentistry

Overview of dental caries prevention.Woman at the dentist's chair during a dental procedure. Beautiful Woman smile close upWhen it comes to oral health, prevention truly is better than cure. Preventative dentistry focuses on maintaining strong, healthy teeth and gums while addressing issues before they escalate into significant problems. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, MI, Dr. Eric Hull and his expert team are dedicated to helping you preserve your smile and overall health through preventative care.

What is Preventative Dentistry?

Preventative dentistry includes proactive measures to stop dental problems before they begin. This involves routine checkups, cleanings, x-rays, fluoride treatments, and education on proper at-home dental care. It’s not just about maintaining your teeth—it’s about protecting your overall health.

How Can Preventative Dentistry Benefit You?

  1. Avoid Costly Treatments

Detecting and treating a small cavity is far less expensive than root canals or dental implants. Regular dental visits allow Dr. Eric Hull to catch potential problems early, saving you time, discomfort, and money.

  1. Maintain a Beautiful Smile

Preventative care focuses on protecting your natural teeth, ensuring they stay healthy and aesthetically pleasing. Routine cleanings remove plaque and tartar, keeping your teeth white and reducing the risk of gum disease.

  1. Improve Overall Health

Oral health is directly linked to overall health, with conditions like gum disease often connected to heart disease, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. Preventative care can lower your risk of developing these complications.

  1. Prevent Tooth Loss

Gum disease and untreated cavities are the leading causes of tooth loss. With regular preventative care, such as professional cleanings and early intervention, you can avoid dental extractions and maintain your natural teeth.

  1. Build Good Habits for Life

Patients who invest in their dental health early—especially young patients—are more likely to maintain good habits throughout their lives. Dr. Hull and his team provide valuable guidance on brushing techniques, flossing, and dietary choices to support long-term dental health.

Make Preventative Dentistry a Priority

Life can get busy, but prioritizing your oral health is essential. When you schedule your regular checkups with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, MI, you’re making an investment in your health and well-being. From routine cleanings to personalized care plans, Dr. Eric Hull and his staff are here to ensure your smile stays healthy and radiant.

Don’t wait for a dental issue to arise. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and experience the benefits of preventative dentistry for yourself!

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

Dec27

Tooth Sensitivity Treatment At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Tooth pain

woman in a business suit sipping from a dark blue coffee mug Have you ever been eating an ice cream cone when you experienced a sudden shot of pain in one of your teeth? If the enamel has eroded, or the gums have receded, the dentin layer of the tooth is exposed. The substances that cause tooth pain travel to the pulp where the nerves of the tooth are located. Ouch!

Tooth sensitivity can be an alert that something is wrong. It may be caused by a cavity, periodontal disease, gum recession, or bacteria build-up in a crack in a tooth.

A number of conditions can lead to gum recession including consuming acidic foods and drinks, teeth grinding, or cracked teeth. Surprisingly, one cause of gum recession is brushing too hard. That’s right; it is possible to brush too hard!

If your teeth are sensitive following professional teeth whitening such as the ones we do here at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, the sensitivity will probably be gone in a few days.

If you experience constant or intermittent pain in your teeth or gums, reach out right away to make an appointment. Dr. Hull takes tooth pain seriously.

There are many treatments for tooth sensitivity including desensitizing toothpaste, fluoride treatments, and gum grafting. Of course, if you need a restoration, that is the first order of business.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we not only treat tooth sensitivity, but we also perform entire smile makeovers for our patients in the Comstock Park area.

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

Dec20

Afraid of the Dentist? 5 Ways to Reduce Dental Anxiety

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Oral Health

woman in a dental chair covering her mouth in fear

Talk to your dentist

There’s something about having knowledge on anything unknown that makes us feel less afraid or at least more self-assured handling the unknown. If you consider dentistry an unknown topic, maybe you can educate yourself by asking your dentist lots of questions. Find a dentist willing to listen to your fearful thoughts and concerns so they can better assure you there isn’t much to worry about usually when we talk about our fears someone with more information can help by reducing our uneasiness. They may even eliminate it completely by showing our thoughts to be entirely irrational. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we help our patients battle dental anxiety.

 Meditate

Studies show how incorporating a 10-minute meditation routine can significantly increase our overall feeling of wellness. Think of meditation as a way for you to focus on the present moment and be comfortable with a subtle feeling of relaxation. This will provide a sense of tranquility we don’t always experience in our day-to-day lives. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I dedicated time to focus on the present moment and simply watch life pass, instead of trying to control everything.” With meditation, we can tune in to our natural way of being and more easily distinguish the difference between a real-life threat or an anxious thought.

Bring a friend or family member to your appointments

Sometimes modifying your environment in a way that’s more familiar will reduce uneasiness. A great way of doing this is to bring someone familiar to your dental appointments who can offer emotional support. This could be a close friend or family member who understands how you feel. You should bring someone who is prepared to talk you out of negative thinking patterns. Your companion ideally will comprehend they are there for you and that this isn’t so much about the two of you hanging out socializing. Make sure they are up to the challenge!

Practice good oral hygiene

By having first-rate oral hygiene you can feel more self-confident about your next visit to the dentist. With excellent dental care, you can go to the dentist with a lower chance of having a root canal or being diagnosed with gingivitis, the onset of periodontal disease. See why these conditions may worsen your uneasiness. If you were diagnosed with gingivitis, your mind would have logical reasons for feeling anxious which is not what we want. However, if you’ve been doing the regular brushing and flossing as recommended then there isn’t as much to stress about.

Seek out a therapist

Are you feeling anxious all the time or just while at the dentist? Seeking out a therapist may help with dental anxiety. Your therapist may recommend adjusting your daily routine to help resist both dental anxiety and any anxiety from day-to-day life. Or, your dentist may suggest distinct techniques to focus on while at the dentist. The 3-2-1 technique involves naming 3 things you can hear, followed by 3 you can see, and lastly, things you can feel. Then you reduce the numbers to 2, then 1. This is a beneficial exercise you can do while in a dentist’s office or anywhere you may feel anxious.

 

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

Dec13

Health Habits To Keep You Smiling

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, General Dentistry

family of four gathered around the dinner table eating a healthy meal

In today’s post from Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we will focus on important behaviors that affect oral health. Of course, effective brushing and flossing are two important habits for healthy teeth, but there are many more things we can do to maintain a healthy smile.

Diet Do’s

  • Do eat a nutritious diet with a variety of foods. This is required for overall physical health and a strong immune system.
  • Do enjoy calcium-rich dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt to neutralize acids that are harmful to enamel.

Diet Don’ts

  • Don’t eat sugary foods. Sugar leads to the production of detrimental cavity-causing acids that weaken enamel and lead to decay.
  • Don’t snack throughout the day. This speeds up plaque production and subjects the teeth to continual contact with acids.
  • Don’t chew on ice. (It really can chip teeth.)
  • Don’t drink energy drinks. They have many substances that are dangerous to teeth.

Other Important Tips

  • Don’t use your teeth as tools. It is better to cut that knotted shoelace than to gnaw at it to try to untangle it.
  • Don’t get piercings in or around your mouth.
  • Don’t ignore tooth pain or sensitivity.
  • If you have children, meet with Dr. Hull about water fluoridation. If your municipal water supply is not fluoridated, you may want to give your kids fluoride supplements.
  • Don’t use a medium or hard bristle toothbrush. It can damage gums.
  • If you have an eating disorder—seek professional help right away. Bulimia and anorexia are extremely damaging to teeth. (Not to mention the toll they take on the heart and other organs.)

We encourage all of our patients to maintain a lifestyle that supports dental health as well as overall physical health. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we serve the Comstock Park area with exceptional dental care including general and cosmetic dentistry. Ask us about implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers, and Zoom! teeth whitening.

 

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

Nov22

Find A Few Minutes To Floss

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Oral Health

woman flossing her teeth with a smile

One common excuse often given by people who don’t floss is that the practice is difficult to fit into their daily schedule. If you’ve found this to be true, and feel like you are too busy to floss, here are some suggestions for when to fit this important dental health habit into your day. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we want to instill good oral health habits in all our patients.

  • The most common time is right before bed, but make sure you aren’t too tired to do a good job.
  • Right when you wake up is also an option, but if food is left between teeth all night, it can bring about plaque.
  • Try just after lunch, before you go back to work.
  • Floss while you are in the car sitting in traffic. It’s easier one-handed with the pre-strung floss pics. (You might get some odd looks from other drivers, but it’s worth it.)
  • Keep some floss in your gym bag so you can floss after you exercise.
  • While you’re watching the nightly news.

I hope this gives you some beneficial ideas to help you make flossing part of your daily routine. Flossing is important for anyone in Comstock Park who wants to have a healthy smile.

If you want to upgrade your smile, look into cosmetic dentistry procedures such as porcelain veneers, invisible braces, teeth whitening, or dental implants.

My name is Dr. Eric Hull. Helping my dental patients establish good habits is important to me, as well as helping them obtain the smile they want with cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening and complete smile makeovers.

We are currently accepting new patients, so give us a call at 616-784-2377 to make an appointment!

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

Nov8

We Understand Dental Anxiety in Grand Rapids

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Oral Health

young woman scared in a dental chair

Dental professionals in the Comstock Park area (including the team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry) are dedicated to oral health. Unfortunately, some individuals rarely go to the dentist. Others have the misconception that you only need to go to the dentist when you have a toothache.

In addition, some have severe dental anxiety. Perhaps you fall into this category.

Dental anxiety is real, we get it.

If you are nervous about dental visits, here are a few counsels that may help ease you into scheduled dental checkups. Certainly, enhanced oral health will elevate your quality of life.

Choose a dentist you can trust.

I understand how challenging it can be to seek dental treatment. That’s why I make sure my patients are comfortable before I examine their teeth. First, I ask you many questions. I want to get to know you, and help you get to know me. Communication builds a connection. A connection leads to a trusting relationship.

The more I know about you, the easier I can help you.

Be prepared to provide me with important information about your lifestyle and health. Many men and women are intimidated at a dentist office. Because of this, they may hesitate to disclose sensitive issues.

We are here to help, regardless of your history or oral condition.

There is nothing in your past that we haven’t dealt with. Neglecting oral health. Drug use. Eating disorders. Regardless of your history, we have helped patients with similar dilemmas.

In order to help you, I need complete accurate details. Bring notes if you are worried that you will forget something.

Also, during treatment, tell me what you are experiencing so I can help you feel more comfortable. If we discover that you are going to need a dental procedure more extensive than filling a cavity, let’s discuss conscious sedation.

Oral sedation is safe and effective.

The most important thing to know is that oral conscious sedation or sleep dentistry is perfectly safe. We offer different levels of sedation and a choice of medication including oral analgesics, nitrous oxide, and IV sedation.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our friendly and thorough staff will work to make your visit as pleasant as possible.

 

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

Oct25

A Dentist’s Perspective on Chewing Gum in the Grand Rapids Area

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Family Dentistry

young woman in sunglasses blowing a bubble

Chewing gum has been a favorite pastime for many, but when it comes to oral health, the question arises: Is it good or bad for your teeth?

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we have a mission to serve the residents of Comstock Park, Michigan, and the Grand Rapids area with a professional level of care and comfort. We get a lot of questions about gum chewing, and found this professional perspective on the matter helpful and informative so you can make informed choices about gum chewing.

The Pros of Chewing Gum

Chewing gum, when done correctly, can offer several potential benefits:

Increased Saliva Production: Chewing gum stimulates saliva production. Saliva is nature’s way of rinsing away food particles and neutralizing acids, which can be beneficial in preventing cavities.

Fresh Breath: Sugar-free gum with natural sweeteners like xylitol can help combat bad breath by reducing bacteria in the mouth.

Reduced Acid Reflux: For some individuals, gum chewing can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms by promoting the flow of saliva that can neutralize stomach acid.

Considerations for Healthy Gum Chewing

While there are benefits to gum chewing, it’s essential to follow these guidelines to protect your oral health:

Choose Sugar-Free Gum: Avoid gum with added sugars, which can promote tooth decay. Opt for sugar-free gum with xylitol for added oral health benefits.

Moderation is Key: Chewing gum should be enjoyed in moderation. Excessive gum chewing can lead to jaw discomfort and overuse of the jaw muscles.

Avoid Gum with Aspartame: Some people are sensitive to aspartame, an artificial sweetener used in sugar-free gum. If you experience headaches or other adverse effects, consider gum without aspartame if you are sensitive to this sweet additive.

Don’t Substitute for Brushing: Chewing gum is not a replacement for brushing and flossing. Continue your regular oral hygiene routine.

The Downsides of Gum Chewing

Jaw Discomfort: Excessive gum chewing can strain your jaw muscles, leading to discomfort.

TMJ Issues: Prolonged gum chewing can exacerbate temporomandibular joint issues. That’s a pretty big word that you’ll recognize more commonly as “TMJ.” This can lead to jaw pain and dysfunction, but it can be corrected. If you have TMJ issues, come in and see us soon.

Unsuitable for Some: Not everyone is a suitable candidate for gum chewing, especially those with dental work like braces, dentures, or extensive dental restorations. Take care of those appliances, and save the gum for later.

Chewing gum can be a harmless and even helpful habit for your oral health when done correctly. Opt for sugar-free gum with xylitol, chew in moderation, and use it in addition to your regular oral hygiene routine, not as a replacement. As a dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, serving Comstock Park, Michigan in the Grand Rapids area, I recommend a balanced approach to gum chewing that considers the potential benefits and downsides.

If you have concerns about gum chewing or any other oral health matters, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for professional guidance. Your oral health is our priority, and we’re here to help you make the best choices for 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

Oct4

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit Your Local Dentist

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Family Dentistry

Modern dental office in Comstock Park, MI

In the hustle and bustle of life, amidst our myriad commitments and responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the importance of dental health. However, there’s no better time to prioritize your oral well-being by visiting Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your local friendly dentist.

Here’s why:

1. New Year, New Smile: As we usher in a new year, it’s an opportune moment to commit to better habits and self-care practices. What better way to start afresh than by scheduling a dental check-up at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry? A visit here sets the tone for a year filled with healthy habits and a radiant smile.

2. Preventive Care Saves Money: Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral health issues early, preventing them from escalating into more costly and invasive procedures down the line. By investing in preventive care now at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you’re not only safeguarding your oral health but also saving yourself from potential financial burdens in the future.

3. Advanced Technology for Enhanced Care: Dentistry has evolved significantly in recent years, with advancements in technology revolutionizing the patient experience. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer a range of cutting-edge solutions to ensure your comfort and satisfaction during procedures, from digital X-rays to painless laser treatments.

4. Personalized Treatment Plans: Our team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry isn’t just a healthcare provider; we’re your partners in achieving optimal oral health. We’ll work with you to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals, whether you’re seeking routine cleanings, cosmetic enhancements, or restorative procedures.

5. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry has implemented stringent safety protocols to protect patients and staff. From rigorous sanitization procedures to enhanced ventilation systems, rest assured that your visit to us is not only beneficial for your oral health but also conducted in a safe and hygienic environment.

6. Boost Your Confidence: A healthy, beautiful smile can do wonders for your confidence and self-esteem. By addressing any dental concerns or imperfections at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you’ll not only enhance your oral health but also boost your overall sense of well-being and self-assurance.

7. Setting a Positive Example: Visiting Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry sets a positive example for your family and friends, encouraging them to prioritize their own dental health. By leading by example, you’re promoting a culture of proactive self-care within your community.

There’s no time like the present to prioritize your oral health by visiting Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your local friendly dentist.

Whether it’s for preventive care, addressing concerns, or simply maintaining a healthy smile, we’re here to support you on your journey to optimal oral health and overall well-being. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry!

 

CONTACT ERIC HULL AESTHETIC & GENERAL DENTISTRY:

616-784-2377

LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

Aug9

Smart Brushing Trumps Aggressive Brushing Everytime

Categories: Dental health, Dental hygiene, Oral Health

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

Jul19

No Cavities? Thank Your Parents.

Categories: Dental hygiene, Oral Health

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
  • https://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