Family Dentistry

Dec6

How Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry Near Grand Rapids Can Help You Avoid Pain

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, Oral Health

young woman holding her hand to her jaw and suffering from tooth pain

Tooth pain, often described as one of the most agonizing experiences, can stem from various causes, from the mundane to the serious.

Understanding the root of tooth pain and seeking professional care is paramount to maintaining a pain-free smile. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Grand Rapids, we’re committed to helping you prevent and alleviate tooth pain, ensuring that your smile shines as brilliantly as a radiant orange sunrise.

The Culprits Behind Tooth Pain

  • Tooth Decay: Cavities, the most common cause of tooth pain, occur when acids from bacteria in your mouth eat away at the enamel, creating tiny holes that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth.
  • Gum Disease: As the gums become inflamed and recede due to infection or poor oral hygiene, the roots of your teeth can become exposed, leading to pain and sensitivity.
  • Cracked or Fractured Teeth: A broken or cracked tooth can cause excruciating pain, especially when chewing or exposing it to extreme temperatures.
  • Tooth Sensitivity: Tooth sensitivity can result from exposed dentin, a layer beneath the enamel, due to gum recession or enamel erosion. It can cause discomfort when consuming hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and beverages.
  • Impacted Wisdom Teeth: When wisdom teeth don’t have enough space to grow properly, they can become impacted, leading to severe pain and potential infection.

Preventing Tooth Pain through Dental Visits

Regular dental visits at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Grand Rapids are a crucial step in avoiding tooth pain. Here’s how professional care can help:

  • Early Detection: Routine check-ups can identify dental issues in their early stages, preventing them from becoming painful problems.
  • Professional Cleanings: Our dental team can remove plaque and tartar buildup, which, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
  • Education: We provide guidance on proper oral hygiene practices and offer tips to protect your teeth from sensitivity and pain.
  • Treatment Options: If tooth pain is already an issue, Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry offers a range of treatments to alleviate pain and restore your oral health.

How Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry Can Help You

Our team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is committed to providing compassionate and expert dental care. We understand that tooth pain can be debilitating and have a significant impact on your quality of life. By choosing us, you’re making the proactive choice to maintain a pain-free smile.

Tooth pain can be disruptive, but it’s not something you have to endure alone. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Grand Rapids, we are your partners in preventing and alleviating tooth pain.

Don’t let your smile be overshadowed by discomfort. Schedule a visit with us today, and together, we can ensure that your teeth remain pain-free and brilliantly beautiful.

 

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

Feb9

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Michigan

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, Oral Health

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Michigan

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and one area of the body that is particularly vulnerable to injury is the mouth, including the teeth. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we specialize in tooth injuries.

Tooth injuries can range from minor chips and cracks to more severe cases such as fractures or avulsions (complete tooth displacement). Understanding the causes, types, and immediate actions for tooth injuries is crucial for minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and preserving dental health.

If you experience a tooth injury, come into Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry as soon as possible and we can help you make a plan for repair, recovery, and long-term care.

In the meantime, let’s take a look at common Michigan tooth injuries, their causes, and what steps to take in case of an emergency.

Causes of Tooth Injuries

  • Tooth injuries can occur due to various factors, including:
  • Accidental Falls: Falling can result in impact to the face, causing teeth to hit hard surfaces.
  • Sports Injuries: Contact sports or recreational activities without proper mouthguards can lead to tooth injuries from collisions or falls.
  • Vehicle Accidents: High-speed collisions or sudden stops can cause severe trauma to the face and mouth.
  • Biting Hard Objects: Biting down on hard foods, ice, or non-food items can cause tooth fractures or chips.
  • Physical Altercations: Punches, kicks, or other forms of physical violence can result in tooth injuries.

Types of Tooth Injuries

  • Fractured or Cracked Teeth: These injuries involve partial or complete fractures of the tooth structure. They can range from minor cracks affecting only the enamel to more severe fractures extending into the dentin or pulp.
  • Chipped Teeth: This type of injury involves a small piece of the tooth enamel breaking off, usually caused by a direct impact.
  • Luxation Injuries: Luxation refers to the abnormal displacement of a tooth. It can include subluxation (tooth pushed out of alignment), extrusion (tooth partially pushed out of the socket), lateral displacement (tooth moved sideways), or intrusion (tooth pushed into the socket).
  • Avulsion: Avulsion occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out from its socket. Immediate action is crucial in attempting to save the tooth.

Immediate Actions for Tooth Injuries

In case of a tooth injury, it’s important to take immediate action at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry to minimize damage and maximize the chances of saving the tooth.

Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Stay Calm: Remaining calm helps you think clearly and act effectively.
  2. Assess the Injury: Examine the affected tooth and surrounding area to determine the severity of the injury.
  3. Control Bleeding: If there is bleeding, rinse your mouth gently with warm water and apply a clean piece of gauze or a tea bag to the area for about 10 minutes. If bleeding persists or is severe, seek immediate medical attention.
  4. Preserve the Tooth: If a tooth is completely knocked out (avulsed), try to re-implant it into the socket, if possible. Handle the tooth by the crown (top part) and avoid touching the root. If re-implantation is not possible, place the tooth in a container with milk or a saline solution to keep it moist.
  5. Seek Dental Care: Regardless of the severity of the injury, it is essential to visit your dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry as soon as possible. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can assess the injury, provide appropriate treatment, and offer guidance for optimal recovery.

Preventing Tooth Injuries

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are preventive measures that can significantly reduce the risk of tooth injuries:

Wear Protective Gear. When engaging in contact sports or activities with a risk of dental trauma, use a mouthguard or helmet with a face shield to protect your teeth.

Avoid Biting Hard into foods. Biting into a bone or other unexpected obstruction can result in chipped or broken teeth.

Avoid using your teeth as a tool. It’s sometimes natural to use your teeth to open packages or to hold items while you tug at them. This is a risky practice that can result in damage to your teeth.

Be safe out there, and protect your teeth from injury. If you need a recommendation for tooth protection during work or sports, come into Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, and let’s talk about it.

 

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

Dec15

Creating Memorable Smiles At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Creating Memorable Smiles at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry A smile takes but a moment, but the memory of it lasts forever. You can make your smile memorable and beautiful with a smile makeover at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park.

Cosmetic dentistry is a broad term that specifies dentistry with an emphasis on aesthetics. Rockford and Walker cosmetic dentists perform general dental procedures in addition to providing advanced cosmetic dental treatments. Comstock Park cosmetic dentists have specialized training in the latest cosmetic dental procedures and techniques.

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry cosmetic dentists in Comstock Park are knowledgeable about the processes used to fabricate crowns, veneers, inlays, onlays, braces and dental implants. Advances in ceramic and composite materials have boosted the popularity of Grand Rapids cosmetic dentistry but these miracle materials are worthless without a skilled cosmetic dentist to incorporate them into a healthy and beautiful smile.

When designing a dental treatment plan for a patient, the patient’s goals and expectations are discussed. The most skillful cosmetic dentists consider the shape, alignment, color and condition of the teeth. The Michigan cosmetic dental patient’s age, health condition and lifestyle also influence the plan.

If you want to learn about the possibilities for your smile, call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 616-784-2377. We have created memorable smiles for many of your friends and neighbors in the Grand Rapids area.

  • implant dentistry
  • porcelain veneers
  • 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

Nov17

How Tooth Grinding Can Damage Your Smile

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

tooth grinding treatment Comstock Park

What is Tooth Grinding?

Tooth grinding (or bruxism in doctor-speak) is a common behavior among individuals of all ages. It is when a person involuntarily clenches their jaw or rubs their teeth together. Tooth grinding can transpire during the day or night and can affect children and adults. Some individuals grind their teeth intermittently when they are going through periods of unusual stress. For other men and women, it becomes a habit over a period of time.

Regardless of the cause, tooth grinding can be painful and damaging to your smile. It can also have a long-term influence on physical and mental health.

The Dangers of Teeth Grinding

  • It can bring about loose teeth
  • It can cause physical pain in the teeth or face
    • Headaches
    • Jaw pain
    • Ear pain
    • Tooth pain
  • It can break teeth
  • It can wear down the enamel
  • It can cause abnormalities with the alignment of the bite

Tips/Ways to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

  • Wear a mouthguard to bed
  • Botox (injections of Botox into the jaw muscles can prevent the muscles from contracting in some individuals)
  • Biofeedback
  • Physical therapy
  • Stress relief exercises
  • Avoid caffeine
  • Avoid alcohol

Resources to Help Stop Grinding Your Teeth

  • Speak with Drs.Hull  about a custom night guard or splint
  • Talk to your primary care physician about possible underlying medical conditions
  • Talk to a sleep medicine specialist
  • Talk to a medical professional who is experienced in using Botox to treat medical conditions–these include dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, TMD specialists, and some dentists

If you grind your teeth, we invite you to set up a consultation with Drs. Hull. We can discuss creating a custom night guard to help protect your teeth. We can also refer you to other specialists that can help you overcome the underlying reason for the .

Do You Already Have Tooth Damage from Bruxism?

If you have already damaged your teeth, let’s discuss options for correcting the problems. These might include porcelain veneers, dental bonding, or full crowns to shield against further damage.

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

Oct28

Starting Chemo? How Are Your Teeth?

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

cancer related tooth risks Comstock Park

If you are scheduled for cancer treatment due to a recent diagnosis or relapse, oral health is probably not your first priority. However, the team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry advises you to give some attention to your teeth to prevent or minimize common cancer-related dental complications.

According to the National Institutes of Health, cancer treatment often takes a heavy toll on dental health.

Common Complications of Chemotherapy and/or Radiation

Inflammation of the mucous membranes
Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections
Mouth dryness (increases risk of cavities)
Poor nutrition due to eating difficulties
Mouth pain
Oral bleeding
Lifelong risk of tooth decay
Loss of elasticity of masticatory muscles (may make opening mouth difficult)
Bone recession due to decreased blood flow
Tooth loss

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park wants to help you maintain oral health before, during, and after your cancer treatment. We offer comprehensive preventative and restorative dental services including implant dentistry, Zoom! teeth whitening, restorative dentistry

We extend to our dental patients battling cancer our sincere hopes for your successful treatment. It is a pleasure to serve your oral health needs.

“Oral Complications of Cancer Treatment: What the Dental Team Can Do,” National Institutes of Health, https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/OralHealth/Topics/CancerTreatment/OralComplicationsCancerOral.htm, accessed on May 27, 2014

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

Oct20

General and Family Dentistry in Comstock Park

Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

general and family dentistry Comstock Park

Are you looking for a general and family dentistry practice in the Comstock Park area? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We are taking new patients at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

11 Reasons to Visit Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park

Let’s discuss some reasons to call today to set up an exam and consultation at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

  1. Dental Exam: This is the best way to prohibit dental problems. Perhaps you already have some problems. Address them as early as possible. Then you can avoid more extensive (and expensive) treatments in the future.
  2. Cleaning: Our dental hygienists are ready to give you a super clean smile. A professional dental cleaning makes your mouth look and feel amazing!
  3. Brush Up: It’s a good idea to come in for a refresher course on correct dental hygiene if it’s been a while.
  4. Toothache: If you have dental pain–from a cavity, abscess or other reason–call now to schedule an appointment. Don’t live with pain another day.
  5. Cavities: We can fill any dental cavities quickly. This will help you skip more painful dilemmas later. Plus, we can replace old silver fillings with tooth-colored fillings.
  6. Tooth Sensitivity: Let’s figure out what is making your teeth sensitive to hot or cold foods and beverages.
  7. Keep Gums Healthy: Let’s check the health of your gums and discuss treatments to help you improve them or reverse gum disease.
  8. Brighten Up: If your smile is yellow, gray or has stains, we can help. There are several tooth whitening options available that will improve your smile.
  9. Replace a Missing Tooth: If you are missing a tooth, we can help restore your smile with the latest in tooth replacement technology.
  10. Cosmetic Dentistry: We can help you evaluate the options for achieving a stunning smile.
  11. Confidence: Nothing brings you more confidence than a healthy, remarkable smile.

If you are new to our practice, I want to discuss anything that will help you feel confident in me and my team:

  • My education and experience, including specialties and certifications
  • My philosophy of preventative dentistry
  • My recommendations about your dental needs
  • Before and after photos of my smile redesign patients
  • My office atmosphere and the attentiveness of my helpful professional dental team
  • All the extras and amenities at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry that make dental visits pleasant and comfortable
  • My ability to explain the technical details of procedures and characteristics of restorative materials

Thanks for visiting the Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry blog. We look forward to meeting 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

Oct6

The Good, Better and Best for Dental Health

Categories: Dental health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

cosmetic dental Grand Rapids

Even if you value a healthy smile, it’s easy to become somewhat lax about smile-friendly lifestyle choices. In today’s post, our goal is for you to analyze where you stand and examine whether you could step it up a notch. Committing to oral health best practices can prevent future problems and support your quality of life.

Brushing

Good: Brush teeth once a day.
Better: Brush teeth effectively after each meal.
Best: Brush after each meal and floss appropriately before bed.

Dental Checkups

Good: See your dentist if you get a toothache.
Better: See Drs. Hull once a year even if you don’t notice any dental dilemmas.
Best: Twice-yearly, have a thorough dental exam and professional dental cleaning at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

A White Smile

Good: Use a whitening toothpaste.
Better: Use a tooth whitening system at home.
Best: Schedule an in-office tooth bleaching procedure.

Missing Tooth

Good enough for some people: Ignore it. (We don’t recommend this.)
Better: Get a quality dental bridge.
Best: Restore your smile with a beautiful, stable, and natural-functioning dental implant. (Consult with Drs. Hull to find out if you are a good candidate for an implant.)

Smile-Friendly Nutrition

Good: Eat a healthy diet.
Better: Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary snacks and beverages.
Best: Eat a wholesome diet, limit between-meal snacking, eat lots of calcium-rich foods, limit sugary snacks, abstain from energy drinks and soda, and sip water throughout the day to keep acid at bay.

For Young Smiles

Good: Never put your infant to bed with a bottle. When your toddler starts drinking from sippy-cup, don’t let them sip juice or milk all day.
Better: Follow the previous guidance and schedule his/her first dental checkup before the first birthday.
Best: In addition, speak with Drs. Hull about dental sealants when your child is young. When your little athlete starts participating in sports, make sure he/she wears a protective mouthguard. Set a good example of daily dental hygiene and healthy lifestyle choices.

Hello, I am Drs. Eric Hull. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are dedicated to the best in dentistry. We invite you to call 616-784-2377 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting 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

Sep29

What is the Recovery Time for a Dental Implant?

Categories: Dental Implants, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

dental implant recovery time Comstock Park

What is the recovery time for a permanent tooth implant procedure?

There isn’t a standard timeline because there are many variables involved.

Each patient’s treatment plan is unique.

Here are some factors that affect the recovery time for a dental implant procedure.

  1. Is a tooth extraction necessary?
  2. Will I need to have a bone graft (and/or sinus lift) before getting the implant?
  3. Will I receive anesthesia during the procedure?

Tooth extraction

If you need a non-viable tooth pulled, it may be possible to receive a tooth implant on the same day. As long as you have enough strong, healthy jawbone in which to anchor the implant.

Bone graft

As soon as a tooth is removed, the bone begins to recede. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement procedure that prevents or (greatly reduces) bone deterioration.

If teeth at the implant site have been gone for a while, the bone may have shrunk. Bone can also be weakened or destroyed with a severe infection.

An important decision is whether an implant patient needs bone augmentation.

In a bone grafting procedure, an oral surgeon or dentist packs bone material into the area where the implant will be placed.

If the implant will be placed in the upper arch, you may need a sinus lift treatment. When bone matter shrinks in parts of the upper jaw, it may cause the floor of the sinus cavity to fall into the space created.

A sinus lift procedure is done in conjunction with a bone graft. The goal is to raise the floor of the sinus cavity to make room for the additional bone material.

After the bone graft, you need to wait until the new bone has integrated with the existing bone. This will create a strong and stable foundation for the implant.

Recovery after a bone graft procedure

Day of procedure: Though bone grafting requires oral surgery, don’t let the term “surgery” give the impression that it has a long recovery time. The site will be sore, but most patients can take care of it with Ibuprofen or aspirin.

It doesn’t take much longer than filling a cavity. Most patients can return to work the next day.

If swelling or pain increases a few days after the procedure, contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

After a bone graft, how long until I can get my implant?

The fusing process can take several months. You don’t want to rush this because successful implantation requires a sturdy foundation.

Recovery after implant placement

Just as with the bone graft procedure, the implant placement procedure can be completed in less than two hours. If you elect to have IV sedation, however, you will need to wait until the effects of the sedation have worn off.

You will probably experience the following post-procedure:

  • Pain at the implant site
  • Minimal bleeding
  • Swelling and/or bruising of the gums and cheeks

These effects should subside after a few days. Ice packs used on the outside of the face can alleviate swelling. Call our office if these symptoms persist.

NOTE: It is not necessary for a permanent tooth implant recipient to be unconscious for the dental process. A local painkiller is usually sufficient. However, people with dental anxiety may elect stronger sedation.

Healing abutment

Your dentist may mount a temporary healing abutment to the post during the initial surgery. A healing abutment is sometimes called a ‘healing cuff’ or ‘healing cap.’

Make sure you practice daily oral hygiene but be extra careful when cleaning around the surgical site.

It’s vital to follow all post-procedure instructions. And be sure to make the recommended follow-up visits.

Smoking can make it harder to heal from any type of oral surgery.

After a permanent dental implant has had time to fuse with the bone, you will have an appointment to attach the abutment.

Attaching the abutment

This is a fairly quick and easy service. Your dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue at the implant site to expose the post. Then the abutment is attached. Your dentist may place the prosthesis (artifical tooth crown, dental bridge, or denture/partial denture) at the same time. Or your dentist may wait until your gums have healed.

Tooth implants can give you a beautiful new smile. To keep it beautiful and avoid further issues (like decay or an infection):

  • Practice proper oral hygiene—keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy
  • Eat a nutritious diet
  • Don’t chew on hard foods or other items
  • If you grind your teeth, seek treatment.
  • Have a twice-yearly dental exam and cleaning

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we restore missing teeth with dental implant procedures. Dental implant placement studies have found a five-year success rate of 98%.

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