Saving Teeth at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park

Root Canals in Comstock Park When a tooth is threatened by severe decay, periodontal disease, or damage from an injury, a skilled dentist or endodontist must make a judgment call concerning the course of treatment. If the pulp of the tooth is infected or inflamed, a root canal is typically the only way to save the tooth.

During a root canal procedure (or endodontic treatment), the soft tissue in the root of the tooth is removed. This tissue contains veins, arteries, and lymph vessels. Once the roots are taken out and widened, they are filled with a special rubber material.

The root canal is only the primary step in complete tooth restoration. After the root canal, without a crown, the tooth will become dry and brittle. The concluding procedures are the core build-up and crown.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we fabricate strong, natural-looking crowns that blend perfectly with the surrounding teeth. With proper oral hygiene and twice-yearly visits to your dentist, a tooth with a filled root can often function problem—free for the rest of a patient’s life.

I am Dr. Eric Hull, DDS, of Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. I have been practicing dentistry since 1974. During that time I have seen hundreds of teeth saved by this effective dental procedure. Root canal therapy has a very high success rate.

Because teeth with infected pulp tissue often do not produce symptoms, it is critical to have regular dental examinations. I can determine which (if any) teeth have infected roots. If the infection in the soft pulp tissue is left untreated, it can progress to a point where the tooth cannot be saved.

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

Are Your Eating Habits Sabotaging Your Oral Health?

dental enamel erosion treatment Comstock Park

Most Comstock Park residents know that frequently eating foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Therefore, it’s important to limit candy, soda, cookies, etc. Also, remember that frequency is as dangerous as the amount of sugar.

Research has found that a higher frequency of sugar consumption may lead to demineralization more than the amount of sugar consumed. In other words, eating sugary foods in small amounts on a regular basis can do more harm than eating the occasional sugar-laden dessert. (Healthline)

Tooth Enamel Varies in Density

Before we discuss the issue further, let’s review the miracle substance that protects our teeth: enamel. While enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s not invincible. In fact, it demineralizes (loses some of its density) when it comes in contact with sugar, acids and bacteria.

Let’s explore additional eating habits and how they can affect oral health.

Acid is as Bad as Sugar

First, let’s talk about acids. A plethora of both healthy and unhealthy foods and drinks are acidic. Soda pop and energy drinks are especially harmful because they have sugar and acid, a dangerous combo. Plus, they provide virtually no nutrition. However, you probably don’t want to limit all acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Many acidic foods and beverages are high in Vitamin C and other nutrients.

You can protect your teeth by eating these things as part of a meal to limit the acidic effects. It is a good idea to eat a variety of healthy foods such as chicken, cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts, and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will advance tooth remineralization.

Meal Timing Makes a Difference

The more often you eat the more often your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be eased by choosing healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat, the more likely you will skip brushing and flossing altogether.

Enamel Erosion

While the enamel is soft, the tooth is vulnerable to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the onslaught continues, the much softer dentin underneath is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, you may lose the tooth.

Understand Which Foods are Acidic

Broadly speaking, the normal diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are considered acidic. We don’t recommend cutting out healthy foods. We just want you to be aware of them so you can make better choices.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have enamel erosion. Call us to schedule an appointment and Drs. Hull can examine your teeth and discuss it with you.

Is Your Go-To Beverage Affecting Your Teeth?

Now let’s talk about liquids. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Comstock Park teenagers that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their densest. As mentioned, energy drinks have a multitude of teeth-damaging ingredients. Dentists are noticing the effects of their increasing popularity.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can stimulate the remineralization process.

Xylitol Gum

If you choose to chew gum to stimulate saliva production, a good choice is a gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually beneficial for your teeth.

Several clinical studies have established that xylitol prohibits the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also minimizes plaque and strengthens tooth enamel.

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

6 Ways To Prepare For Your Dental Procedure

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Nervous about an upcoming procedure? Let Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry offer 6 ways to prepare yourself mentally, emotionally, and physically before your big dental day.

First, remember Drs. Eric Hull is trained to provide the best care and comfort possible.

Second, take some time to relax and pinpoint what you are uneasy about. Take deep breaths and slowly let them out as you weigh the reasons for and against taking these steps to a better you. Remember that many men and women have been in your shoes and everything worked out fine.

Third, know your medical history. You may be asked to complete a medical history and medications form, so be sure you know what medications and supplements you are currently taking and review past hospitalizations and illnesses.

Fourth, have a dental plan. Come in for a thorough consultation. If we know all the dental work or cosmetic dentistry you want to get done, then we’ll know if combining any of it can save you time and money. We offer implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers, Zoom! teeth whitening, and Six Month Smiles to name just a few.

Fifth, trust the outstanding staff at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry to guide you through the before, during and after the process. We’ve been doing this since 1974.

Sixth, our final important suggestion! Ask all the questions that you want to be answered before you have dental tools and gloved hands in your mouth!

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

Your Dentist Provides Comprehensive Oral Care

Categories: General Dentistry

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How does your dentist help you stay healthy?

Most people know that they can go to their dentist if they chip a tooth or have a toothache. Because of this, they may not realize how many other health problems your dentist can help you with.

A full-service dental practice provides comprehensive oral health care.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is usually due to bacteria build-up in the mouth. Perhaps, however, you have unpleasant breaths even though you brush and floss daily. If that’s the case, speak with your dentist. She or he can help you discover the cause of your problem. It could be an infection or a side effect of prescription medications. You need a professional diagnosis and we are here for you.

Dry Mouth

A dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. Reduction of saliva flow is a common issue, especially among older men and women. However, men and women of all ages experience the symptoms of dry mouth at one time or another. These symptoms include a dry, red tongue, difficulty swallowing, and persistent sore throat.

Unfortunately, it can bring about a plethora of dilemmas such as cavities and gum disease. A lot of people experience dry mouth because of medications or medical conditions. Make sure you bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge-type joint that allows you to open and close your mouth. If you have pain or clicking in your jaw, you may have TMD. But the first step is diagnosing the cause of the ailment. For example, teeth clenching or grinding can cause or exacerbate TMD. Your dentist can tell if you grind your teeth in your sleep. The condition can also be caused or aggravated by injury or arthritis. Some men and women who are plagued with TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress. If stress is the only cause, stress-reducing practices can help you prevent it or decrease the severity.

Snoring

Your dentist may be able to help you sleep and breathe at night. Many dentists in the Comstock Park area provide Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). With OAT, a custom-made mouthpiece helps keep your airway open throughout the night. If your bed partner tells you that you snore, do him or her a favor and get professional help!

Oral Cancer

Dentists also administer oral cancer checks when they examine a patient. Oral cancer accounts for about three percent of all cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. This amounts to 53,000 new cases annually. That means thousands of Michigan residents receive the grim news every year. Early detection is critical for all types of cancer, but especially so for cancers of the mouth and throat.

Teeth Grinding

Your dentist may also be able to help you with teeth grinding. Tooth grinding while sleeping can wreak havoc on your teeth as well as cause severe headaches.. If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night—schedule a consultation and checkup at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. It’s not just an annoyance, teeth grinding can cause headaches, low quality sleep and put you at risk of tooth decay and gum recession.

Sports Protection

Your dentist may also create custom sports mouthguards. If you or your child participates in a contact sport, talk to your dentist about a quality, custom-fitted mouthguard.

If you have questions about any of these issues or want to schedule an exam, give us a call today. 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

Patient Education Is A Priority At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we enjoy providing guidance on oral health.

We know that optimal dental health depends on good habits, so we want you to have all the information you need to practice those habits.

We make sure we explain all procedures and answer our patients’ questions. We also explain how to care for your teeth post-procedure.

In addition to having healthy teeth and gums, we want our dental patients to have the beautiful smile they deserve. We work to make patients aware of the numerous cosmetic dental procedures that can improve smiles dramatically. Procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers are simple but can have amazing results.

If you are in the Comstock Park area and are seeking an experienced dentist with excellent communication skills, give us a call at 616-784-2377. We can answer any questions you have about services such as dental implants or complete smile makeovers. Our services include:

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

Teeth Protection for Exercise and Sports

Keep Your Teeth Safe, Comstock Park

There are more ways to exercise than ever before. In Comstock Park, we have personal trainers, all-purpose gyms, HIIT, barre, yoga, Zumba, spin classes, specialty facilities, and recreational sports.

Sports and Exercise Can Be Risky for Your Teeth

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we want our patients to be aware that many activities pose a risk to teeth.

You may believe that mouthguards are only for boxers and pro football players. Actually, mouthguards can and should be used during any activity where impact to the face is possible.

This includes many common sports such as pick-up basketball games, and volleyball, and bicycling. When you have a properly fitted mouth protector, you can prevent broken or lost teeth as well as lip, tongue, and jaw injuries.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we remind our patients that sports mouthguards aren’t just for kids. Another misconception is that they are only necessary for contact sports. We’ve treated plenty of oral injuries that happened during solo activities like mountain biking.

All Mouthguards Aren’t Create Equal

Mouth protectors come in three main types: stock, boil and bite, and custom-fitted. The stock mouth protectors are pre-formed and ready to wear. Unfortunately, they rarely fit well.

You can find boil and bite mouth protectors at sporting goods stores. They are to be softened in water and then formed to your mouth (make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions).

Custom-fitted mouth protectors can be made by your dentist to make sure you have a perfect fit.

The soft tissues that line your cheeks and lips are especially susceptible to injury when you have braces or fixed bridge work. Plus these expensive appliances can be damaged as well. For these reasons, a mouth protector is extremely important for patients undergoing these treatments. Your orthodontist may even recommend a mouth protector for your lower teeth as well.

If you have questions about sports dentistry any other dental issues, please contact our office and 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

You Don’t Have to Live With Bad Breath

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Chronic bad breath can happen even when you do everything right: brushing and flossing after meals, using mouthwash, and having regular checkups at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI.

If you are doing everything right but still coping with bad breath, don’t make any changes right away. Brushing longer and more forcefully isn’t likely to make much of a difference. In fact, brushing too vigorously is dangerous to gums and contributes to gum recession.

Ordinary bad breath is usually caused by the things we eat and drink. Food debris builds up on the teeth and forms plaque, which is bacterial. The best defense against it is to brush and floss after every meal.

Whatever the cause, you don’t have to live with bad breath. The best thing to do is to let us know. At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we help patients from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI with effective brushing and flossing. Our services include general and restorative dentistry. Schedule an appointment today!

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

When it Comes to Your Smile, Don’t Settle For Less

cosmetic dentistry Comstock Park

No one likes to settle for less than the best, especially with something as important as your smile. At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we have cosmetic dentistry solutions that improve any smile.

As the years go by, teeth naturally lose their youthful luster. They are also subjected to any number of unforseen difficulties, like chips, cracks, or misalignment.

We have procedures that can address these issues and restore your smile:

Teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening is a quick and highly effective way to remove years of discoloration and revitalize your smile.

Porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin shells of medical-grade porcelain that can cover chips, cracks, and gaps between teeth.

Clear braces. So subtle they’re sometimes called invisible, clear braces are a series of aligners that bring restore the integrity of your bite.

Inlays/Onlays. Custom-made inlays or onlays are bonded to teeth that have sustained damage or decay, restoring their original shape and strength.

Any one of these techniques can improve your smile. Put two or more of them together and you have a complete smile makeover!

When it comes to your smile you should never settle for less! Cosmetic dentistry from Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI can renew your gorgeous smile! We’ve improved smiles of patients throughout Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI, who also come to our practice for restorative dentistry and general dentistry. Call for an appointment today!

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

Still Have Your Wisdom Teeth?

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Wisdom teeth usually come in between ages 16 and 24. They aren’t always troublesome, but they often are. We extract wisdom teeth at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI.

Wisdom teeth are sometimes called “third molars.” That’s because they really are: the molars furthest back in the mouth. For some people they never present a problem. Unfortunately, such people are in the minority.

Wisdom teeth have a tendency to grow in crooked or sideways. Sometimes they don’t break through the gums, but instead grow into them, or even into the jawbone. They can let in bacteria and cause infection.

These and other complications can be very painful. That’s why we often recommend extraction. When it comes to wisdom teeth extraction, the younger you are the better. By middle age they could have fused with the bone. Extracting them is still possible, but more involved.

If you’re having issues with wisdom teeth or any other teeth, please give us a call at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI. People from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI trust our extractions, implants and other dental care. Schedule an appointment today!

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

 

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What Does Your Saliva Reveal?

Saliva is an important part of good oral health. Without an adequate flow, you’d find it very difficult to chew and swallow. If you have a problem with dry mouth, let us know at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI.

Saliva is produced by several glands in and around the mouth, and it is mostly water. No surprise there! Aside from chewing and keeping your mouth moist, saliva fights germs in your mouth and helps prevent bad breath.

Sometimes people have a reduced flow of saliva, a condition known as xerostomia (pronounced zero-STO-me-uh). It’s a common side effect of certain medications, and can lead to discomfort and swelling.

Many commonly-used medications can cause dry mouth, including:

  • Antihistamines
  • Appetite suppressants
  • Certain blood pressure medicine
  • Antidepressants
  • Certain pain medication

Dry mouth can also contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, so if these symptoms sound familiar to you, let us know. At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI, we keep a close watch on the oral health of our patients. Our services include general and restorative dentistry, and see patients throughout Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI. Contact us today!

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

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