Can I Get a Metal-Free Tooth Implant?

are metal-free tooth implants better? Comstock Park

Many Comstock Park dental patients are turning to metal-free dentistry from Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Instead of amalgam fillings, they select composite and porcelain restorations. Non-metal fillings and crowns can be matched exactly to your natural tooth color. Some men and women are sensitive to the metals used in conventional fillings. Non-metal materials can prevent potential tooth sensitivity.

Controversy Over Whether Dental Amalgam is Toxic

Another one of the issues with dental amalgam is that it contains a small amount of mercury. Some dental patients are concerned that mercury is toxic or harmful to one’s health.

Both the American Dental Association and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration have reviewed volumes of research and concluded that dental amalgam does not pose a health risk.

“FDA has reviewed the best available scientific evidence to determine whether the low levels of mercury vapor associated with dental amalgam fillings are a cause for concern. Based on this evidence, FDA considers dental amalgam fillings safe for adults and children ages 6 and above. The weight of credible scientific evidence reviewed by FDA does not establish an association between dental amalgam use and adverse health effects in the general population.” (FDA)

Is There a Metal-Free Dental Implant?

That said, many men and women do not want any metal in their mouths, regardless of what the FDA and ADA say. This leads to the question “Is there a metal-free alternative to titanium for dental implant procedures?”

Some implant dentists offer Zirconia implants.

What Are Zirconia Implants?

Zirconia tooth implants are regularly advertised as a non-metal alternative to titanium posts.

Is Zirconia Metal-Free?

As it turns out, the answer to this question is involved. You will get different answers depending on whether you consult a manufacturer of Zirconia tooth implants, an implant dentist who prefers titanium, or a scientist who has no ties to the dental industry.

Consider the following:

“Zirconia crowns are made from zirconium dioxide, a very durable type of metal that’s related to titanium, although it’s categorized as a type of ceramic crown.” (Healthline.com)

“Is it misleading when we call zirconium restorations “metal free”? We all agree that titanium is a metal. Zirconium is chemically a metal and has been used in alloys. Its atomic number is 40. To say that Titanium is a metal and that Zirconium is not is showing a poor knowledge of chemistry. Zirconium dioxide, an oxidized form of Zirconium that is used for restorations, is a metal. We would not call rust — iron oxide — anything but a metal. Now we have a new generation of zirconium dioxide implant fixtures and they are advertised as “metal-free” and calling them ceramic.” (Osseonews.com)

“Zirconium is a silver-gray transition metal, a type of element that is malleable and ductile and easily forms stable compounds.” (LiveScience.com)

How are Zirconia and Titanium Implants Similar?

Both materials are FDA-approved, biocompatible, and safe to use for dental implants.

Why Don’t all Dental Implant Dentists Offer Zirconia Implants?

There are several reasons.

  • Some dental implant dentists don’t believe they are as strong as titanium implants.
  • Some dental implant dentists don’t offer them because they can’t be used in a variety of configurations. For example, they are not suited for complete mouth restorations and implant-anchored dentures.
  • Some dental implant dentists don’t offer them because they believe they have a slight risk of fracture–especially narrow-diameter Zirconia implants.
  • Some dental implant dentists believe they haven’t proven to provide long-term success.

“A 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association, concluded, “Survival rates and marginal bone loss of zirconia implants are promising, but more evidence on long-term outcomes is needed.” (JADA)

So what do you do if you are interested in getting a dental implant but don’t want titanium in your mouth? Talk to Drs. Hull.

Don’t depend on marketing hype to make critical decisions about dental implants. Schedule a consultation 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

Is It Growing In Your Mouth?

Grand Rapids restorative dentistry

Believe it or not, plaque can rear its ugly head in any Comstock Park mouth – even yours – no matter how meticulous you try to be. If you have deep grooves, watch out. If you have a receding gum line, watch out. If you are a candy-loving Comstock Park resident with the proverbial sweet tooth, watch out. However, Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help out.

The plaque process goes something like this:
Bacteria naturally occur in the mouth, and always will. Bacteria will try to colonize the smooth surfaces of your teeth. At first, it will be soft enough to be removed with a fingernail. After 48 hours, it will start to harden. Give it 10 days and it will be the substance most difficult to remove, tartar. (See picture.) This bacteria will feed on sugars and produce acid that will eat away the tissues of the tooth and lead to cavities. Cavities will originate on the surface and spread on and through the tooth. The best way to deal with plaque is to have a consistent removal process, i.e. regular daily brushing and flossing after eating and even sleeping.

A fabulous smile with fabulous teeth isn’t always the reality for Grand Rapids, Rockford, Walker, and Kentwood folks. We encourage anyone in the Grand Rapids area who is unhappy with their smile to consider the benefits of a smile makeover.

Cosmetic dentistry can be a significant investment but the truth of just how much it will cost for veneers, braces, dental implants, and even teeth whitening may surprise you. At our Comstock Park cosmetic dentistry office you can expect to learn about implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, porcelain veneers, and Zoom! teeth whitening, Six Month Smiles, and any number of other dental services.

Eric Hull has been serving the Comstock Park area since 1974. Call 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation.

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

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Michigan

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

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Comstock Park Michigan

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Comstock Park Michigan

Tooth decay is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages in Comstock Park, Michigan.

Tooth decay is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth. That plaque can harbor bacteria that produce acid. This acid can erode the enamel of your teeth which leads to cavities and tooth decay. The impact of tooth decay can be significant, including pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent tooth decay and protect your oral health in the Grand Rapids area.

The impact of tooth decay can vary depending on the severity of the problem. In the early stages, tooth decay may not cause any symptoms, and the damage can be reversed with proper dental care. However, as tooth decay progresses it can lead to a range of problems.

Some of the most common effects of tooth decay are progressive, including:

  • Tooth pain and sensitivity: As the enamel wears away, the underlying layers of the tooth become exposed. This can cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages and may lead to sharp, throbbing pain. If you are experiencing these symptoms, visit Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a checkup as soon as you can.
  • Cavities: When tooth decay progresses, it can lead to the formation of cavities. These are small holes in the teeth that can become larger over time if left untreated. Our staff at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can fix cavities before they become a significant problem, but we have to catch them early.
  • Infection: If tooth decay is not treated, it can eventually reach the pulp of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. This can lead to infection, which can cause pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. This is a severe and advanced stage of tooth decay and we want to help you avoid this critical concern. If you are experiencing an infection, come into Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry immediately and let us get you on a treatment plan.
  • Bad breath: As a special bonus, the bacteria that cause tooth decay can also contribute to bad breath. At the very least, your social status may be at risk. Worse yet, this can be an early sign of poor oral habits. We can help you assess your condition and prescribe treatment to restore your oral health and get you back on your feet.

To prevent tooth decay and its impact, there are several simple steps we recommend:

Brush and floss regularly: Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day can help remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste, which can strengthen the enamel of your teeth.

  • Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to the buildup of plaque and increase your risk of tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. You may find that this advice aligns well with good diet decisions, too.
  • Visit your dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and identify any problems early on. We can also recommend treatments and procedures to protect your teeth.
  • Use dental sealants: Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating that can be applied to the back teeth. They can help prevent tooth decay by sealing out bacteria and food particles. Ask us about dental sealants on your next visit and let’s discuss whether this is a good option for you and your family.
  • Consider fluoride treatments: Fluoride treatments can be applied to the teeth to help strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can recommend the best fluoride treatment for your needs; all we need to do is a quick checkup to see if this is the best treatment for you.

Tooth decay can have a significant impact on your oral health and overall well-being. By taking simple steps to prevent tooth decay, such as brushing and flossing regularly, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting your dentist at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly, you can protect your teeth and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

 

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

The Five Stages of a Cavity

stages of a cavity Comstock Park

You may have heard that once tooth enamel is eroded, it’s gone forever. This is partially true, but in the earliest stage of enamel erosion, a cavity can be reversed.

Reverse a cavity before it needs a filling

If you can prevent cavities in pre-teens, there’s a better chance that their teeth can stay healthy through adolescence and into adulthood.

This is because the rate of tooth decay declines as children grow.

Of course, cavity prevention is important throughout our lives.

Let’s discuss the five stages of a cavity.

Stage 1: Attack of the Little White Spots

The tooth begins to show signs of harm. White spots appear. They are under the surface of the enamel, but you can see them from the outside.

Demineralization will bring about these spots. When they occur in children’s molars, it can be easy for parents to miss them. That’s why daily dental hygiene and regular dental exams are essential.

At this stage, it’s possible to stop a cavity before it needs a filling. Dental hygiene can stop the erosion. Fluoride can remineralize the enamel.

Can Stage 1 be reversed? Yes!

Stage 2: Enamel Decay

Did you know that decay begins under the surface of the enamel?

The visible enamel is intact for the first part of Stage 2. Then the hole busts through the surface.

Can Stage 2 be reversed? No…but the tooth can probably be saved.

Stage 3: Going Deeper Into the Dentin

The decay drills through the enamel and hits the soft dentin layer that lies below. This is an advanced cavity.

The good news?

The decay hasn’t yet reached the pulp. It will, however, start to cause pain.

Can Stage 3 be reversed? No…but maybe the tooth won’t need a root canal.

Stage 4: Ouch! The Decay Hits the Pulp

Hopefully, you will never suffer stage 4. This is very painful. The infection has reached the pulp where the nerves are located. Unfortunately, a root canal is the only treatment option. Unless, of course, the tooth is extracted.

Remember, cavities are completely preventable.

Can Stage 4 be reversed? No…and it must be treated with a root canal.

Stage 5: Abscess Distress

The tooth decay (and infection) has traveled through the pulp and out the end. In the final stage, it drills through the tip. Now the infection is in the tissue and bone surrounding the tooth root. The area swells up and it’s very painful.

It’s also dangerous for anyone’s health. This is a serious infection that can spread to other parts of the body. Abscesses originating in a tooth can be fatal.

Can Stage 5 be reversed? No…and it’s life-threatening.

Protect your teeth from tooth decay so you can have a healthy smile for life.

If you see little white dots, schedule an exam and dental cleaning at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

 

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

Our Top Five Great Toothpaste Recommendations

Our Top Five Great Toothpaste Recommendations

When it comes to maintaining good oral health in Michigan, using toothpaste is an essential part of daily dental hygiene.

Toothpaste helps to remove plaque and food particles from teeth, preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. It also freshens your breath which makes for a good starting point for social success.

With so many types of toothpaste available in the Michigan market, it can be challenging to decide which one is the best for your specific needs. Let’s take a look at the five top toothpastes you can find in our area. These are great toothpastes, and make for a good start to your oral health:

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Mint Toothpaste

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Mint Toothpaste is an excellent choice in  Michigan for those looking for a toothpaste that offers multiple benefits. This toothpaste helps prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup while also freshening breath and whitening teeth. The toothpaste contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay. The deep clean formula helps to remove stains and leaves teeth feeling clean and smooth.

Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste is an excellent option. This toothpaste is specially formulated to protect sensitive teeth and strengthen tooth enamel. The gentle whitening formula helps to remove surface stains, leaving teeth looking brighter and healthier. The toothpaste is also free of harsh abrasives, making it safe to use on sensitive teeth.

Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste

Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste is another excellent option for those in  Michigan looking for a multi-benefit toothpaste. This toothpaste helps to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup while freshening breath and whitening teeth. This one also contains fluoride, which (as we’ve mentioned) helps strengthen your tooth enamel and creates a barrier against tooth decay. This one has some stain removal capabilities and offers a sharp and clean taste that will give you a fresh-breath feel.

Tom’s of Maine Natural Anti-plaque Toothpaste

If you’re looking for a natural toothpaste option, Tom’s of Maine Natural Anti-plaque Toothpaste is an excellent choice. This toothpaste is made with natural ingredients, including zinc citrate, which helps to prevent plaque buildup and freshens breath. The toothpaste is also fluoride-free, making it a good option for those who prefer to avoid fluoride in their oral care products.

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste is a popular option for those looking to brighten their smile. This toothpaste contains baking soda, which helps to remove surface stains and whiten teeth. The toothpaste also contains fluoride, which (we can’t stress enough) strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay. The minty flavor helps to freshen your breath, leaving your mouth feeling clean and refreshed and ready for your next close social encounter.

Selecting the best toothpaste isn’t the biggest choice you’ll make this week, but it’s essential to choose one that meets your specific needs. The toothpastes listed above are some of the best options available, and each one offers unique benefits to help maintain good oral health.

Regardless, the bottom line is that you need to find a good toothpaste that feels good and encourages you to brush often. A bad-tasting toothpaste, or one that isn’t providing the results you want can result in poor oral health habits, and that’s what we want to avoid.

Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day with your chosen toothpaste, and schedule regular dental checkups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.

 

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

The Vital Link Between Oral Health and Overall Well-being in Grand Rapids

The Vital Link Between Oral Health and Overall Well-being in Grand Rapids

In the intricate tapestry of our body’s health, a thread often overlooked is the profound connection between oral health and overall well-being.

As the gateway to our body, our oral cavity is pivotal in influencing our general health. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, nestled in the heart of Grand Rapids, is at the forefront of understanding and advocating for this crucial link.

Let’s look into the profound connection between oral health and overall wellness and how Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is guiding patients toward a healthier and more vibrant life.

The Oral-Body Connection: Beyond the Surface

Our mouths are home to a diverse ecosystem of bacteria, some beneficial and others potentially harmful. When our oral health is compromised, these bacteria can travel to other parts of the body, potentially contributing to various health issues. Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry recognizes that oral health isn’t isolated; it’s intricately woven into the fabric of our overall health.

The Impact on Systemic Health

Cardiovascular Health: Poor oral hygiene can contribute to gum disease, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Research suggests a link between gum disease and cardiovascular conditions, emphasizing the need for a healthy mouth to support a healthy heart.

Diabetes Management: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to oral health issues, while gum disease might make it harder to manage blood sugar levels. A harmonious balance between oral health and diabetes management is crucial.

Respiratory Health: Oral infections can potentially affect the respiratory system, exacerbating conditions such as pneumonia. Regular oral hygiene can help prevent these infections and maintain respiratory health.

Pregnancy and Infant Health: Expectant mothers with gum disease might be at a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight. Maintaining oral health is crucial for both maternal and infant well-being.

The Holistic Approach at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand that a healthy smile is more than just a beautiful appearance; it’s an essential component of overall health. Our experienced team doesn’t merely treat dental issues; we educate our patients about the intricate oral-body connection and empower them to take charge of their health journey.

Promoting a Lifelong Wellness Cycle

Comprehensive Examinations: Our team at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry conducts thorough examinations to assess oral health and identify potential signs of systemic concerns.

Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor treatment plans that consider oral health and overall well-being, ensuring a holistic approach to care.

Educational Initiatives: Through workshops and educational resources, we equip our patients with the knowledge to make informed choices for their health.

The connection between oral health and overall well-being is undeniable, and Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is dedicated to illuminating this vital link for our patients in Rockford. As you step into our practice, you’re entering a space where your health is seen as a symphony, with each aspect playing a unique role in the harmony of your well-being.

Book your appointment with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today and embark on a journey toward vibrant oral and overall health. Your journey to a healthier life begins with a 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

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

Oral Health During Pregnancy

Comstock Park dental exam during pregnancy

This post from Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI is for women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Carrying a precious baby can not only consume your time; it can divert your attention from other things. As valued as your little bundle of joy will be, don’t forget your needs and your vitality during these critical months.

It’s vital to understand that the changes your body experiences during pregnancy also impact dental health. Changes in your hormonal balance are needed for growing a new life, but they can also compromise your oral health during pregnancy.

Your gums are especially susceptible. Poor gum health can even affect your unborn child. The American Dental Association has conducted studies that show a slightly increased risk of low birth weight and pre-term infants in mothers with gum disease.

In order to keep your smile healthy, it is recommended you have a thorough checkup before you are pregnant. If you are already pregnant but haven’t visited a dentist in a while, give us a call at Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI. We offer complete dentistry services. Patients from Ada, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI also some to us for orthodontics and cosmetic 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

A Missing Tooth Can Lead to Bone Loss

Rockford tooth implants

Dental implants from Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI support teeth so lifelike, patients have been known to forget some of their teeth aren’t real. That’s now natural their look and function is.

Those simple facts are enough to make most people choose dental implants if they need to replace one or more of their teeth. Then they learn that in addition to those benefits, implants can actually preserve and promote healthy bone mass in their jaws.

Dental Implants and Bone Loss

An unfortunate consequence of losing teeth is that the surrounding bone begins to atrophy. This begins almost immediately, and is usually noticeable within a year or so. The person’s face takes on a shrunken or sagging appearance. The more teeth that are missing, the more pronounced it is.

This happens because of the missing tooth root. But because dental implants are physically attached to the jaw, they mimic the root. The natural biting and chewing motions stimulate the bone and encourage new tissue to grow around the implant.

One dental implant can support one artificial tooth, and several can support a bridge, and even a full dental arch. At Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park MI we have placed them in patients fromAda, Belmont, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI. They also come to us for restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry . Please give our office a call to 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