Focusing On The Top 3 At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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I’m Eric Hull. I’ve been practicing dentistry here in Comstock Park, Michigan since 1974. I have found amazing people in this community. At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we focus on three important things as we endeavor to be your dental provider of choice.

Family

We want to be the dental practice families count on for quality care, whether for routine preventative services, tooth restoration, or cosmetic dentistry. If your son chips a tooth and is in extreme pain, we want to be the first choice that comes to mind. We offer variety for any family’s various dental needs.

porcelain veneers
Six Month Smiles
implant dentistry
Zoom! teeth whitening
restorative dentistry

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on your Family.

Facts

When we sit down in consultation and you say “Drs. Eric Hull, I need to know the cost of veneers, dental implants, the cost of a dental bridge… I need to know my options.” We’ll give you the bottom line on cosmetic dentistry, and Invisalign. Whether it’s affordable dental care for quality of life or affordable cosmetic dentistry for increased confidence, we’re here. Look us up or call: 616-784-2377

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on the Facts.

A Friendly, Comfortable, and Safe Environment

We focus on clean, bright, and inviting and follow rigorous standards of sterilization. Our team here at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is friendly, professional, and considerate.

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on a Friendly atmosphere.

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

Captivate Audiences Once Again

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Hello Comstock Park! Remember when being a toothless five-year-old captivated friends and family? When a lisp was considered precious and endearing? Doesn’t really work for adults. Toothless smiles are embarrassing and lisps can make you self-conscious.

But your days of drawing delighted looks and commanding a conversation may not be gone forever—even if you have teeth missing. Don’t keep your fans waiting any longer. It is time to find out what can be done to fill in those gaps and restore what you reveled in as a child—your brilliant smile and a healthy self-image. Calling at 616-784-2377 is the first step out of the wings and onto the stage of a new life.

If you are missing teeth, have unappealing gaps or are just not happy with your smile’s current state, the talented group at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry look forward to offering you the remedies to all your vital smile makeover, dental restorations, and cosmetic dentistry questions.

A simple consultation will bring not only clarity but hope that possibilities for implant dentistry, restorative dentistry, or porcelain veneers are well within your reach. Drs. Eric Hull is ready to end your stage fright and restore confidence at this stage in your life. We know we can’t stay children forever but don’t despair, YOU can still be captivating!

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 Cavities Are An Urgent Problem That Demands Immediate Attention In Comstock Park Michigan

Tooth Cavities Are An Urgent Problem That Demands Immediate Attention In Comstock Park Michigan

Tooth cavities are a prevalent oral health issue that affects people of all ages and backgrounds in Comstock Park Michigan.

While cavities may seem like a common occurrence, they are not to be taken lightly. Ignoring or delaying treatment for tooth cavities can have serious consequences for your oral health, overall well-being, and quality of life.

Cavities are an urgent problem that demands immediate attention in Comstock Park Michigan. Here are a few reasons why…

Cavities are a progressive condition.

Tooth cavities are not static; they are dynamic and progressive. When bacteria in the mouth produce acids, they attack the tooth enamel, leading to the formation of cavities. If left untreated, cavities continue to grow and penetrate deeper into the tooth structure, eventually reaching the sensitive dental pulp.

This progression can cause severe pain, infection, and even tooth loss. By addressing cavities promptly with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can prevent further damage and the need for more invasive and costly dental procedures.

Discomfort and pain will continue to get worse.

As cavities progress, they can cause varying degrees of discomfort and pain. Initially, you may experience sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures or discomfort while eating sweet or acidic foods. However, as the cavity advances and reaches the inner layers of the tooth, the pain can become intense and persistent.

This can severely impact your ability to eat, speak, and carry out daily activities. Seeking immediate treatment at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for cavities can alleviate pain and prevent it from worsening, allowing you to maintain a comfortable and pain-free oral condition.

Cavities pose a risk of infection.

One of the most critical reasons to address cavities promptly is to prevent the risk of infection. When cavities reach the dental pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels, bacteria can invade and cause an infection known as pulpitis. Symptoms of pulpitis include severe toothache, swelling, and abscess formation.

Dental infections can spread to surrounding tissues, leading to serious complications such as cellulitis, facial swelling, and even systemic infections. Timely treatment of cavities at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help prevent the spread of infection and safeguard your overall health.

It is important to preserve your natural teeth.

Every effort should be made to preserve natural teeth, as they play a vital role in oral function, aesthetics, and overall well-being. If cavities are left untreated, they can weaken the tooth structure and eventually lead to tooth loss. Losing a tooth can have far-reaching consequences, including difficulty chewing, altered speech, and changes in facial appearance.

Moreover, replacing missing teeth can be costly and may require invasive procedures such as dental implants or bridges. By addressing cavities promptly at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can protect your natural teeth and avoid the need for more extensive restorative treatments.

Prevention of long-term expenses.

While it may be tempting to postpone dental treatment due to financial concerns, ignoring cavities can lead to more substantial expenses in the long run. The cost of treating advanced cavities, infections, and tooth loss is often significantly higher than early intervention and preventive care.

By addressing cavities immediately at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can avoid expensive procedures and potentially save yourself from financial burden and discomfort in the future.

Tooth cavities are not just minor dental issues to be ignored or taken lightly. They are urgent problems that demand immediate attention.

From their progressive nature to the risk of infection, pain, and the potential loss of natural teeth, the consequences of untreated cavities can be severe. By seeking timely dental care at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park Michigan, you can prevent further damage, alleviate pain, and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Remember, addressing cavities promptly is an investment in your oral health, overall well-being, and long-term financial stability.

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

The Vital Importance of Caring for Your Gums in Michigan

The Vital Importance of Caring for Your Gums in Michigan

When it comes to maintaining oral health, many people focus primarily on their teeth.

However, the significance of gum care should never be overlooked. Healthy gums play a crucial role in overall oral well-being and are essential for preserving the stability and longevity of your teeth.

Let’s look at a few reasons why it’s important to take care of your gums…

The health of your gums is closely linked to your overall well-being. Research has established a connection between gum disease and several systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and complications during pregnancy. By prioritizing gum care with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can reduce the risk of these health problems and maintain your overall physical well-being.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease characterized by gum recession, bone loss, and potential tooth loss. By practicing good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can prevent gum disease and its associated complications.

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. When gum health deteriorates, the supporting tissues and bone structure around the teeth weaken, compromising their stability. By taking care of your gums, you can maintain the integrity of the supporting structures and preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime. This not only contributes to better oral function but also enhances your appearance and self-confidence.

Unhealthy gums can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. As gum disease progresses, you may experience symptoms such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum sensitivity, and gum recession. These symptoms can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty in eating, speaking, and enjoying daily activities. By maintaining good gum health, you can prevent these unpleasant symptoms and ensure a pain-free oral condition.

Your gums play a significant role in the aesthetics of your smile. Healthy gums provide a frame for your teeth, and their proper positioning and color contribute to an attractive smile. In contrast, gum disease can cause gum recession, making the teeth appear longer and creating an uneven gumline. By caring for your gums, you can achieve a harmonious balance between your gums and teeth, enhancing the overall beauty of your smile.

Confidence is essential for personal and professional success, and your oral health plays a significant role in your self-assurance. Unhealthy gums can lead to issues such as bad breath and an unattractive smile, which can negatively impact your confidence in social and professional interactions. By investing in gum care with Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can maintain fresh breath, a vibrant smile, and the confidence to engage fully in every aspect of your life.

Taking care of your gums is not just an afterthought; it is a vital aspect of maintaining optimal oral health.

Healthy gums contribute to overall well-being, help prevent gum disease, preserve natural teeth, and enhance aesthetics. By practicing good oral hygiene, attending regular dental check-ups at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, and being mindful of gum health, you can enjoy a beautiful smile, avoid painful complications, and promote your long-term oral and overall health.

Remember, caring for your gums is an investment in your well-being and a key component of a confident and fulfilling life.

Contact Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

616-784-2377

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
49321

 

Preventing Gum Disease At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Preventing Gum Disease at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry Run your tongue along the gumline behind your lower front teeth. Do you feel a ridge? This is probably tartar or dental calculus.

Even if you brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can gradually accumulate. If not removed, these bacteria-breeding substances cause the gums to become irritated and swollen. Eventually, the gums become detached from the tooth, creating a ‘pocket’. This creates a new space for plaque and tartar to grow. In advanced stages of periodontal disease, the toxins created by the bacteria literally rot the gum, teeth, and bone.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Comstock Park, we perform the most thorough dental cleanings possible. Gum disease can be reversed in its early stages.

Our goal is to help our Grand Rapids dental patients prevent gum disease before any damage occurs. Cleanings include root planing and periodontal scaling. Scaling removes the plaque and calculus above and, especially, below the gumline where your toothbrush cannot reach. Planing smoothes root surfaces so it is more difficult for plaque and tartar to accumulate and grow. It also creates a healthy surface for the gums to reattach to the root if necessary.

To schedule a deep cleaning, call 616-784-2377. We are located at 769 York Creek Dr NW in Comstock Park. In addition to providing comprehensive dental cleanings, we create mega-watt smiles for cosmetic dentistry patients in the Rockford and Walker area. See for more information about our state-of-the-art dental practice.

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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How to Kick a Tooth Grinding Habit

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Plenty of individuals all over the world suffer from the habit of grinding their teeth. Some people grind their teeth because they are stressed, some people grind their teeth as a coping mechanism, and some men and women grind their teeth in their sleep without realizing it.

Don’t Ignore Teeth Grinding

Grinding of the teeth, clenching of the jaw, or gnashing of the teeth is known as bruxism. Bruxism can transpire consciously or unconsciously both during the day and at night. No matter when or why you grind your teeth, it can be harmful to both your oral health and overall physical health.

Let’s talk about it.

Possible Causes of Teeth Grinding

Some reasons individuals might grind their teeth are:

  • Caffeine consumption
  • Sleep apnea
  • Acid reflux
  • Depression or anxiety
  • Hyperactivity
  • Certain medications

Tooth Grinding Can Cause Serious Dental Problems

The consequences of tooth grinding can include:

  • Tooth pain
  • Jaw pain
  • Loss of tooth enamel or worn down teeth
  • Increased tooth sensitivity
  • Earaches
  • Broken braces or retainers due to excessive tooth grinding, often at nighttime

Sometimes it is difficult to know if you are grinding your teeth during the night. The main giveaways are if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above. One of the most prevalent and effective ways to quit nighttime teeth grinding is to wear a mouthguard while you sleep.

While there are a variety of reasons for tooth grinding, they can all lead to the same dangerous consequences if left untreated. It’s to seek guidance from a dentist or orthodontist. You might have a dental condition that can trigger or exacerbate your grinding.

How Do You Treat Tooth Grinding?

Some teeth grinders can successfully overcome this abnormality on their own. Most individuals, however, need professional help from a doctor or dentist.

Ways to treat tooth grinding include:

  • Use a protective mouthguard, especially for nighttime tooth grinders
  • Ask your dentist about a habit appliance (especially for children)
  • Avoid caffeine in both food and drinks
  • Learn to manage your stress, depression, anxiety, or hyperactivity
  • Seek counseling

If you are unable to kick the habit of tooth grinding, it is smart to consult a professional. Drs. Hull at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry is available for consultations about tooth grinding.

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

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

How Often Should I Replace My Toothbrush?

As I stand over my sink and contemplate the frayed bristles of my favorite toothbrush, I question whether I should replace it.

It’s a good question. We all brush our teeth on a daily basis. Like a good pair of jeans, it seems the more we use a toothbrush, the more comfortable it gets.

As it turns out, that’s not a good thing when it comes to brushing your teeth.

The angle of the bristles on your toothbrush are an important part of cleaning. Straight bristles scrub your teeth and flex your gums. A light circular motion is enough to clean your teeth without causing damage.

Flat or frayed bristles are less successful and can even cause you to work harder. Pressing harder on your teeth can cause damage.

So how often should you change your toothbrush?

Anyone who has worried about changing the oil in their car has learned this basic rule of thumb; change your oil every three months. It’s the same with your toothbrush.

Most dental professionals recommend a new toothbrush every three months. Your local Comstock Park Michigan dental professionals at Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry do, too.

The American Dental Association suggests replacing your toothbrush “every three to four months.”

The reasons to replace your toothbrush includes worn bristles and bacteria. Worn bristles, as we have discussed, are less effective.

Bacteria can also built up in the small gaps of your toothbrush and may contribute to decay and bad breath. Make sure you keep your toothbrush in a sanitary location. Allow for good drying to help extend its life.

Regardless of how long it’s been, if the bristles on your toothbrush look like they’re trying to get away from each other, it’s time. Otherwise, change your toothbrush at the start of every new Michigan season to keep it fresh and effective.

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

What is Dental Sleep Medicine?

Categories: Sleep apnea, Snoring

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What is dental sleep medicine?

It’s a relatively new branch of dentistry that treats sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing problems.

Don’t confuse dental sleep medicine with dental sedation or sleep dentistry. Dental sleep medicine treats sleep apnea.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a malady where you have frequent, recurring delays in breathing while sleeping. These gaps can last for up to 60 seconds. They are caused by soft tissue in the back of the throat that relaxes and cuts off the airway. When the brain is not getting enough oxygen it hinders important physical processes.

There are three different forms of sleep apnea. They are categorized by the cause of the cessation of breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where your throat muscles relax. Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to control your breathing. The final type is called complex sleep apnea syndrome. This serious form occurs when a patient has both of the other apnea types.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a medical doctor. If you have several of the following symptoms, we encourage you to see a doctor that specializes in sleep disorders.

  • Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
  • Insomnia
  • Sleep Deprivation
  • Excessive Snoring
  • Episodes of Not Breathing
  • Mouth Breathing
  • Dry Mouth/Throat
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent Headaches
  • Irritability

How does a sleep apnea dentist treat sleep apnea?

Dentists use oral appliance therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Patients wear a custom-fitted removable oral appliance at night. The appliance fits somewhat like a sports mouthguard.

How does an oral appliance work?

An oral appliance restricts your airway from collapsing. It either holds the tongue or jaw in a forward position.

Does an oral appliance work as well as a CPAP machine?

It depends on the severity of the condition and other considerations specific to the patient. Many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea benefit from OAT.

What are the advantages of OAT over CPAP?

Some people find the device more comfortable. It’s smaller and easier to clean than a CPAP system. Patients who suffer from claustrophobia often choose OAT. Patients who move around a lot when they sleep can get twisted up in the CPAP tube. And a small, portable device is easier to travel with.

If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and are interested in OAT, give us a call at the number below.

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

Crowning Achievements In Dentistry

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Today’s article looks at one of the miracles of modern dentistry: the dental restoration.

Let’s pretend you are a biomedical engineer working in the field of dentistry before the introduction of dental restorations. The men and women of your generation who have missing or damaged teeth want to repair or replace them with a man-made substitute. You have been hired to find or create a material that can be used to manufacture fillings, crowns, and dental bridges.

Consider the various physical and chemical requirements of this incredible substance. It must tolerate forces of 162 pounds per square inch (PSI), hundreds of times a day–day after day, year after year. It must be resistant to cracking and chipping. But there’s a catch regarding its stability; it must not weaken the enamel on opposing teeth. This material must also maintain its size and shape and be resistant to shrinking.

It must be bondable to living tooth structure as well as other materials necessary for specific appliances. It must be biocompatible with the soft tissues in the mouth as well as tooth enamel, dentin, and bone. It can’t generate allergic reactions in the wearers. It must be corrosion-resistant to the chemicals in saliva, foods, and beverages. It must resist infection regardless of ever-present bacteria in the mouth. And it can’t contain toxic chemicals that could be absorbed into the bloodstream.

And we haven’t even thought about the esthetics yet. Ideally, this amazing material would be indistinguishable from genuine teeth in color, opacity, and translucence.

Of course, we know that such a substance exists because dental restorations have been around for a long time. Nowadays, there are numerous materials used alone or in combination including porcelain, ceramic, and metals such as gold and silver amalgam. Though the metals are extremely strong and malleable, they don’t meet some patient’s esthetic requirements and are used mainly for back teeth.

It is interesting to note that porcelain, one of the ideal materials used in modern restorations, was developed over 2000 years ago in China.

I wonder if the ancient Chinese porcelain inventors who developed the techniques for molding, firing, and painting the beautiful tableware and vases highly regarded around the world ever imagined that their invention would live beautifully in the mouths of millions of individuals more than twenty centuries later!

Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry offers porcelain veneers, Six Month Smiles, implant dentistry, Zoom! teeth whitening, and restorative dentistry. For more information, call Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry today at 616-784-2377 or visit us. 

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

Not Happy With Your Dentist?

Comstock Park Cosmetic Dentisty Hello! Whether you stumbled upon this blog by mistake or clicked here on purpose, welcome!

In the Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental blog, we post informative articles about dentistry. This includes general dentistry, cosmetic dental treatments, preventative dental care, and news about our dental practice. Many of my patients visit my blog regularly and I hope you will also find useful dental information here.

If you are in need of a dentist or are not happy with your current dentist, I invite you to visit my Comstock Park office, meet my friendly and thorough staff, and explore your dental needs.

We are passionate about exceeding our patients’ expectations.

Before we can provide dental treatment, however, Drs. Hull must become familiar with each patient. That is why your first initial consultation will take some time. We can’t get to know each other in five minutes.

How are you doing? What is the current condition of your teeth and gums? What are your worries and expectations about dental treatment? Do you have financial concerns about the cost of treatment?

I recognize that each one of my patients has a unique set of circumstances.

At Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we emphasize preventative dental care. When restorative dental treatment is necessary, we prescribe the most conservative treatment.

If you have pressing dental needs, let’s address your options and consider the long-term consequences of each treatment. We are committed to your well-being and want you to receive the best possible care.

Please call us at 616-784-2377 to schedule a consultation. We are confident that you will feel good about choosing Eric Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry for your dental care.

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