Dentist Blog - Grand Rapids Dentist | Eric Hull DDS Aesthetic and General Dentistry

Sep19

Missing Pieces in the Mouth Puzzle for Grand Rapids, MI

Missing Pieces in the Mouth Puzzle for Grand Rapids, MI

A 500-piece Eiffel Tower puzzle is still easy to recognize with 32 pieces missing.
A 50-piece kitten puzzle will probably still give warm fuzzies without 3 or 4 pieces in place.
But…
A 32-piece dental puzzle is just not complete without ALL of the pieces.

If you’re missing teeth, cutting your mouth on chipped edges of teeth, or struggling with eating because of broken or cracked teeth, there are solutions. To understand the types of braces available, the cost of veneers, or the price of dental implants, sit down today with Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull for the helpful consultation you deserve.

Let us fill in those missing pieces – there has never been a better time to look into cosmetic dentistry. Modern cosmetic dental procedures, state-of-the-art materials, and the expertise of cosmetic dentists like Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull combine to create truly celebrity-caliber smiles.

In 1974, Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry undertook the task of serving Comstock Park’s dental needs. Since then, we have served satisfied patients in many cities: Belmont, Grand Rapids, Walker, Sparta, Rockford and beyond!

Your lucky smile could be the next puzzle to be put back together beautifully, no matter your dental disarray. We offer the missing pieces: porcelain crowns/veneers, Invisalign, implant dentistry, teeth whitening, and restorative dentistry.

We can whiten, brighten, and straighten your smile!

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan 49321
616-784-2377
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

Sep12

Overbites And Underbites In Comstock Park

Overbites And Underbites in Comstock Park

Have you heard of overbites and underbites? Bite problems can occur when the upper and lower parts of the jaw are different sizes. When the lower jaw is smaller than the upper jaw, it is called an overbite. When the reverse is true, it is called an underbite.

Another related alignment disorder is called a crossbite. Crossbites occur when the lower teeth are in the wrong position. They may be incorrectly positioned sideways, forward, or backward.

Malocclusion (literally ‘bad bite’) is the term used for all types of bite problems, including overbites, underbites and crossbites. Jaw alignment disorders can cause a range of problems and often prohibit proper chewing and/or swallowing. Teeth can shift around in the mouth, causing even more discomfort or difficulty. Gum disease and tooth decay are also harder to prevent because proper oral hygiene can be difficult with a malocclusion. TMJ disorder can develop over time. Distorted facial shape and unattractive teeth are often the most noticeable and troubling issues for those affected.

Fortunately, there are a variety of effective treatments for bite problems. If you suspect your child has a bite misalignment, it is especially important to have them examined by Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull, your Grand Rapids dentist, as early as possible. By starting early, you can make sure they avoid years of pain and self-consciousness.

Call Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry at 616-784-2377. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull are experienced in diagnosing bite disorders in patients of all ages. We can create a successful treatment plan for you. We also offer cosmetic dentistry and Invisalign for our Belmont, Grand Rapids, Comstock Park, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI area dental patients.

See you soon!

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan 49321
616-784-2377
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-eric-hull/

Sep5

Floss Pick Facts For Rockford

Dental patients who live in the Grand Rapids, Walker, and Sparta areas want to keep their mouths as healthy and clean as possible. However, they are also looking for convenience, and that’s why many of them turn to floss picks instead of old-fashioned dental floss.

These little tools are quite handy. They usually have a handle that is pointed and can double as a toothpick, and a length of floss strung in a U-shaped groove. They are inexpensive and can be used more discreetly than floss.

While this may seem like a dream come true for Rockford residents hoping to make flossing a more regular part of their oral health routine, floss picks are still a step below actual floss in effectiveness.

The American Dental Association has only approved dental floss for cleaning in between teeth. One issue is that floss picks can’t curve and form the angles needed for superior cleaning.

So, what is a responsible dental patient to do? The first thing is to speak with your Comstock Park dentist and see what their opinion is. If you love floss picks, continue to use them when convenient, but still try to use regular dental floss daily.

If you are looking for a new dentist, we hope that you consider Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. We have been serving the Rockford area since 1974 from our Comstock Park practice.

Our friendly and thorough staff would love to answer any questions you have about flossing and other dental health concerns, as well as questions about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers.

Call 616-784-2377 today to schedule an exam or consultation.

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull
Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, Michigan
616-784-2377
https://www.greatmismiles.com/meet-dr-bruce-stewart

The following website was used as source material for this blog: https://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/product-category-information/floss-and-other-interdental-cleaners, accessed on August 1, 2014

Aug22

Bright And Healthy Smiles For Comstock Park

No one disputes the fact that bright and healthy smiles are more attractive. Everyone likes to see a great smile. Having a great smile is not only healthy for your mouth but healthy for your self-esteem as well.

Stewart and Hull Aestethic and General Dentistry is located in Comstock Park. Our office provides cosmetic dentistry, implant dentistry, composite fillings, Invisalign, Six Month Smile, periodontal therapy, occlusal guards, sports mouth guards teeth whitening and much more.

If you are looking for a dentist in the Comstock Park area please contact us. There are many affordable procedures that will allow you to achieve a bright and healthy smile. Ask us about implant dentistry and restorative dentistry. At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we focus on high-quality personal dental care in a relaxing, attractive environment. To schedule a consultation, exam or cleaning, call us today!

Dr. Bruce Stewart & Dr. Eric Hull

We can whiten, brighten and straighten your smile!

Aug15

A Standard Of Excellence In Comstock Park

Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry provides dentistry to local residents.

If you are looking for a trusted dentist, we invite you to consider Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry. Their office has been keeping smiles healthy and beautiful since 1974. We offer full-service dentistry for every member of your family in a safe and comfortable environment.

Whether you need preventative dentistry to maintain your healthy teeth or restorative dentistry to address all of your dental needs, we are here for you. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull will direct your course of treatment with a pleasant chair side manner and experienced precision.

Combined cosmetic dental procedures make total smile makeovers possible. A successful smile re-design requires the expertise and eye of an artist. If you are considering a smile makeover schedule a free consultation today.

Visit our website for useful information about our team and the services we offer. If you live in the 49321 zip code area, and are looking for the highest standard of excellence in the Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford, MI area click on any of the links on this page or call our office at 616-784-2377.

Aug8

Behind-The-Scenes Dental Advances at Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Comstock Park dental patients who have undergone a smile redesign are probably aware of the latest cosmetic dental procedures popular in the Rockford MI area. These include metal-free fillings, porcelain veneers, invisible braces, implant-anchored dentures, and inlays/onlays.

Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull focus on dentistry advances that are used behind-the-scenes to benefit their patients.

Digital imaging is not just for Instagram, Tumblr and Pinterest. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull use Realtime digital images diagnose and treat oral problems including emerging cavities and bone recession. Digital X-Rays require far less radiation exposure and are easier to store and access.

Pinpoint-precise Diode lasers are used in myriad procedures including crown lengthening, root scaling, biopsies, root canals and oral lesion removal. Laser procedures are easier on the patient and require shorter healing times.

The future of dentistry is here today. Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry is located at 769 York Creek Dr NW in Comstock Park. We can be reached at 616-784-2377. Ask us about:

implant dentistry
restorative dentistry
porcelain veneers
teeth whitening
Invisalign

Aug1

Beware Of An Acidic Diet

Most Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford MI residents don’t often think of a tooth as a body part that fluctuates in strength. Our teeth seem to have a steady hardness and dependably grind food whenever we need them. However, teeth are dynamic organisms with chemical processes that occur continually.

The protective enamel that covers the softer interior is made of minerals. Enamel demineralizes (loses some of its density) when coming in contact with acids. Saliva can dilute and neutralize acid so the tooth can remineralize (re-harden). This process isn’t instantaneous, however. While the enamel is soft, the tooth is vulnerable to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the erosion continues, the much softer dentin is exposed.

At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are noticing an increase in cases of serious acid erosion. It is apparent that the typical Rockford MI 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, food with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are highly acidic.

You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Rockford MI teens that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their strongest. In addition to soda, energy drinks are very popular in Michigan and Rockford MI cosmetic dentists are noticing the effects on their dental patients’ tooth enamel.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum afterwards. Stimulating saliva production can speed up the remineralization process.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have acid erosion. To schedule an examination with Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull at Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, call 616-784-2377 today.

We are working to raise awareness of the oral health dangers of acid erosion. We hope you have benefited from this Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry blog article and look forward to your visit.

Jul25

10 Terrific Tooth Tips From Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry

1. If you have kids and your municipal water supply does not have the recommended level of fluoride, talk to your pediatrician about fluoride supplements. Fluoride strengthens both the teeth you can see and the ones still forming in the jaw.
2. Set a timer when you brush to make sure you spend at least two minutes thoroughly (but gently!) cleaning all surfaces. Don’t forget your tongue – it provides a cozy home for bacteria to flourish.
3. Floss before you brush so that tooth bristles can better reach between teeth.
4. If you can’t brush after a meal, chew some sugarless gum with xylitol. Xylitol may curb the growth of bacteria on your teeth to reduce plaque formation.
5. Eat carbohydrates with meals instead of alone as snacks. More saliva is generated while eating a meal and this can lessen the effects of carbs sitting on your teeth.
6. An oral fluoride rinse used right before bedtime adds an extra measure of decay deterrence. Fluoride rinses (not traditional mouthwash) work best when swished over teeth for at least thirty seconds after flossing and brushing. After spitting it out, don’t rinse with water. Let the residue protect and strengthen your enamel all night long. This is especially important for kids – just make sure they don’t swallow it.
7. If you have diabetes, it is important to understand that unhealthy blood sugar levels can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist can help you maintain oral health in spite of your condition. If you have already experienced dental complications related to diabetes, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull by calling 616-784-2377.
8. Beware of the dental risks of chronic dry mouth (xerostomia). Continual saliva production is essential for keeping the mouth lubricated, washing the food from tooth surfaces, and neutralizing the acid caused by plaque. Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers are some of the medications that can cause dry mouth. Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull can help you protect your teeth if you live with this unpleasant condition.
9. Wearing a mouthguard when you participate in sports can prevent tooth injury. Our office offers custom mouthguards that fit perfectly.
10. If you are looking for an excellent dentist in the Comstock Park area, we invite you to schedule an appointment with Dr. Stewart and Dr. Hull. At Stewart and Hull Aesthetic and General Dentistry, we provide gentle, quality care for children and adults. Talk to us about preventative, restorative, cosmetic, or children’s dentistry. We look forward to serving you.

Jul3

Rockford MI Dental Patients, Take Care Of Your Toothbrush!

The common household toothbrush. Every home has at least one, and hopefully all Rockford, Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta and Walker residents are brushing their teeth after each meal. While cosmetic dentistry and a complete smile makeovers seem to be all the rage these days, daily brushing is still the most important thing you can do for your oral health. It has been said that each toothbrush can contain millions of bacteria. But don’t worry, those bacteria come from our mouths, which harbor equal amounts of bacteria. For a person with a healthy immune system, these bacteria pose no threat.

However, a few common sense tips might keep any unnecessary germs from affecting the toothbrushes of Grand Rapids area dental patients.

First, be sure to store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, and close the toilet lid before flushing. Each flush of the toilet releases a spray of bacteria into the air, so it’s best to just eliminate the spray. Next, since bacteria like a moist environment, store your toothbrush upright and without a travel case so that it can dry completely between uses. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Brushing and flossing are the key to good oral health, and doing both each day will keep Rockford MI dental patients’ risk for gum disease, cavities, and bad breath low.

Keep your smile bright by visiting Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly and practicing proper oral hygiene.

Our office has been serving the Belmont, Comstock Park, Grand Rapids, Sparta, Walker and Rockford areas since 1974. We can answer any questions you have about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as tooth whitening, porcelain veneers, dental implants, and clear braces. Call to schedule an appointment today!

Jun27

Dental Check Up At Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry

When is the last time you had a dental check-up? Most people in the Comstock Park area need a dental check-up every six months. If you are at higher risk for oral diseases, we recommend an examination every four months.

Drs. Stewart and Hull, of Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry, in Comstock Park are accepting new patients. If you do not currently have a dentist or are unhappy with your provider, we invite you to learn about our practice and meet our team. We are confident that you will like what you find. Many Comstock Park residents entrust us with their dental health and we enjoy the relationships we have with them.

Most people in our community are in a medium to low risk category for dental problems. However, if you use tobacco or alcohol, eat a lot of sugar, have an eating disorder, have poor oral hygiene habits, or suffer from medical conditions that affect your mouth, you are likely in a higher risk category. It is important to your dental and physical health to have your teeth checked right away.

We look at a lot of factors to determine your oral health and the outlook for your future. We want you to have the healthiest teeth possible so that you can enjoy a beautiful smile for life. The philosophy ‘Ignore it and it will go away,’ does not apply to a tooth or gum problem. We also provide Oral Cancer Screenings, to ensure our patients have the healthiest mouths possible.

Stewart & Hull Aesthetic & General Dentistry
769 York Creek Dr NW
Comstock Park, MI 49321
616-784-2377
https://www.greatmismiles.com/dental-services/

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