Did you miss out on black friday or choose to stay home and avoid all the long lines and anxious shoppers? If so, its not too late to take advantage of some holiday deals at Rivertown Dental Associates. 

There are three specials available this year!

1. Sonicare toothbrushes for the entire family - $54 childrens sonicare and $155 for the Sonicare Flexcare. We have found that most of our Grand Rapids, Grandville, and West Michigan patients who use a Sonicare toothbrush have more healthy mouths at their check-up appointments.

2. BriteSmile in-office whitening. A fast, easy, and very effective whitening procedure now $299 (regularly $499) - perfect for that person that's difficult to find gifts for!

3. Take-home whitening trays now $99, normally $149 

Call Rivertown Dental Associates today at (616) 534-0135 to reserve your brushes or make a reservation for a whitening appointment. Or, if you're out at Rivertown Mall, swing by our office to complete your holiday purchases. 

Happy Holidays from all of us at Rivertown Dental Associates!

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At Rivertown Dental Associates, we regularly assist patients who complain of dry mouth. Dry mouth is the feeling that there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Everyone has a dry mouth once in a while—when you wake up in the morning or if you are nervous, upset or under stress. But if you have a dry mouth all or most of the time, it can be uncomfortable and can lead to serious health problems and dental decay. It can also be a sign of certain diseases and conditions.

 Dry mouth…

•  can cause difficulties in tasting, chewing, swallowing, and speaking

•  can increase your chance of developing dental decay and oral infections

•  can be caused by certain medications or medical treatments

Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. So if you think you have dry mouth, be sure to see Dr. Crete - there are things Rivertown Dental Associates can do to give you relief.

Symptoms include:

• a sticky, dry feeling in the mouth

• trouble chewing, swallowing, tasting, or speaking

• a burning feeling in the mouth

• a dry feeling in the throat

• cracked lips

• a dry, rough tongue

• mouth sores

• an infection in the mouth

What causes dry mouth?

People get dry mouth when the glands in the mouth that make saliva are not working properly. Because of this, there might not be enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. There are several reasons why these glands (called salivary glands) might not work right.

• Side effects of some medicines: More than 400 medicines can cause the salivary glands to make less saliva. For example, medicines for high blood pressure and depression often cause dry mouth.

• Disease: Some diseases affect the salivary glands. For example, Sjögren’s syndrome, HIV/AIDS, and diabetes can all cause dry mouth.

• Radiation therapy: The salivary glands can be damaged if they are exposed to radiation during cancer treatment.

• Chemotherapy: Drugs used to treat cancer can make saliva thicker, causing the mouth to feel dry.

• Nerve damage: Injury to the head or neck can damage the nerves that tell salivary glands to make saliva.

Tips for keeping your teeth healthy

Remember, if you have dry mouth, you need to be extra careful to keep your teeth healthy. Make sure you:

• Gently brush your teeth at least twice a day.

• Floss your teeth every day.

• Use toothpaste with fluoride in it. Most toothpastes sold at grocery and drug stores have fluoride in them and Dr. Crete can decide if you may need a prescription for .

• Avoid sticky, sugary foods.If you do eat them, rinse with water and brush afterwards.

• Visit Dr. Crete for a checkup at least twice a year.  Rivertown Dental Associates may also suggest you use a prescription-strength fluoride gel (which is like a toothpaste) to help prevent dental decay.

 At Rivertown Dental Assocates in Grandville, MI, we hope to work with you to optimize your oral health. If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from dry mouth, please don’t hesitate to give us a call and set up a consultation appointment.

Rivertown Dental Associates - Michael J. Crete DDS

3514 Rivertown Point CT SW Grandville, MI 49418

(616)534-0135

Grandville, Michigan  ­- Over the past 25 years there have been many changes to the field of dentistry.  To the casual observer, fillings that used to be silver are now white and hopeless teeth that used to be replaced by a false tooth can now be filled by an implant. For the dental professional, however, there have been countless updates and innovations that have led to improvements in the function and esthetics of dental restorations. With all the changes to dentistry, one thing that has stayed the same over the past two-and-a-half decades is Dr. Crete’s dedication to serving the dental needs of the Grandville community.

It was 25 years ago that Dr. Crete began exceeding the dental expectations of Grandville residents. Today, Dr. Crete continues to meet the many needs of his patients with an extremely high level of professionalism and attention to detail.  One of the greatest joys for Dr. Crete and the Rivertown Dental staff is the relationships they’ve built with their patients. Many of Dr. Crete’s original patients from 25 years ago see him on a regular basis for continuing care. In the words of Dr. Crete, “I feel blessed to have a career where I have the opportunity to serve families and watch them grow over the years.”

Dr. Crete has been serving the greater Grand Rapids area for 25 years! It’s no surprise that he's an excellent candidate for the Grand Rapids Magazine’s Best of Grand Rapids list. You can help!  If you or someone you know appreciates Dr. Crete and subscribes to Grand Rapids Magazine be sure to complete the ballot found in the center of the magazine in either your June, July or August issue.

Dr. Crete is a family and cosmetic dentist serving West Michigan’s dental needs. For more information, visit www.rivertowndental.com or www.facebook.com/rivertowndental. Spread the word about Rivertown Dental for a reward!

The mouth is a window into the health of the body

“Brush and Floss your teeth regularly, avoid too many sugary snacks, and see your dentist regularly.” How many times have you heard those phrases? Now there are even more reasons to follow that advice. Taking care of your teeth and gums does more than just prevent cavities or bad breath. 

The mouth is a window into the health of the body. It can show signs of nutritional deficiencies, general infection, and even systemic diseases. Diabetes, AIDS, and Sjogren’s syndrome are only a few of the diseases that affect the entire body which may first become apparent because of lesions seen in the mouth or other oral problems. Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates are trained to identify these early signs of disease.

More and more research now suggests that gum disease (periodontal disease) is associated with many systemic disorders such as stroke, cardiovascular disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Pregnant women may be at increased risk for delivering pre-term and low birthweight babies. It is important to get regular medical and dental check-ups to ensure your gums and teeth are healthy. Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates serve Grand Rapids, Grandville, Jenison, Holland, and Hudsonville. Is it time you should see your dentist? Call or contact us today to schedule your next appointment.

Key words: White spots after braces, white spots on teeth, decalcified spots, white spot lesions, grand rapids white spot repair

Many different things can cause the development of white spots on your teeth. These spots can be caused by excessive fluoride intake, nutrition, genetics, and very frequently arise after orthodontic treatment with braces. At Rivertown Dental Associates, Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates in Grand Rapids are experts when it comes to identifying and repairing white spot lesions in our patients.

Usually white spots that appear on the teeth are areas of decalcified enamel and can be an early sign that the tooth is deteriorating. Sometimes, the first evidence of a cavity that is forming is a white spot lesion and the tooth’s enamel has the opaque color in the area where the cavity is beginning to form. Having regular visits to Rivertown Dental Associates Grandville / Grand Rapids location can help us to detect these white spots early on.

White spots on the teeth can appear after changes have occurred in the mineral content of a person’s teeth. This often happens during childhood and leads to eventual deterioration of enamel if left untreated. White spots can also appear in connection with a condition called fluorosis, which is the result of having an excessive intake of fluoride. If you’re concerned that you or your family is receiving too much fluoride in your drinking water, Rivertown Dental Associates will provide you with a water testing kit and help you determine your fluoride intake levels free of charge.

At Rivertown Dental Associates we commonly see white spot lesions in our patients who have previously had orthodontic treatment (braces). Most people with braces have trouble properly brushing their teeth which results in a build-up of plaque. The bacteria in plaque produce acids which can severely harm tooth enamel if there isn’t adequate brushing and flossing of the teeth. The first evidence of this type of tooth decay is the white decalcified enamel spot or lesion that becomes apparent when braces are removed.

White spots can be very bothersome when braces are removed because the section of the tooth underneath the orthodontic bracket is protected from plaque acids, while areas surrounding the brackets are vulnerable to decalcification. This means that when braces are removed, the teeth will appear stained by the brackets and small, square, white outlines remain on the teeth. It is also disappointing because of the significant investment people make to have orthodontic treatment.

Thankfully, at Rivertown Dental Associates we have many options for you when it comes to fixing white spot lesions. One technique is resin infiltration. In this procedure, Dr. Crete actually fills in the demineralized tooth structure with a filling material that doesn’t require any drilling or shots. Resin infiltration is a quick and esthetically pleasing technique that can repair white spots on your teeth quickly and effectively. Other techniques can target the demineralized zones with fluoride and other minerals in an attempt to remineralize the lost tooth structure. With this technique, custom gel carrier trays are fabricated for your teeth and at-home application throughout the week leads to remineralization of the white spot. This technique is more time consuming and results will vary. At times, the spots on your teeth may be too severe for the simpler techniques or they may not respond to resin infiltration. In these cases, Dr. Crete can recommend other procedures like veneers or crowns to help give you a natural, healthy looking smile.

Call or visit Rivertown Dental Associates in Grandville, Michigan today to set up an appointment to address your white spots or any other dental need. You can even visit us on the web to set up an appointment online. At Rivertown Dental Associates, we’re focused on you.

Rivertown Dental Associates and Dr. Crete serve Grand Rapids and Grandville families in all their general dentistry and cosmetic dentistry needs. 

If you've decided that it may be time to look into getting veneers, theres a few things you should know. When Dr. Crete evaluates your smile, he looks not only at your teeth, but also at many different aspects that play a part in your smile. In addition to your great new look, we'll take into consideration your facial proportions and symmetry.

The key to successful treatment with veneers includes consideration of the...

• overall dimensions of your face
• tilt, angle, and curvature of your teeth
• midline position of your teeth relative to the midline of your lips and face
• position and fullness of your lips
• color of your teeth enamel
• contours of your gumline

Based on these factors, the way that your teeth come together when you bite, and your preferred smile color, contours and proportions, we can move on to decide what size, shape, and type of veneers will best complement your smile. Because Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental have been doing cosmetic procedures for so many years, we're experts in finding the smile that's right for YOU!

Veneers can immediately provide you with whiter, even straighter appearing teeth by hiding certain aspects of your teeth such as

• pitted, worn, and yellow teeth damaged by years of erosion from foods, beverages, age, and even medications
• gaps that trap food and cause you to hide your true smile
• overlaps and crowding that create an accordion appearance, especially in profile
• unsightly chips or cracks that catch on dental floss and attract stains like magnets.

In addition to fixing the look of each tooth, veneers can help to reproportion your smile relative to the rest of your face. For example, veneers can help with...

•  an uneven or 'too-gummy' gumline
• teeth that appear too long due to receeding gums
• poorly shaped or sized teeth that don't suit the proportions of your smile
• worn down teeth from clenching and grinding

Veneers are often an excellent solution for looking younger without having to pay for plastic surgery. Schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Crete to find out if veneers are right for you. If you don't know already, we're located just across the street from Rivertown Crossings Mall. Stop in the next time your in the neighborhood!

Thumb sucking can cause dental problems!

You may be concerned about your child’s thumb sucking and wonder if it is harmful, at what age your child should stop, or what could happen if your child doesn’t stop. Thankfully, Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates in Grandville can help answer your questions!

Thumb sucking is a natural reflex for children. Sucking thumbs, fingers, pacifiers or other objects is soothing and helps make babies and toddlers feel secure. Since thumb sucking is relaxing, it may even help children fall asleep.

If your child is still sucking their thumb when their permanent teeth start to erupt...around age 5... they will be at risk for causing their permanent teeth to be mis-aligned.  The most common condition is called an "open bite" or some people call it a "buck tooth" look.  Sometimes not only the teeth are effected but the orientation or growth of the jaw can be effected as well. You will want to have Dr. Crete and the staff at Rivertown Dental Associates evaluate your child for these jaw and teeth changes. 

Some children will continue to suck their thumb or suck their fingers well into the pre-teen years.  Although this is not considered "the norm," it is very common and in many cases is a way for a child to nurture themselves emotionally.  There are many factors that may impact a child's emotional well being and sometimes it may be OK to allow your child to continue to suck their thumb until THEY are ready to give it up.  Often the pressure of their peers is better than a parent nagging them to stop the habit. (Watch for future blogs where Dr. Crete will expand on this theory of late childhood/early teen thumb sucking).

After the permanent teeth come in, sucking may cause problems with the alignment of the teeth, proper growth of the mouth, and can change the shape of the roof of the mouth. The intensity of the sucking is a factor that determines whether or not dental problems may result. If children rest their thumbs passively in their mouths, they are less likely to have difficulty than those who vigorously suck their thumbs. Some aggressive thumb suckers may cause problems with their baby (primary) teeth toot.  . If you notice changes in your child’s primary teeth, or irregularities in your child’s permanent teeth, consult Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates.

Tips

• Let your child decide when THEY are ready to stop their thumb sucking habit.
• Scolding your child for sucking their thumb or embarrassing them typically creates resistance and rebellion and they will work against  YOUR wishes.
• Children often suck their thumbs when feeling insecure or needing comfort. Tune in to you child's insecurities and give them unconditional love. 
• Most kids start backing off when they feel peer pressure...even as early as kindergarten.
• Dr. Crete can help you assess  your child's habits and coach you on the best approach for YOUR child. .
• Consider the "Risk-Reward" factor of stopping a thumb sucking habit.....sometimes it may not be worth the psychological and emotional impact that parental forced control has on the child. 

Below is an image of the typical problems caused by excessive thumb sucking. Notice the open bite despite this child’s attempts to close together.

The new year is the perfect time to look your very best. When the holiday parties are over and you're in need of a healthier, more youthful smile, we have a number of different options for you. Your front teeth might not be missing, but if your teeth are chipped or not as white or straight as you would like them to be, Rivertown Dental can help you brighten your smile this holiday season and into the new year.

Did you know your smile is one of your most eye-catching features? And it’s also one of the easiest features to improve and enhance with cosmetic dentistry from Dr. Crete at Rivertown Dental Associates. Through the use of new dental technology and treatments such as teeth whitening, veneers, and Invisalign, attaining the smile you’ve always wished for is now easier than ever.

A New Meaning to the “White Christmas” 
Treat yourself this holiday season with a nice white smile or consider giving a teeth whitening certificate as a gift. At Rivertown Dental Associates, we offer multiple whitening solutions to brighten your smile and eliminate pesky stains. For instant results or for a special occasion, our BriteSmile procedure is performed in our office and can whiten your teeth several shades in just one appointment! The at-home whitening technique can be applied in the comfort of your own home. We can help you determine the best treatment for your specific needs. Both methods are safe, effective and whiten teeth by several shades. Schedule an appointment with us today!

We offer many other procedures that will help you get the smile of your dreams. Porcelain veneers are a great way to mask dental blemishes, including chipped, stained and crooked teeth. These thin, translucent shells have the ability to mimic natural tooth enamel, making them virtually indistinguishable from your existing teeth. With veneers, you can improve the shape, size, length and color of your teeth all in a few appointments.

Its important to note that white teeth don't necessarily mean your teeth are healthy. Be sure to have regular check-ups at Rivertown Dental to ensure your smile lasts a lifetime!

Be ready to look your best this holiday season and into the new year with the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. You’ll look stunning for all of your holiday gatherings and ready to ring in the New Year with a more confident you. Contact Rivertown Dental Associates or Schedule an Appointment online today!

Sleep apnea is a serious sleeping disorder affecting many people in Grand Rapids and West Michigan. Apnea literally means “the absence of breathing”.  Sleep apnea has two different forms. The more common of the two forms is obstructive sleep apnea. In this type of sleep apnea, the throat muscles relax to a point where the airway collapses. This prevents air from entering through the nose and mouth, but the breathing effort continues. The second, and less common type of sleep apnea, is central sleep apnea. This occurs when the breathing interruptions while sleeping are triggered by problems with the brain mechanisms that control breathing.

People with sleep apnea stop breathing at points throughout the night for 10 seconds or more. During these periods of no breathing, the brain will wake up to remind the body to breathe. When this happens frequently throughout the night, you are unable to obtain the best quality sleep your body needs.

If you suspect you may suffer from sleep apnea, Dr. Crete and your physician can help diagnose the disorder and help you sleep well again. Obstructive sleep apnea can be cured with custom mouthguard appliances which help maintain the patency of your airway so there is no obstruction to air flow. Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates can fit you for a custom snore guard. It will help you sleep better and will drastically cut down on your snoring habits! The result is more sleep for everyone in your household. Schedule an appointment with Rivertown Dental Associates today for a check-up and to see if you could benefit from sleep apnea relief.

Rivertown Dental Associates is a family and cosmetic dentist serving Grand Rapids, Grandville, Jenison, and surrounding West Michigan cities. 

The last time I was at a grocery store, there were endless choices when it came to choosing a toothpaste. Here are some suggestions for finding the toothpaste that is best for you. It is important to remember that while toothpaste is a valuable addition to a toothbrush in oral hygiene, it is the correct brushing action that removes the plaque (the sticky mixture of bacteria, food and debris) from your teeth. Equally important, is choosing a toothpaste that tastes, feels, and works the best for you. That way, you’ll be more likely to use it on a regular basis!

Fluoride:

Any brand of toothpaste that contains fluoride and the American Dental Association Seal of Approval to attest that there is evidence of its safety, reliability and effectiveness through clinical trials, is acceptable. It makes no difference if the toothpaste is a gel, paste or powder, or which flavoring agent is used.

Other than fluoride, which strengthens the enameland fights decay, toothpastes contain abrasives to remove stains and polish the teeth and ingredients to leave the mouth with a clean, fresh feeling.

Tartar Control:

There are brands of toothpaste claim to be "tartar control" toothpastes and usually have the active ingredient pyrophosphate. While it will not remove tartar, studies have shown it will reduce tartar formation up to 36%. Tartar (calculus) can only be removed with a professional cleaning. (Don’t forget to schedule your next cleaning!)

Sensitivity:

Many toothpastes are available if you have sensitivity. These toothpastes work by blocking the open tubules that lead to the nerves inside your teeth. While sensitivity toothpastes may work in the short term, it is always best to have the sensitivity addressed by Rivertown Dental Associates as it may point to an underlying problem such as gum recession or the loss of healthy tooth structure.

Whitening:

If you desire whitening toothpaste, look for the active whitening agents of carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. These toothpastes serve best to maintain the tooth shade after bleaching procedures. Dr. Crete is highly educated on the different whitening techniques that areavailable today. More information on teeth whitening is available in our teeth whitening pages.

Dentures:

If you wear partial or full dentures, they will also stain and absorb odors. Ask Dr. Crete to recommend an ADA-accepted denture cleaning paste or solution.

When brushing, it is not necessary to overload your brush with toothpaste. Squeeze a pea-sized amount on the top of the bristles. Correct brushing techniques will cause the paste to foam and cover all of your teeth. For questions regarding the toothpaste that's right for you, feel free to contact us or ask us during your next appointment.

For more questions about your oral health, our dentist Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates are always available online (click here) or by phone at 616-534-0135 to answer your dental related questions.

Need to make an appointment for dental care in Grand Rapids, Grandville, or Jenison? Fill out a Rivertown Dental appointment request today!

A tooth causing pain or sensitivity is a bothersome nuisance. When a tooth or a group of teeth cause pain it can range from mild discomfort or sensitivity to an excruciatingly painful experience. Thankfully, the experts at Rivertown Dental Associates are familiar with the causes and conditions that lead to tooth pain. Dr. Crete has helped patients from all over the Grand Rapids area deal with their dental pain.

When the nerves inside your teeth are stimulated, a message is sent to your brain communicating a number of different sensations. These nerves are responsible for carrying sensations like heat, cold, touch and PAIN to the brain.

Causes of toothpain

Tooth Decay or Cavities

The most common cause of tooth pain is Tooth Decay. Tooth decay is the degradation of the tooth due to harmful acids secreted by bacteria in the oral cavity. This can even occur on teeth that have already been treated for cavities. If a filling is not properly maintained and cleaned, leakage around the restoration can lead to bacteria penetrating the tooth structure.

Gum Disease

The next important cause of tooth pain is gum disease. Poor oral hygiene leads to bacteria accumulation in the gums which release toxins that damage the gums. The gums become swollen, red and painful (Gingivitis). If gum disease is not controlled early, you are at a risk of losing your teeth. Rivertown Dental Associates are experts in providing care for people with gum disease. Together, we can stop the disease process and ensure that you keep your natural teeth for a lifetime.

Root Sensitivity

Root sensitivity is when the roots of the teeth become exposed due to recession of the gums. The nerves in the roots are more easily stimulated than the nerves in other areas of your teeth. Exposed roots are very sensitive and respond with pain when stimulated. Preventing gum recession is important to minimize root sensitivity.

Cracked teeth

A painful accidental blow or extreme biting force can cause a tooth fracture that can become a source of intense pain whenever the fractured tooth is even touched. Cracked teeth are especially painful when biting down or releasing pressure after biting down.

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Disorder

TMJ disorder is an inflammatory reaction at the sight of the joint of the lower jaw and the skull. Various factors such as Bruxism (Night grinding or teeth grinding), stress, and arthritis can cause TMJ disorders.

Wisdom tooth eruption or impaction

The eruption of wisdom teeth often causes pain due to the pressure they place on other teeth. The wisdom tooth can become impacted (does not erupt) and require surgical extraction by an oral surgeon.

Ear and Sinus infections

Recent sinus infections are a common cause for sensitivity in your upper teeth. Because your sinuses are located close to the roots of your upper teeth, pain in the teeth can be a common interpretation of the swelling and inflammation in your sinuses. All signs and symptoms of the sinus infection should be treated prior to initiating dental intervention of the pain.

Prevention of toothpain

Visiting Rivertown Dental Associates for regular check-ups and maintaining a strict oral hygiene routine will help to prevent tooth pain.

Treatment for Tooth Pain

The treatments for tooth pain vary greatly. They treat the actual cause of your tooth pain. For example, if you have tooth decay, you will need to have a filling. If the tooth decay has reached your pulp, you would have to undergo treatment of the root canal. If you have impacted Wisdom tooth, they will need to be extracted. Gum disease will require a regimen for improved oral hygiene. Exposed roots may require desensitization or require periodontal surgery to replace lost gum tissue.

Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates will determine the best treatment option for you. Schedule an appointment with us today regardless of whether or not you are in pain. We can usually catch the problems before they cause you to loose sleep!

Rivertown Dental Associates is a West Michigan Dentist in Grandville, MI dedicated to treating our patients with respect and honesty. Dr. Crete and the Rivertown Dental Associates staff believe that a good partnership with our patients can help them achieve long term success for all of their natural teeth.

If you have diabetes, keeping your glucose level within a healthy range and regular checkups with Rivertown Dental Associates are the keys to managing your oral health.  Uncontrolled diabetes can lower your body’s ability to fight infection and hinder the healing process. These changes affect your teeth and gums leading to an increased risk for periodontal (gum) disease.

High sugar levels in saliva help bacteria thrive on your teeth and form plaque. Plaque is the chalky film of bacteria that develops within hours of eating. Plaque that is not removed can harden into tartar. When tartar collects above the gumline, brushing and cleaning between teeth becomes more difficult. Tartar that forms below the gums cannot be removed with normal brushing and flossing but must be removed using special techniques in the dental office.

Diabetes can also reduce the body’s resistance to infection, which can affect gums. An infection of the gum tissues can lead to periodontal disease — chronic inflammation and infection of the gums. Because diabetes may compromise or impair the healing process, periodontal abscesses can develop. One of the main reasons that teeth are lost is due to periodontal disease.

If you notice any of the following warning signs of periodontal disease, come into see Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates immediately:

• Swollen or tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Persistent bad breath or bad taste
• Permanent teeth that are loose

It’s also possible to have periodontal disease and not have these warning signs or have different symptoms. That’s why regular dental checkups and periodontal examinations are so important.

Eating a healthy diet, taking insulin or oral medications as your doctor directs and advising Rivertown Dental Associates about your condition will help you successfully manage the oral complications of diabetes. At Rivertown Dental Associates, our goal is that all of our patients maintain their natural teeth for a lifetime. We pay special attention to your gums as well as your teeth. By coming in for regular checkups and cleanings, we can form a partnership with you to prevent tooth loss from uncontrolled periodontal disease. Schedule your next appointment today at http://www.rivertowndental.com/schedule-an-appointment 

Just about everyone has bad breath (Halitosis) at some time. For some people, bad breath occurs after enjoying sulfur containing foods (onions, garlic, and cabbage). For others, bad breath occurs on a more regular basis not relating to the foods they eat.

While about ten percent of chronic cases of halitosis are due to certain medications or medical conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or liver disease, the other ninety percent of people with bad breath can blame the degradation of naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria thrive in dark, oxygen-poor environments like your gums, the back of your tongue and around the roots of your teeth.

When these bacteria are hiding out on the back of your tongue, you can keep your mouth smelling fresh by proper brushing, flossing, keeping your mouth moist and using a tongue scraper on a regular basis. Avoiding foods containing sulfur (onions, garlic, and cabbage) will also help as these foods produce sulfurous gases as you digest them.

For cases where bacteria are hiding out underneath your gums or around the roots of your teeth, you may not be able to cure your own halitosis. When this occurs, Dr. Crete and the staff at Rivertown Dental Associates can provide treatments to address the bugs hiding out in these hard to clean places. Contact Rivertown Dental Associates for more information.

Mouthwashes have been marketed for years as solutions for breath problems, but most only mask the problem for a short time. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can make matters worse as alcohol will dry out your mouth which permits the bacteria to flourish. At your next appointment, be sure to ask Dr. Crete which mouthwash is right for you. A combination of professional cleanings, correct mouthwash and tongue scraping in addition to your everyday oral hygiene procedures will be a great combination to combat halitosis.  

Oral cancer is the sixth most common cancer with roughly 40,000 new cases of oral cancer reported annually in the United States. The vast majority of oral cancers occur in people older than 45 years, with men being twice as likely as women to develop the disease.

The most frequent oral cancer sites are the tongue, the floor of the mouth, and soft palate tissue areas in back of the tongue, lips, and gums. If not diagnosed and treated in its early stages, oral cancer can spread, leading to chronic pain, loss of function, irreparable facial and oral disfigurement following surgery, and even death.

Dr. Crete and the staff at Rivertown Dental Associates are experts in screening for oral cancer and do so during every routine checkup. You can help prevent oral cancer by abstaining from smoking, using spit tobacco or drinking excessive alcohol. Research suggests that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables may safeguard against oral cancer.

As always, if you have any questions about oral cancer or any abnormalities you may discover in your own mouth, don’t hesitate to contact us and come in for a check-up.

At Rivertown Dental Associates, we offer in-office cosmetic tooth whitening procedures that our patients around West Michigan have enjoyed. Whether you’ve had your teeth professionally whitened or you simply want to maintain the appearance of your teeth as they are, it is valuable to know what foods will stain teeth to avoid the need for more whitening treatment. There are quite a few foods and drinks that tend to discolor your teeth. It isn’t necessary to avoid these foods altogether, however, trying to limiting their intake and washing or brushing after consuming these foods can make a big difference.

Coffee

There is nothing like a hot cup of coffee to start your morning. Coffee however has quite a discoloring effect on your teeth. Also, because of its availability in most offices and on most street corners, it tends to be addicting leading to increased staining potential.  Next time you go to the local Grand Rapids Starbucks or Biggby Coffee, request that your coffee come with a straw. This limits the exposure of coffee to your front teeth.  Another solution is to brush your teeth more frequently. Keep a toothbrush available at work to brush after lunch and chew sugarless gum after coffee intake.

Red wine

Red wine contains tannins and polyphenols that stain your teeth. The alcohol in red wine is very acidic and thus will wears down the enamel of your teeth. Even though it may seem like a good idea to brush your teeth immediately after consuming red wine, don’t do it! Dental enamel is very vulnerable to abrasion from tooth brushing for up to 30 minutes after the consumption of acidic foods or beverages. Rather, rinse your mouth out with water  and consider chewing sugarless gum.

Tea

Like wine, the ordinary black tea most people drink is rich in stain-promoting tannins. In contrast to coffee, tea has some alternatives such as green, white and herbal teas. These are, in fact, good for your teeth. So avoiding staining teeth by tea drinking is as simple as switching to teeth friendly non-black tea alternatives.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce forms an integral part of Asian food and adds great flavor to a variety of dishes. Unfortunately, it contains strong staining agents and the sauce tends to stick to the teeth. This allows for staining pigments to penetrate deeper in to the teeth.

Curry

 It’s spicy, hot and tasty but comes with its own demerits as well. The herbs and spices used in Indian curries are very likely to impart strong stains on your teeth. Next time you’reenjoying delicious Indian cuisine, consider drinking plenty of water with your food besides brushing teeth and chewing sugarless gum soon after.

Cola

Cola drinks not only stain and discolor your teeth but also erode enamel and cause tooth decay due to the harmfulphosphoric acid, citric acid and sugar content in them. These are often served chilled which causes the enamel to become more vulnerable to staining.  Similar to coffee, minimize the staining effect of cola by drinking it through a straw.

Using these techniques, we hope that you are able to conserve your beautiful smile. Dr. Michael J. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates are available if you have more questions about your oral health or would like to see if an in-office teeth whitening procedure is right for you. Call us today or set up a dentist appointment at our Grandville, MI dental office today!

If you have a missing tooth, replacing it and returning to your flawless smile is an important priority. A difficult decision is choosing between replacing the tooth with a dental implant or with a bridge. Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates have satisfied patients all around the Grand Rapids area who have undergone both of these procedures. As a Grand Rapids dentist, Dr. Crete has had many opportunities to explain the advantages and disadvantages of both of these options. Perhaps the most apparent advantage to a bridge is that it does not need to be placed into bone. Bridge placement relies strictly on the teeth to either side of the treatment area. The dentist files down the teeth on either side which then act as supports to hold the bridge in place. These support teeth are still vulnerable to decay and can fall victim to disease so the bridge requires special cleaning for long-term success.One of the most beneficial factors to implants is that they do not affect any adjacent teeth. Additionally, implants are immune to decay or disease because they are made from metal and other non-natural materials. Implants have a significant advantage when it comes to cleaning. To keep them clean, you simply follow your normal dental care guidelines with an emphasis on flossing. However,since dental implants are placed directly into bone, there needs to be adequate support and bone structure available. 

When comparing the two treatments, aesthetic value becomes an important question for many of Dr. Crete’s patients. While both treatments mimic your real smile with great accuracy, implantable crowns are almost indiscernible from the real thing. The prosthetic treatment of a bridge still looks very natural, but the connective feature of the false crowns may be noticeable. Dr. Crete is a cosmetic and family dentist serving Grand Rapids and surrounding areas. Feel free to contact the Rivertown Dental staff today with any questions regarding dental implants or bridges. Also, we’d love to have youjoin our dental practice and discover why so many of our patients from Grand Rapids, Grandville and all around West Michigan enjoy visiting the dentist!

For many years, we’ve heard people around the Grand Rapids area talk about being frustrated that they seem to have a cavity every time they visited their West Michigan dentist. Most people looking for quality dental care assumed that if they didn’t eat candy or drink pop they shouldn't end up with any cavities. While it is true that eating candy and drinking pop contribute to tooth decay, the latest research points to other dietary considerations that may be an even more important factor for developing cavities. Studies have shown that the frequency and nature of fermentable carbohydrate (sugar) intake is more important than the amount consumed. If you’re someone who likes to snack frequently or if you like to consume sticky foods like caramel and gum, the bacteria in your mouth have increased exposure to carbohydrates which are broken down and metabolized into acids leading to tooth decay. 

So what can you do to prevent this problem? Avoid having sugar in your mouth for long periods of time and avoid repeated snacking throughout the day. Refrain from sucking candies and chewing gum containing sugar and avoid drinking soda regularly unless it is sugar free. If snacking is a must, try to substitute foods that are less likely to promote tooth decay such as pretzels, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Consuming sweets along with a meal or for dessert is less detrimental because an increase in saliva flow during meals helps to wash the food away. As always, brush your teeth regularly to make sure to cut down on the plaque and sugars in and on your teeth.

For more questions about your oral health, our dentist Dr. Crete and Rivertown Dental Associates are always available online (click here) or by phone at 616-534-0135 to answer your dental related questions.

Need to make an appointment for dental care in Grand Rapids, Grandville, or Jenison? Fill out a Rivertown Dental appointment request today!

Gum disease is sly – often turning up without symptoms. Infact, it’s also responsible for more tooth loss than any other dental problem.Gum disease is an infection caused by plaque – the white film of harmful bacteria on your teeth that irritates the gum tissue. Eventually, withoutproper treatment, the gums will fall away from the teeth and the bone that holds your teeth in place may be lost.

You could have gum disease if you experience:

·red, swollen, or tender gums;

·gums that bleed when you brush;

·receding gums;

·loose teeth;

·a change in your bite;

·chronic bad breath.

If caught early enough, gum disease can be treated and sometimes reversed. There’s no way to determine its severity without a detailed examination by a dentist. Checking for gum disease is part of every check-up at Rivertown Dental. Schedule an Appointment today for your next visit with us.

Jaw Pain

Do you have frequent headaches, earaches, tender jaw muscles, or a dull, aching facial pain?  Does your jaw lock or stray to one side when you open your mouth?  These aches and pains may be related to the jaw joint, called the temporomandibular joint or "TMJ," and the muscles that work to move the joints.  These painful conditions are often called "TMD" or "TMJ" for temporomadibular joint disorders.  Dr. Michael J. Crete has treated many patients in the Grand Rapids area who are now living pain free.  If you would like to learn how your teeth and bite can cause these symptoms, contact Dr. Crete to learn more about TMD and TMJ treatment options.