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5 Steps to Help you Adjust to your New Dentures

Posted on September 9, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
new dentures

new denturesRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Dentures can restore function and aesthetics to people’s smiles, helping them feel more confident during an otherwise daunting transition. Learning to eat and speak with new dentures can be a challenge that requires time and patience. Our family dentist in Royal Oak compiled the following tips to help you navigate the process smoothly:

  1. Have patience

Adjusting to dentures can take some time. Dentures may at first feel bulky or uncomfortable, and you may find it difficult to eat or speak. Be patient with yourself as you adapt to this significant change. While it’s common and normal to experience some discomfort at first, those feelings will improve as you become accustomed to wearing your dentures.

  1. Follow proper denture care procedures

Just like with natural teeth, having a strong oral hygiene routine will help the longevity and comfort of your new dentures. Dentures require regular cleaning to prevent plaque buildup and ensure freshness — no different than natural teeth. Brush your dentures daily with a soft-bristled brush and a non-abrasive denture cleaner to remove food particles and bacteria. Be sure to remove your dentures at night to give your gums a chance to rest and recover.

  1. Start with soft foods

As you’re growing accustomed to wearing your new dentures, our Birmingham family dentist recommends sticking to soft, easy-to-chew foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, soup and scrambled eggs. As you feel more comfortable, you can gradually add firmer foods. Avoid sticky or hard foods that can get into your dentures and cause discomfort. Cutting your food into smaller pieces and chewing slowly and evenly can help prevent slipping or irritation.

  1. Practice speaking

Speaking with dentures may feel awkward at first because they can affect the way your tongue and lips move. To improve your speech clarity, practice reading aloud or repeating challenging words and phrases. Take your time to enunciate each word clearly, and try to spend a few minutes each day practicing in front of a mirror. With practice, your tongue and oral muscles will adapt to your dentures, and your speech will become more natural.

  1. Come see us!

Regular visits to our dentist office in Royal Oak will help us monitor the fit and condition of your dentures. We can make adjustments to ensure a comfortable fit and address any issues or concerns that you may have. Routine dental exams allow us to assess the health of your gums and oral tissues, helping to prevent any potential complications.

Sleep apnea dentist in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan

We know adjusting to dentures can be challenging, but we are here to help. Call us at Hartrick Dentistry, (248) 712-1149, or reach us online today if you have questions or any issues with your dentures.

Posted in General Dentistry

5 Ways Cosmetic Dentistry can Help you Make a Great First Impression

Posted on September 2, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
cosmetic dentistry

cosmetic dentistryRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Ever hear the old saying that you never have a second chance to make a first impression? That initial meeting with someone, whether it is in your personal life or your professional life, can be crucial. One recent study found that more than two-thirds of those who responded identified the smile as the first physical feature they notice when meeting someone for the first time. How you feel about your smile can greatly influence your willingness to show it. If you perceive an aesthetic flaw in your smile, cosmetic dentistry can address the issue and transform the appearance of your smile. Today on the blog, we examine five ways that cosmetic dental procedures can help you make a better first impression.

Teeth whitening – Brightening your smile can make a dramatic difference in the appearance of your smile, which can lead to a major improvement in the first impression you make to others. Our professional whitening procedures produce longer-lasting results and, since Dr. Hartrick is supervising, you have a lower risk of experiencing heightened dental sensitivity.

Veneers –  A skilled cosmetic dentist places veneers, which are thin shells of material, on the front of the teeth you want to treat to address a wide variety of aesthetic flaws. Hartrick Dentistry works with veneers made of dental porcelain, a beautiful, durable, stain-resistant material. Dental porcelain also has a light-reflecting quality similar to real tooth enamel.

Crowns – Maybe you have an individual tooth that has you feeling self-conscious about your smile. A dental crown replaces the entire exterior of a tooth that is badly damaged, differently sized or misshapen. A crown also can replace any existing dental restorations that are old or failing. Dr. Hartrick places a crown at the conclusion of either a root canal or a dental implant procedure.

Composite fillings –  If you have an older dental filling, it is probably silverish in appearance and made of amalgam. These amalgam fillings appear as dark spots in the mouth. They also can expand and contract in reaction to the normal temperature changes in the mouth when you eat and drink. Hartrick Dentistry offers fillings made of a tooth-colored composite material, which can be customized to match the other healthy teeth in your mouth, thus allowing the filling to blend in with your smile.

Dental implants – Living with a lost permanent tooth leaves a gap in your smile that, among other things, can make you extremely self-conscious. An implant is the finest method of tooth replacement that currently is available in restorative dentistry. No other tooth replacement option looks, feels and functions more than the real thing. The key component of an implant is the implant screw itself. This durable metal screw is inserted into the jawbone, providing the stimulation to the supporting bone structure that previously came from the missing tooth root.

Cosmetic dentistry in Royal Oak and Birmingham in Michigan

Now that you have learned about how cosmetic dentistry can improve your first impression, are you ready to learn more? Then schedule a consultation with Dr. Nancy Hartrick today. At this meeting, you can discuss your aesthetic goals, while she reviews your current oral health and past dental history to identify if you are a good candidate for the cosmetic dental work that you desire. To schedule your appointment, call (248) 549-0950.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

How TMJ Disorder Could be Causing your Chronic Pain

Posted on August 11, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
tmj causing pain

tmj causing painRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Do you have chronic headaches and/or pain in your face, neck or jaw that may feel a bit better after taking over-the-counter pain relievers but always comes back? If you’ve been suffering from chronic pain for a while, we have good news for you. You may be able to find relief after just one visit to our family dentist in Royal Oak who treats temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD).

What is TMJ disorder?

The TMJ acts as a hinge connecting the jaw to the skull. It is part of a complex system of muscles, ligaments, discs and bones that work together to facilitate movements like chewing, speaking and yawning. When this system becomes dysfunctional, it can result in TMJ disorder.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorder?

TMJ can present itself with many symptoms, but the most common include:

  • Clicking or popping noises in the jaw joint, especially when opening and closing the mouth
  • Jaw pain or tenderness
  • Difficulty or discomfort when chewing
  • Locking of the jaw joint, making it difficult to open or close the mouth
  • Pain or ringing deep in the ears
  • Chronic headaches, neck pain or facial pain
  • Muscle stiffness or spasms in the jaw or neck
  • Changes in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together (malocclusion)

How does TMJ disorder cause chronic pain?

TMD can cause muscle tension and stiffness, which can lead to chronic tension-type headaches. Also, pain in one part of the face, neck or head can travel along the cranial trigeminal nerve to other parts of the head. So while TMD symptoms are typically localized to the jaw area, any dysfunction there can have widespread effects.

How can my chronic pain be resolved?

At Hartrick Dentistry, we have solved many cases of TMD-related chronic pain through comfortable and non-invasive oral appliance therapy. Many symptoms of TMJ disorder — especially bruxism, or the clenching and grinding of teeth — are exacerbated at night during sleep. Wearing a mouthguard at night repositions the jaw to prevent incidences of teeth grinding, and it also opens the airway to prevent snoring. This mitigates many of our patients’ TMJ-related symptoms during the day and leads to much better rest at night.

TMJ dentist in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan

If you’ve been suffering from chronic pain, we know you want to find a solution. Our TMJ dentist in Birmingham at Hartrick Dentistry is trained to determine if you have TMD through a simple consultation and exam. If it is determined you have TMD, you may be able to walk out of our office that same day with a custom oral appliance that will improve your quality of life practically overnight. Call us today at (248) 712-1149, or reach out to us online to schedule an appointment today.

Posted in TMJ

5 Signs of Sleep Apnea You should Not Ignore

Posted on August 4, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
sleep apnea symptoms

sleep apnea symptomsRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Sleep apnea is a dangerous sleep-breathing disorder that affects millions, but many people don’t realize they have it. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) causes repeated pauses in breathing during the night, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and potentially serious health consequences. This is why it’s important that if you have (or notice in your bed partner) any of the following OSA signs and symptoms, you call our sleep apnea dentist in Royal Oak right away to schedule an appointment. Recognizing the signs and symptoms will help you seek timely treatment so we can intervene and help improve your overall health and well-being.

  1. Loud snoring

The most hallmark sign of sleep apnea is loud, persistent snoring. Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the throat area relax, causing an obstructed airway. Snoring is the vibrating sound of air struggling to make it through the airway. Sometimes, snoring at night is common and normal, especially if someone has a cold or allergies. But if snoring is accompanied by pauses in breathing followed by choking or gasping noises, it is most likely sleep apnea.

  1. Breathing pauses

Sleep apnea can cause lengthy and frequent pauses in breathing at night. They can last several seconds to a minute or more and occur 100 times or more in the most severe cases. When the pauses happen, the brain responds by startling the person awake to breathe. While the person suffering from OSA may not recall being woken up so many times at night, the sleep cycle disruptions can make them feel severe fatigue during the day.

  1. Daytime fatigue or excessive sleepiness

People who have sleep apnea can get a recommended eight hours of sleep or more and still wake up feeling unrefreshed and exhausted. This persistent fatigue can interfere with daily activities, work performance and a person’s overall quality of life.

  1. Morning headaches

If you find that you regularly wake up with chronic, unexplained headaches, you may have sleep apnea. The link between sleep apnea and morning headaches is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the fluctuation of oxygen levels and increased carbon dioxide levels during breathing pauses.

  1. Irritability and/or mood swings

Chronic sleep disruption and oxygen deprivation during sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings and difficulty focusing and concentrating. If you have sleep apnea, you may experience heightened irritability, feelings of frustration and decreased tolerance for stressors in your daily life. This can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression.

Sleep apnea dentist in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan

Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder that, if left untreated, can have serious implications for health and quality of life. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea is the first step toward seeking an appropriate diagnosis and treatment. At Hartrick Dentistry, our Birmingham family dentists can treat mild to moderate cases of sleep apnea with the use of simple oral appliance therapy. Comfortable, custom-made mouthguards may be your ticket to a more solid, refreshing night of sleep. If you believe that you or your sleeping partner may have OSA, call us at (248) 712-1149, or reach us online today to schedule an appointment.

Posted in Sleep Apnea

Can Toothaches Cause Ear Pain Too?

Posted on July 11, 2024 by Admin Team
toothache and ear pain

toothache and ear painRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Pain in the gums is the most unexpected and unpleasant companion that may spoil even the best day. Toothaches can be extremely painful but can range from a mild ache to a consistent throbbing. That throbbing pain associated with a toothache could seem like an earache. On the blog today, Dr. Nancy Hartrick, our trusted dentist in Royal Oak, explores the connection between toothaches and ear pain.

What are the main causes of toothaches?

The culprits can vary, but they typically revolve around one common theme: inflammation of a nerve that lies alongside or within a tooth’s canal. Many times, the nerve endings of the tooth become exposed to bacteria resulting from cavities or structural compromises and can cause an infection. Furthermore, other causes include injuries or abscessed teeth that can lead to excruciating pain that does not relent.

What are the types of pain I may encounter?

It may begin with an occasional zing of pain, a sensation well-known by those who have experienced it. On the other hand, it could turn into a constant, pounding pain, which will not go away, even when using over-the-counter medications for relief. Our trusted dentist in Birmingham has valuable advice to give regarding dental discomfort. She insists that patients should never consider any toothache trivial and ignore it. Ideally, you should tend to toothaches while they are still relatively mild so that they don’t worsen and require extensive procedures.

How can a toothache cause ear pain?

The cranial trigeminal nerve, which interconnects the face, jaw, and head forms a rather complicated system. When your tooth sends painful signals, these nerves can send pain messages to your ears. It’s like a communication process where information sent from an organ ends up at various undesired locations and unconventionally so, with painful messages.

Moreover, an abscessed tooth is a product of a bad infection and doesn’t stop giving you a swollen face and breath-inducing pain. It’s also well-known to send painful sensations to the adjacent regions, particularly the ears. If not controlled, it can cause a lot of health problems and can be a menace to your general well-being.

What can I do to stop the toothaches and ear pain?

Our Royal Oak trusted dentist emphasizes the importance of not procrastinating when your mouth feels some pain. Any pain in the teeth, ear, or face shouldn’t be ignored, especially when swelling appears. Therefore, turn to Hartrick Dentistry as soon as possible, and Dr. Hartrick will determine the source of your pain and remedy the problem before it worsens.

Trusted Dentist in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan

Appearing suddenly in the middle of the day, a toothache has the potential to wipe out anyone as it can cause a lot of discomfort, especially if the pain reaches your ears. Do not ignore your toothache, even if the pain comes and goes or seems only mild initially. Contact our Royal Oak area trusted dentist, Dr. Nancy Hartrick, at (248) 549-0950 so that Hartrick Dentistry can assist you in ridding yourself of dental pain for good.

Posted in General Dentistry

The Future of Dental Technology in Royal Oak

Posted on July 3, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
dental technology

dental technologyRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

If you had a cavity when you were younger, what did repairing the tooth entail? You might remember a dentist removing the damaged portion of your tooth with a drill, or the application of a semi-solid goop to make an impression of the tooth so that your filling could be fabricated. And before any of that, you probably received an injection with an incredibly long needle … you know, so you don’t feel anything. Modern dentistry has progressed rapidly in the past few decades and the advancements are not stopping anytime soon.

Now, imagine getting another cavity and going to your dentist, but repairing your tooth is as simple as having a laser beam shot into your mouth, followed by a quick injection of a paste. This may sound like science fiction but it is closer to being reality than you might think. Today on the blog, we take a look ahead to the future of dental technology and how it can improve your care in Royal Oak.

Laser technology: This is already present in many dental practices at the forefront of the field. At Hartrick Dentistry, we currently employ lasers in the form of a diagnodent pen, which can be used to detect tooth decay with 98% accuracy simply by exposing areas of your mouth to the laser light. This is just a taste of what lasers could accomplish in the field of dentistry. In time, lasers may replace drills, and treatments with lasers can be completed with virtually no discomfort, eliminating the need for local anesthetics or numbing pastes.

Regenerating teeth with electrical current: Move over, Doctor Frankenstein! In recent years, dentists created a potentially revolutionary process to remineralize areas of tooth decay through the application of electrical current. This has the chance to alter the way dentists do business and repair teeth. Imagine if, in the future, repairing a cavity is as simple as zapping it with electrical current and letting the tooth heal itself, thus removing the need to receive a filling.

Ultraviolet lights: The use of ultraviolet light is already rather common in dentistry. Using a handheld device, your dentist can expose any troublesome areas of your mouth to a fluorescent ultraviolet light as part of an oral cancer screening. The continued widespread use of this technology can help lead to detection of oral cancer more quickly, thus lowering the mortality rate from cancers of this type.

Digital dentistry: Digital technology has changed almost every aspect of our society. It has altered the way we work, shop and learn. It has also transformed the way dentists care for their patients. Hartrick Dentistry already makes use of digital technology in multiple ways. We store patient records digitally, use a digital X-ray system that is more precise and emits far less radiation than a traditional X-ray machine and capture images of your teeth that get transmitted directly to our computer system thanks to our intraoral camera.

Using state-of-the-art dental technology to provide care

Dr. Nancy Hartrick believes that advanced technology represents a commitment to providing the highest level of care to her patients in Royal Oak, Birmingham and the surrounding areas in Michigan. If you would like to learn more about how we apply technology at our dental practice or schedule a tour of our office, contact Hartrick Dentistry today by calling (248) 549-0950.

Posted in Dental Technology

Popular Cosmetic Dental Procedures in Royal Oak

Posted on June 9, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
cosmetic procedures

cosmetic proceduresRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Are you unhappy with the appearance of your smile? If so, you are not alone. Nearly 60% of respondents to one recent study said they disliked the way their smile looked. Today, getting the smile you always wanted is more attainable than ever thanks to modern cosmetic dentistry. This specialization of dental science uses beautiful materials, advanced techniques and cutting-edge technology to produce beautiful results. Hartrick Dentistry is proud to provide these services to our customers in Royal Oak, Birmingham and the surrounding areas in Michigan. Today on the blog, we take a look at some of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures we perform in Royal Oak.

Teeth whitening: Not only is this the most popular cosmetic procedure at our practice, professional dental whitening is the most common treatment performed in cosmetic dentistry as a whole. It’s popular for several reasons. First, brightening your teeth by just a few shades can make a dramatic difference in the appearance of your smile. Second, a professional whitening treatment produces more significant results that last longer, and does so with lower risk of causing enhanced sensitivity in your teeth because the procedure is overseen by our cosmetic dentist, Dr. Nancy Hartrick. Thirdly, a whitening treatment is convenient, as it can be completed in an hour or less.

Veneers: Are you self-conscious about teeth that are chipped, cracked or broken? Do you have a visible gap between teeth? Maybe you have teeth of different sizes or mild crookedness that makes you embarrassed. Veneers can simultaneously address all of these aesthetic flaws and more. A veneer is a thin shell that fits over the front of the tooth or teeth being treated. At Hartrick Dentistry, we offer veneers made of dental porcelain. This is a beautiful and durable material that resists surface stains and reflects light in a similar manner to genuine tooth enamel. Receiving veneers entails two separate appointments at our dental practice in Royal Oak. Contact our office today if you have questions about our veneer process.

Crowns: Dr. Hartrick believes in preserving your teeth as long it remains feasible to do so. A dental crown can save a tooth even if it is badly damaged due to an injury or decay, by replacing the entire exterior of a tooth. A crown is beautiful, durable and covered in the same dental porcelain we use to make our veneers. That means we can tailor the color of your crown to match the shade of your other natural teeth, allowing your restored tooth to blend seamlessly with the rest of your smile. We also use a crown at the conclusion of either a root canal or dental implant procedure. Our crown procedures also are more convenient than ever thanks to our CEREC computer system. This technology allows us to map, plan and fabricate a permanent crown all in one appointment, rather than having to receive a temporary restoration and then get your final crown at a subsequent visit.

Cosmetic dentistry in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Michigan

The fabulous-looking smile you always wanted is more attainable than you realize. To learn more about the program of cosmetic dentistry that Dr. Nancy Hartrick provides, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Just call (248) 549-0950.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

5 Questions you Should Ask at your Next Dental Checkup

Posted on June 2, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
truth behind dental checkups

truth behind dental checkupsRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Getting a dental checkup every six months is a key component of a good oral health routine. These appointments twice a year also provide you with an ideal opportunity to ask your dentist any questions you may have. But maybe you are unsure what to ask? That’s why, today on the blog, we suggest five questions you should ask at your next dental checkup in Royal Oak.

How can I take good care of my teeth at home?

The American Dental Association recommends the following regimen: brushing twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush, flossing each day and, as mentioned earlier, seeing your dentist every six months. We also suggest you drink plenty of water, avoid eating and drinking too much sugar, eat a well-balanced diet and stop using tobacco in any form.

Why are my teeth sensitive?

Heightened tooth sensitivity usually occurs when you eat or drink something that is hot or cold. This sensitivity could stem from any one of an assortment of oral health issues: gum recession, tooth decay, damaged dental restorations, cracked teeth or weakened tooth enamel. The root cause of dental sensitivity is usually either improper dental care, a poor diet or a combination of the two. You also may be brushing too hard or with a hard-bristled toothbrush or need to switch to a toothpaste made for sensitive teeth.

When should my baby start going to the dentist?

The ADA advises children should begin going to the dentist when you reach your first birthday or when their first baby tooth emerges from the gum line – whichever comes first. It’s important to establish good oral hygiene habits as early as possible. Wipe down your baby’s gums after feedings even before any primary teeth begin to erupt from the gum line. Then use an age-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your child’s new primary teeth until they are old enough to brush on their own.

How can I improve the appearance of my smile?

You don’t have to be a rich and famous celebrity to have a perfect-looking smile. Cosmetic dentistry makes it possible for almost anyone to attain a smile that’s worthy of the red carpet. Hartrick Dentistry offers an extensive and varied program of cosmetic dentistry, with popular treatments including teeth whitening and veneers, among others. To learn more, schedule a consultation; at this appointment, you can share your aesthetic goals and Dr. Nancy Hartrick will assess your current oral health and review your dental history to ensure you are a good candidate for cosmetic work.

What signs of gum disease should I watch for?

If you are over the age of 30, you have a 50/50 chance of developing gum disease, according to data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Gum disease is not only widespread, but chronic. Without treatment by an experienced and trained dentist, gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone loss and a host of other serious issues, even significantly raising your risk of cardiac problems. Your regular dental checkups allow your dentist to evaluate your current oral condition and identify any signs of gum disease.

Comprehensive Dental Care in Royal Oak and Birmingham in Michigan

Hartrick Dentistry is a full-service dental practice that offers care for your entire family. If you are overdue for your next dental cleaning or you need to find a dentist to serve you, Dr. Nancy Hartrick currently is accepting new patients. Call (248) 549-0950 to schedule a consultation today.

Posted in General Dentistry

Ranking the 7 Most Effective Whitening Treatments

Posted on May 11, 2024 by Dr. Hartrick's Team
teeth whitening options

teeth whitening optionsRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

Are you unhappy with the appearance of your smile? Maybe you have a big event upcoming and want to ensure your smile looks its best when the photos get taken. A whitening treatment is your solution. Just brightening your teeth by a few shades can dramatically change the appearance of your smile. However, all teeth whitening methods are not created equal. Today on the blog, Dr. Nancy Hartrick breaks down seven whitening treatments, in order of effectiveness from the least to the most.

Mouthwash

Mouthwash can be a valuable addition to your oral routine. We advise choosing a mouthwash that is alcohol free and clear, as colored mouthwash may dim the luster of your teeth. Certain mouthwashes promise whiter teeth but this is the least effective whitening method.

Pens and gels

What do all the store-bought whitening treatments have in common? They use peroxide to remove surface stains. Whitening pens and gels are among the least effective treatments you can choose because they do not make enough contact with your teeth to make a significant difference.

Toothpastes

These days, there are numerous toothpastes out there that, among other beneficial qualities, promise whiter teeth. Depending on the ingredients in the toothpaste you choose, it will be more effective at whitening your teeth. However, even a toothpaste with a powerful whitening agent is only going to be moderately effective.

Whitening strips

These strips represent the most effective store-bought method of whitening your teeth – with store-bought being the key clarifying factor, as we will explain in a bit. You wear the strips for 30 minutes at a time for however many days the instructions dictate; different whitening products have different durations of treatment. However, these strips are only big enough to reach your front six or eight teeth. They also are less effective than prescription-grade whitening treatments and, as a result, the results will not be long-lasting.

Take-home whitening treatment from your dentist

The teeth whitening treatments offered by your dentist represent the pinnacle of whitening effectiveness. This is because these procedures work with bleaching agents that are significantly more powerful than any store-bought alternative. You can come into our office for a whitening treatment or, for maximum convenience, bring one of our professional whitening treatments home and apply it yourself. This entails wearing a custom-made mouthguard that has had our bleaching gel applied. This gel is the same as the products we use in our in-office treatments but there is more room for error because you are using the treatment at home on your own.

In-office whitening procedures

This is the most effective method of whitening your teeth, because you are working with the most powerful bleaching agents possible and the procedure is administered by a trained cosmetic dentist. This lowers the risk of experiencing heightened sensitivity, which is possible with any whitening procedure but especially if you are making repeat applications as the luster fades from your teeth. Hartrick Dentistry offers two in-office whitening methods: Zoom!® and 20 Minute Sinsational Smile®.

Get whiter teeth in Royal Oak

Hartrick Dentistry can whiten your smile in an hour or less and the results are immediately apparent. To find out more about our teeth whitening procedures, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hartrick today at (248) 549-0950.

Posted in Cosmetic Dentistry

5 Tips to Feel more Energy in the Morning

Posted on May 4, 2024 by Admin Team
wake up energized

wake up energizedRoyal Oak and Birmingham, MI

When your alarm goes off in the morning, are you one of those people who hits snooze… or maybe just dismisses the alarm completely and goes back to sleep? Maybe you’re the type of individual who needs an alarm for their alarm. Today on the blog, we go through five tips to feel more energized in the morning and how your dentist – yes, your dentist – can help.

Tip 1: Breakfast

While there is no medical consensus to prove the old cliche about breakfast being the most important meal of the day, eating a healthy breakfast every day does provide a boost in energy. Opt for a good source of lean protein, combined with some complex carbohydrates such as whole-wheat bread or steel-cut oats. This pairing will provide nutrients and energy to your body to sustain you at least until lunch.

Tip 2: What’s the tea?

As in hot tea, which contains caffeine – although less than coffee – to boost your energy. Unlike coffee, tea also can reduce stress, increase antioxidants and improve gut health. Make sure to limit the amount of sugar you add to your tea, which could increase your vulnerability to cavities and tooth decay.

Tip 3: Work it out

Regular daily exercise can give you a boost in energy. It does not have to be overly strenuous; something simple such as running in place, push-ups, sit-ups or squats for one minute can suffice.

Tip 4: Meditate

Meditation can help clear your mind and improve your focus before beginning that day’s list of tasks. There are several different meditation methods: deep breathing, focusing on an immobile object in the room or listening to calming music. There are also apps and online videos to aid meditation. The end result, though, can boost your energy for the day.

Tip 5: Improve your sleep

Your body needs the right amount of quality sleep to function at optimum levels. Quality is the key word here; six hours of deep restful sleep are preferable to seven or more hours of fitful sleep. You can take steps to improve the quality of your sleep: establishing and sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, restricting your consumption of caffeine, refraining from screen time near bedtime, just to name a few tips. However, if you suffer from a sleep breathing disorder such as sleep apnea, getting deep, restful sleep could be impossible to reach until you receive treatment for the disorder.

Obstructive sleep apnea causes blockages in the airway that impede or totally disrupt the flow of air, hindering the oxygen levels in your body and disrupting your sleep. Each of these blockages, known as an apneic event, means you spend less time in the deepest stages of sleep, which can leave you feeling tired and sluggish no matter how early your bedtime may be.

How can your dentist help you feel more energy?

Dr. Nancy Hartrick is a sleep apnea dentist. This means she specializes in airway management and the treatment of sleep apnea without the need for CPAP. She can perform an airway screening, then refer you to a sleep specialist for an official diagnosis of sleep apnea. From there, return to Hartrick Dentistry to receive treatment for your sleep apnea in Royal Oak through oral appliance therapy. This entails wearing a customized mouth guard that brings the lower jaw forward, thus preventing the airway blockages that lead to apneic events.

To find out more about Hartrick Dentistry and our sleep apnea treatment, schedule a consultation today by calling (249) 549-0950.

Posted in Health