Drs. Gustafson and Morningstar want to know: What helps you relax?

Drs. Gustafson and Morningstar know that not everyone is thrilled to see the dentist. But at Gustafson and Morningstar Dentistry, we strive to bring you the best and most comforting experience -- at each visit. Today, we’d like to know: What is it about Gustafson and Morningstar Dentistry that makes you comfortable or puts you at ease? Is it something about our pleasant environment? Our friendly and courteous professional staff? Perhaps it's something about Drs. Gustafson and Morningstar?

Let us know by posting here or by giving us a call, and enjoy the rest of your week!

March is National Nutrition Month! From Gustafson and Morningstar Family Dentistry

The month of March means one thing: National Nutrition Month. Every March, Drs. Gustafson and Morningstar, as well as thousands of dentists and hygienists celebrate this occasion, and this year is no different. This March, our team at Gustafson and Morningstar Family Dentistry want you to think diabetes, obesity and periodontal disease, and how healthful eating and physical activity may improve periodontal health.

Drs. Gustafson and Morningstar know small changes really can make a big difference, and the American Dietetic Association (ADA) has some advice on ways to start improving your diet this March:

• Focus on fruits and veggies: Add a serving each day to one meal and increase it every few weeks. Adding more of these foods into your diet is important whether you buy frozen, fresh or organic.

• Think fresh, think local: From farmer’s markets to community-supported agriculture, you have many options to find new, fresh foods here in Royal Oak.

• Make each and every calorie count: When you are choosing between options, focus instead on the one with more of the vitamins and nutrients that you need. Sometimes, foods with fewer calories aren’t always the healthiest options.

• It’s tempting, but…: If you have a sweet tooth, have fruit and yogurt for dessert. If you crave a snack in the afternoon, enjoy some trail mix or nuts.

• Expand your horizons: Try a fish you’ve never eaten before or find a new vegetable recipe. By testing yourself, you might find new healthy favorites to add to your regular grocery list.

If you have additional questions about periodontal disease or keeping yourself and your mouth healthy, please give us a call!

A little bit about Gustafson and Morningstar DDS...

Our practice was started in Royal Oak in the early 1940's by our cousin Dr. Norman Vielmette at the corner of Second and Center across from the post office. Our father, Dr. Donald Gustafson, took over the practice in 1957 and relocated the office to its current location in 1971. We have owned the practice since 1988, and recently completed a total remodeling project, including state of the art dental and sterilization equipment.

Today, when people think of going to the dentist they usually think of pain! Actually this is a misconception considering today's advanced dental techniques. At Gustafson & Morningstar Family Dentistry we strive for a "No pain, No Surprises" Dentistry. In fact, we have built more than a dental practice, we have created a Dental Home. Our newly remodeled office provides a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere you would expect in a home setting.

We are committed to patient comfort. In fact, we have built our practice on "No Surprises" Dentistry. With your first visit you will see our commitment to outstanding, long term dental care. By attending continuing educational programs we stay current with the latest equipment and procedures. We provide many of the latest solutions to many common dental problems.

Meet Our Dentists

Dr. Steven D. Gustafson is a native of Royal Oak. He earned his degree in Biology from Adrian College. He then studied for his dental degree at Loyola University Chicago College of Dental Surgery.

He is a member of the Oakland County Dental Society, where he serves as trustee for the Board of Directors and on the Peer Review Committee. He also belongs to the Michigan Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the Crown Council.

A resident of Royal Oak, he is active in the community, serving on the board of the South Oakland Boys and Girls Club. He serves on the Boys and Girls Club State Alliance board and is a past chairman of the Club. He is also a member of the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce, the Royal Oak Optimist Club, the Swedish American Chamber of Commerce, and the University of Southern California Parent Association. Dr. Gustafson is also an alumnus of Leadership Oakland, Class VIII. Along with working on his Master Gardener certificate, he enjoys weight training, biking, and skiing. He is married to Dr. Shari Morningstar and they have two children, Robert and Anna.

Dr. Shari B. Morningstar, originally from Lancaster, California, received her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Gerontology from the University of Southern California.

She is a member of the Oakland County Dental Society, Michigan Dental Association, and the American Dental Association. She is a resident of Royal Oak and a member of the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce, and the University of Southern California Alumni, Trojan Band Alumni, and Parent Association.

Dr. Morningstar enjoys photography, computers and golf. Dr. Morningstar has also earned a 3rd degree Black Belt in Shito Kan Karate.