4 Smile Boosters

Lehi cosmetic dental and tooth implants

Hi, my name is Drs. Chris Hammond. My dental practice, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, has been serving the Provo, Utah area since 1967. Today in my Orem dental blog, I would like to highlight four ways you can improve your smile.

1. Teeth Whitening is quick and non-invasive. External tooth whitening occurs when teeth whitening agents bleach the teeth directly. This can be done in your home or in the office of your dentist.

2. Dental Implants are another common procedure that many Provo residents seek. A dental implant is secured into the jawbone to replace the roots of a lost tooth. A crown is then attached to the implant to replace the missing tooth. Along with improving appearance and restoring tooth function, the dental implant does double-duty by helping to preserve bone support.

3. Dental Bonding can be done with various materials such as porcelains and composite resins. With recent advances in cosmetic dental services, these materials can more precisely replicate natural tooth structure and natural appearance. This procedure is commonly used to correct chipped or cracked teeth.

4. Periodontal Plastic Surgery is a wonderful solution for gum recession and cosmetic irregularities. Gum tissue is removed or added to give the appropriate framework to the teeth.

I hope this post has helped you to get better acquainted with some highly effective cosmetic dentistry treatments. A combination of procedures can be used to give Provo dental patients a complete smile redesign.

To schedule an appointment at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, give us a call at 801-374-0070.

The following website was used as source material for this blog:
http://www.aacd.com/index.php?module=cms&page=586, accessed on June 12, 2013


Can I Objectively Evaluate My Smile?

esthetic smile design Utah County

It is no secret that a beautiful, pleasing, healthy smile can be your most revered physical attribute. After all, people notice your smile first thing. How do you know if your smile is detracting from your appearance?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder; if you look at your smile in the mirror and believe it is unattractive, it doesn’t really matter what anybody else thinks. But what if you are not sure?

There are many problems that are generally considered to detract from brilliant smiles. Missing teeth is a biggie. People who are missing teeth in the back of the mouth may mistakenly believe that the gap doesn’t show. They are usually wrong. When smiling, talking, laughing, or eating, a missing tooth definitely shows – even if the missing tooth is the very last molar.

Yellow or gray teeth diminish the appeal of a smile – even one that is perfectly healthy and aligned – and crooked teeth are usually considered unattractive.

There are a few unique smile characteristics that some people proudly show off and others wish to change. For instance, a gap between the two front teeth can become your trademark. True Blood star Anna Paquin, actor Woody Harrelson, and singer Seal have retained their spaces. Perhaps the most famous gap-toothed smile belongs to seventy year-old model Lauren Hutton who has proudly flashed it throughout her fifty-year career. Other celebrities such as Zac Efron, Tom Cruise, and Keith Urban weren’t happy with gaps so they transformed their smiles with unprecedented cosmetic dentistry.

If you want an objective aesthetic evaluation of your smile, how can you do this? You can’t see your smile from every angle when you look in the mirror. If you want an expert opinion on the attractiveness of your smile, talk to a cosmetic dentist. There are a surprising number of design principals that are used in cosmetic dental smile makeovers. These include size, shape, alignment, proportion, color, and translucency. Furthermore, cosmetic dentists also consider the characteristics of the gums, lips, and facial features.

When you have a cosmetic dental consultation, you will be able to see how the critical elements work together to create a natural-looking, unforgettable smile. Bottom line? If you want to change your smile, you can! Schedule a consultation today by calling 801-374-0070.


What’s on Your Mind, Provo?

porcelain veneers price Orem

Have you ever wondered:

How much will it cost me to get cosmetic dentistry?
Is there a practice near Orem that focuses on cosmetic dentistry?
Will my dental practice have caring professionals?

You are in luck. We can answer all three of those with very useful answers:

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry has answers about cosmetic dentistry, veneers, dental implants, dental restorations and so much more. We can discuss the cost of root canals, Invisalign braces or teeth whitening; we are here to answer your questions.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry practices cosmetic dentistry and is located right here in Provo at 3575 N 100 E.

Dr. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry understand that people in the Utah County and American Fork areas are looking for good, caring, talented places to provide porcelain veneers, Invisalign, dental crowns and other such services. That’s why Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry brings exceptional skills to the table and says “Come in for a consultation today.”

We enjoy answering your questions about family dentistry, and hope you’ll be our next satisfied patient.

Contact us by phone at: 801-374-0070

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah 84604
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/


Do You Have Xerostomia?

Bad Breath Treatment Orem

Most dental patients in the Orem and American Fork area know that they can go to their local dentist for toothaches, cleanings, and bleeding gums (not to mention cosmetic dentistry procedures such as a smile makeover), but there are some lesser-known oral concerns that your Lehi dentist can also help you with.

Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. It also predisposes Utah dental patients to a host of problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. There are some treatments, but a lot of Provo residents experience dry mouth because of certain medications or diseases, so make sure to bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Bad breath is usually a result of bacteria build-up in the mouth, and regular trips to your Orem dentist can help you keep your mouth clean and the bacteria count within a sweet-smelling range. But, if you have good oral hygiene and regular check-ups and cleanings, then your dentist will be crucial in helping you discover the source of your halitosis.

Jaw clicking and jaw discomfort are symptoms you should have checked with your dentist immediately as they can be a signs of serious oral issues.

Hi. We’re Dr. Hammond, a team of experienced Provo dentists. We want our patients to come to us with all of their oral concerns. The friendly staff here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry would love to schedule an appointment with you and answer any questions you have about the ailments mentioned above, as well as questions about teeth whitening and Utah County dental implants. We would love to hear from you today!

Sedation dentistry
Invisalign
Mini implants
Dental crowns
Porcelain veneers

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/patient-services/


Give Me Some Air

Air Abrasion Dentists How long have dentists been drilling teeth? Would you believe 9,000 years? In an ancient graveyard in Pakistan, archaeologists unearthed skulls containing teeth that had undergone drilling. The stone-age dentists removed decay using drills constructed of sharpened flint.

Though advanced dentistry would not be possible without drilling, the sound of a dental drill can make many Provo patients’ hearts pound. However, there is another way your American Fork cosmetic dentists can remove decay. This technique is known as air abrasion or drill-less dentistry. An air abrasion instrument removes material by spraying tiny aluminum oxide particles onto the tooth. The particles work like a sandblaster spraying away the affected tooth structure.

The many advantages of air abrasion make it a popular procedure for Lehi family dentists. Because air abrasion is usually pain-free, the need for anesthesia is reduced. The air abrasion instrument does not create vibrations or pressure.

Orem cosmetic dentistry patients appreciate the fact that air abrasion instruments don’t produce that whiny drill sound that rings in your ears and makes your palms sweat. Because of this, air abrasion can be a less-frightening option for young Utah County dentistry patients. Air abrasion is often quicker and more precise than traditional drilling, leaving more of the healthy tooth intact.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide anxiety-free dentistry. If you would like to learn more about air abrasion, dentistry sedation or tooth implant cost, call us at 801-374-0070. We are located at 3575 N 100 E in Provo. The caring staff at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is dedicated to your comfort and satisfaction.


Fun Floss Facts For Utah County Smiles

American Fork after hours dental

It’s clear that for the majority of Utah County, Orem, and Lehi residents, the most important aspect of flossing is simply that you do it every single day. However, many dental patients find that trying out a few different types of floss helps them to establish the habit and get the flossing comfort they desire.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of dental floss found in Provo area drugstores.

Basic floss is either a monofilament floss, which is usually made of some kind of rubber or plastic, or multifilament, which is made of nylon or silk. Nylon floss is less expensive, more common and is sold waxed or unwaxed.

Monofilament floss will not rip or tear, and because of this, it is thought to more easily pull in between teeth. This type of floss is sometimes referred to as “glide” floss.

Both monofilament floss and multifilament floss are sold in differing thicknesses, and this is where most dental patients would benefit from finding the size that fits. Since you should not have to snap the floss between your teeth, find the thickness that allows you to gently floss.

Dental tape is nylon floss in the shape of a wide, flat ribbon. Many Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi residents find that dental tape is the easiest floss to get between their teeth.

For those of you with braces or appliances put in by your Orem area orthodontist, there are also flosses designed to be used with these devices. Make sure to discuss flossing with your orthodontist because you don’t want to break this valuable habit just because you’re having your teeth straightened!

A good person to ask about floss advice is your dental hygienist. Here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our hygienists are prepared to answer any questions you have about flossing, brushing habits, and even cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers.

I am Dr. Hammond. Our practice, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, has been serving the Provo area since 1967. Our top services include:

Sedation dentistry
Invisalign
Mini implants
Dental crowns
Porcelain veneers

Call us today at 801-374-0070 for your appointment! You can also visit us on the web at https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/.

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/


The following blog post was used as source material for this blog:
“The Different Types of Dental Floss”, Huffington Post, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thomas-p-connelly-dds/dental-floss_b_1643933.html, accessed on September 17, 2013


3 Ways To Keep Your Mouth Happy, Utah County!

Provo Teeth Bleaching

Hi. We’re Dr. Hammond, a team of experienced dentists here in Provo. It is our goal to help our patients have optimum oral health, and today we would like to talk about something else associated with our mouths that doesn’t get as much attention as cavities or cosmetic dentistry: it’s our sense of taste.

A happy mouth is not only a healthy mouth, but also a mouth that can enjoy the flavors of all types of foods. And it turns out that many of the habits that will keep your taste buds sensitive are those that will also be good for your teeth and gums. So here are a few tips to help you better enjoy the flavor of your food.

1) Treat dry mouth. Dry mouth can create a loss of taste sensitivity, so it should be treated quickly by your Utah County, American Fork, or Lehi dentist. Plus, optimal levels of saliva are important to avoid cavities and keep gums healthy.

2) Avoid processed foods with fake flavors and too much sugar and salt. They will quickly desensitize you to more subtle, healthy flavors.

3) Don’t smoke! Cigarettes are responsible for so many horrible health issues, but many people don’t realize that their sense of taste is dulled while they smoke and the olfactory nerves can even be damaged permanently.

Thank you so much for visiting the Provo dentist blog. Along with dental health and a keen sense of taste, I want my patients to have the beautiful smiles they have always desired. So, if you have any questions regarding cosmetic dentistry such as smile makeovers, dental implants or teeth whitening, please contact us. We are located at 3575 N 100 E and you can reach us for an appointment at 801-374-0070.

Call a member of our caring staff today!

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/


Can You Name 9 Dental Specialties?

Lehi Pediatric and Cosmetic Dentistry

Most Lehi people probably know how a pediatric dentist differs from an orthodontist. Some American Fork dental patients may even know the unique focus of endodontists. But few Utah residents probably know that the American Dental Association recognizes nine dental specialties. Today’s post looks at the specific disciplines within the fascinating world of dentistry and the years in which they were formally recognized by the ADA. (If you want a challenge, see if you can name all nine before you continue reading this post.)

Endodontics (1983): This area focuses on “the morphology, physiology and pathology of the human dental pulp and periradicular tissues.”1 If you need a root canal in Provo, you may require the services of an endodontist.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (2003): If you want to straighten your teeth, you need an orthodontist. Dentofacial orthopedic specialists correct facial deformities using many of the same types of appliances used in teeth straightening therapy.

Pediatric Dentistry (1995): Lehi pediatric dentists provide dental care for infants, children and teenagers.

Periodontics (1992): “Periodontics is that specialty of dentistry which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes.”1 Periodontal specialists perform crown lengthening, pocket reduction, and soft tissue (gum) grafts.

Prosthodontics (2003): Prosthodontists provide restorative dental procedures including dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures. They also perform cosmetic dental treatments including porcelain veneers, crowns, dental bonding, invisible fillings, and teeth bleaching.

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology (1991): This specialty concerns “the nature, identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. It is a science that investigates the causes, processes, and effects of these diseases. The practice of oral pathology includes research and diagnosis of diseases using clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical, or other examinations.”1

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
(2001): Oral and maxillofacial radiologists analyze radiographic images (x-rays) for issues of the maxillofacial area.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (1990): Oral surgeons perform surgery on the teeth, jaw, face, and gums. These include facial reconstruction, cleft lip and palate correction, bone grafting, dental implants, and impacted teeth.

Dental Public Health (1976): This discipline focuses on “preventing and controlling dental diseases and promoting dental health through organized community efforts.”1

General dentists and cosmetic dentists in the Provo area are trained in a wide variety of dental procedures. However, sometimes your Orem general dentist will refer you to a local Orem specialist, or include a specialist as part of your treatment team.

1Specialty Definitions, The American Dental Association, http://www.ada.org/495.aspx, accessed May 22, 2013


6 Ways Dental Crowns Restore Orem Smiles

cost of dental crowns Orem

Dental crowns have been around a long time, and they continue to play an important role in Provo cosmetic dentistry. A dental crown, often called a cap, covers the visible part of the tooth.

Dental crowns are used for several problems common among Orem cosmetic dentistry patients:

An old crown that is damaged or ill-fitting
A broken tooth
A tooth with extreme decay
A tooth that has had a root canal
A tooth that is too small or misshapen
A tooth that prevents a proper bite

A dental crown serves both structural and aesthetic purposes. It protects a natural tooth from additional decay and damage while permitting normal function. In addition, a dental crown often prevents the need for an extraction and the bone loss that can occur with a missing tooth.

Orem cosmetic dentistry patients who get a dental crown should not assume that the tooth is now invincible. Crowns need daily cleaning and flossing just like natural teeth. The remaining tooth structure just around the gumline could still become decayed and the soft tissue around the crown is susceptible to gum disease. Chewing hard foods or using your teeth as a tool can cause a crown to crack or break. (Use scissors to open a stubborn plastic package – don’t bite and pull!) Your Provo cosmetic dentist can advise you on caring for your new crown so that it will last as long as possible. Some of our American Fork, Orem, and Provo patients have crowns that are still looking beautiful after ten years.

For information on Orem dental crown prices, invisible braces, conscious sedation, or teeth whitening, call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today at 801-374-0070 or visit https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/.


5 Cavity Basics For Orem

Orem Cosmetic Dentist

Some of the most popular dental topics discussed in Utah County and Provo relate to cosmetic dentistry, such as teeth whitening, veneers, and dental implants. However, the desire to avoid cavities is still the main reason American Fork and Lehi residents visit their dentists, so today the Provo dental blog is going to highlight the 5 things you need to know about cavities.

1. Cavities can also be called caries or tooth decay. When a tooth is permanently damaged in the hard surface, tiny openings occur. These little holes are cavities.

2. Factors that contribute to tooth decay are:

Frequent eating
Consuming sugary beverages
Oral bacteria
Poor dental hygiene

3. Cavities may get so bad that you will see pits or holes in your teeth, but symptoms may be more subtle, such as sensitivity, pain when biting, or a toothache. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should call your Utah County, American Fork, or Lehi dentist today for an appointment.

4. Cavities are more common among children, but that doesn’t mean adults don’t have to take precautions.

5. Avoiding cavities is simple. Be sure to brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, eat right and avoid snacking, and have regular visits with your dentist.

If you are in the market for quality dental care in the Provo area, give Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry a call.

We have been treating dental patients in and around Orem since 1967. We can also answer any questions you have about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as gum contouring and smile makeovers.

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/