A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting in Provo, Utah

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

Cheek-biting is a common dental concern that can cause discomfort and lead to oral health issues if left unaddressed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, we recognize the importance of understanding and addressing this issue to ensure our patients’ overall oral well-being.

What is Cheek-Biting?

Cheek-biting, also known as cheek chewing or morsicatio buccarum, occurs when individuals inadvertently bite the inside of their cheeks. This habit can be triggered by stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or habitual behaviors, such as chewing on pens or pencils. It can also be accidental based on chewing speed or a reaction to food shape or texture.

Effects of Cheek-Biting

Cheek-biting can lead to various dental and oral health problems, including:

Soft Tissue Damage: Repeated biting can cause injuries to the delicate lining of the cheeks, resulting in pain, inflammation, and the formation of mouth sores.

Chronic Discomfort: Persistent cheek-biting may lead to chronic discomfort and interfere with eating, speaking, and other daily activities.

Increased Risk of Infection: Injured tissues are more susceptible to infection, which can further exacerbate discomfort and compromise oral health.

Addressing Cheek-Biting

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer personalized solutions to help patients overcome cheek-biting habits and mitigate their effects:

Behavioral Modification: Our team works closely with patients to identify triggers and develop strategies to modify behaviors contributing to cheek-biting, such as stress management techniques or oral habit awareness exercises.

Orthodontic Evaluation: Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to cheek-biting. We conduct comprehensive orthodontic evaluations to assess the alignment of teeth and jaws and recommend appropriate treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, to correct underlying issues.

Protective Measures: In cases where cheek-biting is primarily nocturnal or subconscious, we may recommend the use of custom-made mouthguards or dental appliances to provide a protective barrier and prevent further injury to the cheeks.

Preventive Measures

While addressing cheek-biting habits is essential, practicing preventive measures can also help minimize its occurrence:

Stress Management: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or relaxation exercises, can help alleviate anxiety-related triggers for cheek-biting. In some cases, just slow down a bit.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent complications associated with cheek-biting, such as infection or inflammation.

Cheek-biting can have detrimental effects on oral health and quality of life, but with proactive intervention and preventive measures, it can be effectively managed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive care and personalized solutions to help our patients achieve optimal oral health and well-being. If you or a loved one are experiencing issues related to cheek-biting, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to explore treatment options and regain comfort and confidence in your smile.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, Teeth cleaning

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care and Other Insights from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, we believe in the power of proactive dental care to keep our patients smiling confidently for years to come.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental check-ups allow our skilled team to identify potential dental issues in their earliest stages. By detecting problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, we can intervene promptly and effectively, often preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Preservation of Natural Teeth: Preventative care focuses on preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments, we can help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth, reducing the risk of decay and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for keeping gums healthy and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Studies have shown associations between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing preventative dental care, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also promoting your overall health.

Components of Preventative Care

  • Regular Dental Examinations: Comprehensive dental exams allow us to assess your oral health, identify any concerns, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
  • Professional Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health at home. Our team provides personalized oral hygiene instructions and tips for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is Your Partner in Oral Health

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re committed to providing comprehensive preventative care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. By partnering with us and prioritizing preventative dental visits, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and well-being.

Preventative care is the foundation of a healthy smile and a vital component of overall wellness.

By scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, you’re taking proactive steps to preserve your smile and protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and join us on the journey to lifelong oral health and happiness.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Overlapping Teeth Can Be Corrected for a Beautiful Smile in Provo

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

how to fix overlapping teeth Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide advanced cosmetic dentistry. That means we correct all types of smile shortcomings.

Overlapping teeth are fairly common. And while many individuals don’t mind a slight overlap, others feel self-conscious and would like it corrected.

What causes teeth to overlap?

Genetics or thumbsucking as a toddler can bring about overlapping teeth. Of course, some kids have teeth that just came in that way.

The mouth may be too small to fit all the teeth properly. Or having upper and lower jaws that don’t fit together can be a factor. In addition, an injury can knock the upper and lower jaw out of alignment. In some cases, missing teeth or extra teeth (such as wisdom teeth) can lead to an overlap.

Unfortunately, overlapping teeth can cause oral dilemmas.

When does it become important to correct overlapping teeth?

  • Overlapping teeth cause a lisp,
  • make chewing or speaking difficult,
  • result in jaw pain,
  • trigger tooth grinding or clenching,
  • and cause the person to bite their inner cheeks.

Certainly, there are benefits to fixing overlapping teeth in addition to cosmetic reasons.

How can you fix overlapping teeth? There are several methods for correcting overlapping teeth. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Discuss them with your dentist or orthodontist.

Are traditional braces the only way to fix overlapping teeth?

There are a few different types of braces available for correcting overlapping teeth:

How long does it take to fix overlapping teeth?

The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the overlap and other factors. However, in most cases, it can take at least one year to fix overlapping teeth, depending on the treatment.

Are overlapping teeth causing you oral issues?

If overlapping teeth cause complications such as tooth or jaw pain, difficulty speaking clearly, or damaging oral habits, it is wise to consider correcting them. Correcting overlapping teeth can help eliminate bad habits like tooth grinding, clenching the teeth, and biting the cheeks.

Another thing to keep in mind is that teeth continue to shift with age. Therefore, if you fix an overlap as a child or teen, you will likely need a retainer to maintain the teeth’s position.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Straightening Smiles at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

Straightening Smiles and Crooked Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Crooked teeth are known in the world of dentistry as “malocclusion.” Malocclusion can impact the aesthetics of your smile and may affect your overall oral health and enjoyment.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Orem area, we understand the significance of addressing crooked teeth to ensure our patient’s smiles are healthy, confident, and functional.

Understanding Crooked Teeth

Crooked teeth can result from various factors, including genetics, inadequate jaw space, early childhood habits (such as thumb-sucking or pacifier use), or trauma to the mouth. Regardless of the cause, crooked teeth can lead to several oral health issues including:

Difficulty Cleaning: Misaligned teeth can create tight spaces and crevices that are challenging to clean effectively, increasing the risk of plaque buildup, cavities, and gum disease. Even floss can be hard to get between crooked teeth, and sometimes this can cause pain that reduces motivation to floss.

Uneven Wear: Crooked teeth may experience uneven wear due to improper biting and chewing patterns, leading to premature wear and tear on tooth enamel and potential jaw joint problems.

Impaired Function: Malocclusion can affect bite alignment, causing difficulties with biting, chewing, and speaking properly. This can lead to discomfort, TMJ disorders, and even digestive issues.

Treatment Options for Crooked Teeth

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we can help you assess your options for a range of treatments to address crooked teeth and achieve straighter, healthier smiles.

For example:

Orthodontic Treatment: Traditional braces or clear aligner therapy can gradually shift misaligned teeth into proper alignment, correcting bite issues and improving overall oral health and aesthetics.

Dental Appliances: In some cases, dental appliances such as retainers or space maintainers may be used to guide teeth into proper alignment, particularly in children whose jaws are still developing.

Cosmetic Dentistry: For mild cases of crooked teeth, cosmetic dental treatments such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be recommended to enhance the appearance of your smile and create the illusion of straighter teeth.

Regardless of which one is best for you, we can help you with a starting assessment and recommendations.

Benefits of Straightening Crooked Teeth

Straightening crooked teeth offers numerous benefits beyond aesthetics, including:

Improved Oral Health: Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, reducing the risk of decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

Enhanced Functionality: Straight teeth promote proper bite alignment, improving chewing efficiency, speech clarity, and overall oral function.

Boosted Confidence: A straight, attractive smile can enhance self-esteem and confidence, positively impacting personal and professional relationships.

Crooked teeth can impact oral health, function, and self-confidence, but with modern dental treatments and techniques, achieving a straighter smile is more accessible than ever.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Orem area, our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and personalized treatment plans to address crooked teeth and help our patients achieve the healthy, beautiful smiles they deserve.

If you or a loved one are concerned about crooked teeth, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to explore your treatment options and take the first step toward a straighter, healthier smile.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry Provides Compassionate Dental Care

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry

take out silver fillings American Fork

Hello, and welcome to our dental blog. My name is Dr. Chris Hammond and I want to tell you about Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

Meet Our Compassionate Team of Dental Professionals

The first thing to know is that we work hard to keep our patients comfortable. Our team is compassionate and empathetic. For some individuals, the condition of their teeth is a sensitive subject.

We get it. If you have dental problems–whether it’s decay, gum disease, or discolored teeth–we want to treat these ailments and get you back on track when it comes to a healthy smile.

Relieving Dental Anxiety is Our Specialty

As mentioned, we understand that some men and women are sensitive about the condition of their teeth so they are reluctant to seek care. Other men and women are hesitant to seek care because dental treatment is downright terrifying for them.

If you fear dental treatment, give us a try. We have helped hundreds of apprehensive men and women get through their service successfully. Let’s talk about oral conscious sedation options.

We Honor Your Trust

We know you have many choices in Provo-area dental practices. If you place your trust in us, we will do all we can to honor that trust. This includes making your wait time as short as possible and your visit as pleasant as possible. In addition, we will work with you to schedule appointments at your convenience. Furthermore, we believe our skills and experience will ensure successful outcomes.

We Are a Full-Service General and Cosmetic Dental Practice

We provide general and cosmetic dentistry to patients in our Provo office. We serve the greater Orem area including Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi. Even if you live a bit further away, we promise you that it’s worth the trip.

Our most popular services are:

sedation dentistry
Invisalign
mini implants
dental crowns
porcelain veneers

Interested in Upgrading Your Smile?

Along with healthy teeth, many of our Utah County and American Fork patients want to know more about popular cosmetic dentistry procedures. These include teeth whitening, veneers, dental implants, gum contouring, and more!

A combination of cosmetic dental treatments can remedy every problem to achieve your beautiful smile!

If you live in the Orem area and would like to see what Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry has to offer, give us a call at 801-374-0070. We are currently accepting new dental patients!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

What is Dental Sleep Medicine?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, sleep apnea

dental sleep medicine Provo

What is dental sleep medicine?  It’s a relatively new branch of dentistry that treats sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing problems.

Don’t confuse dental sleep medicine with dental sedation or sleep dentistry. Dental sleep medicine treats sleep apnea. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we can determine if it’s right for you.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition where you have frequent, intermittent pauses in breathing while sleeping. These pauses can last for up to 60 seconds. They are caused by soft tissue in the back of the throat that relaxes and closes the airway. When the brain is not getting enough oxygen it interferes with important physical processes.

There are three different types of sleep apnea. They are categorized by the cause of the cessation of breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where your throat muscles relax. Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to control your breathing. The final type is called complex sleep apnea syndrome. This form is present when a patient has both of the other two types.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea must be diagnosed by a medical doctor. If you have several of the following symptoms, we encourage you to see a doctor who specializes in sleep disorders.

  • Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
  • Insomnia
  • Sleep Deprivation
  • Excessive Snoring
  • Episodes of Not Breathing
  • Mouth Breathing
  • Dry Mouth/Throat
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent Headaches
  • Irritability

How does a sleep apnea dentist treat sleep apnea?

Dentists use oral appliance therapy to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Patients wear a custom-fitted removable oral appliance at night. The appliance fits somewhat like a sports mouthguard.

How does an oral appliance work?

An oral appliance restricts your airway from collapsing. It either holds the tongue or jaw in a forward position.

Does an oral appliance work as well as a CPAP machine?

It depends on the severity of the condition and other considerations specific to the patient. Many patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea benefit from OAT.

What are the advantages of OAT over CPAP?

Some men and women find the device more comfortable. It’s smaller and easier to clean than a CPAP system. Patients who suffer from claustrophobia often choose OAT. Patients who move around a lot when they sleep can get twisted up in the CPAP tube. And a small, portable device is easier to travel with.

If you have been diagnosed with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea and are interested in OAT, give us a call at the number below.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Not Your Mother’s Jewelry: 5 Reasons Tongue Piercings Are Dangerous

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, General Dentistry

lip piercings Provo

Let’s get right to it; while tongue, cheek, and lip piercings are “so in” right now, here are five reasons from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo to keep piercings where they belong—in your ears:

  1. Excessive drooling—YIKES!
  2. Chipped teeth
  3. Infection
  4. Hypersensitivity to metal
  5. Nerve damage

Drooling

Lip and tongue piercings may make you look cool and edgy. They may express your personality and creativity. But they can cause frequent drooling. That may not be the look you’re going for.

Broken Teeth

Another vital reason to keep piercings away from your mouth, lips, and tongue, is because having any metal in your mouth can chip your teeth. This can happen while eating, drinking, or sleeping. Or even while playing with said piercing.

Do you already have a tooth that’s compromised? Repair these cracks early before more damage ensues.

Small chips in a tooth can be filled, or crowned. But often patients with piercings come in with more serious dilemmas. These may require a root canal or tooth extraction.

Infection

Beware of infection. When it comes to oral piercings, you have to watch the pierced area. Your mouth is a bacterial zoo, so to speak. Upon piercing anything in your mouth, the bacteria can enter your bloodstream. Neglecting appropriate brushing habits can lead to infection. As well as touching the piercing with dirty hands.

Hypersensitivity or Allergic Reaction to Metal

Many people love body jewelry. But too much of a good thing (like metal) can be bad. Having metal piercings can lead to hypersensitivity to any metal in your mouth, such as silverware. This is problematic for most men and women. (Stock up on plastic utensils!)

There is also the risk of an allergic reaction at the piercing site. If you know of a sensitivity to certain metals, you can get your piercing in a metal you aren’t allergic to. But you are still in jeopardy of the other risks discussed here.

Nerve Damage

Finally, there’s the risk of irreversible nerve damage. If the previous dangers don’t turn you off, this one should. Experiencing a numb tongue is usually temporary. But in extreme cases, like if you can’t stop playing with the piercing, it can become permanent.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit Your Provo Dentist

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit Your Local Friendly Dentist

In the hustle and bustle of life, amidst our myriad commitments and responsibilities, it’s easy to overlook the importance of dental health. However, there’s no better time than now to prioritize your oral well-being by visiting Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your local friendly dentist.

Here’s why:

1. New Year, New Smile: As we usher in a new year, it’s an opportune moment to commit to better habits and self-care practices. What better way to start afresh than by scheduling a dental check-up at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry? A visit here sets the tone for a year filled with healthy habits and a radiant smile.

2. Preventive Care Saves Money: Regular dental check-ups can help detect oral health issues early, preventing them from escalating into more costly and invasive procedures down the line. By investing in preventive care now at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you’re not only safeguarding your oral health but also saving yourself from potential financial burdens in the future.

3. Advanced Technology for Enhanced Care: Dentistry has evolved significantly in recent years, with advancements in technology revolutionizing the patient experience. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer a range of cutting-edge solutions to ensure your comfort and satisfaction during procedures, from digital X-rays to painless laser treatments.

4. Personalized Treatment Plans: Our team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry isn’t just a healthcare provider; we’re your partners in achieving optimal oral health. We’ll work with you to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs and goals, whether you’re seeking routine cleanings, cosmetic enhancements, or restorative procedures.

5. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry has implemented stringent safety protocols to protect patients and staff. From rigorous sanitization procedures to enhanced ventilation systems, rest assured that your visit to us is not only beneficial for your oral health but also conducted in a safe and hygienic environment.

6. Boost Your Confidence: A healthy, beautiful smile can do wonders for your confidence and self-esteem. By addressing any dental concerns or imperfections at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you’ll not only enhance your oral health but also boost your overall sense of well-being and self-assurance.

7. Setting a Positive Example: Visiting Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry sets a positive example for your family and friends, encouraging them to prioritize their dental health. By leading by example, you’re promoting a culture of proactive self-care within your community.

There’s no time like the present to prioritize your oral health by visiting Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your local friendly dentist.

Whether it’s for preventive care, addressing concerns, or simply maintaining a healthy smile, we’re here to support you on your journey to optimal oral health and overall well-being. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier smile with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Teaching Children to Floss in the Provo, Utah Area

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth cleaning

Teaching Children to Floss in the Provo, Utah area with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

In the vibrant area of Provo, Utah, parents often seek ways to instill good dental habits in their children from a young age.

One crucial aspect of oral hygiene that can sometimes be overlooked is flossing.

While brushing is widely understood, teaching children to floss effectively is equally important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand the significance of early dental education. Here’s why and how we encourage parents to teach their children to floss…

Why Teach Children to Floss:

Prevention of Decay: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line, preventing the formation of cavities and decay. By teaching children to floss regularly, parents can help them maintain healthy smiles for years to come.

Gum Health: Flossing isn’t just about keeping teeth clean; it’s also essential for gum health. Regular flossing helps prevent gum disease by removing bacteria and debris that can lead to inflammation and infection.

Establishing Lifelong Habits: Teaching children to floss at a young age establishes good oral hygiene habits that they can carry into adulthood. By starting early, parents set their children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles and fewer dental problems.

How to Teach Children to Floss:

Lead by Example: Children often learn best by watching and imitating their parents. Parents can demonstrate proper flossing techniques and make it a part of their daily oral hygiene routine.

Make it Fun: Flossing doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be made into a fun and interactive activity. Parents can use colorful flossers or flavored floss to make the experience more enjoyable for children.

Supervise and Assist: Until children develop the dexterity to floss independently, parents should supervise and assist them with flossing. This ensures that they use the correct technique and effectively reach all areas of their mouths.

Offer Positive Reinforcement: Praise and encourage children for their efforts in flossing. Positive reinforcement reinforces good behavior and motivates children to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits.

Be Patient and Persistent: Like any skill, learning to floss takes time and practice. Parents should be patient with their children and emphasize the importance of flossing as part of their daily routine.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in the power of early dental education and the importance of teaching children to floss. Our team is dedicated to providing parents in the Provo, Utah area with the guidance and support they need to instill good oral hygiene habits in their children from a young age.

By teaching children to floss effectively, parents can help them achieve and maintain sparkling smiles for life.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

385-375-3715

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Denture Wearers Can Preserve Their Jaw Bone and Facial Shape

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health, Dentures

invisible braces for adults Provo

More than 36 million Americans don’t have any teeth. And 120 million are missing at least one tooth. (American College of Prosthodontists) 90% of men and women without teeth wear dentures. Are you one of them? If so, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help!

Dentures aren’t the ideal tooth replacement

How are your dentures working for you? Do they slip around in your mouth? Are they uncomfortable? If so, it may be time for a reline. Dentures need to be relined occasionally so they fit right. The reason for this is because of bone loss and gum shrinkage. Think about that for a minute. Bone loss?!! Gum shrinkage?!!

Let’s discuss it.

What causes bone loss?

To remain strong and vital, your jawbone needs to be consistently stimulated by the pressure of chewing, biting, and talking. Each tooth has a root structure that extends into the surrounding bone material. As each tooth absorbs the forces of everyday mouth function, it stimulates blood flow in the bone surrounding the root.

In other words, your jaw bone has an important job to do but can diminish if it’s no longer needed.

Look at this for a minute. When tooth roots are gone, your jawbone starts shrinking. And what happens when the underlying structure shrinks? The outer structure changes as well. Eventually, the shape of your face will change.

Bone loss isn’t unavoidable

Before you resign yourself to a shrinking jawbone and eventual hollowed-out cheeks, consider a better option. We’re talking about implant-secured dentures.

What are implant-secured dentures?

A dental implant is a replacement for a tooth that includes the tooth root and the visible part of the tooth. A single implant would have an abutment (connector piece) with a crown affixed. With implant-anchored dentures, the denture composes the visible part of multiple teeth connected to a smaller number of implants. In other words, instead of 1 post + 1 crown for each tooth, you may have all-in-4 which means one complete arch anchored to 4 posts.

Dentures secured by implants are held in place with permanent metal screws or posts–the root replacement part of the implant.

Tooth implants can be used in many different ways. For example, an implant can replace one missing tooth. Or, an implant attached to a dental bridge can replace two or three missing teeth.

In this article, however, we will first describe how implants can serve as a stable base for securing a denture to either the upper or lower arch.

How are the implants inserted?

The dental implant procedure works like this: first, the posts are surgically inserted into the jaw bone. Though “oral surgery” might sound extensive, implant placement is an outpatient procedure at your dentist’s office. For most patients, it doesn’t take much longer than filling a cavity. As with other procedures, your dentist will employ a numbing agent so you will feel limited pain.

Osseointegration

The next part of the process is critical, although the patient doesn’t have to do anything except practice good oral hygiene. In the months after implant surgery, the post meshes with the jaw bone. This biological process is called osseointegration. Your jawbone integrates to the post as if it were a natural tooth root.

Custom dentures anchored to the implants

Once the implant has securely meshed with the jaw bone, the tooth implant recipient receives a final fitment for their new implant-secured dentures. Just as with any restoration at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, implant-anchored dentures are custom-fit and designed to blend perfectly with remaining teeth. If you don’t have any natural teeth, you will choose the appropriate color with the guidance of Dr. Hammond.

Am I a well-suited candidate for implant dentures?

When considering whether to get implant-secured dentures, traditional dentures, or some other restoration option, the number of missing teeth affects your specific treatment. If you have suffered excessive tooth loss but still have healthy, bone then implant dentures might work for you.

Implant-anchored dentures can change your life

Modern dental implant procedures, cutting-edge materials, and the competence of dentists such as Dr. Chris Hammond, combine to create truly sensational smiles.

Call us today for a dental implant consultation and learn what’s possible for your smile.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

385-375-3715

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604