Taking Charge of Your Oral Health in 2026

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The calendar has flipped, the holiday decorations are packed away, and 2026 is officially here. While many people are busy setting resolutions about gym memberships or reading lists, there is one area that often gets overlooked but deserves just as much attention: your smile. Your oral health is a critical part of your overall well-being, and there is no better time than the start of a new year to hit the reset button on your dental habits.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we believe that a healthy smile is the foundation for a confident life. Dr. Chris Hammond and our entire team have been proudly serving our neighbors in Provo, Orem, and Utah County since 1996. For three decades, we have helped patients understand the incredible value of long-term oral health. This year, we want to help you get started on the right path.

Why the New Year is the Perfect Starting Line

The new year offers a fresh start, making it the perfect time to prioritize oral health, set goals, and establish habits for a brighter, healthier smile

It’s easy to let dental appointments slide during the busy holiday season. Between travel, parties, and endless to-do lists, scheduling a cleaning isn’t always a priority. However, January offers a clean slate.

Many dental insurance plans reset their benefits on January 1st. This means you have a fresh pool of resources to cover essential preventative care like exams and cleanings. Utilizing these benefits early in the year prevents a mad rush in December and ensures that any small issues are caught before they become expensive problems. Prioritizing your teeth now sets a positive tone for the rest of 2026.

Habits for a Healthier Smile

Taking charge of your oral health doesn’t require a massive lifestyle overhaul. Small, consistent changes often yield the best results. Here are a few actionable habits to adopt this year:

  • Upgrade Your Tool Kit: If you are still using a manual toothbrush, consider switching to an electric one. They are generally more effective at removing plaque. Also, don’t forget to replace your brush head every three to four months.
  • Commit to Flossing: It’s the step everyone skips, but it’s crucial. Flossing once a day removes debris that your toothbrush simply cannot reach. If traditional floss is difficult for you, try water flossers or interdental picks.
  • Hydrate with Water: Sugary drinks and sodas are major culprits for cavities. Swapping just one sugary drink a day for water can significantly lower your risk of tooth decay and help wash away food particles.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Care

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide a wide range of general dentistry services designed to keep your smile bright. Whether you need a routine professional cleaning, a thorough exam, or more advanced restorative work, we have the experience to handle it.

We focus on education because we want our patients to feel empowered. We don’t just fix teeth; we help you understand how to maintain them for a lifetime. A long-lasting smile isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function and health.

Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

You don’t have to navigate your dental health journey alone. Let this be the year you stop putting off those appointments and start investing in yourself. Whether you are a new patient or have been with us since the 90s, we are here to support your goals.

Schedule your first appointment of 2026 today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.

 

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 the New Year Calls for a New Smile in Provo

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

The calendar turns, the confetti falls, and suddenly we are staring at a fresh slate. January feels different. It brings a sense of renewal and a natural urge to improve ourselves. While many people scribble down resolutions about hitting the gym or saving money, there is one transformation that often gets overlooked but offers a profound impact: your smile.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we believe the new year is the perfect moment to prioritize yourself. Led by Dr. Chris Hammond, our team has been helping neighbors in Provo, Orem, and Utah County achieve their dream smiles since 1996. If you have ever hesitated to laugh freely or hidden your teeth in photos, 2026 is your year to change that.

A Fresh Start for Your Confidence

Cosmetic dentistry enhances your smile, correcting imperfections, brightening teeth, and aligning bites, ultimately transforming your confidence by empowering self-assurance and leaving lasting positive impressions on others

New Year’s resolutions often revolve around confidence. We want to feel better, look better, and present our best selves to the world. Few things boost confidence quite like a radiant smile. When you are proud of your teeth, you smile more often. You engage more openly in conversations. You project a warmth and assurance that people notice immediately.

Starting cosmetic dental work in January sets a positive tone for the rest of the year. Instead of waiting for a “someday” that never comes, you take immediate action toward a version of yourself that feels more authentic and uninhibited.

Maximizing Your Year with a New Look

Timing matters. Many cosmetic procedures can be completed relatively quickly, meaning you could be sporting a dazzling new look by spring. Imagine attending summer weddings, graduations, or family reunions with a completely revitalized smile.

Furthermore, the winter months are often a quieter social season for many people. It’s an excellent time to undergo treatments and heal (if necessary) before the busy social calendar of spring and summer kicks in. By tackling these changes now, you ensure you are ready to shine when the sun comes out.

More Than Just Aesthetics

Cosmetic dentistry isn’t just about vanity; it’s about harmony and function. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we care deeply about helping you design a smile that expresses who you truly are. A chipped tooth, a gap that bothers you, or discoloration can sometimes feel like a distraction from your personality.

Our services go beyond surface-level fixes. We offer a wide variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures, each focused on addressing specific imperfections:

  • Teeth Whitening: A simple, non-invasive way to take years off your appearance.
  • Porcelain Veneers: Perfect for correcting chips, cracks, or severe discoloration with a durable, natural-looking finish.
  • Dental Bonding: A quick solution for minor repairs that makes a major difference.
  • Invisalign®: Straighten your teeth discreetly without the metal wires.

Dr. Hammond and our compassionate team understand that every face is unique. We don’t do “cookie-cutter” smiles. We look at your facial structure and listen to your goals to create a look that feels natural and tailored specifically to you.

Invest in Yourself This Year

We often spend money on gym memberships we don’t use or clothes that go out of style. Investing in your smile provides a lasting return. It is an investment in your daily happiness and self-esteem.

Make this year different. Don’t let another twelve months pass while you hide your smile. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chris Hammond today. Let’s make 2026 the year you finally share your true smile with the world.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Will My New Veneers Look Natural in Provo?

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Porcelain Veneers

A bright, confident smile can change the way you see the world and how the world sees you. If you’re considering enhancing your smile with cosmetic dentistry, you might wonder if the results will look authentic. It’s a common concern: will my new veneers look natural? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we understand that your goal is a smile that looks and feels like your own, only better.

For many patients, the answer lies in porcelain veneers. These thin, custom-made shells are designed to cover the front surface of teeth, transforming their appearance. Gone are the days of bulky, artificial-looking dental work. Today’s advanced materials and techniques allow for results that are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth.

The Art and Science of Natural-Looking Veneers

Creating a natural-looking smile with veneers is both an art and a science. It requires a dentist with a keen eye for detail and extensive experience in cosmetic procedures. Dr. Chris Hammond has been serving the Provo community since 1996, building a reputation for excellence in both general and cosmetic dentistry. His expertise ensures that every veneer case is handled with precision and an artistic touch.

The process begins with a detailed consultation. Dr. Hammond takes the time to understand your unique dental anatomy and aesthetic goals. We consider factors like your facial structure, skin tone, and the shape and color of your surrounding teeth. This comprehensive approach is key to designing veneers that complement your features and blend seamlessly with your smile.

Customization is Key to a Flawless Smile

Veneers are not a one-size-fits-all solution. At our Utah County practice, we use modern tools and high-quality porcelain to customize every aspect of your new smile. The material closely mimics the light-reflecting properties of natural tooth enamel, giving your veneers a lifelike translucency. We can precisely match the shade to your existing teeth for a uniform look or choose a brighter shade for a complete smile makeover.

The shape and size of each veneer are also meticulously planned. Whether you want to correct chips, close gaps, or alter the length of your teeth, each veneer is crafted to create a balanced and harmonious appearance. This level of personalization ensures your new smile looks like it has always been yours.

The “Smile Design” Technique

Dr. Hammond utilizes a specialized veneering technique called “smile design.” This proven method focuses on restoring teeth to 100% of their natural strength and beauty. Through this process, porcelain veneers not only improve smiles but also instill a renewed sense of self-confidence in patients. Best of all, this incredible transformation can often be completed in as few as two visits.

If you are ready to explore how porcelain veneers can give you a durable, beautiful, and natural-looking smile, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Let Dr. Hammond and our dedicated team in Provo, UT, help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Is It Too Late for Braces? Why Invisalign is Changing the Game for Adults

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Many adults look in the mirror and wish for a straighter smile. Perhaps you had braces as a teen and forgot your retainer, or maybe you never had the opportunity to fix your alignment. The thought of traditional metal brackets and wires often stops people in their tracks. You have a career, a social life, and a professional image to maintain. Metal braces just don’t seem to fit that picture.

Fortunately, orthodontics has evolved significantly. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we see adults every day who are reclaiming their confidence through Invisalign. Led by Dr. Chris Hammond, our team helps patients from Provo, American Fork, and Lehi discover that it is never too late to get the smile you deserve.

The Versatility of Modern Orthodontics

The old idea that straightening teeth is only for teenagers is fading fast. Adult orthodontics is one of the fastest-growing areas in dental care. This shift is largely driven by clear aligner therapy, specifically Invisalign.

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gently shift your teeth into place. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets to irritate your cheeks or wires that need tightening. The versatility of this system allows Dr. Hammond to treat a wide range of alignment issues, from simple crowding to complex bite problems, all without drawing attention to your dental work.

Discreet Correction at Any Age

One of the biggest hurdles for adults considering orthodontics is the aesthetic factor. You want people to focus on what you’re saying in a meeting, not on your dental hardware.

Invisalign solves this problem beautifully. The aligners are virtually invisible. Most people won’t even notice you are wearing them unless you point it out. This “invisible” nature makes it easier for you to discreetly fix your smile at any age. Whether you are 25 or 65, you can undergo treatment without feeling self-conscious.

How Invisalign Fits Your Lifestyle

Traditional braces come with a list of restrictions. You can’t eat popcorn, sticky candy, or hard foods. Flossing becomes a ten-minute chore involving threaders and patience.

Invisalign Clear Braces fit your lifestyle because they remove these barriers:

  • Eat What You Love: The aligners are removable. When it’s time for dinner, you simply take them out. You can enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
  • Easy Hygiene: Brushing and flossing remain simple. You remove the aligners, clean your teeth as you normally would, and pop them back in. This leads to better overall gum health during treatment compared to traditional braces.
  • Fewer Visits: Because there are no wires to tighten, your check-ups with Dr. Hammond are often quicker and less frequent than traditional orthodontic appointments. This is perfect for busy professionals and parents in Utah County.

Benefits of Clear Aligner Therapy

Beyond the cosmetic advantages, straightening your teeth has real health benefits. Crowded or crooked teeth are harder to clean, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Misaligned bites can cause jaw pain and uneven wear on your enamel. By choosing clear aligner therapy, you aren’t just improving your looks; you are investing in the long-term health of your mouth.

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

You don’t have to live with a smile you hide. If you are in Provo, American Fork, or Lehi, Dr. Chris Hammond and the team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry are ready to help. We can evaluate your specific needs and show you exactly how Invisalign can work for you.

Schedule your consultation today 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

Laser Dentistry: A New Era of Comfortable Dental Care in Provo

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Categories: Beautiful smile, laser dentistry

The thought of a dental visit can cause anxiety for many. The sounds, the sensations, and the potential for discomfort are common concerns. However, dental technology has advanced significantly, and procedures are becoming more comfortable and less invasive than ever before. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are proud to offer state-of-the-art laser dentistry to patients in Provo, American Fork, and Lehi, transforming the dental experience.

Leading our practice is Dr. Chris Hammond, a dentist committed to excellence and patient comfort. His dedication has been recognized by his peers and the independent research firm Woodward/White, who recently nominated him as one of “The Best Dentists in America.” This honor reflects his commitment to incorporating advanced technologies like dental lasers to provide superior care.

What Makes Laser Dentistry Different?

Laser dentistry uses focused beams of light to perform a variety of dental procedures with remarkable precision. Unlike traditional tools, lasers can treat targeted areas without affecting surrounding tissues. This precision results in a much more comfortable experience for the patient. For many procedures, the need for anesthesia is reduced or even eliminated.

The benefits extend beyond the dental chair. Because laser treatments are so gentle, they minimize bleeding, swelling, and post-operative discomfort. This means you can return to your daily activities faster, with a significantly shorter recovery period compared to conventional methods.

Enhancing Your Smile with a Gum Lift

One of the most exciting applications of laser technology is in cosmetic dentistry. If you feel your smile is overshadowed by excessive gum tissue, a procedure we sometimes call a “gum lift” can make a dramatic difference. Dr. Hammond uses a specialized dental laser to skillfully remove excess gum tissue and reshape the gum line.

This process reveals more of your natural teeth, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing smile. What once required an invasive surgical procedure can now be completed in a single, comfortable appointment. The laser seals the tissue as it works, promoting quick, clean healing. You can walk out of our office with a brand-new, confident smile.

Your Comfort is Our Priority

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are dedicated to changing how you feel about dental care. By integrating advanced solutions like laser dentistry, we provide effective treatments that prioritize your comfort and well-being. Whether you need a routine procedure or wish to enhance your smile, our team is here to offer a positive and stress-free experience.

Discover the difference that modern, compassionate dentistry can make. Contact our Provo office today to learn more about how laser dentistry can help you achieve a healthier, more beautiful smile with minimal discomfort.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Chipped Tooth Solutions: Bonding vs. Veneers in Provo

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Categories: Porcelain Veneers

A chipped tooth can be a source of frustration, affecting your smile and your confidence. Fortunately, modern cosmetic dentistry offers excellent solutions to restore your tooth’s appearance. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, our talented cosmetic dentist, Dr. Chris Hammond, and his team are dedicated to helping patients from across the area, including American Fork and Lehi, find the perfect fix for their smile. Two of the most popular treatments for a chipped tooth are dental bonding and porcelain veneers. Let’s explore the differences to help you understand your options.

Dental Bonding Details

Dental bonding is a conservative and effective procedure for repairing minor chips, gaps, or imperfections. The process involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin directly to the affected area. Dr. Hammond skillfully sculpts and shapes this material to match your natural tooth, then hardens it with a special light. The entire procedure is typically completed in a single, convenient visit and requires minimal preparation of your natural tooth.

The Facts About Porcelain Veneers?

Porcelain veneers are thin, custom-crafted shells of high-quality dental porcelain designed to cover the front surface of a tooth. They are a versatile solution for addressing chips as well as concerns like discoloration, shape, or minor alignment issues. Creating veneers usually involves two visits. During the first, your tooth is lightly prepared, and an impression is taken. This impression is sent to a lab where your permanent veneer is made. You’ll return for a second visit to have the final veneer securely bonded to your tooth.

Comparing Your Options: Bonding and Veneers

When deciding between bonding and veneers, it’s helpful to compare them across a few key areas. Porcelain veneers generally offer superior durability and longevity, often lasting 10-15 years or more with proper care, while bonding may last 3-7 years before needing a touch-up. Aesthetically, porcelain has a translucency that mimics natural tooth enamel and is highly resistant to staining, whereas bonding material can discolor over time.

Bonding is a less invasive procedure, preserving more of your natural tooth structure. Veneers require the removal of a small amount of enamel to ensure a seamless fit. In terms of time and cost, bonding is the quicker and more affordable option, completed in one appointment. Veneers are a greater investment of both time and money but provide a more comprehensive and lasting transformation. If a bonded tooth chips again, it can be easily repaired, but a damaged veneer typically needs to be replaced.

The Pros and Cons

For dental bonding, the main advantages are its affordability, speed (one visit), and conservative nature. It’s an excellent choice for small, simple chips. The primary downsides are its shorter lifespan and susceptibility to staining compared to porcelain.

For porcelain veneers, the key benefits are their incredible durability, lifelike appearance, and stain resistance. They are ideal for correcting a chip while also enhancing the tooth’s overall color and shape. The disadvantages include the higher cost, the two-visit process, and the need to remove a thin layer of tooth enamel, making it an irreversible procedure.

Which Procedure is Right for You?

The best choice depends on your specific needs and goals. If you have a minor chip and are looking for a quick, budget-friendly fix, dental bonding may be the perfect solution. However, if you’re concerned about a larger chip, have staining, or want to make more significant cosmetic improvements to your smile that will last for years, a porcelain veneer is often the superior choice.

The only way to know for sure is to get an expert opinion. If you live in Provo, American Fork, Lehi, or the surrounding communities, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Dr. Chris Hammond will personally evaluate your tooth, discuss your goals, and recommend the ideal treatment to restore your beautiful, confident 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

Myth vs. Fact: Can Teeth Whitening Damage Your Enamel?

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Teeth Whitening

A brighter, whiter smile is something many people desire, but concerns about the safety of teeth whitening often hold them back. One of the most common fears is that whitening treatments will permanently damage tooth enamel. It’s time to separate fact from fiction and address this widespread concern.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we hear these questions often. Let’s explore the science behind professional teeth whitening and clear up some persistent myths.

The Science of Safe Whitening

To understand if teeth whitening is safe, it’s important to know how it works. Your teeth are made of two primary layers: the outer, protective enamel and the inner, yellowish dentin. Stains accumulate in both layers over time.

Professional whitening agents use active ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These substances create a safe chemical reaction that breaks down the discolored molecules within your tooth structure without altering or damaging the enamel itself. Think of it as deep cleaning your teeth from the inside out, lifting stains to reveal their natural, lighter shade.

Myth: All Whitening Treatments Damage Enamel

This is one of the most persistent teeth whitening myths. The truth is, when performed correctly under professional supervision, teeth whitening is a very safe procedure. The key difference between safe and potentially harmful whitening lies in the method, materials, and guidance.

Dr. Chris Hammond and our team use products accepted by the American Dental Association (ADA), ensuring they meet strict standards for safety and effectiveness. We control the concentration of the whitening agent and the duration of the treatment to deliver brilliant results without compromising your enamel’s health. Temporary sensitivity can occur, but this is different from enamel damage. Sensitivity is a temporary inflammation of the tooth’s nerve, which typically resolves quickly, while enamel damage is structural and permanent.

Professional Teeth Whitening Facts vs. Over-the-Counter Risks

While many over-the-counter (OTC) products are available, they lack the customization and professional oversight that protect your teeth. Ill-fitting trays can cause the whitening gel to leak onto your gums, leading to irritation. Moreover, overuse of these products in an attempt to get faster results can lead to prolonged sensitivity and other issues.

Professional whitening ensures your smile is not only brighter but also stays healthy. Here’s how we protect your enamel:

  • Initial Examination: We always start with a dental exam to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy enough for whitening.
  • Custom-Fit Trays: For take-home kits, we create trays molded specifically to your teeth, ensuring even application and protecting your gums.
  • Controlled Application: In-office treatments like laser whitening allow for precise, powerful, and fast results under constant supervision.
  • Professional Guidance: We recommend the right concentration and treatment duration for your specific needs, along with post-care instructions to maintain your results and comfort.

Achieve a Whiter Smile Safely

So, is teeth whitening safe? Yes, when it’s done professionally. With expert care, you can achieve the dazzling smile you’ve always wanted without worrying about harming your enamel.

If you are in Provo, American Fork, or Lehi and ready to learn more about safe, effective whitening options, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Chris Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to discover the best path to your brightest 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

Your Guide to Gum Disease Prevention and Treatment in Provo

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Categories: Dental Health, Gum Disease Treatment, Proactive Dental Care

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Yet, many people overlook the early signs of gum disease, a common condition that can lead to serious oral health problems. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, Dr. Chris Hammond and our dedicated team are committed to helping patients in Provo, American Fork, and Lehi, UT, understand, prevent, and treat gum-related issues.

What Causes Gum Issues?

Gum disease, or periodontal disease, often begins with plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed through daily brushing and flossing, this plaque can harden into tartar. Tartar buildup along the gumline irritates the gums, causing inflammation known as gingivitis.

Several factors can increase your risk of developing gum problems, including:

  • Inconsistent oral hygiene
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • Hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy)
  • Certain medications
  • Genetics and family history

Early Indicators: What to Watch Out For

Gingivitis is the earliest stage of gum disease, and its symptoms are often mild. Being aware of these early indicators is crucial for catching the problem before it progresses. Look for:

  • Red, Swollen, or Tender Gums: Healthy gums should be firm and pale pink.
  • Bleeding Gums: You might notice blood when you brush or floss. This is never normal.
  • Persistent Bad Breath: Ongoing bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth can be a sign of infection.

Ignoring these symptoms can allow gingivitis to advance to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can damage the bone and tissues supporting your teeth.

Is Gum Disease Reversible?

The good news is that gingivitis is completely reversible with professional treatment and diligent home care. By improving your brushing and flossing routine and scheduling regular cleanings, you can often restore your gums to full health.

However, once the disease progresses to periodontitis, the damage is not reversible. While the condition can be managed to prevent further harm, the focus shifts from reversal to control. This is why early detection and intervention are so important.

Periodontal Treatment in Provo, UT

If you notice any signs of gum disease, it’s essential to seek professional care. Dr. Chris Hammond provides expert periodontal treatment tailored to your specific needs. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our approach begins with a thorough examination to assess the health of your gums.

For early-stage issues, a professional cleaning may be all that is needed. For more advanced cases, we offer treatments like scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning procedure) to remove tartar below the gumline and help your gums heal.

Don’t wait for minor symptoms to become major problems. Protect your smile by prioritizing your gum health. If you’re concerned about your gums or need a check-up, schedule an appointment with us today.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Does Your Toothache Signify a Serious Dental Problem?

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, Tooth Pain

That nagging throb in your jaw, the sharp pain when you sip a cold drink, or the dull, persistent ache in a tooth—it’s easy to dismiss tooth pain as a minor annoyance. Many people hope it will simply go away on its own. While some minor sensitivity is temporary, a consistent toothache is your body’s way of signaling that something is wrong. Ignoring it can lead to more complex and costly problems down the road.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we understand that tooth pain can be alarming. The key is to address it promptly to determine the cause and prevent further complications.

What Could Your Toothache Mean?

A toothache can stem from various issues, ranging from simple to serious. Some common causes include:

  • Cavities: The most frequent culprit, cavities are holes in your teeth caused by decay. If left untreated, they can deepen, reaching the sensitive inner pulp and causing significant pain.
  • Gum Disease: Gingivitis or more advanced periodontitis can cause gums to become inflamed and pull away from the teeth, exposing sensitive roots and leading to discomfort.
  • Dental Abscess: This is a serious infection at the root of a tooth or between the gum and a tooth. An abscess is a pocket of pus that can cause severe, throbbing pain and requires immediate dental attention.
  • Cracked Tooth: A fracture in a tooth, sometimes invisible to the naked eye, can expose the nerve and cause sharp pain, especially when chewing.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Clenching or grinding your teeth, often during sleep, can wear down enamel and lead to jaw pain and tooth sensitivity.

While you might not be able to diagnose the issue yourself, the message is clear: persistent tooth pain is not normal and should be evaluated by a professional.

The Importance of Regular Checkups

The best way to handle a toothache is to prevent one from ever starting. This is where regular dental checkups play a crucial role. Routine visits with Dr. Chris Hammond allow our team to catch potential problems early, long before they become painful emergencies.

Think of it as proactive care for your smile. During a checkup, we perform professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup that you can’t remove at home. We also conduct thorough examinations and use imaging to spot signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues when they are small and easily treatable.

Save Time, Money, and Stress in the Long Run

Visiting your Provo dentist for regular checkups might seem like another appointment to fit into your busy schedule, but it’s an investment that pays off. Treating a small cavity is far quicker, less invasive, and more affordable than performing a root canal or extracting a severely infected tooth. By staying ahead of dental problems, you save yourself from future pain, lengthy procedures, and unexpected expenses.

Don’t wait for a toothache to tell you something is wrong. Take control of your oral health today.

Schedule Your Visit with Dr. Hammond

If you are experiencing tooth pain or are due for a checkup, our team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chris Hammond and ensure your smile stays healthy, strong, and pain-free.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

When Root Canal Treatment Is Your Best Option to Save Your Natural Tooth

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Experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity? You might need a root canal. While this treatment often gets a bad reputation, modern root canal therapy at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo is a highly effective way to save your natural tooth and eliminate pain.

Dr. Chris Hammond and our team have helped countless patients throughout Provo, Orem, and Utah County preserve their natural teeth through expert root canal treatment. Let’s explore when this procedure becomes your best option and how we make it completely comfortable.

Signs You Might Need Root Canal Treatment

Several symptoms indicate that the inner pulp of your tooth is infected or damaged:

Severe, persistent pain when chewing or applying pressure signals that the tooth’s nerve is compromised. This pain often intensifies at night or when lying down.

Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers long after the stimulus is removed suggests nerve damage. Normal sensitivity disappears quickly, but infected nerves create lasting discomfort.

Darkening or discoloration of the tooth indicates the inner pulp is dying or dead. This change in color often appears gradually as the infection progresses.

Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, sometimes accompanied by a small bump or pimple, shows your body is fighting infection.

A cracked or chipped tooth that exposes the inner pulp creates a pathway for bacteria, potentially leading to infection even without immediate pain.

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

Many patients assume extraction is their only option when facing severe tooth problems. However, root canal therapy offers a superior alternative that preserves your natural tooth structure.

During the procedure, Dr. Hammond carefully removes the infected or inflamed pulp from inside your tooth’s root canals. He then cleans and disinfects the inner chambers before filling and sealing the space with biocompatible material.

This process eliminates the infection while maintaining your tooth’s structural integrity. After healing, a crown is typically placed to restore full function and appearance.

Why saving your natural tooth matters:

  • Maintains proper chewing function
  • Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting
  • Preserves jawbone structure
  • Costs less than extraction and replacement options
  • Keeps your natural bite alignment

Comfortable Treatment With Advanced Sedation Options

Dr. Hammond understands that dental anxiety can prevent patients from seeking necessary treatment. That’s why Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry offers multiple sedation options to ensure your complete comfort throughout the root canal procedure.

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) provides relaxation while keeping you conscious and responsive. This mild sedation helps anxious patients feel calm and comfortable.

Oral sedation uses prescription medication taken before your appointment to create deeper relaxation. You’ll remain awake but feel drowsy and unconcerned about the procedure.

IV sedation delivers medication directly into your bloodstream for the deepest level of conscious sedation. This option is ideal for patients with severe dental anxiety.

Expert Care You Can Trust

Dr. Chris Hammond brings years of experience and advanced training to every root canal procedure. Using state-of-the-art technology and proven techniques, he ensures optimal outcomes with minimal discomfort.

Our practice prioritizes patient education and comfort. We’ll explain every step of your treatment and answer all questions, helping you feel confident in your decision to save your natural tooth.

Don’t let tooth pain control your life. Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule your consultation and discover how root canal therapy can eliminate your pain while preserving your natural 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