Beautiful smile

Top 5 Oral Health Practices for Your Family in Provo, Utah

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health, Family Dentistry

old man showing two young kids how to properly brush their teeth

A healthy smile is a valuable asset for every family member.

By prioritizing oral health, you can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems that can impact your overall well-being.

Here are five essential practices from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to incorporate into your family’s routine:

Brush Twice Daily. Make brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time, a non-negotiable habit. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove plaque and bacteria.

Floss Daily. Flossing is equally important for reaching those hard-to-reach areas between teeth where plaque can accumulate. Help your children learn to floss from a young age to make it a lifelong habit.

Limit Sugary Treats. Excessive sugar consumption is a major contributor to tooth decay. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and encourage your family to opt for healthier alternatives like fruits and vegetables.

See Your Dentist Regularly. Schedule regular dental checkups for your entire family. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dentists recommend professional cleanings and examinations every six months for adults and children.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria, promoting a healthier mouth environment.

By following these simple practices, you can help your family maintain healthy smiles and prevent future dental problems.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Beautiful Teeth Without Breaking The Bank

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

affordable teeth whitening Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, our smile redesign patients believe that life-changing cosmetic dentistry is a worthwhile investment. Indeed, for most people, the value of a healthy, desirable smile cannot be measured in dollars. We agree, however, that cosmetic dentistry is not cheap.

Do you have to spend thousands of dollars to enhance your smile? Actually, no. Today’s post focuses on the most affordable cosmetic dental procedures.

Dental Bonding
In many cases, dental bonding can be used to fix a tooth that has been chipped.

When Dr. Chris Hammond repairs a tooth with dental bonding, a pliable resin material is applied to the tooth. Dr. Hammond expertly molds the material to create the desired shape. The resin is then hardened using a special light. After hardening, Dr. Hammond performs any necessary trimming and shaping followed by a final polishing.

Dental bonding is often less costly than porcelain veneers or dental crowns. Call us at 801-374-0070 to discuss cosmetic dental financing options.

Beware of brand-new Orem area practices that advertise very low prices for dental bonding, veneers, or dental implants. The know-how and artistic ability needed to attain minuscule tolerances should not be undertaken by a beginner. Thoroughly research any new cosmetic dentist you are considering for any cosmetic dental procedures or complete cosmetic dental smile makeover.

Tooth Whitening
Most Provo people are aware that there are several different tooth whitening procedures. Chris Hammond recommends scheduling a tooth whitening consultation to discuss your options. Even inexpensive OTC tooth bleaching systems can be misused and lead to tooth sensitivity, damage to tooth enamel, and uneven coloration.

Regarding the cost of teeth whitening: if you elect an at-home system from a drugstore, you may have to buy several packages to achieve even slight whitening. In-office whitening or a take-home system from our office may be more economical in the long run.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Use Flex Account Funds For Dental Care in Provo

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health, General Dentistry

Use Flex Account Funds for Provo Dentistry If you have money in your Provo flexible spending account you may want to schedule some cosmetic dentistry before the deadline. Remember, you lose any funds left over after the plan year ends. Why not improve your smile with tax-free dollars?

Even a small change can make a big difference in the appearance of your teeth. You might consider getting a veneer for a chipped tooth or replacing a broken crown. Maybe you want to straighten your teeth with braces or replace amalgam fillings with ones that blend with your natural teeth. Tooth whitening is quick and easy and benefits even the most attractive smiles.

Perhaps aesthetic dentistry is not your first priority. Maybe you have a more pressing dental need such as a cavity that is bothering you or swollen gums. Don’t let these problems get worse and possibly more expensive to treat.

Call 801-374-0070 to book a consultation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We are located at 3575 N 100 E Ste 200.

Dr. Chris Hammond is one of the most sought-after Provo dentists and stays at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry techniques and technology. A radiant smile is possible for anyone in the Orem area, regardless of issues such as tetracycline stains, periodontal disease, or missing teeth.

If you are planning to use flex account funds for Orem dentistry, make sure you check your employer’s guidelines for eligible cosmetic or restorative dental procedures.

With a smile makeover at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, what will your “after” photo look like?

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Building a Smile You Can Trust With Long-Term Dental Care at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health

Building a Smile You Can Trust With Long-Term Dental Care at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Your smile is a powerful asset. It conveys confidence, and warmth, and plays a vital role in your overall health. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy smile throughout your life. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive, long-term dental care for patients in the Provo, Utah area.

Why Choose Long-Term Dental Care?

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. However, establishing a long-term relationship with a caring dental provider offers several additional benefits:

Personalized Care: As your dental history grows, we can tailor your treatment plan to address your specific needs and concerns.

Early Detection: Regular checkups allow us to identify potential problems early on when they are easier and less expensive to treat.

Preventive Focus: By working with you on good oral hygiene habits, we can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Comfort and Trust: Over time, you’ll develop a sense of trust and comfort with your dentist and hygienist, making dental visits less stressful.

What to Look for in a Long-Term Dental Provider

Finding the right dentist for you is an important decision. Here are some key qualities to consider:

Expertise and Experience: Look for a dentist who has a strong track record and stays up-to-date on the latest dental advancements.

Communication Style: Choose a dentist who listens to your concerns, explains procedures clearly, and answers your questions thoroughly.

Gentle Touch: A dentist who prioritizes your comfort and minimizes any potential discomfort during treatment.

Convenient Location and Hours: Finding a practice that is conveniently located and offers flexible appointment scheduling can make a significant difference in maintaining consistent care.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, We’re Here for Your Smile’s Journey

Our team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is passionate about providing compassionate, personalized dental care for patients of all ages. We offer a wide range of services, from routine cleanings to advanced restorative procedures, to ensure your smile stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.

Ready to Build a Long-Term Dental Care Partnership?

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule an appointment and discuss your oral health goals. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey towards a healthy, happy 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

Solutions for Missing Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Implants

Solutions for Missing Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

A complete smile plays a vital role in our overall well-being.

Missing teeth can impact your appearance and your ability to eat, speak, and chew comfortably.  At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, a leading dental practice in Provo, we understand the challenges associated with missing teeth and offer a variety of personalized solutions to restore your smile and confidence.

The Impact of Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your life.  Some of the consequences to consider include:

  • Aesthetics: Missing teeth can detract from your smile and self-confidence.
  • Oral Function: Chewing and speaking can become difficult, affecting your overall well-being.
  • Jawbone Health: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw, impacting the structure of your face and potentially affecting neighboring teeth.

Dental Solutions for Missing Teeth

Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective options to replace missing teeth and restore a healthy, functional smile.  At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we will work closely with you to understand your needs and recommend the most suitable solution, which may include:

  • Dental Implants: These titanium posts act as artificial tooth roots, surgically placed in the jawbone. Implants provide a strong foundation for a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture, offering excellent long-term functionality and aesthetics.
  • Dental Bridges: Bridges are fixed restorations that anchor to healthy teeth on either side of the gap. They are a strong and stable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth.
  • Dentures: Traditional dentures are removable appliances that replace a full arch of missing teeth. They are a cost-effective option but may require some adjustment to get used to. Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability and comfort.

The Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry Difference

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced team will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health to determine the best course of treatment for replacing missing teeth. We utilize advanced technology and techniques to ensure a comfortable and successful treatment experience.

Taking the First Step Towards a Complete Smile

If you are missing teeth and considering replacement options, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile’s function and beauty.

Let us help you regain your confidence and enjoy the benefits of a complete smile once again.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Keep Teeth Cavity Free With Braces

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Braces, Dental Health

orthodontics invisible braces Provo

Does your youngster in Provo have braces? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide tips to help keep them clean.

It’s more difficult to keep your teeth clean if you wear braces. There are numerous places bits of food can hide. It’s challenging to get toothbrush bristles in all those nooks and crannies.

Food bits turn into bacteria

The brackets and wires on braces create places where harmful bacteria can thrive.

If brace wearers don’t practice consistent, proper oral hygiene, their teeth can become permanently damaged.

The cycle of decay in 5 stages:

  1. The bits of food collect in the tiny spaces in and around the brackets and wires
  2. The bacteria in the food particles multiply
  3. The bacteria create plaque
  4. The plaque erodes the enamel
  5. The plaque destroys enamel and the dentin below and forms a cavity

Bacteria isn’t good for gums, either

Provo orthodontic patients can also have gum disease (gingivitis). Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Periodontitis can bring about bone recession and tooth loss.

Protect teeth with a healthy diet plus proper oral hygiene

Teens with braces should pay extra attention to eating a nutritious diet. This includes limiting snacks between meals. Be aware that highly acidic foods and beverages can damage enamel.

Avoid soda pop and energy drinks

There are few liquids as detrimental as soda and energy drinks, both of which have enamel-eroding acid and sugar.

How to brush with braces

Here are the steps to effective brushing while wearing braces, courtesy of Colgate:

  1. Use fluoride toothpaste
  2. Remove elastics before brushing
  3. Place your brush at a 45 degree angle against the gums
  4. Gently brush with a circular motion along the gumline where the gums and teeth meet
  5. Brush at least 10 seconds on each tooth
  6. Gently brush the brackets
  7. Press the brush firmly so that the bristles spread into the gaps between the wire and the tooth
  8. Brush in and around all of the brackets and be sure to get under the wires (a battery-powered brush may be helpful)
  9. For the chewing surfaces, use a firm back-and-forth motion
  10. Spit out excess toothpaste
  11. Closely inspect your teeth and braces in the mirror to check that they are clean and shiny
  12. Replace the elastics
  13. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash for 1 minute to help prohibit cavities and white spots
  14. Use other oral care products as prescribed by your dental professional

It is also vital to floss while wearing braces. We’ll address that in another post.

If you are new to the Orem area and looking for an experienced pediatric dentist, we invite you to give us a call.

 

1“Protecting Your Healthy Smile while Wearing Braces,” Colgate Professional, http://www.colgateprofessional.com/patient-education/articles/protecting-your-healthy-smile-while-wearing-braces

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Orem area

A bright, white smile projects warmth, and health, and makes a positive first impression. But over time, teeth can lose their natural luster, becoming dull or yellow due to various factors. If you’re looking to recapture the brilliance of your smile, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, a leading dental practice in Provo, Utah, can help. We offer a variety of effective teeth whitening solutions to address discoloration and restore a smile you can be proud of.

Understanding Teeth Discoloration

Several factors contribute to yellowing teeth. The most common culprits include:

Diet: Regular consumption of staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can leave behind pigments on tooth enamel.

Age: As we age, the outer layer of enamel thins, revealing the dentin underneath, which has a naturally yellow hue.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Nicotine and tar from cigarettes and chewing tobacco stain teeth, leading to a yellow or brown discoloration.

Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that discolor teeth.

Tailored Teeth Whitening Solutions at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for teeth whitening.  We offer a personalized consultation to determine the cause of your discoloration and recommend the most suitable cosmetic dental option.

Here are some of the methods we provide:

In-Office Whitening: This professional treatment offers dramatic results in a single appointment. A powerful bleaching agent is applied to the teeth under controlled conditions, lightening discoloration.

Take-Home Whitening: This convenient option allows you to whiten your teeth at your own pace in the comfort of your home. Custom-made whitening trays are filled with a bleaching gel and worn for a specific amount of time each day.

Combination Therapy: We may recommend combining in-office and take-home whitening treatments for stubborn stains for optimal results.

Beyond Whitening: Maintaining a Bright Smile

While teeth whitening can significantly improve the look of your smile, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene to maintain those results. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and limiting staining foods and beverages are all crucial for keeping your smile bright.

We can also recommend at-home whitening products to help you maintain your results between professional treatments.

Ready to Rediscover Your Smile’s Radiance?

If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth and regain a confident smile, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today.  Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and explore the teeth-whitening options we offer. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a smile that shines as brightly as you do.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Are All Clear Aligners in Provo, UT Alike?

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Clear braces, Invisalign Invisible Braces

Invisalign Provo

If you are researching orthodontics, you have probably heard about clear aligners. They offer several advantages over traditional metal braces. The most popular advantage is the fact that they are nearly invisible.

Millions of men and women have aligned their teeth with aligners in the past twenty years since they were developed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we’re here to help with your research. Note that your orthodontist may not offer all types of clear aligners. This post is for informational purposes only.

Invisalign

Invisalign pioneered clear aligner orthodontics. Established in 1997, Invisalign has shaped more than 6 million smiles throughout the world.

Invisalign (as with the other types) uses virtual modeling software to create custom aligners formed specifically for your teeth.

First, you’ll start with a consultation where an orthodontist will examine your teeth. They will work with you to determine which Invisalign treatment plan will work best for your teeth, lifestyle, and dental goals. Then, they will set you up with aligners that are custom-made for you.

It’s vital to note that you will never be left on your own to figure out what step is next. Your orthodontist will be with you every step of the way. Finally, you just live your life, while sticking to the guidelines set out for you by your doctor.

ClearCorrect

This is how the company describes their product: Clear. Simple. Friendly. Made of polyurethane, these aligners can straighten your smile discreetly and effortlessly.

ClearCorrect is run by a team of highly trained professionals. They have added many innovations to the diagnostic and treatment process. Many orthodontists believe it’s the most convenient system for both patients and doctors.

Over 10,000 doctors use ClearCorrect. Many ClearCorrect providers offer flexible payment plans.

SmileDirectClub (And Other At-Home Systems)

Though we don’t prescribe this system, let’s talk about the “mail-order orthodontics” products. We are including an explanation of SmileDirectClub and other at-home systems so you’ll be aware of their potential potential dangers and limitations.

SmileDirectClub provides custom clear aligners without regular office visits. They advertise an average cost savings of 60% of orthodontist-administered Invisalign and similar systems. They report that the average length of treatment is 6 months.

All aligner systems necessitate a 3D image of your teeth. With Invisalign and ClearCorrect, your doctor creates the scan in their office.

With SmileDirect, you can visit one of their “SmileShops” for a scan. There are SmileShops in every U.S. state but you may have to make a long trip. They also offer you the option of taking your own impression using their at-home kit.

Your treatment is supposedly supervised by a dentist or orthodontist—but you don’t visit them in person. Your dentist doesn’t take X-rays or examine your progress.

Because of this, we don’t recommend these types of systems. Your smile is too important to use a DIY approach. Your teeth could end up worse than before! The problems could be costly to correct. In a worst-case setting, you could experience permanent damage.

The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists have published warnings against at-home orthodontics.

Schedule a consultation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to determine which system is best for 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

Overlapping Teeth Can Be Corrected for a Beautiful Smile in Provo

Posted on
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

Posted on
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