Beautiful smile

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

Yes! You Can Replace Old Fillings

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

white fillings Provo

Superficial cuts in the skin subside without a trace, infections are killed with antibiotics, broken bones mend, and inflamed tissues abate. Our teeth, unfortunately, can’t regenerate. Decay can be halted in its progress, but scientists are still years away from actual enamel regeneration. That’s why the team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry strongly emphasizes preventative dentistry.

Few People Avoid Cavities

The healthiest mouths have all teeth intact and free of current or former tooth decay. But how many smiles can boast such an admirable record? Very few.

The stark reality is that most individuals get one or more cavities over the course of their lifetime.

Most men and women in Utah probably don’t even know someone who has never had a cavity. Tooth decay is second only to the common cold as the most frequent health issue in childhood. When we reach middle age, many of us have even had a root canal or two.

Depending on the size of the cavity, after cleaning and preparing the tooth, your dentist can fill it, place a crown, or carry out a root canal (usually followed by a crown).

Restorations Have Come a Long Way

Modern restorations have many advantages over those in years past. There are stronger and more natural-looking materials. Many of our patients at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry who have not had a filling for a while, are not aware that white fillings are available. You can even replace old amalgam fillings with white fillings and give your mouth a makeover!

As we said before, when a tooth is compromised by injury or decay, it is never exactly the way it was before. But now, with modern fillings and crowns, it can regain strength and beauty.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

385-375-3715

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Take 5: Straight Talk About Braces

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Braces, Clear braces, Cosmetic Dentistry

invisible braces ProvoHello, I’m Dr. Chris Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. I support healthy oral hygiene and regular, consistent check-ups. Hygiene for braces is a bit different.

Here are five important concerns to keep in mind with braces:

1. Be Careful What You Eat
Sweets and extra food stuck in hard-to-notice spaces may lead to plaque and yellowing around the appliances in your mouth. Avoid sweets, juices, sodas, anything that will stain your teeth. Also, sticky things like gum and caramel can break the equipment in your mouth.

2. Consider a Mouthguard
Sports are the center of life for many Provo families. We’re an active community. I love that. A quality mouthguard provides important protection for both your teeth and braces.

3. Take Time for Gum Health
Maintaining healthy gums requires deliberate brushing and flossing. In the past, two minutes of quality brushing was acceptable. Braces are trickier to clean. What’s another minute to make sure every nook and cranny is taken care of?

4. Check the Mirrors
Humans are exceptional at noticing flaws. Check your smile often in a mirror to keep your braces free of obvious food particles.

5. Smile with Confidence
At first, people will notice the change in your smile. But if you’re relaxed about your new braces, soon your friends will simply look past them without even noticing.

Thanks for visiting my blog today, hope it helps.

I’ve been treating patients in Orem, American Fork, Lehi, and beyond since 1967. You name it – dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry—we do it.

Meet with me today and we can go over the possibilities and uncomplicated options to meet your needs. Can’t wait to see 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

A Beautiful Smile is Timeless

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

Your Smile Doesn’t Have to Show Your Age in Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we know that every stage of life has its pros and cons. For example, in our golden years, we may enjoy traveling, more free time and grandchildren. However, most  retirees do not welcome wrinkles, limited mobility or dental problems.

Fortunately, your smile can be healthy and pleasing throughout your life. With cosmetic and restorative dentistry, you can have a youthful smile at any age.

Regain Your Youthful Smile

Even if your teeth are showing visible signs of wear, we can help. Do you have any of the following concerns?

  • Enamel loss
  • Staining
  • Chips
  • Missing teeth
  • Broken dental work
  • Gum recession
  • Old amalgam fillings

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we serve you with a full array of dental services including dental implants sleep apnea, and cosmetic dentistry.

Could Your Smile Benefit From Adult Braces?

Would you like to straighten your teeth? Modern braces can correct all types of tooth alignment dilemmas. Overbite? Gap between your two front teeth? Crowded teeth?

Now, individuals of any age can have an extraordinary smile that looks as young as they feel. Let’s discuss some orthodontic options.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear aligners instead of metal or ceramic brackets. With Invisalign aligners, you switch aligners every couple of weeks as your teeth gently shift into place.

How can straightening teeth improve your life?

We all know that a an attractive smile improves one’s appearance. Everyone wants to look better. However, the benefits aren’t purely aesthetic.

  • Straight teeth can prohibit decay
  • If teeth are aligned properly, you are less likely to snore
  • Decreases the risk of periodontitis (advanced gum disease),
  • Straightening teeth can help you eat a healthier diet

Regardless of your age, it is not too late to enhance your smile–even if you have some missing teeth. Braces combined with tooth implants can transform a smile.

If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, you will be interested to learn about the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments. Many procedures can be completed in one visit with us at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT. We serve patients in American Fork and Lehi seeking all kinds of services, including restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Contact us for an appointment 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

Implants or Traditional Dentures? Ask Yourself These Questions When Choosing

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Implants, Dentures

dental implants Provo

If you want to restore your smile due to extensive tooth loss, you have a decision. Will you choose conventional dentures, or dentures supported by dental implants, like those available at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT? When you consider the advantages of implants, there is really no contest.

Let’s compare conventional removable dentures and dental implants.

Feel

Dentures sit right on the gums. An adhesive is used to help maintain the daily fit A dental implant is surgically fixed into the jawbone similar to one’s original teeth.

Effective years

Dentures typically last 7 to 15 years. As one’s jawbone changes shape, dentures need to be adjusted to fit. Implants are fitted once.

Bone Loss

Missing teeth lead to bone loss, whch in turn changes the shape of the face. Unfortunately this shows in the face with a shrunken look. Implants help stimulate the jawbone, which helps to keep the shape of the bone and facial structure.

Speech

Dentures can move and shift as you wear them, affecting speech patterns. Dental implants are anchored securely in the jawbone, and don’t interfere with speech at all.

Eating

Sticky or hard foods are difficult or even impossible when chewing with dentures. Implant-supported dentures allow you to eat any kind of food.

Implant-supported dentures from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT have transformed tooth replacement. We’ve placed them in patients from American Fork and Lehi, who also come to us for complete general dentistry. Call for 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

 

ArticleID 8347

How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Tooth Color

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening, Your dream smile

teeth whitening ProvoMost of us would like to have white teeth and a great smile. But discolored or just plain yellow teeth is common, especially in a world of tea and coffee drinkers. At Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT, we can fix that.

Tooth enamel is a little like skin. It has pores that can get clogged and discolored. The most common habits that work against you are:

  • Tobacco
  • Sodas and other dark colored drinks, i.e. coffee, red wines, and teas
  • Not practicing daily oral hygiene
  • Not having proper dental care

If you want to lighten your teeth, the above will consistently work against you.

We advise kicking these habits to the curb if you want the whitest teeth possible. (There are other good health reasons, too.)

If, in spite of your best efforts, your smile is still dull, professional teeth whitening from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT can revive it. People throughout American Fork and Lehi trust us with their smiles! We also offer Invisalign clear braces, and other smile-improving options. Call for an appointment 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

 

ArticleID 8137

Dental Problem? There Is Always A Solution!

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

smile makeover cost Provo

A healthy, pleasing smile can have a positive impact on anyone’s life. It lets us convey confidence and friendliness in business and social settings. If dental problems have dulled your smile, cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo can revive it.

It’s been said that cosmetic dentistry is part science and part art. That’s a good definition, but we would add that we use sound dental techniques to bring positive changes to the smiles of our patients.

Smile improvement with cosmetic dentistry can have positive changes on your life. There are many techniques we can use, depending on the state of your smile: we can correct teeth that are discolored, chipped, mis-shapen, and even missing.

Traditional dentistry addresses the health of your teeth and gums, and that certainly has its place in what we do. Cosmetic dentistry improves appearance, to complement the overall general and dental health of each patient.

Your teeth take a lot of wear and tear, but cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo can restore your smile to its youthful appearance. People from American Fork and Lehi come to our practice for complete general dentistry, and so much more. Call today to schedule your next checkup!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

 

ArticleID 7037

Why Improve Your Smile?

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

oral health Provo

Would you like to improve the appearance of your smile? With cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, transforming your smile has never been easier.

Cosmetic dentistry is a term that refers to dental techniques that enhance the appearance of your smile. We can make teeth brighter, in better alignment with each other, or without the chips or cracks that have detracted from them for as long as you can remember. We can even replace a tooth that is missing with one that is indistinguishable from a natural tooth.

Cosmetic dentistry procedures include:

  • Teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening surpasses any product you’ll find at the grocery store.
  • Porcelain veneers. Thin shells of medical-grade porcelain are attached to the front of your teeth to cover imperfections like stains, chips, or gaps.
  • Clear braces. Invisalign clear braces straighten teeth and fit like a mouth guard. They can be removed for meals and when you brush your teeth.
  • Dental implants. State-of-the-art dental implants are titanium posts inserted into your jaw, where the fuse with bone to form a rock-solid support for an artificial tooth.

Does any of this sound too good to be true? Well, seeing is believing! Cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo can transform your smile into something spectacular. Patients from American Fork and Lehi also come to our office for our general dentistry. Schedule an appointment 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

 

ArticleID 8542

Five Fast Ways to Improve Your Smile

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

cosmetic dental and implants ProvoDo you have a special event coming up? Perhaps a wedding, graduation, milestone birthday, anniversary, or reunion? At Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo we have five cosmetic dentistry procedures that can usually be completed in one office visit, to quickly improve your smile!

  • Veneers. Porcelain veneers have been a successful treatment for decades but we never fail to be amazed by the results. A veneer is a super-thin layer of porcelain bonded permanently to the front of a tooth. A veneer can cover a chip, hide a crack, make discoloration disappear, or correct a misshapen tooth.
  • Gum Contouring. Perhaps your teeth are sensational and healthy but you have a gumline that is too low or too high and detracts from the presentation. Gum contouring can reshape the gumline and beautify your smile.
  • Enamel Shaping. Just one slightly misshapen tooth can downgrade the aspects of a smile even if all the other teeth look great. Let us reshape the tooth so it blends in seamlessly.
  • Bonding. Dental bonding just gets better and better. Bonding is used in a multitude of applications to fix teeth with cosmetic and structural problems. The newest prep techniques are minimally invasive – leaving you with more of your own tooth structure.
  • Teeth Whitening. Make your smile pop with professional in-office teeth whitening. There is nothing like a terrific white smile to give you optimal confidence.

Cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo is an investment that will bless you every day. We’ve improved the smiles of people from American Fork and Lehi, who also come to our office for family dentistry. 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

 

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