Beautiful Teeth Without Breaking The Bank

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


Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

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


Overlapping Teeth Can Be Corrected for a Beautiful Smile in Provo

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

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

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


Why Now is the Perfect Time to Visit Your Provo Dentist

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

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


What Do You Do If You Get Something Stuck Between Your Teeth?

what to do if something is stuck between your teeth Provo

Men and women get food stuck in and between their teeth all the time. Most of the time it is not a malfunction to get the food unstuck with floss or a toothbrush and move on with your day. However, once in a while, there is a pesky piece of food that seems practically impossible to get out of your teeth. So, what do you do if this is the case?

Sometimes, depending on the food stuck between your teeth and where the food is stuck, it can be dangerous and possibly damaging to your teeth to remove it on your own. Remember that you do not need to do everything yourself, and it is okay and often safer to seek professional help.

Dr. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is available to help you when something is stuck between your teeth and is too problematic or dangerous to get out on your own. A dentist can carefully and safely remove the piece of food that is stuck and causing irritation or discomfort.

When to seek professional dental care to get food unstuck from between your teeth: 

It is important to seek care from a dentist if the food stuck between your teeth causes you pain. Also, if you get food stuck deep between your teeth, in your gums, or a hard-to-reach location like the back teeth it is a smart move to see a dentist for help.

Trying to take action and fix the problem on your own in any of these settings can lead to consequences. For example, if a piece of food gets stuck in the gums and you accidentally push it farther in, making it harder to get out, you may cause your gums to get infected.

This happened to 41-year-old firefighter Adam Martin in January of 2020. Martin got a popcorn kernel stuck between his teeth that he continuously poked at and tried to get unstuck for months. The constant prodding with random sharp objects led to a potentially fatal blood infection that required open heart surgery to treat. After the surgery, Martin said, “If I had gone to the dentist in the first place, then none of this would have happened.”

The possible consequences of trying to remove food from between your teeth on your own:

  1. Puncturing and/or infecting the gums
  2. Breaking or cracking the teeth
  3. Creating pain
  4. Causing existing pain to worsen

In conclusion, if you get food stuck between your teeth that does not easily come out by flossing or brushing your teeth you should take caution and seek professional dental help. It is much better to have a dentist safely remove the food than to try to do it yourself and end up in more pain or with an infection.

 

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

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


The Crucial Habit and The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo Utah

The Crucial Habit and The Importance of Regular Dental Check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo Utah

One of the most essential habits for maintaining a healthy smile and a healthy body is getting regular dental check-ups. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, we understand the importance of these routine appointments and are committed to providing you with the care you need to keep your smile in its best shape.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

One of the most fundamental reasons for regular dental check-ups is prevention. When you visit Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for your regular check-up, our skilled dental professionals can identify and address issues at their earliest stages, often before you even notice any symptoms.

Preventing dental problems is more effective, less painful, and less expensive than treating them once fully developed. Routine cleanings and check-ups help to remove plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. By catching and treating issues like cavities early, we can help you avoid more extensive procedures down the line.

Oral Health is Connected to Overall Health

As we have well established, your mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of your body; it’s a crucial part of it. Gum disease, for example, has been linked to various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. When you take care of your oral health through regular dental check-ups, you also take care of your overall health.

Maintaining a Beautiful Smile

Regular dental check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah can help you maintain a beautiful smile. A professional cleaning can remove stains and plaque that dull your teeth, leaving you with a brighter, more attractive smile. Additionally, our dental professionals can provide guidance on cosmetic procedures that can enhance your smile if you desire.

Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer can be life-threatening if not detected and treated in its early stages. During a routine dental check-up, our team will thoroughly examine your mouth. Early detection of oral cancer significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Building a Relationship with Your Dental Team

Consistent dental check-ups also allow you to establish a relationship with our dental professionals at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. We get to know you, your unique oral health needs, and your preferences. This familiarity can make your visits more comfortable and help us tailor our care to your specific requirements.

Regular dental check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah are not just about keeping your teeth clean; they are about safeguarding your overall health and well-being. By making dental check-ups a part of your routine, you can enjoy a healthier, more beautiful smile and peace of mind in knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to care for your oral and overall health. Don’t wait until problems arise; schedule your next dental check-up today and invest in a lifetime of smiles.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604