Dental Health

Tooth Replacement For The 21st Century

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Implants, Dentures

Utah County tooth implant supported dentures

Not everything was better back in the “good old days.” Take dentures, for instance. Dentures have been around for generations and have certainly improved the lives of thousands of Provo people who have lost many or all of their teeth.

But those old-school false teeth are not the ideal tooth replacement. Traditional dentures can impede many critical oral functions: chewing, tasting, swallowing, talking, and smiling.

You may know denture wearers who have stopped attending social activities because they are embarrassed by dentures that are far from inconspicuous. Some have even stopped eating their favorite foods because their dentures diminish their power to taste and/or chew.

There is great news for Provo residents with missing teeth: Dentures have evolved!

Implant-anchored or implant-supported dentures are far superior than conventional dentures for many patients. So much better, in fact, that there really should be another term for this revolutionary tooth replacement system – a term that doesn’t include the word “denture.” (If you can think of a good name, let us know.)

There are two types of implant anchored dentures; removable and permanent. No adhesive is necessary for either system. With the permanent type, screw retentions are anchored in the jaw to serve as attachment points for the denture. Permanent implant-supported dentures are very stable. Furthermore, they are usually less pricey than replacing each missing tooth with an implant. (The cost varies depending on the number of implants needed and other factors.)

Screw retentions require enough bone thickness to allow the implant to securely mesh with the existing bone. Unfortunately, some patients who have been missing teeth for a long period of time have experienced bone recession. For patients who lack the required amount of bone, mini-implants may be an alternative.

Removable implant anchored dentures have a locator attachment which allows the wearer to snap the appliance in place. Some patients prefer this type because they can remove them at night for cleaning. Countless Provo patients who have traded in their traditional dentures report that their implant anchored dentures have greatly improved their life.

The benefits of implant-supported dentures include:

  • Increased comfort
  • Natural appearance
  • Normal tooth function
  • Improved strength
  • Better bone retention
  • Denture relines not needed
  • Minimal gum irritation
  • No denture adhesive necessary

To find out more about dental implants and implant-supported dentures, call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo.

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 6958

Super Smiles Have Strong Enamel

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

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Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance in the body? It’s true! This substance, found on the outer surface of your teeth, is meant to last a lifetime. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we help our patients keep their teeth and enamel healthy.

Enamel may be super tough, but you still need to work to take care of it. Here are some helpful tips for keeping enamel healthy.

1. Pick the right foods for enamel health. It’s no secret that soft drinks damage your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are also other culinary culprits that can do a lot of harm. Sticky, chewy candies should be avoided. Chewing ice is a no-no. And don’t use your teeth as tools. Take a minute to grab some scissors before you rip open that package with your incisors.

On the flip side, foods with calcium can neutralize acid in your mouth and protect your enamel. So, enjoy your dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt!

2. Avoid vigorous brushing and use a soft brush. Also, it’s best to brush about an hour after eating, because foods, especially acidic ones, can soften the enamel, thus making it more prone to weakening from brushing. If your teeth are discolored or yellowish, you may feel you need to brush harder. Instead, ask us about teeth whitening.

3. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, the stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so it is essential to speak with your doctor about treatment.

4. Talk to us about dry mouth and tooth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major problem for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can also wear it down. Let us know if you experience either of these issues.

At Hammond Aesthetic& General Dentistry in Provo, we want our patients to have the best oral health possible, and enamel health is a key component. We provide family and cosmetic 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

 

ArticleID 7132

Healthy Living Starts With A Smile

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

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What comes to mind when you hear the term “healthy living?” A dinner plate with a grilled chicken breast and carrot sticks? The sound of your feet rhythmically hitting the ground on your favorite jogging footpath? A cholesterol test indicating that your arteries are in great shape? If you pictured a white, healthy smile or a dental X-ray showing no dental caries, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo salutes you.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we urge everyone with a smile (that includes you!) to include oral health in your definition of “healthy living.”

When done thoroughly and consistently, brushing and flossing are an integral component of everyday oral hygiene. Brushing should be done at least twice a day. We recommend a soft-bristled toothbrush to guard your gums. Brush your teeth in small, circular motions for 2-3 minutes and make sure you reach all the surfaces.

Flossing should be done once a day and is necessary for reaching the areas that a toothbrush can’t. A wide variety of floss can be found at Provo stores, so experiment until find one you like.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we provide a range of cosmetic dentistry procedures, and aim to give you your dream smile. Schedule a consultation 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

 

Focusing On The Top 3 At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Invisalign Invisible Braces, Porcelain Veneers, Sedation Dentistry

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At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we focus on three important things as we strive to be your dental provider of choice.

Family

We want to be the dental practice families trust in for quality care, whether for routine preventative services, tooth restoration, or cosmetic dentistry. If your son chips a tooth and is in extreme pain, we want to be the first choice that comes to mind. We offer variety for any family’s various dental needs.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on your Family.

Facts

When we sit down in consultation and you say “Dr. Chris Hammond, I need to know the cost of veneers, dental implants, the cost of a dental bridge… I need to know my options.” We’ll give you the bottom line on cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, and dental implants. Whether it’s affordable dental care for quality of life or affordable cosmetic dentistry for increased confidence, we’re here.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on the Facts.

A Friendly, Comfortable, and Safe Environment

We focus on clean, bright, and inviting and follow rigorous standards of sterilization. Our team here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is friendly, professional, and considerate.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry focuses on a Friendly atmosphere.

Schedule your next appointment with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo 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 6436

Kids Who Like Dental Visits?

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Categories: Clear braces, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, Family Dentistry, Invisalign Invisible Braces, Porcelain Veneers

friendly children

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we are proud of the fact that the majority of our young patients like visiting our office for their checkups, cleanings, and treatments. We believe that establishing a relationship with an experienced, friendly dentist is a vital responsibility for parents.

The Oral Health-Physical Health Connection

Optimal physical health for children is impossible without the oral health component. Though this fact seems obvious, dental caries in children is a national epidemic, and, for the most part, is preventable. Regular checkups are just as critical as well child exams and immunizations.

The health of your child’s teeth and gums influences their speech development, eating habits, academic success, mental health, and social relationships. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we love working with you and your child to establish habits that ensure a healthy smile for life.

The Good News

Today’s children are far less fearful of the dentist than their grandparents’ generation. Part of the reason is that today’s dental tools have advanced significantly and rarely cause any pain. If you are old enough to remember the whining dental drills of fifty years ago, you probably have a greater appreciation for the technological discoveries that make dental treatment far more pleasant than in years past.

But advanced tools are not the only reason that our youngest patients look forward to dental visits. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, there is a friendly atmosphere that puts patients of all ages at ease. If you are looking for a top dentist for your child, rest assured that our caring team will make your child feel comfortable during their dental visit.

When Should A Child Have Their First Dental Checkup?

We counsel parents to bring their toddler in for a first exam before age one, or when their first tooth erupts. During the initial visit, we can review dental treatments such as sealants, fluoride treatments, brushing and flossing techniques, and orthodontics.

Bring Your Questions

We also give moms and dads guidance about thumb-sucking, pacifiers, and other habits that affect dental health.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we specialize in porcelain veneers and clear braces from Invisalign. 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

 

The Dangers Of Oral Infections

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, Family Dentistry

oral infection exam Orem

It happens to most people at least once in their life. Your teeth become sensitive to cold drinks. A tooth develops a dull ache. A sore on the gums doesn’t heal up. An injured tooth darkens. A pain develops in your lower sinus area. Your dentist in Provo can help.

It is definitely not a situation where the “ignore it and it will go away” mentality is wise. If the pain is the result of a detrimental infection, there are grave consequences of postponing treatment. Oral bacterial infections can destroy teeth, gums and jawbone and even lead to life-threatening sepsis. In fact, prior to the 19th century, tooth decay-related infection was a leading cause of death.

An oral infection doesn’t always cause pain. Bad breath, fever, swelling in the gums, glands or jaw, or a strange taste in the mouth can indicate the presence of an infection.

If an infection is caught and treated early, there may be no additional problems. However, usually the infection is the result of a dental issue that needs to be treated. If the infection is caused by tooth decay, the decay will have to be removed and the tooth filled. If the decay has penetrated to the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be required.

The infection may be the result of a pocket of undrained pus called an abscess. Pus is a by-product of the immune system’s efforts to fight infection and consists of dead white blood cells.

Mouth sores have various causes including an infection or virus. White patches in the mouth can indicate thrush (an oral yeast infection). All of these conditions can be treated – but you need to see your dentist.

If you have any signs of oral infection, or haven’t had a dental exam in the past year, call us at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We provide family dentistry, and services like dental implants. 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

 

6 Ways To Improve Your Smile

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, Dream smile, Family Dentistry

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Who would say no to a prettier smile? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we think the answer is no one. With all of the cosmetic dentistry procedures available, most of our dental patients can get the smile they want.

Here is a quick look at some of the most popular treatments.

1. Teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry procedure and it is used to lighten discolored teeth. This quick and easy treatment is usually done in the dentist office, and the results can be surprisingly dramatic.

2. Bonding is a popular treatment that uses a dental composite that resembles enamel. This material is applied to the surface of the teeth, sculpted into the desired shape, and then hardened and polished.

3. Tooth reshaping is a simple way to improve the appearance of teeth. It involves removing part of the enamel and can be used to fix small chips or to change the length or position of teeth.

4. Veneers are custom-made porcelain coverings that are very thin. They are bonded to the teeth and can be used to close gaps or cover discolored teeth.

5. For most Provo, American Fork, and Utah County patients, dental implants are the best way to fix a missing tooth.

6. And finally, there is your dream smile. This is a combination of the available treatments to get Utah County dental patients the smiles they want.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we want our patients to have the best oral health possible, and to look their best, too. We provide cosmetic and 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

 

Five Facts About Enamel Erosion

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

enamel erosion treatment Provo

Our teeth work hard and are constantly under attack. It’s no wonder that nature encases them with an armor of enamel—the hardest substance in the body. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your dentist in Provo, we remind you that enamel erosion may be widespread, but it is also largely preventable.

Enamel’s chief enemies are acidic foods and beverages. Other factors that can weaken enamel or wear it away are various medications, teeth grinding, acid reflux, gastrointestinal ailments, chewing ice or other hard substances, and eating disorders.

Here are five quick facts about enamel erosion:

  • Enamel is unlike many other tissues in the body. Once it is worn away, it can’t be regenerated.
  • According to the National Institute of Health, 41% of young people already have enamel erosion.
  • Brushing teeth too forcefully can damage enamel.
  • Diet sodas, sports drinks, and energy drinks are just as harmful as sugared sodas.
  • Dry mouth can weaken enamel because it results in less saliva, which helps keep enamel healthy and strong.

If you  already have enamel erosion, there are several dental procedures that can protect the teeth that have been harmed. Call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo to schedule an examination. Our services include cosmetic and family dentistry. Make 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

 

Less Is More In Dentistry

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Dental Implants, Family Dentistry

Provo affordable family dentist

There are momentous new developments in Utah dentistry: stronger, natural-looking materials; improved techniques; more effective diagnostic methods; and more precise instruments. Combine these with the experience and expertise of Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo and you’re left with less of what used to make people dread going to the dentist.

Less Pain
Improved painkillers, lasers, and state-of-the art techniques take the pain out of dental procedures.

Less Inconvenience
Laser dentistry, which employs powerful beams of light, has significantly reduced the time required to complete dental treatment.

Less Time Needed To Heal
Laser dentistry helps curb recovery times for procedures such as dental implants, root canals, smile redesigns, and other types of oral surgery.

Less Risk
The overall success rate of many dental procedures, including dental implants, has increased.

Less Loss of Healthy Tooth Structure
Dental procedures such as decay removal, inlays, porcelain veneers, and crown restoration can be performed with less loss of healthy tooth structure.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we provide a wide range of services, from dental implants to porcelain veneers. To those coping with dental anxiety, we offer sedation 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

 

Developing Good Dental Habits

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Developing Good Dental Habits In Utah County

Benjamin Franklin once said that it’s easier to prevent bad habits than to break them. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we couldn’t agree more! For parents, teaching your children good oral hygiene techniques early  will start them on a lifetime of good dental health.

If you wait too long to teach your child how to brush and floss, or if you don’t make sure they are doing it enough, you’re setting yourself up for a lot of work down the road.

It’s very hard to convince an older child that they should be spending two or three times longer brushing their teeth each morning and night. But, if they’ve done it for as long as they can remember, then their habits should be sufficient to avoid excessive dental decay or the need for children’s cosmetic dentistry in Provo.

If you are looking for quality dental care in the Provo area, give us a call at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. We provide family and cosmetic 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