Dental Health

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Utah

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health, General Dentistry

Tooth Injuries and How To Treat Them In Utah

Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and one area of the body that is particularly vulnerable to injury is the mouth, including the teeth.

Tooth injuries can range from minor chips and cracks to more severe cases such as fractures or avulsions (complete tooth displacement). Understanding the causes, types, and immediate actions for tooth injuries is crucial for minimizing pain, preventing further damage, and preserving dental health.

If you experience a tooth injury, come into Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry as soon as possible and we can help you make a plan for repair, recovery, and long-term care.

In the meantime, let’s take a look at common Utah tooth injuries, their causes, and what steps to take in case of an emergency.

Causes of Tooth Injuries

  • Tooth injuries can occur due to various factors, including:
  • Accidental Falls: Falling can result in impact to the face, causing teeth to hit hard surfaces.
  • Sports Injuries: Contact sports or recreational activities without proper mouthguards can lead to tooth injuries from collisions or falls.
  • Vehicle Accidents: High-speed collisions or sudden stops can cause severe trauma to the face and mouth.
  • Biting Hard Objects: Biting down on hard foods, ice, or non-food items can cause tooth fractures or chips.
  • Physical Altercations: Punches, kicks, or other forms of physical violence can result in tooth injuries.

Types of Tooth Injuries

Tooth injuries can vary in severity in Utah, and they can be classified into several types:

  • Fractured or Cracked Teeth: These injuries involve partial or complete fractures of the tooth structure. They can range from minor cracks affecting only the enamel to more severe fractures extending into the dentin or pulp.
  • Chipped Teeth: This type of injury involves a small piece of the tooth enamel breaking off, usually caused by a direct impact.
  • Luxation Injuries: Luxation refers to the abnormal displacement of a tooth. It can include subluxation (tooth pushed out of alignment), extrusion (tooth partially pushed out of the socket), lateral displacement (tooth moved sideways), or intrusion (tooth pushed into the socket).
  • Avulsion: Avulsion occurs when a tooth is completely knocked out from its socket. Immediate action is crucial in attempting to save the tooth.

Immediate Actions for Tooth Injuries

In case of a tooth injury, it’s important to take immediate action at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to minimize damage and maximize the chances of saving the tooth.

Here are some steps to follow:

  1. Stay Calm: Remaining calm helps you think clearly and act effectively.
  2. Assess the Injury: Examine the affected tooth and surrounding area to determine the severity of the injury.
  3. Control Bleeding: If there is bleeding, rinse your mouth gently with warm water and apply a clean piece of gauze or a tea bag to the area for about 10 minutes. If bleeding persists or is severe, seek immediate medical attention.
  4. Preserve the Tooth: If a tooth is completely knocked out (avulsed), try to re-implant it into the socket, if possible. Handle the tooth by the crown (top part) and avoid touching the root. If re-implantation is not possible, place the tooth in a container with milk or a saline solution to keep it moist.
  5. Seek Dental Care: Regardless of the severity of the injury, it is essential to visit your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry as soon as possible. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can assess the injury, provide appropriate treatment, and offer guidance for optimal recovery.

Preventing Tooth Injuries

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are preventive measures that can significantly reduce the risk of tooth injuries:

Wear Protective Gear. When engaging in contact sports or activities with a risk of dental trauma, use a mouthguard or helmet with a face shield to protect your teeth.

Avoid Biting Hard into foods. Biting into a bone or other unexpected obstruction can result in chipped or broken teeth.

Avoid using your teeth as a tool. It’s sometimes natural to use your teeth to open packages or to hold items while you tug at them. This is a risky practice that can result in damage to your teeth.

Be safe out there, and protect your teeth from injury. If you need a recommendation for tooth protection during work or sports, come into Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, and let’s talk about it.

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 You Should Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Why You Should Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Having a bright, healthy smile can be a major confidence booster.

Professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is one of the most effective ways to achieve a healthy smile. Not only does it help to remove surface stains and discoloration, but it also helps to promote overall oral health.

Professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can brighten your smile and improve your overall health.

Firstly, it is important to understand what professional teeth cleaning entails. During a professional teeth cleaning, a Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums. We’ll also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and give your smile a brighter appearance.

One of the main benefits of professional teeth cleaning is that it can help to prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a serious oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. By removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, a professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help to prevent the development of gum disease.

Another benefit of professional teeth cleaning is that it can help to improve your overall oral health. During the cleaning, our Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or other issues. By catching these issues early, we can help you take steps to address them before they become more serious.

In addition to improving your oral health, professional teeth cleaning can also have cosmetic benefits. By removing surface stains and discoloration, a professional teeth cleaning can help to brighten your smile and give you a more youthful appearance. This can be particularly beneficial if you have stained or discolored teeth due to factors such as smoking, drinking coffee or red wine, or other staining foods.

Finally, it is important to note that professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is a relatively quick and painless procedure. While some people may experience slight discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning, it is generally well-tolerated and does not require any anesthesia or other sedation.

Professional teeth cleaning is an important part of maintaining good oral health and achieving a bright, healthy smile. By removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, it can help to prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. Additionally, by removing surface stains and discoloration, it can give you a more confident and youthful appearance. If you have not had a professional teeth cleaning in a while, now is the time to schedule an appointment with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo Utah.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Provo Utah

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Provo Utah

Tooth decay is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages in Provo Utah.

Tooth decay is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth. That plaque can harbor bacteria that produce acid. This acid can erode the enamel of your teeth which leads to cavities and tooth decay. The impact of tooth decay can be significant, including pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent tooth decay and protect your oral health in the Orem area.

The impact of tooth decay can vary depending on the severity of the problem. In the early stages, tooth decay may not cause any symptoms, and the damage can be reversed with proper dental care. However, as tooth decay progresses it can lead to a range of problems.

Some of the most common effects of tooth decay are progressive, including:

  • Tooth pain and sensitivity: As the enamel wears away, the underlying layers of the tooth become exposed. This can cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages and may lead to sharp, throbbing pain. If you are experiencing these symptoms, visit Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a checkup as soon as you can.
  • Cavities: When tooth decay progresses, it can lead to the formation of cavities. These are small holes in the teeth that can become larger over time if left untreated. Our staff at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can fix cavities before they become a significant problem, but we have to catch them early. Come in to Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for regular checkups to help prevent cavities, and to catch them before they become a significant problem.
  • Infection: If tooth decay is not treated, it can eventually reach the pulp of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. This can lead to infection, which can cause pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. This is a severe and advanced stage of tooth decay and we want to help you avoid this critical concern. If you are experiencing an infection, come in to Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry immediately and let us get you on a treatment plan.
  • Bad breath: As a special bonus, the bacteria that cause tooth decay can also contribute to bad breath. At the very least, your social status may be at risk. Worse yet, this can be an early sign of poor oral habits. We can help you assess your condition and prescribe treatment to restore your oral health and get you back on your feet.

To prevent tooth decay and its impact, there are several simple steps we recommend:

Brush and floss regularly: Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day can help remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste, which can strengthen the enamel of your teeth.

  • Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to the buildup of plaque and increase your risk of tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. You may find that this advice aligns well with good diet decisions, too.
  • Visit your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and identify any problems early on. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can also recommend treatments and procedures to protect your teeth.
  • Use dental sealants: Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating that can be applied to the back teeth. They can help prevent tooth decay by sealing out bacteria and food particles. Ask us about dental sealants on your next visit and let’s discuss whether this is a good option for you and your family.
  • Consider fluoride treatments: Fluoride treatments can be applied to the teeth to help strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can recommend the best fluoride treatment for your needs; all we need to do is a quick checkup to see if this is the best treatment for you.

Tooth decay can have a significant impact on your oral health and overall well-being. By taking simple steps to prevent tooth decay, such as brushing and flossing regularly, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly, you can protect your teeth and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Your Dentist Provides Comprehensive Oral Care

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

top dental practice Orem

How does your dentist help you stay healthy?

Most men and women know that they can go to their dentist if they chip a tooth or have a toothache. Because of this, they may not realize how many other health issues your dentist can help you with.

A full-service dental practice provides comprehensive oral health care.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is usually due to bacteria build-up in the mouth. Perhaps, however, you have unpleasant breath even though you brush and floss daily. If that’s the case, talk to your dentist. She or he can help you discover the cause of your problem. It could be an infection or a side effect of prescription medications. You need a professional diagnosis and we are here for you.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. Reduction of saliva flow is a common dilemma, especially among older men and women. However, people of all ages experience the symptoms of dry mouth at one time or another. These symptoms include a dry, red tongue, difficulty swallowing, and persistent sore throat.

Unfortunately, it can result in a host of problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. A lot of men and women experience dry mouth because of medications or medical conditions. Make sure you bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge-type joint that allows you to open and close your mouth. If you have pain or clicking in your jaw, you may have TMD. But the first step is diagnosing the cause of the malady. For example, teeth clenching or grinding can cause or exacerbate TMD. Your dentist can tell if you grind your teeth in your sleep. The condition can also be caused or aggravated by injury or arthritis. Some people who experience TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress. If stress is the only cause, stress-reducing habits can help you prevent it or decrease the severity.

Snoring

Your dentist can help stop your snoring whether or not you have OSA. Many dentists in the Provo area provide Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). With OAT, a custom-made mouthpiece helps keep your airway open throughout the night. If your bed partner tells you that you snore, do him or her a favor and get professional help!

Oral Cancer

Dentists also perform oral cancer checks when they examine a patient. Oral cancer accounts for about three percent of all cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. This amounts to 53,000 new cases annually. That means thousands of Utah residents receive the grim news every year. Early detection is critical for all types of cancer, but especially so for cancers of the mouth and throat.

Teeth Grinding

Your dentist may also be able to help you with teeth grinding. Tooth grinding while sleeping can wreak havoc on your teeth as well as cause severe headaches.. If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night—schedule a consultation and evaluation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. It’s not just an annoyance, teeth grinding can cause headaches, sleep problems and put you at risk of decay and gum recession.

Sports Protection

Your dentist may also create custom sports mouthguards. If you or your child participates in a contact sport, talk to your dentist about a quality, custom-fitted mouthguard.

If you have questions about any of these issues or want to schedule an exam, give us a call today. We look forward to meeting 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

Dry Mouth Can Cause Dental Problems

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

dry mouth treatment Provo

A decline of saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common problem, especially among older men and women.

Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it can cause tooth damage. Saliva is needed to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Extensive tooth decay can occur in the absence of saliva for dental patients with chronic dry mouth.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

  • Dry, red or grooved tongue
  • Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
  • Sticky feeling in the mouth
  • Saliva that seems thick and stringy
  • Bad breath
  • Difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing
  • Changes in taste
  • Difficulty wearing dentures (Mayo Clinic)

Contributing conditions include medications and treatments, reduction in the body’s power to metabolize medication, chronic health problems and poor nutrition.

For example, chemotherapy medication can curtail saliva production and radiation treatments to the head and neck can damage salivary glands, decreasing saliva production.

Other medical conditions include diabetes, stroke, or yeast infection in the mouth.

Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers (all used extensively in Provo) are some of the medications that can result in dry mouth.

It is common for allergy-prone Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental patients to complain of dry mouth when they start taking antihistamines during the hay fever season.

The following can also contribute to dry mouth:

  • Snoring or breathing through the mouth
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Tobacco use (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco)
  • Recreational drugs

If you are plagued with dry mouth, it’s critical to pay special attention to your dental health. The first step is to talk to a professional. Call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to schedule an appointment with Dr. Chris Hammond.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Can I have my Utah cake and eat it too (and still have healthy teeth?)

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Can I have my Utah cake and eat it too (and still have healthy teeth?)

Eating sweets and maintaining healthy teeth can be a tricky balance.

While it’s always tempting to indulge in sugary treats in our Orem area, too much sugar can lead to tooth decay and other oral health problems.

With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy your favorite Utah treats and still maintain healthy teeth.

The key to preventing tooth decay in Utah is to limit the amount of time your teeth are exposed to sugar. When you eat sweets, the sugar combines with the bacteria in your mouth to form an acid that can erode your tooth enamel. This acid attack can last for up to 20 minutes after you finish eating. The more frequently you consume sweets, the more time your teeth are exposed to this acid.

Eating sweets at bedtime can lengthen the amount of time sugary acid can impact your teeth. For this reason, we recommend you avoid eating sweets in bed. Make sure to brush before you hit the sack to ensure your mouth is clear of bacteria-feeding sugars that can contribute to tooth decay and other oral problems.

To minimize the impact of sugar on your teeth, it’s best to eat sweets as part of a meal rather than as a snack on its own. When you eat with a meal, your mouth produces more saliva, which can help neutralize harmful acids and rinse away food particles. Eating sweets with a meal also limits the amount of time your teeth are exposed to sugar, and hopefully reduces the amount of sugar you need to be satisfied.

Another strategy for maintaining healthy teeth while eating sweets is to choose sweets that are less harmful to your teeth. Sticky, chewy candies and sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time, like lollipops, are the worst offenders when it comes to tooth decay. Sweets that dissolve quickly are a better choice, as they spend less time in your mouth.

If you do indulge in sweets, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth afterward. This will help remove any food particles and plaque that may have accumulated on your teeth. If you’re unable to brush and floss after eating sweets, try rinsing your mouth with mouthwash or water or chewing sugar-free gum to help increase saliva flow.

Regular dental checkups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry are another important strategy for maintaining healthy teeth. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can identify and treat any oral health issues before they become more serious problems. We can also provide guidance on how to maintain good oral hygiene and make recommendations on the best foods to eat for healthy teeth.

Enjoying sweets doesn’t have to mean sacrificing healthy teeth. By limiting your sugar intake, choosing sweets that are less harmful to your teeth, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your friendly dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for regular checkups, you can indulge in your favorite Utah treats and still maintain a healthy 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

Our Top Five Great Toothpaste Recommendations

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Our Top Five Great Toothpaste Recommendations

When it comes to maintaining good oral health in Utah, using toothpaste is an essential part of daily dental hygiene.

Toothpaste helps to remove plaque and food particles from teeth, preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. It also freshens your breath which makes for a good starting point for social success.

With so many types of toothpaste available in the Utah market, it can be challenging to decide which one is the best for your specific needs. Let’s take a look at five top toothpastes you can find in our area. These are great toothpastes, and make for a good start to your oral health:

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Mint Toothpaste

Crest Pro-Health Advanced Deep Clean Mint Toothpaste is an excellent choice in  Utah for those looking for a toothpaste that offers multiple benefits. This toothpaste helps prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup while also freshening breath and whitening teeth. The toothpaste contains fluoride, which strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay. The deep clean formula helps to remove stains and leaves teeth feeling clean and smooth.

Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste

If you suffer from tooth sensitivity, Sensodyne Pronamel Gentle Whitening Toothpaste is an excellent option. This toothpaste is specially formulated to protect sensitive teeth and strengthen tooth enamel. The gentle whitening formula helps to remove surface stains, leaving teeth looking brighter and healthier. The toothpaste is also free of harsh abrasives, making it safe to use on sensitive teeth.

Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste

Colgate Total Advanced Deep Clean Toothpaste is another excellent option for those in  Utah looking for a multi-benefit toothpaste. This toothpaste helps to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and plaque buildup while freshening breath and whitening teeth. This one also contains fluoride, which (as we’ve mentioned) helps strengthen your tooth enamel and creates a barrier against tooth decay. This one has some stain removal capabilities and offers a sharp and clean taste that will give you a fresh-breath feel.

Tom’s of Maine Natural Anti-plaque Toothpaste

If you’re looking for a natural toothpaste option, Tom’s of Maine Natural Anti-plaque Toothpaste is an excellent choice. This toothpaste is made with natural ingredients, including zinc citrate, which helps to prevent plaque buildup and freshens breath. The toothpaste is also fluoride-free, making it a good option for those who prefer to avoid fluoride in their oral care products.

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste

Arm & Hammer Advance White Extreme Whitening Toothpaste is a popular option for those looking to brighten their smile. This toothpaste contains baking soda, which helps to remove surface stains and whiten teeth. The toothpaste also contains fluoride, which (we can’t stress enough) strengthens tooth enamel and protects against tooth decay. The minty flavor helps to freshen your breath, leaving your mouth feeling clean and refreshed and ready for your next close social encounter.

Selecting the best toothpaste isn’t the biggest choice you’ll make this week, but it’s essential to choose one that meets your specific needs. The toothpaste listed above are some of the best options available, and each one offers unique benefits to help maintain good oral health.

Regardless, the bottom line is that you need to find a good toothpaste that feels good and encourages you to brush often. A bad-tasting toothpaste, or one that isn’t providing the results you want can result in poor oral health habits, and that’s what we want to avoid.

Remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day with your chosen toothpaste, and schedule regular dental checkups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Orem Area

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Orem Area

Maintaining good oral hygiene in the Orem area is essential to overall health and wellness. Your teeth and gums are the foundation of great personal health.

Most of us in the Orem area brush our teeth twice a day. This is good practice and makes for a good start to your oral health. However, many people overlook the importance of flossing. Flossing is just as important as brushing, if not more so.

Here are four good reasons why flossing your teeth is so important:

Flossing Removes Plaque and Food Particles

Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that forms on teeth and gums. It’s a major cause of tooth decay and gum disease. While brushing can remove some of the plaque from the surface of your teeth, it can’t always reach the areas between your teeth. Flossing is a convenient way to remove plaque and food particles from these hard-to-reach areas.

Flossing Prevents Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. It can eventually lead to tooth loss. Flossing can help prevent gum disease by removing the plaque and food particles that can lead to inflammation and infection. It can also help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

Flossing Reduces Bad Breath

Perhaps most importantly for most of us, flossing can help prevent bad breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and unpleasant. It is often caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce foul-smelling gases. Flossing can help reduce bad breath by removing the food particles and bacteria that can contribute to the problem.

This single benefit alone makes flossing worth the effort, but we have one more big one…

Flossing Saves Money

Flossing is a simple and inexpensive way to prevent more serious oral health problems. By taking care of your teeth and gums through regular flossing, you can avoid expensive dental treatments down the road. This can save you both time and money in the long run.

Come into Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a quick check-up and we can help guide you with a prevention plan that includes regular flossing. We can also recommend useful tools that will help you maintain good oral health within your lifestyle. For example, there are many new products on the market today that make flossing a lot easier and much more convenient.

Flossing is an essential part of good oral hygiene. It can help prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

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 Your Eating Habits Sabotaging Your Oral Health?

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Categories: Dental Health, Teeth cleaning

dental enamel erosion treatment Provo

Most Provo residents know that frequently eating foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Therefore, it’s important to limit candy, soda, cookies, etc. Also, remember that frequency is as dangerous as the amount of sugar.

Research has found that a higher frequency in sugar consumption may lead to demineralization more than the amount of sugar consumed. In other words, eating sugary foods in small amounts on a regular basis can do more harm than eating the occasional sugar-laden dessert. (Healthline)

Tooth Enamel Varies in Density

Before we discuss the issue further, let’s review the miracle substance that protects our teeth: enamel. While enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s not invincible. In fact, it demineralizes (loses some of its density) when it comes in contact with sugar, acids and bacteria.

Let’s explore additional eating habits and how they can affect oral health.

Acid is as Bad as Sugar

First, let’s talk about acids. A plethora of both healthy and unhealthy foods and drinks are acidic. Soda pop and energy drinks are especially harmful because they have sugar and acid, a dangerous combo. Plus, they provide virtually no nutrition. However, you probably don’t want to limit all acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Many acidic foods and beverages are high in Vitamin C and other nutrients.

You can protect your teeth by eating these things as part of a meal to limit the acidic effects. It is a good idea to eat a variety of healthy foods such as chicken, cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will support tooth remineralization.

Meal Timing Makes a Difference

The more frequently you eat the more frequently your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be tempered by deciding on healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat, the more likely you will skip brushing and flossing altogether.

Enamel Erosion

While the enamel is soft, the tooth is susceptible to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the onslaught continues, the much softer dentin underneath is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, you may lose the tooth.

Understand Which Foods are Acidic

Broadly speaking, the typical diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are considerably acidic. We don’t recommend cutting out the healthy foods. We just want you to be aware of them so you can make better choices.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have enamel erosion. Call us to schedule an appointment and Dr. Hammond can examine your teeth and discuss it with you.

Is Your Go-To Beverage Affecting Your Teeth?

Now let’s talk about beverages. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Provo teenagers that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their densest. As mentioned, energy drinks have a multitude of teeth-damaging ingredients. Dentists are noticing the effects of their increasing popularity.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can trigger the remineralization process.

Xylitol Gum

If you choose to chew gum to stimulate saliva production, a good choice is gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually beneficial for your teeth.

Several clinical studies have shown that xylitol prevents the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also helps alleviate plaque and strengthens tooth enamel. Contact us.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Optimum Oral Health Includes Exams and Cleanings

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

oral health Provo

If you’ve ever visited our blog here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, you’ve probably heard the advice to have dental visits and cleanings twice a year. In fact, dental professionals have been advising the twice-yearly frequency for over 50 years. The American Dental Association counsels individuals to visit their dentist twice a year as well.

Is that an arbitrary schedule? Let’s consider the reasons why regular dental check-ups and cleanings are an essential part of preventative dentistry and optimum oral health.

What does your dentist and dental hygienist do during an exam and cleaning?

Look for Signs of Decay

Your dentist has tools that allow him/her to see places in your mouth that would be extremely challenging for you to see. While a cavity usually takes over six months to become serious, your dentist can see the telltale white spots that reveal that a cavity is forming. In the earliest stages, your dentist can stop the progression of a cavity. If a cavity drills into your teeth without you knowing it, it will eventually hit the pulp–Ouch!–and you may need a root canal and a crown. As you might imagine, both are far more expensive than an exam and cleaning. Besides, your dental insurance may cover twice-yearly exams and cleanings at 100%.

Clean Out Your Pockets

If you think dental care is unnecessarily pricey, you might not like this joke. We aren’t talking about your wallet here. We are talking about the gap that forms between your gums and tooth roots when bacteria and plaque build up. It’s not only acute decay that can damage a tooth until it is beyond saving. Gum disease that leads to bone loss is just as dangerous. A buildup of plaque creates pockets of infection between the gums and tooth roots. This leads to periodontitis, gum recession, and eventual bone loss. A professional cleaning removes the plaque before it can cause the gums to loosen.

Check for Oral Cancer

The Oral Cancer Foundation reports this grave stat: oral cancer claims one life every hour—that’s 48,250 deaths a year.1

Clean Plaque and Tartar

Even if you brush and floss your teeth morning and night, plaque can accumulate. We have many patients who are vigilant brushers but are surprised when our hygienist uncovers plaque on their teeth.

Polish Your Teeth

When the hygienist polishes your teeth, it gets rid of the bacteria that allows the plaque to form. If you have , your hygienist can smooth away uneven areas below the gumline where bacteria can flourish. Plus, it feels amazing when you run your tongue over polished teeth!

Oral Health is Physical Health

Your mouth is connected to the rest of the body, but many men and women treat it as a separate entity. Some get regular preventative services for physical conditions but fail to recognize their oral health.

We’ve often wondered about this common disconnect. Did you know that there is compelling evidence to suggest that the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes increases with poor oral health? Besides, your lifestyle is significantly influenced when you have tooth pain, tooth loss, gum disease, or dentures.

Even if you don’t have dental insurance, cleanings and exams are one of the most economical ways to maintain proper oral health.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we are committed to the dental health of all our patients, and it’s a team effort. People from American Fork and Lehi come to us for cosmetic dentistry and the rest of their dental health needs. Call to schedule your next cleaning and checkup 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