Dental Health

Why A Water Flosser Might Be A Good Idea

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Provo should I use waterpik?

Water flossers have been around for more than fifty years, and there have been at least that many studies on their effectiveness. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we’re using this space to present what is known about water flossers, and whether they’re better than ordinary string floss in preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues.

Dental Floss

First of all, the main benefit of standard dental floss – string floss – is that it passes easily between the teeth to remove food debris and plaque. It is easy to use, inexpensive, readily available, and a very efficient way of removing plaque.

On the down side, some people find it hard to reach certain areas of the mouth, like way in back. It can cause minor bleeding, and gum sensitivity. People with agility issues may find it hard to use.

Water Flossing

Water flossers use pulsing water to clean between teeth and along the gum line. A special machine directs a jet spray that can be very effective. They too are easy to use, and in addition to cleaning your teeth can also massage the gums.

They’re great for people with braces and other dental work. The stream of pulsing water makes it easy to get those areas that are harder to reach with string floss. They are also an excellent solution for people with issues like arthritis.

On the other hand, water flossers can be expensive. You need to find a place to store them when not in use. And they require electricity.

The Bottom Line

It isn’t necessarily an either/or situation. The best dental health routine at home may well be to floss, brush, and water floss – not necessarily in that order. The sequence in which these are done comes down to your personal preference. To put it another way: whatever works!

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we think the most important thing, by far, is that you establish a dental health routine that you practice every day. People from American Fork and Lehi come to our office for regular checkups. We offer general and cosmetic dentistry. Contact 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 Many Advantages of Dental Implants

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Implants

implant dentures Provo

If you’re among the millions of Americans who have lost one of their natural teeth, dental implants from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT are an ideal solution.

Dental implants have many advantages over other tooth-replacement options. One of the biggest advantages is that implants not only support lifelike artificial teeth, they support the health of the jaw bone itself.

What Is A Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium post that is placed into your jaw, where inside of a few months’ time it fuses with the bone itself.

Implants may go in the upper or lower jaw. One implant can support one artificial tooth, and several of them can support a dental bridge, or even a full dental arch.

An unfortunate consequence of losing teeth is that the bone around the lost tooth begins to recede. This can result in a sunken appearance in the face. But because implants are physically attached to the bone they function like a tooth root to stimulate growth and prevent the loss of bone mass.

Advanced Technology

Dental implants don’t affect the surrounding teeth, either. In the case of a bridge, for example, each neighboring tooth must be ground into shape in order to accommodate the bridge. Also, with a bridge, the bone will deteriorate.

Dental implants from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT are among the most advanced technology modern dentistry has to offer. We’ve placed them in patients from American Fork and Lehi, who also come to our office for cosmetic dentistry. Contact 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 8680

Relax In Comfort And Style At Hammond Aesthetic

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Lehi cosmetic dental and tooth implants

On this blog post from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we want to talk about an often-overlooked feature in practices: the modern dental chair. Did you know that dental chairs don’t come from your local furniture store?

Dental chairs were designed especially for the comfort of patient and dental provider alike. At our practice, we take advantage of advanced ergonomics and top-of-the-line comfort technology to bring you an experience like no other. You’ll be amazed with the recent innovations in seat technology.

Our chairs offer fully adjustable seats and are lined with comfortable, sturdy materials that mold to your weight and shape. It really feels like you’re floating! The cushioned seats allow us to treat our patients easily, while also ensuring your comfort.

The last place you want to feel discomfort is at a dental visit. It can already be stressful to deal with a dental problem; a bumpy, uncomfortable seat is like adding fuel to that fire.

In addition to a comfortable seat, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT boasts a professional dental team that is trained in direct patient communication and is ready to answer any questions you might have. Whether you need general dentistry for dental maintenance, cosmetic dentistry for aesthetic problems, or dental implants for tooth replacement, take a seat! Your dental assistant will see you shortly. Patients from American Fork and Lehi visit us every day. Contact 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 5524

5 Tips For Treating Mouth Sores

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

Prevent Mouth Sores Utah County

When people get mouth sores, one of the things they can do while waiting for it to heal is evaluate what they’re eating and make some changes. Here are some tips from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT that can help minimize the discomfort of eating and help to increase the speed of healing.

  • Eat Soft or Pureed Foods: Don’t worry, you won’t have to eat baby food. Plenty of adult dishes fit the bill. Yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies are good choices.
  • Keep Your Meals Bland: It might make for boring eats, but watch out for overly spicy, tart, salty or acidic foods while you have a mouth sore.
  • Keep It Cool: Only eat meals served at room temperature or chilled.
  • Use a Straw: This way, whatever you are drinking can avoid contact with the mouth sore altogether.
  • Moisten Dry Foods: You can add sauces, dressings, and gravies to your meals.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, our specialty is dental health. We offer complete general and cosmetic dentistry. People from American Fork and Lehi also come to our practice for dental implants. Contact 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

We Understand Dental Anxiety

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Sedation Dentistry

sedation dentistry Provo

If you tense up just thinking about going to the dentist, you may benefit from sedation dentistry offered by Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT.

Millions of Americans stress out when they have to see the dentist. It is referred to as dental anxiety. There is a more severe form, too, called dental phobia. In both, some people would rather skip the dentist altogether; rather than sit down for a checkup. The problem with that, of course, is it puts their dental health at risk.

There are lots of reasons why people develop anxiety or phobia over dental care. It often stems from a bad experience they had with a dentist as a kid. Fear of pain may be involved, as well as a fear of anesthesia and its possible side effects.

Whatever the cause, sedation dentistry has helped millions of people get through their appointments.

We offer three types:

  • Nitrous Oxide: You also know this as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide has been used in dentistry for more than a century and is highly effective.
  • Oral Conscious Sedation: You take a sedative an hour or so before the appointment. You won’t sleep, but will be in a deeply relaxed state. When the appointment is over, someone will have to drive you home.
  • IV Sedation: As the name suggests, this is a sedative that is administered intravenously. You won’t sleep with this, either, but will be in a deeply relaxed state. You’ll need an escort for a ride here and back.

Remember, it is essential that you do not compromise your dental health by skipping the dentist. Sedation dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT may be just what you need. People throughout American Fork and Lehi come to us for complete general dentistry. Contact 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 8615

Why Trust Your Smile to Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Provoaffordable cosmetic dentistry

Good dental health means having healthy teeth and gums. Maintaining it is something that you have to work at every day. It can be a real balancing act: using the right oral care products, your personal oral care habits, and seeing us at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT twice a year.

Your dental health strategy should include:

  • Daily Brushing and Flossing: You should brush and floss twice a day. Just before bedtime is especially important, because it cleans out the germs and plaque that build up during the course of the day.
  • Proper Brushing: It’s important not only to brush, but to brush properly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush in a gentle, circular motion along the gum line. Take your time; a minimum of two minutes is recommended. Don’t forget to brush your tongue!
  • Using Fluoridated Toothpaste: There are dozens of choices when it comes to toothpaste. Whether you prefer mint flavored or bubble gum, fluoride is the most important consideration. It is your best defense against cavities.
  • Limiting Sugary and Acidic Foods: Acidic fruits, teas, and coffee contributes to enamel erosion. Sugar converts into acid when it’s in your mouth. You don’t have to avoid these foods entirely, but choose carefully and minimize.
  • Seeing the Dentist Twice a Year: Your daily dental health care habits are essential, but so is the attention and care of a dentist. A professional teeth cleaning alone is worth the trip, but we can also identify issues before they become serious, and treat them.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we are humbled that people from American Fork and Lehi trust us with their smiles. Our services include general and cosmetic dentistry. Contact 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 8574

What You Need To Know About Oral Cancer

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Provo oral cancer screening

Checkups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT include a screening for oral cancer. Oral cancer refers to cancers in the tongue, mouth, lips, jaw, and throat. The conditions is pretty much about as serious as it gets; this is why we prioritize it at our practice so much. The American Cancer Society estimates that over 39,000 people will be diagnosed with it this year.

Consider this sobering news from the Oral Cancer Foundation:

“The death rate for oral cancer is higher than that of cancers which we hear about routinely such as cervical cancer, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, laryngeal cancer, cancer of the testes, and endocrine system cancers such as thyroid, or skin cancer (malignant melanoma).”

The main risk factor for oral cancer is tobacco use. This includes all forms, not just cigarettes. Those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol are also at higher-than-average risk, as are those with HPV.

Early detection can make a difference in treatment outcomes. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we understand how important oral cancer screenings can be. Patients from American Fork and Lehi come to our office for general and cosmetic dentistry. Contact 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 6804

There Is Hope For Denture Wearers

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Implants, Restorative Dentistry

Utah County tooth implants

The condition of your teeth has a big impact on your quality of life. Denture wearers understand this all too well. Now there is a better option than conventional dentures: implant-supported dentures from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT.

Conventional dentures rest against the gums. They can irritate soft tissue, and make breathing, eating, tasting food, talking, and laughing difficult. Imagine dentures that are attached to the jaw, almost like natural teeth. Sound too good to be true?

Implant-supported dentures are already worn successfully by hundreds of thousands of people. A dental implant is a titanium post that is placed in the jaw, where it fuses with the bone. One implant can support a single artificial tooth, while multiple posts can support a full dental arch.

Implant-supported dentures have a number of advantages over traditional dentures.

  • Increased Stability: Because they are attached to titanium posts that have fused with the jaw, people have much greater biting and chewing power.
  • Natural Appearance: They look more like natural teeth, and are easier to care for.
  • Durability: Because they are physically attached to the jaw, implants are long-lasting.
  • A Lack of Bone Recession: With traditional dentures, the bone around missing tooth roots begin to deteriorate. The titanium posts replace some of the tooth roots, so the bone is preserved.

Implant-supported dentures can transform your life. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT has placed them in patients from American Fork and Lehi, who also come to us for cosmetic dentistry options. Contact 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 6844

The Five Stages Of A Cavity

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

stages of a cavity Provo

In this message from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we discuss something about cavities you might not know. You may have heard that once tooth enamel is eroded, it’s gone forever. This is not entirely true. In the earliest stage of enamel erosion, a cavity can be reversed.

There are five main stages to cavities. Our team has listed them below to keep you informed.

Stage 1: Attack of the Little White Spots
Reversible: Yes

The tooth begins to show signs of damage. White spots appear. They are under the surface of the enamel, but you can see them from the outside. Demineralization will result in these spots. When they occur in children’s molars, it can be easy for parents to miss them. That’s why daily dental hygiene and regular dental exams are crucial. At this stage, it’s possible to halt a cavity before it needs a filling. Dental hygiene can stop the erosion. Fluoride can remineralize the enamel.

Stage 2: Enamel Decay
Reversible: No, but the tooth can probably be saved

Did you know that tooth decay begins under the surface of the enamel? The visible enamel is intact for the first part of Stage 2. Then the hole busts through the surface.

Stage 3: Going Deeper Into the Dentin
Reversible: No, but if you act fast, the tooth might not need a root canal.

The decay breaks down the enamel and hits the soft dentin layer that lies below. This is an advanced cavity. The good news? The decay hasn’t yet reached the pulp. It will, however, start to cause pain.

Stage 4: The Decay Hits the Pulp
Reversible: No. Must be treated with a root canal.

Hopefully, no patient will ever suffer this stage. It is very painful. The infection has reached the pulp where the nerves are located. Unfortunately, a root canal is the only treatment option. Unless, of course, the tooth is extracted.

Stage 5: Abscess Distress
Reversible: No, and it can be life-threatening.

The decay and infection have traveled through the pulp and out the end. In the final stage, the infection drills through the tip, after which it reaches the tissue and bone, surrounding the tooth root. The area swells up and it’s exceptionally painful. It’s also hazardous for anyone’s health. This is a serious infection that can spread to other parts of the body. Abscesses originating in a tooth can be fatal.

Protect yourself and your loved ones from tooth decay so you all have a healthy smile for life. Patients from throughout American Fork and Lehi come to Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT for general and cosmetic dentistry. Contact 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 8247

Don’t Like Dental Visits? Go Anyway.

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Helping Provo Love Dental Visits

It’s no secret that many dread going to the dentist. Whether they associate dental visits with shame, pain, or financial drain, they avoid it at all costs. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we encourage all our patients to see their dentist regularly. This way, you can prevent more uncomfortable dental procedures, like fillings and root canals.

Though it sounds backwards, the truth is that you protect against dental pain by seeing your dentist regularly–even if you hate dental visits!

If you have naturally healthy teeth, you may not realize your amazing good fortune. After all, you can eat whatever you want. You aren’t self-conscious about stained, chipped, or missing teeth. Tooth pain doesn’t interrupt your sleep.

Lucky individuals with great teeth may do fine with limited dental treatment in their twenties and thirties. What we’ve observed, though, is that, eventually, avoiding exams and cleanings catches up with you.

This is especially true for individuals with dental risk factors. These include smoking, recreational drug use, severe alcohol consumption, inadequate oral hygiene, teeth grinding, poor eating habits or crooked teeth.

Notice that some of these things are a conscious choice, and others, like crooked teeth or teeth grinding, may be unavoidable. Regardless, most people who forego dental exams and cleanings eventually experience oral problems.

The first thing that may come to your mind is cavities. While this is an issue for some middle-aged people, it’s actually not the most frequent dental condition. Gum disease earns the dubious honor as the top cause of tooth loss in U.S. adults.

If you have neglected your oral care needs, we invite you to make an appointment at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT. We specialize in general dentistry and oral care. Patients from American Fork and Lehi also come to us for dental implants. Contact 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 8686