General Dentistry

Use Flex Account Funds For Dental Care in Provo

Posted on
Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health, General Dentistry

Use Flex Account Funds for Provo Dentistry If you have money in your Provo flexible spending account you may want to schedule some cosmetic dentistry before the deadline. Remember, you lose any funds left over after the plan year ends. Why not improve your smile with tax-free dollars?

Even a small change can make a big difference in the appearance of your teeth. You might consider getting a veneer for a chipped tooth or replacing a broken crown. Maybe you want to straighten your teeth with braces or replace amalgam fillings with ones that blend with your natural teeth. Tooth whitening is quick and easy and benefits even the most attractive smiles.

Perhaps aesthetic dentistry is not your first priority. Maybe you have a more pressing dental need such as a cavity that is bothering you or swollen gums. Don’t let these problems get worse and possibly more expensive to treat.

Call 801-374-0070 to book a consultation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We are located at 3575 N 100 E Ste 200.

Dr. Chris Hammond is one of the most sought-after Provo dentists and stays at the forefront of cosmetic dentistry techniques and technology. A radiant smile is possible for anyone in the Orem area, regardless of issues such as tetracycline stains, periodontal disease, or missing teeth.

If you are planning to use flex account funds for Orem dentistry, make sure you check your employer’s guidelines for eligible cosmetic or restorative dental procedures.

With a smile makeover at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, what will your “after” photo look like?

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Ditch the DIY Dental With Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Ditch the DIY Dental With in Provo Utah

The internet is a treasure trove of information, but when it comes to your oral health, not everything you read online is accurate or safe.

While it might be tempting to try home remedies for dental issues, visiting a qualified dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah is the only way to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why DIY Dental Doesn’t Cut It

  • Misinformation: The internet is rife with misinformation, and what might seem like a harmless home remedy could actually cause more harm than good.
  • Incorrect Diagnosis: Without a professional examination, it’s easy to misdiagnose dental problems. This can lead to ineffective or even dangerous treatments.
  • Delayed Treatment: Attempting home remedies can delay seeking professional care, allowing dental issues to worsen.
  • Damage to Teeth and Gums: Some DIY methods can cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.
  • Overlooking Underlying Issues: Home remedies often address symptoms, not the root cause of the problem. A dentist can identify and treat underlying conditions.

Your Trusted Dental Experts at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

  • Accurate Diagnosis: Our experienced dentists have the training and expertise to accurately diagnose dental problems.
  • Comprehensive Treatment: We offer a wide range of treatments tailored to your specific needs.
  • Preventive Care: Regular checkups help prevent dental issues before they become serious.
  • Personalized Advice: Our dentists provide personalized oral hygiene recommendations.
  • Safe and Effective Treatments: Our dental treatments are safe and backed by scientific research.

Remember, your oral health is too important to gamble with.

While the internet can be a valuable resource for general information, always consult a dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for professional advice and treatment.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Combat Bad Breath Foods with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Combat Bad Breath Foods with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a social and confidence killer.

While it’s often linked to poor oral hygiene, certain foods are notorious for contributing to this unpleasant issue. Here’s a breakdown of some of the worst culprits and how Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah can help.

Culinary staples such as garlic and onions are often the first foods to come to mind when discussing bad breath. Their potent odor-causing compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled in your breath. Enjoying these foods is certainly on the healthy side of your culinary experience, but you’ll want to brush often if close and personal is on your list.

Popular beverages including coffee and alcohol can dry out your mouth, reducing saliva production. Saliva helps wash away bacteria, so a dry mouth environment can lead to bad breath. This creates a bit of a problem as you drink more to replace moisture. Keep plenty of water on your hands and supplement sips with good clean hydration.

Excessive consumption of meat can cause a build-up of sulfur compounds in the body, contributing to bad breath. Most meats contain a high level of sulfur, so reach for your animal proteins sparingly.

Cheesy and starchy foods can linger in your teeth, providing a breeding ground for bacteria. Cheeses come with pungent aromas, and those can transfer to your breath if you don’t clean up after a visit to the charcuterie board.

While not the most direct cause of bad breath, sugary foods contribute to tooth decay and gum disease, both of which can lead to bad breath. Watch for foods with high levels of sugar including unusual suspects such as popcorn and fruit juices.

What Can Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry Do

While it’s essential to be mindful of your diet, regular dental checkups and cleanings at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry are crucial for maintaining fresh breath. Our dental professionals can:

  • Identify and treat underlying dental issues like gum disease or cavities.
  • Provide personalized oral hygiene recommendations.
  • Offer professional teeth cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
  • Help you create a healthy, breath-supporting diet.

Remember, persistent bad breath might indicate an underlying health issue.

If home remedies and good oral hygiene aren’t improving your breath, schedule an appointment with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a comprehensive evaluation.

 

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 Quarterly Dental Checkups Are Essential in Provo, Utah

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Why Quarterly Dental Checkups Are Essential in Provo, Utah

While the standard recommendation is often twice a year at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, there are compelling reasons why more frequent dental visits, specifically every quarter, can significantly benefit your oral health.

Let’s delve into the top ten reasons:

Early Detection of Issues: Regular checkups allow your dentist to spot potential problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer in their earliest stages when treatment is simpler and less invasive.

Preventive Care: Quarterly cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease. Your dentist can also provide personalized oral hygiene tips.

Monitoring Oral Health Changes: For individuals with specific conditions like diabetes, pregnancy, or orthodontic treatment, more frequent checkups are crucial to monitor oral health changes and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Customizable Treatment Plans: With more frequent visits, your dentist can tailor treatment plans to your specific needs, ensuring optimal oral health outcomes.

Addressing Concerns Promptly: If you have concerns about your oral health, such as sensitivity, bad breath, or jaw pain, quarterly checkups provide opportunities to address them promptly.

Maintaining Dental Work: Regular inspections help identify any issues with fillings, crowns, or other dental restorations, allowing for timely repairs.

Oral Cancer Screening: Frequent checkups increase the chances of detecting oral cancer early when treatment is most effective.

Bite Alignment Monitoring: For those with bite issues or orthodontic appliances, quarterly checkups ensure proper alignment and bite function.

Professional Teeth Cleaning: Even with diligent at-home care, professional cleanings every three months remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup.

Building a Strong Dental Relationship: Regular visits foster a strong relationship with your dentist, leading to better communication, trust, and overall dental care.

While not everyone may require quarterly dental visits, it’s a proactive approach that offers numerous advantages. Consult with your dentist to determine the optimal checkup frequency for your specific oral health needs.

Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Regular dental checkups are a cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and overall well-being.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Unexplained Headaches Or Jaw Pain in Provo?

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

unexplained jaw pain

Hello! I’m Chris Hammond, DDS, of Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. I have been practicing quality general and cosmetic dentistry for many years. Today’s post focuses on malocclusion or bad bite.

Malocclusion is the dental term for a problem in the way your top and bottom teeth come together. The ideal bite is when the upper teeth are slightly forward of the lower teeth. You have probably heard of “overbites” and “underbites” but the two arches can be misaligned in many other ways as well. Crowded teeth can also cause a bad bite, as well as the opposite situation – teeth that are too far apart.

If the misalignment is very slight, there are often no related issues. However, if the malocclusion is moderate to severe, the patient is at risk for many other health issues such as difficulty chewing and speaking, headaches, hearing problems, increased decay, jaw pain, and gum disease.

The domino effect of these problems can get pretty serious. For example, chewing difficulty can trigger ulcers and gum disease increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Consider also how these problems can impact a patient’s emotional well-being and ability to perform their job.

Putting health issues aside, these problems can get pretty costly to treat.

There are several effective treatments for malocclusion, but first, you need a diagnosis. If you suspect that you have a misaligned bite, I hope this post has given you some good reasons to speak 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

How Is Snoring Different From Sleep Apnea?

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

sleep apnea dentist Provo

It’s estimated that 50% of people snore at some point during their life.

Sleep apnea is a more serious, but also common sleep disorder. Snoring and sleep apnea are related. Many people who snore also have sleep apnea. However, the conditions are not always present together. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can determine if your sleep apnea is related to your oral health in Provo.

Why Is Sleep Apnea So Dangerous?

Snoring alone doesn’t cause breathing to stop. People who suffer from sleep apnea actually stop breathing. This can happen many times during the night. When the brain is deprived of oxygen—not surprisingly—serious problems can occur. Even death.

Sleep apnea sufferers are at risk for heart problems including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. They are also at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

One of the most common problems is daytime fatigue. This makes ordinary activities overwhelming. Untreated sleep apnea lowers the quality of life.

Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect the person with the condition. Their bed partner is also deprived of restorative sleep and, as such, is at risk of health complications.

Wondering if your health issues are a result of sleep apnea?

If you suffer from daytime sleepiness, or your partner says you stop breathing temporarily during sleep, see your doctor right away. If you want to start out with a specialist, ask your primary doctor for a recommendation. In the U.S., the American Board of Sleep Medicine certifies physicians who treat sleep disorders.

Your doctor will diagnose whether you have sleep apnea and which of the three types you have. This may require a visit to a sleep disorder clinic.

If your physician diagnoses your condition as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, don’t assume that there is only one treatment.

Sleep apnea can be treated with an oral appliance, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or surgery.

If your medical doctor believes you are a candidate for a dental appliance, consult a dentist who specializes in the treatment of sleep disorders.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Affordable One-Visit Tooth Fix in Provo, UT

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

affordable fix for chipped tooth Orem

Some Provo, UT people are unhappy with the way their teeth look but many mistakenly assume that cosmetic dentistry is far too expensive to pursue. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we fix teeth quickly.

Sure, a complete mouth reconstruction can be an expensive investment. Consider the cost of dental school and post-graduate training for a master-level cosmetic dentist. Consider the expense of individually creating multiple restorations at a high-tech dental lab. Consider the cost of setting up and maintaining a full-service dental practice or laboratory.

Before you give up on improving your smile, however, think about a less celebrated but extremely effective and cost-effective cosmetic dental remedy: dental bonding.

Dental bonding has a wide range of applications for unappealing teeth. Bonding can correct a tooth that is damaged, chipped, short, or discolored. It can also repair teeth that have gaps in between them.

How does the dental bonding procedure work?

First, your tooth will be slightly (but painlessly) roughed up to help the resin adhere. Your dentist will use a shade guide to determine the precise color of the composite to match the existing teeth. Your dentist will apply liquid composite resin on the tooth, layer by layer. He or she will carefully shape and polish it before it hardens. The tooth is then covered with a conditioning liquid that helps with adhesion.

Once the resin is bonded, it is further molded to the accurate shape for your bite and appearance. A laser helps rapidly bond the resin in place as it hardens. Further shaping and polishing, if required, complete the procedure. The result is a beautiful smile.

We invite you to meet the fantastic team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We are proud of our venerable reputation for critical personalized attention and first-rate care. Our caring team can answer any questions you have about our top services: sedation dentistry, Invisalign, and mini implants.

We are now accepting new patients and 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

The Sweet Truth of How Sugary Treats Impact Your Smile in the Provo, Utah Area

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

The Sweet Truth of How Sugary Treats Impact Your Smile in the Provo, Utah Area

We all love a sweet treat now and then. Whether it’s a celebratory slice of cake or a post-dinner indulgence, sugary foods are a part of life. But what happens to our teeth after we indulge? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Utah, we see the effects of sugary treats on smiles every day.

The not-so-secret culprit behind sugar’s impact is the bacteria naturally present in our mouths. These bacteria feed on sugar particles, leaving behind an acidic byproduct. This acid erodes tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth.

Think of enamel as your teeth shield. When weakened by acid, this shield becomes vulnerable. Over time, this erosion can lead to cavities, those pesky holes that cause pain and sensitivity.

Here’s a breakdown of how sugary treats can affect your smile:

  • Frequency: Occasional treats are less damaging than a constant stream of sugar.
  • Form: Sticky candies and sugary drinks linger in the mouth longer, giving bacteria more time to produce acid.
  • Overall Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium helps strengthen teeth and counteract the effects of sugar.

So, does this mean you have to ditch dessert forever? Not necessarily! Here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in a balanced approach to oral health.

Here are some tips to enjoy your treats without sacrificing your smile:

  • Limit sugary treats: Make them a special occasion, not an everyday occurrence.
  • Choose wisely: Opt for treats that dissolve quickly, like cookies, over sticky candies.
  • Drink water: Water washes away sugar particles and helps neutralize harmful acids.
  • Brush and floss regularly: Good oral hygiene removes plaque and bacteria before they can cause damage.
  • Schedule regular dental checkups: Early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent more serious problems.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, happy smile.

Contact us today to schedule your next checkup and discuss personalized strategies for keeping sugar in check!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

47% of Adults Have Gum Disease: Are You One of Them in Provo?

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

gum disease treatment Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we want our dental patients to be aware of the threat of gum disease. A recent CDC report provides the following data related to the prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.:

  • 47.2% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
  • Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of people 65 years and older have periodontal disease.
  • This condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4%), those living below the federal poverty level (65.4%), those with less than a high school education (66.9%), and current smokers (64.2%)

What is the cause of gum disease?

Bacteria is always present in your mouth. When you don’t clean it away with brushing and flossing, it causes inflammation. The gums around and between teeth become inflamed.

The film of bacteria first turns to plaque. The plaque is fairly soft. Dental hygienists can remove plaque when they perform a professional dental cleaning.

If the plaque is not cleaned away, it hardens to tartar or calculus.

Tartar build-up can spread below the gum line, which makes the teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease process. 

You can reverse gum disease

The good news? Brushing and flossing can get rid of bacteria before it turn into plaque! Therefore, in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed.

Let’s consider how to floss:

  • Cut a length of floss about 18 inches long.
  • Securely wind each end around your middle fingers.
  • Take hold of the floss with your forefinger and thumb leaving about two inches to work with.
  • Thread the floss between two teeth.
  • Hold the floss tightly against the side of the tooth and move it up and away from the gumline. You want to clean the space between the tooth and gum without pulling more gum tissue away, so it’s important to scrape up and out of the pocket.
  • Move the floss around the tooth to clean every surface—especially those that your brush can’t reach. As you use a section of floss, unwind from one hand to access a clean piece. With 18 inches, you should have enough to provide a clean section for every tooth. If you run out, that’s okay. Just toss the used piece and cut a new one.

Some individuals find it easier to start on one end of the upper teeth and clean each gap one by one until they reach the end on the opposite side. Then repeat for the bottom row. Whatever system you decide on, make sure you clean around every tooth, including the back surfaces of the last molars.

Regular checkups and dental cleanings help prevent gum disease. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are taking new patients. Give us a call the request an appointment.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting in Provo, Utah

Posted on
Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

Cheek-biting is a common dental concern that can cause discomfort and lead to oral health issues if left unaddressed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, we recognize the importance of understanding and addressing this issue to ensure our patients’ overall oral well-being.

What is Cheek-Biting?

Cheek-biting, also known as cheek chewing or morsicatio buccarum, occurs when individuals inadvertently bite the inside of their cheeks. This habit can be triggered by stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or habitual behaviors, such as chewing on pens or pencils. It can also be accidental based on chewing speed or a reaction to food shape or texture.

Effects of Cheek-Biting

Cheek-biting can lead to various dental and oral health problems, including:

Soft Tissue Damage: Repeated biting can cause injuries to the delicate lining of the cheeks, resulting in pain, inflammation, and the formation of mouth sores.

Chronic Discomfort: Persistent cheek-biting may lead to chronic discomfort and interfere with eating, speaking, and other daily activities.

Increased Risk of Infection: Injured tissues are more susceptible to infection, which can further exacerbate discomfort and compromise oral health.

Addressing Cheek-Biting

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer personalized solutions to help patients overcome cheek-biting habits and mitigate their effects:

Behavioral Modification: Our team works closely with patients to identify triggers and develop strategies to modify behaviors contributing to cheek-biting, such as stress management techniques or oral habit awareness exercises.

Orthodontic Evaluation: Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to cheek-biting. We conduct comprehensive orthodontic evaluations to assess the alignment of teeth and jaws and recommend appropriate treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, to correct underlying issues.

Protective Measures: In cases where cheek-biting is primarily nocturnal or subconscious, we may recommend the use of custom-made mouthguards or dental appliances to provide a protective barrier and prevent further injury to the cheeks.

Preventive Measures

While addressing cheek-biting habits is essential, practicing preventive measures can also help minimize its occurrence:

Stress Management: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or relaxation exercises, can help alleviate anxiety-related triggers for cheek-biting. In some cases, just slow down a bit.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent complications associated with cheek-biting, such as infection or inflammation.

Cheek-biting can have detrimental effects on oral health and quality of life, but with proactive intervention and preventive measures, it can be effectively managed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive care and personalized solutions to help our patients achieve optimal oral health and well-being. If you or a loved one are experiencing issues related to cheek-biting, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to explore treatment options and regain comfort and confidence in your 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