The Crucial Role of Preventative Care from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care and Other Insights from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, we believe in the power of proactive dental care to keep our patients smiling confidently for years to come.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental check-ups allow our skilled team to identify potential dental issues in their earliest stages. By detecting problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, we can intervene promptly and effectively, often preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Preservation of Natural Teeth: Preventative care focuses on preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments, we can help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth, reducing the risk of decay and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for keeping gums healthy and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Studies have shown associations between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing preventative dental care, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also promoting your overall health.

Components of Preventative Care

  • Regular Dental Examinations: Comprehensive dental exams allow us to assess your oral health, identify any concerns, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
  • Professional Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health at home. Our team provides personalized oral hygiene instructions and tips for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is Your Partner in Oral Health

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re committed to providing comprehensive preventative care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. By partnering with us and prioritizing preventative dental visits, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and well-being.

Preventative care is the foundation of a healthy smile and a vital component of overall wellness.

By scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, you’re taking proactive steps to preserve your smile and protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and join us on the journey to lifelong oral health and happiness.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Teaching Children to Floss in the Provo, Utah Area

Teaching Children to Floss in the Provo, Utah area with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

In the vibrant area of Provo, Utah, parents often seek ways to instill good dental habits in their children from a young age.

One crucial aspect of oral hygiene that can sometimes be overlooked is flossing.

While brushing is widely understood, teaching children to floss effectively is equally important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand the significance of early dental education. Here’s why and how we encourage parents to teach their children to floss…

Why Teach Children to Floss:

Prevention of Decay: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line, preventing the formation of cavities and decay. By teaching children to floss regularly, parents can help them maintain healthy smiles for years to come.

Gum Health: Flossing isn’t just about keeping teeth clean; it’s also essential for gum health. Regular flossing helps prevent gum disease by removing bacteria and debris that can lead to inflammation and infection.

Establishing Lifelong Habits: Teaching children to floss at a young age establishes good oral hygiene habits that they can carry into adulthood. By starting early, parents set their children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles and fewer dental problems.

How to Teach Children to Floss:

Lead by Example: Children often learn best by watching and imitating their parents. Parents can demonstrate proper flossing techniques and make it a part of their daily oral hygiene routine.

Make it Fun: Flossing doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be made into a fun and interactive activity. Parents can use colorful flossers or flavored floss to make the experience more enjoyable for children.

Supervise and Assist: Until children develop the dexterity to floss independently, parents should supervise and assist them with flossing. This ensures that they use the correct technique and effectively reach all areas of their mouths.

Offer Positive Reinforcement: Praise and encourage children for their efforts in flossing. Positive reinforcement reinforces good behavior and motivates children to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits.

Be Patient and Persistent: Like any skill, learning to floss takes time and practice. Parents should be patient with their children and emphasize the importance of flossing as part of their daily routine.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in the power of early dental education and the importance of teaching children to floss. Our team is dedicated to providing parents in the Provo, Utah area with the guidance and support they need to instill good oral hygiene habits in their children from a young age.

By teaching children to floss effectively, parents can help them achieve and maintain sparkling smiles for life.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

385-375-3715

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Look Younger By Straightening Your Teeth

invisible braces for adults Provo

Today’s message is for men and women in their golden years who want to improve their smile by straightening their teeth.

There are many advantages to retirement. Waking up whenever you dang well please. Time to devote to your favorite hobbies or humanitarian causes. Traveling. Grandchildren.

Braces Aren’t Just For Teens

It’s not all a picnic, however. Many older people have health dilemmas, limited mobility, and financial concerns. Though some conditions can’t be avoided, others can. Crooked teeth, for instance.

Could Your Smile Benefit From Adult Braces?

Orthodontics can fix all types of tooth alignment dilemmas. Overbite? The gap between your two front teeth? Crowded teeth?

With modern orthodontics at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, older people can have a fantastic smile that looks as young as they feel.

Let’s discuss some orthodontic options.

Self-ligating Braces

Traditional braces have brackets and an archwire. The brackets are mounted to the teeth and the archwire is attached to the brackets. With self-ligating braces, the archwire is connected to the brackets with a spring clip. This replaces the plastic color band necessary with conventional metal braces.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear aligners instead of metal or ceramic brackets. With Invisalign aligners, you switch aligners every couple of weeks as your teeth gently shift into place.

How can straightening crooked teeth benefit you in your golden years?

We all know that a beautiful smile improves one’s appearance. Everyone wants to look more attractive. However, the benefits aren’t purely aesthetic.

  • You are less likely to snore if your teeth are aligned properly
  • They feel good when you rub your tongue over them!
  • You are less likely to experience gingivitis (gum disease)
  • Straight teeth can prohibit cavities
  • You are less likely to feel tooth pain due to displacement or misalignment

Braces + Tooth Implants for a Complete Smile Makeover

Regardless of your age, it is not too late to improve your smile–even if you have some missing teeth. Braces combined with dental implants can transform a smile.

If you would like to discuss teeth straightening, I invite you to schedule an adult braces consultation by calling 801-374-0070.

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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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


Don’t Put Off Your Dental Exam

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No matter what age you are, as long as you have teeth, dental exams are an important part of keeping your smile healthy and beautiful! We urge all our patients to see Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, their dentist in Provo, every six months.

We have an excellent office and caring team of professionals to make your exams something you’ll look forward to.

Knowledge is Power
Dental exams are often put off because they can be seen as unnecessary. But exams are truly one of the best practices for preventative care. At each check up, our experienced and well trained hygienists will thoroughly clean your teeth.

Once they are polished sparkling clean, your teeth will receive a comprehensive analysis. They will be inspected for cavities, gum recession, excessive wear, or other risks. Catching these types of threats early is indispensable so you can be certain that they don’t turn into larger issues.

Innovative Dental Technology
Technology is moving swiftly, so it’s vital to find a dental office that has the latest instruments to ensure your check up is detailed and comprehensive. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we have state-of-the-art technology that is used for your exams. If a problem is detected, an appropriate, individualized treatment plan will be designed.

Peace of Mind
After your entire mouth has been examined, we will detail what is necessary moving forward. Whether that’s flossing more often or discussing major fixes such as braces, we will make sure that you get all the information you need to ensure your smile is bright and beautiful! At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your dentist in Provo, 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

 

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5 Reasons To Schedule A Dental Cleaning Today

professional dental cleaning Orem

Having your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist is always a good idea, but the benefits go beyond that great clean feeling you have afterward. At Hammond General and Aesthetic Dentistry in Provo, we’ve got five excellent reasons.

1. Protect Your Gums

It’s not only cavities that can damage a tooth until it is beyond saving. Gum disease that leads to bone loss is just as detrimental. Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque that creates pockets of infection between the gums and tooth roots. This leads to periodontitis, gum recession, and eventual bone loss. A professional cleaning eliminates the plaque before it can cause the gums to loosen.

2. Prevent Cavities

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

3. Check for Oral Cancer

The Oral Cancer Foundation relates this grave news: oral cancer claims one life approximately every hour—that’s 48,250 deaths a year. We screen you at each visit.1

4. Oral Health and Overall Health Go Hand in Hand

Your mouth is not a separate entity from the rest of the body, but many individuals treat it that way. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’ve often wondered about this persistent disconnect. Did you know there is compelling evidence to suggest that the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes increases with poor oral health?

5. It May Be Free

Many Utah dental insurance plans cover biannual dental cleanings. Even if you don’t have dental insurance, cleanings are one of the most competitively priced ways to maintain prime oral health.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we provide our patients with a wide range of services, including cosmetic and family dentistry. Schedule a professional dental cleaning with us; you’ll be glad you did.

1http://oralcancerfoundation.org/facts/

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604