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Taking Charge of Your Oral Health in 2026

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The calendar has flipped, the holiday decorations are packed away, and 2026 is officially here. While many people are busy setting resolutions about gym memberships or reading lists, there is one area that often gets overlooked but deserves just as much attention: your smile. Your oral health is a critical part of your overall well-being, and there is no better time than the start of a new year to hit the reset button on your dental habits.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we believe that a healthy smile is the foundation for a confident life. Dr. Chris Hammond and our entire team have been proudly serving our neighbors in Provo, Orem, and Utah County since 1996. For three decades, we have helped patients understand the incredible value of long-term oral health. This year, we want to help you get started on the right path.

Why the New Year is the Perfect Starting Line

The new year offers a fresh start, making it the perfect time to prioritize oral health, set goals, and establish habits for a brighter, healthier smile

It’s easy to let dental appointments slide during the busy holiday season. Between travel, parties, and endless to-do lists, scheduling a cleaning isn’t always a priority. However, January offers a clean slate.

Many dental insurance plans reset their benefits on January 1st. This means you have a fresh pool of resources to cover essential preventative care like exams and cleanings. Utilizing these benefits early in the year prevents a mad rush in December and ensures that any small issues are caught before they become expensive problems. Prioritizing your teeth now sets a positive tone for the rest of 2026.

Habits for a Healthier Smile

Taking charge of your oral health doesn’t require a massive lifestyle overhaul. Small, consistent changes often yield the best results. Here are a few actionable habits to adopt this year:

  • Upgrade Your Tool Kit: If you are still using a manual toothbrush, consider switching to an electric one. They are generally more effective at removing plaque. Also, don’t forget to replace your brush head every three to four months.
  • Commit to Flossing: It’s the step everyone skips, but it’s crucial. Flossing once a day removes debris that your toothbrush simply cannot reach. If traditional floss is difficult for you, try water flossers or interdental picks.
  • Hydrate with Water: Sugary drinks and sodas are major culprits for cavities. Swapping just one sugary drink a day for water can significantly lower your risk of tooth decay and help wash away food particles.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Care

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide a wide range of general dentistry services designed to keep your smile bright. Whether you need a routine professional cleaning, a thorough exam, or more advanced restorative work, we have the experience to handle it.

We focus on education because we want our patients to feel empowered. We don’t just fix teeth; we help you understand how to maintain them for a lifetime. A long-lasting smile isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about function and health.

Make 2026 Your Best Year Yet

You don’t have to navigate your dental health journey alone. Let this be the year you stop putting off those appointments and start investing in yourself. Whether you are a new patient or have been with us since the 90s, we are here to support your goals.

Schedule your first appointment of 2026 today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier 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

Is It Too Late for Braces? Why Invisalign is Changing the Game for Adults

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Many adults look in the mirror and wish for a straighter smile. Perhaps you had braces as a teen and forgot your retainer, or maybe you never had the opportunity to fix your alignment. The thought of traditional metal brackets and wires often stops people in their tracks. You have a career, a social life, and a professional image to maintain. Metal braces just don’t seem to fit that picture.

Fortunately, orthodontics has evolved significantly. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we see adults every day who are reclaiming their confidence through Invisalign. Led by Dr. Chris Hammond, our team helps patients from Provo, American Fork, and Lehi discover that it is never too late to get the smile you deserve.

The Versatility of Modern Orthodontics

The old idea that straightening teeth is only for teenagers is fading fast. Adult orthodontics is one of the fastest-growing areas in dental care. This shift is largely driven by clear aligner therapy, specifically Invisalign.

Invisalign uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners to gently shift your teeth into place. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets to irritate your cheeks or wires that need tightening. The versatility of this system allows Dr. Hammond to treat a wide range of alignment issues, from simple crowding to complex bite problems, all without drawing attention to your dental work.

Discreet Correction at Any Age

One of the biggest hurdles for adults considering orthodontics is the aesthetic factor. You want people to focus on what you’re saying in a meeting, not on your dental hardware.

Invisalign solves this problem beautifully. The aligners are virtually invisible. Most people won’t even notice you are wearing them unless you point it out. This “invisible” nature makes it easier for you to discreetly fix your smile at any age. Whether you are 25 or 65, you can undergo treatment without feeling self-conscious.

How Invisalign Fits Your Lifestyle

Traditional braces come with a list of restrictions. You can’t eat popcorn, sticky candy, or hard foods. Flossing becomes a ten-minute chore involving threaders and patience.

Invisalign Clear Braces fit your lifestyle because they remove these barriers:

  • Eat What You Love: The aligners are removable. When it’s time for dinner, you simply take them out. You can enjoy your favorite foods without worry.
  • Easy Hygiene: Brushing and flossing remain simple. You remove the aligners, clean your teeth as you normally would, and pop them back in. This leads to better overall gum health during treatment compared to traditional braces.
  • Fewer Visits: Because there are no wires to tighten, your check-ups with Dr. Hammond are often quicker and less frequent than traditional orthodontic appointments. This is perfect for busy professionals and parents in Utah County.

Benefits of Clear Aligner Therapy

Beyond the cosmetic advantages, straightening your teeth has real health benefits. Crowded or crooked teeth are harder to clean, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Misaligned bites can cause jaw pain and uneven wear on your enamel. By choosing clear aligner therapy, you aren’t just improving your looks; you are investing in the long-term health of your mouth.

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

You don’t have to live with a smile you hide. If you are in Provo, American Fork, or Lehi, Dr. Chris Hammond and the team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry are ready to help. We can evaluate your specific needs and show you exactly how Invisalign can work for you.

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a straighter, healthier 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

When Root Canal Treatment Is Your Best Option to Save Your Natural Tooth

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Experiencing severe tooth pain or sensitivity? You might need a root canal. While this treatment often gets a bad reputation, modern root canal therapy at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo is a highly effective way to save your natural tooth and eliminate pain.

Dr. Chris Hammond and our team have helped countless patients throughout Provo, Orem, and Utah County preserve their natural teeth through expert root canal treatment. Let’s explore when this procedure becomes your best option and how we make it completely comfortable.

Signs You Might Need Root Canal Treatment

Several symptoms indicate that the inner pulp of your tooth is infected or damaged:

Severe, persistent pain when chewing or applying pressure signals that the tooth’s nerve is compromised. This pain often intensifies at night or when lying down.

Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers long after the stimulus is removed suggests nerve damage. Normal sensitivity disappears quickly, but infected nerves create lasting discomfort.

Darkening or discoloration of the tooth indicates the inner pulp is dying or dead. This change in color often appears gradually as the infection progresses.

Swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, sometimes accompanied by a small bump or pimple, shows your body is fighting infection.

A cracked or chipped tooth that exposes the inner pulp creates a pathway for bacteria, potentially leading to infection even without immediate pain.

How Root Canals Save Your Natural Tooth

Many patients assume extraction is their only option when facing severe tooth problems. However, root canal therapy offers a superior alternative that preserves your natural tooth structure.

During the procedure, Dr. Hammond carefully removes the infected or inflamed pulp from inside your tooth’s root canals. He then cleans and disinfects the inner chambers before filling and sealing the space with biocompatible material.

This process eliminates the infection while maintaining your tooth’s structural integrity. After healing, a crown is typically placed to restore full function and appearance.

Why saving your natural tooth matters:

  • Maintains proper chewing function
  • Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting
  • Preserves jawbone structure
  • Costs less than extraction and replacement options
  • Keeps your natural bite alignment

Comfortable Treatment With Advanced Sedation Options

Dr. Hammond understands that dental anxiety can prevent patients from seeking necessary treatment. That’s why Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry offers multiple sedation options to ensure your complete comfort throughout the root canal procedure.

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) provides relaxation while keeping you conscious and responsive. This mild sedation helps anxious patients feel calm and comfortable.

Oral sedation uses prescription medication taken before your appointment to create deeper relaxation. You’ll remain awake but feel drowsy and unconcerned about the procedure.

IV sedation delivers medication directly into your bloodstream for the deepest level of conscious sedation. This option is ideal for patients with severe dental anxiety.

Expert Care You Can Trust

Dr. Chris Hammond brings years of experience and advanced training to every root canal procedure. Using state-of-the-art technology and proven techniques, he ensures optimal outcomes with minimal discomfort.

Our practice prioritizes patient education and comfort. We’ll explain every step of your treatment and answer all questions, helping you feel confident in your decision to save your natural tooth.

Don’t let tooth pain control your life. Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule your consultation and discover how root canal therapy can eliminate your pain while preserving your natural 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

9 Tips For Preventing Gum Recession in Provo

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graphic showing how periodontitis occurs in stages

Unfortunately, gum disease is very common. But completely preventable.

Here are some simple ways from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

If you keep your teeth and gums healthy, you will only need to visit the dentist for cleanings and checkups. Not major treatment.

1. Brush for two to three minutes, at least twice a day, with fluoridated toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline. Brush away the particles of food Don’t brush too hard, but be thorough. Scrubbing your gums aggressively can be painful and is a BIG don’t.

2. Floss daily to remove plaque from places your toothbrush can’t reach. Don’t like to floss? Try a floss holder, which makes it far less complicated to insert floss between teeth. But get over your aversion to flossing, unless you want cavities or periodontitis (advanced gum disease).

3. Although not a substitute for brushing and flossing, using a mouth rinse can prevent plaque accumulation and keep your enamel strong. Remember that fluoride mouth rinses are not the same as mouthwashes. Mouthwashes have alcohol and are designed to freshen your breath. (But they can worsen dry mouth which can cause other problems.)

4. Eat a healthy diet. Starchy and sugary foods increase plaque. A wholesome diet provides the nutrients required (Vitamins A and C, in particular) to keep teeth and gums healthy.

5. Abstain from cigarettes and smokeless tobacco, which may result in periodontitis (advanced gum disease) or oral cancer. While you’re at it, avoid E-cigs and vapors.

6. Be aware that certain medications can also threaten oral health. These include oral contraceptives, antidepressants and heart medicines. If your medications are affecting your dental health, communicate with Dr. Hammond.

7. Exercise preventive care and schedule regular evaluations — the ideal way to detect early signs of gum disease and make a plan to reverse it.

8. Talk to your dentist about dental health topics such as old, broken fillings or crowded teeth.

9. If you grind your teeth, speak with Dr. Hammond about ways to guard your teeth.

Listed above are eight steadfast ways to ensure your teeth don’t decay, or worse, fall out completely. It’s critical to brush your teeth in the morning and at night. Bonus points for brushing and/or rinsing after lunch. Proper dental hygiene also keeps your breath fresh. Your friends, family, and co-workers will appreciate that.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Minimally Invasive Dentistry at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

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sunlit dental office in Provo Utah

Are you looking for a way to improve your smile without undergoing extensive dental procedures?

Minimally invasive dentistry offers a range of treatments that prioritize preserving healthy tooth structure while achieving optimal results.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our skilled dentists are dedicated to providing state-of-the-art minimally invasive care.

What is Minimally Invasive Dentistry?

Minimally invasive dentistry focuses on using techniques that minimize the removal of healthy tooth tissue. This approach can result in a faster recovery time, less discomfort, and more natural-looking results.

Some Examples of Minimally Invasive Procedures:

Composite Fillings: These tooth-colored fillings are a popular alternative to traditional metal fillings, as they can often be placed without removing as much healthy tooth structure.

Dental Lasers: Lasers can be used for a variety of procedures, including cavity preparation, gum surgery, and teeth whitening, with minimal discomfort and faster healing times.

Air Abrasion: This technique uses a high-speed stream of air and abrasive particles to remove decay without the need for drills.

CEREC Crowns: This technology allows for same-day crowns to be created using digital impressions and computer-aided manufacturing, minimizing the number of appointments required.

Why Choose Minimally Invasive Dentistry?

Less Discomfort: Minimally invasive procedures often involve less pain and discomfort compared to traditional methods.

Faster Recovery: With less tissue removal, healing times are typically shorter.

Improved Aesthetics: Minimally invasive techniques can often result in more natural-looking restorations.

Preservation of Tooth Structure: By removing only the necessary tissue, more of your natural tooth can be preserved.

If you’re interested in learning more about minimally invasive dentistry and how it can benefit you, schedule a consultation with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today.

Our experienced dentists are committed to providing you with the highest quality of care.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

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

Attack Of The Gummi Bear

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Provoaffordable family dentist

There probably isn’t a dentist in the world who would say eating candy is a good thing. That includes those of us at Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo.

To put it plainly, candy is loaded with sugar. The bacteria in your mouth uses any sugar that comes its way to produce the acids that cause tooth decay.

You’re better off avoiding candy entirely. But we’re realists, and know that is not an easy thing to do. (Full disclosure: most of us here don’t mind the occasional sweet, too!)

The trick, in part, is moderation. It’s also choosing your candy wisely. Some kinds are worse for your teeth than others. (Be sure to read this entire post: there’s a surprise ending!)

The Worst

The worst types of candy are the sticky ones, like gummi bears, taffy, and even those chewy fruit snacks. They attach to your teeth and stick there, and don’t rinse or brush away very easily.

Sticky candy can also cause problems with dental work, like fillings and crowns.

Dried fruit has the same effect. Admittedly, raisins or cranberries have more nutrition than a gummi bear. But they also have a lot of sugar and cling to the teeth.

Hard candy like lollipops are also really rough on teeth. They’re meant to melt in your mouth, so they’re in there a long time. That’s a sugar bath your teeth definitely don’t need.

Surprise!

Here’s the surprise: some candy isn’t all that bad. Chocolate melts quickly and rinses or brushes out easily. We like dark chocolate in particular, because it’s yummy and also tends to have less sugar than milk chocolate. It’s made from cocoa beans, which contain substances that help to harden enamel and even fight bacteria. Just remember to brush!

At Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo we want all our patients to have the best possible dental health, and staying away from candy, especially sticky candy, is always a good strategy. People from American Fork and Lehi come to us for dental implants, complete general dentistry services, and much more. Please call our office to schedule your next 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

 

ArticleID 6706

Improve Your Smile for Yourself (And Those That Look at You)

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long-term tooth replacement solution Provo

Losing one or more of your natural teeth impacts your smile, and your ability to bite and chew. But with dental implants from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, you can regain your smile and the ability to eat just about anything.

Dental implants are titanium posts that are anchored into your jaw. They are solid foundations for artificial teeth. Because they are physically attached to your jaw,  they also prevent the loss of bone that usually accompanies tooth loss.

If you’ve lost one or more teeth, a conventional dental bridge or dentures are certainly better than nothing. But because they are not solidly anchored to your jaw, they do not provide full biting and chewing function. This is, of course, a major drawback.

This is what makes dental implants so brilliant. They don’t look any different than natural teeth, and better still, they feel and function the same. Once the implants are in place and the jaw has fully healed, most patients report full chewing power. That means they can enjoy just about any food they choose.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo we provide single-tooth dental implants and implant-supported dentures. They look great! People from American Fork and Lehi trust us with their dental health! Call to schedule an appointment with us today!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

 

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How Much Do You Know About Gum Disease?

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gum disease treatment Provo

Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in adult Americans, yet many people are surprisingly under-informed about it. In this blog post from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we share some basic facts about gum disease.

  • In its earliest and most treatable stage, gum disease is called gingivitis. The more advanced form is called periodontitis.
  • More than half of Americans who are thirty and older have periodontitis. That equals nearly sixty-five million people.
  • The best way to prevent gum disease is to brush and floss your teeth twice a day, and have a dental checkup twice a year.
  • Gum disease has few symptoms in its early stages. You could have it but be completely unaware.
  • Tiny amounts of blood in the sink when you brush is not normal. If you see a little blood when you brush and floss, make an appointment with us right away.
  • Improved brushing and flossing, along with using an antiseptic mouthwash, is often enough to successfully treat gingivitis.
  • Advanced gum disease affects bone and ligaments, in addition to the gums. It requires more aggressive treatment, such as deep cleaning, but it too can be reversed.
  • Gum disease has been linked to more serious health conditions, including heart attacks, stroke, and Alzheimer’s.

These are frightening facts. It reminds us of the old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

To put it another way: guard your dental health with regular brushing and flossing, and regular checkups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We treat gum disease. People from American Fork and Lehi also come to us for complete general dentistry. Call to schedule your next 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

 

ArticleID 7386

Trouble Getting Numb For Dental Treatment?

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gentle dentist ProvoFor most of us, getting a cavity filled may not be the highlight of the day. But thanks to modern anesthesia, like what we use at Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo, it’s more an inconvenience than anything else.

Some people, though, are resistant to local anesthesia like lidocaine. That makes something that is usually simple, like filling a cavity, a real challenge: the tooth needs to be fixed, but the level of pain can go off the charts.

The patient may be filled with local anesthesia – but for them, it’s like it’s not even there. A slow response to lidocaine is fairly common, and a second injection usually takes care of it. But sometimes it just doesn’t work.

There has been research into this but no conclusive findings. Some theorize that the tissue in certain people doesn’t absorb anesthesia the way it does in most. Another possibility is that some of us have nerves in slightly different places than in most. But no one knows for sure.

All of this is cold comfort to anyone who who has trouble getting numb for dental work. If this sounds like you or someone close to you, please let us know at Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo. We will find a solution. People from American Fork and Lehi come to us for general and cosmetic dentistry. Call 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

 

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