What Can Dental Veneers Do For Your Smile?

porcelain veneers cost Orem

In this blog post from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we are taking the time to answer a common question: “What exactly are veneers, and how are they used in cosmetic dentistry?”

Porcelain veneers are thin shells made from medical-grade ceramic or composite resin. They are custom-made for each patient and are used to improve the appearance of teeth.

Unlike dental crowns, which cover the entire visible portion of a tooth, a veneer covers just the front part. They are usually used on teeth that have been chipped, stained, decayed, or that are slightly crooked.

Veneers are one of the most popular options available in modern cosmetic dentistry. They are so effective, they’ve even been earned the name of “instant orthodontics.” Technically, of course, they are not orthodontics; but they’re very strong, and can work wonders on any smile.

One thing to remember: a thin layer of enamel must be removed from the front of each tooth being covered with a veneer, in order for them to properly adhere. Once they’re cemented in place, they are permanent. You’ll have the best-looking smile of anyone you know!

To find out more about dental veneers, and whether they’d be a good option for you, please call us at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT. Patients from American Fork and Lehi come to our practice for veneers and other 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 5149

What If My Tooth Gets Knocked Out?

tooth injury Provo

It can happen in an instant: a blow to the mouth so violent, it knocks out a tooth. This is an authentic dental emergency and you need immediate care, like what we offer at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT.

If you venture on to a playing field, even if it’s only for touch football, it can happen. It might also be the result of a household accident. Regardless, if it happens, here it what you should do:

  1. Find the Tooth
    You may be in panic mode, so try to remember asking for help. When you find the tooth, handle it carefully. Keep it in the best condition possible. We may be able to reinsert it.
  2. Don’t Touch the Root!
    Remember to NOT touch the tooth by the root. Only hold it by the crown (the chewing part). It’s okay to gently rinse the tooth in water, but don’t scrub it or remove any tissue fragments. This is crucial and bears repeating: do not remove any tissue from the tooth. That bloody goo is valuable. It can help your tooth re-attach. At this point, the best place for the tooth is back in the socket. If you decide to put it there, place it gently. It may not be possible, so don’t force it. If it’s an injured child, don’t even try.
  3. Keep the Tooth Safe
    Holding the tooth between the lip and gum or under the tongue is a good option, but be careful you don’t swallow it. If neither of these is possible, place the tooth in a cup of milk, or wrap it in cloth moistened with saliva.
  4. Get To The Dentist ASAP!
    Remember, a knocked out tooth is a clear-cut dental emergency, and you’re in a race against the clock. If you receive treatment within an hour, chances are good the tooth can be saved.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we offer emergency dentistry, along with complete general dentistry services. Call ahead if you can, but if there’s a knocked out tooth, getting here as soon as you can is the main thing! We serve satisfied patients from American Fork and Lehi. Request an appointment 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 8157

A Noteworthy Dental Experience

cost of dental crowns Orem

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we make each appointment a noteworthy experience with our attention to detail, and commitment to each patient’s dental health.

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 regular checkups.

Crucial Steps in a Good Dental Routine

  • 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!
  • Fluoridated toothpaste: There is a myriad 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.
  • Limited sugar intake: Fruits, teas, and coffee all contribute 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.
  • Check-ups 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 want every checkup to be a noteworthy experience, and for all our patients to enjoy excellent dental health. People from American Fork and Lehi come to us for a wide range of cosmetic dentistry options, including teeth whitening and porcelain veneers. Contact us to schedule your next checkup!

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 6735

Two Hints For When You’re Too Tired To Brush

Utah County gentle dentist

Too tired to touch a toothbrush? We’ve all been there. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we have two quick ideas to overcome your exhaustion and pick up your toothbrush.

Idea #1 Drag Tongue Along Teeth

As you lie there in bed after a long hard day and realize you forgot to brush, drag your tongue over your teeth a few times. As you do, visualize plaque: that filmy stuff on the teeth and gumline. It’s loaded with the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Then jump up and give your mouth just two minutes of gentle, thorough cleaning.

Idea #2 Scrutinize the Food You Eat

Another convenient and uncomplicated approach is to pay attention to what goes into your mouth throughout the day. The higher the sugar content, the sooner the teeth will need a brushing to avoid harm. Swish with water after coffee, tea or soda if brushing isn’t going to happen soon.

Brushing is Crucial

Remember that brushing your teeth is an important part of any daily dental health routine. We recommend brushing twice a day, and with a soft-bristled toothbrush. We strongly recommend flossing, too.

Be sure to get all over your teeth: the front and the sides, inside and out, and the top. Use a pea-sized blob of fluoridated toothpaste, or more than pea-sized, if you’d like. Too much toothpaste is no big deal, but be sure to use enough!

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we want the best possible dental health for all of our patients. People from American Fork and Lehi come to our practice for cosmetic and general dentistry. Contact us today to schedule your next checkup!

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 6830

Feel Like A Movie Star With A Smile Makeover

Lehi Best Teeth Whitening

When you see pictures of celebrities, most look like they have perfectly beautiful, white teeth. It’s very impressive! Can ordinary people obtain a celebrity-caliber smile? With cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT, absolutely!

Cosmetic dentistry refers to a range of procedures that use proven dental techniques to improve the appearance of a patient’s smile. Whether it is relatively minor or more involved, it can give you the beautiful teeth you have always wanted.

Available procedures include:

Teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening surpasses any whitening product you can buy at the store. We offer a powerful in-office treatment, or professional-grade take-home kit.

Porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin ceramic shells custom-fitted to† your teeth. They are permanently attached to mask chips and cracks, replace lost enamel, or to cover gaps between teeth.

Crowns and bridges. Crowns and bridges can replace lost teeth or restore damaged ones.

Any one of these procedures will have an immediate, noticeable effect. Put them together and you’ll have a stunning new smile!

At Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT, we use cosmetic dentistry to improve the smiles of our patients every day. People from American Fork and Lehi also come to our practice for complete porcelain veneers and teeth whitening. Contact us today to find out what we can do for 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

 

ArticleID 4557

Implants or Traditional Dentures? Ask Yourself These Questions When Choosing

dental implants Provo

If you want to restore your smile due to extensive tooth loss, you have a decision. Will you choose conventional dentures, or dentures supported by dental implants, like those available at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT? When you consider the advantages of implants, there is really no contest.

Let’s compare conventional removable dentures and dental implants.

Feel

Dentures sit right on the gums. An adhesive is used to help maintain the daily fit A dental implant is surgically fixed into the jawbone similar to one’s original teeth.

Effective years

Dentures typically last 7 to 15 years. As one’s jawbone changes shape, dentures need to be adjusted to fit. Implants are fitted once.

Bone Loss

Missing teeth lead to bone loss, whch in turn changes the shape of the face. Unfortunately this shows in the face with a shrunken look. Implants help stimulate the jawbone, which helps to keep the shape of the bone and facial structure.

Speech

Dentures can move and shift as you wear them, affecting speech patterns. Dental implants are anchored securely in the jawbone, and don’t interfere with speech at all.

Eating

Sticky or hard foods are difficult or even impossible when chewing with dentures. Implant-supported dentures allow you to eat any kind of food.

Implant-supported dentures from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT have transformed tooth replacement. We’ve placed them in patients from American Fork and Lehi, who also come to us for complete general dentistry. Call for 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

 

ArticleID 8347

Getting a Dental Implant May Not Take as Long as You Think

teeth implants OremThink you don’t have time to transform your smile? Getting a dental implant from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT may not take as long as you think.

Each case is different. But in most, complete implant procedures take fewer visits than they used to. We can usually restore missing teeth with just a couple of visits.

Don’t rely on second-hand accounts or outdated information. We invite you to come and get the facts.

Call Us Today

If you are embarrassed by missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures, don’t wait any longer. Completed dental implants look and feel like natural teeth. Implants can serve as a sturdy foundation for dentures, support a dental bridge, or replace a damaged tooth, without disturbing the surrounding teeth

Since dental implants fuse with your jaw bone, they also help prevent bone loss.

If you are missing one or more teeth, please call us at Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT and we can discuss your dental implant options. We’ve helped people throughout American Fork and Lehi, who also come to us for complete general dentistry, and all their dental care needs. Schedule an appointment 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 8548

How Your Lifestyle Affects Your Tooth Color

teeth whitening ProvoMost of us would like to have white teeth and a great smile. But discolored or just plain yellow teeth is common, especially in a world of tea and coffee drinkers. At Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT, we can fix that.

Tooth enamel is a little like skin. It has pores that can get clogged and discolored. The most common habits that work against you are:

  • Tobacco
  • Sodas and other dark colored drinks, i.e. coffee, red wines, and teas
  • Not practicing daily oral hygiene
  • Not having proper dental care

If you want to lighten your teeth, the above will consistently work against you.

We advise kicking these habits to the curb if you want the whitest teeth possible. (There are other good health reasons, too.)

If, in spite of your best efforts, your smile is still dull, professional teeth whitening from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry in Provo UT can revive it. People throughout American Fork and Lehi trust us with their smiles! We also offer Invisalign clear braces, and other smile-improving options. Call for an appointment 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 8137

Tooth Implant Placement: Before, During, After

Dental implants are rapidly becoming the tooth replacement option of choice. Millions of Americans have chosen implants, like those available at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. Once the decision is made, patients usually want to know what’s involved every step of the way.

Before the Procedure

It begins with a consultation and preliminary exam. We’ll take X-rays of your teeth and jaw to make sure you have enough healthy bone structure. If you don’t, we may recommend bone grafting.

We’ll also inspect your gums for any signs of gum disease. Healthy gums are essential for a successful implant.

During Implant Surgery

After administering anesthesia, a guide hole is drilled into your jaw and a titanium post – which is the actual implant – is screwed in. The process takes about an hour.

After

Some patients experience minor pain and swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually enough to control it. An icepack can help, too. Most people can resume their usual activities the same day.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo we have placed dental implants in people from American Fork and Lehi, who also come to us for our complete general dentistry. 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

 

ArticleID 8174

What Is Lurking Under Your Gumline?

Gum Disease Treatment Provo

Your overall dental health depends on healthy teeth and gums. Along with regular checkups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, regular brushing and flossing helps keep everything in good shape.

You already know how to brush your teeth. But there are best practices that you may not be aware of. Bearing in mind that there is always room to improve, we offer up these tips:

  • Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle with the bristle tips aimed at the line where the tooth and gum meet.
  • Choose a toothbrush with soft bristles.
  • Get all over your teeth: the front and the sides, inside and out, and the tops.
  • Use fluoridated toothpaste.
  • Use dental floss!

Remember, poor brushing and flossing allows plaque to build up on your teeth, and in between. This puts you at risk for gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing, done properly, is the best way to prevent plaque from building up.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo we can treat gum disease.  People from American Fork and Lehi come to our practice for complete general dentistry services, and much more. Call us 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 4592