Top 5 Oral Health Practices for Your Family in Provo, Utah

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health, Family Dentistry

old man showing two young kids how to properly brush their teeth

A healthy smile is a valuable asset for every family member.

By prioritizing oral health, you can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems that can impact your overall well-being.

Here are five essential practices from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to incorporate into your family’s routine:

Brush Twice Daily. Make brushing your teeth twice a day, for two minutes each time, a non-negotiable habit. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to gently remove plaque and bacteria.

Floss Daily. Flossing is equally important for reaching those hard-to-reach areas between teeth where plaque can accumulate. Help your children learn to floss from a young age to make it a lifelong habit.

Limit Sugary Treats. Excessive sugar consumption is a major contributor to tooth decay. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and encourage your family to opt for healthier alternatives like fruits and vegetables.

See Your Dentist Regularly. Schedule regular dental checkups for your entire family. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dentists recommend professional cleanings and examinations every six months for adults and children.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria, promoting a healthier mouth environment.

By following these simple practices, you can help your family maintain healthy smiles and prevent future dental problems.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Beautiful Teeth Without Breaking The Bank

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

affordable teeth whitening Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, our smile redesign patients believe that life-changing cosmetic dentistry is a worthwhile investment. Indeed, for most people, the value of a healthy, desirable smile cannot be measured in dollars. We agree, however, that cosmetic dentistry is not cheap.

Do you have to spend thousands of dollars to enhance your smile? Actually, no. Today’s post focuses on the most affordable cosmetic dental procedures.

Dental Bonding
In many cases, dental bonding can be used to fix a tooth that has been chipped.

When Dr. Chris Hammond repairs a tooth with dental bonding, a pliable resin material is applied to the tooth. Dr. Hammond expertly molds the material to create the desired shape. The resin is then hardened using a special light. After hardening, Dr. Hammond performs any necessary trimming and shaping followed by a final polishing.

Dental bonding is often less costly than porcelain veneers or dental crowns. Call us at 801-374-0070 to discuss cosmetic dental financing options.

Beware of brand-new Orem area practices that advertise very low prices for dental bonding, veneers, or dental implants. The know-how and artistic ability needed to attain minuscule tolerances should not be undertaken by a beginner. Thoroughly research any new cosmetic dentist you are considering for any cosmetic dental procedures or complete cosmetic dental smile makeover.

Tooth Whitening
Most Provo people are aware that there are several different tooth whitening procedures. Chris Hammond recommends scheduling a tooth whitening consultation to discuss your options. Even inexpensive OTC tooth bleaching systems can be misused and lead to tooth sensitivity, damage to tooth enamel, and uneven coloration.

Regarding the cost of teeth whitening: if you elect an at-home system from a drugstore, you may have to buy several packages to achieve even slight whitening. In-office whitening or a take-home system from our office may be more economical in the long run.

 

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

Your Provo Utah Dentist Can Help With Snoring and Sleep Apnea

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Categories: Dental Health, sleep apnea

man sleeping peacefully with a CPAP machine in Provo

Are you or a loved one struggling with snoring or sleep apnea?

These conditions can significantly disrupt your sleep and overall health. While many people associate these issues with sleep specialists, your local dentist can also play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dentists have specialized training in oral medicine and sleep disorders. We can assess your symptoms, conduct a thorough examination, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How Your Dentist Can Help

Diagnosis: Your dentist can use a variety of tools, including a sleep study, to diagnose sleep apnea.

Oral Appliances: In many cases, a custom-made oral appliance can help keep your airway open during sleep, reducing snoring and improving breathing.

Treatment Coordination: Your dentist can work closely with a sleep specialist to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of snoring or sleep apnea, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

Our team is dedicated to helping you get the restful sleep you deserve.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

You Can’t Afford Cheap Dental Work in Provo

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Provo teeth whitening

Have you ever gotten a bargain on a used car that turned out to be a lemon? After a couple of years of constant repairs, you realize that it ended up costing as much as a new car would have. And after spending all that money, you still have a dud.

The same is true of unsatisfactory dental work. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry wants you to get your money’s worth. You have probably received glossy postcard ads that publicize amazing deals on cosmetic dentistry: porcelain veneers, crowns, white fillings, and dental implants. The prices may be enticing, but be certain you do plenty of research before committing. We aren’t trying to imply that all dental practices that proclaim low procedure prices in their ads provide inferior work—we are just cautioning patients not to select a cosmetic dentist based on price alone. Unlike an automobile, you can’t sell your smile and buy a new one.

We will use porcelain veneers as an example. What can go wrong if you receive substandard porcelain veneers?

  • The dentist may be inexperienced and make mistakes: improper placement, inadequate color matching, and bite complications.
  • The materials may be deficient: unnatural color, prone to breaking, veneers pop off.
  • The lab techs that create the restorations may turn out poor quality work: unnatural color, poor fit.

If you are considering a smile transformation, meet with Dr. Chris Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry first.

During your consultation, you will learn about Dr. Hammond’s years of experience, techniques, specialty training, and the number of procedures performed.  You will learn about the best-suited materials for the restorations and receive information about the dental lab we use. We can also provide references if requested. And, of course, we will talk about how much each treatment will cost.

We are confident that you will find that our prices are competitive for the exceptional dentistry Dr. Hammond performs.

Don’t jeopardize your smile in an attempt to save some money. You do get what you pay for.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Suffering From Jaw Pain in Provo?

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Categories: Dental Health, Restorative Dentistry

urgent care for jaw pain Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we treat several causes of pain in the oral area. In today’s message, we will discuss jaw pain.

Sometimes it’s difficult to identify the cause of jaw pain.

Here are some of the possible causes:

Infection

A localized infection can trigger or aggravate jaw pain. An infection puts your tooth and jawbone at risk, so swift intervention is essential for many reasons. If your jaw starts swelling, call us immediately. This could indicate a severe, fast-moving infection.

Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge-type joint that allows you to open and close your mouth. Chronic TMD can be debilitating. Teeth clenching or grinding can cause or exacerbate TMD. It can also be caused by injury or arthritis. Some individuals who are plagued with TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress. If stress is the only cause, stress-reducing practices can help you prevent it or reduce the severity. But the first step is diagnosing the cause.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of the tissues that line your sinuses. Inflammation commonly occurs with a cold or allergies. When these tissues are inflamed, it can generate pressure in surrounding locations. Thus, inflammation from a cold or allergies can result in jaw pain.

Heart Attack

A heart attack can create pain in some surprising places, including the jaw. If jaw pain comes on suddenly and is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness, call an ambulance immediately. Be especially concerned about pain only in the left jaw joint.

You May Need Additional Treatment From a Medical Healthcare Provider

Jaw pain can be caused by a combination of factors, both dental and medical.

If the cause of your jaw pain warrants an additional medical specialist, we will refer you to a trusted professional. We work with your healthcare team to provide the best possible care.

Jaw Pain Doesn’t Have to Wait Until Monday

If you have an urgent jaw problem in the evening or on the weekend, the team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can take care of 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

Use Flex Account Funds For Dental Care in Provo

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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

The Chewing Survival Guide for Your Teeth from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

The Chewing Survival Guide for Your Teeth from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Your teeth are like tiny, hardworking superheroes. They deserve respect, not abuse. So, let’s talk about things you should never chew on.

Your smile will thank you.

Sure, it’s refreshing, but your teeth are not icebreakers. Chewing on ice can cause tiny cracks in your tooth enamel, leading to bigger problems down the line.

Trust us, your teeth would prefer a nice cold drink.

We get it, you’re deep in thought. But resist the urge to gnaw on your pen or pencil. These wooden or plastic weapons can chip or break your teeth. Plus, your favorite Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dentist will give you a weird look. 🙂

Hard candy is like a tiny, sugary landmine for your teeth. It’s tough, sticky, and can cause chips or cracks. If you must indulge, savor it slowly, but be sure to brush after so you don’t let that sugar stick around for too long.

See our other posts for more on why sugar can cause bad breath and the kinds of bacteria that can destroy tooth enamel and darken your teeth.

Nail-biting is a bad habit for many reasons, but your teeth can become the unintended collateral damage. Nails are tough, and your teeth are not. It’s a battle your teeth will lose. We see a lot of teeth that have been damaged or chipped while biting fingernails. Ditch the habit and give your teeth a break they can use.

Let’s be clear: your teeth are not tools. Avoid chewing on things like bottle caps, keys, or even those weird plastic toys you find around. Your dentist will appreciate it, and so will your future self.

Need Professional Help?

If you’ve accidentally chewed on something you shouldn’t have, or if you’re concerned about the health of your teeth, schedule an appointment with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah.

We’ll help you keep your smile sparkling and your teeth intact.

Remember, treat your teeth with the respect they deserve. They’re the only ones you’ve got!

 

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

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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

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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