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

Building a Smile You Can Trust With Long-Term Dental Care at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health

Building a Smile You Can Trust With Long-Term Dental Care at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Your smile is a powerful asset. It conveys confidence, and warmth, and plays a vital role in your overall health. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy smile throughout your life. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive, long-term dental care for patients in the Provo, Utah area.

Why Choose Long-Term Dental Care?

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. However, establishing a long-term relationship with a caring dental provider offers several additional benefits:

Personalized Care: As your dental history grows, we can tailor your treatment plan to address your specific needs and concerns.

Early Detection: Regular checkups allow us to identify potential problems early on when they are easier and less expensive to treat.

Preventive Focus: By working with you on good oral hygiene habits, we can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Comfort and Trust: Over time, you’ll develop a sense of trust and comfort with your dentist and hygienist, making dental visits less stressful.

What to Look for in a Long-Term Dental Provider

Finding the right dentist for you is an important decision. Here are some key qualities to consider:

Expertise and Experience: Look for a dentist who has a strong track record and stays up-to-date on the latest dental advancements.

Communication Style: Choose a dentist who listens to your concerns, explains procedures clearly, and answers your questions thoroughly.

Gentle Touch: A dentist who prioritizes your comfort and minimizes any potential discomfort during treatment.

Convenient Location and Hours: Finding a practice that is conveniently located and offers flexible appointment scheduling can make a significant difference in maintaining consistent care.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, We’re Here for Your Smile’s Journey

Our team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is passionate about providing compassionate, personalized dental care for patients of all ages. We offer a wide range of services, from routine cleanings to advanced restorative procedures, to ensure your smile stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.

Ready to Build a Long-Term Dental Care Partnership?

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule an appointment and discuss your oral health goals. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey towards a healthy, happy 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

Why Quarterly Dental Checkups Are Essential in Provo, Utah

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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

Should Teens See a General or Pediatric Dentist in Orem?

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

when should my child transition from a pediatric to general dentist? Orem

Some parents in the Orem area bring their children to a pediatric dentist. Others use a general or family dentist for every member of their household.

What’s the difference between a pediatric dentist and a general dentist?

Pediatric dentists have specialized training to treat infants, young children, and adolescents. They use special dental tools created for smaller mouths. Some pediatric dentists have training in child psychology which can help make children feel comfortable during dental treatment.

When should my child transition from a pediatric dentist to a general dentist? Some parents transition their son or daughter to a general dentist as soon as all their child’s permanent teeth come in. Other parents have their children see a pediatric dentist until their late teens.

Does your teen feel comfortable at a pediatric dental practice?

Sometimes, when a child hits their early teen years, they feel uncomfortable at a pediatric dental practice. This is especially true if the office is furnished and geared toward toddlers and pre-teens. In this case, the teen may choose the right time to transition.

Above all, it’s vital that your child feels comfortable at the dentist. If your youngster starts feeling like they are too old to see a pediatric dentist, it’s time to switch to a general dentist.

We understand the oral health needs of your son or daughter.

Remember that the team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is willing and able to address adolescent dental needs. We are happy to treat your teenager through their adolescent years.

What dental issues should I be watching for during adolescence?

First off, pay attention to your son or daughter’s nutrition. As children become more independent, they start making more of their own food choices. If you visit any Provo-area middle school or high school during lunch, you will notice that some teens drink soda and energy drinks. Most of those teens most likely drank milk during elementary school. Make sure you get enough calcium to keep your teeth strong. Vaping and smoking take a toll on physical and dental health. Unfortunately, they are too common among the teen group in the Orem area.

Your dentist is an essential member of your teen’s healthcare team.

Your dentist can help you understand how their diet and lifestyle impact their oral health. If your teenager struggles with an eating disorder, a dentist can address any related dental issues. If your teen is undergoing orthodontic treatment, your dentist can monitor their teeth closely during a time when it’s more difficult to keep teeth clean and free of decay

Regardless of when you transition your teen to a general dentist, make sure they see a dentist at least twice a year. Continue to monitor their oral hygiene practices and set a good example. Watch out for destructive habits. Furthermore, make sure they wear a mouthguard when participating in contact sports.

The team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry has been serving families in the Orem area since 1967. We value the relationships we have developed with our patients and their families. If you are looking for an experienced, caring family and general dentist in the Provo area, give us a call to schedule a consultation.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Solutions for Missing Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Implants

Solutions for Missing Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

A complete smile plays a vital role in our overall well-being.

Missing teeth can impact your appearance and your ability to eat, speak, and chew comfortably.  At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, a leading dental practice in Provo, we understand the challenges associated with missing teeth and offer a variety of personalized solutions to restore your smile and confidence.

The Impact of Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your life.  Some of the consequences to consider include:

  • Aesthetics: Missing teeth can detract from your smile and self-confidence.
  • Oral Function: Chewing and speaking can become difficult, affecting your overall well-being.
  • Jawbone Health: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw, impacting the structure of your face and potentially affecting neighboring teeth.

Dental Solutions for Missing Teeth

Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective options to replace missing teeth and restore a healthy, functional smile.  At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we will work closely with you to understand your needs and recommend the most suitable solution, which may include:

  • Dental Implants: These titanium posts act as artificial tooth roots, surgically placed in the jawbone. Implants provide a strong foundation for a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture, offering excellent long-term functionality and aesthetics.
  • Dental Bridges: Bridges are fixed restorations that anchor to healthy teeth on either side of the gap. They are a strong and stable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth.
  • Dentures: Traditional dentures are removable appliances that replace a full arch of missing teeth. They are a cost-effective option but may require some adjustment to get used to. Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability and comfort.

The Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry Difference

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced team will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health to determine the best course of treatment for replacing missing teeth. We utilize advanced technology and techniques to ensure a comfortable and successful treatment experience.

Taking the First Step Towards a Complete Smile

If you are missing teeth and considering replacement options, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile’s function and beauty.

Let us help you regain your confidence and enjoy the benefits of a complete smile once again.

 

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?

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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?

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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

Keep Teeth Cavity Free With Braces

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Braces, Dental Health

orthodontics invisible braces Provo

Does your youngster in Provo have braces? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide tips to help keep them clean.

It’s more difficult to keep your teeth clean if you wear braces. There are numerous places bits of food can hide. It’s challenging to get toothbrush bristles in all those nooks and crannies.

Food bits turn into bacteria

The brackets and wires on braces create places where harmful bacteria can thrive.

If brace wearers don’t practice consistent, proper oral hygiene, their teeth can become permanently damaged.

The cycle of decay in 5 stages:

  1. The bits of food collect in the tiny spaces in and around the brackets and wires
  2. The bacteria in the food particles multiply
  3. The bacteria create plaque
  4. The plaque erodes the enamel
  5. The plaque destroys enamel and the dentin below and forms a cavity

Bacteria isn’t good for gums, either

Provo orthodontic patients can also have gum disease (gingivitis). Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Periodontitis can bring about bone recession and tooth loss.

Protect teeth with a healthy diet plus proper oral hygiene

Teens with braces should pay extra attention to eating a nutritious diet. This includes limiting snacks between meals. Be aware that highly acidic foods and beverages can damage enamel.

Avoid soda pop and energy drinks

There are few liquids as detrimental as soda and energy drinks, both of which have enamel-eroding acid and sugar.

How to brush with braces

Here are the steps to effective brushing while wearing braces, courtesy of Colgate:

  1. Use fluoride toothpaste
  2. Remove elastics before brushing
  3. Place your brush at a 45 degree angle against the gums
  4. Gently brush with a circular motion along the gumline where the gums and teeth meet
  5. Brush at least 10 seconds on each tooth
  6. Gently brush the brackets
  7. Press the brush firmly so that the bristles spread into the gaps between the wire and the tooth
  8. Brush in and around all of the brackets and be sure to get under the wires (a battery-powered brush may be helpful)
  9. For the chewing surfaces, use a firm back-and-forth motion
  10. Spit out excess toothpaste
  11. Closely inspect your teeth and braces in the mirror to check that they are clean and shiny
  12. Replace the elastics
  13. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash for 1 minute to help prohibit cavities and white spots
  14. Use other oral care products as prescribed by your dental professional

It is also vital to floss while wearing braces. We’ll address that in another post.

If you are new to the Orem area and looking for an experienced pediatric dentist, we invite you to give us a call.

 

1“Protecting Your Healthy Smile while Wearing Braces,” Colgate Professional, http://www.colgateprofessional.com/patient-education/articles/protecting-your-healthy-smile-while-wearing-braces

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Orem area

A bright, white smile projects warmth, and health, and makes a positive first impression. But over time, teeth can lose their natural luster, becoming dull or yellow due to various factors. If you’re looking to recapture the brilliance of your smile, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, a leading dental practice in Provo, Utah, can help. We offer a variety of effective teeth whitening solutions to address discoloration and restore a smile you can be proud of.

Understanding Teeth Discoloration

Several factors contribute to yellowing teeth. The most common culprits include:

Diet: Regular consumption of staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can leave behind pigments on tooth enamel.

Age: As we age, the outer layer of enamel thins, revealing the dentin underneath, which has a naturally yellow hue.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Nicotine and tar from cigarettes and chewing tobacco stain teeth, leading to a yellow or brown discoloration.

Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that discolor teeth.

Tailored Teeth Whitening Solutions at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for teeth whitening.  We offer a personalized consultation to determine the cause of your discoloration and recommend the most suitable cosmetic dental option.

Here are some of the methods we provide:

In-Office Whitening: This professional treatment offers dramatic results in a single appointment. A powerful bleaching agent is applied to the teeth under controlled conditions, lightening discoloration.

Take-Home Whitening: This convenient option allows you to whiten your teeth at your own pace in the comfort of your home. Custom-made whitening trays are filled with a bleaching gel and worn for a specific amount of time each day.

Combination Therapy: We may recommend combining in-office and take-home whitening treatments for stubborn stains for optimal results.

Beyond Whitening: Maintaining a Bright Smile

While teeth whitening can significantly improve the look of your smile, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene to maintain those results. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and limiting staining foods and beverages are all crucial for keeping your smile bright.

We can also recommend at-home whitening products to help you maintain your results between professional treatments.

Ready to Rediscover Your Smile’s Radiance?

If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth and regain a confident smile, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today.  Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and explore the teeth-whitening options we offer. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a smile that shines as brightly as you do.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Smokeless Tobacco Is Not Harmless For Provo Chewers

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

dental implants Provo

Cigarette sales at most Provo stores have decreased in the past decade, but some tobacco consumers have switched to smokeless products.

There is a common misconception (especially among teens) that smokeless tobacco is harmless. This is absolutely not true. Regardless of the specific type: spit tobacco, snuff, chew, or pinch, this form of tobacco is as deadly as old-school cigarettes.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we encounter serious consequences of smokeless tobacco use because many occur in the mouth. Oral cancer, mouth lesions, gum disease, and tooth decay are the most common dental problems caused by smokeless tobacco.

Keeping a pinch between your cheek and gum all day is worse than keeping an all-day sucker tucked in there. Tobacco contains almost as much sugar as candy but delivers dangerous chemicals as an added bonus. The dangers are two-fold: the tobacco erodes the teeth and also causes the gums to pull away from the teeth.

Precancerous Mouth Lesion Screening: Mouth lesions are painful sores that could eventually become cancer. If smokeless tobacco use is stopped, the lesions frequently disappear within a year for many dental patients.

Oral Cancer: Smokeless tobacco use increases the risk of several types of life-threatening cancers including those of the mouth, gums, lips, tongue, and throat.

Oral cancers can be as deadly as lung cancer and usually require surgery. If the patient is fortunate and the cancer is successfully removed with surgery, the collateral damage to the face, neck, or jaw is not pretty.

These are the main dental risks of smokeless tobacco. Moreover, I should also mention two other biggies: addiction and heart disease, though those are topics for another day.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we perform oral cancer screenings and mouth lesions examinations. To receive more details, or schedule an appointment, call 801-374-0070.

If you want to quit using smokeless tobacco products, we recommend that you speak with Dr. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your primary care doctor, or your pharmacist.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604