3 Point Checklist Before Your Dental Consultation

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

family dentist Provo

Looking for a dentist because you’re losing the battle with plaque build-up, chipped teeth, tooth pain, stains, or cavities? Here are three steps to take before you arrive at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo for a consultation.

The state of your mouth is critical to your fitness, both emotionally and physically. Everyone wants to make a pleasing impression when they smile or speak. We understand that.

The look, the odor, the feel, the functionality of your biting surfaces are so important to your everyday experience that we recognize our vital role in finding answers to these issues.

After you schedule a consultation with our team, please take a moment to review the following checklist for a productive appointment experience:

  1. Evaluate your hygiene routine and gaps in technique or consistency.
    When do you brush your teeth? Do you floss? How often? If not, why? We can discuss your habits and determine what is holding you back, if anything.
  2. Identify pain or problem areas throughout your mouth.
    Persistent or intermittent? Sharp or dull? Triggered by hot or cold? Living with pain is needless with the technology and expertise available these days. Usually there are straightforward solutions to seemingly big pains. Let us address all your aches.
  3. Identify and explain what you want your smile to look like.
    If you can describe your prime smile, we can look at how to attain it. There are numerous possibilities for a fantastic smile makeover as well as dental maintenance procedures. Cosmetic dentistry runs the gamut from teeth whitening to veneers to dental implants.

We welcome questions about the cost of porcelain veneers, the price of filling a cavity, or placing a crown. We have answers for you. We are equipped and trained in care perfect for your needs. Our services include dental implants, along with family and cosmetic dentistry.

When it comes to looking for a dentist in Provo or the surrounding communities, please know that you will be in gentle and capable hands with the team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. 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 6934

Restore Or Replace: New Life For Your Damaged Tooth

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

restoration dentistry Provo

As the saying goes, there is more than one way to skin a cat. Likewise, there is more than one way to fix a tooth. If you are the lucky owner of a set of perfectly healthy teeth, you may never need any of these procedures. However, if you are like most Utah residents, you will probably need to restore a tooth eventually. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, there are ways to improve virtually any dental irregularity.

A Porcelain Veneer
Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin covers that can hide a chip or crack or improve the appearance of a tooth that is slightly crooked.

A Filling, Inlay, or Onlay
This procedure has been used to restore teeth for over a century, though the materials and techniques have advanced. One fairly new option is white filling replacement for metal fillings. A traditional filling is shaped and molded after it is applied to the tooth. Because inlays and onlays are created in a dental lab, they are typically called indirect fillings. Inlays are applied to just the center of the biting surface of a tooth (not to a cusp or point) and are commonly smaller than onlays. An onlay restores one or more cusps of a tooth.

Dental Bonding
Bonding, formally called direct composite veneers, is used to fix chips, cracks, stains, and make teeth longer. It is also sometimes used to fill cavities. A skilled cosmetic dentist applies pliable composite resin and molds it to the exact shape needed. The resin is then hardenend with a special curing light.

A Dental Crown
A crown replaces the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring appearance, stability, and function. Crowns are used for teeth that have had a root canal, teeth with acute decay, the replacement tooth in a dental bridge, and the visible portion of a dental implant. Crowns can be made of all metal (such as gold), porcelain-fused-to-metal, all ceramic, or all resin.

Dental Implants
Dental implants have been hailed as one of the greatest advancements in dentistry. Most recipients report implants are virtually indistinguishable from a natural tooth. An implant can also prohibit bone recession, which is common at an extraction site.

To find out more about these and other services available from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, call our office 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

 

ArticleID 7140

Flossing: The Detail Work

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Whenever you’re in the Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry office in Provo, we make sure to remind you to brush and floss every day. In general, we say brush your teeth at least twice a day, and floss at least once. Too many patients heed that first bit of advice, but unfortunately ignore the second.

Flossing between your teeth is every bit as important to your dental health as brushing is, but it has a different role. Where brushing removes plaque from the surface of the teeth and along the gum line, flossing gets into the tight spaces between your teeth. It loosens the debris that always gets wedged in, and any plaque building up.

In short, it gets those places that your toothbrush can’t.

Should you floss before brushing, or after? The jury is out on that one. Some research suggests that flossing first can make brushing more effective. The idea is that after flossing, there is less gunk between your teeth. The fluoride in your toothpaste is able to get in there better.

Before or after – do whatever you prefer. Just don’t forget to floss!

We think of flossing as the detail work. Brushing gets most of the work done, but it takes floss to get into those tight places, and leave your mouth as clean as it can be.

That’s why, for the best of dental health, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo urges you to brush AND floss. We provide a full range of dental services, including dental implants and porcelain veneers. 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

 

Missing Teeth? 5 Things You Need To Know About Dentures

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Implants, Dentures

implant dentures Provo

If you are missing one or more of your teeth, you will be interested to know about dental implants from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, which have been called the single greatest advancement in dentistry.

1. Dentures are not the only replacement option for missing teeth. Dental implants used alone or in combination with a partial denture is often a better option for patients. Whereas a removable appliance replaces only the visible parts of teeth, an implant replaces both the root and crown of a tooth. This has critical implications. Dental implants can prevent bone recession that typically occurs following tooth extractions. Dental implants can provide patients the near-normal ability to chew, speak, and laugh.

2. There is more than one variety of denture. Most people are familiar with the removable denture that replaces a complete upper or lower arch. There are also partial dentures that are used for patients who have some original teeth. Partial dentures can be permanent in the mouth or removable.

3. Even if you have worn dentures for a while, you may be an appropriate candidate for implant-anchored dentures. The vital factor is whether or not you have enough bone to support an implant. Bone grafting can augment bone in some patients.

4. Regardless of your tooth replacement configuration—full dentures, partial dentures, or tooth implants—you still need to practice correct oral hygiene. Removable appliances should be cleaned daily.

5. Even if you have no remaining teeth left, it’s vital that you have semiannual dental examination. Optimal oral health is a vital component of overall physical well-being. We will examine your mouth for indications of diseases like cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we provide dental implants, implant-supported dentures, porcelain veneers, and a full complement of dental services. 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 7395

Tooth Replacement For The 21st Century

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Categories: Dental Health, Dental Implants, Dentures

Utah County tooth implant supported dentures

Not everything was better back in the “good old days.” Take dentures, for instance. Dentures have been around for generations and have certainly improved the lives of thousands of Provo people who have lost many or all of their teeth.

But those old-school false teeth are not the ideal tooth replacement. Traditional dentures can impede many critical oral functions: chewing, tasting, swallowing, talking, and smiling.

You may know denture wearers who have stopped attending social activities because they are embarrassed by dentures that are far from inconspicuous. Some have even stopped eating their favorite foods because their dentures diminish their power to taste and/or chew.

There is great news for Provo residents with missing teeth: Dentures have evolved!

Implant-anchored or implant-supported dentures are far superior than conventional dentures for many patients. So much better, in fact, that there really should be another term for this revolutionary tooth replacement system – a term that doesn’t include the word “denture.” (If you can think of a good name, let us know.)

There are two types of implant anchored dentures; removable and permanent. No adhesive is necessary for either system. With the permanent type, screw retentions are anchored in the jaw to serve as attachment points for the denture. Permanent implant-supported dentures are very stable. Furthermore, they are usually less pricey than replacing each missing tooth with an implant. (The cost varies depending on the number of implants needed and other factors.)

Screw retentions require enough bone thickness to allow the implant to securely mesh with the existing bone. Unfortunately, some patients who have been missing teeth for a long period of time have experienced bone recession. For patients who lack the required amount of bone, mini-implants may be an alternative.

Removable implant anchored dentures have a locator attachment which allows the wearer to snap the appliance in place. Some patients prefer this type because they can remove them at night for cleaning. Countless Provo patients who have traded in their traditional dentures report that their implant anchored dentures have greatly improved their life.

The benefits of implant-supported dentures include:

  • Increased comfort
  • Natural appearance
  • Normal tooth function
  • Improved strength
  • Better bone retention
  • Denture relines not needed
  • Minimal gum irritation
  • No denture adhesive necessary

To find out more about dental implants and implant-supported dentures, call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo.

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 6958

Cosmetic Dentistry: Art and Science

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we create beautiful smiles with cosmetic dentistry.

It’s been said that cosmetic dentistry is part science and part art. That is a short-and-sweet definition for what we do. More to the point, though, is that we use sound dental techniques to bring positive changes to the smiles of our patients.

Smile enhancement through cosmetic dentistry can have positive changes on your life. The smallest improvement can boost your self-confidence. We have many techniques we can use, depending on the state of your smile: we can correct teeth that are discolored, chipped, mis-shapen, and even missing.

Traditional dentistry addrtesses the health of your teeth and gums, and that certainly has its place in what we do. Cosmetic dentistry aims to complement the overall general and dental health of each patient. We do more than recommend specific procedures. We consider the shape, alignment, color and condition of the teeth, and the facial shape and coloring of each patient. There is no one-size-fits-all treatment. (If only!)

Your teeth take a lot of wear and tear over the years. But cosmetic dentistry from Hammond Aesthetic and General Dentistry can restore your smile to its youthful appearance. Possibilities include porcelain veneers and Invisalign clear braces. Call us today 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

 

Smile Transformations

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry

smile makeovers Provo

This blog post from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo is for people who aren’t happy about their smile.

Common issues for patients include yellow or misaligned teeth, too much or too little gum tissue, and missing or broken teeth.

Few people have naturally stunning smiles. Those who practice proper oral care can avoid many problems that affect oral health and the attractiveness of their smile. But some people are unsatisfied with their smiles even though they brush and floss religiously.

Cosmetic dentistry has the power to transform your smile, regardless of flaws. We have the experience and know-how to transform ordinary smiles into extraordinary smiles. Ask us about creating your dream smile!

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo also provides family dentistry. 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 7130

Super Smiles Have Strong Enamel

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Provo dental financing

Did you know that enamel is the hardest substance in the body? It’s true! This substance, found on the outer surface of your teeth, is meant to last a lifetime. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we help our patients keep their teeth and enamel healthy.

Enamel may be super tough, but you still need to work to take care of it. Here are some helpful tips for keeping enamel healthy.

1. Pick the right foods for enamel health. It’s no secret that soft drinks damage your teeth, and don’t think that diet sodas are harmless – the artificial sweeteners can also erode enamel over time. There are also other culinary culprits that can do a lot of harm. Sticky, chewy candies should be avoided. Chewing ice is a no-no. And don’t use your teeth as tools. Take a minute to grab some scissors before you rip open that package with your incisors.

On the flip side, foods with calcium can neutralize acid in your mouth and protect your enamel. So, enjoy your dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt!

2. Avoid vigorous brushing and use a soft brush. Also, it’s best to brush about an hour after eating, because foods, especially acidic ones, can soften the enamel, thus making it more prone to weakening from brushing. If your teeth are discolored or yellowish, you may feel you need to brush harder. Instead, ask us about teeth whitening.

3. Keep stomach acids in check. If you have a problem with severe heartburn, the stomach acid could be traveling up your esophagus and into your mouth. This acid can erode enamel, so it is essential to speak with your doctor about treatment.

4. Talk to us about dry mouth and tooth grinding. Lack of saliva is a major problem for tooth enamel, and it’s no surprise that teeth grinding can also wear it down. Let us know if you experience either of these issues.

At Hammond Aesthetic& General Dentistry in Provo, we want our patients to have the best oral health possible, and enamel health is a key component. We provide family and cosmetic dentistry.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

 

ArticleID 7132

Sparkling Smiles With Safe Bleaching

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

affordable teeth bleaching Provo

One of the easiest ways to brighten your smile cosmetically is by teeth whitening at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. It’s a simple, non-invasive method to improve your overall appearance and bring confidence to your daily interactions with people.

Before beginning the procedure of teeth whitening, we recommend meeting with us for a consultation. This will help determine which whitening method is best for you. We can also discuss foods and habits, such as smoking, that you can avoid to keep your teeth whiter longer.

During the consult, we can also discuss other aspects of your smile you would like to improve. New, industry-leading technology provides methods to correct any dental problem you may have.

How white you want your teeth to be? Depending on the whitening method chosen, your teeth can be whitened three to eight shades in just an hour. An in-office procedure produces a degree of lightening that cannot be achieved with a grocery store product.

It is essential to understand that whitening does not affect existing fillings, veneers, or crowns. It also is temporary and may require follow-up visits to keep them white.

Teeth whitening is just one of the cosmetic dentistry services we offer at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. Schedule a consultation 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 7062

Dental Questions? We Have Answers

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry

sealants American Fork

Everyone has teeth, and health conscious people want to take care of theirs. However, many individuals need a place where they can review basic principles of dental health and get clear information about restorative and cosmetic dental procedures such as dental implants, teeth whitening, and veneers. The blog from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo is your source for this helpful oral care information.

We know that many of our dental patients have concerns and questions about their oral care. That’s why we include hot-button dental issues in my blog such as:

Smile Makeovers
Sealants
Invisible Braces
Toothbrush Care
ADA Seal Products
Tooth Protection
Gum Contouring
Dental Implants

We hope that this information will help you make educated decisions about your dental care. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we offer a wide range of care, from family dentistry to specialties like dental implants, clear braces from Invisalign, and porcelain veneers. Schedule a consultation 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 4950