Read Our Provo dentist Blog – Cosmetic dentistry Orem – Sedation dentistry Utah County

5 Smile Makeover Questions For Provo Smiles

Posted on March 6, 2015December 30, 2020

If you are considering a multi-procedure smile makeover or extensive restorative dental work, here are four considerations:

All At Once Or Over Time?
At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our Provo smile makeover patients can often receive several (or all) procedures in one visit. It all depends on the specific procedures necessary to achieve your perfect smile. Dr. Hammond develop a unique treatment plan for each patient after an extensive consultation and examination.

Oral Sedation?
Many Utah County and American Fork cosmetic dental patients benefit from sedation dentistry. Conscious sedation is especially helpful for procedures such as multiple wisdom teeth extractions and dental implant placement.

Cost?
We know that cosmetic dentistry is a substantial investment for most Orem dental patients. Some procedures are covered by dental plans, so if you have dental insurance, be sure to find out exactly what is covered. Many Provo residents use flex spending accounts for dental work and reap the tax advantages. Call us at 801-374-0070 to discuss dental financing options in Provo.

Healing Time?
With the latest materials and cosmetic dental techniques, healing times are often minimal. However, some treatments such as bone grafting, soft tissue grafting, root canals, and dental implants often require a short healing period. Consider how the timing of your dental visits and the necessary healing periods will affect your job and family responsibilities.

Aesthetic Results?
At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo our patients experience terrific results when doing smile transformations in phases; however, porcelain restorations are best fabricated in the same “batch” for the most precise color matching.

Call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today at 801-374-0070 to schedule a no-pressure cosmetic dental consultation.

Do You Have Xerostomia?

Posted on February 20, 2015February 23, 2015

Most dental patients in the Orem and American Fork area know that they can go to their local dentist for toothaches, cleanings, and bleeding gums (not to mention cosmetic dentistry procedures such as a smile makeover), but there are some lesser-known oral concerns that your Lehi dentist can also help you with.

Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. It also predisposes Utah dental patients to a host of problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. There are some treatments, but a lot of Provo residents experience dry mouth because of certain medications or diseases, so make sure to bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Bad breath is usually a result of bacteria build-up in the mouth, and regular trips to your Orem dentist can help you keep your mouth clean and the bacteria count within a sweet-smelling range. But, if you have good oral hygiene and regular check-ups and cleanings, then your dentist will be crucial in helping you discover the source of your halitosis.

Jaw clicking and jaw discomfort are symptoms you should have checked with your dentist immediately as they can be a signs of serious oral issues.

Hi. We’re Dr. Hammond, a team of experienced Provo dentists. We want our patients to come to us with all of their oral concerns. The friendly staff here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry would love to schedule an appointment with you and answer any questions you have about the ailments mentioned above, as well as questions about teeth whitening and Utah County dental implants. We would love to hear from you today!

Sedation dentistry
Invisalign
Mini implants
Dental crowns
Porcelain veneers

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/patient-services/

Give Me Some Air

Posted on February 6, 2015December 30, 2020

How long have dentists been drilling teeth? Would you believe 9,000 years? In an ancient graveyard in Pakistan, archaeologists unearthed skulls containing teeth that had undergone drilling. The stone-age dentists removed decay using drills constructed of sharpened flint.

Though advanced dentistry would not be possible without drilling, the sound of a dental drill can make many Provo patients’ hearts pound. However, there is another way your American Fork cosmetic dentists can remove decay. This technique is known as air abrasion or drill-less dentistry. An air abrasion instrument removes material by spraying tiny aluminum oxide particles onto the tooth. The particles work like a sandblaster spraying away the affected tooth structure.

The many advantages of air abrasion make it a popular procedure for Lehi family dentists. Because air abrasion is usually pain-free, the need for anesthesia is reduced. The air abrasion instrument does not create vibrations or pressure.

Orem cosmetic dentistry patients appreciate the fact that air abrasion instruments don’t produce that whiny drill sound that rings in your ears and makes your palms sweat. Because of this, air abrasion can be a less-frightening option for young Utah County dentistry patients. Air abrasion is often quicker and more precise than traditional drilling, leaving more of the healthy tooth intact.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide anxiety-free dentistry. If you would like to learn more about air abrasion, dentistry sedation or tooth implant cost, call us at 801-374-0070. We are located at 3575 N 100 E in Provo. The caring staff at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is dedicated to your comfort and satisfaction.

Fun Floss Facts For Utah County Smiles

Posted on January 30, 2015January 27, 2015

It’s clear that for the majority of Utah County, Orem, and Lehi residents, the most important aspect of flossing is simply that you do it every single day. However, many dental patients find that trying out a few different types of floss helps them to establish the habit and get the flossing comfort they desire.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of dental floss found in Provo area drugstores.

Basic floss is either a monofilament floss, which is usually made of some kind of rubber or plastic, or multifilament, which is made of nylon or silk. Nylon floss is less expensive, more common and is sold waxed or unwaxed.

Monofilament floss will not rip or tear, and because of this, it is thought to more easily pull in between teeth. This type of floss is sometimes referred to as “glide” floss.

Both monofilament floss and multifilament floss are sold in differing thicknesses, and this is where most dental patients would benefit from finding the size that fits. Since you should not have to snap the floss between your teeth, find the thickness that allows you to gently floss.

Dental tape is nylon floss in the shape of a wide, flat ribbon. Many Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi residents find that dental tape is the easiest floss to get between their teeth.

For those of you with braces or appliances put in by your Orem area orthodontist, there are also flosses designed to be used with these devices. Make sure to discuss flossing with your orthodontist because you don’t want to break this valuable habit just because you’re having your teeth straightened!

A good person to ask about floss advice is your dental hygienist. Here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our hygienists are prepared to answer any questions you have about flossing, brushing habits, and even cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers.

I am Dr. Hammond. Our practice, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, has been serving the Provo area since 1967. Our top services include:

Sedation dentistry
Invisalign
Mini implants
Dental crowns
Porcelain veneers

Call us today at 801-374-0070 for your appointment! You can also visit us on the web at https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/.

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/

The following blog post was used as source material for this blog:
“The Different Types of Dental Floss”, Huffington Post, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/thomas-p-connelly-dds/dental-floss_b_1643933.html, accessed on September 17, 2013

6 Reasons To Ditch Your Dentures For Dental Implants

Posted on January 23, 2015December 30, 2020

For thousands of years, dentures have been allowing people to chew foods harder than mashed bananas and flash some teeth when they smile. However, Provo denture wearers know how unstable, irritating, embarrassing, and inconvenient they can be.

Today, Orem dental patients with missing teeth are fortunate to have a tooth replacement choice that is far better than both traditional dentures and dental bridges. A tooth implant provides the total package, so to speak. An implant replaces the visible part of the tooth and – this is key – also the root.

The dental implant process works like this: A super-strong titanium post is anchored directly into the jawbone. An abutment is then attached to the post. Finally, a crown or denture is attached to the abutment. Tooth implants provide the following benefits:

Stability – Implants don’t move around in your mouth. This permits normal chewing, swallowing, and speech.
Bone Retention – The post prevents the bone loss that almost always occurs after a tooth is extracted
Dental implants prevent jaw muscle dysfunction that can occur when remaining teeth are forced to compensate for missing teeth
Tooth implants eliminate gum irritation caused by dentures
No need for denture relines
No denture adhesive needed (Remember, they are anchored in your jawbone just like natural teeth!)

Provo dental implant patients with one or two missing teeth can replace each missing tooth with a permanent implant. Provo dental patients with significant tooth loss are usually best served with an implant-anchored denture.

If you want more information about tooth implant costs in Provo or cosmetic dental financing, call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 801-374-0070. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is a full-service general and cosmetic dental practice dedicated to preventative dental care. We offer:

Mini implants
Sedation dentistry
Dental crowns
Invisalign

–Aesthetic & General Dentistry

3 Ways To Keep Your Mouth Happy, Utah County!

Posted on January 16, 2015January 14, 2015

Hi. We’re Dr. Hammond, a team of experienced dentists here in Provo. It is our goal to help our patients have optimum oral health, and today we would like to talk about something else associated with our mouths that doesn’t get as much attention as cavities or cosmetic dentistry: it’s our sense of taste.

A happy mouth is not only a healthy mouth, but also a mouth that can enjoy the flavors of all types of foods. And it turns out that many of the habits that will keep your taste buds sensitive are those that will also be good for your teeth and gums. So here are a few tips to help you better enjoy the flavor of your food.

1) Treat dry mouth. Dry mouth can create a loss of taste sensitivity, so it should be treated quickly by your Utah County, American Fork, or Lehi dentist. Plus, optimal levels of saliva are important to avoid cavities and keep gums healthy.

2) Avoid processed foods with fake flavors and too much sugar and salt. They will quickly desensitize you to more subtle, healthy flavors.

3) Don’t smoke! Cigarettes are responsible for so many horrible health issues, but many people don’t realize that their sense of taste is dulled while they smoke and the olfactory nerves can even be damaged permanently.

Thank you so much for visiting the Provo dentist blog. Along with dental health and a keen sense of taste, I want my patients to have the beautiful smiles they have always desired. So, if you have any questions regarding cosmetic dentistry such as smile makeovers, dental implants or teeth whitening, please contact us. We are located at 3575 N 100 E and you can reach us for an appointment at 801-374-0070.

Call a member of our caring staff today!

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/

Floss Pick Facts For Provo

Posted on January 2, 2015January 6, 2015

Dental patients who live in the Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi area want to keep their mouths as healthy and clean as possible. However, they are also looking for convenience, and that’s why many of them turn to floss picks instead of old-fashioned dental floss.

These little tools are quite handy. They usually have a handle that is pointed and can double as a toothpick, and a length of floss strung in a U-shaped groove. They are inexpensive and can be used more discreetly than floss.

While this may seem like a dream come true for those hoping to make flossing a more regular part of their oral health routine, floss picks are still a step below actual floss in effectiveness.

The American Dental Association has only approved dental floss for cleaning in between teeth. One issue is that floss picks can’t curve and form the angles needed for superior cleaning.

So, what is a responsible dental patient to do? The first thing is to communicate with your Provo, Utah dentist and see what their opinion is. If you love floss picks, continue to use them when convenient, but still try to use regular dental floss daily.

If you are in the process of looking for a new dentist, we hope that you consider Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. We have been serving the Orem area since 1967 from our Provo practice.

Our caring staff would love to answer any questions you have regarding flossing and other dental health concerns, as well as questions about cosmetic dentistry procedures such as teeth whitening and veneers.

Call 801-374-0070 today to schedule an exam or consultation.

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/

The following website was used as source material for this blog: http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/product-category-information/floss-and-other-interdental-cleaners, accessed on August 1, 2014

4 Reason To Look For The ADA Seal In Orem

Posted on December 12, 2014October 30, 2015

When you go to your Utah County, American Fork, or Lehi drugstore or supermarket looking for toothpaste, mouthwash, teeth whitener, or another oral care product, be sure that the product you choose carries the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance.

Today in our Provo dental blog, we are going to look at 4 ways the ADA seal can help you make good oral care choices for you and your family.

1. Products with the seal have to be safe and effective, so you won’t waste your money on something that won’t work, or worse, can harm you.

2. The American Dental Association (or ADA) only places their seal on a product after serious scientific testing. This usually means that manufacturers have to meet higher standards than those required by law.

3. When you purchase products with the ADA seal, it’s practically like shopping with your Provo dentist or dental hygienist right by your side! Who wouldn’t want that extra knowledge and information?

4. The ADA Seal is not an endorsement of one particular product or another, but rather is a verification of the claims made by said product, claims on which savvy consumers can rely.

Hi, I am Dr. Hammond of Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We also serve the Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi areas. We take pride in caring for our patients and, like the ADA, want you to have a healthy, beautiful smile. Many of our patients wonder if a smile makeover is right for them. If you’d like to know, schedule an appointment and we’ll take a look! Even just one procedure such as porcelain veneers, tooth-colored fillings, or teeth whitening can significantly improve your smile.

Our practice offers:

Sedation dentistry
Invisalign
Mini implants
Dental crowns

Contact us at 801-374-0070 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/

The following website was used as source material for this blog:
http://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/ada-seal-products/, accessed on June 5, 2013

Can You Name 9 Dental Specialties?

Posted on December 5, 2014December 3, 2014

Most Lehi people probably know how a pediatric dentist differs from an orthodontist. Some American Fork dental patients may even know the unique focus of endodontists. But few Utah residents probably know that the American Dental Association recognizes nine dental specialties. Today’s post looks at the specific disciplines within the fascinating world of dentistry and the years in which they were formally recognized by the ADA. (If you want a challenge, see if you can name all nine before you continue reading this post.)

Endodontics (1983): This area focuses on “the morphology, physiology and pathology of the human dental pulp and periradicular tissues.”¹ If you need a root canal in Provo, you may require the services of an endodontist.

Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics (2003): If you want to straighten your teeth, you need an orthodontist. Dentofacial orthopedic specialists correct facial deformities using many of the same types of appliances used in teeth straightening therapy.

Pediatric Dentistry (1995): Lehi pediatric dentists provide dental care for infants, children and teenagers.

Periodontics (1992): “Periodontics is that specialty of dentistry which encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth or their substitutes.”¹ Periodontal specialists perform crown lengthening, pocket reduction, and soft tissue (gum) grafts.

Prosthodontics (2003): Prosthodontists provide restorative dental procedures including dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures. They also perform cosmetic dental treatments including porcelain veneers, crowns, dental bonding, invisible fillings, and teeth bleaching.

Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology (1991): This specialty concerns “the nature, identification, and management of diseases affecting the oral and maxillofacial regions. It is a science that investigates the causes, processes, and effects of these diseases. The practice of oral pathology includes research and diagnosis of diseases using clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical, or other examinations.”¹

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (2001): Oral and maxillofacial radiologists analyze radiographic images (x-rays) for issues of the maxillofacial area.

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (1990): Oral surgeons perform surgery on the teeth, jaw, face, and gums. These include facial reconstruction, cleft lip and palate correction, bone grafting, dental implants, and impacted teeth.

Dental Public Health (1976): This discipline focuses on “preventing and controlling dental diseases and promoting dental health through organized community efforts.”¹

General dentists and cosmetic dentists in the Provo area are trained in a wide variety of dental procedures. However, sometimes your Orem general dentist will refer you to a local Orem specialist, or include a specialist as part of your treatment team.

¹Specialty Definitions, The American Dental Association, http://www.ada.org/495.aspx, accessed May 22, 2013

6 Ways Dental Crowns Restore Orem Smiles

Posted on December 4, 2014December 12, 2015

Dental crowns have been around a long time, and they continue to play an important role in Provo cosmetic dentistry. A dental crown, often called a cap, covers the visible part of the tooth.

Dental crowns are used for several problems common among Orem cosmetic dentistry patients:

An old crown that is damaged or ill-fitting
A broken tooth
A tooth with extreme decay
A tooth that has had a root canal
A tooth that is too small or misshapen
A tooth that prevents a proper bite

A dental crown serves both structural and aesthetic purposes. It protects a natural tooth from additional decay and damage while permitting normal function. In addition, a dental crown often prevents the need for an extraction and the bone loss that can occur with a missing tooth.

Orem cosmetic dentistry patients who get a dental crown should not assume that the tooth is now invincible. Crowns need daily cleaning and flossing just like natural teeth. The remaining tooth structure just around the gumline could still become decayed and the soft tissue around the crown is susceptible to gum disease. Chewing hard foods or using your teeth as a tool can cause a crown to crack or break. (Use scissors to open a stubborn plastic package – don’t bite and pull!) Your Provo cosmetic dentist can advise you on caring for your new crown so that it will last as long as possible. Some of our American Fork, Orem, and Provo patients have crowns that are still looking beautiful after ten years.

For information on Orem dental crown prices, invisible braces, conscious sedation, or teeth whitening, call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today at 801-374-0070 or visit https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/.

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