The Key to Successful Social Engagement in Utah is Good Dental Hygiene

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Categories: Aesthetic dentistry, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

The Key to Successful Social Engagement in Utah is Good Dental Hygiene

Social interaction plays a vital role in personal and professional relationships. It’s crucial to put your best foot forward when it comes to social engagement. While many factors contribute to making a positive impression, one aspect that often gets overlooked is dental hygiene.

You can dress for success, make yourself up with the best of Maybelline, and start every conversation with a joke everyone will love. However, the rule of thumb is that it all comes down to your smile.

Your smile speaks volumes, and maintaining good oral health can significantly impact your confidence, attractiveness, and overall social success in Utah.

It all starts with the importance of good dental hygiene and 5 quick tips from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for achieving a healthy and radiant smile.

1. Boosting Confidence

Confidence is a key component of successful Utah social engagement. When you have a healthy smile, you naturally exude confidence, which can make you more approachable and likable. Good dental hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry all go a long way to helping you prevent issues such as bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. By taking care of your oral health, you can eliminate self-consciousness and enjoy the freedom to engage fully in social situations.

2. Enhancing Attractiveness

A smile is often considered one of the most attractive features a person can possess. Maintaining good dental hygiene helps keep your teeth clean, bright, and free from unsightly stains. Regular brushing and flossing help remove plaque and tartar, preventing discoloration and preserving the natural whiteness of your teeth. Additionally, taking care of your gums ensures that your smile appears healthy and vibrant. A beautiful smile can be a powerful tool for social engagement. A healthy smile will make you more approachable, memorable, and appealing.

3. Promoting Fresh Breath

Nothing can be more off-putting than bad breath when engaging with others. Poor dental hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria, resulting in halitosis (aka: bad breath). By practicing good oral care habits, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing regularly, and using mouthwash, you can effectively eliminate bacteria and maintain fresh breath. Having pleasant breath will boost your confidence during social interactions and prevent potential embarrassment.

4. Fostering Positive First Impressions

First impressions are crucial, and your smile is often the first thing people notice about you. A well-maintained smile demonstrates that you value personal care and hygiene, which can leave a lasting positive impression. Clean, healthy teeth contribute to an overall attractive appearance and indicate that you take pride in your self-presentation. When you engage in social interactions with a confident smile, you’re more likely to make a strong and favorable impression on others.

5. Maintaining Overall Health

Maintaining good dental hygiene not only benefits your social life but also contributes to your overall health and well-being. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory problems, and even certain cancers. By practicing regular oral care and attending regular dental check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo Utah, you can prevent oral infections, tooth loss, and other dental issues that can negatively impact your overall health and social impressions.

In the pursuit of successful social engagement, good dental hygiene should not be underestimated.

Taking care of your teeth and gums through regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits not only ensures a healthy smile but also boosts confidence, enhances attractiveness, and promotes fresh breath.

A radiant smile can create a positive first impression and open doors to meaningful personal and professional relationships. Remember, your dental hygiene is an investment in yourself, leading to improved social interactions, increased self-assurance, 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

Look Younger By Straightening Your Teeth

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Categories: Smile Gallery, Smile Makeover, Teeth cleaning, Teeth Whitening

invisible braces for adults Provo

Today’s message is for men and women in their golden years who want to improve their smile by straightening their teeth.

There are many advantages to retirement. Waking up whenever you dang well please. Time to devote to your favorite hobbies or humanitarian causes. Traveling. Grandchildren.

Braces Aren’t Just For Teens

It’s not all a picnic, however. Many older people have health dilemmas, limited mobility, and financial concerns. Though some conditions can’t be avoided, others can. Crooked teeth, for instance.

Could Your Smile Benefit From Adult Braces?

Orthodontics can fix all types of tooth alignment dilemmas. Overbite? The gap between your two front teeth? Crowded teeth?

With modern orthodontics at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, older people can have a fantastic smile that looks as young as they feel.

Let’s discuss some orthodontic options.

Self-ligating Braces

Traditional braces have brackets and an archwire. The brackets are mounted to the teeth and the archwire is attached to the brackets. With self-ligating braces, the archwire is connected to the brackets with a spring clip. This replaces the plastic color band necessary with conventional metal braces.

Invisalign

Invisalign uses clear aligners instead of metal or ceramic brackets. With Invisalign aligners, you switch aligners every couple of weeks as your teeth gently shift into place.

How can straightening crooked teeth benefit you in your golden years?

We all know that a beautiful smile improves one’s appearance. Everyone wants to look more attractive. However, the benefits aren’t purely aesthetic.

  • You are less likely to snore if your teeth are aligned properly
  • They feel good when you rub your tongue over them!
  • You are less likely to experience gingivitis (gum disease)
  • Straight teeth can prohibit cavities
  • You are less likely to feel tooth pain due to displacement or misalignment

Braces + Tooth Implants for a Complete Smile Makeover

Regardless of your age, it is not too late to improve your smile–even if you have some missing teeth. Braces combined with dental implants can transform a smile.

If you would like to discuss teeth straightening, I invite you to schedule an adult braces consultation by calling 801-374-0070.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Embracing the Social Importance of a Complete Smile in Utah

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Embracing the Social Importance of a Complete Smile in Utah

A confident smile has always been a powerful social asset, and one of its key components is a complete set of healthy teeth.

Tooth restoration, with its various techniques and advancements, has transformed the lives of countless individuals by restoring their dental aesthetics and functionality.

Let’s review the significance of tooth restoration in Utah and look into the social importance of having all your teeth.

The Aesthetic Appeal

Like every other, our Utah culture places great emphasis on physical appearance, and the smile plays a crucial role in creating a positive first impression. Teeth that are damaged, missing, or discolored can detract from your overall attractiveness and self-esteem. Tooth restoration procedures such as dental implants, crowns, veneers, and dentures offer solutions to address these aesthetic concerns.

By restoring missing or damaged teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, individuals can regain a beautiful smile that enhances their facial features and boosts their self-confidence. A complete set of healthy teeth can contribute to a more youthful appearance, creating a positive impact on personal and professional interactions.

Enhanced Communication

Communication is a cornerstone of social interaction, and oral health plays a pivotal role in effective communication. Missing teeth can significantly impact speech clarity, leading to difficulties in pronunciation, articulation, and overall communication.

Tooth restoration techniques enable individuals to regain their ability to speak clearly, improving their confidence in social settings. By repairing or replacing missing teeth, individuals can overcome speech impediments, enabling them to express themselves with ease and participate fully in conversations, both personal and professional.

Psychological Well-being

The social significance of having all your teeth extends beyond mere appearance and communication. Dental problems, such as missing or damaged teeth, can have a profound impact on an individual’s psychological well-being. Feelings of embarrassment, shame, and self-consciousness about one’s teeth can lead to social withdrawal and a decline in overall quality of life.

Tooth restoration procedures provide Orem residents with a renewed sense of self-esteem and self-worth. The ability to smile confidently and without reservation can positively impact mental health, leading to increased social engagement, improved relationships, and overall happiness.

Functional Benefits

Beyond the aesthetic and social aspects, the functional benefits of tooth restoration for our local Orem community residents are equally important. Our teeth are vital for proper chewing, which is essential for overall health and nutrition. Missing or damaged teeth can significantly restrict a person’s diet, leading to nutritional deficiencies and a decline in overall well-being.

Tooth restoration procedures at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry such as dental implants and dentures allow individuals to regain their ability to chew and enjoy a wide range of foods. This restoration of functionality not only improves nutrition but also contributes to our enjoyment of life, including socializing around meals and experiencing the pleasure of eating without restrictions.

Tooth restoration at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is not merely a matter of cosmetic improvement; it holds immense social importance. The ability to smile confidently, communicate effectively, and enjoy a full range of foods are crucial factors that contribute to an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life.

The advancements in dental technology and techniques at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry have made it possible for anyone to restore their dental health and aesthetics effectively. If you find yourself struggling with missing or damaged teeth, consider consulting with the professionals at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to explore the tooth restoration options available to you.

Embrace the transformative power of a complete smile and enjoy the social benefits a healthy smile can bring.

Remember, a radiant smile not only enhances your physical appearance but also radiates the positive energy and confidence that can leave a lasting impression on others and open doors to new social opportunities.

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 Vital Importance of Caring for Your Gums in Utah

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

The Vital Importance of Caring for Your Gums in Utah

When it comes to maintaining oral health, many people focus primarily on their teeth.

However, the significance of gum care should never be overlooked. Healthy gums play a crucial role in overall oral well-being and are essential for preserving the stability and longevity of your teeth.

Let’s look at a few reasons why it’s important to take care of your gums…

The health of your gums is closely linked to your overall well-being. Research has established a connection between gum disease and several systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, and complications during pregnancy. By prioritizing gum care with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can reduce the risk of these health problems and maintain your overall physical well-being.

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a prevalent oral condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It starts with gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums caused by plaque buildup. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease characterized by gum recession, bone loss, and potential tooth loss. By practicing good oral hygiene, which includes regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can prevent gum disease and its associated complications.

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. When gum health deteriorates, the supporting tissues and bone structure around the teeth weaken, compromising their stability. By taking care of your gums, you can maintain the integrity of the supporting structures and preserve your natural teeth for a lifetime. This not only contributes to better oral function but also enhances your appearance and self-confidence.

Unhealthy gums can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. As gum disease progresses, you may experience symptoms such as bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum sensitivity, and gum recession. These symptoms can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty in eating, speaking, and enjoying daily activities. By maintaining good gum health, you can prevent these unpleasant symptoms and ensure a pain-free oral condition.

Your gums play a significant role in the aesthetics of your smile. Healthy gums provide a frame for your teeth, and their proper positioning and color contribute to an attractive smile. In contrast, gum disease can cause gum recession, making the teeth appear longer and creating an uneven gumline. By caring for your gums, you can achieve a harmonious balance between your gums and teeth, enhancing the overall beauty of your smile.

Confidence is essential for personal and professional success, and your oral health plays a significant role in your self-assurance. Unhealthy gums can lead to issues such as bad breath and an unattractive smile, which can negatively impact your confidence in social and professional interactions. By investing in gum care with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, you can maintain fresh breath, a vibrant smile, and the confidence to engage fully in every aspect of your life.

Taking care of your gums is not just an afterthought; it is a vital aspect of maintaining optimal oral health.

Healthy gums contribute to overall well-being, help prevent gum disease, preserve natural teeth, and enhance aesthetics. By practicing good oral hygiene, attending regular dental check-ups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, and being mindful of gum health, you can enjoy a beautiful smile, avoid painful complications, and promote your long-term oral and overall health.

Remember, caring for your gums is an investment in your well-being and a key component of a confident and fulfilling life.

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 You Should Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Why You Should Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Having a bright, healthy smile can be a major confidence booster.

Professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is one of the most effective ways to achieve a healthy smile. Not only does it help to remove surface stains and discoloration, but it also helps to promote overall oral health.

Professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can brighten your smile and improve your overall health.

Firstly, it is important to understand what professional teeth cleaning entails. During a professional teeth cleaning, a Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums. We’ll also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and give your smile a brighter appearance.

One of the main benefits of professional teeth cleaning is that it can help to prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a serious oral health condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. By removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, a professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can help to prevent the development of gum disease.

Another benefit of professional teeth cleaning is that it can help to improve your overall oral health. During the cleaning, our Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or other issues. By catching these issues early, we can help you take steps to address them before they become more serious.

In addition to improving your oral health, professional teeth cleaning can also have cosmetic benefits. By removing surface stains and discoloration, a professional teeth cleaning can help to brighten your smile and give you a more youthful appearance. This can be particularly beneficial if you have stained or discolored teeth due to factors such as smoking, drinking coffee or red wine, or other staining foods.

Finally, it is important to note that professional teeth cleaning at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is a relatively quick and painless procedure. While some people may experience slight discomfort or sensitivity during the cleaning, it is generally well-tolerated and does not require any anesthesia or other sedation.

Professional teeth cleaning is an important part of maintaining good oral health and achieving a bright, healthy smile. By removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, it can help to prevent gum disease and other oral health issues. Additionally, by removing surface stains and discoloration, it can give you a more confident and youthful appearance. If you have not had a professional teeth cleaning in a while, now is the time to schedule an appointment with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo Utah.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Provo Utah

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Avoiding Tooth Decay in Provo Utah

Tooth decay is a common dental problem that affects people of all ages in Provo Utah.

Tooth decay is caused by the buildup of plaque on the teeth. That plaque can harbor bacteria that produce acid. This acid can erode the enamel of your teeth which leads to cavities and tooth decay. The impact of tooth decay can be significant, including pain, infection, and even tooth loss.

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent tooth decay and protect your oral health in the Orem area.

The impact of tooth decay can vary depending on the severity of the problem. In the early stages, tooth decay may not cause any symptoms, and the damage can be reversed with proper dental care. However, as tooth decay progresses it can lead to a range of problems.

Some of the most common effects of tooth decay are progressive, including:

  • Tooth pain and sensitivity: As the enamel wears away, the underlying layers of the tooth become exposed. This can cause sensitivity to hot or cold foods and beverages and may lead to sharp, throbbing pain. If you are experiencing these symptoms, visit Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a checkup as soon as you can.
  • Cavities: When tooth decay progresses, it can lead to the formation of cavities. These are small holes in the teeth that can become larger over time if left untreated. Our staff at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can fix cavities before they become a significant problem, but we have to catch them early. Come in to Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for regular checkups to help prevent cavities, and to catch them before they become a significant problem.
  • Infection: If tooth decay is not treated, it can eventually reach the pulp of the tooth, where the nerves and blood vessels are located. This can lead to infection, which can cause pain, swelling, and even tooth loss. This is a severe and advanced stage of tooth decay and we want to help you avoid this critical concern. If you are experiencing an infection, come in to Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry immediately and let us get you on a treatment plan.
  • Bad breath: As a special bonus, the bacteria that cause tooth decay can also contribute to bad breath. At the very least, your social status may be at risk. Worse yet, this can be an early sign of poor oral habits. We can help you assess your condition and prescribe treatment to restore your oral health and get you back on your feet.

To prevent tooth decay and its impact, there are several simple steps we recommend:

Brush and floss regularly: Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day can help remove plaque and prevent tooth decay. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste, which can strengthen the enamel of your teeth.

  • Limit sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can contribute to the buildup of plaque and increase your risk of tooth decay. Try to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks. You may find that this advice aligns well with good diet decisions, too.
  • Visit your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly: Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and identify any problems early on. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can also recommend treatments and procedures to protect your teeth.
  • Use dental sealants: Dental sealants are a thin, protective coating that can be applied to the back teeth. They can help prevent tooth decay by sealing out bacteria and food particles. Ask us about dental sealants on your next visit and let’s discuss whether this is a good option for you and your family.
  • Consider fluoride treatments: Fluoride treatments can be applied to the teeth to help strengthen the enamel and prevent tooth decay. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can recommend the best fluoride treatment for your needs; all we need to do is a quick checkup to see if this is the best treatment for you.

Tooth decay can have a significant impact on your oral health and overall well-being. By taking simple steps to prevent tooth decay, such as brushing and flossing regularly, limiting sugary foods and drinks, and visiting your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly, you can protect your teeth and maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Take 5: Straight Talk About Braces

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Braces, Clear braces, Cosmetic Dentistry

invisible braces ProvoHello, I’m Dr. Chris Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. I support healthy oral hygiene and regular, consistent check-ups. Hygiene for braces is a bit different.

Here are five important concerns to keep in mind with braces:

1. Be Careful What You Eat
Sweets and extra food stuck in hard-to-notice spaces may lead to plaque and yellowing around the appliances in your mouth. Avoid sweets, juices, sodas, anything that will stain your teeth. Also, sticky things like gum and caramel can break the equipment in your mouth.

2. Consider a Mouthguard
Sports are the center of life for many Provo families. We’re an active community. I love that. A quality mouthguard provides important protection for both your teeth and braces.

3. Take Time for Gum Health
Maintaining healthy gums requires deliberate brushing and flossing. In the past, two minutes of quality brushing was acceptable. Braces are trickier to clean. What’s another minute to make sure every nook and cranny is taken care of?

4. Check the Mirrors
Humans are exceptional at noticing flaws. Check your smile often in a mirror to keep your braces free of obvious food particles.

5. Smile with Confidence
At first, people will notice the change in your smile. But if you’re relaxed about your new braces, soon your friends will simply look past them without even noticing.

Thanks for visiting my blog today, hope it helps.

I’ve been treating patients in Orem, American Fork, Lehi, and beyond since 1967. You name it – dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry—we do it.

Meet with me today and we can go over the possibilities and uncomplicated options to meet your needs. Can’t wait to see 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

Your Dentist Provides Comprehensive Oral Care

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

top dental practice Orem

How does your dentist help you stay healthy?

Most men and women know that they can go to their dentist if they chip a tooth or have a toothache. Because of this, they may not realize how many other health issues your dentist can help you with.

A full-service dental practice provides comprehensive oral health care.

Bad Breath

Bad breath is usually due to bacteria build-up in the mouth. Perhaps, however, you have unpleasant breath even though you brush and floss daily. If that’s the case, talk to your dentist. She or he can help you discover the cause of your problem. It could be an infection or a side effect of prescription medications. You need a professional diagnosis and we are here for you.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, technically called xerostomia, is caused by a lack of saliva and can be quite uncomfortable. Reduction of saliva flow is a common dilemma, especially among older men and women. However, people of all ages experience the symptoms of dry mouth at one time or another. These symptoms include a dry, red tongue, difficulty swallowing, and persistent sore throat.

Unfortunately, it can result in a host of problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. A lot of men and women experience dry mouth because of medications or medical conditions. Make sure you bring a list of current medications with you to your appointment.

Temporomandibular Joint and Muscle Disorder (TMD)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge-type joint that allows you to open and close your mouth. If you have pain or clicking in your jaw, you may have TMD. But the first step is diagnosing the cause of the malady. For example, teeth clenching or grinding can cause or exacerbate TMD. Your dentist can tell if you grind your teeth in your sleep. The condition can also be caused or aggravated by injury or arthritis. Some people who experience TMD notice flare-ups when they are under a lot of stress. If stress is the only cause, stress-reducing habits can help you prevent it or decrease the severity.

Snoring

Your dentist can help stop your snoring whether or not you have OSA. Many dentists in the Provo area provide Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT). With OAT, a custom-made mouthpiece helps keep your airway open throughout the night. If your bed partner tells you that you snore, do him or her a favor and get professional help!

Oral Cancer

Dentists also perform oral cancer checks when they examine a patient. Oral cancer accounts for about three percent of all cancers diagnosed each year in the U.S. This amounts to 53,000 new cases annually. That means thousands of Utah residents receive the grim news every year. Early detection is critical for all types of cancer, but especially so for cancers of the mouth and throat.

Teeth Grinding

Your dentist may also be able to help you with teeth grinding. Tooth grinding while sleeping can wreak havoc on your teeth as well as cause severe headaches.. If you suspect that you grind your teeth at night—schedule a consultation and evaluation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. It’s not just an annoyance, teeth grinding can cause headaches, sleep problems and put you at risk of decay and gum recession.

Sports Protection

Your dentist may also create custom sports mouthguards. If you or your child participates in a contact sport, talk to your dentist about a quality, custom-fitted mouthguard.

If you have questions about any of these issues or want to schedule an exam, give us a call today. We look forward to meeting 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

Dry Mouth Can Cause Dental Problems

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

dry mouth treatment Provo

A decline of saliva flow resulting in a dry mouth is a common problem, especially among older men and women.

Dry mouth is not only uncomfortable, it can cause tooth damage. Saliva is needed to keep the mouth lubricated, wash the food from teeth, and neutralize the acids that can cause plaque. Extensive tooth decay can occur in the absence of saliva for dental patients with chronic dry mouth.

Symptoms of dry mouth include:

  • Dry, red or grooved tongue
  • Persistent sore throat or hoarseness
  • Sticky feeling in the mouth
  • Saliva that seems thick and stringy
  • Bad breath
  • Difficulty chewing, speaking and swallowing
  • Changes in taste
  • Difficulty wearing dentures (Mayo Clinic)

Contributing conditions include medications and treatments, reduction in the body’s power to metabolize medication, chronic health problems and poor nutrition.

For example, chemotherapy medication can curtail saliva production and radiation treatments to the head and neck can damage salivary glands, decreasing saliva production.

Other medical conditions include diabetes, stroke, or yeast infection in the mouth.

Decongestants, blood pressure medications, antidepressants, and painkillers (all used extensively in Provo) are some of the medications that can result in dry mouth.

It is common for allergy-prone Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental patients to complain of dry mouth when they start taking antihistamines during the hay fever season.

The following can also contribute to dry mouth:

  • Snoring or breathing through the mouth
  • Drinking alcohol
  • Tobacco use (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, chewing tobacco)
  • Recreational drugs

If you are plagued with dry mouth, it’s critical to pay special attention to your dental health. The first step is to talk to a professional. Call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to schedule an appointment 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

Can I have my Utah cake and eat it too (and still have healthy teeth?)

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry

Can I have my Utah cake and eat it too (and still have healthy teeth?)

Eating sweets and maintaining healthy teeth can be a tricky balance.

While it’s always tempting to indulge in sugary treats in our Orem area, too much sugar can lead to tooth decay and other oral health problems.

With a few simple strategies, you can enjoy your favorite Utah treats and still maintain healthy teeth.

The key to preventing tooth decay in Utah is to limit the amount of time your teeth are exposed to sugar. When you eat sweets, the sugar combines with the bacteria in your mouth to form an acid that can erode your tooth enamel. This acid attack can last for up to 20 minutes after you finish eating. The more frequently you consume sweets, the more time your teeth are exposed to this acid.

Eating sweets at bedtime can lengthen the amount of time sugary acid can impact your teeth. For this reason, we recommend you avoid eating sweets in bed. Make sure to brush before you hit the sack to ensure your mouth is clear of bacteria-feeding sugars that can contribute to tooth decay and other oral problems.

To minimize the impact of sugar on your teeth, it’s best to eat sweets as part of a meal rather than as a snack on its own. When you eat with a meal, your mouth produces more saliva, which can help neutralize harmful acids and rinse away food particles. Eating sweets with a meal also limits the amount of time your teeth are exposed to sugar, and hopefully reduces the amount of sugar you need to be satisfied.

Another strategy for maintaining healthy teeth while eating sweets is to choose sweets that are less harmful to your teeth. Sticky, chewy candies and sweets that stay in your mouth for a long time, like lollipops, are the worst offenders when it comes to tooth decay. Sweets that dissolve quickly are a better choice, as they spend less time in your mouth.

If you do indulge in sweets, it’s important to brush and floss your teeth afterward. This will help remove any food particles and plaque that may have accumulated on your teeth. If you’re unable to brush and floss after eating sweets, try rinsing your mouth with mouthwash or water or chewing sugar-free gum to help increase saliva flow.

Regular dental checkups at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry are another important strategy for maintaining healthy teeth. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can identify and treat any oral health issues before they become more serious problems. We can also provide guidance on how to maintain good oral hygiene and make recommendations on the best foods to eat for healthy teeth.

Enjoying sweets doesn’t have to mean sacrificing healthy teeth. By limiting your sugar intake, choosing sweets that are less harmful to your teeth, brushing and flossing regularly, and visiting your friendly dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for regular checkups, you can indulge in your favorite Utah treats and still maintain a healthy 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