A Quick Guide to Dealing With A Chipped Tooth in the Provo Area

man smiling showing off his chipped front tooth

A chipped tooth can be a minor inconvenience, but it’s important to address it promptly to prevent further damage and discomfort.

Here’s a guide on how to handle a chipped tooth from your friends at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Immediate Steps:

Rinse Your Mouth: Gently rinse your mouth with warm water to clean the area.

Apply Cold Compress: If the chip is causing significant pain or swelling, apply a cold compress to the affected area for short intervals.

Save the Chip (if Possible): If the chipped piece is large enough, try to find it and store it in a clean container such as a sealable sandwich bag. This might be useful later, and we may be able to reattach the piece.

When to See a Dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

While some minor chips can be managed at home, it’s crucial to consult your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the following situations:

  1. Severe Pain: If you’re experiencing significant pain, especially when biting or chewing.
  2. Large Chip: If a significant portion of the tooth is chipped.
  3. Exposed Tooth Nerve: If the chip exposes the sensitive inner layer of the tooth.
  4. Bleeding: If the chip has caused bleeding that doesn’t stop after applying pressure.

What to Expect at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

Your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most suitable treatment.

Here are some common treatment options:

Dental Bonding: This is a common procedure where a tooth-colored resin material is applied to the chipped area, shaped, and hardened with a special light. It’s a quick and relatively painless procedure.

Dental Veneer: For more significant chips or cosmetic concerns, a dental veneer might be recommended. This is a thin, custom-made shell that covers the front surface of the tooth.

Dental Crown: In cases of extensive damage, a dental crown might be necessary. This is a cap that covers the entire tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength.

Preventing Future Chipping:

To minimize the risk of future chipping, consider these tips:

  • Avoid biting hard objects: This includes ice, hard candy, and fingernails.
  • Wear a mouthguard: For example, if you grind your teeth at night, a mouthguard can protect your teeth from damage.
  • Maintain good oral hygiene: Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Remember, early intervention is key to preventing further complications and restoring your smile.

Don’t hesitate to consult your Orem dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for any concerns regarding chipped teeth or other dental issues.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Do You Grind Your Teeth While You Sleep?

woman holding her jaw in obvious pain

Here is the Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry guide to treating teeth grinding.

Understand
Most teeth grinding will occur while sleeping. Consistent teeth grinding might be suspected with a sore jaw and dull headache in the mornings. Anxiety or stress are not the only reasons grinding may appear. It can also be related to an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth.

Visit Dentist
Bruxism is a medical term used for grinding teeth. Bruxism can be identified by Dr. Chris Hammond through an oral examination of jaw tenderness and abnormalities in the teeth. Discuss a possible nightguard for teeth grinding.

Get Control
When tooth grinding occurs, the fear is resulting oral damage and pain. Here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we support oral health in many ways. Here are three things that may help:

  1. Control caffeine or alcohol intake as these may increase tooth grinding.
  2. Avoid gum and prohibit pen or pencil chewing. This benefits the jaw as it keeps the jaw from clenching repeatedly.
  3. Allow the jaw to relax; sometimes just setting your tongue between your teeth will help your jaw relax.

Every individual in our community from Orem to Provo deserves a good night’s sleep as well as a pain-free, headache-free morning.

It’s no problem to come down to our office at 3575 N 100 E Ste 200, Provo, Utah 84604 and consult with Dr. Hammond about this or any other dental concern. Call 801-374-0070 today to schedule an appointment.

We are devoted to healthy, happy patients. A beautiful, confident smile allows full, honest interaction with others. Don’t live with pain. Consider the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, family dentistry, or dental implants. Ask about mini implants, porcelain veneers, sedation dentistry, dental crowns, or Invisalign. Your needs are important to us.

Contact our caring staff at 801-374-0070 and discover a trustworthy practice that offers important knowledge and the highest quality of care.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


A Family-Oriented Dental Practice in Utah

A Family-Oriented Dental Practice in Utah

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch family dentistry services in the heart of Provo, just a short drive from Orem.

Our team is dedicated to ensuring that every member of your family, from young children to grandparents, receives the highest quality of dental care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Comprehensive Services for All Ages

Our practice offers a wide range of services tailored to meet the unique needs of families. We specialize in preventive care, restorative treatments, and cosmetic dentistry, making sure to address all dental concerns. Our services include:

Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings: Essential for maintaining optimal oral health for your home. Our friendly hygienists ensure a comfortable experience.

Pediatric Dentistry: We focus on creating a positive dental experience for youngsters to instill lifelong oral hygiene habits.

Restorative Procedures: From fillings to crowns, we offer solutions for any dental issues that may arise as your family grows.

Cosmetic Enhancements: Whether it’s teeth whitening or orthodontics, we help enhance smiles at every age.

State-of-the-Art Technology

Our practice utilizes advanced dental technology to enhance the patient experience and improve treatment outcomes. We are equipped with digital x-rays, which reduce radiation exposure, and our intraoral cameras allow patients to see their dental health firsthand. This technology helps us provide precise diagnoses and create personalized treatment plans.

A Comfortable Environment

We understand that visiting the dentist can be a source of anxiety for many, especially for youngsters. That’s why we strive to create a calming atmosphere where patients feel at ease. Our friendly staff is trained to handle all ages with care and compassion, ensuring that everyone leaves with a smile.

Convenient Location and Flexible Scheduling

Located conveniently in Provo, we are easily accessible for families in the surrounding areas, including Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi. We offer flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend appointments, to accommodate busy family lives.

Your Family’s Dental Home

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in building lasting relationships with our patients. We take the time to get to know each family member, ensuring personalized care that meets their unique needs. Our goal is to create a dental home where your family feels comfortable and cared for.

Whether you’re new to the area or looking for a change, we invite you to experience exceptional family dentistry. Contact us today to schedule your family’s next dental appointment!

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Beautiful Teeth Without Breaking The Bank

affordable teeth whitening Provo

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Overlapping Teeth Can Be Corrected for a Beautiful Smile in Provo

how to fix overlapping teeth Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide advanced cosmetic dentistry. That means we correct all types of smile shortcomings.

Overlapping teeth are fairly common. And while many individuals don’t mind a slight overlap, others feel self-conscious and would like it corrected.

What causes teeth to overlap?

Genetics or thumbsucking as a toddler can bring about overlapping teeth. Of course, some kids have teeth that just came in that way.

The mouth may be too small to fit all the teeth properly. Or having upper and lower jaws that don’t fit together can be a factor. In addition, an injury can knock the upper and lower jaw out of alignment. In some cases, missing teeth or extra teeth (such as wisdom teeth) can lead to an overlap.

Unfortunately, overlapping teeth can cause oral dilemmas.

When does it become important to correct overlapping teeth?

  • Overlapping teeth cause a lisp,
  • make chewing or speaking difficult,
  • result in jaw pain,
  • trigger tooth grinding or clenching,
  • and cause the person to bite their inner cheeks.

Certainly, there are benefits to fixing overlapping teeth in addition to cosmetic reasons.

How can you fix overlapping teeth? There are several methods for correcting overlapping teeth. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Discuss them with your dentist or orthodontist.

Are traditional braces the only way to fix overlapping teeth?

There are a few different types of braces available for correcting overlapping teeth:

How long does it take to fix overlapping teeth?

The length of treatment varies depending on the severity of the overlap and other factors. However, in most cases, it can take at least one year to fix overlapping teeth, depending on the treatment.

Are overlapping teeth causing you oral issues?

If overlapping teeth cause complications such as tooth or jaw pain, difficulty speaking clearly, or damaging oral habits, it is wise to consider correcting them. Correcting overlapping teeth can help eliminate bad habits like tooth grinding, clenching the teeth, and biting the cheeks.

Another thing to keep in mind is that teeth continue to shift with age. Therefore, if you fix an overlap as a child or teen, you will likely need a retainer to maintain the teeth’s position.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Teaching Children to Floss in the Provo, Utah Area

Teaching Children to Floss in the Provo, Utah area with Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

In the vibrant area of Provo, Utah, parents often seek ways to instill good dental habits in their children from a young age.

One crucial aspect of oral hygiene that can sometimes be overlooked is flossing.

While brushing is widely understood, teaching children to floss effectively is equally important for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand the significance of early dental education. Here’s why and how we encourage parents to teach their children to floss…

Why Teach Children to Floss:

Prevention of Decay: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line, preventing the formation of cavities and decay. By teaching children to floss regularly, parents can help them maintain healthy smiles for years to come.

Gum Health: Flossing isn’t just about keeping teeth clean; it’s also essential for gum health. Regular flossing helps prevent gum disease by removing bacteria and debris that can lead to inflammation and infection.

Establishing Lifelong Habits: Teaching children to floss at a young age establishes good oral hygiene habits that they can carry into adulthood. By starting early, parents set their children up for a lifetime of healthy smiles and fewer dental problems.

How to Teach Children to Floss:

Lead by Example: Children often learn best by watching and imitating their parents. Parents can demonstrate proper flossing techniques and make it a part of their daily oral hygiene routine.

Make it Fun: Flossing doesn’t have to be a chore; it can be made into a fun and interactive activity. Parents can use colorful flossers or flavored floss to make the experience more enjoyable for children.

Supervise and Assist: Until children develop the dexterity to floss independently, parents should supervise and assist them with flossing. This ensures that they use the correct technique and effectively reach all areas of their mouths.

Offer Positive Reinforcement: Praise and encourage children for their efforts in flossing. Positive reinforcement reinforces good behavior and motivates children to continue practicing good oral hygiene habits.

Be Patient and Persistent: Like any skill, learning to floss takes time and practice. Parents should be patient with their children and emphasize the importance of flossing as part of their daily routine.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in the power of early dental education and the importance of teaching children to floss. Our team is dedicated to providing parents in the Provo, Utah area with the guidance and support they need to instill good oral hygiene habits in their children from a young age.

By teaching children to floss effectively, parents can help them achieve and maintain sparkling smiles for life.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

385-375-3715

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604


Why Do You Need A Local Provo Dentist?

dental implants provoOur practice, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, offers family dentistry, general dentistry and many cosmetic dental services. If you have a family and are looking for a family dentist, give us a call at 801-374-0070.

If you live in the Provo area, it is wise to choose a local dentist for your family dentist. It will be easier and more convenient for every member of your family to come in for regular examinations and cleanings. Most busy Provo parents don’t need the added inconvenience of a long commute to a dental appointment. And what if you experience a dental emergency? A neighborhood dentist who knows your family is best equipped to handle unexpected dental needs.

In addition to basic preventative dental health services such as fluoride treatments, routine x-rays and oral hygiene, we offer sedation dentistry, Invisalign, and mini implants. You can reach Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry at 801-374-0070.

Provo parents with infants and toddlers often seek information about thumb-sucking, the health of ‘baby teeth,’ x-ray safety, and fluoride supplements. Parents with older children are often concerned about sealants, tooth protection for sports, tooth straightening, and dental financing.

We look forward to answering all of your questions. You can learn more about Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry at https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/


Losing Your Adult Teeth In Provo, Utah?

dental implant cost Utah County

It was one thing to lose that set of baby teeth but, unfortunately, these don’t grow back. (And you don’t look adorable with a gap-toothed smile.) If you feel like you are losing your adult teeth to staining, decay, chipping or brittle aging then it’s time to visit with Dr. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Since 1967, Dr. Hammond has built a practice teeming with experience, filled with kindness, flowing with a gentle touch, and carrying all the wisdom of wise, capable professionals.

When it comes to the prospect of losing your adult teeth, the preference is always to save your natural teeth. If this is not possible, we can look at other ways to maintain your ability to eat, drink, speak, laugh and smile in selfies.

Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is used where a tooth is missing. It “bridges” a gap between teeth. There is a false tooth (or teeth) attached to the surrounding teeth. Dental bridges have been used with success for generations of dental patients who have lost teeth for various reasons.

Dental Implant
A dental implant is a more extensive replacement for a missing tooth. An implant consists of an artificial tooth PLUS an artificial root (usually biocompatible titanium). With local anesthesia, the artificial root is actually inserted into the jaw bone where it integrates with the bone tissue. There are three parts to a dental implant: the artificial root, the connecting abutment, and the final crown or denture. An implant offers beauty, strength, natural function and protection from bone recession that often occurs at the site of a missing tooth.

Dentures
Most Provo residents have heard of dentures: a plate holding artificial teeth that can be removed by the patient. These are custom made and can contain varying numbers of teeth. Sometimes the entire set of upper and lower teeth have to be pulled and a denture created for chewing and speaking. Modern dentistry offers a myriad of custom dental implant-denture combinations to restore missing teeth.

Dental Veneers
If you still have your teeth, but are not happy with them, these might be your answer. Stunning porcelain veneers offer an affordable approach to cosmetic adjustments – uneven color, size or shape. These are very thin shells bonded to the front of the teeth. They beautify unsightly, but structually sound teeth.

Don’t worry about losing your grip on the adult teeth you’ve been enjoying all these years. We have experience and training in many services to meet your dental needs including mini implants, sedation dentistry, dental crowns, and Invisalign.

Schedule your initial consultation at 801-374-0070 to visit us at 3575 N 100 E in Provo, Utah. We are perfectly situated for our neighbors throughout the Lehi, Utah County, and American Fork areas.

Your consultation will include a customized treatment plan for restoring teeth, the cost of dental procedures and a schedule for completing the dental plan created specifically for you. Come with questions and leave with answers.


The Gift Of Oral Health In Orem

The Gift Of Oral Health In Orem

Many dental patients in the Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi areas may wonder why, with all the advances in dental medicine, we still send you home with a complimentary toothbrush and roll of floss. It’s true, they do seem a little old-fashioned in our high-tech world, but don’t let their simple design fool you. These tools are the best bet to prevent tooth decay, plaque build-up, and gum disease for Provo dental patients!

When done properly and consistently, brushing and flossing are an essential part of everyday oral hygiene. Brushing, which should be done at least twice a day, can be done effectively with any type of toothbrush. There is no need to pay a bundle for a fancy electric toothbrush from your Orem WalMart, just brush your teeth in small, circular motions for 2-3 minutes making sure to reach all the surfaces.

Flossing should be done once a day and is important for reaching the areas where a toothbrush cannot. A wide variety of floss can be found at Utah County, American Fork, and Lehi drugstores, so find one you like.

We’re Dr. Hammond, an experienced Provo dentist, and I want to help you enjoy your dental visits and adore your smile.

Our caring staff loves sending our Orem and American Fork area patients away with a new toothbrush and floss, but we also find it rewarding to see our patients gain renewed confidence with a smile makeover.

We’d love to answer any questions you have about cosmetic dentistry such as tooth whitening, veneers, dental implants, or any other dental health topic.

Give us a call today at 801-374-0070!

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah 84604
801-374-0070


5 Smile Makeover Questions For Provo Smiles

How Much Does A Smile Makeover Cost In Provo

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.