Not All Smile Makeovers Are Created Equal

Lehi cosmetic smile makeover

Hello Provo! Welcome to the Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry dental blog. Let’s talk about cosmetic dental smile makeovers. Some Provo patients wonder if  the term is synonymous with general cosmetic dentistry.

Are the placement of four veneers considered a smile makeover? Well, yes and no. If your smile is attractive and healthy except for some chips in your upper front teeth, cosmetic veneers may remedy the few cosmetic problems and result in a dazzling smile.

Generally, however, a complete cosmetic dental smile makeover combines several carefully-chosen cosmetic dentistry procedures performed at the same time for a complete smile renewal. In other words, the sum is greater than the parts.

For example, one treatment plan could include restoration of dental crowns, veneers for teeth that are misshapen but otherwise healthy, tooth-colored filling replacement for old amalgam fillings, and teeth whitening for the crowning touch.

I am Dr. Chris Hammond. I have been practicing general and cosmetic dentistry in Provo, Utah since 1967. Performing successful cosmetic dental smile makeovers makes my profession extremely fulfilling. Patients who plan to receive a smile makeover should take their time choosing a dentist to perform it. I invite you to schedule a consultation so we can discuss your needs and wishes. During the consultation, I can tell you about my extensive experience and show you before and after pictures of satisfied patients.

When I design a custom smile makeover, I study several elements in addition to the teeth. After all, the teeth are just one component of the patient’s face. The gumline, lips, mouth, facial shape, facial structure, coloring, and patient’s age affect the scope of the design. This comprehensive approach to a smile makeover achieves amazing results and sets our practice apart.

If you are interested in learning more about smile makeovers, call us today at 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


The Tea and Teeth Question

Provo teeth bleaching best price

What do you call a dentist who doesn’t like tea?
Why, Denis, of course.

Joking aside, a common concern for Lehi patients can be stained teeth. We’re Dr. Hammond here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Today, let’s talk a little bit about a common cause of tooth staining: dark beverages including tea.

Over time tea can stain the plaque that may eventually turn into tartar. Plaque can be brushed and flossed away. Thorough daily rituals of oral cleaning are valuable for this. Tartar (which forms if the plaque remains on the teeth for over 24 hours) on the other hand will need to be removed in office during a teeth cleaning appointment. Either way, between cleanings a wise method for avoiding tea staining is to rinse with water after drinking tea or to eat something and then to be sure to brush and floss all surfaces of the teeth at the end of the day.

If after an in-house cleaning the color of your teeth is still unsatisfactory, there is always teeth whitening as an option. Our practice offers many smile enhancing opportunities. You settle upon the problem, come see us, and together we’ll settle on the solution.

mini implants
porcelain veneers
sedation dentistry
dental crowns
Invisalign

The cost of living is going up in Lehi, Utah County, and American Fork. Come in Orem and let us share our competitive pricing, financial options and superb service with you. It doesn’t have to be costly to be valuable.

Our specialty is cosmetic dentistry. A popular service in our office is family dentistry. We would love to do dental implants if that appeals to you. Veneers, dental implants, crowns, partials. I love to have enlightened patients. Bring in your questions and we’ll get them answered.

Now you know that tea doesn’t have to stain teeth permanently. What’s your next question?

Hammond


Is Orem Flossing out of Fear?

Is Orem Flossing out of Fear?

Most Orem and Provo men and women know that flossing is an important part of oral health. The value of this simple yet vital exercise in oral hygiene has been shown time and time again. But does fear have to play a role in Orem’s commitment to the practice?

Flossing offers a chance to remove bits and pieces that a toothbrush will undoubtedly miss. But, being afraid of the ‘cavity bugs,’ ‘mouth germies,’ or the ‘dental bogeyman’ may still not compel Provo folks to floss regularly. The fear of gingivitis and gum disease or crowns and fillings from cavities work for a week or so after a cleaning, but may not instill a lasting habit between teeth cleanings.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we encourage our dental patients to look at flossing as an opportunity to start fresh just as showering and dressing for the day is a positive way to increase motivation and initiate flossing into your established routine. Flossing can be a positive opportunity to remind yourself to smile and feel happy as you approach your day. Flossing could be a time to think about the foods you are putting into your mouth and consider what improvements could be made to your diet. Living in health-conscious communities such as Utah County, American Fork, or Lehi can also help motivate you to floss regularly. The fresh air you breath on a short walk will feel smooth as your run your tongue along the ridges of your teeth near the gums.

It doesn’t have to be about fear! Call us at: 801-374-0070 The caring dental staff at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry knows that flossing can be a concern for their Provo dental patients and a brightened patient is always better than a frightened one. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer many ways to enhance your smile and self-confidence. Make a cosmetic dental appointment today to consider whether sedation dentistry can lighten your look, Invisalign can influence your flair, and porcelain veneers or dental crowns can ease your anxiety. We aim to make it a fantastic experience!

Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E
Provo, Utah 84604
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com/about-us/


4 Oral Ailments To Discuss With Your Orem Dentist

4 Oral Ailments To Discuss With Your Orem Dentist

We all go to our Provo dentist for check-ups and toothaches, but there are other less-obvious issues that your dentist can help you with. Today in the Provo Dental Blog, we would like to highlight some of the most common oral conditions that should be discussed with your dentist.

1. Bad Breath. Sure, nobody wants to admit that they have bad breath, but bad breath is usually caused by bacteria build-up in the mouth. This means that it might be a symptom of accelerating tooth decay. Discuss it with your dentist who can help you overcome this problem. (All of your Provo friends will thank you.)

2. Dry Mouth. Also known as xerostomia, this lack of saliva is very uncomfortable and can predispose dental patients to a host of problems such as tooth decay and gum disease. Some Provo residents experience it because of certain medications or diseases, so make sure to bring a list of current prescriptions with you to your appointment

3. Jaw Issues. If you have a clicking jaw or jaw discomfort, be sure to schedule an appointment with your Utah County dentist ASAP! These symptoms can be signs of a serious oral issue.

4. Teeth Grinding. If you’ve been stressed out and find that you’ve been grinding your teeth (or if your partner tells you that you’re doing it in your sleep!), discuss it with your dentist. A simple mouthguard can protect you, and if you have any damage from grinding such as fractured teeth, ask about restorative dentistry.  If you can’t change this habit now you can prevent costly dental needs such has dental crowns.

Hi. I’m Drs. Dr. Hammond of Provo,
and I want my patients to come to me with all of their oral concerns. The friendly and professional staff here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry would love to schedule an appointment with you and answer any questions you have about the conditions mentioned above, as well as questions about teeth whitening and Provo dental implants.

 

cosmetic dentistry
sedation dentistry
porcelain veneers
Invisalign clear braces
general dentistry

Drs. Dr. Hammond
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E, Ste 200
Provo, Utah
801-374-0070
/about.htm


Dental Crowns at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

Dental Crowns at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Utah County Dental crowns have been used in dentistry for over 2000 years. There is evidence that the Etruscans experimented with crowns on teeth using ivory and bone as early as 700 B.C. By 200 A.D., they began using gold crowns to construct artificial teeth. Ancient Egyptians fashioned tooth replacements out of seashells and then hammered them into their gums (Oral sedation dentistry, anyone?).

Porcelain crowns were first used in the 1800s. With the refining of metal casting methods in the 1900s, crown dentistry advanced significantly.

Today, crowns are strong, comfortable and are made to match your surrounding teeth.

Dental crowns (also called caps) cover the entire visible portion of the tooth and are cemented in place. Crowns are used to strengthen teeth that have been worn down or weakened by decay or injury. Crowns are also used to restore the original shape of a tooth or solely to improve the appearance of a tooth.

The most common types of crowns are:

  • All-porcelain (ceramic)
  • Porcelain-fused-to-metal
  • Gold

The material used is determined by several factors. If you suspect you need a crown, want to replace an old crown, or want to learn about other cosmetic dentistry procedures, call Dr. Hammond at 801-374-0070. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is located at 3575 N 100 E, Ste 200 in Provo. We have been serving clients in the Utah County area since 1996. We can recommend the best tooth restoration or cosmetic dentistry option for you.


Wear A Crown In Orem

Dental Crowns Orem

Some Orem residents who have a weak or broken tooth may want to research dental crowns as a solution to improve their smile and overall oral health. A crown is really a cap or covering that is tooth-shaped and when it is in place, it will cover the portion of the covered tooth that is above the gum line.

Crowns can be made of metals, resin, ceramic, porcelain, or a porcelain-fused-to-metal material. Your Orem area cosmetic dentist will usually put in a temporary crown while a permanent crown is being created especially for your mouth in a dental laboratory.

Dental crowns have been used successfully in Orem cosmetic dentistry for decades.

Many Orem area dentists use crowns when performing smile makeovers to cover patient’s discolored or poorly shaped teeth. Strong, natural-looking crowns are also used with dental implants.

If you think a dental crown may be right for you, check with your Orem dentist. Or, if you are searching for quality dental care in the Orem area, call us here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. We are located near Orem and have been serving the area since 1996. We are currently accepting new patients at our state-of-the art, yet warm and comfortable dental office.

Call us at 801-374-0070 and our friendly and professional staff can answer any questions you have about teeth whitening, veneers, enamel shaping, or any other cosmetic dental, general oral health, or dental financing questions.


At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, You’re Treated Like Family

Laser Dentistry Utah County

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, our Utah County patients are treated like family. We are Dr. Hammond and our relationship with our clients is paramount.

You know what puts a smile on my face? When I use advanced cosmetic dentistry to create a dazzling smile makeover for one of my patients.

If you are a 25-65 year-old Utah County area resident our staff at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can guarantee you quality preventative, restorative, general, and cosmetic dental care.

In today’s Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry blog we would like to discuss laser dentistry. It may sound scary, but laser dentistry provides an excellent alternative to drills. Many procedures performed with lasers don’t require Utah County patients to be medicated, allowing for quicker healing times.

Many Utah County patients become very anxious waiting for a shot of painkiller before a dental procedure. Laser dentistry allows for a more relaxed, less stressful dental visit. My patients also appreciate not going home with a numb mouth and drool dripping down their chin.

Utah County residents in need of oral surgery will experience less bleeding thanks to laser dentistry. Some of the procedures that are performed with lasers are treating infected root canals, reshaping gum and bone tissues, uncovering erupted wisdom teeth, and aiding in teeth whitening.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry one of our most popular procedures is porcelain veneers. We also offer cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, porcelain veneers, and dental crowns.

Utah County folks who want to experience a comfortable, relaxing dental visit and receive compassionate and professional dental care, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we treat you like family.


The Dangers of Oral Piercing

The Dangers of Oral Piercing If you live in the Provo area and are considering puncturing your lip or tongue, read this:

Infection
Your mouth is full of bacteria. Any opening in the tissue carries the risk of infection. The germs from your tongue and mouth can easily get into your bloodstream. Provo cosmetic dentists and doctors are continually treating serious infections caused by oral piercings. Oral infections can be a real problem, and should be a major consideration before getting an oral piercing.

Tooth Damage
It should come as no surprise that having a piece of metal bang around in your mouth can easily chip tooth enamel. Though tooth enamel is amazingly strong, once it’s chipped or cracked, it can only be restored with artificial material. Fortunately, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo offers many tooth restoration options such as dental crowns and fillings, but our advice is to avoid the problem if you can.

Prolonged Bleeding and Swelling
The blood vessels in the tongue are often damaged when the tongue is pierced, causing prolonged bleeding and possible build-up of scar tissue. In some cases, the tongue swells up enough to block the airway.

Gum Recession
A number of periodontal disease studies have shown that wearing oral jewelry is linked to periodontal disease which can result in tooth loss. Periodontal disease, or ‘gum disease’, can cause gum recession and exposes the root of your teeth, potentially causing hyper sensitivity and pain. Again, our advice is to avoid the problem right from the start.

These are just a few of the dangers. Drs. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can give you more information about the risks of oral piercings. If you already have damage, call 801-374-0070 to schedule a consultation.


Provo Teeth Whitening and Veneers

Provo Teeth Whitening and Veneers Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure in Provo and throughout the state.

Numerous ads for whitening products in our local Provo media contain terms such as ‘white brite’, ’22 carbamide peroxide’ and ‘peroxide teeth’. They look tempting, but how do you separate tooth bleaching fact from fiction?

First, and especially for our local Provo patients, we recommend talking to Drs. Hammond DMD at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Just because teeth whitening products are readily available in Provo, it doesn’t mean they are all safe or appropriate for every person. Getting a professional opinion is a good first step.

Don’t be fooled by smile whitening hype and risk damage, especially if you need tetracycline teeth whitening. If you have existing cosmetic dental work such as dental crowns, bonding, partial dentures or bridge work, it is especially important to talk to a Provo dental professional about worry free dentistry teeth whitening.

Teeth whitening kits are not the only way to quickly improve your smile in Provo. Many of your neighbors have benefited from porcelain veneers. There are several brands of veneers such as Lumineers by Cerinate, da Vinci and Mac. We can help you decide on which is best for you.

Veneers are sometimes called ‘instant orthodontics’ because they can correct tooth misalignment and gaps as well as provide instant teeth whitening.

Porcelain veneers can also fix chipped teeth and cover stains. The vast majority of Provo veneer recipients are extremely pleased with the results.

Drs. Hammond DMD
Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry
3575 N 100 E, Ste 200
Provo, Utah 84604
801-374-0070
https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com

Providing comprehensive dental care for Provo families since 1996.


Is a Perfect Smile Possible In Provo?

Orem Cosmetic Dentistry Are you considering a smile makeover in the Provo area? Are you skeptical of promises of a ‘perfect smile’ a ‘celebrity smile’ or ‘a dazzling, youthful smile’? Let’s talk about the most popular Provo cosmetic dental procedures and the results that can be expected.

Composite Veneers
The application of porcelain veneers at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can remedy a multitude of aesthetic dental problems and is often a better cosmetic dental solution for candidates in the Provo area than dental bonding. Veneers can correct tooth chips, tooth cracks, minor tooth misalignment, tooth discoloration, unattractive tooth shape, and disproportionate tooth size. Can a porcelain veneer create a perfect tooth? While a veneer cannot fix a decayed tooth, it can turn an unsightly tooth into an aesthetically perfect tooth.

Tooth Bleaching
Provo tooth whitening is a non-invasive cosmetic dental treatment that dramatically improves a smile. However, some Provo tooth whitening dentists will guarantee fantastic results for any patient that desires a whiter smile. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo we only recommend tooth bleaching for clients that are good candidates for the process. If you have all-natural teeth that are dull or stained, tooth whitening will brighten your smile. If you have several dental crowns in the front of your mouth, or gums that have receded, conventional tooth-whitening may not improve your smile.

Call 801-374-0070 to schedule a tooth-whitening consultation.

Tooth-Colored Fillings
If you have a mouth full of metal fillings, you may be interested in tooth-colored fillings. To get an idea of how the inside of your mouth would look without metal, have someone without any fillings open their mouth. Do you remember when your mouth looked like that? Would you like to bring your smile back to its pre-filling appearance? It is possible with tooth-colored fillings at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry.

These are just a few of the cosmetic dental solutions that create perfect smiles for our Provo clients. You can see a complete list of our services at https://www.cosmeticdentistryutahcounty.com.