Provo Dentist

Building a Smile You Can Trust With Long-Term Dental Care at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Dental Health

Building a Smile You Can Trust With Long-Term Dental Care at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Your smile is a powerful asset. It conveys confidence, and warmth, and plays a vital role in your overall health. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy smile throughout your life. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive, long-term dental care for patients in the Provo, Utah area.

Why Choose Long-Term Dental Care?

Regular dental checkups and cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. However, establishing a long-term relationship with a caring dental provider offers several additional benefits:

Personalized Care: As your dental history grows, we can tailor your treatment plan to address your specific needs and concerns.

Early Detection: Regular checkups allow us to identify potential problems early on when they are easier and less expensive to treat.

Preventive Focus: By working with you on good oral hygiene habits, we can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues.

Comfort and Trust: Over time, you’ll develop a sense of trust and comfort with your dentist and hygienist, making dental visits less stressful.

What to Look for in a Long-Term Dental Provider

Finding the right dentist for you is an important decision. Here are some key qualities to consider:

Expertise and Experience: Look for a dentist who has a strong track record and stays up-to-date on the latest dental advancements.

Communication Style: Choose a dentist who listens to your concerns, explains procedures clearly, and answers your questions thoroughly.

Gentle Touch: A dentist who prioritizes your comfort and minimizes any potential discomfort during treatment.

Convenient Location and Hours: Finding a practice that is conveniently located and offers flexible appointment scheduling can make a significant difference in maintaining consistent care.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, We’re Here for Your Smile’s Journey

Our team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is passionate about providing compassionate, personalized dental care for patients of all ages. We offer a wide range of services, from routine cleanings to advanced restorative procedures, to ensure your smile stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.

Ready to Build a Long-Term Dental Care Partnership?

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule an appointment and discuss your oral health goals. We look forward to partnering with you on your journey towards a healthy, happy 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

Unexplained Headaches Or Jaw Pain in Provo?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

unexplained jaw pain

Hello! I’m Chris Hammond, DDS, of Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. I have been practicing quality general and cosmetic dentistry for many years. Today’s post focuses on malocclusion or bad bite.

Malocclusion is the dental term for a problem in the way your top and bottom teeth come together. The ideal bite is when the upper teeth are slightly forward of the lower teeth. You have probably heard of “overbites” and “underbites” but the two arches can be misaligned in many other ways as well. Crowded teeth can also cause a bad bite, as well as the opposite situation – teeth that are too far apart.

If the misalignment is very slight, there are often no related issues. However, if the malocclusion is moderate to severe, the patient is at risk for many other health issues such as difficulty chewing and speaking, headaches, hearing problems, increased decay, jaw pain, and gum disease.

The domino effect of these problems can get pretty serious. For example, chewing difficulty can trigger ulcers and gum disease increases the risk of stroke and heart disease. Consider also how these problems can impact a patient’s emotional well-being and ability to perform their job.

Putting health issues aside, these problems can get pretty costly to treat.

There are several effective treatments for malocclusion, but first, you need a diagnosis. If you suspect that you have a misaligned bite, I hope this post has given you some good reasons to speak 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

Keep Teeth Cavity Free With Braces

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Braces, Dental Health

orthodontics invisible braces Provo

Does your youngster in Provo have braces? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we provide tips to help keep them clean.

It’s more difficult to keep your teeth clean if you wear braces. There are numerous places bits of food can hide. It’s challenging to get toothbrush bristles in all those nooks and crannies.

Food bits turn into bacteria

The brackets and wires on braces create places where harmful bacteria can thrive.

If brace wearers don’t practice consistent, proper oral hygiene, their teeth can become permanently damaged.

The cycle of decay in 5 stages:

  1. The bits of food collect in the tiny spaces in and around the brackets and wires
  2. The bacteria in the food particles multiply
  3. The bacteria create plaque
  4. The plaque erodes the enamel
  5. The plaque destroys enamel and the dentin below and forms a cavity

Bacteria isn’t good for gums, either

Provo orthodontic patients can also have gum disease (gingivitis). Advanced gum disease is called periodontitis. Periodontitis can bring about bone recession and tooth loss.

Protect teeth with a healthy diet plus proper oral hygiene

Teens with braces should pay extra attention to eating a nutritious diet. This includes limiting snacks between meals. Be aware that highly acidic foods and beverages can damage enamel.

Avoid soda pop and energy drinks

There are few liquids as detrimental as soda and energy drinks, both of which have enamel-eroding acid and sugar.

How to brush with braces

Here are the steps to effective brushing while wearing braces, courtesy of Colgate:

  1. Use fluoride toothpaste
  2. Remove elastics before brushing
  3. Place your brush at a 45 degree angle against the gums
  4. Gently brush with a circular motion along the gumline where the gums and teeth meet
  5. Brush at least 10 seconds on each tooth
  6. Gently brush the brackets
  7. Press the brush firmly so that the bristles spread into the gaps between the wire and the tooth
  8. Brush in and around all of the brackets and be sure to get under the wires (a battery-powered brush may be helpful)
  9. For the chewing surfaces, use a firm back-and-forth motion
  10. Spit out excess toothpaste
  11. Closely inspect your teeth and braces in the mirror to check that they are clean and shiny
  12. Replace the elastics
  13. Rinse with a fluoride mouthwash for 1 minute to help prohibit cavities and white spots
  14. Use other oral care products as prescribed by your dental professional

It is also vital to floss while wearing braces. We’ll address that in another post.

If you are new to the Orem area and looking for an experienced pediatric dentist, we invite you to give us a call.

 

1“Protecting Your Healthy Smile while Wearing Braces,” Colgate Professional, http://www.colgateprofessional.com/patient-education/articles/protecting-your-healthy-smile-while-wearing-braces

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Smokeless Tobacco Is Not Harmless For Provo Chewers

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Dental Health

dental implants Provo

Cigarette sales at most Provo stores have decreased in the past decade, but some tobacco consumers have switched to smokeless products.

There is a common misconception (especially among teens) that smokeless tobacco is harmless. This is absolutely not true. Regardless of the specific type: spit tobacco, snuff, chew, or pinch, this form of tobacco is as deadly as old-school cigarettes.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we encounter serious consequences of smokeless tobacco use because many occur in the mouth. Oral cancer, mouth lesions, gum disease, and tooth decay are the most common dental problems caused by smokeless tobacco.

Keeping a pinch between your cheek and gum all day is worse than keeping an all-day sucker tucked in there. Tobacco contains almost as much sugar as candy but delivers dangerous chemicals as an added bonus. The dangers are two-fold: the tobacco erodes the teeth and also causes the gums to pull away from the teeth.

Precancerous Mouth Lesion Screening: Mouth lesions are painful sores that could eventually become cancer. If smokeless tobacco use is stopped, the lesions frequently disappear within a year for many dental patients.

Oral Cancer: Smokeless tobacco use increases the risk of several types of life-threatening cancers including those of the mouth, gums, lips, tongue, and throat.

Oral cancers can be as deadly as lung cancer and usually require surgery. If the patient is fortunate and the cancer is successfully removed with surgery, the collateral damage to the face, neck, or jaw is not pretty.

These are the main dental risks of smokeless tobacco. Moreover, I should also mention two other biggies: addiction and heart disease, though those are topics for another day.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we perform oral cancer screenings and mouth lesions examinations. To receive more details, or schedule an appointment, call 801-374-0070.

If you want to quit using smokeless tobacco products, we recommend that you speak with Dr. Hammond at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, your primary care doctor, or your pharmacist.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Are All Clear Aligners in Provo, UT Alike?

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Clear braces, Invisalign Invisible Braces

Invisalign Provo

If you are researching orthodontics, you have probably heard about clear aligners. They offer several advantages over traditional metal braces. The most popular advantage is the fact that they are nearly invisible.

Millions of men and women have aligned their teeth with aligners in the past twenty years since they were developed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, UT, we’re here to help with your research. Note that your orthodontist may not offer all types of clear aligners. This post is for informational purposes only.

Invisalign

Invisalign pioneered clear aligner orthodontics. Established in 1997, Invisalign has shaped more than 6 million smiles throughout the world.

Invisalign (as with the other types) uses virtual modeling software to create custom aligners formed specifically for your teeth.

First, you’ll start with a consultation where an orthodontist will examine your teeth. They will work with you to determine which Invisalign treatment plan will work best for your teeth, lifestyle, and dental goals. Then, they will set you up with aligners that are custom-made for you.

It’s vital to note that you will never be left on your own to figure out what step is next. Your orthodontist will be with you every step of the way. Finally, you just live your life, while sticking to the guidelines set out for you by your doctor.

ClearCorrect

This is how the company describes their product: Clear. Simple. Friendly. Made of polyurethane, these aligners can straighten your smile discreetly and effortlessly.

ClearCorrect is run by a team of highly trained professionals. They have added many innovations to the diagnostic and treatment process. Many orthodontists believe it’s the most convenient system for both patients and doctors.

Over 10,000 doctors use ClearCorrect. Many ClearCorrect providers offer flexible payment plans.

SmileDirectClub (And Other At-Home Systems)

Though we don’t prescribe this system, let’s talk about the “mail-order orthodontics” products. We are including an explanation of SmileDirectClub and other at-home systems so you’ll be aware of their potential potential dangers and limitations.

SmileDirectClub provides custom clear aligners without regular office visits. They advertise an average cost savings of 60% of orthodontist-administered Invisalign and similar systems. They report that the average length of treatment is 6 months.

All aligner systems necessitate a 3D image of your teeth. With Invisalign and ClearCorrect, your doctor creates the scan in their office.

With SmileDirect, you can visit one of their “SmileShops” for a scan. There are SmileShops in every U.S. state but you may have to make a long trip. They also offer you the option of taking your own impression using their at-home kit.

Your treatment is supposedly supervised by a dentist or orthodontist—but you don’t visit them in person. Your dentist doesn’t take X-rays or examine your progress.

Because of this, we don’t recommend these types of systems. Your smile is too important to use a DIY approach. Your teeth could end up worse than before! The problems could be costly to correct. In a worst-case setting, you could experience permanent damage.

The American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists have published warnings against at-home orthodontics.

Schedule a consultation at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry to determine which system is best for 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

Affordable One-Visit Tooth Fix in Provo, UT

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

affordable fix for chipped tooth Orem

Some Provo, UT people are unhappy with the way their teeth look but many mistakenly assume that cosmetic dentistry is far too expensive to pursue. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we fix teeth quickly.

Sure, a complete mouth reconstruction can be an expensive investment. Consider the cost of dental school and post-graduate training for a master-level cosmetic dentist. Consider the expense of individually creating multiple restorations at a high-tech dental lab. Consider the cost of setting up and maintaining a full-service dental practice or laboratory.

Before you give up on improving your smile, however, think about a less celebrated but extremely effective and cost-effective cosmetic dental remedy: dental bonding.

Dental bonding has a wide range of applications for unappealing teeth. Bonding can correct a tooth that is damaged, chipped, short, or discolored. It can also repair teeth that have gaps in between them.

How does the dental bonding procedure work?

First, your tooth will be slightly (but painlessly) roughed up to help the resin adhere. Your dentist will use a shade guide to determine the precise color of the composite to match the existing teeth. Your dentist will apply liquid composite resin on the tooth, layer by layer. He or she will carefully shape and polish it before it hardens. The tooth is then covered with a conditioning liquid that helps with adhesion.

Once the resin is bonded, it is further molded to the accurate shape for your bite and appearance. A laser helps rapidly bond the resin in place as it hardens. Further shaping and polishing, if required, complete the procedure. The result is a beautiful smile.

We invite you to meet the fantastic team at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo. We are proud of our venerable reputation for critical personalized attention and first-rate care. Our caring team can answer any questions you have about our top services: sedation dentistry, Invisalign, and mini implants.

We are now accepting new patients and 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

The Sweet Truth of How Sugary Treats Impact Your Smile in the Provo, Utah Area

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

The Sweet Truth of How Sugary Treats Impact Your Smile in the Provo, Utah Area

We all love a sweet treat now and then. Whether it’s a celebratory slice of cake or a post-dinner indulgence, sugary foods are a part of life. But what happens to our teeth after we indulge? At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Utah, we see the effects of sugary treats on smiles every day.

The not-so-secret culprit behind sugar’s impact is the bacteria naturally present in our mouths. These bacteria feed on sugar particles, leaving behind an acidic byproduct. This acid erodes tooth enamel, the hard, protective outer layer of your teeth.

Think of enamel as your teeth shield. When weakened by acid, this shield becomes vulnerable. Over time, this erosion can lead to cavities, those pesky holes that cause pain and sensitivity.

Here’s a breakdown of how sugary treats can affect your smile:

  • Frequency: Occasional treats are less damaging than a constant stream of sugar.
  • Form: Sticky candies and sugary drinks linger in the mouth longer, giving bacteria more time to produce acid.
  • Overall Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and calcium helps strengthen teeth and counteract the effects of sugar.

So, does this mean you have to ditch dessert forever? Not necessarily! Here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we believe in a balanced approach to oral health.

Here are some tips to enjoy your treats without sacrificing your smile:

  • Limit sugary treats: Make them a special occasion, not an everyday occurrence.
  • Choose wisely: Opt for treats that dissolve quickly, like cookies, over sticky candies.
  • Drink water: Water washes away sugar particles and helps neutralize harmful acids.
  • Brush and floss regularly: Good oral hygiene removes plaque and bacteria before they can cause damage.
  • Schedule regular dental checkups: Early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent more serious problems.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re here to help you maintain a healthy, happy smile.

Contact us today to schedule your next checkup and discuss personalized strategies for keeping sugar in check!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

47% of Adults Have Gum Disease: Are You One of Them in Provo?

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

gum disease treatment Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, we want our dental patients to be aware of the threat of gum disease. A recent CDC report provides the following data related to the prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.:

  • 47.2% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease.
  • Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of people 65 years and older have periodontal disease.
  • This condition is more common in men than women (56.4% vs 38.4%), those living below the federal poverty level (65.4%), those with less than a high school education (66.9%), and current smokers (64.2%)

What is the cause of gum disease?

Bacteria is always present in your mouth. When you don’t clean it away with brushing and flossing, it causes inflammation. The gums around and between teeth become inflamed.

The film of bacteria first turns to plaque. The plaque is fairly soft. Dental hygienists can remove plaque when they perform a professional dental cleaning.

If the plaque is not cleaned away, it hardens to tartar or calculus.

Tartar build-up can spread below the gum line, which makes the teeth harder to clean. Then, only a dental health professional can remove the tartar and stop the periodontal disease process. 

You can reverse gum disease

The good news? Brushing and flossing can get rid of bacteria before it turn into plaque! Therefore, in its early stages, gum disease can be reversed.

Let’s consider how to floss:

  • Cut a length of floss about 18 inches long.
  • Securely wind each end around your middle fingers.
  • Take hold of the floss with your forefinger and thumb leaving about two inches to work with.
  • Thread the floss between two teeth.
  • Hold the floss tightly against the side of the tooth and move it up and away from the gumline. You want to clean the space between the tooth and gum without pulling more gum tissue away, so it’s important to scrape up and out of the pocket.
  • Move the floss around the tooth to clean every surface—especially those that your brush can’t reach. As you use a section of floss, unwind from one hand to access a clean piece. With 18 inches, you should have enough to provide a clean section for every tooth. If you run out, that’s okay. Just toss the used piece and cut a new one.

Some individuals find it easier to start on one end of the upper teeth and clean each gap one by one until they reach the end on the opposite side. Then repeat for the bottom row. Whatever system you decide on, make sure you clean around every tooth, including the back surfaces of the last molars.

Regular checkups and dental cleanings help prevent gum disease. At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are taking new patients. Give us a call the request an 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

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting in Provo, Utah

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

A Guide to Understanding Cheek-Biting from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

Cheek-biting is a common dental concern that can cause discomfort and lead to oral health issues if left unaddressed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, we recognize the importance of understanding and addressing this issue to ensure our patients’ overall oral well-being.

What is Cheek-Biting?

Cheek-biting, also known as cheek chewing or morsicatio buccarum, occurs when individuals inadvertently bite the inside of their cheeks. This habit can be triggered by stress, anxiety, misaligned teeth, or habitual behaviors, such as chewing on pens or pencils. It can also be accidental based on chewing speed or a reaction to food shape or texture.

Effects of Cheek-Biting

Cheek-biting can lead to various dental and oral health problems, including:

Soft Tissue Damage: Repeated biting can cause injuries to the delicate lining of the cheeks, resulting in pain, inflammation, and the formation of mouth sores.

Chronic Discomfort: Persistent cheek-biting may lead to chronic discomfort and interfere with eating, speaking, and other daily activities.

Increased Risk of Infection: Injured tissues are more susceptible to infection, which can further exacerbate discomfort and compromise oral health.

Addressing Cheek-Biting

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we offer personalized solutions to help patients overcome cheek-biting habits and mitigate their effects:

Behavioral Modification: Our team works closely with patients to identify triggers and develop strategies to modify behaviors contributing to cheek-biting, such as stress management techniques or oral habit awareness exercises.

Orthodontic Evaluation: Misaligned teeth or bite issues can contribute to cheek-biting. We conduct comprehensive orthodontic evaluations to assess the alignment of teeth and jaws and recommend appropriate treatments, such as braces or clear aligners, to correct underlying issues.

Protective Measures: In cases where cheek-biting is primarily nocturnal or subconscious, we may recommend the use of custom-made mouthguards or dental appliances to provide a protective barrier and prevent further injury to the cheeks.

Preventive Measures

While addressing cheek-biting habits is essential, practicing preventive measures can also help minimize its occurrence:

Stress Management: Incorporating stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or relaxation exercises, can help alleviate anxiety-related triggers for cheek-biting. In some cases, just slow down a bit.

Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent complications associated with cheek-biting, such as infection or inflammation.

Cheek-biting can have detrimental effects on oral health and quality of life, but with proactive intervention and preventive measures, it can be effectively managed.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah, our dedicated team is committed to providing comprehensive care and personalized solutions to help our patients achieve optimal oral health and well-being. If you or a loved one are experiencing issues related to cheek-biting, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us to explore treatment options and regain comfort and confidence in your 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

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, Teeth cleaning

The Crucial Role of Preventative Care and Other Insights from Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining optimal oral health and preventing dental problems before they arise.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, we believe in the power of proactive dental care to keep our patients smiling confidently for years to come.

Why Preventative Care Matters

Early Detection of Issues: Regular dental check-ups allow our skilled team to identify potential dental issues in their earliest stages. By detecting problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer early, we can intervene promptly and effectively, often preventing the need for more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Preservation of Natural Teeth: Preventative care focuses on preserving your natural teeth for as long as possible. Through routine cleanings, examinations, and fluoride treatments, we can help maintain the health and integrity of your teeth, reducing the risk of decay and tooth loss.

Gum Disease Prevention: Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to serious complications, including tooth loss and systemic health issues. Regular dental cleanings and check-ups are essential for keeping gums healthy and preventing the progression of gum disease.

Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is closely linked to overall health and well-being. Studies have shown associations between poor oral health and various systemic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing preventative dental care, you’re not just safeguarding your smile but also promoting your overall health.

Components of Preventative Care

  • Regular Dental Examinations: Comprehensive dental exams allow us to assess your oral health, identify any concerns, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs.
  • Professional Cleanings: Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
  • Education and Prevention: We believe in empowering our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain optimal oral health at home. Our team provides personalized oral hygiene instructions and tips for effective brushing, flossing, and dietary habits.

Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is Your Partner in Oral Health

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we’re committed to providing comprehensive preventative care to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles for life. By partnering with us and prioritizing preventative dental visits, you’re investing in your long-term oral health and well-being.

Preventative care is the foundation of a healthy smile and a vital component of overall wellness.

By scheduling regular dental check-ups and cleanings at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah area, you’re taking proactive steps to preserve your smile and protect your health.

Contact us today to schedule your next appointment and join us on the journey to lifelong oral health and happiness.

 

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604