4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Orem Area

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Categories: Dental Health, Family Dentistry, General Dentistry

4 Important Reasons to Floss Every Day in Our Orem Area

Maintaining good oral hygiene in the Orem area is essential to overall health and wellness. Your teeth and gums are the foundation of great personal health.

Most of us in the Orem area brush our teeth twice a day. This is good practice and makes for a good start to your oral health. However, many people overlook the importance of flossing. Flossing is just as important as brushing, if not more so.

Here are four good reasons why flossing your teeth is so important:

Flossing Removes Plaque and Food Particles

Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that forms on teeth and gums. It’s a major cause of tooth decay and gum disease. While brushing can remove some of the plaque from the surface of your teeth, it can’t always reach the areas between your teeth. Flossing is a convenient way to remove plaque and food particles from these hard-to-reach areas.

Flossing Prevents Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontitis, is a serious condition that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding in the gums. It can eventually lead to tooth loss. Flossing can help prevent gum disease by removing the plaque and food particles that can lead to inflammation and infection. It can also help keep your teeth and gums strong and healthy, allowing you to enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

Flossing Reduces Bad Breath

Perhaps most importantly for most of us, flossing can help prevent bad breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and unpleasant. It is often caused by bacteria in the mouth that produce foul-smelling gases. Flossing can help reduce bad breath by removing the food particles and bacteria that can contribute to the problem.

This single benefit alone makes flossing worth the effort, but we have one more big one…

Flossing Saves Money

Flossing is a simple and inexpensive way to prevent more serious oral health problems. By taking care of your teeth and gums through regular flossing, you can avoid expensive dental treatments down the road. This can save you both time and money in the long run.

Come into Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry for a quick check-up and we can help guide you with a prevention plan that includes regular flossing. We can also recommend useful tools that will help you maintain good oral health within your lifestyle. For example, there are many new products on the market today that make flossing a lot easier and much more convenient.

Flossing is an essential part of good oral hygiene. It can help prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health problems. By incorporating flossing into your daily routine, you can enjoy a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In Utah

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Categories: Family Dentistry, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

Seven Ways You Can Break Your Teeth And How To Protect Them In Utah

Your teeth are among the most important structures in your body. They are responsible for tasks such as biting, chewing, and speaking.

Unfortunately, there are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. This can lead to pain, discomfort, and long-term disability.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we want you to be careful with your teeth. Let’s discuss the top seven ways you can break your teeth, so you know what to watch for and when to be the most careful with your oral health in mind.

1. Biting on Hard Objects

Many people have a habit of biting on hard objects, such as ice, pens, or pencils. While this may seem harmless, it can cause significant damage to your teeth. Biting on hard objects can cause your teeth to crack, chip, or even break. To avoid this, try to break the habit of biting on hard objects and stick to chewing on food.

2. Using Your Teeth as Tools

Using your teeth as tools is a common way people break their teeth. For example, using your teeth to open a bottle, tear open a package, or even cutting a piece of tape for that birthday gift can cause damage to your teeth. Always use the appropriate tools for these tasks and avoid using your teeth.

3. Grinding Your Teeth

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, is a common condition that can cause significant damage to your teeth. Grinding your teeth can cause your teeth to become worn down, cracked, or broken. If you grind your teeth, talk to your Utah dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry about getting a mouthguard to protect your teeth.

4. Eating Sticky or Hard Foods

Eating sticky or hard foods such as chewy caramel or piece of hard candy can cause your teeth to crack or break. If you regularly eat these types of foods, try to chew them on the opposite side of your mouth to avoid putting too much pressure on one tooth. Avoid biting those hard candies, too. They taste great, but they can cause a lot of damage.

5.Playing Contact Sports

Playing contact sports such as football or hockey can increase your risk of breaking a tooth. Broken teeth can occur from personal contact, contact with the ground, or contact with equipment. Even soft equipment such as an inflated ball can cause damage. Make sure to wear a mouthguard while playing to protect your teeth from impact.

6. Ignoring Dental Problems

Ignoring dental problems such as cavities or gum disease can lead to weakened teeth. Weak teeth are more prone to breaking. Make sure to visit your Utah dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly to keep an eye on your oral health and to address any dental issues before they become a problem.

7. Getting Into Accidents

Finally, accidents can happen and they can often result in broken teeth. Whether it’s a car accident, a fall, or running into a bar at the playground, make sure to seek dental care as soon as possible if your teeth are damaged. Quick reactions to damage can help ensure the best chances of saving a tooth and limiting damage.

There are many ways in which you can accidentally break your teeth. We encourage you to be aware of these risks and take steps to avoid accidents.

Remember to visit your dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry regularly for checkups and address any dental issues promptly to keep your teeth healthy and strong.

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 Your Teeth white?

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Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry, Teeth Whitening

Are Your Teeth green?

…probably not. But tooth color is probably something you have been concerned about.

One of our primary concerns at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is ensuring that our patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. But beyond just the health aspect, I also strive to help our patients achieve beautiful smiles that they can be proud of.

One important aspect of this is the color of your teeth.

To start, it’s important to understand that tooth color can vary from person to person. While you certainly don’t have pure tan teeth, you do have a color that is in a known range. Some people naturally have whiter teeth, while others may have teeth that are more yellow or grayish in color.

Additionally, factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle habits (such as smoking or consuming dark-colored beverages like coffee or red wine) can also affect the color of a person’s teeth.

As a dentist, I’m trained to evaluate the color of my patients’ teeth and recommend appropriate treatments to help improve their appearance. For example, one common treatment option is teeth whitening. This involves using a special bleaching agent to lighten the color of the teeth, making them appear whiter and brighter.

However, it’s important to note that not all teeth are suitable candidates for whitening. For example, teeth that are severely discolored or have undergone certain dental procedures (such as root canals) may not respond well to whitening treatments. In these cases, alternative treatment options may need to be considered, such as dental veneers or crowns.

Another important consideration when it comes to tooth color is maintaining good oral hygiene habits. Regular brushing and flossing can help remove surface stains and prevent new ones from forming. Additionally, visiting the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and checkups can help identify and address any underlying dental issues that may be contributing to discoloration.

Overall, we believe that helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles is a crucial part of our job here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. While tooth color is just one aspect of this, it’s an important one that can have a significant impact on your overall confidence and self-esteem.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Ten Great Reasons to Love Your Provo Dentist At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

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Categories: General Dentistry

Ten Great Reasons to Love Your Provo Dentist At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

Going to the dentist in Provo is often considered to be a dreaded task for many people in Utah. However, a good dentist can make all the difference in how you view your dental visits.

We came up with ten great reasons to love your dentist and visit often. Here they are:

ONE: Personalized Care

A good dentist takes the time to get to know their patients and their specific needs. They create personalized treatment plans that address each patient’s unique concerns. Personalized care can make all the difference in achieving optimal oral health, and making your next dental visit comfortable and productive.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we pride ourselves on the personal care we provide. It’s our goal to make you as comfortable as we can.

TWO: Comprehensive Services

Dentists are highly skilled professionals that offer a wide range of services to their patients. From routine checkups and cleanings to more complex procedures like root canals and orthodontics, a good dentist can provide comprehensive care for all of your oral health needs.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we provide a comprehensive range of services to meet your needs. We can help you with a complete oral healthy plan, services to meet every need, and a range of alternatives to choose from.

THREE: Pain-Free Procedures

One of the biggest reasons people dread going to the dentist is the fear of pain. Modern advancements in dentistry have helped eliminate pain from the many procedures we perform. Good dentists use state-of-the-art technology and techniques to minimize discomfort and ensure a comfortable experience for their patients.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we feel that your comfort is our first priority. We know you’re nervous, and that working with your teeth can bring out the anxiety in even the toughest tigers. We understand, and will always work with you to ensure your comfort.

FOUR: Preventative Care

Preventative care is key to maintaining good oral health. A good dentist emphasizes preventative care and works with patients to establish good oral hygiene habits. By catching and treating dental problems early, a good dentist can help prevent more serious issues from developing down the road.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we feel that preventative care is your best option from the start. That’s why we emphasize regular visits and a carefully personalized plan to help you extend the health of your teeth and gums.

FIVE: Education and Communication

A good dentist takes the time to educate their patients on proper oral hygiene and dental care. They communicate clearly and effectively, making sure their patients understand their treatment options and what to expect from each procedure. This level of education and communication helps patients feel more at ease and confident in their dental care.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we love to talk with our patients. We’re here to answer your questions about oral health and to discuss the options you have to maintain the healthiest smile possible.

SIX: Emergency Care

Dental emergencies can happen at any time, and a good dentist is always available to provide emergency care. Whether it’s a broken tooth, severe pain, or other dental emergency, a good dentist is ready and equipped to handle the situation.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we’re prepared to help you with those emergencies when you need us. We’ll also help you practice good oral health with a plan that will help you avoid those emergencies in the first place.

SEVEN: Patient Comfort

A good dentist understands that many patients experience anxiety or fear when visiting the dentist. They go out of their way to create a comfortable and welcoming environment that puts their patients at ease. From comfortable chairs to calming music, a good dentist strives to make each visit as pleasant as possible.

As we mentioned above, everyone at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is concerned about your comfort. We’re working to create a pleasant environment where you can relax and get the treatment you need with as little anxiety as possible.

EIGHT: Flexibility and Convenience

Many people have busy schedules that make it difficult to fit in dental appointments. A good dentist understands this and offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate patients’ needs. They also strive to make their services as convenient as possible, with features that make dental care easier to access.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we try to keep our schedule flexible with open spaces to accommodate everyone we can. If you need help scheduling an appointment or want to talk to one of our specialists, please give us a call at 801-374-0070

NINE: Commitment to Continuing Education

The field of dentistry is constantly evolving, and a good dentist is committed to staying up-to-date on the latest advancements and techniques. They attend continuing education courses and workshops to improve their skills and knowledge, ensuring that they can provide the best possible care to their patients.

Our dentist at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is always learning the latest techniques and procedures to make sure you get the best possible care available. Our continuing education goals include our entire staff and we’re all committed to treating you with the latest proven techniques.

TEN: Positive Relationship

Finally, a good dentist is someone you can trust and build a positive relationship with over time. They take the time to listen to their patients and understand their concerns, and they work collaboratively with their patients to achieve the best possible outcomes.

From all of us at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we’re excited to count you among our cherished patients. We know it takes a lot to trust someone to work on your teeth, and we know it’s something we earn through a long history of honesty and a lasting relationship.

There are many reasons to love your dentist. From personalized care and comprehensive services to pain-free procedures and preventative care, a good dentist can make all the difference in achieving optimal oral health. By prioritizing patient education, comfort, and communication, and staying up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry is a partner in your journey to a healthy and 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

Are Your Eating Habits Sabotaging Your Oral Health?

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Categories: Dental Health, Teeth cleaning

dental enamel erosion treatment Provo

Most Provo residents know that frequently eating foods high in sugar can cause cavities. Therefore, it’s important to limit candy, soda, cookies, etc. Also, remember that frequency is as dangerous as the amount of sugar.

Research has found that a higher frequency in sugar consumption may lead to demineralization more than the amount of sugar consumed. In other words, eating sugary foods in small amounts on a regular basis can do more harm than eating the occasional sugar-laden dessert. (Healthline)

Tooth Enamel Varies in Density

Before we discuss the issue further, let’s review the miracle substance that protects our teeth: enamel. While enamel is the hardest substance in the body, it’s not invincible. In fact, it demineralizes (loses some of its density) when it comes in contact with sugar, acids and bacteria.

Let’s explore additional eating habits and how they can affect oral health.

Acid is as Bad as Sugar

First, let’s talk about acids. A plethora of both healthy and unhealthy foods and drinks are acidic. Soda pop and energy drinks are especially harmful because they have sugar and acid, a dangerous combo. Plus, they provide virtually no nutrition. However, you probably don’t want to limit all acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes. Many acidic foods and beverages are high in Vitamin C and other nutrients.

You can protect your teeth by eating these things as part of a meal to limit the acidic effects. It is a good idea to eat a variety of healthy foods such as chicken, cheeses, chicken, other meats, nuts and milk. The calcium and phosphorus will support tooth remineralization.

Meal Timing Makes a Difference

The more frequently you eat the more frequently your teeth are subject to the decay process. This can be tempered by deciding on healthy snacks. And keep in mind, the later at night you eat, the more likely you will skip brushing and flossing altogether.

Enamel Erosion

While the enamel is soft, the tooth is susceptible to losing a microscopic outer layer of enamel. If the onslaught continues, the much softer dentin underneath is exposed. The dentin erodes more quickly. Eventually, you may lose the tooth.

Understand Which Foods are Acidic

Broadly speaking, the typical diet is becoming more acidic. The list of acidic foods may surprise you. They include eggs, gravy, asparagus, chicken, cottage cheese, honey, fish, ham, butter, sour cream, aged cheese, and yogurt with active cultures. Generally, foods with a high sugar or artificial sweetener content are considerably acidic. We don’t recommend cutting out the healthy foods. We just want you to be aware of them so you can make better choices.

If your teeth have become more sensitive in general, or in response to hot or cold foods or beverages, you may have enamel erosion. Call us to schedule an appointment and Dr. Hammond can examine your teeth and discuss it with you.

Is Your Go-To Beverage Affecting Your Teeth?

Now let’s talk about beverages. You probably already know that soda pop and wine are not good for your teeth. Provo teenagers that sip soda all day can have acid erosion while their young teeth should be at their densest. As mentioned, energy drinks have a multitude of teeth-damaging ingredients. Dentists are noticing the effects of their increasing popularity.

If you drink soda or energy drinks often, you may want to drink water or chew sugarless gum after downing a can. Increasing saliva production can trigger the remineralization process.

Xylitol Gum

If you choose to chew gum to stimulate saliva production, a good choice is gum with Xylitol. Xylitol is a natural sweetener that was first discovered in birch tree bark but is also found in many fruits and vegetables. Unlike most other sweeteners (natural or synthetic), xylitol is actually beneficial for your teeth.

Several clinical studies have shown that xylitol prevents the growth of the bacteria that initiates tooth decay. It also helps alleviate plaque and strengthens tooth enamel. Contact us.

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 Beautiful Smile is Timeless

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Categories: Beautiful smile, Cosmetic Dentistry, General Dentistry

Your Smile Doesn’t Have to Show Your Age in Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we know that every stage of life has its pros and cons. For example, in our golden years, we may enjoy traveling, more free time and grandchildren. However, most  retirees do not welcome wrinkles, limited mobility or dental problems.

Fortunately, your smile can be healthy and pleasing throughout your life. With cosmetic and restorative dentistry, you can have a youthful smile at any age.

Regain Your Youthful Smile

Even if your teeth are showing visible signs of wear, we can help. Do you have any of the following concerns?

  • Enamel loss
  • Staining
  • Chips
  • Missing teeth
  • Broken dental work
  • Gum recession
  • Old amalgam fillings

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we serve you with a full array of dental services including dental implants sleep apnea, and cosmetic dentistry.

Could Your Smile Benefit From Adult Braces?

Would you like to straighten your teeth? Modern braces can correct all types of tooth alignment dilemmas. Overbite? Gap between your two front teeth? Crowded teeth?

Now, individuals of any age can have an extraordinary smile that looks as young as they feel. Let’s discuss some orthodontic options.

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 teeth improve your life?

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

  • Straight teeth can prohibit decay
  • If teeth are aligned properly, you are less likely to snore
  • Decreases the risk of periodontitis (advanced gum disease),
  • Straightening teeth can help you eat a healthier diet

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

If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, you will be interested to learn about the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments. Many procedures can be completed in one visit with us at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT. We serve patients in American Fork and Lehi seeking all kinds of services, including restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Contact us for an appointment today.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Optimum Oral Health Includes Exams and Cleanings

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

oral health Provo

If you’ve ever visited our blog here at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, you’ve probably heard the advice to have dental visits and cleanings twice a year. In fact, dental professionals have been advising the twice-yearly frequency for over 50 years. The American Dental Association counsels individuals to visit their dentist twice a year as well.

Is that an arbitrary schedule? Let’s consider the reasons why regular dental check-ups and cleanings are an essential part of preventative dentistry and optimum oral health.

What does your dentist and dental hygienist do during an exam and cleaning?

Look for Signs of Decay

Your dentist has tools that allow him/her to see places in your mouth that would be extremely challenging for you to see. While a cavity usually takes over six months to become serious, your dentist can see the telltale white spots that reveal that a cavity is forming. In the earliest stages, your dentist can stop the progression of a cavity. If a cavity drills into your teeth without you knowing it, it will eventually hit the pulp–Ouch!–and you may need a root canal and a crown. As you might imagine, both are far more expensive than an exam and cleaning. Besides, your dental insurance may cover twice-yearly exams and cleanings at 100%.

Clean Out Your Pockets

If you think dental care is unnecessarily pricey, you might not like this joke. We aren’t talking about your wallet here. We are talking about the gap that forms between your gums and tooth roots when bacteria and plaque build up. It’s not only acute decay that can damage a tooth until it is beyond saving. Gum disease that leads to bone loss is just as dangerous. A buildup of plaque creates pockets of infection between the gums and tooth roots. This leads to periodontitis, gum recession, and eventual bone loss. A professional cleaning removes the plaque before it can cause the gums to loosen.

Check for Oral Cancer

The Oral Cancer Foundation reports this grave stat: oral cancer claims one life every hour—that’s 48,250 deaths a year.1

Clean Plaque and Tartar

Even if you brush and floss your teeth morning and night, plaque can accumulate. We have many patients who are vigilant brushers but are surprised when our hygienist uncovers plaque on their teeth.

Polish Your Teeth

When the hygienist polishes your teeth, it gets rid of the bacteria that allows the plaque to form. If you have , your hygienist can smooth away uneven areas below the gumline where bacteria can flourish. Plus, it feels amazing when you run your tongue over polished teeth!

Oral Health is Physical Health

Your mouth is connected to the rest of the body, but many men and women treat it as a separate entity. Some get regular preventative services for physical conditions but fail to recognize their oral health.

We’ve often wondered about this common disconnect. Did you know that there is compelling evidence to suggest that the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes increases with poor oral health? Besides, your lifestyle is significantly influenced when you have tooth pain, tooth loss, gum disease, or dentures.

Even if you don’t have dental insurance, cleanings and exams are one of the most economical ways to maintain proper oral health.

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT we are committed to the dental health of all our patients, and it’s a team effort. People from American Fork and Lehi come to us for cosmetic dentistry and the rest of their dental health needs. Call to schedule your next cleaning and checkup today!

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Who Do You Call If You Have a Dental Emergency?

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Categories: Dental Emergency, Restorative Dentistry

urgent dental clinic Provo

A dental emergency is any event in which damage to the teeth occurs and the patient needs urgent care. While a dental emergency may have never happened to you, it could happen in the future.

Some things are too pressing to wait for an appointment. How do you know if you need to call for help? Who do you call? How can you be prepared? In this article, we at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT will guide you through the process.

Some persistent questions individuals may have in a dental emergency:
“Is this serious enough, can’t we treat it at home for now?”
“Should I call 911?”
“How can I help in the moment?”
How to know if it is a dental emergency and when to seek help

If you are experiencing any of the following, call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT:

  • A knocked-out tooth
  • A broken tooth
  • An abscess with pus
  • Unexplained severe mouth pain
  • Persistent bleeding of the mouth

Should I call 911 for a dental emergency?

If you suspect you are dealing with a potential dental emergency, stay calm. In the heat of the moment a person’s instinct may be to call 911. However, paramedics and dentists would encourage you to analyze the situation.

Dental emergencies are serious. Dental offices are for an urgent dental issue. If you need treatment, dentists are the specialists for the job. Act fast and responsibly.

Calling 911 may ultimately waste your time in getting the help you need. The police cannot help in dental matters and paramedics are not dentists. They can help if you have a non-dental medical emergency, but not if it is a dental-specific issue.

We are here for you when you have a dental emergency

When it comes to your smile, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Obtaining immediate assistance is the first step in addressing the situation. When you call Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, a dental professional will counsel you over the phone. Do not hesitate. The consequences of untreated emergencies can leave permanent damage. Some serious dental infections can even threaten your life if not treated.

Our contact information is below. Save our number in your phone contacts so you will be prepared in the unfortunate event that you suffer a dental emergency. We serve patient in the American Fork and Lehi areas. We are also well know for cosmetic dentistry, general dentistry, and dental restorations. Schedule an appointment with us any time.

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 Link Between Gum Disease and Viral Infections

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry

gum disease and COVID-19 risks Provo

The pandemic has increased public awareness of the danger of viruses and the importance of a strong immune system. We at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT can help you understand the link between viruses and gum disease

Our Immune System Protects Against Serious Illness

The variation in the severity of COVID-19 illness is due, in part, to the strength of natural biological defenses.

Of course, you may be wondering why we’re discussing this in a dental blog. Does it have anything to do with dental health?

Actually, it does. Scientists have found a link between oral bacteria and viral infections.

Gum Disease is Caused by Bacteria

The oral bacteria in question is Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis for short). The “gingivalis” in its name gives you a clue to what type of bacteria it is. As you may have anticipated, P. gingivalis is the bacteria that causes gingivitis and the more advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.

Your Mouth Produces Natural Viral Protection

Interferon lambdas are a family of proteins created by cells in the mouth. These proteins protect us from all types of bacterial and viral infections in addition to the coronavirus. The danger of P. gingivalis is that it makes Interferon lambdas less effective at protecting us.

This is how one of the researchers explained it:

“Our studies identified certain pathogenic bacterial species, P. gingivalis, which cause periodontal disease, can completely suppress interferon production and severely enhance susceptibility to viral infection. These resident oral plaque bacteria play a key role in regulating antiviral responses.” Juhi Bagaitkar, assistant professor, University of Louisville Department of Oral Immunology and Infectious Disease.

Oral Health and Physical Health Go Hand in Hand

As if you needed one more reason to prevent gum disease! Not only does gum disease put you tooth loss, it makes you more susceptible to the potential dangers of viruses. To recap: if you avoid gum disease, you protect your mouth from P. gingivalis. This lets you benefit from Interferon lambdas and the virus protection they provide.

Let’s discuss basic oral hygiene practices that can prevent periodontitis and keep your smile healthy:

  • Brush at least twice daily using appropriate brushing techniques
  • Use a fluoride toothpaste
  • Floss daily using the correct flossing method
  • Get a professional dental cleaning twice a year
  • Schedule twice-yearly dental exams
  • Take care of dental dilemmas in their early stages so they don’t progress

Has it been a while since you’ve had a dental exam and cleaning? We serve patients in the American Fork and Lehi area. Our friendly team of dental professionals is here for and your family. We at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT can serve all of your dental needs. We can also serve your cosmetic dentistry needs. Schedule an appointment today

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604

Adult Dental Health for Provo Smiles

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Categories: Dental Health, General Dentistry

Preventative Maintenance For Your Irreplaceable Smile In Provo

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, our goal is preventing dental problems and keeping our patient’s smiles healthy and beautiful. We provide general and family dentistry at our dental practice.

Adult Dental Health

As a general and family dentistry practice, we have been treating patients of all ages since 1974.

We have noticed throughout the years is that many parents dismiss their own oral health. Though they vigilantly keep up with their children’s dental visits and cleanings, for some reason, they fail to pay the same attention to their own dental care needs.

How Do You Keep Your Smile Healthy Throughout Your Life?

Let’s talk about adult dental needs. Once you are past the cavity-prone childhood and adolescent years, gum health becomes critical.

Gum Disease is the #1 Cause of Tooth Loss in Adults

Did you know that 47% of U.S. adults have gum disease? In adults, periodontitis (advanced gum disease) is the most common cause of tooth loss. Fortunately, gum disease can be reversed if you catch it in its early stages.

Gingivitis

The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. The primary symptoms of gingivitis include red or swollen gums. If your gums hurt when brush or floss, it could be a sign. You may also notice unpleasant breath at times. (Others may notice it as well!) Gingivitis is oftentimes caused bacteria on the teeth and along the gum line. The most common treatment is increased brushing and flossing in addition to more frequent dentist appointments. It’s a good idea to visit your dentist every 3 months for deep cleanings and professional treatment. Your dentist may also prescribe a fluoride rinse.

Early Stage Periodontal Disease

When the infection spreads beneath your gums it allows the harmful bacteria to start attacking the bone holding your teeth in place. This may bring about redness and swelling of the gums, worsening breath and periodic bleeding. Early stage periodontal disease can’t be fully reversed, but your dentist can develop a treatment plan to prevent it from getting worse.

Moderate Periodontal Disease

At this stage, you are at risk of losing teeth. To treat it at this stage, your dentist will need to remove plaque from below the gum line (this same treatment may also be used with early stage periodontal disease) in order to help halt the infection. Since your gums are slowly detaching from your teeth at this stage, surgery can reshape your gums and close the pockets between your gums and teeth. With superb self-care and one of our savvy oral hygienists at your side, you can still save your teeth.

Advanced Periodontal Disease

The last stage of periodontitis requires extensive treatment. Your dentist may recommend surgery to prevent tooth loss. Flap surgery is common for this stage and involves cleaning the actual roots of your teeth by scrubbing behind your gums. Your dentist may also smooth or reshape your damaged bone to restrict bacteria from accumulating.

Why Do You Need Regular Dental Cleanings?

With twice-yearly dental exams and professional cleanings, you can prevent early stage gum disease from advancing to the dangerous stages. During professional dental deep cleanings, our hygienists thoroughly remove the plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. By scaling and planing, they smooth areas to make it more difficult for bacteria to accumulate.

Why Oral Cancer Screenings are Essential

During dental examinations at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT, we look for signs of oral cancer. Oral cancers are cancers in the tongue, mouth, lips, jaw, and throat. Many men and women don’t realize the seriousness of oral cancer.

Consider this unfortunate news from the Oral Cancer Foundation:

When found at early stages of development, oral cancers can have an 80 to 90% survival rate. Unfortunately at this time, the majority are found as late stage cancers, and this accounts for the very high death rate of about 43% at five years from diagnosis

When your dentist performs an oral cancer screening during your dental examination, he/she will look for red or white spots, bleeding, lumps, difficulty swallowing, loose teeth, any color changes, and mouth sores. Is is critical to tell your dentist if your bite has changed, if you have sores that won’t heal, and prolonged hoarseness. An earache in only one ear can also be an indicator.

Having any of these symptoms does not mean you have oral cancer, as they can be caused by other elements. However, if your dentist does something unusual, he/she may order additional tests or refer you to a medical doctor for further diagnosis and treatment if necessary.

We at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo UT value all aspects of your adult oral health. We serve patients from American Fork and Lehi and also perform extractions, implants, and cosmetic dentistry. Contact us for an appointment today.

Contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry:

801-374-0070

Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):

3575 N 100 E Ste 200
Provo, Utah
84604