Solutions for Missing Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo, Utah

Solutions for Missing Teeth at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Provo, Utah Area

A complete smile plays a vital role in our overall well-being.

Missing teeth can impact your appearance and your ability to eat, speak, and chew comfortably.  At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, a leading dental practice in Provo, we understand the challenges associated with missing teeth and offer a variety of personalized solutions to restore your smile and confidence.

The Impact of Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can have a significant impact on your life.  Some of the consequences to consider include:

  • Aesthetics: Missing teeth can detract from your smile and self-confidence.
  • Oral Function: Chewing and speaking can become difficult, affecting your overall well-being.
  • Jawbone Health: Missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw, impacting the structure of your face and potentially affecting neighboring teeth.

Dental Solutions for Missing Teeth

Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective options to replace missing teeth and restore a healthy, functional smile.  At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we will work closely with you to understand your needs and recommend the most suitable solution, which may include:

  • Dental Implants: These titanium posts act as artificial tooth roots, surgically placed in the jawbone. Implants provide a strong foundation for a natural-looking crown, bridge, or denture, offering excellent long-term functionality and aesthetics.
  • Dental Bridges: Bridges are fixed restorations that anchor to healthy teeth on either side of the gap. They are a strong and stable solution for replacing one or more missing teeth.
  • Dentures: Traditional dentures are removable appliances that replace a full arch of missing teeth. They are a cost-effective option but may require some adjustment to get used to. Implant-supported dentures offer improved stability and comfort.

The Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry Difference

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we are committed to providing comprehensive dental care tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced team will conduct a thorough evaluation of your oral health to determine the best course of treatment for replacing missing teeth. We utilize advanced technology and techniques to ensure a comfortable and successful treatment experience.

Taking the First Step Towards a Complete Smile

If you are missing teeth and considering replacement options, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and develop a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile’s function and beauty.

Let us help you regain your confidence and enjoy the benefits of a complete smile once again.

 

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?

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


How Is Snoring Different From Sleep Apnea?

sleep apnea dentist Provo

It’s estimated that 50% of people snore at some point during their life.

Sleep apnea is a more serious, but also common sleep disorder. Snoring and sleep apnea are related. Many people who snore also have sleep apnea. However, the conditions are not always present together. Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry can determine if your sleep apnea is related to your oral health in Provo.

Why Is Sleep Apnea So Dangerous?

Snoring alone doesn’t cause breathing to stop. People who suffer from sleep apnea actually stop breathing. This can happen many times during the night. When the brain is deprived of oxygen—not surprisingly—serious problems can occur. Even death.

Sleep apnea sufferers are at risk for heart problems including high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. They are also at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

One of the most common problems is daytime fatigue. This makes ordinary activities overwhelming. Untreated sleep apnea lowers the quality of life.

Sleep apnea doesn’t just affect the person with the condition. Their bed partner is also deprived of restorative sleep and, as such, is at risk of health complications.

Wondering if your health issues are a result of sleep apnea?

If you suffer from daytime sleepiness, or your partner says you stop breathing temporarily during sleep, see your doctor right away. If you want to start out with a specialist, ask your primary doctor for a recommendation. In the U.S., the American Board of Sleep Medicine certifies physicians who treat sleep disorders.

Your doctor will diagnose whether you have sleep apnea and which of the three types you have. This may require a visit to a sleep disorder clinic.

If your physician diagnoses your condition as Obstructive Sleep Apnea, don’t assume that there is only one treatment.

Sleep apnea can be treated with an oral appliance, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), or surgery.

If your medical doctor believes you are a candidate for a dental appliance, consult a dentist who specializes in the treatment of sleep disorders.

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

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


Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in Provo

Teeth Whitening Options at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry in the Orem area

A bright, white smile projects warmth, and health, and makes a positive first impression. But over time, teeth can lose their natural luster, becoming dull or yellow due to various factors. If you’re looking to recapture the brilliance of your smile, Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, a leading dental practice in Provo, Utah, can help. We offer a variety of effective teeth whitening solutions to address discoloration and restore a smile you can be proud of.

Understanding Teeth Discoloration

Several factors contribute to yellowing teeth. The most common culprits include:

Diet: Regular consumption of staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries can leave behind pigments on tooth enamel.

Age: As we age, the outer layer of enamel thins, revealing the dentin underneath, which has a naturally yellow hue.

Smoking and Tobacco Use: Nicotine and tar from cigarettes and chewing tobacco stain teeth, leading to a yellow or brown discoloration.

Medications: Certain medications can have side effects that discolor teeth.

Tailored Teeth Whitening Solutions at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry

At Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry, we understand that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for teeth whitening.  We offer a personalized consultation to determine the cause of your discoloration and recommend the most suitable cosmetic dental option.

Here are some of the methods we provide:

In-Office Whitening: This professional treatment offers dramatic results in a single appointment. A powerful bleaching agent is applied to the teeth under controlled conditions, lightening discoloration.

Take-Home Whitening: This convenient option allows you to whiten your teeth at your own pace in the comfort of your home. Custom-made whitening trays are filled with a bleaching gel and worn for a specific amount of time each day.

Combination Therapy: We may recommend combining in-office and take-home whitening treatments for stubborn stains for optimal results.

Beyond Whitening: Maintaining a Bright Smile

While teeth whitening can significantly improve the look of your smile, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene to maintain those results. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing regularly, and limiting staining foods and beverages are all crucial for keeping your smile bright.

We can also recommend at-home whitening products to help you maintain your results between professional treatments.

Ready to Rediscover Your Smile’s Radiance?

If you’re looking for a safe and effective way to whiten your teeth and regain a confident smile, contact Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry today.  Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and explore the teeth-whitening options we offer. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve a smile that shines as brightly as you do.

 

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

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


Is Tooth Sensitivity a Dental Emergency?

is tooth sensitivity a dental emergency? Provo

You can experience tooth sensitivity when the enamel of your teeth starts to thin. Or when nerves in your teeth become exposed. You may feel pain only when you drink hot or cold liquids. Or it could take place any time you chew.

Is tooth sensitivity a dental emergency?

If tooth sensitivity comes on suddenly, it may be a dental emergency, or at least an urgent dental issue that shouldn’t be ignored.

Either way, at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry we can establish the cause and treat it if it’s dental-related. If we can’t treat the underlying condition, we can refer you to a specialist.

Tooth sensitivity can be caused by:

  • A cavity
  • Gum recession
  • A chipped, cracked, or broken tooth
  • An abscess
  • Thinning enamel due to teeth grinding, bulimia, acid reflux, an acidic diet, vaping, or a bite condition
  • Teeth whitening treatment

Of course, the treatment for tooth sensitivity depends on the cause.

If you experience sudden tooth sensitivity, request an appointment at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. Dr. Hammond will determine the cause of the sensitivity. If the sensitivity is due to thinning enamel, Dr. Hammond will recommend an over-the-counter desensitizing toothpaste. A high-fluoride toothpaste formulated for tooth sensitivity lessens tooth pain after several applications. However, some patients may need in-office procedures such as fluoride gel treatments.

If the sensitivity is caused by an abscess or a cavity, we will take care of that issue as well. We perform root canals, fillings, and inlays/onlays.

These habits can weaken or diminish your tooth enamel:

1. Chewing on hard foods

We’re looking at you Unpopped popcorn kernels and hard candy.

2. Chewing on hard possessions

This includes fingernails, pencils, pen caps, and ice.

3. Grinding your teeth

If you grind your teeth, talk about it with your dentist. An appliance can guard your smile. Then seek appropriate treatment for the underlying cause. Dr. Hammond can recommend medical professionals who specialize in treating teeth grinding.

4. Eating too much sticky food

Gummy candy, dried fruit, and even protein bars can chip teeth.

5. Drinking anything besides water frequently

If your teeth are bathed in soda (sugared or diet), juice, coffee, or sports drinks habitually, you are asking for dental dilemmas.

6. Playing sports without a mouthguard

Sports pose a major risk of tooth damage. Most kids are required to wear a protective mouthguard on the playing field. But fewer adults wear mouthguards for recreational activities like mountain biking and skiing. Stock mouthguards are one-size-fits-all but rarely fit well. Custom-fitted mouthguards from your dentist are more comfortable than the cheap boil-and-bite type.

7. Using a hard-bristled toothbrush

A hard-bristled toothbrush can damage teeth and cause gums to pull away. Remove food bits and plaque with a soft (or extra-soft) toothbrush.

8. Ignoring dry mouth

Saliva is important. Saliva is necessary to neutralize acids and rinse bits of food off of teeth. It also helps clean the teeth of leftover food bits, helping to prevent plaque buildup. Constant dry mouth, or xerostomia, can lead to tooth decay. Talk to your dentist if you have a dry mouth repeatedly.

9. Using teeth as tools

Take a minute to find a pair of scissors before you tear open a package of lunch meat or pry the lid of a medicine bottle. Use a Nutcracker if you are eating unshelled nuts. A quality dental crown can cost over eight hundred dollars.

10. Ignoring bad breath

Bad breath is often related to bacteria build-up in the mouth. It might be a symptom of accelerating tooth decay. Discuss it with your dentist. (Don’t be embarrassed. We treat bad breath all the time.)

11. Ignoring jaw pain

If you notice inexplicable jaw pain or notice a clicking sound, be sure to schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly! These symptoms can be signs of a serious condition called temporomandibular disorder or TMD.

Is it too late? Have you already broken or chipped a tooth? We can repair it at Hammond Aesthetic & General Dentistry. There are a number of restorative and cosmetic dental treatments for chipped or cracked teeth.

 

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?

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

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

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