Dental Implants | Indianapolis, Indiana

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Are you looking for a long term solution to your missing, damaged, or broken teeth? If so, look no further! Dental implants are the perfect long term solution for you. A dental implant is a small titanium post that is inserted into the jaw in which functions as an artificial replacement for the root portion of a missing tooth.

Dental implants can support a single crown, multiple teeth through a bridge, or be used to secure loose dentures firmly in place. Though dental implants main purpose is to replace lost teeth, they can also help with a multitude of other things. This includes preserving your facial structure, preventing bone deterioration, and stopping muscle sagging; all of which occurs when teeth are missing.

Implant dentistry can restore your smile and oral health. To see if dental implants are right for you, contact Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit the website www.dentalimplantsindianapolis.com

Porcelain Veneers | Indianapolis, Indiana

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, general dentistry, porcelain veneers, porcelain veneers, , , ,

 

Smiles by George is a cosmetic, restorative, and family dentistry located in Indianapolis. Dr. Kirtley has crafted hundreds of smiles through a series of special techniques in which he has picked up over the years. He has treated individuals from all over the United States and Europe, grazing multiple magazine covers with his work. As the man behind the magic, Dr. Kirtely works hard with patients to help them achieve the award winning smile that they have always dreamed of.

Dental Veneers

Veneers are shells of porcelain that are tailor made to fit over the surfaces of the teeth. With their malleable like material, veneers are made to fit the size and shape of any surrounding teeth, furthermore giving off the most natural appearance any individual would want.

Dr. Kirtley has taken dental veneers one step further by using his software device known as Envision. This allows patients the opportunity to view what their teeth would look like with the procedure before it even occurs! The smile imaging program is a new and innovative device that allows you to make any adjustments or fix any issues you see, ensuring you the most perfect form of the smile that you’ve always wanted.

For more information on porcelain veneers or to make an appointment call, Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website http://www.porcelainveneersindianapolis.com/

What is a General Dentist | Indianapolis, IN

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A general dentist is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages. They are responsible for all of the basic dental needs of their patients as well as assisting them in finding the appropriate help for deeper dental issues.

General dentists make up the majority of the 143,000 dentists practicing in the Unites States and Canada. Oftentimes, they become partners or associates with other dentists in a group practice. Some dentists work in government health services, research programs, higher education, corporations and even the military.

The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist regularly which is about once every six months. This will ensure proper oral hygiene and functionality. Regular checkups and oral health maintenance prevent the development of serious dental problems that may require costly treatment.

Dr. Kirtley is the only dentist worldwide who has the distinction of being accredited by both the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Visit him today for a dental check-up! To make an appointment call, Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

TLC for your Toothbrush | Indianapolis, IN

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health

As important as it is to keep your teeth brushed and cared for, did you know that it is equally as important to keep your toothbrush well maintained? The oral cavity is home to a multitude of microorganisms, which can most definitely be transferred onto your toothbrush as you brush your teeth. Here are some tips to make sure your toothbrush remains effective!

  1. Refrain from sharing your toothbrush with anyone. Sharing a toothbrush could result in the exchange of body fluids and or microorganisms between users, ultimately leaving teeth more prone to infections of some sort.
  2. Rinse your toothbrush with tap water after brushing to remove any toothpaste and debris. Store your toothbrush upright and allow it to air dry before you use it again.
  3. Replace your toothbrush every three to four months. The bristles become frayed upon frequent use and therefore it’s overall effectiveness in cleaning your teeth decrease.

Ask your dentist about other ways to effectively use your toothbrush as well as for some tips on how to maintain, store, and care for it. To make an appointment call, Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

Athletic Performance Linked to Better Teeth | Indianapolis, IN

Dental Health, general dentistry

If you are an athlete looking to better your overall performance on the field, track, court, or ice, you should look into your oral health! Recent studies done and published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine in 2012 showed that 18 percent of athletes who attended the dental clinic of the London 2012 Olympic Games reported that their oral health damaged their training and performance in the games.

Researchers surveyed and examined 302 athletes from 25 sports and concluded these results:

  • Fifty-five percent had dental caries, the disease that causes cavities;
  • Forty-five percent had dental erosion;
  • More than three-quarters had gingivitis and 15 percent had gum disease;
  • More than 40 percent of athletes were “bothered” by their oral health with 28 percent saying it impacted their quality of life and 18 percent saw an impact on their training and performance;
  • Nearly half of the participants had not had an oral exam or hygiene care in the previous year.

This just goes to show that oral health is an important tool and element of overall health, as it can effect one’s overall performance.

So, schedule your appointments today and get back on track for better oral health. To make an appointment call, Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

Secondhand Smoke Delivering First Hand Dental Issues | Indianapolis, IN

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, general dentistry, , ,

We all know smoking offers major detriments to an individual’s oral health, however researchers have been taking a closer look as to how it may affect children through second hand smoke. There is a possible link between secondhand smoke and caries, or cavities in children.

According to an article published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, cavities are the most prevalent chronic disease in children ages 6 to 11 and in teens ages 12 to 19. In order to reduce the prevalence of cavities by 10 percent in 2020, we must take steps necessary to permitting further damage to an individual.

Secondhand smoke is a proven risk factor in adolescents all around, and must be limited and further researched I order to be removed.

If you have any questions of concerns regarding secondhand smoking and you or your child’s oral health, give Dr. Kirtley a call today! To make an appointment call, Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

Easy Steps to Preventing Gum Disease | Indianapolis, IN

Dental Health, , ,

If you are a coffee drinker, you need to be extra careful. Coffee can contribute to the buildup of plaque and tartar and accelerate the progression of gum disease.

There are two forms of gum disease: gingivitis, an inflammation of your gums caused by plaque, and periodontitis, a more advanced version of gingivitis that results in a gap between your teeth and your gums. Gum disease, when caught in the gingivitis stage, can be treated and, in the future, prevented. Periodontitis, on the other hand, is more difficult to treat and, due to the gap between the teeth and gums, may cause your teeth to become loose and fall out.

Coffee affects your mouth in two ways. First, it lowers the temperature of your mouth and gums. Second, it reduces the blood flow to your gums. The combination of lowered temperature and restricted blood flow means your gums do not get all of the necessary oxygen they need to continue functioning properly.

Saliva contains oxygen and specialized enzymes which help prevent gum disease by killing the unnecessary bacteria in your mouth. However, drinking coffee can cause dehydration and reduce the amount of saliva you produce, thus increasing your chances of developing gum disease.

For more information on the prevention of dental disease, contact Dr. George Kirtley DDS at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

 

 

Implant Dentistry, Step by Step – Indianapolis, IN

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, , , ,

Dental implant treatment is usually a three part process. It takes several months to complete. Dr. George Kirtley of Indianapolis, IN wants to make sure his patients are well informed of all procedures offered to them and how they work. We will take you through the implant process step by step.

Step 1

The implant is surgically placed in the jaw. The top of the implant will be slightly above the top of the bone. To prevent debris and gum tissue from entering, a screw is inserted. The gum is placed over the implant for about 3 -6 months. The implant needs this time to fuse with the bone.

Step 2

The implant is uncovered and a post is attached to the implant. In some cases the implant and post are both placed in the mouth during step 1. Dr. Kirtley will decide which option is best for you. Once the gum tissue is healed the implant and post are ready for the new tooth.

Step 3

A crown is made that will match your other teeth. Once the crown is made it is attached to the implant post. You now have an artificial replacement tooth. They do not need to be removed for soaking and cleaning and no adhesives needed, as with dentures. It acts and looks just like a real tooth.

Implant dentistry can restore your smile and oral health. To see if dental implants are right for you, contact Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit the website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

 

 

 

 

Abolish your Fear of the Dentist with Sedation Dentistry | Indianapolis, IN

Cosmetic Dentistry, Dental Health, , , , ,

Does the thought of having your teeth worked on make you anxious or uncomfortable? Do the sight of needles and the sound of dental drills make you cringe? Now imagine if you could have everything done while you nap comfortably and awake to not remembering anything from the procedure. By the use of sedation, we can do this for you. Dr. George Kirtley of Indianapolis, IN is trained in sedation dentistry and has been helping people overcome these fears for many years.

Sedation dentistry involves medications taken before a procedure to produce a relaxed feeling. Recovery time is a little longer and you’ll need someone to drive you home after your dental treatment is completed. Sedation dentistry can benefit a wide range of patients, including people with:

  • High dental anxiety and fear.
  • A severe gag reflex.
  • Difficulty getting numb.
  • Extensive treatment needs.
  • A desire to have dentistry done comfortably while they are fully relaxed.

We understand that going to the dentist can be very difficult for some people. Dental phobia is actually a lot more common than you may think. It is estimated that about 15% of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of this reason.

If you’ve avoided going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear of the dentist, this is your chance to make an appointment and lose that fear. Contact Dr. Kirtley 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

 

How do I take care of my new Porcelain Veneers? | Bloomington, IN

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Once you achieve that picture perfect smile with porcelain veneers, you need to be sure to take good care of them. According to Dr. George Kirtley of Indianapolis, IN, Dental problems take their toll on veneers, so taking care of your teeth and gums is essential. Veneers are attached to your actual teeth, which means gum and hygiene problems can greatly affect the veneers.

Polishing

One way to keep your porcelain veneers at their best is to polish them. You can have your teeth and veneers polished once every three to four months. Special tools will be used to buff and clean your teeth and veneers thoroughly. In addition, regular brushing and flossing and regular dental visits will keep your veneers looking great for years.

Mind food and Activities

Even though porcelain veneers act like regular teeth, they cannot withstand excessive pressure. Always try to avoid biting on hard bones, holding things between your teeth, or even chewing finger nails. Also, chewing ice can be extremely damaging to your teeth and veneers, chipping or breaking them. If you engage in sports, always be sure to wear a mouth guard.

How Long Do They Last?

Porcelain veneers are made of a bonding material that does not wear down easily. With proper care as noted above. Veneers can possibly last your entire life. One of the many reasons porcelain veneers are one of the most popular options for smile makeovers.

For more information on porcelain veneers or to make an appointment call, Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.