Tag Archives: General Dentistry

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.

Yellow, stained teeth ruining your smile? Tooth whitening is the answer! | Indianapolis, IN

Cosmetic Dentistry, , , , ,

Are you tired of having yellow, stained teeth, despite your strict daily dental hygiene? You are not alone. There are millions of people suffering from the same problem. So if you brush, floss and visit your dentist regularly then why are your teeth still discolored? This happens because the outer layers of your teeth get stained over the years by consumption of  beverages with caffeine, soda, wine and smoking. When these outside sources of staining are left to sit on the teeth all day until your next brushing, the dentin on your teeth becomes yellowish or darkened. The best way to help your stained discolored teeth is professional tooth whitening.

Contributing factors to yellowing, stained teeth:

  • Tetracycline based antibiotics used before the age of 8 years old
  • Excessive exposure to fluoride as a child
  • Internal  bleeding due to trauma
  • Discoloration due to a health condition
  • Natural aging- as time goes by enamel gets thinner and thinner and will get a yellowish hue
  • Soda
  • Wine
  • Smoking
  • Caffeine

Simple rules to live by to try and stop the yellowing process:

  • Visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleanings
  • Rinse your mouth out with water several times throughout the day
  • Use toothpaste with whitening agents

One of the best ways to whiten your teeth is to visit your dentist for professional tooth whitening. You deserve a beautiful white smile. Contact Dr. George Kirtley for more information on tooth whitening and keeping your teeth white and healthy, 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

 

 

Crowns: The road to a beautiful smile. | Indianapolis, IN

Cosmetic Dentistry, , , , , , ,

Dr. George Kirtley DDS of Indianapolis, IN provides cosmetic and general dentistry. This includes dental Crowns. With the use of crowns you can have the smile you always dreamed of.

Crowns are a cosmetic restoration used to improve your tooth’s shape or to strengthen a tooth. Crowns are most often used for teeth that are broken, worn, or have portions destroyed by tooth decay.

Crowns are “caps” cemented onto an existing tooth which fully cover the portion of your tooth above the gum line. In effect, the crown becomes your tooth’s new outer surface. Crowns can be made of porcelain, metal, or both. Porcelain crowns are most often preferred because they mimic the translucency of natural teeth and are very strong.

Crowns are often preferable to silver amalgam fillings. Unlike fillings which apply metal directly into your mouth, a crown is fabricated away from your mouth. Your crown is created in a lab from your unique tooth impression which allows a dental laboratory technician to examine all aspects of your bite and jaw movements. Your crown is then sculpted just for you so that your bite and jaw movements function normally once the crown is placed.

For more information on Crowns or any other cosmetic restoration, contact Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

 

 

Tired of your Bridge or Dentures? Dental Implants could be the solution. | Indianapolis, IN

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Not many people know what a dental implant is, what it does and if it’s right for them. Dr. George Kirtley DDS of Indianapolis, IN has put together some information to shed more light on dental implants.

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are good for people in good general oral health who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontal disease, an injury, or some other reason. Dental implants are natural-looking and feeling and under proper conditions, such as placement by a diligent patient maintenance, implants can last a lifetime.

What do Dental Implants Do?

  • Replace one or more teeth
  • Support a bridge and reduce the need for a partial denture.
  • Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

Types of Implants

  • Endosteal (in the bone): Most commonly used type of implant. Screws, cylinders or blades are surgically placed into the jawbone.
  • Subperiosteal (on the bone): These are placed on top of the jaw with the metal framework’s

Dental Implants vs Dentures or a Bridge

Esthetically dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. Since dental implants integrate into the structure of your bone, they prevent the bone loss and gum recession that often happen with bridgework and dentures.

Neighboring teeth are not changed to support the implant as with a bridge. More of your own teeth are left untouched, a significant long-term benefit to your oral health.

Dental implants are secure. You don’t have to worry when speaking or eating. No messy pastes and glue. You will go about your daily routine with confidence and comfort.

The success rate of dental implants is highly predictable. They are considered an excellent option for tooth replacement.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

Ideally you need to be in good oral health and have adequate bone in your jaw to support the implant. In addition you will need healthy gum tissue, free of periodontal disease.

If you think you could benefit from a dental implant, make an appointment today with Dr. Kirtley at 317-841-1111 or visit his website at www.smilesbygeorge.com.

 
 

 

 

 

 

Americans Are Now Receiving Fluoridated Water | Indianapolis, IN

Dental Health, , , ,

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has announced that that 73.9 percent of Americans who get their water from municipal systems now benefit from optimal fluoridation, bringing the number of Americans receiving optimally fluoridated water to an all-time high of 204 million people.

This was welcoming news to the members of the American Dental Association. Fluoridation of community water is a proven method for preventing tooth decay.

“The ADA congratulates the CDC and the thousands of organizations and individuals who continue to work toward the day when the customers of every community water system enjoy the benefits of optimal fluoridation,” the ADA said.

Dr. George Kirtley applauds the CDC in their efforts for better oral health among Americans. In addition he always recommends regular dental checkups and routine care.

Contact Dr. George Kirtley today and make an appointment to ensure you have the best oral health. Office: 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.

Cardiovascular Disease linked to Periodontal Disease

Dental Health, , , ,

Current research shows a link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease in some patients. Though there is not concrete evidence as of yet, health-care providers and patients should not ignore the risks gum disease contributing to heart disease.

Patients should be getting a comprehensive periodontal evaluation from their dental professional at least once a year. This should entail a full examination of teeth and gums, overall health status and age. Patients who are diagnosed with periodontal disease should inform their health care provider to reassure better incorporation of their care.

According to Pamela McClain, DDS, president of the American Academy of Periodontology , “There is no compelling evidence to support that treating periodontal disease will reduce cardiovascular disease at this time,” McClain said, “but we do know that periodontal care will improve your oral health status, reduce systemic inflammation and might be good for your heart as well.”

Schedule your next dental checkup today, don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Dr. George Kirtley DDS at 317-841-1111 or visit his website www.smilesbygeorge.com.