Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/09/2016 -- The temporomandibular joints are hinges that connect the jaw to the skull, which are located in front of each ear. They allow movement of the jaw up and down and side to side, allowing an individual to talk, chew, and yawn. It can also be a source of pain that may take a while to resolve.

Pain in the jaw and the muscles in a person's face is known as Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD). "Sometimes it is hard to know what causes TMD. I believe problems with the muscles of the jaw or parts of the joint itself cause the symptoms. Usually TMD is explained by grinding or clenching of the patient's teeth, stress or arthritis in the joint itself. An injury like a substantial blow to the head or even whiplash can easily cause TMD," comments Dr. Bret Gilsdorf.

The most common symptoms of TMD are pain and discomfort. Other symptoms can include tenderness in the face, jaw joint area, neck and shoulders and pain in the ear when a person chews or opens their mouth widely. Dr. Gilsdorf states, "Unfortunately this syndrome can also bring on painful headaches, even migraines, dizziness and earaches. Less painful symptoms can include simply a clicking, popping or grating sound in the jaw that might not be painful, but just annoying. These symptoms can be short-lived or last for years."

One reason TMD can be difficult to diagnose is that other conditions cause comparable symptoms. Tooth decay, sinus infections, arthritis and gum disease can cause the same problems, but are treated differently than TMD. To determine what is causing the patient's symptoms, Dr. Gilsdorf will do a physical exam and take a health history report.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
He will check jaw joints for pain or tenderness and listen for clicks, pops, or grating sounds during movement of the jaw. Dr. Gilsdorf will also make sure the jaw works like it should and doesn't lock when opening or closing the mouth. Plus, he will test the patient's bite and check for problems with facial muscles. Treatment usually involves zero pills, no shots, no surgery, and no unwanted side effects.

Remaining committed to his education, Dr. Gilsdorf continually completes about 150 hours of continuing education courses each year.

To make an appointment with Dr. Gilsdorf call, 785-370-0940.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/22/2016 -- Feeling anxious about receiving dental treatment is a typical fear. Nearly 50 percent of people begin to feel uneasy or stressed whenever thinking about visiting the dentist. Now, with sedation dentistry available, dental fear is becoming a distant memory. Dr. Gilsdorf's main goal is to help make his patients feel relaxed and comfortable during a dental visit.

Well-known dental fears include: fear of embarrassment about the condition of their teeth, fear of gagging and fear of injections. Other fears include not getting numb from the Novocain, fear of the drill and fear of dental sounds and smells.

Dr. Bret Gilsdorf begins with a topical solution that 'pre-numbs' the injection area. Then the local anesthesia is used to completely numb the area being treated. This temporarily blocks the feeling to the nerve and should last one to two hours or longer.

Studies have proven that nitrous oxide gas (laughing gas) is the first and best option for highly apprehensive patients. "After receiving nitrous oxide gas, a patient who was fearful and severely anxious is now going into treatment breathing calmly and visibly relaxing," notes Dr. Gilsdorf.

Oral conscious dentistry is the most common technique used to relieve dental patient fears. The technique is easy and requires no needles. It is a premedication in the form of a pill. Best of all, the medications create such a comfortable experience that most patients do not remember the visit; it's as if they've slept through the treatment.

There are some patients that require IV sedation or general anesthesia instead of oral conscious sedation based on a specific health history. "We have this technique available to patients who find themselves afraid to see a dentist and who suffer from poor oral health as a consequence of their fear. With this procedure, medicine is given through an IV that puts you into a sedated state," explains Dr. Gilsdorf.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
Dr. Gilsdorf is a certified sedation dentist and can provide many levels of comfort. Inside an open and nurturing environment, individuals realize they aren't being judged or simply looked down upon due to their anxiety.

To make an appointment with Dr. Gilsdorf, call 785-370-0940.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/26/2016 -- Until recently, people who wanted to get their teeth straightened had no choice, but to get metal braces. This wasn't a solution for them if they have a career plus professional responsibilities. Now, Dentistry By Design is pleased to offer Invisalign®, a high level of technology to their patients.

Dr. Bret Gilsdorf says, "This scientific system allows us to create beautiful smiles without the embarrassing and cumbersome metal braces of the past." Dr. Gilsdorf will start by mapping out a detailed treatment plan with his patient's goals in mind. An exciting part of the Invisalign technology is that he will be able to show a digital 3D representation of how the teeth will move during treatment. Every two weeks as new aligners are used the teeth gently and gradually begin to shift into place.

How Invisalign® works:
- The teeth are laser-scanned into a computer where Cadcam technology creates a series of clear removable custom-made Aligners.
- Wear each set of customized Aligners for about two weeks.
- Remove only when eating, drinking, brushing, and flossing.
- Visit the doctor approximately every six weeks.
- The teeth will begin to shift gradually between these dental appointments.
- Total treatment time averages 6-15 months.

Some of the benefits of Invisalign are that the aligners are capable of treating a wide variety of cases, such as crowding, spacing, crossbite, overbite and underbite and they straighten the teeth. They allow the individual to eat foods that they enjoy and let the patient brush and floss normally for better oral health. "Another benefit is that Invisalign aligners are made of smooth plastic instead of sharp metal with wires that are likely to irritate the cheeks and gums. The major benefit of Invisalign aligners are that they are invisible unlike traditional braces that are visibly unattractive. Most people won't even notice you're wearing them," remarks Dr. Gilsdorf.

While the results may appear the same, "a confident and beautiful smile", when you stop and actually compare Invisalign® to other teeth-straightening options, the advantages become quite obvious.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
Remaining committed to his education, Dr. Gilsdorf continually completes about 150 hours of continuing education courses each year.

Call our office today at 785-370-0940 to make an appointment. For additional details, visit http://www.invisalign.com.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/30/2015 -- Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is a quiet destructive infection associated with as many as five hundred different kinds of bacteria that are leaving behind their waste in an individual's mouth every day. Yesterday, dentists and dental hygienists strived to save teeth with regular cleanings.

As the dental and medical communities have become aware, there is much more to be taken into consideration. If the patient has an inflammatory condition like periodontal disease, he is in danger of developing more serious problems, such as heart problems, diabetes, or rheumatoid arthritis. As Dr. Gilsdorf and Dr. Guess manage the health of their patient's teeth, they are not just saving teeth; they are also saving lives.

"As gum disease continues unchecked, enzymes excreted by the bacteria slowly destroy the gum tissue. This allows the bacteria to access the bloodstream. The bacteria and their by-products cause an inflammatory response throughout the body. For anyone with a weakened immune system, this negative factor is likely to have a complicating effect on their pre-existing medical conditions," remarks Dr. Gilsdorf.

Although diabetics are more prone to periodontal disease, we haven't been sure if diabetes causes periodontitis or vice versa. In 1993, researchers at Columbia University's School of Public Health studied over 9,000 adults who showed no symptoms of diabetes. By the end of the study, over 800 of them became diabetics. Dr. Guess adds, "It was found that if a person had advanced periodontal disease, they were almost twice as likely to contract diabetes within the following two decades."

During an appointment with Smiles By Design, the hygienists treat gum disease, therefore lessening the chances for developing heart disease. The way gum disease affects the heart is that periodontal disease triggers a series of chemical events that brew up an inflammatory response across the entire body. When plaque lining the arteries causes the arteries to become inflamed, blood clots can form, bringing about a heart attack or stroke.

Dr. Gilsdorf and Dr. Guess conclude, "It is not enough to just keep watch on suspicious spots on the gums. Instead, attacking gum disease aggressively will be a critical action step in maintaining, and improving our patients' overall health and their enjoyment of life."

If you suspect you have gum disease call 785-370-0940 and make an appointment.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 06/08/2015 -- Snoring affects around a third of people in America. This in turn affects 73 percent of individuals who have their sleep disturbed by a snoring partner.

While snoring may seem physically harmless, it may actually be a red flag for a much more serious and sometimes fatal condition called obstructive sleep apnea. "This happens when the air passage deflates, blocking airflow into the lungs," explains Dr. Gilsdorf. "The harder you try to breathe, the tighter the air passage seals. This airway blockage persists until the brain partly wakes you up."

The exhausting sleep apnea cycle starts when a person falls asleep. The jaw relaxes and the air passage collapses. When this happens, the brain struggles to rouse itself before suffocation. The person unconsciously awakens with a gasp, before falling back to sleep, only to start the cycle again. This cycle can repeat itself 50 more times each hour during the night.

"Everyone knows about the ugly results of second-hand smoke, but are you aware of how serious second-hand snoring can be?" asks Dr Gilsdorf. Research shows that bed partners of people who snore are losing just as much sleep as the snorer. Given that snorers can produce nearly 80 decibels of sound, these noisy rumbles are detrimental to both the snorer and their bedmate.

According to recent research done by the Mayo Clinic and Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, second-hand snoring can cause pain, excessive fatigue, and even deafness with exposure to certain sound frequencies.

To combat snoring, Dr. Gilsdorf offers his patients a lightweight dental device that is worn like a mouthguard and molded to fit each individual. The snore-stopping appliance helps the snorer keep the lower jaw positioned slightly forward, preventing the airway from closing and ending the vibration of the soft tissues.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
Dr. Gilsdorf's practice philosophies stem from his compassion and determination to give his patients the education they need in order to achieve optimum health and aesthetics.

To make an appointment with Dr. Gilsdorf please call (785) 370-0940.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/20/2015 -- Getting a dental crown used to require at least two appointments, but not anymore. With the debut of CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics), it now takes only one appointment to get a crown placed.

Here is a brief summary of how crowns were completed before CEREC: During the first appointment, the decayed and weakened parts of the tooth are removed so a temporary crown can be placed. The patient has to keep this temporary crown on while waiting for the off-site laboratory to make the permanent crown, which can take two weeks. When it is completed, another appointment is required so that the permanent crown can be placed for a final fitting.

Today, however, CEREC has made things much more convenient for patients at Dentistry By Design. CEREC is a system that uses CAD/CAM (computer-aided design/manufacturing technology). First, a special, highly precise camera makes digital impressions of the teeth. Next, the CEREC machine drafts the design of the crown based on these digital images, even matching the color exactly with the shade of the patients' natural teeth. Finally, a milling unit churns out the crown precisely as it was programmed into the machine. The natural-looking, strong, and well-fitting crown is rendered in about 10 to 20 minutes.

"One of the best things about CEREC is our patients no longer have to get their impressions done by putting impression 'goop' into their mouths, waiting for it to harden, and then pulling it out," says Dr. Gilsdorf, "They usually don't like that because it feels like all their teeth are coming out too!"

CEREC technology can also be used to create veneers, inlays and onlays, reducing the time and money spent on these treatments as well. For a patient getting a crown, an entire session typically lasts less than two hours.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
Dr. Gilsdorf is committed to keeping abreast of the latest developments in the dental universe. He completes over 100 hours of continuing education courses each year.

To make an appointment with Dentistry By Design, call (785) 370-0940.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 12/15/2014 -- The Good Deeds contest was open to anyone 18 years of age and under. All they had to do was perform a good deed and describe to Dentistry By Design in a short essay what they did, why they chose to do it, and what happened as a result of their good deed.

Andrew Mortimer, who was selected as the winner, is now the proud owner of a MacBook Air notebook computer, courtesy of Dentistry by Design.

Andrew's essay revolved around his support and charity work for St. Jude Hospital. As an ambassador for the hospital, he participates in many public-speaking events in honor of his younger brother, Brady.

As part of the "Whipping Childhood Cancer Challenge" for the National Walk for St. Jude in Kansas City this weekend, Andrew raised $75.00 by taking whipped pie to the face. He also held a toy drive during his birthday party in memory of his younger brother, Brady. He delivered all the toys to St. Jude Hospital and Ronald McDonald House. He constantly writes to his friends at the hospital and helps put a smile on their faces with his friendship and support. Andrew continues to do many good deeds for the community and St. Jude Hospital.

To continue supporting him in his charity work, Dentistry By Design will be having a toy drive for Andrew's charity organization of choice, St. Jude Hospital. From now through December 22, Dentistry By Design will collect and donate toys for Andrew to deliver to the hospital this Christmas.

The next Good Deeds contest will be held in the spring. Dentistry By Design believes in treating others the way anyone would want to be treated. A positive action creates a chain reaction. They want to recognize and reward accomplishments so that no good deed goes unnoticed.

About Dentistry By Design
The doctors and team at Dentistry By Design believe patients should have sufficient information to make educated decisions about their oral health, treatment options and insurance coverage.

To make an appointment, call 785-539-2314.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/07/2014 -- It's well known that too much candy can lead to uncomfortable dental problems for children, and Halloween is the king of candy-consumption holidays, with annual Halloween candy sales totaling more than $2 billion. Balancing dental health and holiday fun is a challenge every parent must face.

This Halloween, Dr. Bret Gilsdorf of Dentistry By Design in Manhattan, KS, is providing a solution that will empower children by allowing them to donate some of their candy, which will make a difference for them and those who serve our nation. As part of their annual Candy Buy Back campaign, Dentistry By Design will give a child $1 cash for every pound of candy brought to their dental office November 3–7. All candy received will be donated to the U.S. troops overseas. Donations will be brought to the local base for direct distribution.

"Candy Buy Back is our way of helping children learn to make good oral health decisions for themselves while connecting our community to those who serve and protect them," explains Dr. Gilsdorf. "We get the opportunity to teach children that there is a real payoff for practicing moderation, and that they can really make a difference in the lives of others."

To participate, children can drop off their candy between 8 am and 5 pm at Dentistry By Design, located at 1110 Westport Drive, Manhattan, KS. Please note, only children are allowed to participate.

About Dentistry By Design
The practice philosophy at Dentistry By Design stems from the desire to give patients the education and support they need in order to achieve optimal dental health and esthetics. This is accomplished by melding the four pillars of comfort, compassion, customer service, and excellent dentistry to create a new, positive, and unique experience for our family of patients.

For further information on the Candy Buy Back campaign or Dentistry by Design, call 785-539-2314 or visit http://www.DentistryByDesignKS.com

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Remember as a kid how scary it was to be told that it was time for a dentist visit? You didn’t know what to expect, but probably had overheard stories from other children, or even their parents about how painful going to the dentist can be. Then, throw in words such as needles and drills and imaginations are kicked into overdrive. Dr. Gilsdorf takes a whole different approach to making his small patients comfortable and takes the fear out of a trip to the dentist.

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 08/18/2014 -- At Dentistry By Design in Manhattan, KS, Dr. Bret Gilsdorf realizes that kids have different needs than adults visiting the dentist office. He says, "We love working with our young patients and we encourage the parents of young children to bring them along to the parent's routine dental visit so that the child can easily see what goes on during the appointment and become familiar with our staff and office."

Dr. Gilsdorf suggests that a first visit occur between two and three years of age. Prevention and early intervention can help maintain healthy, happy smiles for a lifetime.

When is the best time for braces? Dr. Gisdorf states, "There are some real benefits in starting orthodontic treatment when children are younger. The child doesn't have to wear braces for a long period of time, especially during those awkward teenage years. It is also much easier to expand the palate and allow room for all of the adult teeth to have the proper growing space." Expanding the palate allows space in the mouth so the child's adult teeth have room to grow.

Dr. Gilsdorf has developed relationships with some excellent orthodontists in the area and can refer parents and children to an orthodontist if an exam reveals crowded or crooked teeth, or issues with the palate.

Dr. Gilsdorf offers tips for the whole family's oral health: limit frequency of meals and snacks and make brushing, flossing and rinsing part of the child's schedule. Watch what your child drinks, skip the sugary drinks and limit acidic juices, such as orange juice, and make sure they rinse after consuming juices. Good oral hygiene is important and needs to start at a young age.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
Dr. Gilsdorf remains committed to his education and continually completes about 200 hours of continuing education courses each year.

To make an appointment with Dr. Gilsdorf call 785-539-2314.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Not long ago, people who had missing teeth due to poor dental health or an accident had only few options, including a bridge or dentures. Now, a new, more permanent method of replacing missing teeth is available - dental implants.

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 07/01/2014 -- For individuals who are missing teeth, Dr. Bret Gilsdorf of Dentistry By Design in Manhattan, KS has found that dental implants can be an effective long-term solution. Implants provide greater structural support and last longer than bridges or dentures. With proper care and maintenance, implants can last a lifetime.

Dental implants are teeth that look and feel as natural as the original tooth. Implants serve as the artificial root to which new teeth are attached. The placement of dental implants can help prevent the loss of jawbone, a very typical problem associated with missing teeth. Dr. Gilsdorf says, "The implants don't interfere with speech or eating and are very comfortable. Recent advancements make dental implants easier to place and more affordable than ever. The natural, esthetic look of the crowns is another benefit."

Dental implants may be right for an individual if they: Have one or more missing teeth, a jawbone that's reached full growth, have healthy oral tissues, are unable or unwilling to wear dentures and are willing to commit several months to the implant process.

Dental implants can also be used to securely anchor dentures. "Constant denture relining and shifting, dietary restrictions and jaw shrinkage are worries many people with dentures have to deal with. For those who want to avoid these problems, we believe implants are the best dentistry has to offer," remarks Dr. Gilsdorf. Dental implants are so natural looking and feeling, the patient may forget they ever lost a tooth. Dr. Gilsdorf will explain the procedure thoroughly so patients are able to make an informed decision.

About Dr. Gilsdorf
Remaining committed to his education, Dr. Gilsdorf continually completes about 200 hours of continuing education courses each year. He also completed a sedation mini-residency at Montefiore Medical Center University Hospital for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is a presenting member of a number of study clubs throughout the years for Pankey Alum, in AGD Mastertrack. For anyone considering dental implants call (785) 370-0940 and make an appointment to discuss your options.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The contest was open to anyone 18 years of age and under. All they had to do was - "do a good deed" and tell Dentistry By Design in a short essay what they did, why they chose to do it, and what happened as a result of their good deed. Aysha Alsaadi, 12 years old and a current patient of Dentistry By Design, was the winner!

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/20/2014 -- Congratulations, Aysha! Her good deed was feeding wild animals, such as squirrels and rabbits during the winter, when the deep snow and freezing temperatures didn't offer up much food for the animals. Now that it is spring, food for the animals is abundant.

The winner could choose either an iPad or a laptop as top prize. Aysha chose the laptop for her prize and her father, who was very proud of Ayshia, brought her in to pick up the laptop.

Dentistry By Design values and believes in treating others the way anyone would want to be treated. A positive action creates a chain reaction. They want to recognize and reward accomplishments!

Watch for another Good Deeds Contest coming up in the fall. Once again congratulations to our Good Deeds winner, Aysha Alsaadi! No good deed goes unnoticed!

About Dentistry By Design
The doctors and team at Dentistry By Design believe patients should have sufficient information to make educated decisions about their oral health, treatment options and insurance coverage. You'll find all of this information and more on our website – including directions to the Manhattan, KS office, service descriptions, patient forms, patient education resources and reports and more. To make an appointment, call (785) 539-2314.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The end of March and the first part of April was an exciting time for Dr. Gilsdorf and his team at Dentistry By Design in Manhattan, KS with a Grand Reopening held March 28 at the practice office and the Website Open House from March 30 through April 4.

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/30/2014 -- The Grand Reopening celebration was held to announce Dentistry By Design's new ownership. Dr. Bret Gilsdorf, the new owner of the practice, performed a ribbon cutting ceremony and beverages were provided. A number of members from the Chamber of Commerce were in attendance. Many current patients and possibly some future patients came to support Dr. Gilsdorf and his staff at Dentistry By Design.

Starting on March 30 they held an Open House on their website. The possibility of winning a 50" Sharp TV brought out a large number of entrants. The website contained 10 hidden dental images such as a dentist, toothbrush or floss. When the visitor found an icon they had to submit an entry listing located on the website telling on which page they had found the image to enter the drawing. They got an entry for each image they correctly found. The drawing was held and one of their current patients, Donald Francis was the winner.

If you weren't able to attend either of these events you can still check out their new website at www.dentistrybydesignks.com. Remaining committed to his education, Dr. Gilsdorf continually completes about 200 hours of continuing education courses each year. If you are looking for a dentist call 785-789-4036 and make an appointment with Dr. Gilsdorf or Dr. Guess.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

The doctors and team at Dentistry by Design believe patients should have sufficient information to make educated decisions about their oral health, treatment options and insurance coverage. All this information and more is on the new website – including directions to the Manhattan, KS office, patient forms, patient education resources and reports.

Manhattan, KS -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/24/2014 -- Dr. Bret Gilsdorf and the team offer an array of services and up-to-date technology that are explained clearly in titled sections of the website. An example of services such as Dental Implants is detailed under the Services section. The office uses only the latest in dental technology including CEREC. CEREC is found under the Technology section on the website.

On the home page Dr. Gilsdorf has a variety of social media pages with icons that will allow him to interact even more with patients and potential patients. Click on an icon and it will take the reader directly to his Facebook, Google+, Twitter and other social media pages. This is a way for Dr. Gilsdorf to share continuing education seminars he has attended, new dental cases, research being done in the world of dentistry, staff birthdays, some dental humor and much more.

Dr. Bret Gilsdorf graduated with honors from the University of South Dakota in 1999. He then received his doctorate from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 2005, graduating with honors. He has been practicing dentistry since then.

Remaining committed to his education, Dr. Gilsdorf continually completes about 200 hours of continuing education courses each year. Dr. Gilsdorf completed a sedation mini-residency at Montefiore Medical Center University Hospital for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is a presenting member of a number of study clubs throughout the years for Pankey Alum, in AGD Mastertrack.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm