Your Questions Answered Regain Your Smile, Change Your Life with DENTAL IMPLANTS! PLUS, learn DENTAL INDUSTRY SECRETS about Teeth-in-a-Day and All-on-4! DR. ROBERT MCNEILL, D.D.S., M.D. TOLL-FREE: 800.615.1435 OR 877.200.4675
Regain Your Smile, Change Your Life with Dental Implants! A strong, healthy, complete smile can make you look better, feel good about yourself, and improve your outlook and your relationships. If you have missing teeth, you re not living life to the fullest. Research shows that people with a full set of teeth live longer than those with incomplete smiles. Studies also indicate that 9 out of 10 Americans consider an attractive smile an important social asset. Everyone wants their natural teeth to last a lifetime. Sometimes, though, that s just not possible. Trauma, decay, disease, excessive wear and tear, and even congenital factors can lead to tooth loss. When teeth are missing, it s important to replace them right away to combat the degenerative effects of an incomplete smile. Backed by over 50 years of clinical research, dental implants provide a secure, long-lasting, and attractive solution to replace missing teeth. They look and feel completely natural and are the preferred tooth replacement option for patients who want healthy, youngerlooking smiles. With dental implants, your dentist can turn back the clock and give you the smile you deserve. 2 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
REGAIN YOUR SMILE, CHANGE YOUR LIFE WITH DENTAL IMPLANTS! Missing Teeth: A Serious Issue Affecting Millions Did you know that 69% of adults are missing at least one tooth? Many people may think that a single missing tooth isn t a big deal, but here s a staggering statistic: If one missing tooth isn t replaced, 20% of adjacent teeth will be lost in the next 4 to 8 years. Maybe that s why 50 million Americans have lost all of their teeth. If you have missing teeth or ill-fitting dentures, then you know the physical and emotional pain that often accompanies an incomplete smile. Your relationships may suffer because you re simply too embarrassed to smile or be seen in public. Eating can become uncomfortable and speech may sound slurred. Your appearance suffers, too. Without the support of a full set of teeth, cheeks appear sunken. Lips begin to curl as a result of the distance between the chin and nose shortening. Jawbone mass deteriorates (a process called resorption) and gum tissue shrinks because they lack the stimulation provided by the chewing forces of natural teeth. Conventional Tooth Replacement Methods Present Problems In the past, people relied on conventional dentures, partials, and bridges to replace missing teeth. But these solutions often present problems. Removable dentures can make an annoying clicking sound, letting everyone know that you wear false teeth. Over time, dentures begin to slip as jawbone tissue diminishes. This causes discomfort, embarrassment, and frustration. Wearers of traditional bridges experience an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease around the natural teeth that anchor a bridge in place. As a result of these issues and others, people often find themselves replacing a traditional prosthesis every 7 to 15 years. Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 3
Dental Implants: A Proven Solution to Replace Missing Teeth Dental implants offer a proven, long-lasting, and attractive solution to solve the problem of missing teeth! Millions of people just like you have regained healthy, beautiful smiles with dental implants. Because a dental implant mimics the structure of a natural tooth, it delivers a completely realistic appearance as well as long-lasting strength and durability. Most patients report that their dental implants are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Dental implants can change your life! Structure of a Dental Implant A dental implant is a prosthesis that replaces the entire structure of a tooth to reproduce natural appearance and function. A surgical-grade titanium post placed in the jawbone serves as a new tooth root, the part of the tooth that you can t see. The jawbone grows tightly around the post to provide a firm foundation for a replacement tooth. A single ceramic crown or other dental prosthesis placed atop the man-made root restores the part of the tooth that s visible above the gum line. Replacement teeth supported by dental implants look, feel, and function like your own teeth. 4 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
DENTAL IMPLANTS: A PROVEN SOLUTION TO REPLACE MISSING TEETH Uses of Dental Implants The unsurpassed stability and longevity of dental implants make them the ideal replacement tooth alternative for people who want a permanent method to restore oral comfort, function, and appearance. No more missing teeth, no more messy adhesive, no more worrying about your smile! DENTAL IMPLANTS CAN: Replace Single Teeth: An individual implant post placed in the jawbone secures a custom-made replacement tooth. Even one missing tooth can mar your smile and jeopardize oral health. A dental implant restores an attractive appearance and renews healthy, comfortable function. Replace Multiple Teeth: Dental implants can replace multiple missing teeth, no matter where they occur in your smile. A single dental implant can be used to replace each missing tooth, or your dentist may suggest an implant-supported partial denture or bridge to complete your smile. A partial eliminates gaps spread throughout a smile; a bridge fills the space left by one or more missing teeth in a row. Implant-supported partials and bridges require no alteration of healthy tooth structure to stay in place, which is important for life-long oral health. Secure a Complete Row of Upper or Lower Teeth: Missing teeth cause jawbone loss and gum shrinkage, which makes dentures, especially lower ones, lose their fit. When dentures slip, smiling and speaking become embarrassing, and eating uncomfortable. Dentures supported by dental implants provide extraordinary stability. You won t need to use denture adhesive to hold them in place, and you ll never again worry about slippage. Plus, you won t have to remove your teeth to clean them. Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 5
DENTAL IMPLANTS: A PROVEN SOLUTION TO REPLACE MISSING TEETH Depending on your unique situation, the dentist will attach your replacement teeth following the healing process after your bone tissue bonds with the implant post. Sometimes, replacement teeth can be secured on the same day as implant surgery, a process called immediate load. This procedure isn t right for everyone, but it may be right for you. Your dentist will help you determine the best solution for your individual needs. The Many Benefits of Dental Implants! A natural look and feel, long-lasting strength, comfort, and durability are just a few of the benefits of dental implants over conventional tooth replacement methods. Other advantages include: Preservation of Jawbone Mass: When teeth are missing, jawbone structure deteriorates. Dental implants conserve existing jawbone structure. They re the only tooth replacement technique that provides this benefit. Natural Teeth Remain Untouched: There s no need to alter existing teeth, as in preparation for a traditional dental bridge, which is better for your smile and positively impacts oral health. Facial Skin & Muscles Regain Support for a More Youthful Appearance: No more sunken cheeks or lips that curl in to make you look older than you are. Eat What You Want without Worrying about Slippage or Discomfort: Crunchy, vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables, corn on the cob, steak no food is off limits! Food tastes good again, too. 6 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
DENTAL IMPLANTS: A PROVEN SOLUTION TO REPLACE MISSING TEETH No More Denture Adhesive: Teeth stay securely in place without the need for messy, bad-tasting adhesive. Distinct Articulation Returns: A full set of teeth play a vital role in clear speech. Without a complete smile, speech is often slurred. Existing Teeth Stay Where They Belong: When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth lose an anchor that holds them in the correct position. Eventually, existing teeth drift, which can cause discomfort, bite misalignment, premature wear, and an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. You can Enjoy an Active Lifestyle: Dental implants become a permanent part of your smile, so you can enjoy a variety of activities without worrying about your teeth. Eat what you want without worrying about slippage or discomfort: Partial dentures attach to healthy teeth with esthetically unappealing hooks or clasps that put stress on these anchor teeth and may contribute to dental decay. Confidence, Confidence, Confidence: You ll love smiling again! Enjoy the benefits of dental implants. Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 7
Dental Implants Step by Step: A Blueprint for Success The typical procedure for dental implant placement and restoration includes the following phases: PHASE 1: Your dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gum tissue, and jawbone. Study models made from impressions of your teeth and jaw, as well as X-rays, aid in precise treatment planning. Many doctors utilize computer tomography (CT) scanning technology to obtain detailed images of internal oral structures. These models and pictures help the doctor determine if you have sufficient jawbone mass to support dental implants. Accurate placement of the implant posts and adequate bone mass are crucial for implant success. If your jawbone needs shoring up, a bone graft can be performed prior to or at the same as implant placement. PHASE 2: On the day of your implant surgery, a specialist will place the dental implants posts through gum tissue and into your jawbone. You ll receive as many implant posts as needed to support your replacement teeth. The surgeon may place one implant post to restore a single tooth or up to four to attach an entire row of teeth. A sinus lift and/or bone graft may be performed at this time, if needed, to increase jawbone mass and promote successful integration of the implant posts. If you are receiving immediate load replacement teeth, the doctor will attach your dental prosthetic following placement of the implants. 8 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
DENTAL IMPLANTS STEP BY STEP: A BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS PHASE 3: During the healing process, your jawbone tissue will grow very tightly around the implant posts, a process called osseointegration. This process can take 2 to 6 months and depends on the number of implants you received, as well as their placement. Osseointegration usually occurs faster in the lower jaw. PHASE 4: You ll receive your permanent replacement teeth (custom crowns, full dentures, a partial, or a bridge) to beautifully renew your smile! Are Dental Implants Right for You? TAKE THIS QUIZ: Do you have missing teeth? Are you embarrassed by the condition of your smile? Do you have ill-fitting dentures? Is your fixed bridge causing existing teeth to deteriorate? Do you want to preserve jawbone mass? Are you interested in a younger-looking smile? Do you dislike having to remove your teeth to clean them? Are you tired of the diet restrictions imposed by wearing dentures? Do you dislike using messy, foul-tasting denture paste? Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 9
DENTAL IMPLANTS STEP BY STEP: A BLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS If you answered YES to one or more of these questions, then dental implants may be the right solution for your smile! Ideal candidates possess good oral and overall health and disease-free gum tissue. The quality and quantity of jawbone tissue are also crucial factors for success. At your implant dentistry consultation, the dentist will examine your smile and discuss your lifestyle to determine your candidacy for dental implants. Certain dental therapies may be necessary to prepare your mouth for implant placement. Dental Implants: Experience the Advantages for Yourself! Dental implants are backed by over 50 years of clinical study and have a proven track record of success. In fact, a 95 to 98% success rate makes dental implants one of the most successful dental procedures available. Stories abound about how dental implants change smiles and lives. You probably know someone who has experienced the benefits of this amazing restorative dentistry procedure. You could be next! Learn more about dental implants! 10 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
Dental Implants: Q & A What are dental implants made of? Most implants are crafted from surgical-grade titanium. This biocompatible material has undergone rigorous clinical study to ensure safety, and it s FDAapproved for use in implant dentistry. What are teeth in a day? Teeth in a day, sometimes called immediate load, is an innovative technique in which patients receive replacement teeth the same day as their implant surgery. Dental implants placed in the jawbone secure custom-made replacement teeth to immediately restore smiles. The implants work together to support chewing forces the same day they re placed, so you don t have to wait for your new teeth like you would with conventional implant surgery. Who can perform the dental implant process? General dentists restore implants, which means that they create and attach custom replacement teeth. A specialist, such as an oral surgeon or periodontist, performs the surgery to place the implant posts in the jawbone. General dentists and specialists work together to provide continuity of care and a high level of service. Is the implant process painful? Today s modern anesthesia methods make each step of the dental implant process comfortable and positive. If you experience dental anxiety, tell your dentist. State-of-the-art sedation techniques deliver a stress-free experience. Do some lifestyle choices or health conditions reduce implant success? Yes. Smoking, as well as uncontrolled chronic conditions and systemic health problems, hinder the healing process and lessen the success rate of dental implants. Your doctor can determine the appropriate solution for your unique needs. Is a patient s age a factor in determining implant candidacy? Dental implants are appropriate for patients of all ages, except for young children whose mouths are still growing. Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 11
DENTAL IMPLANTS: Q & A How do I care for my dental implants? Care for them as you do your natural teeth. Brush twice a day or as directed by the dentist, floss daily, and attend regular dental checkups. Properly maintaining your implants is crucial to keep them strong and secure. How long do dental implants typically last? With proper homecare and regular visits to the dentist, dental implants last most patients a lifetime. Will my replacement teeth look like the real thing? Yes! Teeth secured by dental implants are custom-made for your smile. Whether you need one or more crowns, a denture, partial, or bridge, your replacement teeth will be crafted from material that mimics the appearance of natural teeth. The dentist will design your permanent replacement teeth to fit your unique smile requirements and provide outstanding comfort and function. Contact our office today to schedule your implant consultation. DR. ROBERT MCNEILL, D.D.S., M.D. 6141 Sherry Lane, Dallas, TX 75225 1530 Forest Lane Suite D, Garland, TX 75042 TOLL-FREE: 800.615.1435 OR 877.200.4675 NEXT UP: DENTAL INDUSTRY SECRETS about Teeth-in-a-Day and All-on-4! 12 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
BONUS REPORT: LETTER FROM ROBERT G MCNEILL, DDS, MD When does Teeth-in-a-Day or All-on-4 dental treatment not make sense for you? One of the secrets in the dental industry is that these treatments may not make sense for all patients. Many large dental implant treatment centers perform the exact same treatment for most of their patients without customizing it for a patients unique needs. There are factors such as jaw function, medical history, presence of infection and many other issues that may not make it appropriate for you. At the outset, let me say that I do perform Teeth-in-a-Day and All-on-4 treatments, but only when it is appropriate. I am not against this treatment and it is certainly a remarkable procedure but I do think there is a little too much hype. However, there are many instances that this does not make sense. As good as technology is, we are still making many guesses with respect to how the teeth will look and be positioned. As a patient, I ask you to be open to all options that may give you a better result. Below I have listed some of the factors that would make me advise a more traditional approach to dental implant therapy with placement of implants and using temporary teeth not attached to the implants on that same day. It is important to note that you will have teeth at all times. Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 13
A patient that has infections in the jaw. Infections in the jaw can cause an infection around the implant which can cause the implant to fail. If the patient has certain medical conditions, in may be safer to have two smaller procedures with sedation instead of one longer sedation. It is often not appropriate to have the patient sedated for four to six hours while the dentist and the lab assistant are doing lab procedures. This can increase the risk of certain cardiovascular disorders as well as anesthetic risks. Sometimes material from the teeth can enter into the surgical site and cause inflammation or infections. It can also be more difficult for you to keep the surgical site clean when the teeth are attached the same day. When we remove teeth first we have the ability to perform more precise guided surgery based on computer virtual surgery. This can help us to avoid certain vital structures such as nerves and sinus cavities. If a patient has high esthetic demands and wants to see how the teeth will look before they are secured to the implants. This allows appropriate time for the dentist to make the teeth without feeling rushed as the patient is sedated. It also allows the patient to see the teeth without being sedated. It is hard for you as a patient to evaluate the look of the teeth when you are sedated. There is often pressure on the dentist to secure all the implants to the teeth during the day of the surgery even when the implants are not as stable as needed. This pressure comes from promising the patient, restorative dentist and lab assistant that teeth would be secured to the implants. This can cause ultimate failure of those weaker implants, delay treatment and would not be in the patient s best interest. 14 Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered
Overall, I know this sounds one sided but there is so much disinformation being given that I wanted to let you know what goes through my thought process. If Teeth-in-a-Day is right for you then it will certainly be my treatment advice. However, if I was spending my time and money on something as personal as my teeth I would want to consider all options and then deciding with my doctor the one that is best for me. Sincerely, Robert G. McNeill, D.D.S., M.D Dental Implants: Your Questions Answered 15