Rheumatoid Arthritis: How Your Dentist Can Help

It is possible that rheumatoid arthritis and periodontal disease are related to each other.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an auto-immune disease in which the body doesn’t recognize its own cells and attacks certain cells.

RA causes debilitating bone deformity and inflammation. Periodontal disease (perio) is a chronic inflammation that destroys oral tissues, especially teeth and the jawbones. [image shows normal bone height and bone loss caused by perio]

RA and perio share several characteristics, but the most striking is that they are chronic inflammatory diseases that destroy hard and soft tissues.

Studies show that someone who has RA is likely to have perio. The severity of someone’s RA is equal to the severity of their perio.

It is very encouraging that patients who underwent perio treatment reported that the severity of their RA decreased after the treatment!

RA and perio patients can greatly benefit from a home oral care routine that consists of regular brushing and flossing to remove harmful bacteria and plaque from their teeth.

They need to also keep their regular appointments for professional dental cleanings. Your hygienist uses special instruments to remove bacteria, plaque and tartar from places that you cannot reach at home.

Call today and schedule your regular cleaning appointment. Be sure and let us know if you have RA or any other medical condition. We can take better care of you when we have all the information.

Is This Bump in My Mouth Cancer?

 

Not all bumps are dangerous, but they shouldn’t be ignored.

You might “bite your lip” when you are tempted to say something you shouldn’t. However, biting your lip can result in a fluid-filled bubble called a “mucocele” that forms on the inner surface of your lip. />

Mucoceles are common in young children and adolescents. A mucocele typically appears after an injury like getting whomped in the mouth during a playful pillow fight or biting your lip or cheek when chewing food. An oral piercing in your lip or tongue can cause a mucocele.

The bubble is similar to a cyst. It will appear either clear or a bluish color and is filled with saliva. />

The soft tissue lining your oral cavity contains saliva glands with tiny tubes leading to the inside of your mouth. When tubes get injured, saliva seeps under the tissue and forms a bubble. Mucoceles can appear under your tongue or in the roof of your mouth—anywhere there is a saliva gland.

Most mucoceles are small. Yet, a small pinhead mucocele can grow to the size of a large grape. Mucoceles are painless and harmless, but they can be a nuisance. During its lifecycle, a mucocele will suddenly appear, fill, burst, heal over, then refill and burst again, which can cause scarring.

A mucocele needs attention if it does not go away within 3–4 weeks.

If you or a family member currently has a mucocele, do not try to drain it yourself. Come in and we’ll take care of it.
And, if you’re tempted to say something you shouldn’t, don’t bite your lip. Just remember Thumper’s mom’s advice, “If you can’t say somethin’ nice, don’t say nuthin’ at all.”

 

How to Get the SMILE You Want in Just an Hour!

A Consumer’s Guide to Dental Implants

 

 

Dr. Sajid Jivraj is not only a University Professor; he also has a dedication to dentistry. Wouldn’t you like the care from someone who is able to focus his talents so well? Dr. Jivraj’s commitment to providing the best for his patients is exemplified by the awesome smiles he creates. He is an excellent implant dentist and he can help you chew comfortably with all the skills he has mastered.

 

 

Dazzle Your Smile. •. Feel Whole Again … Regain Lost Function … Get Noticed By That Special Someone … Save Your Health and Live Longer … Get Back a Youthful Vibrancy … Look And Feel 10-20 Years Younger …

 

 

How To Get The Smile You Want With The Modern Miracle of Dental Implants.

 

Avoid Embarrassment … Energize Your Relationships … Eat the Foods You Want … Chew Comfortably and Confidently… Rekindle Romance … Live A Longer Life … Preserve Your Health Get Teeth that Look Good and Feel Good For A Lifetime.

 

This report is a detailed discussion of the extraordinary opportunities for you through the technologically advanced field of implant dentistry.

 

From: Dr. Sajid Jivraj, D.D.S., MS.Ed.

 

Dear Friend,

 

This Report reveals the amazing secrets of dental implants; the modem miracle that is bringing renewed smiles to the faces of patients from all over.

 

In this report I will present my case-that you can have the smile you’ve always wanted, “ridding yourself of dental handicaps” and get teeth that look good, feel good and chew comfortably while wiping out a serious unknown threat to how long you live and the quality of your life - and all with one decision - fully supported by a proven system of dental therapy I’ve developed over years of advanced training and real world experience.

 

I urge you to give this your serious and thorough consideration. I honestly believe it could very well be the information you need to know that could mean all the difference in your life. If this sounds like outrageous hype, I understand - yet I assure you it is true and I can prove it.

 

I can’t guarantee it will change your life. But I can guarantee that it has changed others lives dramatically for the better.

 

I can guarantee you need to know the full implication of the detrimental and often devastating effects that dental handicaps and diseases, missing teeth, unattractive smiles, and poorly functioning chewing mechanisms have on the quality and quantity for your life. It may sound exaggerated, but I assure you it’s true.

 

Who Benefits From Dr. Jivraj’s Implant Dentistry?

 

1) Anyone who wants to preserve their remaining teeth while replacing the missing ones.

 

2) Denture wearers frustrated and tired of the problems of full dentures and partial dentures … sick of the goo…, the pain … , the embarrassment of teeth that can literally fall out in their plate.

 

3) Those with bone loss that is causing loss of support for the face or causing ugly, disfiguring appearances to the face.

 

4) Those who have missing teeth or those about to lose teeth due to decay or fracture.

 

5) Accident victims who want to regain function and appearance.

 

6) Those who want leading edge technology and techniques.

 

7) Those who have just “had it” with their teeth.

 

Those whose teeth are otherwise perfect- except for just 1 or 2 missing teeth.

 

9) Those committed to a high level of dental health.

 

10) Those with a mouthful of problems that just seem to get worse and worse.

 

11) Those with dentures that “float around” displacing at the worst possible times (also known as Murphy’s Law of Denture Movement- it happens at the worst possible time).

 

12) Those considering missing tooth replacement of any kind.

 

13) Those that have significant gum disease.

 

14) Those disappointed with earlier attempts to fix their teeth.

 

15) Those considering major dental work.

 

16) Those with replacement bridges they really don’t like having.

 

17) Those who don’t want removable teeth at all.

 

18) Those who deserve the best dentistry has to offer for the problems of missing teeth.

 

19) Those who want to recapture their youthful appearance.

 

20) Those who don’t want to experiment with removable teeth.

 

21) Those who want common sense answers to their functional and appearance related problems.

 

 

A Perfect Example of How Dr. Jivraj’s Implant Dentistry Can Restore Your Dental Health, Function, and Beauty:

 

“I am extremely satisfied with the quality of the restoration work Dr Jivraj has done for me.  In addition to improving my bite and minimizing the discomfort from tooth erosions that have been plaguing me for years, he managed to give me confidence to smile extemporaneously and without reservation.  I am indebted to the team at Anacapa Dental Art Institute  for their efficiency, courtesies and accommodation to my work schedule and to Dr Jivraj for his expertise.”

 

Joe Tucker

Santa Barbara, CA

 

 

There are a lot of dental problems that people suffer from needlessly. I’m going to talk about them, to lay the groundwork for what I have developed to solve the relentless problems of missing teeth. This is:

 

• A solution to virtually everything that people tell me they dislike about their teeth and their dental experiences.

 

• A proven solution to virtually every anxiety that threatens to prevent you from receiving dental care as frequently as you should.

 

• A solution that provides you with the chance to re-claim your dental health, to recover from neglect, injury or bad luck of your draw in the gene pool.

 

What If?

There Was A Type Of Dentistry That You Could Experience That…

 

1.     Would virtually guarantee you a better dental experience.

 

2.      Gives you a vibrant youthful smile you can be proud of.

 

3.     Allows you to have gentle, comfortable dental care.

 

4.     Affords you the opportunity to chew comfortably without worry of embarrassing moments.

 

5.     Frees you from the dental diseases that threatened your longevity and the longevity of your loved ones (this is astonishing data you must know)

 

6.     Is designed especially for your needs and to complete treatment in as few visits as possible.

 

7.     Lets you sleep well at night, secure in the knowledge you have received state-of-the-art dentistry based on the latest scientifically proved research.

 

8.     Gives you teeth that feel good and look good and were designed to stay that way.

 

If that actually existed, how interested in it would you be?

 

How willing would you be to set aside past experiences and ingrained beliefs and habits to seriously consider a new and better way to reclaim or maintain you dental health?

 

How much is that worth to you?  You need to know its true value to your health and happiness.

 

  

Hey, I Just Realized You Might Not Know … What is A Dental Implant?

 

A dental implant is a biocompatible, man-made substitute to replace missing tooth roots; it is usually made of a space-age alloy of titanium. Implants come in various shapes and sizes to fit the situation. Most are cylinders placed into bone and allowed to heal undisturbed while bone heals around them, locking them in like an anchor. After a few months, the implants are used as a foundation for replacing the missing teeth.

 

Dental implants restore lost chewing ability, improve appearance, and embarrassment, and give real self-confidence to patients who need them. They are a real breakthrough!

 

Here’s How it Works …

 

The steps of the implant procedure itself are quite simple:

 

1.  If there is a damaged tooth, it must be painlessly removed.

 

2. The “implant”, a small threaded titanium post is planted into your actual jawbone. Another kind, one with a special base, can be attached on top of the jawbone, underneath your gum line. The thickness and type of bone at the implant’s location determine which style post should be used. Local anesthesia and Dr. Jivraj’s Sedation Dentistry makes this a VERY comfortable process.

 

3. Your body immediately begins to “bond” the titanium post into place with bone or tissue. This is a very thorough process and may take from two to six months before the next step can begin. Your body does not reject these new materials, but ties them in with great strength as if they were a natural part of your own body. You may elect to wear a temporary denture during this binding process, if you choose.

 

4. Once the titanium implant is tightly in place, a wider post is now attached to the titanium implant and your new tooth is attached to this second post with one of the worlds most secure and space age adhesives. Bonding is virtually forever!

 

5. You have a new tooth. You are the only one who knows it’s man- made and implants are so comfortable you’ll soon forget which one it is.

 

Your body thinks it’s your own - so will you!

 

Dental implants are the most stable and economically far-sighted solution to the very real problem of missing teeth. This procedure is one that I have done repeatedly for satisfied patients over many years. My friendly staff also has in-depth training and great experience in this area and will be happy to answer any questions that may occur to you.

 

 

Do You Think You’ll Suffer With Dentures Forever? .. You Can’t Wear Dentures Another Day? .. You Can’t Smile and Chew Like You Used To?

 

Right here in Ventura County, we have a complete approach to replacing lost or failing teeth that really works. That’s why I am so deeply concerned when I see people who honestly want to smile confidently, chew confidently, look younger and be healthier; people who are bitterly disappointed with their old dentures, partials or failing teeth, who despair over earlier failed attempts to get their teeth straight. Dental Implants Restore Lost Chewing Ability, Improve Appearance, End Embarrassment, and Give You Real Self- Confidence. They are a real breakthrough.

 

Today dental implants are the professions’ preferred method of replacing missing teeth. Because of proven success, preservation of existing teeth, and no susceptibility to dental decay (cavities), dental implants are the answer to missing teeth.

 

Have You Been Told You Can’t Have A Dental Implant?

 

If you have been told you aren’t a candidate because of a lack of supporting bone, you should come in and see us! We can almost always figure out ways to solve that problem so you can have implant restorations with today’s techniques.  

Are you embarrassed to smile or open your mouth because of missing teeth, unattractive replacements, or ill-Fitting dentures or partials?

 

30 million people in the U. S. have no teeth in one or both arches but mostly are unaware of what dentistry can do to improve their health. Tens of millions more have lost some teeth. Implants can restore your chewing function to the equivalent of someone with natural teeth.

 

Do You Suffer From These Effects of Missing And Failing Teeth?

 

(Check all that apply to you)

 

c       Pain on Chewing 

 

c       Anxiety about your Smile

 

c       Avoid eating in public 

 

c       Ill fitting/unattractive partials

 

c       Nutritional disorders 

 

c       Teeth are unsightly

 

c       Avoid certain foods

 

c        Teeth are uncomfortable

 

c       Teeth do not look real

 

c        Teeth grinding

 

c       Difficulty in dealing with stress

 

c        Social Embarrassment

 

c       Difficulty in sleeping

 

c        Difficulty swallowing

 

c       Change in foods you eat

 

c        Face falling in

 

c       Altered taste of food

 

c        Inconvenience

 

c       Loss of support for the face

 

c        Shrinking bone

 

c       Gag Reflex

 

c        A need to feel whole again

 

c       Bad breath that won’t go away

 

c        Feel older than you are

 

c       Loss of Self Esteem

 

c        Depression over your teeth

 

c       Unattractive Smile

 

c        Difficulty chewing

 

c       Mouth sores

 

c       Difficulty speaking

 

c       Unstable dentures

 

c        Burning Sensations

 

c       Unnatural feel

 

c        Increased wrinkles

 

c       Ashamed to Smile

 

c       Digestive disorders

 

c       Shrinking gums

 

c        Headaches

 

c       Must use Denture Adhesive

 

c       Jaw is sore

 

c       Numbness in face and lips

 

c       Withdrawal from social interaction

 

c       Difficulty in dating relationships or sex life because of your teeth

 

c        Limitations of foods that can be eaten/restricted diet

 

c       Difficulty adjusting to life without your own teeth

 

c       Food trapped between or under your teeth

 

c       Avoid being seen in public

 

c       Depressed/insecure without my partials/dentures

 

c       Avoid foods I would like to have

 

c       I chew better without my partials/dentures

 

 

The Blunt Truth about Missing Teeth

 

Missing Teeth Biologically Impair Man.  Man is the only animal that can live at all without its teeth. But how well?

 

Only the ignorant would fail to recognize the implication of this: missing teeth undoubtedly hampers the human being making it more difficult biologically to function.

 

You Will Need Your Teeth Longer

 

Man is living longer. The average age lifespan continues to lengthen. At the time of Alexander the Great the average lifespan was 21 years of age! Scientists are now predicting 50-year life spans within the next fifteen to fifty years. People are living longer. They need their teeth longer - YOU need your teeth longer.

 

Missing Teeth Help Destroy Self Confidence And Change How You Smile

 

Do You Hide your Smile?

It is readily apparent when a front tooth is missing. It is a big deal and everybody knows it. What about the teeth on the side that are missing? Some people kid themselves into thinking it doesn’t show.

 

Do you hold your lips a certain way … so no one can see your “hole?” Do you turn away from people … even if only slightly to mask the ‘gap’?

 

Do you restrict your smile from a big grin even at the funniest moments?

 

A single missing tooth can cause damage that you can’t feel or see until it is often too late. Just one, that’s right, one tooth missing can cause a cascade of events that have led millions of people to lose teeth needlessly.

 

It is the missing tooth that doesn’t show, that people kid themselves into thinking “everything is ok”. It isn’t. Few, if any people, would dream of leaving a gap in the front of their mouth … ruining their smile. But many will do it in the back of their mouth -unknowingly harming their smile and health.

 

Did you know a missing tooth in the back can affect your smile often so slowly that you hardly notice until it becomes a major problem - costing large amounts of money and time to fix? It could have been prevented.

 

Are you making this mistake?

 

Here is the mistake I don’t want you to make: You say to yourself, “I can’t see it, it doesn’t hurt, I’ll leave it like that.” These are the words of the average, unknowing person who doesn’t realize the serious and even life threatening effects that loss of a tooth can cause.

 

Let’s examine why: Mother Nature designed your teeth to work together, each tooth designed to perform a certain function. When a member of the group is lost, more work is required out of the remaining teeth.

 

The other teeth start to shift towards the hole left by the missing tooth. The teeth on either side will tilt into the space; the tooth above grows down. 

 

Gaps open up. Teeth shift!

 

Your smile changes for the worse.

 

Now your bite is thrown off, almost always causing a destructive bite.

 

Destructive bites can cause headaches, … jaw joint pain that can be intolerable, … broken teeth, … and teeth that wear too fast; in fact, a destructive bite will double the age of your teeth in just a few years.

 

Have you ever seen someone with short front teeth? Chances are about 20 to 1 that the destructive bite is the cause. Destructive bites ruin smiles. Don’t let that happen to you.

 

Back to our missing tooth, the tooth that grows down into the space is now threatened by gum disease because of its awkward, poor position. The space where the missing tooth was creates a trap for food and bacteria that give you an absolute fit trying to keep clean. Gum disease is an infection that spreads to the body doubling the risk for heart disease, heart attack and multiple other health related problems.

 

So literally, what was once ‘just a missing tooth’ in the back can now be life threatening. And, if one tooth missing can cause this many problems, multiple missing teeth can cripple you. Missing teeth change the way you chew for the worse your comfort in chewing diminishes, sometimes so severely that eating becomes a pain a pain you are forced to live with every day of your life…. a pain that doesn’t get better by itself. …. a pain that only gets worse. The more teeth you have missing, the worse it is.

 

Diseased Teeth And Gums Threaten Your Health … (AND YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH!)

 

Some people hold on to teeth that are diseased because they don’t want to lose their teeth. But because they are diseased and should be removed, they threaten their own health and, worse, the health of the ones they love the most! These same bacteria are infectious to others around you.

 

 

An explanation: The bacteria on your teeth and in your gums travel to other parts of the body, wreaking havoc along the way such as:

 

*         Heart Disease is worsened

 

*         Heart Attack risks are increased -up to 200%

 

*         Stroke risks are increased

 

*         Worsened arthritis

 

*         Increased low birth weight in babies

 

*         Pre-disposes you to illness generally

 

*         Generalized decreased energy to cope with life

 

*         Worsened diabetic conditions-more difficult to control and maintain

 

*         Those with gum infections are estimated to live 6-10 years less than those with healthy mouths!

 

We know. . It is this bad. But, more research is being done in this field. (It is likely that the effects of oral disease are far more dangerous than we presently know)

 

Now here is the real kicker: those with diseased teeth and gums can and do spread these bacteria to their spouses, children and family members.

 

Who doesn’t share a spoon or glass or bit of food? According to some studies the chances are about 70% that people who live together will share the same bacteria. Who hasn’t experienced one member of the family getting the flu and subsequently everyone else in the family does too?

 

All the more reason that every family member should work to attain and maintain dental health. It is the right thing to do. No sane person wants to contaminate his spouse and or children.

 

 



Do You Love To Eat?

 

Why Enjoying The Taste And Experience Of Your Food Is More Important Than Ever

 

Eating is one of life’s pleasures … the foods we eat fill our senses … just the sight of a beautifully prepared meal can make one’s mouth water in excited anticipation…. the sweet aroma can bring those you love rushing to the table … the feel of foods in your fingers and in your mouth amplifies the experience of the pleasure of eating … the sound of laughter and congenial conversation fills dinner tables throughout the land. And of course, the taste of your food Ahhhhh…. the taste … the tangy orange … the tart lemon … the salty potato chip the sizzling steak … the crisp apple the crunchy raw carrot. .. the hard cashew and the soft banana … the sweet chocolate.  All of these are part of the food experience most all of us relish.

 

Meal times are when we all join together and enjoy not only the foods but also the relationships of family, friends and their special someone’s that make life worth living. Our meals are times we unite with those we care about and put aside the stresses of the day.

 

It is a rejuvenation of not only our bodies with needed nutrients…. and a rejuvenation of our relationship with those we value … with those who add richness to our lives.

 

Knowing how important these times are to your health and happiness, makes having teeth that look good, feel good, and function properly that much more vital to quality living every day of your life.

 

Dentures Decrease Function And Change The Foods You Eat For The Worse

 

There are very good reasons why dentures and partials fail you- Why you can’t chew comfortably and smile confidently no matter how hard you try.

 

Natural teeth with their roots implanted in the gum and surrounded by bone are able to exert about 250 pounds per square inch. For normal chewing, natural teeth exert an average pressure of 45 pounds per square inch of force, ranging up to 75 pounds.

 

• With dentures, the average chewing pressure is reduced to 14 pounds per square inch and for some as little as 5 pounds per square inch. THIS IS A FIVE-FIFTEEN FOLD DECREASE IN CHEWING EFFECTIVENESS!

 

• If you are a denture wearer, you know this tremendous loss of pressure means having to completely change your eating habits. Many foods need to be eliminated completely. You have to cut your food into small pieces.

 

• The average lower denture shifts side to side approximately ½ inch during chewing and is one of the problems which make getting used to it so difficult.

 

The types of food that are easier to chew are carbohydrates and high calorie foods because of their softness. Therefore denture wearers often fall into two categories: overweight, because of all the calories, and at the other extreme, underweight - because of the inability to chew food correctly.

 

• Denture wearers also complain that the taste, temperature, texture and enjoyment of food are decreased. They may add additional salt and spices to food to give it more taste.

 

• It is not really surprising that this occurs because the plastic of their dentures insulates the tissue that is responsible for giving a person “the sense” of their food. The result of increased weight and excess salt can lead to high blood pressure, and problems of the digestive tract. Forty percent (40%) of heart disease is related to high blood pressure and arterioscleroses.

 

• According to Dr. Misch, world-renowned implant dentist, the average denture wearer has a 10-year shorter life span!

 

 

Don’t Let Missing Teeth Rob You of The Pleasures of Living.

 

Who wants to cut his food up into baby-sized pieces in order to cope with “getting it down”? It’s too embarrassing. Who wants to bite into their food and realize this normal sized piece is just way to big to manage? Spitting into a napkin is never fun!

 

Some people try to cope with their lack of chewing ability by swallowing foods almost whole! This alone can be life threatening. People die from choking every day. Assuming the unchewed chunk doesn’t choke you, it gives your digestive tract fits, constipation and irregularity and ”who knows what else” as the result.

 

So what is the other choice? Give up the foods you like to eat that provide the nutrients you need … If you can’t chew your food, change your diet to soft foods … You are reduced to foods that have the same consistency as baby food. You know a steak just doesn1t seem the same after going through a blender!

 

Implants Help -A Lot!!

 

Studies indicate that after 2 months of having implanted supported replacement teeth, patients were able to increase their maximal biting force by 85%. After 3 years the average chewing force increased 300% compared to before implant treatment.

 

Overall, the chewing ability of patients with implant-supported teeth is roughly equal to patients with healthy, natural teeth, and vastly superior to patients with conventional dentures.

 

Missing teeth encourages wrinkling and pre-mature aging.  The bone, which surrounds the teeth, must be stimulated from within or the body dissolves (reabsorbs) it. This results in dentures or partials, which repeatedly need to be relined or remade. It also results in creases and wrinkles in the face.

 

The space between the nose and chin decreases. The nose then appears larger or more prominent. The face looks like it is frowning when at rest because the comers of the mouth pull down and form creases. The lower part of the face looks fallen in. The chin looks like it comes to a point or a “witch’s chin”.

 

The tongue may actually enlarge because of the increased demands placed on it from missing teeth. This can cause speech and chewing problems. Thankfully, the tongue adapts well to implant supported replacement teeth.

 

No wonder dentures may affect a person’s health, both physically and psychologically. A sense of security may be lost. It may affect success in personal or business relationships. It may alter your speech, looks and function.  Many patients have come in looking older than their chronological age (a fifty year old who looks seventy, for example).

 

After dental implants they enjoyed dental and facial rejuvenation. Often the change makes them look 10-15 years younger than their actual age. Moreover, those who receive treatment with implants slow down the clock of aging substantially. They look younger longer.

 

Partial Dentures Cause Bone Loss Too!

 

At the end of 5 years, only 40% of partial denture wearers are still wearing the partial denture made for them. Those patients still wearing partial dentures are all losing bone! What is the use and value of that?

 

• Of those wearing a partial, 50% chew better without it!

 

• In one study, after 8 years, 40% of teeth which hook to the partial were lost through decay or fracture.

 

• Partials exert pressure on the gum and bone causing bone loss, which makes the partial even more difficult to wear.

 

Don’t Hold Onto Diseased Teeth Too Long Just to Save Your Teeth While Destroying Your Jaw Bones!

 

Gum and bone infections (periodontal disease) are a very destructive process that not only causes loss of teeth but also the remaining bone. Many people as a result of their deep desire to keep their teeth and to avoid dentures are suffering with severely diseased teeth.  The damage caused by this disease is often extensive and permanent. This causes severe loss of bone that could have been used to support implants!

 

1t is possible that these teeth can be removed and have a complete restoration of function without full dentures. Sometimes it is possible to treat some of these teeth and incorporate them, along with implants, into a fixed, non-removable full set of teeth.

 

Denture Adhesives Are Not A Good Solution

 

In the United States each year more than 90 million dollars is spent by the public on denture adhesives. The denture adhesives themselves have unpleasant tastes, must be reapplied often, give an inconsistent fit of the denture, have continued costs, and create embarrassing circumstances.

 

89% Better Outlook On Life

 

For many people in our culture the loss of teeth is associated with aging. Implants give a psychological lift to these people with missing teeth who would otherwise have some feelings of inadequacy related to aging and loss of teeth.

 

In fact, in a study by Branemark, 89% of patients treated with dental implants judged their psychological health improved compared to before treatment. The majority of these patients perceived their implant supported replacement teeth as an integral part of their own body.

 

Dental Implants Give Predictable Success Several studies have been published which indicate implant treatment of the patient with missing teeth is more predictable long term than many other more typical therapies in dentistry, including the often used 4 tooth fixed bridge. The success rate for 4 tooth bridges on natural teeth is about 85% over a 5-10 year period. For implant-supported teeth the success rate is 90% or more for the same period of time.

 

In a study by Branemark, he reported a 93% success rate over the last ten years for the sub perio steal implant (a particular implant type that sits on the bone under the gum). Turner and Small have scientifically reported success rates between 94% and 98% for the last ten years.

 

All of these studies reported implant treatment for lower jaws with all missing teeth. This is particularly good news because the lower denture is the one that is the most problematic. Of course, success cannot be guaranteed, but it is nice to know that success rates are so high.

My own success rates are now at 90+%.

 

Dental Implants Work With A Single Or Multiple Missing Teeth

 

Today we can replace single teeth, several teeth in a section of the jaw, or the entire arches of teeth. Dental implants allow you to go from the state of advanced gum disease with its loose and uncomfortable, infected teeth to a full set of non-removable teeth. Every situation involving missing teeth presents its own set of unique requirements and there are ways to meet almost every need.

 

Almost All People With Missing Teeth Can Benefit From Implants

 

It is rare that a person cannot receive an implant or a combination of implant types.

 

There are no two people alike in their need for dental reconstruction and different needs for implants within the same jaw exists too. Today we have available many types of implants designed to accommodate multiple problems.

 

The ability to utilize multiple implant techniques is an essential ingredient to the successful use of implants. No one design will cover all situations. Function, appearance, comfort and inconvenience dictate implant selection.

  

Advantages of Dr. Jivraj’s Implant Dentistry

 

1) Proven success of dental implants for our patients

 

2) Experienced know-how that solves your problems, … using what works for you in your individual situation

 

3) Preservation of existing teeth

 

4) Rejuvenation of the form and shape of the face

 

5) Wrinkle elimination in many cases. Often a dental facelift is a happy by product of dental implant treatment.

 

6) Gorgeous smiles

 

7) An advanced “smart” system of diagnosis and treatment

 

Restored chewing ability

 

9) Relief from the pain .of dentures and partials

 

10) No embarrassing accidents of teeth falling out

 

11) Enhanced zest for life

 

12) Getting noticed by that special someone you want to notice you

 

13) More smiles, a lot more smiles

 

14) A system that carefully considers how to make your teeth look their best while functioning properly and staying healthy

 

15) Built on a thoroughness approach that gives you predictable results

 

16) Stops your situation from getting worse

 

17) A physician of the mouth approach applying the science of the comfort, health, function, and longevity of the teeth, gums, jaw joints, and chewing mechanism, based on solid principles…. time tested and…. coupled with the latest dental research.

 

18) An investment in yourself that pays big dividends every day of your life.

 

19) A demanding discipline that is a daily challenge, but one that my team and I embrace. We won’t compromise results. We will give options, but refuse to give a bad option.

 

20) A unified system that uses the best of the best in techniques and technology.

 

21) An ever-evolving system of care designed to get great treatment results, enhance comfort and reduce anxiety and leave you with a radiant smile.

 

22) The result of an extended study of over 11 years that costs huge untold sums and thousands of hours of additional training and research beyond what is required to be a dentist. … that continues on even today.

 

23) The end of Dental Embarrassment!

 

24) A comprehensive approach combining the best practices of treatment learned and observed inside and outside the profession.

 

25) A system that carefully considers how to make your teeth look their best while functioning properly and staying healthy

 

26) The artistic pursuit of beautiful teeth and gorgeous smiles

 

27) Comfortable, confidant chewing in social situations

 

28) Preservation of your youthful appearance- resistance to aging.

 

 

If Dentistry Has Been Difficult For You, The Dread Is Gone! It’s Over! You Can Relax!

 

Really you can, I know. I know. It can be hard for you if you have had a nightmare of an experience. No longer because…. Stone Age Dentistry Is a Thing of The Past

 

Dentistry of just 10-20 years ago was absolutely Stone Age compared to dentistry today in our office. At Dr. Jivraj’s office we recognize what has stopped so many from having a beautiful smile they are proud of and achieving real dental health for life.

 

And, we have done something about it. Our system uses newly developed techniques and technology to make your visit easier, faster and more comfortable.

 

 

 

The commitment to your comfort starts with a unique office design created to produce a noise reducing, quiet environment.

 

The dental chairs themselves feature Swedish foam that comfortably molds to your body, making it easier to relax

 

We are “Armed to The Teeth” With Technology and Techniques to Create a Better Dental Experience

 

Even the colors were chosen scientifically to help create a relaxing environment. We use CD players and stereo headphones so you can hear the sounds you want and drown out the sounds you don’t!

 

We have an understanding of what the typical fearful or anxious patient experiences- and just how different it can be for them. If this describes you, you’ll be comforted first by a special chair side manner that puts you at ease.  Then, there is the matter of getting numb. We use a unique, virtually painless numbing method that is easy to experience.

 

 

 

You’ll be offered a blanket to keep you warm. Then, we’ll give as brief or detailed explanation as you would like about what we find, what we do and why. A full explanation helps you know what to expect.

 

For those needing something extra, that bit of extra help in managing themselves, we utilize oral sedation to take the “edge off’.

 

 

Looking Good

 

The cosmetic question has never been better answered than it is today. Of course, the function has already been assured with the stability and retention given to replacement teeth by dental implants.

 

With the materials and techniques available today we are able to create a natural appearance. Lost lip and cheek support from the shrinkage of gums are managed well using implant techniques. Dental implants increase your ability to taste and savor food.  Many times when there has been a great deal of bone loss, lip and cheek support can be built right into the tooth portion of reconstruction.

 

Attractiveness Determines How Other People Perceive And Treat You

 

Scientific research has proven what many people already know; the better you look, the better others treat you. The point here is that the advantage of attractiveness is very greatly underestimated. The size and reach of attractiveness is huge. Why? Because people who are seen as attractive are believed to be smarter, more talented, kind, and honest.

 

This is true throughout our entire society. In other words, your smile and teeth determine a great deal of how much other people want to be around you. With a great smile you become more promote-able … more attractive to the opposite sex … more likely to be viewed as someone that others want to be friends with … more trustworthy.

 

Social Advantages Of Looking Good

 

Good-looking people enjoy a tremendous social advantage. They are viewed as more intelligent. They are better liked. They are seen as having more desirable personalities. Attractive people are more persuasive and more likely to be given help by others.

 

An Investment In Yourself

 

Most people find the increased confidence provided by secure implant supported teeth as well as improved appearance and vastly improved function more than offset the relatively minor discomfort and inconvenience associated with the implant procedures.

 

Implants make Good Economic Sense Admittedly; dental implants can be a significant investment. Before committing to any investment, you should always consider its amount, under what terms it could be paid, the quality of what you get in exchange and what your alternatives are.

 

The initial investment of a dental implant is higher than other methods. Dental implants can run from $3700.00 for a single tooth to $22,000 per arch or more. Usually not every tooth requires replacement with a dental implant. Typically for denture sufferers, a dental implant resolution to this problem can range from 12 to 22 thousand dollars.

 

Fees for this special, unique service vary significantly from individual to individual.

 

Why? Because everyone is different. Just as each person has a different fingerprint, you, too have a different need than everyone else. This makes it impossible to quote a fee without examination. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all service. The needs, wants and desires are just too variable.

 

Why do so many people find it worth the extra cost? Aside from its longevity and hygienic effects, an implant can be undistinguishable from your natural, perfect tooth. An implant can last the rest of your life. Given the proper care and maintenance, implants can be a “one time investment”.

 

The materials, titanium and porcelain are strong and durable- these can almost endure forever. Implants are set into the jawbone or down on it so that your living bone and tissue grow into and around it forming an unbreakable anchor. Your new tooth is custom designed to match your teeth and fit right in.

 

So, how do you find out what fees are involved? A private, complimentary consultation will help determine the range of fees for your rejuvenation. Note this: the fees we quote include not just the implants, but also the completed teeth, too, a distinct advantage. Here we can work together to find the best solution for you based on what you want to achieve. You’ll get a chance to receive a very detailed understanding of what is possible for you, meet our staff of professionals and get a tour of our leading-edge facility.

 

Prevent Pain, Save Money

 

Dental implants help prevent the many costly and often painful dental problems that can arise later. Other potential health problems are also eliminated since one’s nutrition is returned to normal by a diet of healthy foods.

 

Financing Made Easy

 

We offer a generous financing plan for qualified individuals to help with larger procedures. Often, your dental and medical insurance will help pay an important percentage of the total costs. Since the dental implanting procedures take place in gradual steps over time, your investment can be spread out as long as payment is complete when work is finished.

 

 

The Horrible Hidden Costs of Not Doing Treatment

 

The big thing is this: ignored dental problems get worse. If you think you are having trouble now, look ahead- imagine what it could be like to suffer even more, to be forced to endure more pain- I can guarantee you the problems will worsen.

 

 

• The pain of romance snuffed out

 

• The pain of teeth that don’t look good

 

• The pain of tender, sensitive, uncomfortable teeth

 

• The pain of lost ability to enjoy your foods

 

• The pain of worsened nutrition and health

 

• The pain of outright pain every time you bite down

 

• The pain of lessened self-confidence

 

• The pain of depleted friendships

 

• The pain of withdrawal from friends and family due to social embarrassment

 

• The pain of losing the attention of that “certain someone” you want noticing you

 

• The pain of losing the promotion that should have been yours

 

• The pain of ever-increasing unsightly gaps among your teeth that worsen as you grow older

 

• The pain of threatened health: up to 2-4 times the risk of heart attack and stroke, worsened diabetes, arthritis that won’t get better

 

• The pain of increasingly depleted physical energy

 

• The pain of the loss of your zest for life

 

For some, the pain means depression, a black cloud hanging over your life that won’t go away

 

I hope that none of these befall you. But, the longer you wait, one (or many more) of these pains most certainly will come upon you.

 

So, the costs of not getting dental implant treatment is far, far worse and can be the ultimate cost – death, your life cut short by neglecting, ignoring, hoping it will go away, putting it off and just not facing up to the very real, dark implications of not doing what you should.

 

Don’t let those little voices inside your head cast doubt that stops you. Don’t let those little voices make you feel too embarrassed to get treatment…. to do something about it. Take charge and get the treatment you deserve.

 

Enhance Your Career Make More Money

 

For many high-level executives, sales people, realtors, small business owners and anyone who deals with the public … their mouth is how they make their money. It is their communication, appearance and self- confidence that allow them to get their jobs done and help others. Could you even imagine an entertainer or media person with unattractive teeth? Absolutely not! Thus, their “look” is critical to their success!

 

Guess what? … Your looks are vital for your success too … if you need to get others to do things, to persuade them or win them over in some way. And who doesn’t? Dental implants could just possibly be the best dollars you’ll ever invest-making you more able to influence others to your way of thinking… Winning that promotion…. Making more sales… Putting a lot more money into your pocket.

 

A Case of Investing in Yourself

 

Take the case of Jenny. Jenny was a stay-at-home mom, a well educated woman with multiple talents but who had now chosen to go back into the work force.

 

She had a problem: her teeth. Somehow she had never gotten around to them during all those years while her kids were growing up. Yes, she had regular check-ups but never did anything about them. Now she needed her mouth to look good to be able to get a job that paid her fairly well.

 

Oh, she got a job offer all right, for $22,000, but she knew the job she could get if she looked right…. if she could smile with ease … easily and often … probably about $48,000. ” A BIG difference.

 

It was going to cost many thousands to get her teeth fixed up. Jenny had the money but she was investing it, saving it for the “future”. She decided not to get her teeth fixed she got the 22,000 a year job.

 

Brenda was like Jenny: a stay-at-home mom, well educated, multi- talented.

Brenda had missing teeth and smile problems galore. Brenda had a job offer for $22,000 too … and there had been that $48,000 a year job also.

 

Her treatment was going to be many thousands plus, even more than Jenny’s. But Brenda was bright. She had saved the money just like Jenny. Brenda was a thinker.  She reasoned that even at 10% return on her money she would be better off with an increase in pay of $26,000 each year. Plus getting the dental work done gave her a substantial tax deduction. Not to mention all the other benefits of a healthy mouth that looked good and felt good. Brenda got her treatment done. She got her job … the one she really wanted and the pay she deserved.

 

You Aren’t Ever Too Old To Have A Healthy Mouth

 

Not unless you have one foot in the grave and you are on your deathbed! Now if you were in that situation, you wouldn’t be reading this!

 

Why is it then you can’t be too old for needed dental care? I believe a significant part of the answer lies with the aforementioned effects of having a healthy mouth on extending the length of your life and improving the quality of it.

 

Another reason is to maintain the health of those you love around you. You pass along your infection to them as we discussed!

 

Another recent study showed that most folks who wind up in nursing homes wear an upper denture and by that time things have gotten so bad in their mouth that they can no longer wear their dentures. A very unfortunate thing is that the last memories they leave behind for their grandchildren is grandma or grandpa without any teeth. The good news is that with my methods no one has to think about this happening to their grandchildren.

 

Yet another reason: when you have teeth that work, that look good and feel good, your relationship with the world around you and within yourself is significantly better.

 

I discussed the importance of your smile yet is a vital tool of communicating relating and promoting yourself in your work. Your smile increases the pleasure others have in dealing with you and subsequently enhances all your relationships with others.

 

Even another reason: As you get older, material items become less important. What becomes more important is how you feel, your overall health and maintaining relationships with those you love.

 

Having a healthy, properly functioning mouth affects every one of these desirable qualities.

 

It Does Take Time, But Less Then Yon Imagine!

 

Implants do take some time. But ask yourself this question: If my dental health is more important to my longevity than stopping smoking - just how important is my dental health?

 

According to one source, those with good dental health lived 6.6 years longer lives while those who stopped smoking increased their life by only 5.2 years

 

If you look at this as a careful judge your gavel comes down with a pounding affinitive -it is worth the time even if you don’t have it. Like everything else worth having, it takes some time.

 

Now with today’s technology, treatment is easier, more convenient and takes less time than ever before. Make the time for yourself -you are worth it.

 

Need I point out to you that your spouse, partner, children, or grandchildren are counting on you. Even if you are very busy making a living to provide for your loved ones, what would happen if you had a serious health problem from not getting and maintaining a healthy mouth?  How much income do you lose then? How much income do you lose by not having an attractive smile?  It is a lot more than you think!

 

 

 

 

Competence Yon Can Count On

 

 

Comparatively, few dentists have taken the time, the extra courses, seminars, and hands-on training to be able to perform dental implants at such a high level.

 

“Implantology”, as this art and science is called, requires specialized procedures, instrumentation, and equipment.

 

During the process, you and Dr. Jivraj may have many options. You can rest assured that Dr. Jivraj knows all of these- and can make them clear to you when they come up.

 

For years, Dr. Jivraj’s patients have referred friends to him for his expertise, friendly communication, and ability to get results.

 

Dr. Jivraj is a member of the International Congress of Oral Implantology, The American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the Academy of Osseointegration

 

He has taught at the University of Southern California School of Dentistry where is was the former chairman of the section of Fixed Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry. He currently teaches in the Advanced Prosthodontic program

 

Dr. Jivraj teaches his proprietary techniques to other dentists to help them help their patients better.

 

 

His commitment to “doing it right” and the ability to “handle just about anything” has won him the admiration of patients and other doctors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Patients That Have Implants Report

 

Based on a study of 350 dental implant patients

 

1.Knowing what you know now, would YOU have the treatment again?

*         98 % said yes

 

2.Was the treatment worth the investment?

*         98% said yes

 

3.Was there a significant improvement in your ability to eat and chew?

*         97% said yes

 

4. Was there a significant improvement in appearance?

*         98% said yes

 

5. Was there a significant overall improvement?

*         96% said yes

 

 

We Can Be More Than Just Your Implant Dentist

 

Our staff is ready to help you so that your total dental experience is the same we would want for ourselves.

 

As a full service dental practice, Dr. Sajid Jivraj D.D.S. can help you with all the routine services you would expect, along with the ones that you don’t commonly see in most dental offices.

 

Among the routine services we offer are examinations, cleanings, check- ups, conservative gum treatment, fillings, laser diagnostics, advanced x-rays and computerized dental diagnostics, root canals, crowns, bridges, removable partial dentures, and cosmetic dentures.

 

Among the not commonly seen services are:

 

*         Cosmetic Dentistry Services- Smile make-over based on computer assisted Smile design to give you the look you’ve always wanted. See the “after” before we even start!

 

*         Rapid Whitening to give you white, bright teeth in about an hour.

 

*         Extreme Power Whitening if Hollywood white is your goal, then this is the technique for you.

 

*         Super-Strong tooth-colored materials so teeth don’t look gray or dark at the gum line giving natural looking teeth.

 

*         Full cosmetic consultation for challenging, difficult situations- restoring smiling and chewing to how they should be.

 

*         Bad Breath Evaluation and Treatment

 

*         Advanced Computerized diagnostics for jaw, joint problems and physiologically based dental reconstructions.

 

*         Advanced three dimensional x-rays

 

*         Advanced laser diagnostics

 

*         Dental Implant Therapy- To replace missing teeth and rebuild smiles, performing all aspects of the treatment.

 

*         Advanced Gum Therapy- Which includes wing dental lasers, plastic surgery for your gums to make them look right, regenerative surgery using bone grafts to rebuild missing bone, specialized antibiotics to treat resistant gum disease. Old-fashioned gum surgery is a thing of the past.

 

*         Customized Cosmetic Dentures- Teeth that look stunning and natural.  Photos of our patients with these teeth fool even dentists who attend Dr. Jivraj’s teaching lectures.

 

*         Intra-oral video and digital cameras- so you can see what we see when we look into your mouth.

 

*         FDA Approved Migraine Headache Prevention- that is 77% effective in reducing migraine headaches!

 

*         Decay Preventing Sealants that wear 100x better than Regular sealants.  Something every parent wants for their children.

 

*         Many patients say they really like the fact that they don’t get sent allover town for their services.

 

An Investment In Yourself That You Deserve

 

Dr. Jivraj’s Implant Dentistry is an investment in your looks, emotional well being and physical health. Where else can you have an investment that pays dividends 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year? Where else is your investment with you, part of you, enhancing how others see and treat you and enhancing how you feel?

 

Enriching the Quality and number of your relationships … Increasing how long you live?

 

Dr. Jivraj’s Implant Dentistry is the result of a passionate pursuit.  A tangible zeal to help people have teeth that last a lifetime and look their best in the process.

 

I’m sorry if I sound like I’m too excited. It’s just that I feel so strongly about what my team and 1 do.

 

Most People Have No Idea Of Just How Important Their Teeth Are!

 

Or worse, some people have lost all their teeth but don’t know something can be done about it. So please forgive my fervor. It is simply that I want to help people. I love being a dentist. I love performing this level of dentistry to help people.

 

I want to help people who can appreciate the magnitude and importance of a great smile and healthy teeth. If you are one, I invite you to join us.

 

This quote from the late, great Dr. Harold Wirth underscores why:

 

“The mouth in its entirety is an important and even wondrous part of our anatomy, our emotions, our life; it is the site of our very being. When an animal loses its teeth, it cannot survive unless it is domesticated; its very existence is terminated; it dies. In the human, the mouth is the means of speaking, of expressing love, happiness and joy, anger, ill temper, or sorrow. It is the primary sex contact; hence it is of initial import to our regeneration and survival by food and propagation. It deserves the greatest care it can receive at any sacrifice. ”

 

F. Harold Wirth, D.D.S.

 

 

So there is the explanation of my life’s passion for implant dentistry. Thank you for reading this report.

 

Now it is up to you to make the next move.

CALL NOW

300 ESPLANADE DRIVE SUITE 1600

OXNARD CA 93036

805-988-8985 

SAJ.JIVRAJ@GMAIL.COM

 Sincerely,

 

Sajid Jivraj, DDS

 

 

P.S. There are only a limited number of patient spots on my already busy schedule. My clinical, teaching, training and community activities schedule stays full. But we have reserved a limited number of appointments for new people who want the benefits and results of Dr. Jivraj Method Dentistry.

 

P.P.S. Even after reading this entire Report, and knowing that you need and could benefit greatly from having your dental function, health and beautiful smile fully restored, I know from experience that one of two, or both of these things are likely to be true:

 

1. You will be tempted to procrastinate…

 

I can’t blame you. In spite of my reassurances and comments from my patients in this Report, I’m sure that the prospect of coming into my office, possibly confronting problems you’ve permitted to worsen due to procrastination or fear or for other reasons, even the potential investment needed is discouraging, and it is all something you’d rather not deal with. I certainly understand. But I must emphasize that whatever dental health function or appearance problems you have now can only get worse and become much more difficult and costly to treat with each passing day, weak and month–this is a guarantee. You did the right thing by requesting this Report and getting this information. I sincerely hope you will not stop short of getting the improved health and appearance you hoped for when you requested it. I promise, delay is costly and may vary well be hazardous to your health. I’ve seen patients in the past few months that made what they thought were rational decisions during the past few years. They decided to procrastinate and put things off because of all the problems and instability in the world or because of economic uncertainty or any other variety of reasons and because of this they missed their last chance to find a solution and now they are miserable. Why am I sharing this with you? I am sharing the hard facts with you so you understand that the time to reclaim your dental health is right now. If you put it off until later, like these other patients did, it may be too late.

 

If you act now, you are likely to have many more ways to get back your dental health. I truly don’t want this to happen to you or any other patient. Please, don’t allow yourself to become a statistic I couldn’t rescue. Let’s keep your hope alive. I am certain you have worked hard for your Success in life; you DESERVE to make this investment, that can have such far-reaching, comprehensive positive effects on your life. Please call and make your appointment TODAY.

 

 

2. You have unanswered questions and concerns.

 

That’s okay, too, and perfectly understandable. While I’ve tried to cover a lot in this Report-and if you re-read it, I’m sure you’ll gain more understanding and feel more confident-I know each person’s concerns are different. When you come in, you can count on having your every question patiently and fully answered. There is absolutely no need for embarrassment or reticence. You will have your privacy respected. Every one here prides themselves on courtesy, compassion, and friendliness. And whatever your dental problems may be, I guarantee you, I have successfully treated patients with far more serious difficulties than yours. If you have gone a lengthy period of time without seeing a dentist, I guarantee I have welcomed, reassured and successfully treated people who have gone even longer periods of time without dental care. Whatever your concern, I know we can satisfy it. Please do not let a question or two left unanswered rob you of the restored, ideal dental health and youthful appearance that is rightfully yours and readily available! So call now!

805-988-8985

 

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

LOCAL PROSTHODONTIST DR JIVRAJ PROVIDES EDUCATION IN IMPLANT DENTISTRY

 

 

 

Local Prosthodontist/Dentist Dr. Saj Jivraj recently presented new concepts and techniques in Implant dentistry to an elite group of dentists across Ventura County.

The meeting, held in the Marriott Hotel Oxnard CA offers dentists to attend educational seminars on Implant dentistry so the level of care to patients can be improved. These seminars are run by Dr Jivraj and local Oral Surgeon Dr Marwood Stout.

Dr. Jivraj, whose dental practice is located in Oxnard, presented diagnostic concepts for predictable implant dentistry. “Patients are concerned about their smiles, and with the right diagnosis, dentists can provide patients at any age, with dental implant therapy. Dental Implants not only allow the patient to chew better but also contribute to them looking younger,” said Dr. Jivraj.

Prosthodontists complete three years of formal training beyond the four-year dental degree in an accredited American Dental Association prosthodontic graduate program. As dental experts in the state-of-the-art procedures and techniques, prosthodontists specialize in dental implant restorations, crowns, bridges, complete and partial dentures, as well as TMJ disorders.

In addition to his dental practice, Dr. Jivraj is an Associate Clinical Professor at the USC School of Dentistry, where he teaches graduate students about dental implants and cosmetic rehabilitations

 

For further information you can contact Dr Jivraj at

 

300 Esplanade Drive Suite 1600

Oxnard CA 93036

805-988-8985

saj.jivraj@gmail.com

Look younger and live longer with Dental Implants

 

By Dr Saj Jivraj

Dental Implants have revolutionized the way dentists can replace missing teeth. Implant therapy offers many advantages over conventional bridges and dentures and in many cases is the treatment of choice. No longer do dentists need to cut down healthy teeth for bridges to replace missing teeth. Cutting teeth down for bridges actually damages the teeth and reduces their long term survival.

The difference in chewing forces in a person with natural teeth and one who wears dentures is dramatic. In the molar region of a person with natural teeth, the average force has been measured at 150-250 pounds per square inch. Certain patients who grind or clench their teeth may exert a force of up to 1000 psi. The maximum force in denture patient is reduced to less than 50 psi. The longer an individual wears dentures, the less force they are able to generate. Individuals wearing dentures for more than 15 years may have a maximum chewing force of 5.6 psi.

As a result of this decreased force and instability of dentures, chewing efficiency is severely compromised. Many patients with dentures will avoid most hard food, some are only able to eat soft or mashed food, and some claim they eat more efficiently without their dentures. Lower intake of fruits, vegetables, and vitamin A in these individuals leads to digestive and other systemic disorders. As a result, these individuals take more drugs/supplements compared to those with natural teeth and better chewing ability.

Also, the reduced consumption of high fiber foods could induce digestive problems in denture wearing individuals with deficient chewing performance. Credible research and reports provide proof suggesting that a compromised dental function causes poor chewing and swallowing ability and digestive disorders, which in turn may favor systemic changes favoring illness, debilitation, and shortened life expectancy.

Several reports correlate individuals’ health and life spans to their dental health. These reports point to significant relationship between dental disease and cardiovascular disease, the latter being a major cause of death today. It is therefore easy to believe that restoring the dental function of these individuals to a more normal function may indeed enhance the quality and length of their lives.

 

Several studies concluded that the use of partial dentures deteriorates the health of the gums and remaining natural teeth. Individuals wearing partial dentures often exhibit loosening of the retaining natural teeth, heavier plaque retention, increased gingivitis and gum bleeding, more tooth decay, and accelerated bone loss. Dentists and patients should study all these issues of tooth and bone loss more carefully and look at other available options for a long-term solution rather than a quick fix.

Dental implants should be seriously considered as the first option at the time of tooth extraction. Dentists should discuss the benefits of implants with their patients and inform them about the consequences of not having dental implants.

A well-shaped, symmetrical face with healthy looking facial skin needs an intact and healthy underlying bone structure. This is demonstrated well in young adults with intact boney structures. The same is observed in middle aged or even old individuals who have been able to maintain their facial structure. It might be called graceful aging but it is not an accidental phenomenon or due to luck. It is directly related to the state of their oral and dental health. A 65-year-old individual who has been able to maintain all his or her teeth looks much younger than the same age individual who has lost teeth and wears dentures.

The facial changes that naturally occur in relation to the aging process can be accelerated by the loss of teeth and the resulting facial bone loss. A decrease in facial height from a collapsed vertical dimension (distance between tip of the nose and chin) causes several facial changes. The immediate and most prominent change is creation of wrinkles around the mouth. Of equal importance is the thinning of lips. Upper and lower lips loose their fullness. As the vertical dimension progressively decreases, the chin will move forward and create a prognathic facial appearance.

These conditions result in a decreased upward curvature of lips (seen more prominently in a smiling face) and dropping of the corners of the mouth, giving the patient an unhappy facial appearance when the mouth is at rest. The thinning of the lips from lost vertical dimension, underlying bone loss, and loss of tonicity of the muscles involved in facial expression is more pronounced in women. They often use one of two techniques to hide this cosmetically undesirable appearance: either no lipstick or minimum make-up, so that little attention is brought to this area of face or application of lipstick over the vermilion border to give the appearance of fuller lip. Collapse of upper lip due to underlying bone loss and loss of fullness will make the nose appear larger than if the upper lip had more support.

Even though facial muscle tone decreases as we age, this process is accelerated in patients with tooth and bone loss. This loss of tonicity causes lengthening of the lips. Since facial muscles are attached to facial bone, the bone loss severely affects these muscles and their function. The facial skin begins to sag. The combination of a prognathic chin, sagging muscles and skin, long lips, and a large looking nose makes the individual appear prematurely aged.

Since these changes occur gradually, patients are unaware that these changes are from the loss of teeth. Therefore it is the dentist’s responsibility to explain these consequences to patients before extracting teeth and providing all other options at this time. The best time to plan and do implant placement is at the time of extraction and not after. The amount of bone loss in the early months after extraction, will make implant placement much more complicated. It is strongly recommended to plan tooth extractions very carefully and seriously consider the resulting bone loss from tooth extraction and dire esthetic, functional, and psychological consequences.

ADVANTAGES OF DENTAL IMPLANTS

The use of dental implants to replaces missing teeth or as a support for dentures offers a multitude of advantages.

The primary reason to consider dental implants to replace missing teeth is the maintenance of valuable facial bone. The dental implant placed into the bone serves not only as an anchor for the new teeth or to stabilize dentures, but it also serves as one of the best preventive procedures in dentistry. The chewing forces are transmitted to the bone surrounding the dental implant that stimulate bone growth and maintain density and volume. Implants should be placed at the time of extraction to immediately stop bone loss. Delaying implant placement, after extraction, will only cause significant bone loss and eventual complications resulting in the need for bone graft. Research has concluded that most bone loss occurs in the first year following extractions.

Today, replacing a tooth with dentures or bridges is no longer the best option or even an acceptable one. Dental problems associated with these kinds of restorations are not few.

Bridges are anchored to adjacent natural teeth (abutment teeth), and in the process of making them they are drilled to almost half their size. This will obviously weaken them. Often abutment teeth become sensitive and might require root canal treatment. Bridges fail due to weakness and decay of the abutment teeth, which leads to more tooth loss. Therefore we can only consider bridges as a temporary solution for tooth loss.

Dentures are even worse. These removable restorations are bulky, uncomfortable, catch food particles, interfere with speech, are often painful, etc. Both dentures and bridges cause facial bone loss, which is the primary cause of facial collapse and premature aging.

In today’s modern dentistry, the best acceptable solution for tooth loss is dental implant. From the replacement of single missing tooth to extensive reconstruction and replacement of several or even all teeth, dental implants offer the healthiest and most intelligent solution.

Some of the advantages of dental implants include:

• Maintenance of facial bone. As previously discussed, dental implants prevent bone loss. This is due to stimulation of the jawbone by the chewing forces transmitted by inserted implants.
• Improved chewing ability. Dental implants provide a solid and stable foundation for new teeth. Patients are able to eat without worrying about moving or loose dentures.
• Improved speech and phonetics. Eliminating bulky, loose dentures, improves phonetics significantly. Dental implants feel like natural teeth and patients actually forget they have missing teeth.
• Improved psychological health. Having dental implants is like having a new set of natural teeth. With all the comfort of eating, talking, and socializing without the fear of embarrassment, the individual’s self image is tremendously enhanced.
• Improved esthetics. By preventing bone loss, often through bone repair and replacement, implant procedures significantly improve facial esthetics.
• Regained chewing awareness. Chewing forces are directly transmitted to the jawbone, which helps patient’s chewing awareness. With dentures, the roof of the mouth (palate) and all gum surfaces are covered, which prevents taste and chewing reception.
• Maintenance of muscles of chewing and facial expression. A sound, healthy bone structure is vital for intact overlying facial muscles. By preventing facial bone loss, dental implants maintain the integrity of facial muscles.
• Increased retention and stability of dentures. Loose, instable dentures can effectively be anchored to jawbone and provide stability and retention.

These are the main, but not the only, advantages of dental implants.

The goal of modern dentistry is to return patients to a level of oral health that they are accustomed to. Patients who lose teeth and use fixed or removable dentures may be unable to recover normal function, esthetics, comfort, or speech with these traditional restorations.

However, an implant restoration can return the function to near normal. An implant stimulates the bone and maintains its dimensions in a manner similar to healthy natural teeth. As a result, the facial features are not compromised by lack of support. In addition, implant supported restorations are positioned in relation to esthetics, function, and speech to mimic natural teeth. Because implant teeth are not bulky and take only as much space in the mouth as natural teeth do, facial muscles and tongue do not undergo changes.

In the past 15 years implant dentistry has evolved into a predictable treatment model for replacement of missing teeth. Advantages of implants over traditional dentures and bridges make them the best choice for this purpose. Fortunately, the awareness in the general public about dental implants and their advantages has increased significantly. This has motivated many dentists to become more knowledgeable and offer this treatment to their patients. This is very promising and will undoubtedly improve the oral health in the U.S.

 

 

About the Author

 

Dr. Saj Jivraj Completed his dental degree at the University of Manchester in England and his Advanced Prosthodontic training at the University of Southern California

He is the Former Chairman Section of Fixed Prosthodontics and Operative Dentistry at University of Southern California School of Dentistry.

Dr Jivraj has published numerous articles on Esthetic and Implant Dentistry in Peer Reviewed journals, and has presented on aspects of Implant Dentistry and Advanced Prosthodontic procedures both nationally and internationally.

He is co-author of the textbook “Treatment Planning in Implant Dentistry”, published by the British Dental Association

He currently holds a Faculty Position as an Associate Clinical Professor in the department of Graduate Prosthodontics at the USC School of Dentistry

He maintains a private practice limited to Prosthodontics and Implant Dentistry at 300 Esplanade Drive #1600 Oxnard CA

Dr. Jivraj is a member of the American College of Prosthodontists, Academy of Osseointegration, International Congress of Oral Implantologists and the Newport Harbor Academy of Dentistry.

He can be reached at saj.jivraj@gmail.com or 805-988-8985

www.anacapadental.com

 

 

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is nothing more than a metal screw that is placed into the jaw bone. It acts as an anchor for a false tooth or a set of false teeth.

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Who is a candidate for dental implants?

Anyone in reasonable health who wants to replace missing teeth. You must have enough bone in the area of the missing teeth to provide for the anchorage of the implants. Some people are missing all their teeth and most of those are excellent candidates for dental implants, but today, we use implants to replace small bridges, removable partial dentures and even missing single teeth.

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What is the success rate of dental implants?

This depends very much on where the implants are placed and what they will be called upon to do. The best case scenario is the placement of implants in the front portion of the lower jaw. Here success can be as high as 98-100%. In other areas of the mouth, success rates can drop significantly. According to figures that we have today, the success of implants in the front part of the upper jaw are anywhere from 90-95%. Success rates of implants in the back part of the upper and lower jaw can be in the 85-95% range.

What can go wrong with dental implants?

There are really not too many things that can go wrong with dental implants. They can fail to integrate into the bone and come out. They can fracture or break. There can be problems with the connection between the implant and the prosthesis. There can be an infection or an inflammatory condition in the soft tissue and sometimes in the bone as a result of the implant placement. There can be damage to the nerves in the lower jaw and there can be damage to the maxillary sinus or the nasal cavity. All of these complications are rare and usually account for less than 5% of all dental implant treatments. These complications can usually be easily corrected.

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Who should you see about dental implants?

The question is really who should you see about getting missing teeth replaced? Before implants, you went to either your general dentist or, if you wanted a specialist, to a prosthodontist. It’s the same today. If you want to replace missing teeth, talk to the people who do that job and they will be glad to discuss the use of dental implants in that process. If you decide that dental implants are for you, then your general dentist or prosthodontist can either place the implants for you or refer you to a qualified surgeon, usually either an oral surgeon or a periodontist, for that phase of the treatment.

Why have dental implants become so popular?

As our life span increases, the need for some type of permanent dental replacement system becomes very important to our overall health. Dentures and removable bridges have obvious problems: They are loose and unstable. Implants can provide people with dental replacements that are both functional and esthetic. The demand was always there, we just needed the tools to fulfill that demand.

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How long after a dental implant is placed can it be used to anchor my new teeth?

The protocol that was originally developed clearly states that we must wait three months in the lower jaw and six months in the upper jaw before we can begin to construct the new dental prosthesis that will be supported by the implants. In recent years, however, there has been a movement within the profession to sort of speed up this process. Today we believe that it is possible in selected patients to accelerate the healing time. We are even loading implants in very specific situations right away.

Does it hurt to have dental implants placed?

The actual procedure to surgically place a dental implant is done under local anesthesia and is generally not at all painful. When the anesthesia wears off about three or four hours later, you might expect some discomfort. The level of discomfort is quite different from patient to patient, but most patients do not have significant problems. Some patients do have varying degrees of pain or discomfort which may last for several days. Swelling and black & blueing may also develop.

In cases where there is prolonged pain, you should see your dentist right away. Prolonged pain is not a good sign with dental implants and although it does not always mean failure, the cause of the pain should be determined as soon as possible. If an implant is not properly integrating into the adjacent bone or if an infection develops, the implant may have to be removed.

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What happens if I have dental implants and they are rejected?

Occasionally dental implants do fail or, as some people say, they are rejected. In many instances, they can be replaced with another implant, usually of a slightly larger size. Failure rates should be about 1-2%.

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Do I have to go without my “teeth” while the implants are bonding to my jaw bone?

Once again, the original protocol called for patients to go without wearing their dentures for at least two weeks after implant placement. Over the years, this has been modified considerably and in most situations, patients leave the office wearing their teeth the day the implants are placed. Every patient and procedure is evaluated separately and there might occasionally be a recommendation that a patient go without their prosthesis for a short period of time. You may also have to be on a soft diet for a period of time after implants are placed.

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Bone Graft

Sometimes when a dental implant is placed, it is necessary to build up the bone in the area to insure success. The procedure of building up the bone is known as Bone Grafting. Bone grafting is a very common procedure in dentistry and it is used quite a bit for dental implants and in periodontal procedures around natural teeth. In order to do bone grafting, we need a source of bone to place in the site. The bone that we use can be one of three types. The best bone is bone that is taken from the patient that we are working on. This bone can be taken from other areas of the mouth or collected in our suction apparatus as we drill into the bone to prepare the sites for dental implants. Occasionally this bone is taken from areas outside the mouth, such as the hip. When bone is taken from the hip, it is usually done in the hospital by an orthopedic surgeon and transferred to the dentist doing the implant procedure in the OR.

Another very common source of bone is bone taken from cadavers. This bone is harvested under very strict supervision at several bone banks around the country and it is used in many dental and medical procedures. There has never been a case of a transmitted disease with this type of bone. It is very safe and very useful in our work to help patients. A third type of bone is a synthetic type of bone taken. This has some use in dentistry but it does not seem to be as useful as the first two types of bone.

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 Bridge or a Dental Implant

Perhaps one of the most frequently asked questions on this site is whether or not to use a fixed (”permanent”) bridge or a dental implant to replace one or two missing teeth. Suppose you are missing your lower left first molar. If a fixed bridge were to be used, your dentist would cut down the adjacent teeth (the second molar and the second bicuspid) and fit a three unit fixed bridge over those two teeth. The missing tooth would be called a pontic and it would be effectively replaced by the three unit bridge. If your dentist were to use an implant with a crown on it, he would place an implant in the site of the original first molar. He could do this immediately or at some date after the first molar was removed. There is no time limit here. The implant will take about 3 months to connect with the bone and then at that time, your dentist can construct a single crown on the implant to replace the missing first molar.

The cost of each one of these procedures varies from office to office, but a three unit fixed bridge costs about the same as an implant and a crown. The actual decision to do one over the other rests with you and your dentist. One technique is not inherently better than the other and each depends upon how you present and your dentists skills.