1. "All on 4"

Teeth in a day - Not Months

Teeth-in-a-Day™ is a new dental implant surgery system that streamlines the treatment process and provides the patient with permanent teeth in record time. The system incorporates the magic of CT Scans and 3-D imaging software to accurately assess bone structure, map out the areas of best integrity, and create a permanent prosthesis prior to surgery. This revolutionary system offers a more accurate and safer positioning of dental implants and provides the patient with permanent teeth in about an hour.
Traditionally, dental implants have been associated with long periods of healing, high costs and patient discomfort. Teeth-in-an-Hour allows Balle & Associates to provide his patients with fixed, well-functioning and attractive teeth on implants in a single one-hour procedure. By using a custom template created from the primary CT Scan, the permanent teeth can be made before the implant surgery. The final teeth are inserted at the same time the implants are placed.
Teeth-in-an-Day™ is made possible through Procera 3D planning software and Nobel Biocare™ technology. It combines a unique planning program, a surgical template and the immediate load concept. Teeth-in-an-day allows the patient to leave the chair with dental implants and permanent teeth after a short one-hour, non-traumatic procedure.

• Lower Cost
• No Temporaries
• Greatly Reduced Healing Time
• No Significant Pain or Swelling
  
  "Teeth in an Hour--Instant Teeth" and "Teeth in a Day"
  by Dr. Peter Balle 
  You"ve read about "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" in national publications. Now Dr. Peter Balle is proud to bring this new dental development to Las Vegas for the general dental public"s benefit. Fewer than a dozen dentists nationwide have combined these new advancements in computer generated design and modeling, advanced dental implant design and technique, and advancements in "CAT" scan technology to provide a solution for people who have "just had it!" wearing dentures or that are tired of loose teeth in the top jaw, bottom jaw, or both. In the past, multiple surgeries over the course of 4-9 months were usually needed to obtain what can now be achieved in approximately one hour of surgery per jaw.
   
  If you suffer from the discomfort and embarrassment of dentures or are tired of having a mouth full of loose teeth and are short on time, then "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" may be the permanent dental solution you"ve been seeking. "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" can give you back your freedom to smile, laugh, eat, and a renewed zest for life. Imagine!
   
  Wbat if you aren"t wearing dentures or missing teeth and desire an "Extreme Smile Makeover." Good news, these advanced technologies make "Teeth in a Day," the one day life changing dental makeover, a reality.
   
  What makes all of these things possible is CT computerized x-rays of the jaws coupled with Virtual Reality 3-D dental implant software to plan the implant positions in the jaw and to fabricate your teeth before the actual surgery. This computer based dental implant surgery is extremely accurate, safe, and a less painful type of dental implant treatment.  The bottom line----our patients walk out with Instant Teeth!
  
  
  
  
  NEW TECHNOLOGY FOR TEETH REPLACEMENT COMES TO LAS VEGAS TEETH IN A DAY, NOT MONTHS
  
  Tooth replacement with dental implants has long been associated with extended lengths of time to allow patients to heal, pain, and time away from life or work. The latest advances in technology now allow the patient to leave the office with dental implants and teeth after a short one-hour, less traumatic procedure providing enhanced patient satisfaction with simplified dental implant treatment.
  Dr. Peter Balle is one of the first Las Vegas Practices to combine these new technologies that allow "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" to be possible. "By combining advanced 3-D virtual reality computer software with CT scans, computer assisted design and manufacturing, and newly designed dental implants make this kind of teeth replacement possible. Something never dreamt possible. The "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" patient can be back at work in a few days enjoying their new teeth and smile right away."
  The best of European technology from Belgium and Switzerland combined with these technologies stateside improve accuracy and ensure superior cosmetic results. In order to provide this type of smile reconstruction, advanced dental implant training is involved.
  For more information or to schedule a complimentary 15 minute consultation for Teeth-in-an-Hour-Instant Teeth consultation call Balle & Associates at 702 877-6608.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Examples of "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" Replacement Teeth-Note the lack of excessive bulky plastic as compared to out-dated traditional dentures.
  
  "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" technology can be used for:
  
  
  • Replacement of a Upper Denture
    
  • Replacement of a Lower Denture
    
  • Single Missing Teeth
    
  • Replacement of a Upper Partial Denture
    
  • Replacement of a Lower Partial Denture
    
  • Multiple Missing Teeth
    
  • Same Day Treatment at Tooth Extraction (Single, Multiple or Full Jaw Extractions)
     
    Each patient must be evaluated by Dr. Balle and with advanced CT x-ray technology to determine whether "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" is an ideal treatment option in their situation.
    Advantages of "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth"
    

  • No stitches (in many cases)
  • Surgery takes about 1 hour
  • Highly accurate
  • Reduced pain
  • Minimal swelling
  • Back to work quickly
  • Fewer office visits
  • Excellent cosmetics
  • Great for the upper or lower jaw (even both the same day!)

  Here's the fine print: In order for "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" to be possible, if bone grafting is required, it must be performed before surgery. Some cases are possible with complete extractions at time of surgery, but an evaluation is required to determine which patients are good candidates for this type of treatment. Patients must have adequate bone quantity and density to support the "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" procedure. Finally, any patient considering "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" will require CT x-ray scanning as part of their evaluation.
    The Science behind This Modern Dental Breakthrough
  Computer based implant surgery, computer designed and manufactured surgical guides (SurgiGuide) and simulated implant surgery computer software (SimPlant) along with CT x-ray scanning makes these advances in dental implant planning and "teeth in an hour-instant teeth" possible.
  Balle & Associates is only a handful of dentists in the U.S. that have taken these advancements in medical technology and combined them for the maximum benefit for his patients to speed up the dental implant treatment process. What it took nature 15 years to develop; Balle & Associates can now give back to his patients in about an hour of surgery.
  Here is what happens. Following receipt of the 3-dimensional computer x-ray scan of your jaws, Balle & Associates performs a computer simulated (virtual reality) implant surgery on you before ever touching your actual mouth. The information gathered is very accurate and allows the doctor to visualize the future locations for your implants and gives him the knowledge of your jaw anatomy in three dimensions. Your vital anatomical structures are identified before surgery and he can measure your bone quality and quantity directly from the computer images to make important decisions about how to best handle your care for success.
  After this, the vast amounts of planning information the doctor receives from the computerized implant surgery simulation is digitally transmitted to Belgium for fabrication of a highly accurate guide that allows for your "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth" replacement teeth to be made for delivery at your surgery. This computer manufactured guide will also be used by the doctor and his team during your actual surgery to put your implants in the positions that were planned many weeks ago via the virtual reality surgery. Finally, the doctor imports the world"s most esthetic teeth and porcelains imported from Switzerland to give you a superior cosmetic result.
  
  The sooner you schedule a consultation, the more likely you can benefit from this new technology to get back your smiling and chewing in as little time as possible. Call 702-877-6608 to schedule a complimentary 15 minute "talking visit" with Balle & Associates to have your questions answered.
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  2. "Mini Dental Implants"

  Dentures and Dentists d Clinics

  Miniaturized implants for denture stabilization are one of the fastest growing segments in the dental product industry.
  
  Mini implants are frequently used for single tooth replacements and in crown and bridge cases. A popular and most effective use of this technology is retention of the lower denture.
  
  The MDI solution represents a very efficient solution for denture wearers who have experienced extreme discomfort due to loose and ill fitting dentures. Problems associated with trapped food particles, "denture breath" and common social issues are virtually eliminated.
  
  The MDI device can be utilized to stabilize a denture usually in a couple of hours by a trained doctor.

  

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  3. Bone grafting

  What is a bone graft?

  Bone grafting is the replacement or augmentation of the bone around the teeth.
  
  Why is a bone graft needed?
  Bone grafting is performed to reverse the bone loss / destruction caused by periodontal disease, trauma, or ill fitting removable dentures. It is also used to augment bone to permit implant placement, such as augmenting bone in the sinus area for implant placement, or augmenting bone to enhance the fit and comfort of removable prostheses, or to enhance esthetics of a missing tooth site in the smile zone. When one loses a tooth, as in an extraction, the surrounding bone collapses. To preserve this bone for future implant placement or for esthetics, a bone graft is used.
  What are the types of bone graft?
  
  1. autogenous - bone taken from one area of the patient and transplanted to another area requiring such grafting
  2. allograft - either synthetic bone or bone from a bone bank (cadaver bone)
  3. xenograft - bovine /cow bone
  
  Which graft is used and when and why?
  Autogenous bone is the "gold standard" and oftentimes has the most predictable results. This is described as the best type of graft because such bone is live bone with live active cellular elements that enhance bone growth, whereas other types of grafts are devoid of any active cellular material.
  
  Allografts and Xenografts both do not require a second surgical site as does the autogenous bone. Ample amounts can be easily obtained.
  
  Barrier membranes
  In conjunction with bone grafting, membranes are often used to help stabilize the bone graft as well as displace the gum tissue from invading the healing bone graft. Gum tissue grows at a much faster rate than bone, therefore, membranes are used to prevent gum tissue from growing in and displacing the bone graft before it matures.

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  4. "The Truth about Dentures"

  "No matter how good dentures are made after natural teeth are lost, the gum and bone deteriorates from the time the dentures are inserted into the mouth -guaranteed."
  -Dr. Peter Balle

  A word of warning to the denture wearer: One of the things that is seldom shared with the denture patient is that there will always come a day when no denture can be satisfactorily made or worn due to the deteriorated condition of the jaw. When that day comes, the only way to get teeth again is with major bone grafting taken from the top of the hip in the hospital. There are roughly a half a dozen surgeons in the U.S. that have a very high success rate with hip grafts to the jaw bone. The best surgeon in the U.S. is located at the University of Detroit and therefore Balle & Associates recommends that his patients requiring this type of graft have the procedure performed. Upon adequate healing, Dr. Balle will then place the dental implants and teeth in Las Vegas.
  It is best to avoid ever reaching this point in life by having implants placed well before the day of needing a hip graft arrives.
  If you are under the age of 65 and wearing a denture Balle & Associates should perform an immediate implant evaluation because after the age of 65, no insurer or Medicare will cover this medically necessary surgery which then becomes an out of pocket expense for the patient. This alone can cause the cost to get your teeth back to double!
  
  Effects on the Jaw Bone by Wearing a Full Denture
  "A Downward Spiral to No Teeth or Hip Grafts to the Jaw"
  

  
  Natural Teeth

  
  Loss of the teeth

  
  In goes the denture

  
  Up to 40% of the jaw bone is usually lost in the first 6 months.

  
  Continual "pounding" of the jaw bone causes more jaw bone to be lost. The "oral wig" is made bigger with either a reline or a new denture as the bone disappears.

  
  The "oral wig" is again too loose now that more bone has dissolved.

  
  Once gain, the denture is made bigger to compensate for the missing bone.

  
  And, yet again the bone has continued to go away. Notice the small circle. That is where the nerve that normally runs deep inside the jaw becoming exposed and lying just beneath the gum tissue.

  
  Finally, once the nerve is exposed and the denture is relined again, the denture puts pressure onto the exposed nerve causing pain or numbnes-ouch!
  The only way to replace this bone is to remove it from the top of the hip and graft it to the jaw.

   

  Effects of Wearing a Partial Denture
  "The Roller-Coaster" Effect

  
  
  Normal -3 Back Teeth Extracted
  
  Bone Loss Under the Partial: "The Bone Roller-Coaster"
  
  The three pictures above show a side view of a human jaw. The first picture to the left shows a normal jaw with teeth in it. The second picture shows what happens to the jaw bone shortly after three extractions. The bone melts away. With time the bone loss becomes more extensive from not having teeth and the partial denture resting on the bone. And the final picture to the right shows this eventual bone loss.  In addition, the clasps on the partial denture eventually cause the front teeth, holding the denture to get loose and to be lost. In minor cases, bone grafts are taken from another spot in the jaw to move to the damaged area. In severe cases, the doctor has to go to the hip to get enough bone to replace what is missing
  
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  5. "The Truth about Dental Implants"
  
  
  How Dental Implants Replacing Several Missing Teeth
  Implant Supported Bridge
  
  
  Advantages:
  -No grinding of adjacent teeth
  -No root canals
  -No risk of cavities
  -Keeps bone from deteriorating and dissolving away
  -Better facial support
  -Looks and feels like natural teeth
  -Lowest chance of loosing more of your teeth

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  6. "Alternatives to dental implants to replace several missing teeth"

  
  Traditional Fixed Bridge
  
  A traditional bridge involves grinding down two or more teeth next to the empty spaces to support the bridge. It provides good esthetics and function and is fairly easy to for most dentists to do. However, this alternative has some very significant disadvantages that create more problems and costs later. One is the sacrificing of healthy tooth structure from the teeth next to the spaces to make room for the bridge. The damage and heat that occurs due to "grinding" of the two teeth along with the excessive pressures applied to the remaining teeth during chewing over several years almost always results in more long term tooth loss.
  
  Summary of Bridge Disadvantages
  -Excessive physical stresses on support teeth
  -Must grind/shave down support teeth
  -High risk of decay
  -High risk of root canal
  -High risk of root fracture
  -High risk of more tooth loss
  -Jaw bone erodes where tooth is missing losing face support

  Removable Partial Denture
  
  
  The Single Dental Implant

  

  Hands down, the dental implant is the single best way to replacing a missing tooth since it removes the need to grind down the two adjacent teeth next to the space as with a traditional bridge. The grinding procedure usually leads to other problems such as a root canal or an eventual fracture in the root due to the physical stresses of chewing on the remaining teeth that the bridge sits upon. Often times, these root fractures lead to more tooth loss. When bridges get decay (and they almost always do) it often results in more tooth loss. Dental implants can't get decay! The scientific data clearly shows that using a dental implant results in a least chance of more tooth loss in this situation. If any doctor doesn't give this option when a tooth is missing, it is a good idea to quickly get a second opinion before you begin a domino effect of further tooth loss.

  Tooth-Supported Fixed Bridge
  
  
  A traditional bridge involves grinding down the teeth next to the empty space to support the bridge. It provides good esthetics and function and is fairly easy to for most dentists to do. However, this alternative has some very significant disadvantages that create more problems and costs later. One is the sacrificing of healthy tooth structure from the teeth next to the space to make room for the bridge. The damage and heat that occurs due to "grinding" of the two teeth along with the excessive pressures applied to the remaining teeth during chewing over several years almost always results in more long term tooth loss.
  
  Summary of Bridge Disadvantages
  -Excessive physical stresses on support teeth
  -Must grind/shave down support teeth
  -High risk of decay
  -High risk of root canals
  -High risk of root fractures
  -High risk of more tooth loss
  -Jaw bone erodes where tooth is missing
  -Loss of facial support due to bone erosion
  
  Removable Partial Denture (Flipper)
  
  
  This is not a permanent alternative to a lost tooth. It is very unstable and loosely attached, which makes it less comfortable and ineffective for eating. The only benefit is that it is easily and quickly installed and relatively cheap. Most often this is used as "temporary" or "healing" teeth while permanent dental care is being performed.
  
  The risks from this device are:
  -Supporting teeth have more looseness and tooth loss from stress
  -High risk of decay, bone loss, and tooth loss from both problems
  -Food collects beneath the partial
  -Uncomfortable
  -Accelerates jaw bone destruction
  -Unsightly
  
  Bonded (Maryland) Bridge
  
  
  Metal wings are bonded to the adjacent teeth providing a good temporary solution while healing. This procedure has a very poor long term success rate and will not work in the back chewing areas of the mouth.

  This partial denture alternative is often perceived as uncomfortable and complicated to use. Function can not be compared to that the implant teeth replacement. This denture is made of plastic and metal, which is often unsightly and embarrassing.
  
  Summary of Disadvantages for Partial Denture
  -Stress placed on the supporting teeth lead to tooth mobility and tooth loss
  -High risk for decay, root canals and bone loss around the teeth that support the partial denture
  -Food collects underneath the partial denture
  -Uncomfortable, unsightly, and embarrassing
  -Destroys healthy jaw bone
  

  Losing a tooth, particularly a front tooth, is a traumatic experience. It alters your ability to chew and how you feel about yourself, your confidence, your self-esteem. It can even alter your lifestyle and affect us socially and professionally.
  The common questions are: What can you do about it? What are your options? What if I don't do anything?
  -Dental implants are a proven solution for people in generally good health who have lost one or more teeth due to gum disease, bad luck, accidents, or other reasons.
  -Dental Implants are one of the most predictable and conservative ways of replacing missing teeth with the best long term success. They are the most successful long term of any functional medical implant.
  -Implants are an artificial replacement for missing tooth roots that are placed into the jaw bone and are used to support new teeth/crowns.
  -Dental Implants have the look, feel and function of natural teeth and can last a lifetime if they are properly cared for.

  Dental implants are available in several different forms. The choice of which is based on a number of different factors based on patient needs.

  • The most common type of implant mimics the root of a tooth.

  
  
  The implants are placed under the gum and into the bone at a surgical appointment in the dental office with local anesthesia and usually a form of sedation. Healing times vary but typically range from 6 weeks to 6 months. Advancements in technology have made it possible where in many situations the teeth can be placed on the dental implants immediately allowing the patient to leave the surgery with teeth in place. The implants are not healed of course and special precautions during healing must be followed but these new technologies cut considerable time off of treatment as compared to even just a few years ago.
  
  The most recent advancement is to use pre-surgical 3-D simulations with high tech computer software and x-ray analysis to plan the teeth, the actual surgery, and the implant locations. This combination allows for the advanced procedure "Teeth in an Hour-Instant Teeth." After healing, the final teeth are attached to the implants in various ways based on the patient’s desires and dental needs. The total process generally takes from 4 weeks to nine months to complete. In very complex cases which are fortunately rare, there are only a handful of dentists like Balle & Associates that can provide most treatment from start to finish. These cases can take a year or more to complete.
  The implant is made of a biocompatible material called titanium, which can not decay and does not need root canal therapy.
  
  One great advantage of implants is that they stimulate and preserve the jaw bone and prevent it from eroding over time causing facial changes related to tooth loss. Not only are implants a "third set of teeth" but they keep your bone structure healthy. Just like your muscles must be exercised to stay strong, your bone must be exercised by chewing pressures through the teeth or implants for the bone to stay strong and not dissolve away. If it has dissolved away, bone grafting is often required. This complicates treatment and increases cost so the sooner the implant treatment is performed after tooth loss the better off you will be.

  So, what is a dental implant?
  Dental implants are titanium posts that are similar in shape and act as artificial tooth roots. These are carefully placed in the jawbone and allowed to heal. During the healing, your bone grows up to the implant locking it into place. There are many brands of implants on the market. Balle & Associates scientifically evaluates the research to determine the best implant choice for your long term success and only uses implants that meet these criteria.
  
  Sometimes the crown or teeth are put onto the implants at the time of surgery. Other times, this is not done until after a period of healing and then the crown or teeth are made to fit on top of the implant(s) to replace a missing tooth or teeth with a "brand-new" tooth or teeth.
  In some cases you can function on your new teeth immediately and in many other cases, you can be functioning on your "new" tooth in as little as 6 weeks!
  
  What are the benefits of dental implants?
  
  They look and feel just like your own teeth. Dental implants restore your confidence to talk, laugh, and chew with comfort and without worries. You can kiss those dentures or partials and gooey adhesive goodbye. 
  
  Implants preserve your facial structure. Implants prevent the face from the collapse that occurs under conventional bridges, dentures, and removable partial dentures. In patients who have lost all of their teeth, the lower one-third of the face is dramatically collapses due to these changes if implants have not been used. Implants form a strong bond to the surrounding bone to provide support and anchorage for biting and chewing as well as stimulation for the bone to hold it in place.
  
  Implant-supported crowns and bridges do not require neighboring teeth for support. When teeth are replaced using traditional tooth-supported bridges, the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are ground down so that the bridge can be cemented onto them. This (often times healthy) tooth structure can never be replaced. Removable partial dentures are even worse using destructive clasps which grab a hold of the adjacent teeth. As the partial rocks back and forth, it can loosen the teeth it depends on for anchorage, causing them to be lost. This device was a breakthrough when it was invented over a hundred years ago but now serves as nothing more than a dental extraction device for those who have unfortunately been wearing one.
  Implants replace the entire tooth and the missing root so it is a free-standing restoration. This leaves more of your natural teeth untouched and free of a restoration which over time saves your natural teeth. The science shows that the lowest risk to you of losing another tooth is provided if an implant replaces a missing tooth versus any other dental treatment method.
  Want to stay out of the nursing home? Get getter health and nutrition because you can eat what you want. Patients are either knowingly or unknowingly unable to eat certain foods, such as fruits and vegetables, which compromises their nutrition. This can be such a gradual process of things being subliminally eliminated from the diet that only after many years does a patient have a "light bulb" go off and realize all of the healthy foods that have disappeared from their diet. With dental implants, it is much easier to bite into and chew your favorite foods and to eat for health. Denture wearers are usually stuck eating sugary high carbohydrate foods just because that is what they can chew. It is no wonder that denture wearers have more general body diseases that are related to these nutritional problems, consume more drugs to control these diseases, and wind up in the nursing home in higher numbers than other members of society due to the long term whole body effects of poor nutrition and increased severity of medical problems. To add injury to unnecessary insult, the care giving staff at many of these facilities does not realize the extent of the issue and has very little empathy because of this ignorance. Finally, for many of these people, their dentures (even if they could wear them) wind up getting lost meaning that the last memories they leave their families is of a favorite grand parent missing their teeth at the end of life.
  Easy to clean. An implant supported crown can be cleaned like your other natural teeth, i.e.brushing, waterpik, sonicare, flossing. Cleaning under a bridge, however, requires the use of floss threaders for proper cleaning, while a partial must be taken out several times a day and scrubbed clean. Both of the alternatives typically mean tooth decay starts again leading to more dental drilling, root canals, and tooth loss...a never ending domino effect till all of the teeth are lost.
  Enjoy food again. An upper denture covers the palate and effectively divorces you from half of the taste of your food. Over time the plastic also becomes saturated with oral fluids that interfere with the taste of your food. Essentially you are sucking on an old dirty piece of plastic while you eat your food. No wonder patients complain about odd tastes! With implant supported teeth, it is not necessary to cover the roof of the mouth. This frees you to enjoy improved taste of all of your favorite foods.
  
  What if I have already lost all of my teeth and wear dentures?
  If you are a denture wearer and are having problems keeping your dentures in place or you cannot enjoy your favorite foods, then implants can make a life changing difference for you. Depending on your individual case, anywhere from 3 to 8 implants can be placed in each jaw to anchor new teeth in place. This greatly reduces the bulk of the teeth and can even eliminate the denture completely. No more wobbling or clicking; no more messy pastes and glues. You will be free to enjoy all of your favorite foods with confidence and comfort.
  
  A word of warning to the denture wearer: One of the things that is seldom shared with the denture patient is that there will always come a day when no denture can be satisfactorily made or worn due to the deteriorated condition of the jaw. When that day comes, the only way to get teeth again is with major bone grafting taken from the top of the hip in the hospital. There are roughly a half a dozen surgeons in the U.S. that have a very high success rate with hip grafts to the jaw bone. The best surgeon in the U.S. is located at the University of Detroit and therefore Dr. Balle recommends that his patients requiring this type of graft have the procedure performed. Upon adequate healing, Dr. Balle will then place the dental implants and teeth in Las Vegas.
  It is best to avoid ever reaching this point in life by having implants placed well before the day of needing a hip graft arrives.
  If you are under the age of 65 and wearing a denture Balle & Associates should perform an immediate implant evaluation because after the age of 65, no insurer or Medicare will cover this medically necessary surgery which then becomes an out of pocket expense for the patient. This alone can cause the cost to get your teeth back to double!
  
  How long do implants last?
  Published clinical research shows that implant supported restorations have been successful for over 30 years with success rates now reaching over 95%. These cases were carefully followed from the very beginning and are likely to remain successful for the lifetime of these patients.
  
  Dental implants are designed to be permanent but there are many factors that contribute to their longevity. Dr. Balle plans your case based on your age at the time of treatment, family history of longevity, and individual patient needs. In addition, implant technology is constantly changing and improving. Dr Balle is constantly attending international meetings looking for what is going to provide the most predicable result over the course of his patients' lifetimes.
  Home care and regular visits to the dentist or specialist are probably the most critical aspects of making your implants last. Dr. Balle and his expert implant hygienist closely monitor the health of your implants and make personalize the types of care that ensure the long term health of your implants and new teeth.
  The things that can affect the long term wear on your implants and teeth are smoking, grinding/clenching of the teeth, or too much pressure on the implants. Careful follow-up and observation are also necessary to minimize these risks to the patient with these issues.
  Research shows that the average traditional dental bridge lasts from 7-10 years and that partials and dentures last an average of 5 years. The part the research doesn't talk about that much is that when these procedures fail they typically cause worsening dental problems and tooth loss.
  
  In what situation then, if any, would a dentist recommend a tooth supported bridge?
  Until recently, most dentists considered conventional bridges the treatment of choice for replacing missing or lost teeth. While a close majority no longer considers the traditional destructive bridge the ideal tooth replacement, slightly less than half of the profession (tens of thousands of dentists) still do not give implant options as part of their treatment plans. Dr. Balle recommends that you seek a second opinion immediately if dental implants were not discussed as part of your care before proceeding to bridges, dentures, or partial dentures.
  
  More Advantages of Dental Implants
  Dental implants allow the replacement of missing teeth without destructive grinding on healthy teeth to make bridges. Traditional dental procedures are still indicated today. However, with dental implants, some of those procedures are outdated and contraindicated. Dental professionals advocate the preservation of natural teeth and tooth structure. Dental implants fit into this concept since the need for the removal of healthy tooth structure (enamel) has been eliminated by his method.
  Dentists all agree that a tooth begins a downward spiral after being touched by a dental drill for the first time. Dr. Balle has been using implants and helping raise the "standard of care" for tooth replacement for over twelve years.
  
  Dental implants gives three more benefits rarely discussed:
  
  1) Dental implants strengthen the whole mouth. By adding a dental implant where a tooth is missing, we are replacing the whole tooth that is missing. This actually increases the life expectancy of surrounding teeth. In ways, the implant is more solid than the tooth it is replacing. Bridges and partial dentures universally weaken the dentition by forcing other teeth to carry the burden of the missing ones. This is akin to removing half of the supports from under a bridge and still expecting it to carry the same rush hour traffic. It isn't hard to imagine why that won’t work for very long before a catastrophe develops.
  2) Dental implants save the jaw bone from being lost when a tooth is removed. Without the implant the bone slowly melt away because there are no physical stresses put on the bone to keep it dense and solid.
  3) Dental implants do not decay. Most reason a crown or a bridge fails is because of decay at the margin where the crown meets the natural tooth. Titanium implants cannot decay.
  
  Here are comparisons between implant dentistry with traditional forms of dentistry.
  Comparison for One Missing Tooth
  When a person is missing one tooth there are two options for replacement, a single dental implant or a bridge.

  	Implant	Bridge
  How much?	Same	Same
  How long?	1 day to 9 months	2-5 weeks
  Destroys Healthy Tooth	No	Yes
  Lifetime	Up to 30+ years	5-15 years
  Effect on Other Teeth	Strengthens	Weakens
  Risk of decay, root canals and More tooth loss	None	High

  
  

  Several Missing Teeth
  
  Partial dentures (RPD) have been used to replace missing teeth for over a hundred years. Just by looking at that one phrase, you can immediately understand why it is an outdated treatment option because it must be "removed" by the patient several times per day to clean, "partial" because it is a scaled down version of a denture that replaces fewer teeth, and dental-medical technology has progressed substantially from where it started a hundred years ago. If it is used long enough, many patients wearing a "partial" denture can look forward to graduating from their "partial" to a "complete" denture due to the disastrous side effects of the partial on the remaining natural teeth.
  
  Comparison for Several missing teeth
  
  

  	Implant bridge	Partial Denture
  Cost	More than a partial in the short term but less over the long term	Less than implants in the short term but more over the longer term
  Treatment time	1 hour to 9 months	4-12 weeks
  Destroy healthy tooth structure	No	Yes
  Lifetime	Up to 30+ years	5-15 years
  Effects on whole mouth	Strengthens	Greatly Weakens
  Risks for future decay	None	Very high
  Risk for future tooth loss	Very low	Very likely
  Ease of cleaning	Like natural teeth, minimal food trapping	Simple (outside mouth), always traps food
  Comfort	Like natural teeth	Poor
  Speech change	None	Initially poor but can improve with time
  Effects taste and sensation of food due to covering the palate	No	Yes
  Harms bone	No	Yes, Greatly

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  7. "Where do I start?"
  You can begin by making a complimentary 15 minute talking consultation with Dr. Balle and his expert team to find out how dental implants can help with your situation. To schedule a consultation call us at 702-877-6608.
  Dental implants feel so natural and look so good, you just may forget you ever lost a tooth!

  Loss of a Single Tooth
  Even after the loss of one teeth, the jaw bone irreversibly changes if an implant does not replace the tooth.

  
  
  
  
  
  
  Without chewing pressure to stimulate the bone it begins to dissolve away immediately after extraction and continues forever unless an implant is placed. If left long enough, bone grafting is necessary before an implant can be used. The last picture above shows when the bone loss has reached the severe state.

  Loss of an Entire Jaw of Teeth
  Below a healthy jaw is compared to one where all of the teeth have been removed and deterioration of the jaw occurs. The deterioration is described beneath the very last picture in the series

  
  
  
  
  As the bone shrinks, vital structures (such as the nerve) become exposed. The denture then pushes on this nerve making the denture even more painful to wear.

  Facial Cosmetic Problems after Tooth Loss
  The deterioration of the jaw bones affects the appearance of how the face "drapes" over the bone.  This makes you look far older then your natural age and adds more non-age related wrinkles then Mother Nature intended for you.
  
  Facial Shrinkage
  

  
  
  
  
  Facial sagging, premature ageing, and loss of function are the results of the shrinkage in the upper and lower jaw bones.
  
  Tooth Drifting and Destruction to the Remaining Teeth
  
  
  
  When all teeth are present and touching throughout the mouth the teeth support each other much like the bricks in a roman archway.
  
  
  
  When teeth are missing, the opposite teeth have no “counter acting force” and will erupt upward into the mouth.
  
  
  
  When no back teeth are touching the stress is now placed on the front teeth, this ‘overloads’ them and forces them to move forward and outward.
  
  
  
  When back molars are missing the damage is even more serious.
  
  
  
  The back chewing teeth begin to erupt down into the empty spaces where the lower molar teeth are missing.
  
  
  
  The back chewing teeth drop even further down into the lower missing teeth spaces.
  
  
  
  The chewing forces have shifted to the front teeth and due to overloaded stress the front teeth begin to flare and fan apart creating spaces.
  
  
  
  The fanning and spaces get worse over time.
  
  
  
  This fanning eventually leads to looseness and gum disease and the loss of the front teeth.
  
  
  
  This example is an example of the “fanning out” and opening of front spaces due to the missing back teeth.  These teeth are no longer savable.
  
  
  
  When two molars are missing, the upper teeth erupt down
  
  
  
  The upper teeth over erupting downward.
  
  
  
  This shows severe over eruption of an upper molar with most of this tooth’s roots now being out of the bone structure.  The tooth will become loose and fall out during chewing and usually at an inconvenient time.

  
  
  Even a single missing teeth can lead to drift (this is just like taking a brick out of an arch way and seeing the arch collapse).   That one missing tooth can set you up for a “domino effect” of losing teeth for the rest of your life.
  
  
  
  The next molar beings to drift forward.
  
  
  
  Gum disease due to the movement and misalignment of the teeth can cause more tooth loss and decay.

  Sinus Expansion Destroying Bone When Upper Teeth are Missing
  
  
  
  When the upper teeth are present the sinus stays in its proper position.
  
  
  
  Missing upper teeth.
  
  
  
  One the teeth are missing, the sinus begins to expand and destroy bone from the “inside out.”
  
  
  
  Teeth in the bottom jaw erupt and traumatize the upper gum tissue.  If a partial denture is being worn it causes bone damage from the other side of the sinus doubling the deterioration.

  
  
  If the sinus is looked at internally (in cross-section), one can see that the walls become paper thin in all directions,
  
  
  
  
  In order to restore the missing bone structure, a predictable procedure called “sinus lifting” is done to regrown the damaged and missing bone.  This allows implants to be used in these areas.

  Headaches from Missing Teeth
  
  
  
  

  Without the support of back chewing teeth, as the teeth randomly drift, unusual dental bites develop that cause excessive stress and damage to the joints (TMJ) that connect the two jaw bones with pain and headaches being a common side effect.
  
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  8. "Are Dr. Balle’s Dental Implants for Me?"
  
  If you have  missing  teeth, failing  teeth or  dentures  that just don’t work, the answer could be a resounding "YES".
  
  If you are tired of social embarrassment, not getting noticed by that special someone or looking older than you are, the answer could be a resounding "YES".
  
  If you want to rekindle romance, chew comfortably and look 10 years younger, the answer could be a resounding "YES".
  
  If you want to have a bright, white, healthy smile, preserve your existing teeth and live a longer, healthier, happier life the answer could be a resounding "YES".
  
  The Art and Science of Dr. Balle’s Dental Implants
  Be sure to read to the end of this section to get details on a free
  dental implant report and a special offer for new patients
  
  Here’s How It Works
  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 in to 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, end embarrassment, and give real self-confidence to patients who need them. They are a real breakthrough.
  
  The steps of the implant procedure itself are quite simple.
  1. If there is a damaged tooth, it must be painlessly removed.
  
  2. The actual “implant”, a small grooved or 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 makes this a comfortable process.
  
  3. Your body immediately begins to “bond” either kind of titanium post into place with bone or tissue. This is a very thorough process and may take from three 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 world’s 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 which 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 come to you.

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  9. Am I a dental implant candidate?
  You bet. Dental implants are the perfect option for people missing one, two, or more teeth.
  You may also be a candidate for dental implants if:

  • You have problems with existing crowns or bridges.
  • You have loose dentures.

  What are the benefits of dental implant treatment?
  First of all, you will be able to smile. A big, healthy, happy smile. And you will have a lot to smile about, too. Dental implants allow you to speak, eat, sing, kiss - in other words, do everything you want - with total self assurance.
  United States denture wearers spend over $150 million a year on adhesives in the futile effort to hold their dentures in place. With implants, you will not have to worry about loose dentures, an inconsistent fit, or other embarrassments such as unpleasant taste, bad breath, or poor appearance.
  
  Besides my mental health, do implants have other effects on my health, that differ from the overall health care provided by other treatments for tooth loss?
  In addition to improving your self-esteem, dental implants will also make a big difference in your overall physical health and appearance.
  As a result of losing one or more teeth, you inevitably lose mass in your jaw. This affects the overall skeletal structure of your face which not only changes your profile, but also may result in thin lips, drooping muscles, jowls or witch's chin. Spreading bone loss in the jaw affects the gums and ridges in your mouth, as well as the muscles and nerves in and around the mouth. These conditions, which are the inevitable consequence of tooth loss, are associated with a host of anatomic and clinical problems, ranging from increased tongue size, to looseness of remaining teeth, to loss of sensation, to severely painful conditions. These conditions may only be avoided through use of dental implants, because implants may halt and even reverse the bone loss that results from losing teeth.

  How do dental implants prevent bone loss?
  Bone needs stimulation to maintain its form and density. That is why the astronauts lose bone mass while they are in space - their bones lack the stimulation that results from our everyday resistance to gravity. The bone in your jaw is constantly reinforced by the force applied by your teeth.

  • The teeth transmit force to surrounding bone, so when you lose a tooth, the lack of stimulation results in bone loss or "resorption".
  • Dental implants are inserted into the jawbone in place of missing teeth. Then prosthetic restorations, like porcelains, bridge-work, or dentures are attached to a post or abutment placed inside the implant. So when you chew, the implant acts like the root of a tooth - it transmits force to the jaw and stimulates the bone.
  • It is as if implants "trick" the bone into thinking there is still a tooth present. By transmitting the natural forces of chewing to the jaw, implants increase bone density. Dental implants have been proven not only to stop bone loss, but in some cases actually to reverse bone loss and restore the health of the jaw.
  • Another health advantage that implants provide over conventional bridgework is that implants prevent the necessity of having other teeth cut down, in order to build a bridge or crown, which is necessary in certain clinical situations.
    

    Can I still eat my favorite foods with implants?
    Yes. Implants are remarkably strong, and remember - they stay put, unlike removable dentures. So you can eat and enjoy whatever you wish. Everything from apples to deep-fried anything. Want the details?

    • The components of the implant system are designed for strength. For example, the components of the Implant System are manufactured from a biocompatible titanium alloy, which offers a yield strength 65 percent higher than the strongest grade of commercially pure titanium.
    • The maximum bite force of a traditional denture ranges from 5 to 50 pounds. Almost one-third of denture wearers are able to eat only soft or mashed foods, and 50 percent avoid many foods. 17 percent claim that they chew more effectively without dentures!
    • By contrast, patients with implant-supported restorations may increase their bite force by 85 percent within two months of completing treatment, and by 300 percent after three years. Implant-supported dentures and bridges function similarly to natural teeth.
    • In addition, dental implants do not have problems with caries (decay), root caries, or hot/cold sensitivity. When you have a dental implant, you can floss and brush as you do with your own teeth.

    Do implant procedures cause much pain?
    
    Relax. In most cases these procedures produce very little, if any, discomfort. In fact, many patients do not have to use any pain pills. Your decision to use implants will help you to avoid much pain and discomfort in the long term. Besides, given the overall health care benefits, you should not deny yourself proper treatment out of fear of pain. As with any medical or dental procedure, your attending doctor, the dentist, is equipped to provide you with appropriate treatment, including any pain medicines you need.
    
    What if I have further questions?

    We expect you will. The more you learn about dental implants, the more questions you may have. We are committed to constantly extending our knowledge and improving the benefits of implant procedures and we are also willing to share our knowledge with you.
    
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    10. What’s Different about Balle & Associates’ Implant
    Dentistry? What Can It Do For You?
    
    A lot. Experience dentistry in a way you’ve never experienced it before. Competence you can count on. 12+ years of providing dental implants. Successful treatment. Your satisfaction.
    If Dentistry Has Been Difficult for you, The Dread Is Gone!
    It’s over! You Can Relax!
    Really you can, I know, it can be hard for you if you have had a nightmare of an experience. But 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 Balle & Associates, 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.
    
    “I don’t remember a thing from my surgery.  Thanks to Dr. Balle, my teeth don’t fall out in the swimming pool anymore!”
    Patti---Sedation, Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry Patient
    
    The commitment to your comfort starts with a unique office design created to produce a noise reducing, quiet environment.
    The dental chairs themselves feature articulating head rest and neck pillows that comfortably molds to your body, making it easier to relax.
    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 Are “Armed To The Teeth” With Technology and Techniques To Create a Better Dental Experience
    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 chairside 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.
    
    “I used to be so afraid I couldn’t even walk into a dental office.  Not anymore thanks to Dr. Balle and his great team!” 
    Linda----Sedation and Implant Dentistry Patient
    
    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. This 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”.
    
    “At Dr. Balle & Associates’ office, I had many questions and all were answered completely and to my satisfaction.  The surgery was scheduled and after years of avoidance, I was actually looking forward to starting the process.  I was given medication to take both before and after surgery so I felt ready to deal with the pain.  Immediately after arriving home, I took the pain medication as prescribed and then proceeded to sleep for several hours.  Upon waking there was no pain and I did not need any additional medication.  I immediately ran to the mirror and was completely surprised.  The teeth looked great and I was ready to face the world with a smile.”
    John---Sedation, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry Patient
    
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    11. Success, Successful Experience, Successful Results
    
    Here’s Proof
    Here are the results based on a study of 350 implant patients like you following their treatment.
    
    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
    
    98% said it was worth the investment.
    
    98% said they would choose treatment again knowing what they know now after treatment.
    What can you think of that 98% of folks agree is a great thing? Not much!
    
    “I was always surprised at how quick the visits went by even though when I woke up I realized that I had been in the office for a couple of hours.  My lower teeth are rock solid.  I would never go back to a denture!” 
    Steve-Sedation and Implant Dentistry Patient
    
    Competence You 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 knowledge, procedures, instrumentation and equipment.
    During the process, you and Dr. Balle may have many options. You can rest assured that Balle & Associates knows all of these – and can make them clear to you when they come up.
    For years, Dr. Balle’s patients have referred friends to him for his expertise, friendly communication, and ability to get results.
    Dr. Balle is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and holds membership and holds Fellowships in the Academy of General Dentistry, International College of Dentists, and American College of Dentists.
    He teaches at the University of Nevada, has taught at the University of Nevada, Reno General Practice Hospital Residency Dental Program. He has been bestowed Mentor recognition at the world renowned Kois Center advanced Dental Learning Center in Seattle, WA.
    He is one of the few dentists in the state that perform both the surgical placement and reconstructive phases of implants (placing the teeth themselves). Thus, in many cases you do not have to see two or more doctors in two different places to get your implant dentistry done. He has been doing implants for 12 years plus.
    His commitment to “doing it right” and the ability to “handle just about anything” has won him the admiration of patients, other doctors, and even the implant technicians who see hundreds of different doctor’s laboratory work!
    
    Located on the premises is an experienced implant dental technician who works hand in hand with Dr. Balle.
    
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    12. Choices for Tooth Replacement for the Entire Jaw of Teeth
    
    Say “Goodbye!” to Dentures
    Non-Removable Implant Teeth
         
    Upper Implant Teeth Lower Implant Teeth
    
    This type of implant teeth is the best option to completely eliminate dentures, resulting in a non-removable implant supported teeth that stay in the mouth just like your natural ones did.  They are attached to the implants with high-strength dental cement.

    If screws are used to attach implant teeth to implants, the screws have very high rates of loosening causing dentist and patient frustration.  Therefore for any implant procedure; the best way to attach the teeth to the implants is with high-strength dental cements.

    The obvious benefit is that these teeth are non-removable and have a solid “feel” that is the most natural and "teeth-like" for chewing.  In addition, this type of replacement teeth is the most streamlined in size of any implant tooth replacement option.  They are easily cleaned and restores facial support.  They require under the best circumstances five implants and more implants in less favorable situations.  This type of replacement tooth also prevents the further loss of jaw bone.

    Removable Implant Supported Teeth
    This option provides another way to stabilize or completely eliminate a denture.  While fewer implants can be used for this type of teeth (3 or 4 implants when only stabilizing), there is a higher risk for replacement of one or more implants over the years due to fewer implants handling the same chewing stresses.

    The benefits this type of implant supported teeth is that they eliminate jaw bone loss, loose dentures, sore spots from dentures, food under dentures and embarrassing denture slippage. This option also restores facial support.  In addition, the biting force is much greater than dentures resulting in a more natural bite

    
    

    
    
    

    This example is how a custom bar and implants can be used to stabilize a denture resulting in very solid feeling to the implant supported teeth.  The only difference between this type of implant supported teeth and the one above is that the teeth are still removable and they require more bulk for strength.  The teeth are retained by the design of the supporting bar and with attachments inside the teeth.  Five implants or more are required for this type of treatment which also allows for fixed implant supported teeth later should you choose to ‘upgrade’ your implant teeth.  There is also less bulk than a traditional upper denture making for more tongue room and improved food enjoyment since the palate is no longer covered. 
    
    
    
    This is an example of how two implant attachments can make a denture stable for chewing and to reduce sore spots.  This option is a good one compared to no implants at all and can still greatly reduce bulk as compared to an upper denture.  The main disadvantages are that the teeth are removable and the attachments require replacing every 1 to 5 years at minimal cost.
    
    “Mini” Dental Implants
    
    
    
    Mini dental implants provide a way to stabilize a denture with the least cost.  While this can provide a long term solution, the stress placed on this type of implant has more implant failures.  The denture is still bulky but is more stable and doesn’t “jump up” quite so much thanks to the silicone ‘o’ rings inside of the denture.  These implants help prevent bone loss and are easy to clean.  It is possible to remove mini implants and to replace them with regular implants to experience the greater benefits of the other types of implant supported teeth although this does require a more complicated surgery and more expense later in order to do so
    
    Complete Dentures
    
    
    
    While providing a short term cost savings, dentures are far more costly over the long term because of the complexity in correcting the bone destruction to the jaws caused by the denture.  If dentures are worn long enough, the jaw bone erodes to the point where no denture can be satisfactorily worn and jaw bone fracture is common.  Once the jaw has eroded to this condition, the only solution is to take a bone graft from the hip and place it into the jaw to allow for tooth replacement.  Without doing so the patient can plan on having no replacement teeth for many years in there "golden years" of life.
    
    “I don’t remember a thing from my surgery.  Thanks to Dr. Balle, my teeth don’t fall out in the swimming pool anymore!”
    Patti---Sedation, Implant and Cosmetic Dentistry Patient
    
    “I used to be so afraid I couldn’t even walk into a dental office.  Not anymore thanks to Dr. Balle and his great team!” 
    Linda----Sedation and Implant Dentistry Patient
    
    “At Dr. Balle & Associates’ office, I had many questions and all were answered completely and to my satisfaction.  The surgery was scheduled and after years of avoidance, I was actually looking forward to starting the process.  I was given medication to take both before and after surgery so I felt ready to deal with the pain.  Immediately after arriving home, I took the pain medication as prescribed and then proceeded to sleep for several hours.  Upon waking there was no pain and I did not need any additional medication.  I immediately ran to the mirror and was completely surprised.  The teeth looked great and I was ready to face the world with a smile.”
    John---Sedation, Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry Patient
    
    “I was always surprised at how quick the visits went by even though when I woke up I realized that I had been in the office for a couple of hours.  My lower teeth are rock solid.  I would never go back to a denture!” 
    Steve-Sedation and Implant Dentistry Patient
    
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