When you have missing teeth, whether it’s just one, several, or all of them, it becomes not only a matter of looks, but it’s unhealthy too. Gaps where teeth used to be can accumulate more bacteria and open the door to gum disease. Bone density and volume decreases. Teeth that are next to empty spaces start to twist and shift, creating bite problems.

Dr. Hancock is very interested in helping you regain the best function possible of your teeth and gums while keeping his artist’s eye on the aesthetics too. He has several solutions, each one affected by factors such as your current state of oral health and your budget.

Up until the last decade the main way to replace missing teeth was either with a dental bridge for one to two missing teeth, a series of bridges or a partial denture for multiple missing teeth. But dental bridges have drawbacks, such as the fact that healthy teeth need to be ground down in order to anchor the bridge. And a partial denture doesn’t have the strength needed to chew many foods.

With dental implants Dr. Hancock can provide healthy, long-lasting and natural-looking and -acting new teeth, from a single tooth to all teeth missing.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jaw bone as a replacement for a missing tooth. The implant integrates with the jaw bone and is used to support a dental restoration, such as a crown, bridge or denture.

An implant acts and feels just like a healthy, natural tooth, allowing you to eat what you want with full chewing power. You take care of an implant the same way you would take care of natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing and checkups.

Single tooth replacement

In most cases, replacing a single tooth is best done using a dental implant topped with a natural-looking porcelain crown. A dental implant doesn’t require the cutting down of healthy teeth as with a bridge. Dental implants are strong and durable and can last a lifetime.

Dr. Hancock does recognize that not all patients are ready to go forward with a dental implant and does offer other solutions such as a bridge or partial denture.

Multiple teeth replacement

As with replacing a single tooth, Dr. Hancock also prefers implants to replace multiple missing teeth. This can be done using a dental implant to replace each missing tooth, or an implant-supported bridge can be used when there are three or more missing teeth in a row. Implants are the modern way to replace missing teeth. They achieve the best functionality and have a natural appearance.

For three missing teeth Dr. Hancock would use two implants with a three-tooth bridge; for four missing teeth he would use two implants and a four-tooth bridge. Five missing teeth would be supported using three implants.

Replacing all your teeth

Regular Dentures:

Dr. Hancock can create full regular dentures when all your teeth in either arch are missing or have been extracted. He pays close attention to customizing your dentures to fit the contours of your gums and palate.

Implant-supported Dentures:

A better solution for a patient needing a full arch of teeth replaced is an implant-supported denture. Two to four implants are placed in the jaw and the denture is made to snap onto the implants using a ball-and-socket type mechanism. The dentures can be easily removed for cleaning. This type of denture is very stable and comfortable, and allows you to eat the foods you want. Read more about Implant-Supported Dentures.

Full-Arch Implant-Supported Bridge:

This option is the top-of-the-line solution when all the teeth in an arch are missing. This is the next best thing to real teeth. A full bridge is supported with implants, but the bridge is permanent and not removable except by Dr. Hancock. This provides full chewing power and great aesthetics.

Complimentary Implant Consultation

We invite you to take advantage of our Complimentary Implant Consultation to find out more about dental implants and whether they are a solution for you. You may just find that it’s the answer you have been looking for.

• Consultation with Dr. Hancock
• Learn about different treatment options
• Find out if you are a candidate for dental implants
• Get all of your questions answered about dental implants

To make an appointment, call (615) 383-0132 or click here to request an appointment online.

Related to This

• Restorative Dentistry Overview
• Inlays and Onlays
• Dental Implants
• Dental Crowns
• Dental Bridges
• Dentures
• Full Mouth Reconstruction