Meet the Doctor

Steven E. Brock D.D.S.  

Dr. Steven Brock is a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Dentistry in Memphis. Upon graduation, he completed a GP Hospital Residency at the University of Tennessee Memorial Research Center in Knoxville. Since 1983, Dr. Brock has been in a private practice.

Dr. Brock is a fellow in the International College of Oral Implantology (ICOI) and an active member in the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID).

Since 1981, Dr. Brock has pursued extensive training in the discipline of implant dentistry. He has studied at the Branemark Clinic in Gothenburg, Sweden in both the surgical and prosthetic aspects of the treatment. He has trained for Nobel Biocare teaching other dentists the surgical and prosthetic solution of the Teeth-in-an-Hour and Beautiful Teeth Now.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.  Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone.  The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years, but on occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

Reasons for dental implants:

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.

• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.

• Restore a patient’s confident smile.

• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.

• Restore or enhance facial tissues.

• Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant.  While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself onto the bone for up to six months.  Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place.  With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor.  Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete.  After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed.  Good oral hygiene, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new implant.