Dental Implants Arvada FAQ

What are dental implants?

A dental implant appears, feels, and functions identically to a natural tooth. They are the most effective tooth replacement treatment for patients missing one or more teeth. The titanium implant replaces the root of your natural tooth, fusing to the jawbone and providing a stable foundation to support a prosthetic crown.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

• Permanent
• Long-lasting with proper care
• Easy to clean and maintain
• Indistinguishable from natural teeth in look, feel, and function
• Supportive of your full bite pressure
• Autonomous to adjacent teeth

What happens during the implant placement procedure?

Your procedure begins with a consultation appointment in which Dr. Haupt takes a 3D jaw X-ray to review your oral health and individual needs. He works with you to choose the anesthetic you are most comfortable with and create a treatment plan that suits your needs. Before leaving your consultation, you schedule a time to return for your implant placement.

During your implant placement procedure, Dr. Haupt inserts the titanium implant into your jawbone. When it is in place, he attaches a temporary crown, and you schedule a follow-up appointment. You come into our office every few weeks during the healing process so that Dr. Haupt can ensure the implant and jawbone are healing correctly.

Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, it is ready for the final prosthetic crown. An abutment connects the implant to the crown. When your final crown attaches to the implant, you can freely use your new tooth without dietary restrictions.

Does it hurt to get dental implants?

No, Dr. Haupt takes care to ensure that every patient’s procedure is entirely painless. The surgical area is numb during the procedure, and you are sedated for the entire duration. Dr. Haupt will explain techniques to manage possible swelling and discomfort after your surgery during the recovery and healing period.

Is it likely that my body will reject the implant?

Absolutely not — dental implants have a 97% success rate amongst patients, and they are highly reliable. Implants are made of titanium which is biocompatible with your jawbone. During the healing process, your jawbone naturally fuses with the titanium, creating a sturdy bond.

Biocompatibility can be hindered during the healing process by placing too much biting force on your temporary crown or failing to maintain proper oral hygiene. To avoid these issues, follow all of Dr. Haupt’s instructions on caring for your oral health in between your follow-up appointments.

How do you keep dental implants clean?

You care for dental implants the same way you care for your natural teeth. Brush twice and floss once a day. And pay special attention to flossing at the base of the implant, where the crown meets your gums. 

Dental implants and prosthetic crowns never rot, decay, or get cavities, but the natural gum tissue is still vulnerable to infection. So, be sure to follow Dr. Haupt’s recommendations and care instructions. If you take care of your oral health, your implants can serve your smile well for decades to come.