A missing tooth does more damage over time than most people realize. The jawbone beneath the gap shrinks as it loses stimulation, neighboring teeth drift toward the space, and bite mechanics shift in ways that accelerate wear on everything that remains. For Huntington Beach residents who have put off addressing tooth loss, dental implants offer the only solution that works at the root level — integrating directly with the jawbone to restore function and halt the structural changes that bridges and dentures cannot prevent.
At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, evaluates implant candidates using a thorough assessment of bone density, gum health, and overall oral condition before recommending any surgical approach. Her biomimetic, conservative philosophy extends into implant planning: the right candidate gets an implant, and patients who need preparatory work are told clearly what steps come first and why. Newport Beach Dental Center is accessible from Huntington Beach via the 405 Freeway or Pacific Coast Highway, and welcomes new implant patients from throughout Orange County. Learn more about our full range of dental services for Huntington Beach patients.
A dental implant system has three components: a titanium post placed surgically into the jawbone, an abutment that connects the post to the visible restoration, and a custom crown matched to the color, shape, and bite of your surrounding teeth. The titanium post fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration — typically over three to six months — creating a stable foundation that functions like a natural tooth root. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, dental implants have a long-term success rate of approximately 98% with proper care.
Unlike a bridge, which requires reducing adjacent healthy teeth, an implant stands independently. Unlike a denture, it does not shift during eating or speaking. For most patients who qualify, implants are the most durable and functionally complete long-term solution available.
Most adults in good general health with sufficient bone density are candidates for dental implants. Factors that affect candidacy include:
Dr. Sharbash will review your full medical and dental history, take necessary imaging, and give you a clear picture of your candidacy and timeline during your initial consultation. Patients who are not immediately ready for implants are told exactly what preparatory steps are needed and why.
The implant process typically unfolds over several months, with the timeline varying by case. A standard single-tooth implant involves a surgical placement visit, a healing period for osseointegration, an abutment placement, and a final crown delivery. Patients who need bone grafting or extraction before placement will have additional steps. The office provides clear written treatment plans with timelines and costs before any work begins — no surprises.
Achieve your dream smile with cosmetic dentistry and flexible financing that makes transformation affordable.
Don’t let dental anxiety prevent you from getting the care you need. Schedule a sedation dentistry consultation with Dr. Sharbash today.
