A missing tooth changes more than your smile. Over time, the jawbone beneath the gap shrinks as it loses the stimulation that kept it dense, neighboring teeth drift toward the space, and bite mechanics shift in ways that accelerate wear on remaining teeth. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that addresses bone loss at the root level — integrating directly with the jawbone to restore function and prevent the long-term structural changes that bridges and dentures cannot stop.
For Laguna Beach residents, Newport Beach Dental Center is a direct drive up Pacific Coast Highway. 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 for an implant gets an implant, and patients who need preparatory work are told clearly what steps come first and why. Newport Beach Dental Center welcomes new implant patients from Laguna Beach and throughout Orange County. Learn more about our full range of dental services for Laguna 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 to anchor the restoration, 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.
Achieve your dream smile with cosmetic dentistry and flexible financing that makes transformation affordable.
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 of a failing tooth before placement will have additional steps. The office provides clear written treatment plans with timelines and costs before any work begins.
With proper care — regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings — dental implants can last decades and in many cases a lifetime. The crown portion may eventually need replacement after 15 to 20 years of wear, but the implant post itself is designed to be permanent. Dr. Sharbash’s biomimetic approach to the restorative components ensures the crown is matched precisely to your bite, reducing the uneven wear that shortens crown lifespan.
For Laguna Beach patients exploring full mouth reconstruction involving multiple implants, visit our restorative dentistry in Laguna Beach page. For cosmetic work to complement your implants, see cosmetic dentistry in Laguna Beach. To schedule a consultation, contact Newport Beach Dental Center directly.
The cost of dental implants varies depending on the number of implants, whether bone grafting is needed, and the type of restoration placed. Newport Beach Dental Center provides a detailed written treatment plan with all costs before any work begins. The practice accepts PPO insurance including Delta Dental, and CareCredit and Cherry financing are available.
A standard single-tooth implant typically takes three to six months from surgical placement to final crown delivery. Patients who require bone grafting or tooth extraction before placement will have a longer overall timeline. Newport Beach Dental Center provides a clear phase-by-phase timeline during your consultation.
Most adults in good general health with adequate bone density are candidates for dental implants. Factors that may affect candidacy include bone loss, active gum disease, uncontrolled diabetes, or smoking. Dr. Sharbash evaluates each patient individually using imaging and a full health history review.
Newport Beach Dental Center accepts PPO dental insurance plans and is in-network with Delta Dental. Insurance coverage for implants varies by plan. The team reviews your benefits before treatment so there are no surprises. CareCredit and Cherry financing are also available.
Newport Beach Dental Center is a direct drive from Laguna Beach via Pacific Coast Highway, typically 15 to 20 minutes. The practice welcomes new implant patients from Laguna Beach and throughout Orange County.
