For a lot of people, the hardest part of getting a dental implant isn’t the procedure itself — it’s the anticipation leading up to it. Not knowing exactly what will happen, how long it takes, or what you’ll feel afterward can make even a routine surgical appointment feel daunting. The good news is that dental implant placement is one of the most well-documented and predictable procedures in modern dentistry, and knowing the full picture ahead of time makes a real difference.
At Newport Beach Dental Center, Dr. Laura Sharbash, DDS, FAGD, D.ABDSM, guides patients through every step of the implant process with the same conservative, detail-oriented approach that defines our practice. Our dental implants services are built around thorough preparation and transparent communication so that by the time your appointment arrives, there are no surprises. Dr. Sharbash holds the Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry designation, earned by fewer than 6% of dentists in the country, and brings that depth of training to every surgical appointment.
Before You Arrive: What the Preparation Looks Like
The day of surgery doesn’t begin that morning, it begins weeks earlier with your consultation and pre-surgical planning. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, adults between the ages of 20 and 64 average just 26 remaining teeth, which means tooth loss and the need for replacement are far more common than most patients realize. The good news is that careful planning significantly improves outcomes, which is why we use 3D imaging and digital impressions to map out the implant site before your procedure day.
In the days before surgery, you’ll receive specific pre-op instructions. These typically include guidance on eating and drinking beforehand if sedation is being used, any medications to pause or take, and what to arrange for after the appointment. Having a trusted person drive you home is important if sedation is part of your plan.
What Happens During Implant Placement?
There are several phases patients can expect when undergoing implant placement.
Arriving and Getting Comfortable
When you arrive, our team will confirm your medical history and go over the day’s plan one more time. Local anesthesia is administered to the surgical site, so the area will be thoroughly numb before anything begins. For patients who prefer a more relaxed experience, we offer IV sedation as an option, which allows you to remain comfortable and largely unaware throughout the procedure.
The Surgical Steps
Once you’re numb and settled, Dr. Sharbash makes a small incision in the gum tissue to expose the underlying bone. A precisely measured channel is then created in the jawbone to receive the titanium implant post. The post is placed, the gum tissue is repositioned, and sutures are placed if needed. For most single-implant cases, the entire surgical portion takes roughly 30 to 60 minutes.
The procedure itself is typically pressure-based rather than painful. Most patients report feeling movement and sensation without discomfort, and many are surprised by how manageable the experience is.
Right After the Procedure
Once placement is complete, you’ll spend a brief period in our office while any sedation begins to wear off and our team confirms you’re feeling stable. You’ll leave with written post-op instructions covering what to eat, how to clean the area, what medications to take, and warning signs to watch for.
Swelling and mild soreness over the first few days are normal and expected. Most patients manage this well with over-the-counter pain relief and cold compresses, and resume normal activities within a day or two. It’s worth reading through our blog on how to increase dental implant longevity, the habits you build during the healing phase have a lasting impact on outcomes.
The Osseointegration Period
After placement, the implant enters a healing phase called osseointegration, during which the titanium post fuses with the surrounding jawbone over a period of several months. This is what gives the implant its permanent, natural-feeling stability. During this time, you’ll have follow-up visits so we can monitor the healing process and address any questions. If you’ve been unsure whether implants are right for your situation, our blog on whether dental implants might be the right solution covers the candidacy process in detail.
Once osseointegration is complete, the final crown is attached, completing your restoration with a result that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
Talk to Newport Beach Dental Center About Your Implant Consultation
Understanding what to expect is the first step toward feeling confident about moving forward. Dr. Sharbash and the Newport Beach Dental Center team are committed to making every phase of the implant process clear, comfortable, and tailored to you. You can learn more about Dr. Sharbash’s background and surgical approach on her provider profile.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a complete, stable smile, request an appointment online today. We look forward to answering your questions and building a plan that works for you.
