By Anchor Dental Implant Center | June 15, 2026
If you have been thinking about dental implants, you probably have questions. What does the process actually look like? How long does it take? Will it hurt? Understanding your dental implant journey — what happens at every single step in St. Johns — is the best way to walk in feeling confident. At Anchor Dental Implant Center, Dr. Hooman Samani takes a patient-first approach. He believes that informed patients heal better and feel more comfortable throughout treatment.
Step One: Your Dental Implant Consultation in St. Johns
Every successful implant journey starts with a thorough consultation. Dr. Samani will review your medical and dental history in detail. He will take 3D imaging scans to evaluate your jawbone density and gum health. This helps him build a treatment plan that fits your specific anatomy and goals.
During this visit, you will have time to ask every question on your mind. No question is too small or too basic. Dr. Samani will explain what your treatment timeline looks like. He will also discuss your comfort options, including available Sedation Options, so you feel relaxed at every appointment.
The consultation is also when Dr. Samani checks for any issues that need attention first. Gum disease or bone loss may require preparatory treatment. Identifying these early means fewer surprises later. You leave the consultation with a clear, personalized roadmap.
Step Two: Tooth Extraction and Bone Preparation
Not every patient needs an extraction before their implant. However, if a damaged or failing tooth is still present, it must be removed first. Dr. Samani performs extractions gently and with precision. Many patients are surprised at how manageable the experience actually is.
After extraction, some patients require a bone graft. This happens when the jawbone lacks the density needed to support an implant. Bone grafting material is placed at the site to encourage new bone growth. Healing from this stage typically takes a few months before implant placement can begin.
Here is what you can expect during the preparation phase:
- Gentle tooth extraction if needed
- Bone grafting to strengthen the jaw if required
- A healing period to allow the bone to stabilize
- Follow-up imaging to confirm readiness for the next step
Not every patient needs all of these steps. Some patients move straight from consultation to implant placement. Dr. Samani will tell you exactly which steps apply to your situation.
Step Three: Implant Placement Surgery in St. Johns
This is the step most patients feel nervous about — but it is far more manageable than they expect. Dr. Samani places the titanium implant post directly into your jawbone. The area is numbed thoroughly before anything begins. Most patients report feeling pressure rather than pain during the procedure.
The entire placement procedure typically takes one to two hours per implant. Sedation is available for patients who prefer a more relaxed experience. Once the post is placed, a healing cap is attached to the implant site. Your gums are then sutured closed around it.
After placement, the real magic begins beneath the surface. The implant goes through a process called osseointegration. This means the titanium post fuses with your natural bone over time. This biological bonding is what makes implants so stable and long-lasting.
The osseointegration phase typically takes three to six months. During this time, you will have follow-up check-ins with Dr. Samani. He monitors your healing closely and answers any questions that come up. Most patients manage daily life comfortably during this healing period.
Step Four: Abutment Placement and Your Final Crown
Once osseointegration is complete, the next phase begins. Dr. Samani will attach a small connector piece called an abutment to the implant post. This piece acts as the foundation for your final restoration. A short healing period follows before the crown is placed.
Your permanent crown is custom-made to match your surrounding teeth. Dr. Samani takes impressions or digital scans to ensure a precise fit. The crown is crafted to blend naturally with your smile in color, shape, and size. Once placed, it looks and functions just like a real tooth.
Here are the key benefits patients enjoy once their implant journey is complete:
- A fully restored bite with natural chewing strength
- A permanent tooth replacement that does not slip or shift
- Preserved jawbone health and facial structure
- Improved confidence when speaking and smiling
- Easy maintenance with regular brushing and flossing
Many St. Johns patients say the final result exceeded their expectations. Reading firsthand experiences can be reassuring — check out our patient Reviews to hear what others have said about their journey with Dr. Samani.
Aftercare and Long-Term Success
Your implant journey does not end the moment the crown is placed. Proper aftercare is essential for long-term success. Dr. Samani will provide detailed instructions for caring for your new implant. Following these guidelines protects your investment for decades to come.
Daily brushing and flossing around the implant site keeps gum tissue healthy. Regular professional cleanings at Anchor Dental Implant Center also matter greatly. Dr. Samani monitors the implant, crown, and surrounding bone at each visit. Early detection of any issues means faster and simpler solutions.
With the right care, dental implants can last a lifetime. That is not an exaggeration — well-maintained implants regularly last 20 to 30 years or longer. The titanium post itself rarely needs replacement. The crown may need refreshing after many years of normal wear.
Patients in St. Johns who commit to their aftercare routine enjoy the best outcomes. Dr. Samani and his team are always available to answer questions between appointments. You are never left guessing about what is normal or what needs attention. That ongoing support is a cornerstone of care at Anchor Dental Implant Center.
Ready to Start Your Implant Journey in St. Johns?
Understanding your dental implant journey — what happens at every single step in St. Johns — takes away the fear of the unknown. Dr. Hooman Samani and the team at Anchor Dental Implant Center are here to guide you from your very first question to your very last follow-up appointment. Every step is explained clearly, every concern is taken seriously, and your comfort is always the priority. Book Now to schedule your appointment with our team.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire dental implant process take?
The timeline varies based on your individual needs. For patients who need bone grafting, the process can take nine to twelve months from start to finish. Patients who do not need preparatory work may complete their journey in four to six months. Dr. Samani will give you a realistic estimate during your consultation.
Is dental implant surgery painful?
Most patients experience less discomfort than they anticipated. The implant area is fully numbed before the procedure begins. Sedation options are also available for patients who feel anxious. Post-procedure soreness is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relief and fades within a few days.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with missing teeth are candidates for dental implants. Good bone density and healthy gums are key factors. Dr. Samani evaluates each patient individually using 3D imaging and a full health review. Even patients with some bone loss may qualify after preparatory bone grafting.
What happens if I need a bone graft before my implant?
A bone graft adds density to areas of the jaw that have weakened over time. Grafting material is placed at the extraction or implant site to stimulate new bone growth. A healing period of several months follows before implant placement can proceed. Dr. Samani will explain whether a graft is needed during your initial consultation.
How do I care for my dental implant after it is placed?
Caring for a dental implant is very similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush twice daily, floss around the implant site, and rinse with a non-abrasive mouthwash. Schedule regular professional cleanings with Dr. Samani to keep the gum tissue and bone healthy. Consistent care is the single most important factor in long-term implant success.
