How Dental Implants Work: Step-by-Step Process

Step one

The first step is a consultation

Every implant journey begins with a consultation with Dr. Massaband. We take time to get to know you and your dental needs, then perform a thorough examination of your mouth — including X-rays or a 3D scan — so we can develop a personalized treatment plan.

We understand that some patients have concerns or anxieties about the process. Our team is committed to making your experience as comfortable as possible. We'll answer every question and make sure you feel confident before moving forward.

Dr. Liyan Massaband during an implant consultation

Real patient results

Dental Implant Procedure results at Magnolia Dentistry

Before and after missing front teeth — Magnolia Dentistry, Burbank — **Missing front teeth** Replaced with implant-supported teeth.

Before and after full-arch restoration — Magnolia Dentistry, Burbank — **Full-arch restoration** Failing teeth replaced with a fixed implant arch.

Before and after natural implant crowns — Magnolia Dentistry, Burbank — **Natural implant crowns** Shade-matched to the neighboring teeth.

Photos of Magnolia Dentistry patients, shared with permission. Individual results vary.

See the full smile gallery

How it works

From implant placement to your new smile

Initial implant placement
A small titanium post is placed into the jawbone during a minor surgical procedure under local anesthesia.
Osseointegration & healing
Over the next few months the jawbone heals and fuses with the implant. A temporary tooth replacement may be provided in the meantime.
Abutment placement
Once osseointegration is complete, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant to hold your new tooth or teeth.
Impressions
Impressions or digital scans of your mouth are taken to create a custom-made replacement tooth or teeth.
Attaching your new teeth
Finally, your crown, bridge or full-arch restoration is securely attached to the abutment and checked for comfort and bite.

Timing

How long does the implant process take?

Standard timeline

Typically 3–6 months from placement to final teeth, allowing the bone to integrate fully with the implant.

Immediate implants

In suitable cases, the implant is placed the same day a tooth is removed, reducing the number of appointments.

With bone grafting

If the site needs bone or gum preparation first, the overall timeline may extend by a few months.

Aftercare

Caring for your implants

Implant-supported teeth still need daily cleaning and professional review — the exact technique depends on whether you have a single crown, a bridge or a full arch.

Brush twice a day and clean between teeth or around the implant daily
Use a water flosser or interdental brushes under bridges and full arches
Keep regular cleanings and implant checkups
Avoid smoking, which affects healing and long-term implant health
Call if the bite changes, a restoration feels loose or the gum becomes sore or swollen

Patient reviews

Why patients trust Dr. Massaband

Hands down the best dentist and dental office I have ever been to. I got my teeth worked on by Dr. Massaband — she is an absolute delight. Her work is top of the line. I have always been afraid of the dentist, but the way she worked on me I didn’t feel any pain or discomfort, which is so rare to find. She really makes sure you are 100% satisfied before you walk out of her office. Staff is super friendly and the office is in a great location.

Ali BagheriGoogle review

Dr. Massaband was wonderful! I brought my mom to her in an emergency state. The doctor came in early on a Sunday, was very professional and detail oriented, took great care of my mom’s complicated procedure and even followed up multiple times a day during her recovery. Very grateful to have found her!

Anna AbramzonGoogle review

Dr. Massaband is the best dentist I have ever been to. She and her staff make you feel comfortable and cared for. So proficient, so professional — it’s the best work I have ever had done. I am no longer afraid to go to the dentist. Thank you, Doctor Massaband.

Janeen KrikorianGoogle review

Financing that works for you

We accept most traditional dental insurance plans and are happy to file claims for you. For treatment insurance does not cover, flexible financing through CareCredit and Cherry can spread the cost into manageable monthly payments.

No down payment needed on approved plans
Instant approval decisions in most cases
Use it for every stage of treatment
Cash, check and all major credit cards accepted

Insurance & financing Call (818) 846-9041

Financing is subject to credit approval by the lender. Ask our team which options apply to your treatment plan.

Frequently asked questions

Questions patients ask

Call (818) 846-9041

Is implant surgery painful?

It's done under local anesthesia, so you shouldn't feel pain during the procedure. Most patients describe mild soreness for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter medication.

Will I be without teeth during healing?

In most cases, no. A temporary crown, flipper, bridge or denture can be provided while your implants heal.

What is osseointegration?

It's the process by which the jawbone grows onto and fuses with the titanium implant, making it a stable foundation — similar to a natural tooth root.

Can I return to work after implant placement?

Many patients return to normal activities the next day. More extensive procedures may need a couple of days of rest.

Meet your dentist

Dr. Liyan Massaband, DMD, MPH

Dental implant & cosmetic dentist · 1,000+ successful implant cases

Dr. Liyan Massaband, DMD, MPH, is a California-licensed dentist who provides general, cosmetic, restorative, implant and emergency dental care at Magnolia Dentistry in Burbank. Patients from across Southern California see her for her attention to detail, gentle approach and experience with complex cases — including missing teeth, bone loss and failed dental work.

Her training spans Physiological Sciences at the University of Arizona, a Master of Public Health from the University of Southern California and a Doctor of Dental Medicine from Midwestern University — a foundation that treats your oral health as part of your overall well-being.