Dental Implant FAQs - Santa Maria | Mai Dental Care

Are dental implants better than dentures?

Yes—for most patients, dental implants offer greater comfort, stability, and long-term value. Implants preserve jawbone structure, restore natural bite function, and eliminate the slipping or soreness often caused by traditional dentures.

Will my new teeth look natural?

Absolutely. We custom-design each restoration to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth. Our dental lab supported by in-house advanced digital imaging creates smiles that look and feel authentic.

Am I a candidate for dental implants?

Most adults in good health are. Even if you’ve had bone loss or dental issues, options like bone grafting may still make implants possible. Dr. Sheoran will evaluate your case during your consultation and explain every option.

How long does the process take?

Many patients receive same-day implants with temporary teeth placed immediately. Full healing and final restoration typically takes 3–6 months. We’ll review your personalized timeline at your visit.

Will the surgery hurt?

With sedation and anesthesia options available, most patients report minimal discomfort. Many don’t remember the procedure at all. We offer oral sedation and IV sedation based on your needs.

Do I need one implant per tooth?

Not always. One implant supports one crown—but to replace multiple teeth, we may use implant bridges or full arch solutions that only require 4–6 implants per jaw.

How long do dental implants last?

With proper care, implants can last 20+ years—or even a lifetime. Daily brushing, flossing, and regular checkups are essential to keep your gums and bone healthy around the implant.

Can dental implants fail?

Failure is rare but can happen due to smoking, poor hygiene, gum disease, or medical conditions. We reduce that risk with careful planning, premium materials, and ongoing support. With proper care, implants are one of the most successful procedures in dentistry.

Will I need teeth removed before getting implants?

If your natural teeth are failing due to decay or damage, Dr. Sheoran may recommend extraction followed by implant placement for long-term success. This is evaluated during your consultation.

How do I care for my implants?

Care is simple and similar to natural teeth: brush twice a day, floss or use a water flosser, and visit your dentist regularly. For full arch restorations, we may recommend special tools for cleaning beneath the prosthetic.

Will implants limit what I can eat?

Not at all! Once healed, dental implants allow you to enjoy all the foods you love. They restore over 90% of natural bite strength.

How much do dental implants cost?

Costs vary depending on how many teeth are being replaced, the type of restoration, and whether additional procedures are needed. The best way to get accurate pricing is to schedule a consultation.
Learn more about Dental Implant Costs

Does insurance cover dental implants?

Coverage varies by plan. Some policies cover portions of implant treatment, such as the crown or necessary extractions. We’ll verify your benefits and help you explore flexible financing options.

Vianey O.

Best dentist in Santa Maria, great Doctor and staff. Made me feel super comfortable, office is super clean, great atmosphere. Had no pain at all after my extraction. Really recommend Mai Dental Care for all your dental care needs.
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Ricky V.

Very friendly staff and took the time to explain the procedures being done and honest with me about everything. If you're looking for a good dentist then definitely check them out. I found them through Google because of all the positive reviews, and definitely wasn't let down :)
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Micaelina S.

I needed an emergency appointment due to a molar pain and the doctors and staff from Mai Dental Care were really accommodating and understanding of my needs. Every appointment and procedure that I had was one of the best experiences I had through this painful and unexpected period of my life.
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Rhonda K.

This was my first time visit and was so happy with the kind and respectful treatment that I received! I am in a power wheelchair and even though it was an older building the girls who work there were so patient and helpful as I maneuvered my way around! Dr. Mai was thorough and encouraging, making me feel comfortable while working with me!!
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sandra v.

Super satisfied with my services! Probably one of the best doctors I've seen for dental treatment!
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Kaylan B.

Couldn’t ask for a better doctor and staff. All were very patient and kind. The doctor and her hygienist and other nursing staff were also very gentle in their work. Definitely would recommend this office to a friend.
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Fernando H.

Muy buen trabajo en mis implantes
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Sharon P.

Both my husband and myself are so very Happy with Dr. Sheoran and her staff. She is a wonderful, caring dentist. Having worked in the dental field for a number of years I can truthfully say she is one of the very BEST!! My husband needed extensive work done and she did an amazing job.Her staff is always so helpful and can work with my work schedule.So very happy we found her. Thank You Dr. Sheoran!!!
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Leo P.

Mai Dental was a really Great experience I am very surprised of how fast I was able to get my root canal done. Not only was that done fast but it was done very professional and painless. And for me I’ve had a previous very bad dental experience (at a different office) so I was very nervous as anxious about going in to have work done but Mai Dental Reassured me that everything was gonna be okay and sure enough It’s been 2 days since my procedure and no pain at all! They were very gentle during my procedure I really Appreciated the doctor and staff everybody was very professional and very compassionate. I will be referring patients to them from here on out.
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