Dental Implants in California, MD
Restore missing teeth with permanent, natural-looking dental implants at California Oral and Implant Surgery in California, MD. Dr. John McElveen — a board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon — provides single tooth implants, implant-supported bridges, and All-on-4 full-arch restorations using 3D-guided surgical technology for precise, comfortable results. Our office on Three Notch Road is just minutes from Lexington Park, Great Mills, Leonardtown, and Hollywood, and we welcome patients from across St. Mary's County and Southern Maryland.
Board-Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon · Last updated April 2026
Dental Implant Transformations
See the life-changing results our patients have achieved with dental implants—restoring function, confidence, and beautiful smiles.
This patient regained their confidence and ability to eat comfortably after an upper All-On-Four implant procedure.
A full smile transformation that allows for better function and a more joyful appearance.
Replacing a partial denture with a permanent solution improved this patient's ability to eat and speak.
The Implant Procedure, Simplified
A clear, patient-friendly overview of the process—from planning to final restoration.
1. Consultation & Planning
Your journey begins with a one-on-one consultation at our California, MD office to discuss your goals, followed by an examination and a CT scan to create your personalized treatment plan.
2. Site Preparation
If needed, we may perform preliminary work like a bone graft to ensure your jaw provides a strong and healthy foundation for the implant.
3. Implant Placement
On surgery day, our surgeons uses advanced, computer-guided technology to precisely and gently place the implant into your jawbone.
4. Healing & Aftercare
We provide complimentary PRP treatment for sedated patients to speed up healing and guide you through post-operative care for a smooth recovery.
5. Final Restoration
Once you are healed, we take digital impressions of your mouth for your general dentist to create the final, beautiful crown, saving you time and extra visits.
What Patients Are Saying
Real feedback from patients—highlighting comfort, professionalism, and life-changing results.
Couldn't have asked for a better experience or surgeon team. They were all so comforting and made me feel safe. I was awake for the procedure and they made sure to keep checking in on me to see if I was okay. I feel taken care of 100%. Thank you all so much!
If only I could give more than 5 stars. Dr. McElveen hands down is AMAZING! Top tier in professionalism and in the care he gives his patients. Let's not forget his awesome staff too! If you are looking, look no longer!
From the very first phone call, I knew I was in exceptional hands. The staff was nothing short of phenomenal — attentive, kind, and genuinely present. And the oral surgeon… top tier. This was my very first surgical oral experience, and it was painless, smooth, and handled with excellence from start to finish.
Dental Implant FAQs
Common questions about dental implants answered by our board-certified oral surgeon.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once healed, they support a custom crown, bridge, or denture that looks and functions like natural teeth. They are the most durable, long-lasting tooth replacement option available.
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with one or more missing teeth are candidates for dental implants. Ideal candidates have adequate jawbone density and healthy gums. If bone loss has occurred, bone grafting can often restore the foundation needed for implant placement. Dr. McElveen will evaluate your individual situation during a consultation.
How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and regular dental checkups, dental implants can last a lifetime. The implant post itself is designed to fuse permanently with your jawbone. The crown or restoration on top may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.
Is the dental implant procedure painful?
Most patients report that the procedure is far more comfortable than they expected. We use local anesthesia and offer IV sedation for maximum comfort. Many patients take only over-the-counter pain medication during recovery and return to normal activities within a day or two.
What is All-on-4 and how is it different from individual implants?
All-on-4 is a full-arch restoration technique that uses just four strategically placed implants to support an entire arch of teeth. Unlike individual implants (one per missing tooth), All-on-4 replaces a full set of upper or lower teeth in a single procedure — often with temporary teeth placed the same day.
Does insurance cover dental implants?
Many dental insurance plans now cover a portion of dental implant treatment. Coverage varies by plan. Our team will verify your benefits and explain your out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins. We also offer flexible financing options to make implants affordable.
How long does the implant process take from start to finish?
The full process typically takes 3–6 months, depending on healing time and whether bone grafting is needed. The surgical placement visit itself usually takes about an hour per implant. After a healing period for the implant to fuse with bone, your general dentist places the final crown.
Do I need a referral to get dental implants?
No referral is needed. You can call us directly at (301) 685-5688 or request a consultation online. Many patients are referred by their general dentist, but self-referrals are welcome.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation in California, MD
Ready to restore your smile? Contact California Oral and Implant Surgery to schedule a dental implant consultation with Dr. McElveen. We serve patients from Lexington Park, Leonardtown, Great Mills, Hollywood, Mechanicsville, and communities throughout St. Mary's County, Calvert County, and Charles County.