Yes, Some practical knowledge is sufficient to use SQL queries with Java in an 100% O-O manner. Remember! think every thing as an object while doing java. As you mentioned, procedural concept can be used in java but that will look inefficient, tight coupling and cumbersome.
So many books are available in market which guides you to code/design in effective manner. One book is listed below.
Best Practices Java/JDBC
Congrats for passing SCJA/SCJP in less time. Its an achievement.
If you can spend some time by practically implementing the same, then definetely you can avoid your worries.
All the best!