October 13, 2025

Key Takeaways Losing a tooth feels like more than just a dental problem. It changes how you chew, how you speak, and how you smile. The good news is you have options. Dentures, bridges, and implants all replace missing teeth, but they’re not created equal. If you’ve been wondering whether dental implants in Sherman Oaks are the right move, let’s walk through the process in plain language. At Clove Dental Sherman Oaks, we see this question all the time: “Are implants worth it?” For many people, yes. The decision is based on your health, budget, and long-term goals. What’s a dental implant, really? Think of an implant as a new root for your tooth. A small metal post goes into the jawbone. Later, a crown is attached on top. Once it heals, it works just like a real tooth. You can bite into a sandwich or laugh with friends without giving it a second thought. How the process usually goes Getting an implant isn’t instant.  It can take months, but the payoff is a tooth that feels natural and steady. Other options: bridges and dentures Let’s be real. Implants aren’t the only option. If cost weren’t a factor, most patients would pick implants. But budget matters, so it’s worth weighing the pros and cons. Talking cost Here’s the tricky part: implants cost more up front. Dentures and bridges seem easier on the wallet. You might need new dentures every few years. Bridges can break if the teeth holding them are not healthy. Implants are usually a one-time investment. Many people looking at dental implants in Sherman Oaks see the bigger picture: spend more now, avoid repeated fixes later. What recovery feels like People often imagine implant surgery as scary. The truth? Most patients say it’s easier than a tooth extraction. There’s swelling for a few days and some soreness, but over-the-counter medicine usually helps. The longer part is the healing. The post needs time to bond with bone, often three to six months. During that time, a temporary crown or denture can cover the space. Once healed, you get the final crown, and it looks like the tooth was never missing. Who’s a good fit? Not everyone can jump straight to implants. You need: Smokers and people with certain health issues may need extra care before starting. That’s why an exam comes first. Why patients like implants Here’s what we hear from people after they’ve chosen dental implants in Sherman Oaks: That everyday comfort is what makes implants stand out compared to dentures or bridges. Our view at Clove Dental Sherman Oaks We believe implants are one of the best long-term fixes for missing teeth. But they’re not always the right call for every patient. Sometimes a bridge or denture makes more sense. What matters is matching the solution to your mouth, budget, and goals. Quick takeaway If you’re missing a tooth, you don’t have to live with the gap. Implants, bridges, and dentures can all help. Of those, implants often feel most natural and last the longest. Thinking about dental implants in Sherman Oaks? Come talk with us at Clove Dental Sherman Oaks. We will explain your options in simple terms. We’ll help you choose what works best for your smile.