Implants, Bridges or Dentures? Find the Right Fit for Your Smile

If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in downtown Portland to help restore your smile after tooth loss, you’ve come to the right place. At Downtown Dental Associates, Drs. Jake Becker and Hailey Dodson understand how much your smile means to your confidence, comfort and overall well-being. Whether you’ve lost one tooth or several, modern dentistry offers a range of effective solutions to help.

Let’s explore three of the most popular tooth replacement options—dental implants, bridges and dentures—and how to decide which might be the best fit for your needs.

Dental Implants: A Long-Term Solution

What they are: Implants are small titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots. Once placed into the jawbone, they support a crown, bridge or even a full denture.

Why patients love them: Implants feel and function like natural teeth. They’re sturdy, long-lasting and help preserve bone health in the jaw. With proper care, dental implants can last decades, making them a worthwhile investment in your smile.

Best for: Patients with healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density who want a permanent, low-maintenance solution.

Dental Bridges: Filling the Gap

What they are: A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth (or teeth) between two crowns placed on the neighboring natural teeth.

Why patients love them: Bridges are fixed (not removable), blend seamlessly with your smile and are typically quicker and more affordable than implants.

Best for: Patients missing one or a few teeth in a row, especially when the surrounding teeth could also benefit from crowns.

Full or Partial Dentures: Affordable & Effective

What they are: Dentures are custom-fabricated, removable appliances that replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues. Full dentures replace all teeth, while partials fill in the gaps when some natural teeth remain.

Why patients love them: Modern dentures are more natural-looking and comfortable than ever before. They’re also a great option for patients who want a non-invasive and cost-effective solution.

Best for: Patients missing multiple teeth or all their teeth, especially those not suited for surgery or looking for a budget-friendly alternative.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the right treatment depends on several personal factors. The number of teeth you’re missing plays a big role, as does the health of your gums and jawbone. Some patients prefer a permanent solution like implants, while others may feel more comfortable with a removable option such as dentures. Budget and timeline are also important considerations. What works best for your lifestyle and goals?

The most reliable way to make the right choice is to schedule a consultation with one of our caring dentists. We’ll take the time to understand your needs, assess your oral health and walk you through each option so you feel confident moving forward with a personalized plan.

Ready to Smile Again?

Tooth loss doesn’t have to be the end of your smile; it can be a new beginning. At Downtown Dental Associates, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you feel confident every step of the way.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with your friendly dentist in downtown Portland. Let’s get your smile back on track.

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