Dental Implants in Gresham: A Guide to Your Options
What if you could turn back the clock on your smile—not just cosmetically, but functionally? Dental implants offer that kind of restoration. Whether you’re missing one tooth or all of them, implants provide a long-lasting, natural-feeling solution that goes beyond what traditional dentures or bridges can offer.
But with terms like full mouth implants, snap-in dentures, hybrid prosthetics, and single-tooth replacements floating around—how do you know which one’s right for you?
Let’s break it all down.
What Are Dental Implants, Really?
At their core, dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to replace missing tooth roots. Once healed, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is secured to the implant for a stable, functional replacement.
Think of implants as anchors—strong, reliable, and built to last.
The Different Types of Dental Implants
Not all implant treatments are created equal. The best option depends on how many teeth you’re missing, your jawbone health, lifestyle needs, and long-term goals.
Single Tooth Dental Implants
Perfect if you’ve lost just one tooth. A single implant and crown combo gives you:
- A fully functional replacement
- Zero impact on surrounding teeth
- A look and feel just like the original
Implant-Supported Bridges
Have a few missing teeth in a row? Instead of replacing each one with an individual implant, an implant-supported bridge uses two or more implants to hold a multi-tooth restoration in place—no need to shave down healthy teeth like with traditional bridges.
Snap-In Implant Dentures
Also called overdentures, these are ideal if you’re missing most or all of your teeth but still want something that’s secure, yet removable.
Snap-ins:
- “Snap” into place on 2–4 implants
- Are easy to clean and maintain
- Offer much more stability than regular dentures
Full Mouth Dental Implants (All-on-4/Hybrid Implants)
This is the big one. For patients needing a full arch of new teeth, hybrid implants (like All-on-4) use just 4–6 implants to support a fixed bridge of teeth.
These are non-removable and function just like natural teeth. No adhesives. No slipping. Just a confident, secure smile you don’t have to take out at night.
Who’s a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
In general, you may be a candidate if you:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Have healthy gums and sufficient bone density
- Don’t smoke or are willing to quit
- Want a long-term solution instead of temporary fixes
And if your bone density is low? Don’t worry—options like bone grafting or zygomatic implants can expand what’s possible.
The Real-World Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants don’t just look good—they work hard behind the scenes. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) and the Journal of Oral Implantology, implants offer:
- Bone Preservation – Unlike dentures, implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss.
- Improved Chewing and Speech – No shifting or clicking during meals or conversations.
- Restored Confidence – Patients with implants often report increased satisfaction with their smile and social life.
- Longevity – With proper care, implants can last 20 years or more—often for life.
It’s not just about replacing teeth. It’s about restoring quality of life.
What the Dental Implant Process Looks Like
The journey takes a few months, but the payoff is worth it. Here’s a simplified breakdown:
- Consultation & Imaging
- Implant Placement Surgery
- Healing Period (3–6 months) – Osseointegration occurs, where the implant fuses with your jawbone
- Abutment & Crown/Bridge Placement
Throughout the process, your comfort and safety are the top priority.
Say Goodbye to Gaps and Slipping Dentures
If you’re tired of avoiding certain foods, covering your smile, or dealing with loose-fitting dentures, implants might be your answer. They’re not just for looks—they’re a full-mouth solution for how you eat, speak, and live.
Interested in learning which dental implant option is best for you? Call Gresham Advanced Dentistry at (503) 664-9993 to schedule your consultation in Gresham, OR. Let’s bring your smile back—stronger than ever.
