Losing multiple teeth can affect much more than your smile. It can make eating, speaking, and feeling confident in social situations more challenging. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several solutions to restore both function and appearance. Two of the most common options are traditional dentures and All-on-X dental implants. Knowing the differences can help you make an informed decision about your oral health.

What Are Traditional Dentures?

Traditional dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth. They rest on the gums and are custom-made to fit your mouth. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, while partial dentures fill gaps when some natural teeth remain.

Dentures have helped millions of people regain their smiles, and they are often a more affordable upfront treatment option. However, because they sit on top of the gums rather than being anchored in the jawbone, they may shift while eating or speaking. Some patients also find that dentures require regular adjustments as the jaw changes over time.

What Is All-on-X?

All-on-X is an advanced implant-supported tooth replacement solution. The “X” refers to the number of dental implants used to support a full arch of replacement teeth, typically four to six implants. These implants are strategically placed in the jawbone, creating a stable foundation for a permanent prosthetic.

Unlike traditional dentures, All-on-X restorations are fixed in place and do not need to be removed for daily cleaning. The result is a secure, natural-looking smile that closely mimics the feel and function of natural teeth.

Key Differences Between All-on-X and Dentures

One of the biggest differences is stability. Traditional dentures can sometimes slip or move, especially when eating certain foods. All-on-X implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, providing exceptional stability and confidence.

Another important consideration is bone health. When teeth are lost, the jawbone can gradually shrink due to a lack of stimulation. Because dental implants function like tooth roots, All-on-X helps preserve bone density and facial structure. Traditional dentures do not provide this benefit.

Comfort and convenience also set these options apart. Many patients appreciate that All-on-X allows them to enjoy a wider variety of foods without worrying about adhesives or movement. Dentures, while effective, may require more maintenance and periodic relining or replacement.

Which Option Is Best for You?

The right choice depends on your oral health, lifestyle, goals, and budget. Traditional dentures remain a practical solution for many patients, while All-on-X offers a long-term, highly stable alternative that can dramatically improve quality of life.

If you are considering tooth replacement options, the best first step is to consult an experienced dental professional. Together, you can discuss your needs and determine which treatment will help you smile, eat, and speak with confidence for years to come.

Supporting local community initiatives is an important part of who we are as a dental practice. When we invest in local schools, charities, and events, we help create a healthier, stronger community for everyone we serve. Building these connections allows us to understand our patients’ needs better and give back in meaningful ways. It also fosters trust, relationships, and a sense of shared purpose. By staying involved, we’re not just caring for smiles in the office; we’re helping our neighbors thrive every day.

We’re excited to make a positive impact that extends far beyond dental care for our community’s future well-being. Here are a few local initiatives we sponsor or support.

Oregon Adaptive Sports (OAS)

Oregon Adaptive Sports is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making outdoor recreation accessible for individuals with disabilities. Based in Bend, OR, OAS provides year-round programs including skiing, snowboarding, cycling, hiking, and more, all adapted to meet each participant’s unique needs. Their mission is to empower people of all abilities to live active, healthy, and fulfilling lives through inclusive outdoor experiences. With the support of trained volunteers and specialized equipment, OAS helps build confidence, independence, and a strong sense of community. Their work opens doors to adventure, connection, and personal growth for participants and their families alike.

Friends of the Children Central Oregon

Friends of the Children Central Oregon is a nonprofit organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of generational poverty for youth facing the greatest obstacles. Through long-term, one-on-one mentorship, professional mentors (called Friends) support children from kindergarten through graduation, providing guidance, encouragement, and stability. Their mission is to empower each child to reach their full potential by building lasting relationships and offering consistent support. By partnering with families, schools, and the community, they help children develop confidence, resilience, and life skills that lead to brighter futures and stronger communities. They connect families with resources and opportunities that promote health, education, and long-term success.

High Desert Chamber Music

High Desert Chamber Music, based in Central Oregon, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing world-class chamber music to the region while fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts. Their mission is to inspire, educate, and engage the community through exceptional performances, educational outreach, and support for emerging musicians. By hosting concerts, workshops, and programs for students of all ages, they make music accessible and enriching for everyone. Through these efforts, High Desert Chamber Music strengthens community connections, nurtures young talent, and creates meaningful cultural experiences that uplift and inspire.

Contact us to learn more about these community initiatives and how to get involved!

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Updated in 12-18-2025

Over the past few decades, Invisalign® has emerged as a leading choice for patients seeking a discreet, comfortable way to rejuvenate their smiles. With clear, removable aligners and cutting-edge technology, it offers a modern alternative to braces—delivering effective results without compromising lifestyle. Confidence, convenience, and innovation make Invisalign® a top pick for smile transformations.

If you’re interested in the transformative effects of Invisalign®, schedule a spot for Drew Family Dentistry’s Invisalign® Day, which will be held on Friday, September 26th, 2025. Our team will provide a consultation to determine if Invisalign® is the right option for you, and if you start treatment that day, you’ll enjoy $1,000 off treatment costs!

Have more questions about Invisalign® treatment? Here are a few commonly asked questions:

How Does Invisalign® Actually Work?

Invisalign® uses a series of custom-made, clear plastic aligners that gently move your teeth into place over time. Unlike traditional braces, there are no metal brackets or wires—just nearly invisible aligners you wear over your teeth. Every one to two weeks, you switch to a new set of aligners, each one gradually shifting your smile closer to perfection.

How Long Does Invisalign® Treatment Take?

That depends on the complexity of your case. You could be done in as little as six months for minor tweaks. More involved adjustments may take 12 to 18 months (sometimes a bit longer). But here’s the kicker: you’ll start seeing results within weeks.

How Much Does Invisalign® Cost?

The overall price tag will vary based on your treatment plan and specific orthodontic needs. Most insurance plans cover Invisalign® aligners just as they cover metal braces. But, it is rare for insurance to cover Invisalign® aligners for purely cosmetic reasons. Every case is unique, so you should verify with your insurance company to know what they will cover. We’re also here to answer any questions about your insurance and discuss financing options. And don’t forget—if you start Invisalign® during our Invisalign® Day event, you’ll save $1,000 on treatment costs.

How Do I Wear and Care for My Aligners?

Here’s your simple aligner-care survival guide:

• Wear them: 20 to 22 hours per day. Only take them out to eat, drink (anything besides water), and brush/floss.
• Clean them: Gently brush them with a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water—never hot! Invisalign® also makes cleaning crystals for a deeper cleanse.
• Store them: Always keep them in their case when not in use.

Spots Will Fill Up Fast! Schedule Your Invisalign® Day Appointment Today!

We can’t wait to help even more patients enjoy the life-changing effects of Invisalign®. Door prizes, food, and other fun surprises will also be featured during our Invisalign® Day. Appointments are first-come, first-served, so don’t miss out!

Call us at (541) 610-3270 to reserve your Invisalign® Day spot. You can also email us at [email protected] for more information.

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Updated 12-18-2025

Same-Day Crowns in Bend, OR

Dental crowns are a common dental procedure that involves placing a cap over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. Traditional crowns typically require multiple appointments and a waiting period of several weeks, during which a temporary crown is used to protect the tooth. However, with advances in dental technology, same-day crowns are becoming increasingly popular.

What are Same-Day Crowns?

Same-day crowns are crowns that can be designed, fabricated, and placed in a single appointment at the dental office. This is made possible by computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology, which allows dentists to create custom-fitted crowns quickly and accurately. At Drew Family Dentistry, we utilize CEREC® Technology for same-day crowns and other in-office restorations.

The process begins with a digital scan of the patient’s teeth using a specialized camera, which produces a 3D image of the tooth and surrounding area. This image is used to design a virtual crown that fits the patient’s tooth precisely. The design is then sent to a milling machine, which carves the crown out of a block of porcelain or other dental material. Once the crown is finished, it can be immediately placed over the prepared tooth, eliminating the need for a temporary crown and a second appointment.

Benefits:

There are several benefits to choosing same-day crowns over traditional crowns:

1. Convenience: With same-day crowns, patients can have their damaged or decayed teeth restored in a single visit, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and time-consuming waiting periods.
2. Accuracy: The CAD/CAM technology used to create same-day crowns produces highly accurate results, ensuring a precise fit and comfortable bite.
3. Aesthetics: Same-day crowns are made from high-quality dental materials that closely resemble natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural-looking restoration.
4. Comfort: Traditional crowns often require multiple injections of local anesthesia and may cause discomfort or sensitivity during the waiting period. Same-day crowns minimize the amount of time the patient needs to spend in the dental chair, reducing discomfort and improving the overall experience
5. Durability: Same-day crowns are made from high-quality materials that are designed to last, providing a long-lasting restoration that can withstand normal wear and tear.

Are Same-Day Crowns Right For You?

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth that requires a dental crown, same-day dental crowns may be an excellent option for you. However, not all patients are candidates for same-day crowns, and your dentist will need to evaluate your specific situation to determine if this procedure is right for you. In general, same-day crowns are best suited for patients with a healthy tooth structure and minimal damage or decay.

Same-day dental crowns are an innovative and convenient solution for patients who require crown restoration. With their advanced technology and accurate results, same-day crowns offer several benefits over traditional crowns, including convenience, accuracy, aesthetics, comfort, and durability. If you think same-day crowns may be right for you, call our office to find out more about this cutting-edge dental procedure.

Updated 12-18-2025

Having damaged teeth is difficult, but sometimes going to the dentist can be even more difficult. Especially when they have to make messy impressions, the turnaround time is weeks and leaves you vulnerable in the meantime. Luckily enough at Drew Family Dentistry, our procedures for crowns require no messy impressions and allow you to be in and out in one visit thanks to the CEREC® system.

What is CEREC®?

Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramic or CEREC®, is a method of dental restoration that can be performed in-house at the clinic. It is used to repair damage to your teeth from decay or injury. Your restorations are designed using CAD/CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing). This method allows it to make impressions and then that information goes to another unit where it fabricates ceramic restoration of the teeth.

Advantages of CEREC®

The CEREC® system has shown positive impacts that are easier, faster, and more affordable than other methods. The biggest advantage of CEREC® is that the restoration process can be completed in one visit. Scheduling multiple visits can be a pain, so being able to get it all done in one go is great! Having a solution that can do a restoration in a single appointment also takes away the stress of having to find temporary solutions, which could later cause other problems like pain, tenderness, and swelling. Another advantage is that the CAD/CAM system impressions are typically very accurate and allow dental professionals to have more control in the process due to the precision of the CAD/CAM system.

How Long Do CEREC® Crowns Last?

The lifespan of CEREC® crowns, either for your natural teeth or dental implant, depends on a variety of factors such as the patient’s oral hygiene, however, a long-term study showed that more than 85% of CEREC® implants last 10 years or more. With good care, CEREC® crowns can last up to 20 years. To extend the lifetime of your implants you should take extra precautions like wearing a custom night guard if you grind your teeth or wearing a mouth guard if you are participating in sports.

If you have damaged teeth or other problems that are bothering you, you should contact your dentist. If your situation fits, they may suggest using the CEREC® system.

If you have any questions about your damaged teeth, please call our dental clinic in Bend, OR.

Enhance Your Smile with Invisalign®: A Comprehensive Guide

Invisalign® has transformed the landscape of orthodontic treatment, providing a discreet and comfortable alternative to traditional braces. The clear aligner system enables individuals to improve their smiles without the discomfort often associated with braces. While Invisalign® offers an aesthetically pleasing solution, it’s crucial to consider various factors when choosing orthodontic treatment. Our dentists at Drew Family Dentistry recommend evaluating your situation before making a decision. In this guide, we’ll explore the effectiveness of Invisalign® in addressing specific orthodontic issues.

Invisalign® Treatment for Common Concerns

1. Crooked Teeth

Invisalign® excels in treating crooked teeth, offering a practical solution to align teeth and enhance your smile discreetly.

2. Overbite & Underbite

Addressing both overbites and underbites, Invisalign® can reposition either the top or bottom teeth to achieve proper alignment with the mouth closed.

3. Crossbite

Invisalign® effectively corrects crossbites, ensuring that teeth align correctly when the mouth is closed, preventing misalignments in the back or front teeth.

4. Gaps in Teeth & Crowded Teeth

Whether you have gaps between your teeth or experience crowding, Invisalign® is a versatile solution. It resolves gaps and overcrowding, promoting optimal oral health.

Considerations and Limitations

While Invisalign® is an excellent option for various orthodontic issues, it’s essential to acknowledge its limitations. In some cases, traditional braces may be more suitable, especially for severe orthodontic problems, intrusion, and extrusion. It’s worth noting that Invisalign® has evolved over the years and is now capable of addressing more complex situations than before.

To determine if Invisalign® is the right choice for you, we recommend consulting with the experts at our Bend, OR, office. Contact your dental clinic today for personalized guidance on achieving your ideal smile.

Learn More About Invisalign® Call Drew Family Dentistry

Updated 12-18-2025

What Are the Pros and Cons of Dental Implants?

In the realm of modern dentistry, dental implant surgery has emerged as a revolutionary solution for replacing missing teeth. Understanding the pros and cons of dental implants is crucial if you’re considering this transformative dental procedure.

Cons of Dental Implants

While dental implants offer remarkable benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential drawbacks:

• Meeting Requirements: Before undergoing dental implant surgery, meeting specific criteria is necessary. Significant bone loss due to tooth loss may impact the success of the implant. Good overall health is also vital for optimal jawbone recovery.
• Cost Considerations: Although dental implants provide a long-term solution for tooth loss, they may not always be the most cost-effective option. However, the comfort, confidence, and natural feel they offer make them worth the investment.
• Lengthy Procedure: Dental implants are not a quick fix; the process can take several months. From removing an existing damaged tooth to fitting the implant anchor and waiting for healing, the overall procedure requires patience.

Pros of Dental Implants

The advantages of dental implants far outweigh the disadvantages, making them a preferred choice for many:

• Natural Look and Feel: Dental implants closely resemble real teeth, both in appearance and sensation. Once fitted, it’s challenging to distinguish between the replacement tooth and natural teeth. The anchored implants feel as strong as regular teeth.
• Ease of Eating and Chewing: Unlike dentures, dental implants seamlessly integrate with regular teeth when eating and chewing. After the completion of the procedure, you can enjoy a diverse range of foods without concerns.
• Longevity: Dental implants offer a long-lasting tooth replacement solution. While dental crown replacement may be necessary every 10-15 years, proper care can make the implants last a lifetime.
• Easy Maintenance: Taking care of dental implants is simple – follow the same routine as you would for natural teeth. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental checkups, and a healthy diet contribute to their longevity.
• Prevention of Bone Loss: Dental implants, anchored into the jaw, prevent bone loss. The implant’s screw thread mimics the root of a natural tooth, maintaining the strength of the jaw bone.

In conclusion, the numerous benefits make dental implants an excellent choice for those experiencing tooth loss. If you have questions or require further information, feel free to reach out. We are dedicated to helping our patients look and feel their best, and dental implants are a significant step in achieving that goal. Give us a call for any inquiries!