Aspire Dental
Lisa Kakishita, DMD:
Practice Profile Page

★★★★★

DENTAL TREATMENTS OFFERED

Dental cleaning

White fillings

Crowns

Inlays & onlays

Bridges

Clear aligners

Pediatric dental care

Porcelain veneers

Teeth whitening

Dentures & partials

Root canal treatment

Tooth extraction

TMJ treatment

Dental implants

CLEAR ALIGNER SERVICES

OFFICE HOURS

Monday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Tuesday: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Wednesday: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm

Thursday: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm

Friday: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm

Saturday: Closed

Sunday: Closed

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BEFORE & AFTER PHOTO GALLERY

PATIENT REVIEWS

I look forward to my visits to Aspire Dental.  Dr. Lisa and her team always go above and beyond to ensure that I feel comfortable and well taken care of.  The dental hygienists are very attentive and remember conversations that we have previously had.  They always ask me about how I am doing.  I feel like a friend and important voice my dental care when I go for my appointments as opposed to a number.  I think that speaks well to the level of commitment that Aspire Dental has for their patients.   They really take care in ensuring that everyone has a positive experience while feeling empowered to maintain a healthy smile!  I would highly recommend Aspire Dental!

Easily the best dentist experience I have ever had. The office has such a warm feeling from the moment you walk in (definitely NOT something I have ever associated with the dentists office). I no longer dread the day I have to go to the dentist- which also means I no longer avoid it and am getting the care that I need to be healthy! All of the staff are incredibly kind, thorough in explanations, and I trust them and their expertise. In the past I had felt like dentists were trying to sell me more services than I really needed but it was difficult to know because of the power dynamic of them being the doctor. I don’t feel like that at ALL here. I am provided the information that I need to make an informed decision. Also from what I can tell it’s a majority woman run/led office and I am very excited to support this business!

I look forward to my visits to Aspire Dental. Dr. Lisa and her team always go above and beyond to ensure that I feel comfortable and well taken care of. The dental hygienists are very attentive and remember conversations that we have previously had. They always ask me about how I am doing. I feel like a friend and important voice my dental care when I go for my appointments as opposed to a number. I think that speaks well to the level of commitment that Aspire Dental has for their patients. They really take care in ensuring that everyone has a positive experience while feeling empowered to maintain a healthy smile! I would highly recommend Aspire Dental!

I moved back to Portland last year and Aspire Dental was highly recommended by a friend. They redid a fill I had in one of my two front teeth that broke off decades ago. They matched the tooth color beautiful and I can’t even see a line. They have all the latest equipment and everyone is very nice and very skilled. I recommend the team!

I’m a new patient at Aspire Dental and I’m really happy with my choice. I had a great cleaning with Preslie! She was polite, thoughtful and efficient and I didn’t feel judged – one of the biggest fears I have when I go to the dentist! She also shared suggestions for ways to keep my teeth moving in a healthy direction between visits. The appointment started on time and I was finished with time to spare. The front desk team is awesome. Candi detailed out the cost to me prior to my appointment and answered all of my silly insurance questions, because insurance is confusing! Dr. Lisa and her team put together a dental plan for me that included potential next steps with the importance of each procedure and the out-of-pocket cost to me. I appreciate knowing what needs to get done, how soon and what it will cost me so I can plan ahead! I also did not feel pressured into any unnecessary treatments or even pressured into booking immediately. Honestly, I’m looking forward to my next visit and I don’t think a lot of people can say that about their dentist appointments.

Apsire Dental is the best dental practice I have ever been too. I have terrible genetics in terms of teeth, and I’ve had some traumatic dental experiences in the past. The staff at Apsire Dental does excellent work, answers all of my many questions, and always puts me at ease. The team is friendly, knowledgable, and helpful. They use modern equipment and methods, and I recommend all of my friends in the area when they need a new dentist.

I love Dr. Lisa and her team. I have been an Aspire Dental patient for many years. Very conveniently located downtown for me as I usually can take the streetcar from PSU, especially now at their new location. Special shout out to my hygienist, Julia. I had my 6 month cleaning today and she was so amazing that I almost feel asleep. I cannot say enough about the front office staff. It reminds me of “Cheers” where I am barely in the door and they are already greeting me by my name. Every chance I get, I refer friends and colleagues to Aspire Dental.

I pretty much never write Yelp reviews, but was so pleased with my visit here yesterday that I decided it was worth signing in specifically to give accolades. From the very first phone call confirming my appointment, to checking out at the end, the staff at Aspire Dental were kind, courteous and upbeat. After a lengthy stint without dental insurance, it had been a while (*ahem, years*) since I had been to any dentist–embarrassing! I was admittedly quite nervous about the preachy “shame-on-you” lecture I was sure I would inevitably receive–but no such lecture ever came. The Aspire staff weren’t the least bit judge-y or condescending, but rather were completely sweet and enjoyable during the entire appointment. They were professional, thorough, and made sure I understood everything that was going on throughout my visit, without once losing their friendly demeanor. The clinic itself was light, bright and clean, and they played a super fun playlist with music from all different genres, which kept the vibe upbeat. I never thought I would say I legitimately had a fun time at the dentist, but no, really, I did. Thanks Aspire!

Fantastic experience! All the staff were very helpful and a joy to chat with. They solved the dental issue I was experiencing quickly and professionally and explained everything thoroughly. They even checked my insurance costs to ensure I paid the least amount before doing any procedures. I highly recommend Aspire Dental and will definitely be keeping them as my primary dentist.

Great place to have dental care done. One of the most friendly staff I have ever met. They make sure your every need is met and do a great job. Dr. Kakishita takes the time to thoroughly explain treatment that need to be considered. They also offer parking validation from any STAR parking garage. I would highly recommend Aspire Dental.

So glad I found Dr. Lisa and her team! I found her due to a recommendation from my daughter’s dentist. I figure a fellow dentist is a great referral. I went in today for my second appointment, and Dr. Lisa and Courtney fixed several errors made by my previous dentist. Geez, I wish I had found her earlier! There are so many reviews for dentists that say something like, “they’re so nice!” But what do they do to your teeth?  I feel confident that Dr. Lisa will continue taking great care of my teeth, give me options, and have the highest level of skill in my mouth.

Can’t say enough positive things about Dr. Lisa and her team. I switched dentists recently because I didn’t feel they were doing a good job, and Dr. Lisa identified an issue with a crown installed by my last dentist. Dr. Lisa initiated the process for me to get a refund from that dentist and then installed my new crown, plus a second crown I needed. All was a relatively painless process with an experienced team I feel care for my well being. I’ll go to Dr. Lisa for as long as she’s a dentist in the greater Portland area!

My large family and I have been patients with this practice for several years. They are tremendous with children and make it fun with a treasure chest and balloon animals. My kids LOVE going to the dentists. The hygienists are fantastic – cheerful, good communicators, and gentle. They also validate parking from the STAR park garage nearby which really helps.

When you first walk into Aspire dental you feel immediately welcomed. All dental anxieties wash away with the calm friendly hygienist from the moment they great you in the lobby to the minute you leave their chair. My hygienist Preslie is always caring and gentle with her cleanings. Dr. Lisa takes genuine interest in each patients life. Dr. Lisa will never recommend unnecessary or costly treatment and they discuss out-of-pocket costs and explain your insurance before starting any treatment. This place is wonderful and conveniently located right off the street car in downtown Portland!

Dr. Kakashita and her team are phenomenal! I was referred to her by a colleague and she has restored my faith in good dentists. She and her staff clearly value their relationships with patients, and one another. The office is always busy, friendly and well organized. Dr. Lisa is never rushed and spends time to give you an update as well as recommendations for potential treatments. They always do a great job of providing you all your options, as well as expected costs. There are usually have giveaways/promotions and holiday decorations as well, which makes coming to the dentist a little fun!

Apsire Dental is the best dental practice I have ever been too. I have terrible genetics in terms of teeth, and I’ve had some traumatic dental experiences in the past. The staff at Apsire Dental does excellent work, answers all of my many questions, and always puts me at ease. The team is friendly, knowledgable, and helpful. They use modern equipment and methods, and I recommend all of my friends in the area when they need a new dentist.

This was the best dental visit I have ever had!!! The staff was very friendly and made sure I was comfortable. I loved working with Dr. Lisa and Preslie who took their time with my cleaning and exam while also taking the time to answer any questions I had. Thanks for a great experience at Aspire Dental, I highly recommend you go here if you haven’t already.

Dr Kakishita’s and the Aspire Dental team got rave reviews from my daughter today. After having had a horrible experience with another dental office a couple of weeks ago we were left very nervous and worried. They were very understanding about our worries and many questions and they patiently took the time to send us information that they clearly understood my insurance. They even sent me a copy of my insurance benefits so that I can double check their procedure codes against it. They clearly explained what was covered and stuck to our agreement that only what was covered be performed on the first time. My daughter reports having gotten a very thorough cleaning. She was also told that our preference for crowns as opposed to veneers for a couple of front teeth was also her suggestion for teeth that will look better and last longer. They have sent my insurance pre auth for future work so that I can feel comfortable and be completely satisfied with the outcome of our out of pocket quotes. Back home we have had 20 years experience (I’m in the east coast) with our current dentist we always walk out with a smile. After our disappointment with a west coast dentist office at the beginning of this month, we were worried that it would be the same at Aspire but I can safely say we were put at ease by their kindness, patience and most of all their willingness to win over our trust. Thank you.

Aspire is the best! The Dr., as well as my regular dental assistants and the office staff and everyone, are super friendly and helpful. I’ve only had one other dentist that even comes close, and Aspire is still better. I’ve had some really bad dentists in the past. One gave me procedures I didn’t need, another sent me a letter telling me I was not longer a welcome client after a bad Google review! That’s not to say that the bar is set low and that Aspire steps over it. That’s saying that I understand how hard it is to pick a new dentist and the investment and implications involved. I found Aspire because of their good reviews and have to recommend them to anyone else searching. You won’t be disappointed.

This was my the best dental experience by far! The staff was very friendly and provided clear explanations of what was happening during the appointment. I felt comfortable asking a lot of questions. I appreciated that a thorough medical history was taken. Tasha was a great dental hygienist – amiable, competent and observant. Dr. Lisa was great too. I didnt feel like services were forced on me and appreciated that I was given options on how to follow up my care. GO HERE!

Everything about Aspire Dental is great! I ADORE the online option to schedule, so fast and easy. I have major dental anxiety; everyone there was so sensitive and caring. My cleaning went so fast and was very informative. The team there really wanted to get to know me as a person, not just a set of teeth. I have already recommended Aspire to all my friends and family! Can’t wait to see you ladies in 6 months!

My family has been seeing Dr. Lisa and her team for more than eight years now. I have never had a better experience at the dentist. They are professional and courteous. My seven year old daughter loves visiting their office and actually nags me to visit the dentist. She has been visiting since she got her first teeth and they even let her sit on my lap to watch me get my teeth cleaned first at her first appointment.

I love Dr. Lisa and her team. I have been an Aspire Dental patient for many years. Very conveniently located downtown for me as I usually can take the streetcar from PSU, especially now at their new location. Special shout out to my hygienist, Julia. I had my 6 month cleaning today and she was so amazing that I almost feel asleep. I cannot say enough about the front office staff. It reminds me of “Cheers” where I am barely in the door and they are already greeting me by my name. Every chance I get, I refer friends and colleagues to Aspire Dental.

Great dentist — would highly recommend to others! – Staff is friendly and helpful; – They validate parking – fantastic especially since their office is downtown – Hygienist did a great job on my cleaning – made me feel comfortable, was friendly and didn’t overtalk!! I think it can be annoying when the hygienist is cleaning your teeth and asking you a million questions — umm, hello, my mouth is wide open i can’t talk, please don’t think we can have a 2 way conversation! – Dr Kakishita was fantastic – gave me options, explained upsides and downsides of certain procedures and treatment options; I felt educated about my options and didn’t feel pressured to do anything. – Got a free sonicare toothbrush for my first visit, not sure how long this promo is running for, but it was a definite plus!

So many great things about this dental office! Julia was an amazing hygienist. Definitely one of the best I’ve had! Everything was explained very thoroughly by everyone. The receptionists were also beyond nice! Dr. Lisa was awesome!! I couldn’t have asked for a better first patient experience. I’d definitely recommend to others!!So many great things about this dental office! Julia was an amazing hygienist. Definitely one of the best I’ve had! Everything was explained very thoroughly by everyone. The receptionists were also beyond nice! Dr. Lisa was awesome!! I couldn’t have asked for a better first patient experience. I’d definitely recommend to others!!

Best dental office I’ve ever been to. Christa cleans your teeth so gently, is super thorough, and remembers everything we discussed during my last visit. She is also super nice! Dr. Lisa is also very kind, incredibly knowledgeable, and generally a kickass MD. She doesn’t hesitate to recommend you to a specialist when needed. The whole experience is well crafted. I get in, they clean my teeth, ask if I want a goodie bag, send me to the front where the front of house staff already has my printed referrals, quote for a night guard, and my prescription toothpaste. I love efficiency and the  Aspire team  is a shining example. I drive up from California just to see them. If that’s isn’t proof enough, go in and find out for yourself.

Dr Kakishita’s team at Aspire Dental makes going to the dentist a real pleasure. I don’t have too much experience with Dr Kakishita herself as she mainly deals with major dental problems and operations. But if ever she wanted to change careers, she’d switch to being a recruiter because of her eye for incredible staff. To wit: Julia. When it comes to dental hygiene, I cannot imagine what a better dental hygienist would look like. She is speedy, thorough, and sensitive. She is non-judgmental but principled about her field of practice. Her friendliness and professional charisma disarms me to the point where I always buy in to and follow the dental advice she gives (she’s somehow talked me into wearing a mouthguard…for the rest of my life!). It’s for the best. She would make a great salesperson, for example, but in this role she’s had a real impact on my health and I’m very thankful for that. The front desk team, though, is also in the running for the best thing about Aspire Dental. They seem genuinely happy to be there, and to see me when I visit. I have no idea how much Dr Kakishita pays them to be that nice to every single client, but it must be a lot. They are always professional, flexible, and apologetic even when it’s clear that it’s me who screwed up an appointment. They are invariably light-hearted and …joyful? It seems like a small detail but medical settings default to being heavy if not outright oppressive. I also appreciate how good of a handle they have on my insurance. I do think that Aspire Dental should bust out for a water cooler, for while the reception ladies are doting about hydrating you, it’s with lukewarm water. I don’t know about you but I like my water cold, minerally, and **expensive**. The free perks that Dr Kakishita gives out like cupcakes and teeth whitening, though, are worth mentioning. Overall, 5/5. In fact, I feel very lucky that I got a spot at this dental clinic. With the quality of the experience you get there, I imagine it won’t be long before they have to record their “no new patients” voicemail.

I cant stress enough how comfortable the staff made me feel during my visit today 3/12/19. I hadn’t been to a dentist in a long time, so I was worried about judgement, but instead they were very friendly. I got recommended by my partner to check them out, and can say with confidence it will not be my last time. They are thorough, and efficient with the exam.

I love Aspire Dental for a lot of reasons but mostly because of the customer service provided. Preslie has been my fiance and my Hygienist since we started going to Aspire a year ago. She is not only extremely good at what she does, informative, and invested in achieving whatever results you might be seeking but she is also super comfortable to talk to, non-judgmental, thoughtful and friendly. I switched to Aspire Dental because I constantly felt pressured/guilted to spend more money on my teeth at my former dental provider. It felt like they were constantly trying to sell me on things instead of simply helping me to maintain my perfectly healthy teeth. I would actually lie to them about the amount that I floss because I was scared of the guilt-trip that I got when I was honest. Dr. Kakishita and her team could not be any more different. They are their to help you maintain and/or improve your dental health by doing whatever is most realistic and easy for you. They offer options for various things you might want to consider but never make you feel guilty for choosing not to do something. I would strongly recommend them to anyone seeking a comfortable, thorough, affordable, and friendly dentist experience.

Everything about Aspire Dental is great! I ADORE the online option to schedule, so fast and easy. I have major dental anxiety; everyone there was so sensitive and caring. My cleaning went so fast and was very informative. The team there really wanted to get to know me as a person, not just a set of teeth. I have already recommended Aspire to all my friends and family! Can’t wait to see you ladies in 6 months!

Finding a dentist who doesn’t suck can be a challenge. But Dr. Kakishita and her staff are great, and I’m so thrilled I didn’t have to go to twenty different dentists before finding one I like. Julia is pleasant and thorough and always explains what she’s about to do during the cleaning. And they never push you to schedule expensive procedures you don’t need. I would definitely recommend to anyone who is looking for a competent and kind dentist in Portland!

Had a great first appointment at Aspire Dental today! I’m one of those young adults that let my mom make my doctors’ appointments for as long as she would, and this was my first foray into booking an appointment on my own. They made it so easy and helped me understand my insurance. They explained all the jargon they used during my cleaning so I knew what was up and I got an exceptional cleaning. Both the hygienist and doctor were friendly and helpful. Will definitely be going back for my next cleaning!

Clean, brightly lit and comfortable interior space. Staff, hygienist and dentist all very friendly and accommodating. Avoided having to take my x-rays and get billed as they were more than willing to get them from my last dentist. Thorough cleaning and analysis of my dental history, asked if I experienced pain multiple times throughout the cleaning session to make sure I was comfortable. Explained what was going on during the session so I could ask questions and be fully aware of the process. They used some modern cleaning tech that I had not seen before. They offer you services that may not be covered by your insurance but articulate it upfront so there is no pressure to say yes. Got a free whitening pen as a new patient. Convenient location is a plus. Also dentist gave me heads up about lack of fluoride in Portland water system and how to prevent cavities as she asked and discovered that I grew up in the Midwest. A+, all set up to see them again in 6 months.

Having not been to an Dentist in 3 years, yesterday was a vivid reminder how important dental-care is to our overall health. Aspire accomplished it—Rebecca was most effective…thorough, and no pain, and Lisa was the consummate Pro—thorough also…with good advice going forward. The reception was friendly, and not over-done. Onward with Aspire! Bill Failing

I’ve been wanting to do a review for this wonderful dentistry for awhile. My husband and I have been patients here for a few years and although we have now moved to Tigard we still go out of our way to be able to go to Aspire. Why? It is rare these days to find people that genuinely seem to love where they work. Every time I’ve called they always ask about my family and and every time I go in for a cleaning am met with the most genuine smiles. They are totally on top of their game as well. When I was pregnant they informed me that my insurance allowed me an extra cleaning (I had no idea)! , also later down the road when I wanted to make a cleaning appt they said my insurance wouldn’t cover it for another week so better to come in when I know it will be 100% covered rather than risk it. My husband and I also completely trust Dr Kakishita. I feel a lot of dental clinics tell you you need work done when really you don’t or I feel like I’m being scammed whereas I know she will always give us honest advice. When we moved we tried another dentistry that got great reviews closer to home and left there totally deflated, not the same experience at all as we would get at Aspire. If you are looking for a great place I highly recommend Dr Kakishita and her wonderful team! Keep up the great work, your patients see it, feel it, and appreciate it!

A WORD FROM YOUR DOCTOR