
Oct
Do not stop contacting Alpine Family Dental in Kalispell, Montana, if you are concerned about any changes to a tooth. Failure to promptly treat a damaged tooth can cause the underlying problem to worsen or escalate into a major, costly, and traumatic issue. It does not have to be this way. A composite dental filling, for instance, presents a comparatively conservative alternative to complications associated with untreated decay. These complications include permanent and irreparable damage to the tooth, which can ultimately result in its extraction or removal, and the need for a dental bridge or implant-supported crown or bridge to replace it.
It depends on the extent of damage to your tooth! Early signs of enamel erosion and decay can be resolved without treatment. For instance, we may recommend fluoride therapy to build up the minerals in the teeth, strengthening their structure. We can also advise on modifications to your hygiene (brushing and flossing technique) and may recommend or prescribe antibacterial rinses to stop the progression of the disease. If the decay process has resulted in lost tooth structure or a cavity or hole where tissue used to be, a filing may be needed. The filling material replaces the lost tooth structure and restores its appearance, strength, and health.
Not all cavities are good candidates for fillings. The filling material must adhere to adequate remaining tooth structure, or else the tooth will continue to be vulnerable to damage. So, this type of restoration is most appropriate for smaller cavities. Our dentists are happy to discuss treatment alternatives for those with larger cavities and more extensive decay.
A dental crown may be appropriate to adequately strengthen and sustain the tooth’s health and function. Instead of “filling in” the cavity, the crown fits on top of the natural, healthy tooth structure. For more advanced decay, root canal therapy may precede crown placement. When a tooth can’t be preserved or fails to heal properly, our dentists discuss options to replace it properly (like bridges or implants).
Dental composite is a resin material. It is formulated to replicate the properties of natural tooth material. We can prepare it. So, the color and other features of the composite blend well with the surrounding tooth and the neighboring teeth in the smile. It is both cosmetic and conservative (tooth-preserving). Our doctors apply the resin in layers directly to the tooth. This approach helps to ensure that only the damaged areas of the tooth are removed. Otherwise, healthy tissue is left intact and is not drilled out to “prepare” the tooth. The composite is hardened with a special light as each layer is applied. The tooth is precisely contoured and refined throughout the process before the filling is fully secured and polished to a dazzling luster and sheen.
No! With good oral care at home and regular visits to Alpine Family Dental, your filled tooth can continue to hold up, as can the rest of your teeth. If you are overdue for a checkup or concerned about dark spots or pitted areas, sudden sensitivity, and other changes, contact us immediately to schedule your visit. Our team in Kalispell, Montana, can be reached at (406) 393-8877.
Dr. Evan Olson, D. ABDSM, followed in his father’s footsteps and became a dentist. He completed his degree in Cell Biology and Neuroscience at Montana State University in Bozeman and then attended The University of Iowa College of Dentistry. Dr. Olson then practiced in a Community Health setting for five years treating all types of dental emergencies. He then ran a private practice in Central Oregon for seven years before moving back to Montana to take over Alpine Family Dental.
Dr. Olson was recently named a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine, which signifies extensive training and knowledge in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea and snoring. He is a Fellow of The Implant Pathway Surgical Program, a Member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and Academy of General Dentistry, and a Mentor for the CEREC Doctors training program. He has completed significant continuing education in many areas of dentistry including with the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine Mastery Program, training on dental implants at Implant Pathway, Misch Institute, and Pikos Institute, an internship on root canals at the University of Iowa, cosmetic dentistry courses at CDOCS and Spear Education, and further studies on infant frenectomy and CAD/CAM techniques.
Dr. Autumn Chapman received her degree in physiology from the University of Wyoming and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. She worked alongside her grandfather, Dr. Gerald Olson, in Havre, MT, before moving to Flathead Valley. Dr Chapman has been able to focus on education and training in facial esthetics and cosmetic dentistry. She has Training in orthodontics using suresmile clear aligners with CDOCs in Scottsdale and Training in Botox and filler with the american academy of facial esthetics.
Dr. Greg Eller obtained his degree in Aeronautical Maintenance and spent six years as a Skydiving Instructor. He then attended the University of Oregon where he graduated Summa Cum Laude in Pre-Medicine and the Oregon Health Sciences University Dental School. He is a member of the American Dental Association and Montana Dental Association and has IV moderate sedation training. After 14 years at Alpine Family Dental, Dr. Eller has now transitioned out of full-time practice.