Dentures

Are Dentures Right for You? Find Out from Alpine Family Dental

Dentures are a common and effective solution for restoring smiles and improving oral function for individuals with missing teeth. At Alpine Family Dental in Kalispell, MT, we understand that choosing the right tooth replacement option is essential for your oral health and confidence. Below, we provide comprehensive information about dentures, including their limitations and how dental implants can enhance their functionality. We will also help you determine your eligibility for implants and understand the associated costs.

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are custom-made prosthetic devices crafted to replace missing teeth and adjacent tissues. They typically comprise artificial teeth affixed to a gum-colored acrylic or metal base, providing a natural-looking restoration that sits atop the gums. Dentures can be either full (replacing all teeth in the upper or lower jaw) or partial (replacing multiple missing teeth while preserving remaining natural teeth).

What Are the Limitations of Dentures?

While dentures offer numerous benefits, they also have some limitations:

Stability: Traditional dentures may become loose or shift during eating or speaking, leading to discomfort and difficulty with certain foods.
Bone Loss: Dentures do not stimulate the jawbone, which can result in bone loss over time and changes in facial appearance.
Chewing Efficiency: Some patients may experience decreased chewing efficiency with dentures, especially with tough or sticky foods.
Speech Changes: It may take time to adjust to speaking with dentures, and some individuals may experience speech changes or difficulty pronouncing certain words.

How Can Dental Implants Improve Dentures?

Dental implants can address many of the limitations associated with traditional dentures:

Improved Stability: Implant-supported dentures are anchored to dental implants surgically placed in the jawbone, providing a stable foundation that prevents slippage or movement.
Bone Preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone, helping to prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure over time.
Enhanced Chewing Function: Implant-supported dentures offer greater chewing efficiency, allowing patients to enjoy a wider range of foods with confidence.
Natural Feel: Implant-supported dentures closely mimic the feel and function of natural teeth, providing a more comfortable and natural-looking solution.

How can I determine if I am eligible for implants?

Determining your eligibility for dental implants involves several factors:

Consultation: Schedule an appointment with us for a comprehensive evaluation of your oral health and jawbone density.
Dental Examination: Your dentist will assess the condition of your remaining teeth, gums, and jawbone using X-rays or CT scans.
Medical History: Your overall health and any underlying medical conditions may impact your suitability for implant surgery.
Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan outlining the implant process and expected outcomes.

How can I find out the cost of dental implants?

The cost of dental implants can vary depending on several factors:

Initial Consultation: During your consultation, we will provide an estimate based on your specific needs and treatment plan.
Number of Implants: The total cost will depend on the number of implants needed to support your denture.
Additional Procedures: If you require bone grafting or other preparatory procedures, these may add to the overall cost.
Insurance Coverage: Check with your dental insurance provider to see if any parts of the implant procedure are covered.

If you are considering dentures or dental implants as a tooth replacement option, contact Alpine Family Dental in Kalispell, MT today. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve a healthy, functional smile that you can feel confident in. Call us at (406) 393-8877 to schedule a consultation and explore your options for tooth replacement. Don’t let missing teeth affect your quality of life—trust us to provide the personalized care you deserve.

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.