Dentures in Missoula, MT — Rick Hoaglin, DMD

Losing teeth — whether due to decay, gum disease, injury, or the natural aging process — affects much more than your smile's appearance. It affects your ability to eat comfortably, speak clearly, and feel confident in social situations. Dentures are a time-tested, affordable solution for replacing multiple missing teeth or a full arch of teeth, restoring function and aesthetics so that patients can eat, speak, and smile with renewed confidence. At Rick Hoaglin, DMD in Missoula, Montana, we provide custom-fitted full and partial dentures designed to look natural and fit comfortably.

Dr. Hoaglin takes a personalized approach to every denture case, understanding that the fit, appearance, and function of your dentures have a significant impact on your daily quality of life. We use high-quality denture materials and take the time to ensure that your dentures look and feel as natural as possible — from the color and shape of the teeth to the fit of the denture base against your gum tissue.

Schedule an Appointment — Call (406) 728-0200 | rickhoaglin.com

Types of Dentures

Full (Complete) Dentures

Full dentures replace all of the teeth in the upper arch, the lower arch, or both. They consist of a gum-colored acrylic base that sits over the gum tissue and a full set of prosthetic teeth. Conventional full dentures are placed after the gums have healed following tooth extraction — typically several weeks after extractions are complete. Immediate dentures can be placed on the same day as extractions but may require adjustment as the gum tissue heals and changes shape.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are designed for patients who have lost some but not all of their teeth in an arch. They fill the gaps left by missing teeth and are held in place by clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth. In addition to restoring the appearance and function of missing teeth, partial dentures help prevent the remaining natural teeth from shifting into the gaps left by missing teeth.

Implant-Supported Dentures

For patients seeking greater stability and a more secure fit, implant-supported dentures anchor to dental implants placed in the jawbone rather than resting on the gum tissue alone. This eliminates the movement and slipping that can occur with traditional dentures and provides a more natural feel during eating and speaking. Dr. Hoaglin can discuss whether implant-supported dentures are appropriate for your situation during your consultation.

Adjusting to New Dentures

Adjusting to new dentures takes time and patience. It is normal to experience some soreness, increased saliva production, and minor speech changes in the first few weeks as your mouth adapts to the new appliance. Dr. Hoaglin and the team provide thorough guidance on caring for your dentures, managing the adjustment period, and knowing when to come back in for any necessary adjustments. Regular follow-up visits are an important part of ensuring your dentures continue to fit well over time.

Denture Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do dentures last?

    Dentures typically last five to ten years before they need to be replaced, though this varies based on the quality of the materials, how well they are cared for, and how significantly your jaw structure changes over time. Regular professional examinations at our Missoula office allow Dr. Hoaglin to monitor the fit and condition of your dentures and recommend adjustments or replacement when appropriate.

  • Can I sleep with my dentures in?

    Most dentists — including Dr. Hoaglin — recommend removing full dentures at night to allow your gum tissue to rest and recover. Removing dentures overnight also reduces the risk of bacterial growth and allows you to soak and clean them thoroughly. We will provide specific care instructions for your dentures at your fitting appointment.

  • Will dentures affect how I eat and speak?

    There is typically an adjustment period when you first receive new dentures during which eating certain foods and speaking clearly may feel different. Most patients adapt fully within a few weeks. Starting with softer foods and practicing speaking aloud at home helps speed up the adjustment process. If you experience persistent difficulty or significant discomfort, contact our Missoula office — adjustments to the fit of your dentures can make a significant difference in comfort and function.

Schedule an Appointment — Call (406) 728-0200 | rickhoaglin.com