Restorative Dentistry in Missoula, MT — Rick Hoaglin, DMD
Restorative dentistry focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating diseases and conditions that affect the teeth and supporting structures — restoring full function, health, and natural appearance to damaged, decayed, or missing teeth. At Rick Hoaglin, DMD in Missoula, Montana, our restorative dental treatments address everything from a small cavity to more complex conditions requiring root canal therapy, tooth extraction, or the replacement of missing teeth.
Dr. Hoaglin's approach to restorative dentistry is rooted in conservative, evidence-based care — preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible, addressing problems early before they become more serious, and providing treatments that are designed to last. His Academy of General Dentistry Fellowship Award reflects the continuing education and clinical expertise he brings to every restorative case.
Schedule an Appointment — Call (406) 728-0200 | rickhoaglin.com
Fillings
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay, restoring the tooth's structure and function after the decay has been removed. At Rick Hoaglin, DMD, we use tooth-colored composite resin fillings that match the natural color of your teeth — providing a durable, aesthetically pleasing restoration that blends seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure. We also place amalgam (silver) fillings when clinically appropriate.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring a prosthetic tooth (or pontic) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap, which are fitted with crowns. Bridges restore the appearance and function of missing teeth, prevent neighboring teeth from shifting, and help maintain proper bite alignment. Unlike removable partial dentures, a bridge is permanently cemented in place and does not need to be removed for cleaning.
Root Canals
Root canal therapy is performed when the pulp — the soft tissue inside the tooth that contains nerves and blood vessels — becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, a cracked tooth, or repeated dental procedures. During root canal treatment, the infected pulp is removed, the canals are cleaned and shaped, and the tooth is sealed and typically capped with a crown to restore its strength. Contrary to their reputation, modern root canal procedures are no more uncomfortable than a routine filling — and they save teeth that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Extractions
When a tooth is too damaged, decayed, or compromised to be saved, extraction may be the most appropriate course of treatment. Dr. Hoaglin performs simple extractions in our Missoula office with a focus on patient comfort and minimizing post-procedure discomfort. Following an extraction, Dr. Hoaglin will discuss tooth replacement options — including dental implants, bridges, and dentures — to restore the appearance and function of the smile.
Minor Oral Surgery
In addition to tooth extractions, we perform minor oral surgery procedures including the removal of impacted teeth and other surgical treatments within the scope of general dental practice. Complex cases requiring specialist care are referred to an appropriate specialist with full coordination from our team.
Restorative Dentistry Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need a filling or a crown?
The choice between a filling and a crown depends on the extent of the damage or decay in the tooth. A filling is appropriate when the decay or damage is limited and enough sound tooth structure remains to support the filling material. A crown is recommended when the damage or decay is more extensive — affecting a large portion of the tooth, involving a cracked or fractured tooth, or following root canal treatment. Dr. Hoaglin evaluates each tooth individually and recommends the treatment that provides the most appropriate level of restoration for that tooth's specific condition.
Is a root canal painful?
Modern root canal therapy is performed under local anesthesia and is generally no more uncomfortable than having a cavity filled. The reputation of root canals as being particularly painful largely stems from experiences with older dental techniques. Most patients report that the relief they feel after root canal treatment — when the source of infection and pain is removed — far outweighs any temporary post-procedure soreness. Dr. Hoaglin and the team prioritize patient comfort throughout every procedure.
What happens if I don't replace a missing tooth?
Leaving a tooth unreplaced after extraction can lead to a number of problems over time. Neighboring teeth tend to shift gradually into the gap, altering your bite and potentially causing alignment issues throughout the mouth. The jawbone beneath the gap begins to deteriorate without the stimulation of a tooth root, and over time this can affect the support of surrounding teeth. Replacing a missing tooth — with an implant, bridge, or partial denture — preserves the health and alignment of the remaining teeth and the structure of the jaw.
Schedule an Appointment — Call (406) 728-0200 | rickhoaglin.com