- Dental ExaminationYes, if plaque is allowed to collect at the margin of the tooth, a cavity can begin. You still need to brush and floss a crowned tooth the same as all your other teeth. Also, maintain regular dental exams so your dentist can monitor crowns that you have.
- X-rays
- Teeth CleaningWe have found the best way to introduce children to our practice is to bring them along when you or an older sibling has a dental cleaning. The young child gets to see their "role model" in the dental chair and get some hands on experience with all of the "fun toys" we use. Usually, within 1 to 2 visits the child jumps into the chair and becomes part of the practice.
- Fluoride Treatment
- Fillings
- VeneersVeneers are thin tooth colored coverings bonded on the front of teeth. They are usually used to improve the appearance of one's smile. They can rearrange or reshape the teeth, improve the color, and fill in gaps.
- CrownsThe dentist will require two dental visits to prep and cement the crown. First the dentist will need to prepare the tooth for the crown to be fitted over it. He will take an impression to send to the lab so that they can make the crown. The creating of a crown at the Dental Lab is a complex and exacting procedure. Think of each crown as a hand-made piece of jewelry.
- BridgesResults of this can be: headaches, broken or cracked teeth, severe and irreversible wear of the teeth, and broken crowns and bridges. In addition, abnormal pressure on the TMJ can lead to Temporal Mandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, generalized sensitivity of the teeth and early bone loss.
- Dental Bonding
- Restorative DentistryAfter Dr. Erler realized he wanted to spend more time helping people directly rather than spending time in the lab, he decided to attend the Oregon Health and Sciences University. He graduated with high clinical honors and was awarded multiple awards for his work in restorative dentistry. Dr. Austin believes in compassionate and comprehensive dental care. He prioritizes his patients own unique needs in order to create an individualized treatment plans for his patients. Dr. Erler uses his background in material sciences to stay up to date with the latest and best dental materials. Dr. Erler is currently a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, the American Dental Association and a member in study clubs around Missoula.
- Root Canal TreatmentA root canal is a procedure that repairs and saves a badly damaged or infected tooth. The pulp (center of tooth) is removed and replaced with an invert material. A root canal is also known as endodontic treatment.
- Deep CleaningThis is a term meant to describe periodontal scaling. Individuals who have had a more advanced form of gum disease "periodontitis", require a more technical cleaning. Periodontal disease results in the loss of supportive bone around the teeth. Pockets which harbor bacteria then form. These areas cannot be cleaned with normal brushing and flossing.
- DenturesDentures are a method of restoring missing teeth. A complete denture can be made to replace all of the teeth or a partial denture can be made to replace a few teeth.
- Overdentures
- Dental ImplantsA dental implant is a titanium post (like a tooth root) that is surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum line that allows your dentist to mount replacement teeth in the area
- Oral Surgery
- Gum Surgery
- OrthodonticsThis is the same patient at the age of 13 after completing orthodontics and temporary repair of her right central tooth.
- BracesWe have been very happy with Dr. Erler and his staff. My kids think he's great and love the treasure box, especially the punch balloons! He was also extremely helpful planning out and referring us to an orthodontist for braces, and an oral surgeon for a dental implant. Super knowledgeable and honest in his recommendations. We trust he always guides us to the right decision for us, not him. Highly recommended!
- Teeth WhiteningWhitening is a relatively quick, easy, and inexpensive method of improving your smile. In many cases whitening alone will give you the smile of your dreams. Many methods are available but the bleach dispensed by the dentist in custom trays has been shown to be the most effective method with no damage to your teeth.
- Cosmetic DentistryYou don't have to be apprehensive about going to the dentist. Missoula, Montana residents are lucky enough to have the friendly and professional dental services of Dr. Scott Erler. Whether you want to enhance your smile with cosmetic dentistry or improve your bite with corrective and preventative care, trust the 40+ years of experience you'll find at the dental office of Dr. Scott Erler. Along with abundant experience, our office also features modern technology to precisely diagnose problem areas and remedy them with minimal pain. Children's Dental care is very important, and our office is very kid friendly. Don't fret the dentist, come to our Missoula, MT, dental office where we meet every visitor with a smile! Call our team today at 406-721-1067.
- General DentistryDr. Erler has served in many offices for the Montana Dental Association and was twice appointed to the Montana State Board of Dentistry from 1990-1996, by Gov. Stan Stephens. Scott was the Board Chairman in 1995. During his tenure, Dr. Erler also served as a Western Regional Board Examiner, testing dental candidates throughout the west. He is currently a member of the Academy of General Dentistry.