General & Family Dentistry

As your general and family dentist, we can treat your entire family! We see patients of all ages and love working with families. Whether you need care for your one-year-old child or 99-year-old grandmother, we can provide the dental care you and your loved ones deserve.

How are we able to provide so many amazing treatments to so many wonderful patients? It’s easy when you have a dedicated dental team like your friends here at Ponderosa Dental Group! We combine the latest and greatest in dental technology with expertise in all branches of dentistry, from pediatrics to orthodontics.

There’s no need to wait another day to get the healthy and happy smiles you and your family have always wanted! Contact our office and schedule your appointment.

The General and Family Dentistry We Offer

When you step through our office doors, we want your family to feel like our own. That is why Ponderosa Dental Group takes care of all your general dentistry needs.

What is general dentistry exactly? By the time we reach age 12, our mouths are nearing their final changes, and it is time to focus on preventative care that will maintain a healthy and happy smile for years to come.

Some of the most effective preventative treatments are:

Dental Exams and Cleanings

Dental exams and cleanings should be done twice a year. Set your appointments for every six months to keep good oral health. The oral cancer check is usually done during your dental exam and cleaning appointments. Early detection is key to a good outcome!

Periodontal Treatment

Periodontal disease (also known as gum disease) can lead to bone loss. We have treatments available to help stop gum disease!

Fillings and Crowns

These restorative treatments are essential for repairing damaged teeth and protecting your oral health.

Laser Dentistry (Soft Tissue Laser)

To aid in treating gum reshaping and periodontal therapy, laser dentistry represents one of the most significant advancements in modern dental care. Using gentle, precise laser energy, we can perform a variety of soft tissue procedures with greater comfort and faster healing compared to traditional methods.

Our soft tissue laser allows us to contour gum lines, remove bacteria from periodontal pockets, and treat cold sores or ulcers, all with minimal discomfort. Most patients experience less post-operative swelling and require fewer or no sutures.

Laser dentistry also reduces the need for anesthesia in many cases, making it an excellent option for patients who prefer a more comfortable, less invasive approach. The result is a cleaner, faster, and more precise treatment experience that supports your comfort and overall healing.

Benefits of Soft Tissue Laser Dentistry:

• Minimal bleeding and faster recovery times
• Reduced need for anesthesia
• Lower risk of infection due to the sterilization effect
• Precise targeting of treatment areas without harming surrounding tissue
• Enhanced comfort during and after the procedure

From gum reshaping to periodontal therapy, laser dentistry helps us deliver beautiful results with a gentle touch.

Dental Implants

Missing teeth can affect not only your appearance but also your ability to eat, speak, and maintain proper jaw alignment. Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they replicate the function and structure of a natural tooth from root to crown.

Each implant consists of a titanium post that integrates with your jawbone to provide a stable foundation for a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture.

Advantages of Dental Implants:

• Restores chewing strength and function
• Prevents bone loss and facial sagging
• Protects surrounding teeth
• Looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth
• Supports a long-lasting smile with proper care

With today’s advanced planning tools, including digital imaging and 3D cone beam scanning, we can place implants with exceptional precision and predictability. The result is a durable, lifelike restoration that enhances both the appearance and health of your smile.

Extractions

While we make every effort to preserve your natural teeth, sometimes a tooth must be removed to protect your overall oral health. Extractions may be necessary for teeth that are severely decayed, infected, fractured, or impacted.

Our approach to tooth extraction focuses on patient comfort and gentle precision. Using advanced techniques and anesthesia options, we ensure your experience is as stress-free as possible. For complex cases, such as wisdom tooth removal, we use digital imaging and cone beam CT technology to plan the safest, most conservative approach.

After extraction, we’ll discuss options for tooth replacement, such as implants or bridges, to maintain your bite alignment and prevent shifting of neighboring teeth. Healing is carefully monitored, and you’ll experience a smooth recovery with proper aftercare.

Reasons for Tooth Extraction:

• Severe decay or infection that cannot be restored
• Advanced gum disease affecting tooth stability
• Impacted or partially erupted wisdom teeth
• Fractures below the gumline
• Preparation for orthodontic treatment or prosthetics

By combining a gentle touch with advanced technology, we make extractions as comfortable and efficient as possible while planning for your long-term dental health.

Root Canals

When the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed, a root canal can save the tooth and relieve pain. Modern root canal therapy is far more comfortable than many people imagine, very similar to getting a standard filling.

During the procedure, we remove the infected tissue from within the tooth, clean and disinfect the root canals, and seal the space with a durable material to prevent reinfection. A crown is typically placed afterward to restore strength and protect the tooth from future damage.

With today’s technology, including digital imaging and advanced rotary instruments, root canal treatments can often be completed quickly and efficiently, preserving your natural tooth and avoiding the need for extraction.

Signs You May Need a Root Canal:

• Persistent tooth pain or sensitivity
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth
• Pimple-like bump on the gum near the affected tooth

Root canals not only alleviate pain but also protect your smile’s structure and appearance, allowing you to chew and speak comfortably again.

If you’re looking for truly compassionate and comprehensive dental care in Missoula, MT, our office is the place for you! Here are just a few examples of the wonderful treatments we can provide your family, no matter if they are the newest members or those in their golden years.

Children’s Dentistry

Growing children have special oral health needs, so it is important to have a dentist with experience and training specific to them. We want to create good dental experiences for your children, to help avoid dental fears and build strong life-long oral health habits.

Some of our pediatric treatments can include:

• Routine cleanings to keep your child’s teeth and gums healthy
• Dental checkups to monitor oral health, like bite strength and jaw development
• Dental sealants to help protect against cavities and reduce the risk of needing a tooth extraction
• Fluoride treatments to build up plaque resistance and strengthen teeth

Elderly Dental Care 

It is not easy growing older; there are a lot of physical changes our bodies undergo. Some of the most noticeable changes occur in our oral health needs—after all, our mouths are incredibly hardworking!

From chewing and speaking to even keeping our facial and jaw muscles strong, our mouths play an incredibly vital and important role in our daily lives. This is why our office has everything you and your loved ones need to maintain a healthy smile well into your golden years!

The most popular services for senior patients include:

• Dentures: We offer full or partial dentures, allowing you to replace any number of missing teeth so you can chew, speak clearly, and enjoy all the health benefits of a new and beautiful smile.
• Implant-Supported Dentures: The most natural-looking and feeling dentures that provide all the functions of your natural teeth. Better yet, they don’t require any additional maintenance but are simply brushed and flossed like your original teeth.
• Advanced Dental Cleanings: Multiple studies have shown that you have a 70% chance of developing gum disease if you are 60 years old or older. That doesn’t have to be the case, thanks to our high-tech dental cleaning, which uses an AMD Picasso Clario laser to remove bacteria and gum disease with unparalleled precision.

We Work with Your Schedule

We appreciate that modern life is extremely hectic; juggling work schedules, school projects, and family commitments is difficult. When every day is “go go go!” adding a dentist appointment to the calendar can seem all but impossible.

But not anymore! Here at Ponderosa Dental Group, we are committed to working around your family’s schedule to provide them with the treatments they need so they can get the care they deserve. Call now to protect your family’s oral health!

What Our Dental Office Has to Offer

Modern dentistry allows us to detect, diagnose, and treat dental concerns with greater precision and comfort than ever before. Our office uses state-of-the-art digital tools designed to improve accuracy, minimize radiation exposure, and make your experience seamless from start to finish.

• Digital X-Rays: Digital X-rays are an essential part of preventive and diagnostic dental care. They provide instant, high-resolution images that we can view together on a chairside monitor. This allows us to spot small areas of decay, infections, bone loss, and other changes before they become bigger problems.
• Ranaorex Imaging: Ranaorex technology enhances diagnostic clarity and helps us visualize detailed structures of your teeth and jaw with remarkable accuracy.
• Digital Scanner: If you’ve ever had a traditional dental impression taken, you probably remember the bulky trays and sticky materials. Our digital scanner replaces that process entirely. Using a small handheld wand, we capture detailed, three-dimensional images of your teeth and bite in just a few minutes—no mess, no discomfort.
• iTero Scanner: The iTero digital scanner takes precision a step further. Its advanced imaging technology allows us to create an exact 3D model of your teeth and gums, which we can use for Invisalign® treatment planning, same-day restorations, and digital smile simulations.
• Cone Beam CT Scanner: For more complex cases, our Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scanner provides a comprehensive, 3D view of your teeth, jawbone, sinuses, and surrounding structures.

This level of detail is invaluable for planning procedures like dental implants, extractions, and root canal treatments, ensuring the safest and most predictable outcomes.

Want to Know More About General Dentistry?

How often should I visit the dentist?

Most patients benefit from visiting the dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. However, if you have gum disease, frequent decay, or other ongoing conditions, we may recommend more frequent visits to help maintain your oral health.

What is a general dentist?

A general dentist provides comprehensive care focused on prevention, diagnosis, and routine treatment—this is the foundation for lifelong oral health. As a general practice, we manage most dental needs in-house to ensure seamless care.

Are digital X-rays and scanners safe?

Yes. Digital X-rays use significantly less radiation than traditional film, and all of our imaging equipment is designed to meet or exceed safety standards. Our digital scanners are non-invasive, emit no radiation, and enhance accuracy for treatment planning.

What can I expect during my first visit?

During your first appointment, we’ll review your dental and medical history, take necessary digital images, and perform a comprehensive exam. You’ll have time to discuss any concerns or goals you have for your smile, and we’ll create a personalized care plan that fits your needs.

How do I know if I need more than a routine cleaning?

If you’re experiencing bleeding gums, sensitivity, persistent bad breath, or changes in how your teeth fit together, you may need additional care such as periodontal therapy or restorative treatment. During your visit, we’ll evaluate your oral health and discuss the best next steps.

Is treatment covered by my insurance?

Our office is staffed with born-and-bred Montanans, and we care about providing brilliant smiles to this wonderful community. To make this possible, we work with many different insurance companies, accept all major credit cards, and even offer our own in-house dental plan.

A Dental Office for All Your Dental Needs

At Ponderosa Dental Group, we cannot wait to meet you! Our family welcomes yours and can’t wait to start working together to create the healthy and happy smile you will cherish for years to come.

From pediatric checkups and dental cleanings to dentures, we are here to help. Call today to schedule your appointment!