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Doctors Network

In the heart of the midwest, South Dakota’s temperatures can swing from a dry 100 degrees down to a breezy 60 before you can say "Mount Rushmore!" Whether it’s too hot to leave the house or you’re stuck in the middle of a snowstorm, staying hydrated is key to living a happy and healthy life. When it comes to oral health, water is especially essential. A drink of water can wash away food particles and bacteria on the teeth and gums, and moisturize the mouth—two things that promote stronger, healthier teeth. No matter how chiseled your features, a little more water a day can go a long way.

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Doctors Network

Few South Dakotans can resist the tempting, carbonated delight of a pop at lunch or dinner. Yet, while drinking pop may be a time-honored tradition, sugary drinks are your teeth’s worst enemy! Drinking pop leads to more cavities and damage to fillings you may already have. Despite common opinions, sugar-free soda isn’t any better. Still acidic, even sugar-free soda can lead to the erosion of tooth enamel, higher tooth sensitivity, and an increased level of bacteria in your mouth. We wouldn’t dare tell a midwesterner not to drink pop, but we would suggest cutting back when you can. For a great alternative, try sugar-free gum!

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Doctors Network

Finding a great local dentist shouldn’t feel like a trek to White Butte! If you struggle with booking dental appointments, or can’t seem to find a good dentist in your area, stop doing dental care the hard way and use Doctors Network. With a low monthly subscription, you can access hundreds of local dentists and compare them based on price, ratings, experience, qualifications, treatments offered, and more! If you want to find quality dental care without the financial stress or health care complications, join the network today!

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  • location
    Black Hills Area Dental
    200 Federal Ave, Rapid City, SD 57702 
    10.11 miles near Piedmont
    phone

    (605) 348-4657

    Who is Dr. Bart Samuelson DDS?
    view full bio

    Dr. Bart Samuelson, a proud South Dakota native, graduated from Philip High School in 1989. He embraced his love for dentistry by attending the University of South Dakota, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene in 1993. After spending seven years as a Dental Hygienist in Rapid City, his desire to enhance his community service and advance his career led him to the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. He realized his ambition of becoming a Doctor of Dental Surgery in 2006, graduating with exceptional academic achievements and numerous honors.

    Outside of his dental practice, Dr. Samuelson is an enthusiastic outdoor adventurer, enjoying activities year-round. He loves hunting, boating, snowmobiling, skiing, and even attempts snowboarding, as well as cruising through the breathtaking Black Hills on his motorcycle. A proud member of the Hamsters USA motorcycle club, he enjoys participating in charitable events like Bikers Against Bullies.

    While he enjoys his active lifestyle, Dr. Samuelson considers his family to be his greatest accomplishment. He lives in Spearfish, South Dakota, with his wonderful wife, Nicole, their son Ryker, and their triplet children, Joey, JerZee, and Brekken.

  • location
    Unkenholz Family Dental
    716 Quincy St., Rapid City, SD 57701 
    11.66 miles near Piedmont
    phone

    (605) 399-9000

    Who is Dr. Eric Unkenholz DDS?
    view full bio

    Dr. Eric Unkenholz was raised in Pierre, South Dakota. He began his academic journey at South Dakota State University, where he achieved both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Wildlife and Fisheries Science. After spending four years working as a biologist, Dr. Eric decided to shift his career and enrolled at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Juggling long commutes, PB&Js, and family life with three young children, he proudly graduated with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2008, achieving high honors.

    From 2008 to 2014, he practiced in a group setting before founding Unkenholz Family Dental. Driven by a deep commitment to his community and a passion for patient care, Dr. Eric has created a dental practice that prioritizes individualized treatment while fostering a fun and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

  • location
    Rapid City Smiles
    1801 Mt Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57701 
    12.19 miles near Piedmont
    phone

    (605) 716-7800

    Who is Dr. Dan Graves DMD?
    view full bio

    Originally from Mapleton, Utah, Dr. Dan Graves graduated from Brigham Young University before earning his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine. He has been working in dentistry since 2013, with previous experience in Valentine and Ainsworth, Nebraska, before relocating to Rapid City.

    Dr. Dan is skilled in a wide range of dental practices and is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and techniques to enhance patient care. He specializes in dental implants and orthodontics, along with comprehensive dentistry. He takes great satisfaction in watching his patients’ confidence and self-esteem grow as their smiles transform.

    Outside of his professional life, Dr. Dan enjoys a fulfilling family life with his wife and their four daughters. In his leisure time, he loves golfing, target shooting, woodworking, and participating in church activities.

Didn't find what you were looking for?

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deep cleaning with anethesia covered by united healthcare

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I have problems with gum problems and two missing teeth. 5404216293

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Periodontics and implant dentisty

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Can scaling and root planing help me reverse gum disease?

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In many cases, gingivitis can be reversed with scaling and root planing (known as deep cleaning) and a strict routine of good hygiene and preventative dental care. However, if the condition progresses into periodontitis, then it might no longer be reversible, and will have to be controlled through regular periodontal maintenance.

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What is scaling/root planing (Deep Cleaning)?

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Gingivitis marks the beginning of periodontal disease, and describes inflammation in the gums caused by excessive oral bacteria buildup (in the form of plaque and tartar). Because gingivitis occurs underneath the gums, routine dental cleaning won’t suffice to treat it. Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Then, your periodontist will smooth the roots of your teeth underneath the gums to discourage further oral bacteria buildup. As plaque and tartar accumulate on the roots, the buildup and resulting inflammation cause your gum tissues to recede slightly from your teeth. This creates deepening periodontal pockets where oral bacteria can continue to gather and multiply, worsening the infection and inflammation. Periodontal cleaning helps stop the infection by removing the films of plaque and tartar from your roots (scaling), and then smoothing their surfaces (planing) to inhibit bacterial buildup as your gums heal. In cases where gum disease has already developed, scaling and root planing should be followed by a strict schedule of checkups, cleanings, and periodontal maintenance. Your periodontist can prescribe appropriate treatment options, such as gingival grafting or pocket reduction surgery, to fortify your compromised tissues so you can recover from gum disease.

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It was so easy to find a doctor and make an appointment. I didn't have to take hours to call different offices and find out who takes my insurance and who doesn't.
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I'm a freelancer, so I can't buy insurance easily, so I always ended up paying a lot for doctors' visits. I signed up for a Doctors Network dental plan, and my dental cleanings cost only $25 now. If you don't have dental insurance I highly recommend it.
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I fell off my bike and chipped my front tooth. I was able to find and book an appointment online right away. Next time I need an appointment I'll try Doctors Network again.