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Doctors Network

In Big Sky Country, oral health is just as important as a good pair of boots. Painful or missing teeth can make it nearly impossible to chomp down on a bison burger, or enjoy one of the state’s famous huckleberry pies. What’s more, poor oral health can lead to health problems ranging from gum disease to heart failure! Think about it this way—not maintaining your oral health now is like not filling up your tank before driving on the I-90. Ignoring your teeth will lead to series issues down the line. So, contact your dentist today to learn how you can maintain your teeth daily to keep them strong and healthy for life.

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Doctors Network

Just like how you plow the road after a big snow storm to remove ice and debris, brushing your teeth twice a day is vital for removing plaque. For a bright, healthy smile, you need to clear the bad stuff out of the way. Brushing and flossing daily is the best thing you can do for maintaining your smile for life, and it just takes a few minutes! For more impact, use mouthwash, eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking, and, of course, schedule a visit with your dentist at least twice per year.

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For Montanans who frequently find themselves tumbling off bulls, enjoying frigid rides on their snowmobile, soaring over the Yellowstone River rapids in a raft, or whatever other outdoor adventures the Big Sky Country offers, having access to great-quality, affordable dental care is a must! With Doctors Network, if you chip a tooth (or completely knock one out), you can receive discounted local care from a world-class dentist whenever and wherever you want. Life shouldn’t feel like you’re walking on eggshells. Live life how you want to live it knowing that your teeth can always get the care they need. Join the network today to see how easy finding dental care can be.

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  • location
    MT West Dentist
    200 W Railroad Ave, Plains, MT 59859 
    0.04 miles near Plains
    phone

    (406) 215-4705

    Who is Dr. Blake Sherwood DMD?
    view full bio

    Dr. Blake Sherwood has always felt that giving back to his community was of the utmost importance. While attending Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Sherwood earned a scholarship from the U.S. Air Force that gave him the opportunity to receive advanced dental training and give back to his country. After graduating with honors, Dr. Sherwood went to Maxwell Air Force Base to complete officer training, then completed a one-year dental residency program at Barksdale AFB. During this time he was trained in orthodontics, laser surgery techniques, oral sleep appliance therapy, CBCT implementation, same-day crown delivery, bone graft placement and management, implant placement and restoration, periodontal surgery, clear-tray aligner orthodontics, Invisalign, and moderate sedation techniques.

    Dr. Sherwood also spent time at Whiteman AFB where he worked with an Air Force dental team that taught him the importance of patient safety and comfort. He carries those lessons with him to this day, using them as the foundation for his own practice. Today, Dr. Sherwood enjoys treating patients in the Plains area and getting involved with his community.

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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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Casey G.
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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Rebecca B.
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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Malik C.
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.