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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

In the City of Presidents, you can’t fit in with the John F. Kennedys, Jimmy Carters, Ronald Reagans, or Bill Clintons without a charismatic grin. The best smiles make great impressions. They put people at ease and make it easy for others to instantly connect with you. Even for those too stern to smile (Lyndon Johnson, we’re looking at you!), healthy, strong teeth are still a necessity. Seeing your dentist regularly for professional cleanings can help prevent serious oral health issues from arising, such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Call your dentist today to schedule your next appointment, and mark it on the calendar so you don’t forget! As the saying goes, "Ask not what your teeth can do for you, ask what you can do for your teeth." Or something like that.

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Doctors Network

With its thriving Historic Commercial District dating back to the late 19th century, Rapid City locals know how important it is to preserve what matters. That doesn’t just apply to iconic architecture, but to oral health too! Building your oral care routine with the foundations of daily brushing and flossing is key to having a strong, lasting smile. In addition to that, limiting sugary snacks and drinking plenty of water are other great habits to consider. For an extra push in the right direction, use mouthwash after brushing to keep your breath minty fresh. When you put in the work, your smile can stay just as vibrant as Rapid City’s history.

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Doctors Network

Known as the Gateway to the Black Hills, Rapid City has dozens of natural wonders to explore, spanning from Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park to Dinosaur Park and more. With so much to explore, the last thing you need is a toothache slowing you down. Whether it takes up your time with trips to the dentist, eats away at your vacation savings, makes eating your favorite foods a pain, or a combination of all three, poor oral health is always a nuisance. For South Dakotans looking for a way to make dental care easier, there’s Doctors Network. For a low monthly fee, network members gain access to major discounts on dental care, allowing you to stay on top of your oral health without breaking the bank. Sign up today so you have more time and money to explore the Star of the West later.

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  • location
    Rapid City Smiles
    1801 Mt Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57701 
    0.65 miles near Rapid City
    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.

  • location
    Unkenholz Family Dental
    716 Quincy St., Rapid City, SD 57701 
    0.7 miles near Rapid City
    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
    Black Hills Area Dental
    200 Federal Ave, Rapid City, SD 57702 
    2.83 miles near Rapid City
    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.

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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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