General Dental Services in Rapid City, SD
The team at Dakota Family Dental works together to provide education and information regarding your condition, recommended treatment, and to answer any questions you may have. Call 605-343-0711 to make an appointment in our Rapid City, SD, office.
Preventive Dental Care
A good offense may be the best defense in sports, but it’s also the best defense against decay and gum disease. Routine brushing and flossing help, but it’s the office visits for preventive care that ensure ongoing oral health. Every six months, or as recommended by Dr. Friedman, you should come in for a thorough dental cleaning and exam. We will help you prevent dental problems and detect any that do occur early enough for swift intervention.
Sedation Dentistry
Patients who have a fear of the dentist sometimes require mild to moderate sedation during treatment. We want to do everything we can to make your experience in our office comfortable.
We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) for very mild calming. This is easy to administer and is eliminated from the body quickly. Oral conscious sedation through medication relaxes the patient without them losing consciousness. This may be through an anti-anxiety tablet, for example. If you take oral sedation, you will require someone to drive you to and from your appointment.
Fillings and Bonding
Dr. Friedman often uses composite fillings that closely resemble the color of your teeth. This material can also be used to correct gaps, chips, or gaps in the teeth. We also use amalgam fillings, made from a variety of materials. These fillings are very long lasting and less expensive than composite fillings.
Bridges & Dentures
Missing teeth must be replaced to eliminate larger dental problems in the future. Bridges close the gap and act like natural teeth. They adhere to the teeth adjacent to the gap with the replacement teeth acting as a “bridge” between them. Dentures also replace missing teeth. Partial dentures replace a section of teeth and full dentures replace all dentition. Both kinds of dentures are removable.
Veneers
Veneers are thin pieces of porcelain that are applied to the teeth to cover stains, correct misaligned or crooked teeth, or close gaps.
Other Treatments Include but Are Not Limited To:
- Inlays & Onlays
- Extractions
- TMJ evaluation and treatment
- Emergency Dental Care
- And More!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during a general dentistry exam?
Your dentist will perform a visual inspection of teeth, gums, and soft tissues; check for signs of decay or gum disease; take digital X-rays as needed; and review your medical and dental history. After the exam, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan.
How often should I schedule routine dental visits?
For most patients, twice-yearly (every six months) cleanings and exams are recommended to prevent cavities and gum disease. Patients with higher risk factors (e.g., history of periodontal issues) may benefit from more frequent visits.
What preventive services are included in general dentistry?
Preventive care typically includes professional cleanings (prophylaxis), fluoride treatments to strengthen enamel, sealants on molars to block decay, oral cancer screenings, and personalized oral hygiene instruction.
How safe are modern dental X-rays?
Digital dental radiographs emit very low levels of radiation—far below medical X-ray levels—and are considered safe for routine monitoring. Protective lead aprons and thyroid collars further minimize exposure.
What common treatments fall under general dentistry?
General dentists provide fillings (composite and amalgam), crowns and bridges, root canal therapy, tooth extractions, dentures (partial and full), and night guards for bruxism (teeth grinding).
Do you treat both children and adults?
Yes. General dentists are trained to care for patients of all ages—from toddlers to seniors—managing growth and development concerns in children and age-related issues in adults.
How should I prepare for my first dental appointment?
Bring your insurance information, a list of current medications, and any recent dental or medical records. Arrive a few minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork and discuss your oral health goals.
Which insurance plans do you accept, and what if I’m out-of-network?
We participate with most major commercial dental plans and Medicaid. If you’re out-of-network, we can provide a detailed superbill to help you seek reimbursement from your insurer.
What if I have dental anxiety or fear?
We offer a gentle approach, explain each step of treatment, and can provide nitrous oxide (laughing gas) or other relaxation aids to help you feel more comfortable during your visit.
How do you handle dental emergencies?
For urgent issues like severe toothaches, broken teeth, or knocked-out teeth, we reserve same-day appointments whenever possible. Call our office immediately, and we’ll triage your situation to provide prompt care.
Hours:
| Monday - Friday | 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM |
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