Dental Services

General, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry

Brush,

Floss,

Smile!

LOCATION
2006 Mt. Rushmore Rd., Ste. 1 • Rapid City, SD 57701

OFFICE HOURS
Monday – Thursday

8:20 AM – 5:00 PM
 

Crowns & Bridges

Dental crownsCrowns cover an entire tooth and restore teeth that have broken from many causes; they protect the tooth and minimize the chances the tooth will break again.  There are three different types of crowns; 1) Gold crowns, 2) Porcelain fused to metal crowns, and 3) All porcelain crowns.

  • Gold Crowns are mostly used in the back of the mouth where esthetics may not be as much of a concern. These crowns are solid metal and are less likely to chip or break under the heavy chewing forces in the back of the mouth.
  • Porcelain Fused to Metal Crowns are used in areas where more strength is needed, but better esthetics is needed or desired. This may be the very back teeth, the side teeth and in some cases in the front teeth.
  • All Porcelain Crowns are very esthetic and most like a natural tooth. Because of their outstanding appearance they are most often used in the front part of the mouth where esthetics is most critical.

Dental BridgesBridges are when one or more teeth are missing.  A crown is placed on the tooth at each end and a fake tooth or teeth are in the middle.  The bridge is cemented to the teeth on either side.  This form of replacing teeth has been a wonderful way for people to replace teeth without having something that moves around when they chew, speak or laugh.

Veneers

Veneers - DentalVeneers are thin custom made shells made of tooth colored materials that are bonded to the front side of the front teeth.  Veneers can be made of porcelain or tooth colored plastic.

Porcelain veneers are used to cover gaps in the front teeth, or to cover teeth that are discolored, stained, chipped, poorly shaped, or even crooked.  They are conservative restorations that look beautiful and natural, without the dark lines around the gums sometimes seen with porcelain fused to metal crowns.  These porcelain veneers can last from 5 – 20 years.  Regular checkups and great oral hygiene help these restorations stay looking good for a much longer time.  These restorations are absolutely stunning and can be life changing!  They are comfortable, natural looking and strong.

Composite (tooth colored plastic) veneers are used in much the same way as porcelain.  These veneers are intended as long term temporaries.  They can look as nice as porcelain, but are made of plastic so tend to pick up stain and break more easily than porcelain.  These are great when an immediate restoration is needed, or for kids until their teeth are completely erupted and porcelain veneers can be placed.

Complete & Partial Dentures

Complete Dentures:

Dentures are removable appliances replacing all of the teeth.  Dentures are usually made of a pink plastic base with porcelain or plastic teeth.

Most people dislike dentures for the following reasons:

  • Dentures move around when eating causing food to get caught under the plastic base.
  • When eating or speaking dentures occasionally and unpredictably can come loose causing embarrassment.
  • Sore spots can be caused by movement of the denture.
  • Upper dentures can cause gagging problems due to the part on the roof of the mouth.
  • The thick plastic on the roof of the mouth can affect ones speech by impinging on the tongue.
  • The plastic denture base can cause the face to seem “puffy” and unnatural.
  • Normal foods can be difficult to eat because the plastic covering the oral tissues adversely affecting taste.
  • Dentures can cause a funny taste or bad breath due to the bacteria buildup. Red burning tissues under the denture due to “yeast” infection.

We find that most of these problems can be routinely solved.  For some people corrections can be made to existing dentures.  Sometimes it is necessary to make a new appliance.  In some cases implants are the best option.

Regardless of which solution works for you, we find that people have to live with the crippling effects of dentures can dramatically improve the quality of their life.  We feel that our patients deserve the finest quality of life we can give them.

Partial Dentures

Partial Dentures are removable appliances replacing a few of the teeth.  Partial Dentures are usually made of a metal framework that hooks to the remaining teeth, and a pink plastic base with porcelain or plastic teeth.  This affordable way of replacing teeth is preferred by many people.

Many of the problems and things that people dislike about partial dentures are similar to those of complete dentures.  In addition, partial dentures have metal clasps that put additional pressure that increases the potential of the teeth breaking over time.

Bleaching/Whitening

The whitening process, also called “bleaching” of your teeth is very easy.  Many of us are dissatisfied with the color of our teeth.  Some people are born with naturally dark or yellow teeth, while others notice their teeth become dull with age.  There are many over-the-counter products on the market, however most are not tested and generally do not work as well as those prescribed by your dentist.  Professional whitening services offered through our office are non-abrasive, safe and approved by the American Dental Association.  They also whiten your teeth internally.  We make custom trays specifically to fit your teeth to carry the whitening gel.  These very thin trays are worn for 1-2 hours each day for a 1-2 weeks until your teeth are satisfactorily whitened.  The dramatic results last for an extended period of time.  Saving your whitening trays allows you the ability to touch up your smile as you wish.  Your own natural teeth are an important asset to both your physical health and your self-image.

A healthy, sparkling smile is important at any age; it’s never too late to renew your smile!

Root Canals

Modern root canal techniques may save more teeth than any other dental procedure.  Long term success rates are 85-95% for this procedure.  Advancements have made root canals remarkably quick and painless with a high level of long-term success.

Root Canals​A small hole is made in the biting surface or back of the tooth.  All of the nerve tissue is removed and any infection is cleaned away.  Then a pink rubbery filling material is placed in the canal to seal out further infection, this is the end of the root canal.  Then a big filling (called buildup) and crown are done to reinforce the tooth, this completes the procedure on the tooth.  This is done with local anesthesia and sometimes sedation for the apprehensive patient.  There is usually no pain during or after the procedure.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis is an infection of the gums.  It is a milder and reversible form of periodontal disease.  Evidence of gingivitis is red, swollen, tender gums that are likely to bleed easily.  Gingivitis can usually be eliminated by a thorough professional cleaning and daily brushing & flossing.

Gum DiseasePreventing and treating gingivitis in its early stages are the best ways to keep your smile healthy.  Think of good oral care as part of a healthy lifestyle.  We look forward to working with you as you choose an overall healthier body and smile.

Gingivitis may lead to more serious, destructive forms of periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and bone surrounding the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.  It is caused by bacteria in the mouth called plaque.  Periodontal disease affects 3 out of 4 adults.  Periodontal disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, low birth weight babies, lung disease, strokes, premature birth and birth defects.

Periodontal disease is not usually accompanied by pain and frequently develops slowly.  It is normally characterized by red, puffy, bleeding gums.  Other symptoms may include persistent bad breath or bad taste; pus; gums that have pulled away from the teeth.

If detected in the early stages, periodontal disease can be treated and controlled. Think of good oral care as part of a healthy lifestyle.  We look forward to working with you as you choose an overall healthier body and smile.


More info on Periodontal Disease:

Good oral health is desirable, not only for the teeth and gums, but also for general health and longevity.  Periodontal disease has been linked to preterm, low-birth weight babies, heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and peptic ulcers.

Preterm, low birth weight babies

Pregnant women with periodontal disease are 7.5 times more likely to have a premature, low birth weight baby.

Prostaglandin, an enzyme produced during periodontal disease, is the same enzyme that pregnant women produce to dilate the cervix and induce labor.  When prostaglandin enters the blood stream from the gingival tissues, before the baby is due, it can induce premature delivery.  Oral bacteria also can enter the blood stream, traveling to the uterus and potentially create problems for the fetus.

Babies born early are often of low birth weight, weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces.  Low birth weight babies are prone to severe physical problems.  If controlling periodontal disease in pregnant women proves to reduce the incidence of preterm, low birth weight babies, the high financial and emotional burden of these problems would also be reduced.

Heart Disease

Heart disease took nearly a half million lives in the United States in 1997.  It is the largest, single killer of Americans, responsible for 20% of all deaths.  Periodontal disease is linked to cardiovascular disease, although it has not been demonstrated as a direct cause of heart attacks.

Several theories have been suggested to explain this link.  For example, oral bacteria may enter the blood stream and directly infect the lining of blood vessels, leading to heart attack or stroke.  The toxins associated with periodontal disease are linked to the accumulation of fatty deposits on blood-vessel walls and may trigger blood clot formation.  Another theory suggests that greater quantities of pro-inflammatory substances are secreted as a result of gum disease, causing not only bone loss around the teeth, but also the inflammation associated with atherosclerosis.  Research indicates a connection between good periodontal health and the reduction of cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Lung disease

Billions of dollars are spent each year in the U.S. treating respiratory infections.  Bacteria from the secretions in the nose and mouth cause bacterial pneumonia.  Teeth and periodontal tissues may serve as reservoirs for respiratory infection, with poor oral hygiene as a risk factor for aspiration of bacteria.  Good oral hygiene is a key factor in reducing the incidence of respiratory infection in high-risk subjects.

Diabetes

We see the two-way street effect with diabetes and periodontal disease.  Periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar.

Severe periodontal disease can increase blood sugar, contributing to increased periods of time when the body functions with a high blood sugar. This puts diabetics at increased risk for diabetic complications. Thus, diabetics who have periodontal disease should be treated to eliminate the periodontal infection.

Ulcers

Bacteria that cause ulcers are called heliocobacter pylori.  This bacteria is found in saliva and plaque.  The mouth may be a prime breeding ground for the bacteria that cause ulcers.  If ulcers have been treated, and then return, it may be that periodontal pockets are harboring heliocobacter pylori bacteria.

Osteoporosis

Researchers are currently investigating possible links between periodontal disease and osteoporosis.  It may be possible say researchers, to harness the information gathered in dental exams for use an early warning of osteoporosis.  Adequate calcium and estrogen levels, long recognized as important components in the prevention of osteoporosis, are also being studied as they relate to periodontal disease.  Sodium fluoride, long recognized for building strong teeth, can be a powerful weapon in the fight against osteoporosis.

All current studies seem to clearly point to one idea:  Dental health is not independent of total body health, but fully involved with it.

Oral Surgery

Oral surgery refers to any kind of surgery in the mouth.  Several areas of surgery are familiar to most people.  Most people are familiar with wisdom teeth.  Extracting other teeth, biopsies, periodontal (gum) surgeries are other forms of Oral Surgery.

Wisdom Teeth and Other Extractions

wisdom teethWisdom teeth, also called third molars, are called that because they usually start to erupt into the mouth between 16 – 21 years old.  As most parents know, this is the age when our children become very “wise” and we become “not so wise,” hence the name “Wisdom Teeth.”  Very few people have enough room for the wisdom teeth, or the wisdom teeth are so far towards the back that people have a difficult time keeping them clean.  In most cases it is better to just remove the wisdom teeth.  The younger you are when the wisdom teeth are removed the easier it is.  Bone is not as hard, the roots of the wisdom teeth are often not as developed, and most people heal faster and better when they are younger.

Often times it is necessary to remove other teeth because they are broken beyond repair, infected, periodontal (gum) disease, or finances.  Once a tooth is removed the bone continues to resorb, similar to what happens to someone in a wheelchair that cannot use their legs, the muscle atrophies because of disuse.

This resorbtion is much more critical when a person has complete dentures.  As the bone continues to resorb and causes your denture not to fit.  For a while relining the denture will help.  At a certain point there is not enough bone to hold the dentures even if you reline them.  At this point dentures will move around causing sore spots and difficulty when you speak, eat, laugh, drink, etc.  Many people do not feel confident in public.  They may eat softer food, eat more slowly, hold their hand over their mouth, not speak in public, or, at the more severe extents they may avoid public contact with people, especially if there will be food involved.

Biopsies

Oral cancer can be very serious.  For that reason Dr Lynch is very aggressive when he sees something that is not normal.  Some lesions can be checked using a brush biopsy like a pap=smear, this method is 95% accurate in finding oral cancer.  There are some lesions that must be removed with a scalpel.  These are sent to be checked under a microscope.  Fortunately most lesions are not cancerous, but it is important to have them checked.

Periodontal (Gum) Surgery

Periodontal surgery helps improve the health of the gums by reshaping where the tissue sits on the teeth or smoothes the bone.  In some cases gum surgery can reposition the gum tissue so teeth look more normal or cover the root surface of the teeth.  Periodontal surgery can also help prepare the bone and gums for implant placement.

Silver Fillings

Dental FIllingsSilver fillings have been used for over a hundred years to fill teeth with cavities.  Millions of teeth have been saved that might not have been able to be fixed before silver fillings.  Silver fillings have offered an affordable way to fix teeth that would have required gold fillings, inlays or gold crowns or would have been extracted prior to that.

Many people prefer the esthetics of tooth colored fillings now rather than silver fillings.  Some people are concerned about that silver fillings may be dangerous.  ADA.org has information that indicates that there is no scientific evidence showing that silver fillings are dangerous.

 

Teeth in a Day

Teeth in a Day  - Rapid City DentistIf you are living with uncomfortable dentures, loose or missing teeth, or struggling with a failed crown or bridge, fixed Teeth in a Day could be an option for you.

The Teeth in a Day technique provides patients who have failing teeth, or total tooth loss, with a full arch of fixed, temporary teeth on the same day. This first set of teeth is designed to help speed up the healing process and ensures patients can eat and be free from their dentures on the day of implant placement. They are replaced with a permanent solution at a later date.

The replacement teeth are usually supported by a minimum of four dental implants. The number of implants used will depend on the needs of the patient and whether a fixed denture or a bridge is required. The implants are strategically placed in areas of the jaw where the bone is denser and stronger.

 

 

Implants

Have you lost a tooth?  All your teeth?  Unfortunately that happens!  The best and most modern way to have the smile, comfort and dependability you have always wanted is with one of dentistry’s most advanced technology; dental implants.   A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that replaces the original tooth root that may have been damaged or lost due to various conditions.

Dental ImplantsDental implants are anchored to the jaw.  The replacement tooth, crown, bridge or denture is attached to the implant.  The new tooth or bridge does not rely on neighboring teeth for support.  Implants look and feel like natural teeth, they give you total self assurance.

You will have a big, healthy, happy smile.  Dental implants will allow you to speak, eat, sing, kiss…  in other words, do everything you want.   You can smile with confidence!

Dental Implants replace the teeth you wish you never lost!

Learn more about dental implants:

There are four major kinds of dental implants.  Each has advantages and disadvantages.  Only a proper evaluation of your situation and needs can determine which will work for you.

Mini Dental Implants

Mini Dental Implants are ultra-small diameter (1.8 millimeter width) biocompatible titanium alloy implant screws.  This FDA approved dental product represents the latest advancement in reconstructive dentistry.

Mini Dental Implants offer a solution for missing teeth or poorly fitting dentures when there is inadequate bone for conventional implants.  The head of the mini implant is shaped like a ball.  The denture has a rubber O-ring that snaps over the head of the implant and holds the denture gently over the gum tissue.

One-Piece Dental Implants

BioHorizons Maximus OS Dental Implants are one piece implants specifically indicated for long-term denture stabilization.  This type of implant system is intended for denture stabilization and not really for supporting the denture by themselves like a traditional implant.

The head of the Maximus implants can be shaped like a ball to place an O-ring in the denture to stabilize the denture, or shaped to place a crown.  These implants are more than 1.5 times as thick as a mini-implant, giving them more strength.

Traditional Dental Implants

BioHorizons Maestro Dental Implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth the look, feel and function like natural teeth.  The person regains the ability to eat almost anything and can smile with confidence.

Implants are tiny biocompatible titanium posts placed into the jawbone.  The bone bonds with the titanium to create a s strong foundation for artificial teeth.

Dental implants can replace a single tooth with a crown, several teeth using multiple implants and a bridge, or multiple implants can be attached to a bar so a denture will snap on and hold very tightly.

Subperiosteal Implants

This type of specialized implant is custom made to fit the jawbone of the individual.  Using a CT Scan and a specialized computer program it is possible to make the custom fitted implant.  The implant is placed on top of the jawbone when other kinds of implants may not work for you.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry is aimed at restoring the teeth to their original beauty.  We can improve your existing teeth to a truly natural and appealing appearance, whether they are in the front or back of your mouth.

Cosmetic dentistry and adhesion have changed dentistry forever, and we are proud to offer you these most exciting and advanced techniques.  Our role as esthetic dentists is to provide the most pleasing and functional smile possible for our patients.

Cosmetic Dentistry is a general term used to describe a whole series of dental procedures designed to improve how your smile looks.  Veneers are used to correct tooth color, crowded teeth and broken, worn or chipped teeth.  Tooth colored fillings restore decayed teeth to their natural appearance.  Whitening / bleaching is done to help lighten teeth that are naturally dark or yellow, or have picked up stain and discolored over time.  Crowns protect teeth with very large fillings, broken teeth, or teeth that have had root canals and restore them to look more like natural teeth.

Tooth Colored Fillings

Tooth Colored FillingsTooth colored fillings, also called composites, are bonded restorations directly to your teeth.  This allows these types of restorations to be beautiful and helpful in restoring strength to your teeth.  Tooth colored fillings can be more conservative while providing your dental care.  With silver fillings we have to eliminate good tooth structure to provide retention for fillings that were only pressed into a cavity preparation without any seal or adhesion

Sedation Dentistry

The standard of treating patients using sedation was set by physicians in the U.S. years ago.  It is very common for patients to be sedated for surgery on knees, feet, wrists, ears, noses, or practically anything else.  Most fearful patients have no problem being sedated for dental treatment.  Sedation for certain types of dental care, especially wisdom teeth, has been used for many years.  Sedation makes long, involved dental care much easier to tolerate.

Types of Sedation Dentistry:

Sedation DentistryNitrous Oxide

 Form:       Gas

Description:  Nitrous Oxide is the lightest form of sedation, but for many people it is effective enough.  Nitrous Oxide dates back to the 1860’s and is one of the oldest dental sedatives.  It is commonly referred to as “laughing gas” and is a gas breathed through a mask placed over the nose.  Nitrous Oxide is carefully mixed with oxygen by a special dispenser designed to be used in dentistry.  Effectiveness and safety have been proven time and again.  Nitrous Oxide is the ideal sedation for short dental treatment.  There is no residual effect from the Nitrous Oxide, allowing you to safely drive yourself to and from the dental office.

Oral Sedation

 Form:       Pill

Description:  Oral sedation is much more effective than Nitrous Oxide, and is one of the newest methods to control fear and anxiety in dentistry.  In the last 10 years pharmacological developments have given dentists drugs that give a profound state of relaxation.  It results in a significantly reduced sense of awareness during your appointment.  Many patients have little or no memory of the dental procedures.  Oral sedation requires the longest amount of time for the medications to take effect; however, these medications have proven to be very safe.  You must have a responsible adult drive you to and from the dental office, and you will require supervision by a responsible adult for several hours after your appointment.  This sedative technique is very well received by patients

Intravenous Sedation

Form:       Liquid

Description:  Intravenous sedation is the most advanced sedative technique available in the dental office today.  It is more effective than oral sedation and takes effect very quickly.  IV sedation is the most comprehensive form of control pain and anxiety in dentistry, dating back to the 1960’s.  The drugs are administered into a vein through a tube.  You must have a responsible adult drive you to and from the dental office, and you will require supervision by a responsible adult for several hours after your appointment.  (This form of sedation is not available in our office.)

Hospital Dentistry

Form:       Gas / Liquid

Description:   This technique is administered in the hospital or surgery center by an anesthesiologist.  You are put completely asleep and drugs are administered by IV and gas while the anesthesiologist controls your breathing.  This form of anesthesia is best for persons with significant medical problems, developmental disabilities such that they cannot cooperate in a routine dental setting, or with extreme phobias that cannot be managed with one of the forms of sedation available in a dental office.  Most hospital dentistry done under general anesthesia is done on an outpatient basis.  You must have a responsible adult drive you to and from the dental office, and you will require supervision by a responsible adult for several hours after your appointment.  Dr Lynch has been on staff at Rapid City Regional Hospital since 1988.

Bonding

Adhesive dentistry, also called bonding, allows us to bond restorations directly to your teeth.  This allows these types of restorations to be beautiful and helpful in restoring strength to your teeth.  Bonding allows us to be much more conservative while providing your dental care.  With silver fillings we have to eliminate good tooth structure to provide retention for fillings that were only pressed into a cavity preparation without any seal or adhesion.

Dental BondingBonding is a general term used to “bond” a material to a tooth.  There are several different dental techniques that would fall under the general term of “bonding.”  Veneers are bonded to the front of a tooth to make your teeth look nicer.  Certain kinds of Crowns are bonded to teeth.  Tooth colored fillings are bonded to the tooth.  Sealants protect the teeth from getting cavities and are bonded to the biting surface of the tooth.

Sealants

Sealants for TeethA sealant is a plastic material that is applied to the biting surface of the back teeth.  When a tooth develops, small grooves in the biting surface form.  Bacteria (plaque) and food can form acids that cause cavities in the depth of the grooves.  Sealants are bonded to the tooth to “seal” the groove preventing bacteria and food from getting into the groove and forming cavities.  Sealants can reduce decay by 85 – 90%

Dental Fluoride

Dental fluorides offer many benefits to patients, both young and mature.  Dental treatments with fluoride can prevent tooth decay and possibly rebuild minor areas of decay in both children and adults.Fluoride

  • Fluoridated water can reduce decay by 50 – 60%
  • Fluoride gels from your dentist twice a year can reduce decay by 40%
  • Fluoride toothpastes can reduce cavities by at least 25%
  • Fluoride gels prescribed by your dentist for home use are more concentrated than what is found in toothpaste for those in need of additional protection
  • In children, fluoride can harden the enamel of the teeth and reduce the risk of decay.
  • In adults, fluoride can considerably reduce sensitivity to temperature.
  • Plaque can also be decreased with fluoride usage. Plaque is bacteria that can cause decay or periodontal disease.

Silver Diamine Fluoride

Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) is a liquid medication that’s applied topically to the teeth.The silver fluoride formula is 38 percent silver fluoride salt, which is made water-soluble by the addition of small amounts of ammonia. The result is a liquid that can easily be painted onto teeth in a matter of seconds!

SDF is used to desensitize teeth and is a more conservative treatment of non-symptomatic or very small cavities. Other uses:
• Prevention of decay in patients with high risk conditions.
• Infants and young children who would need sedation to treat with traditional restorative methods.
• Frail elderly with limited endurance for dental procedures and/or nursing home residents or those on hospice.
• Difficult to treat lesions (under crowns or in root furcations or partially erupted teeth)
• Patients with cognitive or physical disabilities
• Multiple lesions that can not be treated in one visit and may advance or become infected while awaiting treatment.
• Patients with severe dental phobia
• Immunocompromised patients with a higher risk of systemic infection from untreated decay.
• For patients without access to traditional dental care.

Benefits
Silver Diamine Fluoride affords a treatment method that is completely painless, inexpensive, and takes very little chair time to perform. Risks SDF has been used in other countries for more than 80 years without a single adverse event reported. It was approved for use in the US in 2014.

Drawbacks

SDF causes staining of the lesion. Areas treated with SDF will remain dark brown or black. It can also stain the skin if it accidentally comes in contact, which will clear within 2-3 weeks with no treatment needed. Re-application is recommended every 6 months. SDF can not be used in patients with a Silver Allergy. SDF should not be used if there are painful sores on the gums

Orthodontics

The early diagnosis and referral of orthodontic cases is important for providing the best care to our patients.

Ask our knowledgeable team any questions you have about our procedures!

We offer Emergency Dental Services, as well!

General Cleaning & Health

Implants & Restoration

Cosmetic Dentistry

Call: 605.343-5925

2006 Mt. Rushmore Rd.,
Rapid City, SD 57701

Working Hours

Monday-Thursday 8:20am-5:00pm

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