expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Tim Kelly

Dentist

Dr. Tim Kelly is a Dentist practicing in Rapid City, South Dakota. Dr. Kelly specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. Dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning, restorative, prosthodontic, and endodontic procedures, and performing examinations, among many others.
Dr. Tim Kelly
  • Rapid City, South Dakota
  • Creighton University School of Dentistry
  • Accepting new patients

Do cavities need to be filled immediately?

Yes, they do. If you see them, they're real big underneath and the longer you wait, the higher the risk of pain, swelling, and tooth loss there is. If you see one, you may have READ MORE
Yes, they do. If you see them, they're real big underneath and the longer you wait, the higher the risk of pain, swelling, and tooth loss there is. If you see one, you may have 10 or more cavities. Post-Covid people who came in at regular times had less cavities, but overall a lot of people are having a lot of cavities which are caused by stress, dry mouths, more snacking and sugary drinks between meals. The people that had cavities prior to covid and didn’t come back in are having trouble with abscesses and tooth loss now. And the cavities have went from a few to many. See a dentist as soon as you can is my advice!

Is it okay to brush your teeth four times a day?

YES, by all means! If you have a high cavity rate or periodontal disease (gum infections), you sure should use a soft or ultra soft brush and floss more too. It could be a life READ MORE
YES, by all means! If you have a high cavity rate or periodontal disease (gum infections), you sure should use a soft or ultra soft brush and floss more too. It could be a life saver if you have a family history of stroke, heart attack, or even dementia.

What mouthwash is best for bleeding gums?

Toothbrush, floss, and waterpik on gum tissue work well. Mouth wash doesn't help.

Is there an alternative to gum grafting?

It’s your choice but the procedure works 93% of the time

How do you clean under dental implants?

Routinely dental implants show be cleaned by a dental hygienist or dentist every three months after their placement. Your dentist or dental hygienist should show you at that appointment READ MORE
Routinely dental implants show be cleaned by a dental hygienist or dentist every three months after their placement. Your dentist or dental hygienist should show you at that appointment how to routinely clean them. There are many different types of implant systems that require cleaning in a different manors.

How long do fillings last?

Depends on a lot of things sometimes they won’t make it a week but on average about 5 to 7 yrs

How do you know when a cavity is really bad?

I had a professional put it off for 1.5 years and it’s root canal and crown now many have to be pulled if you wait good idea to check with a dental professional

How do dental inlays differ from crowns?

Yes inlays and onlays are top of the line dentistry most dental insurance companies don’t pay for them but the best is the best

How common are white spots after braces?

Very common, usually these are called decalcification spots. Some can be removed, some can’t. Good brushing habits and fluoride Tx are a must during braces to prevent these.

Can a dentist fix rotting teeth?

It depends on how rotted or decayed they are. See a dentist to let them make that determination

Can you fix cavities with braces?

Yes you deband day of or few days before then reband after

How long do stitches stay in after dental bone graft?

Depends on type of grafts. It can be anywhere from 7 to 21 days

What should a tooth extraction look like when healing?

Depends on your healing ability let your dentist look at it if you have any questions about healing

How often should I clean my teeth with braces?

A real important thing to do at least after every meal before bed and in am after waking

What is a good age for braces?

Early treatment is always better than late treatment

Can you chew gum with a crown?

Should be able too. I’m assuming it’s sugar free?

Can dentists do gum grafts?

Yes with training

Dentist question?

One without alcohol in it. Composites fillings and cements are broken down faster with alcohol rinses.