Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

During your initial visit to Cottonwood Dental, you'll begin with a welcoming and thorough introduction to our practice. Here's what you can expect:

Paperwork and Introductions

Upon arrival, you'll complete some essential paperwork that helps us learn about your medical history, dental concerns, and overall health goals. This information is crucial for tailoring our care to your individual needs. You will then meet one of our hygienists, who will guide you through the initial processes and treatments.

Comprehensive Teeth Cleaning

The hygienist will perform a comprehensive cleaning of your teeth. This process involves removing plaque and tartar buildup, polishing your teeth, and assessing your gum health, which is essential for detecting any early signs of gum disease.

Education and Discussion

As part of our commitment to preventive care and education, the hygienist will discuss proper oral hygiene techniques with you. This step offers a refresher on brushing and flossing to ensure optimal oral health between visits.

Scheduling Follow-Up Visits

If the hygienist notes any areas of concern or you have a specific dental issue you would like to address with the dentist, we will schedule a follow-up appointment for you. This visit can include diagnostic exams such as x-rays or consultations for specific treatments.

Ready to Get Started with Cottonwood Dental?

We invite you to call us at (308) 382-1890 to schedule your first appointment and discover why we are a trusted dentist near me for biological and holistic dentistry in Grand Island, NE.

We understand the importance of materials that are not only effective but also safe and biocompatible. Dr. Rachel Brown-McDonald takes a biological approach to dentistry, which is reflected in her choice of materials for fillings and crowns.

Mercury-Free Fillings

Dr. Brown uses mercury-free filling material carefully selected to be compatible with your body to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and toxicity. We choose fillings made from composite resins or porcelain because they are a more biocompatible option, and we can color-match them to surrounding teeth for a seamless appearance. 

High-Quality Porcelain Crowns

For crowns, Dr. Brown prefers materials like porcelain or ceramic zirconia, known for their durability and natural appearance. These materials blend seamlessly with your smile, providing a solution that restores function and is aesthetically pleasing.

Using biocompatible materials aligns with Dr. Brown’s holistic approach to dental care by considering the health of your teeth and how materials interact with your overall health.

Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal

If you have existing mercury fillings, Dr. Brown is trained in the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART). This technique ensures the safe removal of mercury fillings and protects you and our staff from harmful mercury vapors and particles.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Whether you need a filling, a crown, or have concerns about mercury fillings, Cottonwood Dental is here to assist. Call your dentist near me in Grand Island, NE, to schedule an appointment today.

At Cottonwood Dental, we deeply value patient education and involvement in making decisions about dental care. Every patient comes to us with unique circumstances, and we ensure every treatment plan is personalized, comprehensive, and considers your needs.

Our Approach to Treatment Options

Thorough Consultation and Evaluation

Every treatment plan begins with a detailed consultation, during which Dr. Brown examines your dental health and listens to your concerns and goals. This holistic approach ensures we consider all aspects of your well-being. 

Education on Available Treatment Options

Dr. Brown empowers her patients by thoroughly discussing all available treatment options. She explains the benefits and potential drawbacks, providing the information necessary to make an informed decision.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Dr. Brown understands that patients' needs vary enormously—from oral health status to financial considerations and scheduling needs—and tailors treatment plans accordingly. Whether selecting the best materials or choosing between services like dental implants and bridges, her priority is to align treatment with your health objectives and lifestyle.

Explore Your Dental Treatment Options Today

If you’re looking for a dentist near me in Grand Island, NE, who listens and addresses your needs, Cottonwood Dental is here for you. Call us at (308) 382-1890 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown.

A tongue-tie revision is a procedure medically known as a frenectomy. This simple step corrects an abnormally thick, short, or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) between the tongue and the base of the mouth. Dr. Brown McDonald recommends a frenectomy when a tongue tie limits the tongue's mobility and impacts breastfeeding, speech, or oral hygiene.

Steps Involved in a Tongue-Tie Revision Procedure

Consultation and Evaluation — The first step is a comprehensive evaluation where Dr. Brown assesses the frenulum's attachment to determine the procedure's necessity.

Preparation — Before beginning, we gently numb the area around the frenulum with a local anesthetic to ensure a comfortable procedure.

Laser Frenectomy — Dr. Brown uses a precise, minimally invasive laser to release the frenulum. The laser cuts and cauterizes simultaneously, reducing bleeding and healing time.

Immediate Aftercare — Post-procedure, the impact is often immediate, particularly for nursing infants who can latch more effectively almost right away.

Our Commitment to Nursing Moms

Cottonwood Dental is committed to supporting nursing mothers. Having personally experienced the challenges associated with tongue ties, Dr. Brown ensures that mothers receive the support they need. Our clinic offers the services of a lactation consultant and provides a quiet, private room for nursing immediately after the procedure to test the effectiveness of the revision.

Ready to Address Tongue-Tie Concerns?

If you suspect that a tongue-tie affects your child’s breastfeeding or your comfort, contact Cottonwood Dental, your trusted dentist near me in Grand Island, NE. We will help find solutions for better health and comfort for both you and your infant.

Call us today at (308) 382-1890 to schedule an assessment and get the support you need.

Undergoing a safe amalgam removal at Cottonwood Dental follows a specific protocol to ensure your safety and the safety of our staff. Here’s what to expect during your appointment:

Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique

Preparation and Safety

Safety is our primary concern when removing amalgam fillings, which contain mercury. We follow the Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique (SMART), endorsed by the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). This includes protective gear for the patient and dental team, such as face shields, gowns, and proper ventilation systems to minimize mercury exposure.

Use of Specialized Equipment

Our state-of-the-art equipment includes high-volume air filtration systems that capture mercury vapor and particles. Dental dams isolate the teeth being worked on to prevent swallowed amalgam particles.

Amalgam Removal Technique

Dr. Brown carefully sections the amalgam fillings to minimize the release of mercury vapor and remove them in large chunks. This technique reduces the amount of vapor released.

Post-Procedure Care

After removal, we provide detailed aftercare instructions that may include hydration, specific dietary recommendations, and supplements to aid detoxification.

Considering Safe Amalgam Removal?

At Cottonwood Dental, we prioritize your health and comfort. If you’re considering removing your amalgam fillings, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Brown, your trusted dentist near me, at our Grand Island, NE, dental office.