General/Biological Dentistry in Grand Island, NE
Cottonwood Dental provides general dentistry services that support oral health and whole-body wellness. Led by Dr. Rachel Brown-McDonald, a trusted biological dentist in Grand Island, our practice has nurtured healthy smiles since 2014. We welcome all ages, from newborns to seniors, with warm smiles and a commitment to personalized care and attention.
If you're looking for a holistic dentist, our approach ensures a balance between oral health and overall wellness.
General Dentistry with a Biological Perspective
Our range of services includes all those you would expect from a general dental practice. From cleanings, composite tooth fillings, and dental crowns to dental implants, we consider the entire body when treating you. We recognize that what happens in the mouth affects the body and needs to be treated as such.
Unique Services with a Biological Touch
As a biological dentist, Dr. Brown offers services that may not typically fall under the umbrella of general dentistry, each with a nod to functional health:
- SMART Amalgam Removal — We are trained to safely remove amalgam fillings to reduce potential exposure to mercury vapor, safeguarding the health of both patients and the dental team.
- Tongue-Tie Revision — Also called a frenectomy, this treatment corrects restricted tongue movement. Tongue tie revisions are especially beneficial for nursing infants because they allow for more comfortable, effective breastfeeding for mother and baby. Children and adults can also benefit from a revision if they struggle with muscle tension, speech issues, snoring, feeding difficulties, or gagging, to name a few.
- Myofunctional Therapy — This treatment focuses on correcting improper breathing habits and adjusting the balance of muscles in and around the mouth and face.
- Laser Dentistry — Treatments using laser technology align with the body's natural processes because they are more comfortable and precise and promote faster healing.
- HealthyStart® Appliances — Early orthodontic intervention in children can prevent severe issues from arising by redirecting the growth of the teeth and jaws and address sleep-disordered breathing issues, setting the stage for a lifetime of better health and wellness.
- Ozone Therapy — An innovative treatment that safely and effectively addresses a variety of oral health concerns, from decay to periodontal disease.
- Saliva Testing — This method for evaluating the health of the mouth's bacteria allows for precise treatments that improve oral gut microbiomes.
- Biocompatibility Testing — This process identifies materials that are safe and harmonious with an individual's body, allowing for personalized dental care.
- Hydroxyapatite — In place of fluoride to strengthen and protect teeth, we use this safe, naturally occurring mineral.
An Integrated Health Approach
Dr. Brown believes involving the patient’s entire healthcare team is crucial to obtaining the best insights into their whole-body health. She collaborates with a network of professionals, including myofunctional therapists and functional and traditional medical providers, ensuring a comprehensive treatment plan that supports all aspects of a patient's health.
An Invitation to Dental Health and Wellness
We invite you to experience the difference a biological approach can make to your oral health and overall wellness. If you value a health-centric approach to your dental care, contact Cottonwood Dental to schedule your visit. Your journey towards a healthier smile and body starts here.
Dr. Brown-McDonald was professional and thorough with my exam.
I really enjoyed my experience at cottonwood dental. The staff were all very welcoming and friendly. Getting an appointment was easy and quick. Dr. Brown-McDonald was professional and thorough with my exam. I had to have some work done, and she explained my options in detail. She did great work!
-S.G.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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.
Meet Our Dentist:
Dr. Rachel Brown-McDonald DDS
Dr. Rachel Brown-McDonald graduated from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry in 2012. She then completed a one-year general residency in southern Colorado before joining what would become Cottonwood Dental in 2013. A year later, in 2014, she became the owner of the dental practice in Grand Island, further committing to the community.
Dr. Brown-McDonald’s journey into dentistry began during her high school and college years when she worked as a dental assistant. This early exposure allowed her to appreciate the detailed, individualized care dentistry offers, sparking a ...
General/Biological Dentistry Technology
Digital X-Rays and Sensors
Digital x-rays and sensitive digital sensors enable us to capture detailed images of teeth and bone structures with a fraction of the radiation used in traditional film x-rays. These images offer exceptional clarity, helping Dr. Brown diagnose conditions at their earliest stages—from minor cavities to hidden dental abnormalities that could affect overall health if left untreated. Early detection is crucial for preventing more extensive, costly, and invasive treatments down the line, staying true to our preventive care philosophy.
The images are also available for immediate viewing, making them an excellent educational tool. By viewing these clear images together, you can better understand your oral health status and the reasons behind recommended treatments, making you an active participant in your dental care journey.
Ozone Generator
This technology creates ozone, a form of oxygen with potent antimicrobial properties used to treat and disinfect various dental conditions. Ozone therapy effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making it essential for procedures like gum disease management, root sensitivity, and cavity treatment.
By applying ozone during dental treatments, Dr. Brown ensures a higher level of disinfection that significantly reduces the risk of infection and promotes faster healing. Ozone therapy treats the immediate area and supports the body's immune response, enhancing overall health and wellness.