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Your smile, a cherished asset, deserves the best care, and dental crowns play a pivotal role in maintaining its radiance. These inconspicuous caps, though often overlooked, significantly impact your oral health and appearance. In this article, we’ll delve into the signs that may hint at the need for a dental crown replacement. Recognizing these signals can be instrumental in preserving both your smile and overall oral health.

Pain or Discomfort: Listening to Your Dental Crown’s Signals

Among the most noticeable indicators that your dental crown may need attention is persistent pain or discomfort around the crown area. This discomfort could be a warning sign of underlying issues such as decay, infection, or an improper fit. Ignoring it might pave the way for more severe problems down the road.

What to Do:

Consult Dr. Melissa Schuldt and her expert team at Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE, (Call at (308) 382-8205) immediately for a professional evaluation. In the interim, consider over-the-counter pain relief remedies to manage discomfort while awaiting professional advice.

Visible Damage or Wear: Safeguarding Your Crown’s Integrity

Your dental crown is designed to endure the daily rigors of chewing and biting. Yet, over time, it might exhibit visible signs of wear such as cracks, chips, or notable damage. These overt indicators of wear and tear can compromise the crown’s function, potentially posing a threat to your oral health.

What to Do:

Incorporate regular visual inspections of your dental crowns into your oral care routine. Report any visible damage promptly to Dr. Melissa Schuldt. Schedule routine dental check-ups at Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE, (Call at (308) 382-8205) to detect and address problems at an early stage.

Changes in Bite or Alignment: Noticing Subtle Shifts

A shift in your bite or misalignment of your teeth could signal that your dental crown is no longer fitting as it should. These changes might arise due to wear and tear on the crown or natural alterations in your oral structure.

What to Do:

Contact Dr. Melissa Schuldt at Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE,  to address noticeable changes in your bite or alignment promptly. Timely intervention can prevent potential oral health complications.

Gum Recession Around the Crown: Preserving the Perimeter

Gum health is a cornerstone for upholding the integrity of your dental crowns. Observing gum recession around the crown is a crucial cue, potentially exposing the tooth or crown edges and leading to complications.

What to Do:

Prioritize good gum health through regular brushing and flossing. Seek professional dental care at Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE,  if you notice gum recession, effectively managing the issue.

Age of the Crown: Acknowledging the Passage of Time

Similar to any dental work, dental crowns have a finite lifespan. The typical duration ranges from 5 to 15 years, influenced by factors like material quality and oral hygiene practices. Older crowns might exhibit signs of wear and tear necessitating replacement.

What to Do:

Stay mindful of your dental crown’s age and discuss replacement options with Dr. Melissa Schuldt at Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE, (Call at (308) 382-8205) as it approaches the end of its lifespan. Maintain excellent oral hygiene practices to extend the longevity of your dental crowns.

Conclusion: Nurturing Your Smile’s Timeless Brilliance

Your dental crowns are invaluable guardians of both your oral health and the beauty of your smile. By attuning yourself to these five signs, you ensure that your crowns continue to fulfill their purpose effectively. Regular dental visits are the linchpin for monitoring crown conditions and addressing any issues promptly. If you notice any signs mentioned in this article, reach out without delay to Dr. Melissa Schuldt at Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE, (Call at (308) 382-8205) for a comprehensive evaluation. Your radiant smile is unquestionably worth the care and attention!

 
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Welcome to Grand Island, NE, where we prioritize more than just your smile at Downtown Dental. Our commitment extends to maintaining overall oral health, with a particular focus on the intricate relationship between dental implants and bone health. Join us on this insightful journey to understand why it matters and how Dr. Melissa Schuldt ensures top-tier care for your teeth and jawbone.

Understanding Jawbone Loss: A Common Predicament

Jawbone loss is a prevalent and serious concern, often exacerbated by tooth loss. When teeth are missing, the jawbone undergoes a deterioration process due to the lack of stimulation, leading to changes in facial structure and subsequent dental complications. At Downtown Dental, we stress the urgency of addressing these issues promptly to prevent further complications.

The Pivotal Role of Dental Implants in Bone Preservation

Dental implants transcend mere cosmetic solutions; they are instrumental in preserving bone health. Through a process called osseointegration, these implants integrate with the bone, providing essential stimulation to maintain jawbone density. Dr. Melissa Schuldt specializes in this technique, ensuring that implants contribute not only to an enhanced smile but also to optimal bone health.

Benefits of Dental Implants for Bone Health

Opting for dental implants offers a multitude of benefits:

  1. Prevents Bone Loss: Acting as natural tooth roots, implants provide crucial stimulation to the jawbone.
  2. Maintains Facial Structure: By preserving bone, implants help retain your natural face shape.
  3. Long-Term Oral Health: Implants contribute significantly to overall oral health, preventing issues like teeth shifting.

Preparing for a Dental Implant Procedure

Preparation is the cornerstone of a successful dental implant procedure. Dr. Melissa Schuldt conducts a thorough assessment of your bone density and overall oral health to determine the most effective approach. This may involve preparatory procedures such as bone grafts to ensure the best possible outcome.

The Dental Implant Procedure and Seamless Bone Integration

The implant procedure entails placing a titanium post into the jawbone, where it gradually fuses with the bone over time. This meticulous process, guided by the skilled hands of Dr. Melissa Schuldt, ensures a robust foundation for the new tooth.

Post-Implant Care: Nurturing Optimal Bone Health

After the surgery, adherence to Dr. Melissa Schuldt’s care instructions is crucial for optimal healing. This includes maintaining impeccable oral hygiene and scheduling regular check-ups at Downtown Dental.

Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies

While dental implants boast a high success rate, understanding potential risks is paramount. Dr. Melissa Schuldt will discuss these with you, providing personalized strategies to mitigate any possible complications.

FAQs About Dental Implants and Bone Health

Q: Are dental implants safe for everyone? 

A: While most people are good candidates, a thorough evaluation is necessary.

Q: How long does the healing process take?

A: Healing times vary, but full osseointegration typically takes several months.

Conclusion: 

Dental implants offer a safe and effective means to preserve your jawbone’s health while restoring your smile. At Downtown Dental, Dr. Melissa Schuldt and our dedicated team are committed to providing you with the best care possible. Contact us at (308) 382-8205 to embark on a journey toward optimal oral health and a revitalized smile.

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Invisalign Feat 2

Invisalign is a great alternative to traditional braces for both teens and adults. Invisalign has the capability to treat even severe corrections. This treatment uses clear aligners that are worn in a series over time to gently move teeth into place. The aligners are removable for easy cleaning, drinking, and eating.

Is Invisalign Treatment Just As Effective as Braces?

Invisalign is a discrete treatment making this a popular choice for teens. There are no wires or brackets, and the aligners are smooth and comfortable when worn. If the aligners are worn properly, and for the recommend length of time, this treatment is very successful for teens. Invisalign can correct an overbite, underbite, crowding, and gaps.

Is My Teen a Good Candidate?

To determine if your child is a good candidate we recommend starting with an orthodontic consultation in our office. Most teens are good candidates, and Invisalign can give great results. Depending on the level of correction needed and their age, will determine the best treatment plan to give your teen a beautiful smile.

What Are the Advantages of Invisalign?

Blue Indicator

Invisalign trays come with a blue indicator to help indicate if your teen has worn the trays for the required amount of time.

Removable Aligners

Invisalign aligners are removable and easy to clean. This is helpful for teens who play sports. There is no need to worry about getting hit in the mouth like with braces. If your teen plays an instrument the aligner can be removed. Brushing and flossing is a lot easier when you can remove your clean aligner. This helps teens to really keep up with their oral hygiene and get those hard to reach areas.

No Food Restrictions

Traditional braces require some food restrictions. Invisalign aligners can be taken out while eating so your teen can enjoy all the snacks and healthy foods they love.

Invisalign Is Discrete

Teens tend to go through a lot during their teenage years. Self-image is important, and some tend to be self-conscious about how they look. Invisalign gives teens a discrete treatment that can produce beautiful results. Teens can feel comfortable wearing their clear aligners around others because they are invisible.

Saves Time

Invisalign does not require any hardware adjustment or repair like traditional braces do. This helps to decrease the time spent in our office. Typically we have patients using Invisalign come in every four to six weeks to ensure treatment is going well.

Interested in Finding Out More About Invisalign?

Invisalign is just as effective as braces, and as long as your teen wears the aligners properly you will have amazing results. Schedule your teen’s consultation today, and we can get them on the way to a straighter smile.

To schedule your consultation contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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Oral health is extremely important for many reasons. If patients suffer from gum disease, cavities, or bad breath this can cause issues with your teeth and mouth. Our mouths are a pathway for bacteria to enter the body. The bacteria are able to enter the blood stream, and this can also cause infection or inflammation in other parts of our body.

Taking good care of your teeth and mouth can keep your body healthy, and can also help avoid serious issues in the future. At Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE, we encourage our patients to practice good oral hygiene habits at home. We also promote overall health and wellness. Our team cares about each patient, and keeping up with your oral health not only can keep your teeth and mouth feeling great, but your body feeling great also.

What Problems Can Occur From Poor Oral Health?

Respiratory Infections

If you have infected or inflamed gums that bacteria can transfer into the lungs. This can lead to respiratory infections, pneumonia, or even bronchitis.

Dementia

Inflamed gums can release substances that are harmful to our brain cells. This can lead to memory loss that is a result of bacteria spreading to the nerves.

Cardiovascular Disease

If you have poor oral health you are at risk for cardiovascular disease. The bacteria from the infected gums enters the bloodstream, and can cause the arteries to build up plaque. This can put you at risk for a heart attack.

Prostate Problems

If men suffer from periodontal disease they may have prostatitis. This condition causes irritation and other prostate related problems.

Diabetes

Diabetics are more likely to have infected gums over those that do not have diabetes. This can make diabetes difficult to control due to unregulated blood sugar levels. Gum disease can lead to higher blood sugar levels and this can put a person at risk for developing diabetes.

Infertility

Poor oral health and infertility in women are linked. If a woman suffers from gum disease this can lead to issues with infertility, and may make it difficult for a woman to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy.

Cancer

Poor oral health can put patients at risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer, or blood cancer. In addition if patients smoke or use tobacco products this can lead to oral or throat cancers.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

People who have gum disease are more likely to have Rheumatoid Arthritis. The bacteria in our mouths can increase inflammation in the body, and this increases the risk for developing Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a health problem that affects the kidneys, heart, bones, and blood pressure. Periodontal disease can lead to kidney disease. Patients with gum disease typically have weaker immune systems, and this can make them susceptible to infection. Many patients that have poor oral health also have kidney disease, and this can lead to kidney failure if not treated.

How Can I Prevent These Health Issues?

In order to prevent serious health issues caused by bad oral health habits you must take care of your oral health. Scheduling regular dental exams in our office can help keep your teeth and gums clean, and get in front of any issues before they arise. Dr. Melissa Schuldt’s friendly Grand Island dental team always put our patients first, and complete a thorough exam of your teeth and mouth to ensure everything is looking and feeling great. If we do have concerns, we will discuss those with you and develop a customized treatment plan to take care of any issues right away.

Tips for Good Oral Hygiene

  • Brush and floss your teeth daily
  • Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products
  • Use mouthwash that contains fluoride
  • Try and stay away from food and drinks that contain lots of sugar
  • Eat a well-balanced diet
  • Exercise and take care of your overall health

If you take care of your oral health, you take care of your body. Good oral hygiene can help prevent problems such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, as well as prevent more serious health issues in your body.

Looking for a Family Dentist Near You?

At Downtown Dental, we provide the highest level of dental care for patients of all ages. We welcome all new patients, and use state of the art technology to ensure our patients have an exceptional experience when visiting our office.

If you are looking for a dentist near you, contact our dental office in Grand Island, ME to schedule your next dental exam and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you!

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If you have inflammation in your mouth or gums it may be time to consult with a Periodontist. Gum disease is one of the most common disease patients face today. This condition must be treated promptly to avoid receding gums, or even tooth loss. Attending regular visits to our office can help to prevent gum disease and get in front of any issues with your gums or teeth before they become worse. At Downtown Dental we provide many periodontal treatment services in Grand Island, ME for our patients including scaling and root planing.

If you have had previous treatment for gum disease, you may have had great results, and your gums have improved or stopped bleeding. Once you have suffered from gum disease, it is important to keep up with your oral hygiene and gum treatments, because gum bleeding and disease can reoccur. Brushing and flossing around the gums carefully at home help continue to keep your teeth and gum free of disease.

How Do I Care for My Gums and Prevent Gum Disease from Returning?

Routine dental cleanings and periodontal treatment help to get rid of plaque and bacteria that cause gum disease to return or get worse. Scaling and root planing is a great technique to remove plaque and tarter, and also helps to smooth out the surface of your gums. This procedure shrinks periodontal pockets to prevent future bacteria from entering the area. Dr. Melissa Schuldt, our dentist in Grand Island, NE recommend patients come in for their regular dental exams twice a year, and for periodontal treatment at least once a year.

Keeping up with good oral hygiene is the most important part of preventing gum disease. Dr. Schuldt recommends that patients brush twice a day, and floss once a day. If you keep up with your oral hygiene you can reverse gum disease, and never have to deal with painful bleeding gums again. Attending your regular dental exams can help keep an eye on any developing periodontal pockets, and stop gum disease in its tracks.

Dr. Melissa Schuldt, our dentist in Grand Island, NE

Staying on top of your general health is also important. This includes avoiding alcohol or smoking, and staying away from sugary drinks. Taking care of both your oral and general health is imperative, to ensure your teeth and gums will last you a lifetime.

Our team at Downtown Dental provides a detailed consultation process to examine your teeth and gums and determine if you can benefit from periodontal treatment. Our creates a customized treatment plan to help restore your gums and teeth and keep any signs of inflammation or gum disease from progressing further.

Looking for Gum Disease Treatment Near You?

Choosing the best option is important, and our team at Downtown Dental is here to help give you all of the options available to achieve that bright white smile. We welcome all patients, and strive to always provide quality service our patients can count on.

If you are interested in finding out more about gum disease solutions in Grand Island, ME, please contact Dr. Melissa Schuldt to schedule your consultation.

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Switching dentists can be a hard decision, but patients need to make a change if they notice things aren’t working out with the current practice. Knowing when to make the move can be hard, but there are some tips you can follow to help you find your new dental office or dental clinic in the Grand Island, NE area.

There are signs you can look out for that indicate it may be time to start your search to find your next dental practice. At Downtown Dental, we welcome new patients to our practice, and strive to provide exceptional service to patients of all ages. We know how important finding the right dentist is, and we go above and beyond to provide the highest level of service and care for our patients!

What Are Some Signs That Indicate it May Be Time to Switch Dental Practices?

  • Your dentist has retired or moved
  • You have decided to move away from the area
  • Appointments tend to be at inconvenient times
  • Getting to your dentist is difficult, and the practice may be in an inconvenient location
  • The practice does not offer the dental procedures you need
  • Your friends or family have recommended another practice that sounds like it may be a better fit
  • You have had to call the billing department and dispute charges multiple times
  • Your dental insurance has changed
  • You do not feel comfortable with the recommended treatment plan at your current dentist

How Should I Go About Switching Dentists?

Once you have made the decision to switch dentists you can focus on finding your new practice. Making sure the new dentist is a good fit is important, and there are many things to consider. Think about what type of dental practice you would like for you and your family. Would a family practice work better and if so, make sure the new practice can provide all of the necessary services for your entire family. Research if the practice offers orthodontics if you have teenagers, should you need that type of treatment. This will help to eliminate the need for switching dentists again in the future.

Do your research and check out some online reviews to read about the dentist’s certifications or background. Read about the mission statement to understand the practice values, and how the practice is run. Make sure the facility is updated, and has the latest technology and advanced procedures available.

Once you have done your research and have found a dentist you think may be a good fit, schedule a visit to check out the practice. This way you can see firsthand if you are comfortable, and if your family would benefit from joining the practice. 


When visiting the office take mental notes of important things such as how you are treated during your visit, and how long it takes you to get to and from the practice. Ask the staff if you can have a tour of the office to ensure the practice meets your expectations.

Looking for a quality Dentist Near You?

If you are looking for a family friendly dentist in Grand Island, contact Dr. Melissa Schuldt for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provide exceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please contact Dr. Schuldt, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

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If you have been recommended for dental implants, you may wonder if they will ever have to be replaced. Implants are a permanent restorative solution for patients seeking that perfect smile. Dental implants look and feel natural in the mouth, and last upwards of 25 years if they are cared for properly.


At Downtown Dental, dental implants are one of the most common restorative options done in our dental office in Grand Island, NE. Many patients are leaning towards this permanent option to give them a durable smile that will last for years. Dental implants can last your entire life, and they are one of the most reliable tooth restoration options available to patients.


However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel on our teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Implants have a 95% success rate, and we encourage patients to use good oral hygiene habits to keep the implants clean and free of plaque. This helps the implants to last, and prevents infection which can make them unstable in the mouth. Implants moving or needing replacement is rare. If an implant shifts out of place this could indicate the bone tissue is not providing enough support, and you should contact our dental office in Grand Island, NE immediately.

Tips to Ensure your Dental Implants Last a Lifetime

Here are some helpful tips that you can start using to get the most out of your dental implants:

  • Floss daily using an implant specific floss or wax free floss to help keep the area clean and free of plaque. A Waterpik Water Flosser can be used to assist in removing plaque around the implants.
  • Use a low abrasive tooth brush such as a soft type brush on your implants.
  • Avoid any products, foods, or drinks containing any ingredients that may stain your teeth.
  • Anti-microbial rinses can be used to help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
  • Avoid products that contain stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, or baking soda. These ingredients can make the implants prone to corrosion.

Contact Downtown Dental in Grand Island, NE

Caring for your implants at home is similar to caring for your natural teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene habits at home will ensure your implants last for years and never need to be replaced. D. Melissa Schuldt‘s friendly team is here to help you achieve the smile you have always wanted. We are always available to answer questions and help you every step of the way.

If you are interested in finding out more about dental implants in Grand Island, NE and how they may benefit you, contact Downtown Dental to schedule your consultation with Dr. Schuldt!

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Dental cleanings are integral part of our oral health, and are typically recommended twice a year. Keeping our teeth and gums free and clear of harmful bacteria is important. At Downtown Dental, our team is proud to offer general dental treatments like dental cleanings in Grand Island, NE. We strive to provide quality services for our patients, and always make sure our patients are relaxed and comfortable during their visit.

However, some patients have asked us if having their teeth cleaned regularly can damage the enamel on our teeth. We hope that this article can help address this common concern.

Can Dental Cleanings Damage Enamel?

Dental cleanings do not damage the enamel on your teeth! Cleanings safely remove the plaque and bacteria that builds up over time on the teeth and under the gums. If teeth are not cleaned regularly inflammation can occur, and this can lead to gum disease. Brushing at home is a great way to remove bacteria from the teeth, but brushing cannot clean our teeth like a professional cleaning. Our certified hygienists provide quality cleanings to keep your teeth and mouth healthy.

If teeth are cleaned improperly at home or by a non-professional, damage can occur to the enamel. Enamel is extremely durable, and it is hard to chip or damage during cleaning exams. Enamel can wear off if patients suffer from bruxism, or use harsh brushing strokes while brushing their teeth at home. Acidic foods or drinks can also cause erosion to enamel on our teeth.

If you have concerns about the condition of the enamel on your teeth, please let our team know when you schedule your appointment.

What Should I Expect During my Cleaning Appointment?

Dental cleanings in our office typically take anywhere from 30-45 minutes. X-rays are taken if needed, and carefully reviewed during your exam to help our team to provide a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our skilled hygienists use special tools to carefully remove the hard layer of plaque from a patient’s teeth, and we ensure your mouth is free of any plaque or bacteria. Our staff will discuss the health of your teeth and gums, and will recommend further treatment if needed.

Your oral health is extremely important to us, and we encourage our patients to keep up with regularly scheduled dental cleanings to keep their teeth looking and feeling great. Regular dental cleanings are a great way to prevent future issues. Dental exams give us the opportunity to catch any potential issues early, and prevent serious issues from developing.

Looking for a quality Dentist in Grand Island, NE for your next Dental Exam?

If you are looking for a family friendly dentist in Grand Island, NE, contact Downtown Dental for your next dental cleaning. Our goal is to provide exceptional service in a family friendly environment. Our staff is available to answer any questions you may have, and we welcome all new patients to our office.

If you are interested in scheduling your next dental cleaning with us, please contact Dr. Melissa Schuldt, and one of our staff members will be happy to assist you.

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The Answers to Your Questions about Dental Implants

The temporomandibular joint is what allows us to eat, laugh, drink, talk, blow, bite and yawn – it is the joint that joins the lower jaw or maxilla with the skull shaping our lower facial third and allowing the movement of the jaw itself. Other joints of our body (shoulder, knees …) are double but both joints TMJ are joined by the jaw itself and have to move together; for example, the two knees are separated and can perform different movements to the same time independently of each other. The two TMJs cannot move separately, they have to do it in unison and in a coordinated way – this complicates their pathology.

It is an anatomically complex joint. It has an intra-articular meniscus that also moves with the mandibular movements, ligaments with intra-articular and extra-articular insertion, musculature that provides movement and joint capsule. This variety of elements makes it easy to cause pathologies and pains. They are not always easy to locate and diagnose.

Do you feel sharp and stabbing pain in the mouth?

The temporomandibular joint dysfunction may cause joint pain and pain in the muscles that control jaw movement.

TMJ or TMJ joint

What is the temporomandibular joint?

The temporomandibular joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. As with any other joint in the body, the TMJ joins different bones, i.e. the temporal bone and the jaw, on both sides of the head. They are two joints that work synchronized with each other. The main function of the TMJ is to guide and limit the movements of the lower jaw, since this joint is involved in various facial actions, such as phonation, communication, chewing, swallowing and yawning. The TMJ consists of three anatomical structures, the jaw condyle, the glenoid cavity and the temporal bone condyle. Between both condyles we find an articular disc or intraarticular meniscus. Another important part of this joint is the temporomandibular ligament, which has the function of preventing the condyle from moving excessively. Thanks to the TMJ we can perform three types of movements with our jaw:

Lateral movement: in this movement the jaw moves alternately to the right or to the left. Movement up or down: this is a very important movement since it is the one that we use the most with this joint. It allows us to articulate the words and other essential activities in daily life, such as to chew. With it we open and close our mouths. Protrusion and retrusion movement: this is the movement that is performed in the horizontal plane, when the jaw moves forward keeping in contact with the upper jaw. It is a movement that in humans is quite limited, but that in other mammals such as rodents is very important.

Symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction

The most frequent symptoms of TMJ are:

  • Bruxism, which is the tendency of certain people to grit their teeth or make them grind by sliding or rubbing their teeth back and forth one on the other.
  • Jaw pain
  • Feeling of jaw fatigue
  • Difficulty opening the mouth, cracking in the jaw
  • Bad occlusion problems
  • Dizziness
  • Headache, neck or back
  • Jaw lock
  • Tooth wear

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(308) 382-8205

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office address

Downtown Dental
604 West 3rd Street
Grand Island, NE 68801
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