As a child, Dr. Cottingham always thought she would pursue a career in the healthcare field, but it was ultimately orthodontics that grabbed her full attention. The results achieved through the orthodontic process are truly amazing, especially when it restores a person's confidence in his/her smile.
Today, Dr. Cottingham enjoys getting to know and helping all the wonderful families who visit her office. She strives to make every minute of the day enjoyable for her patients and staff with her warm and fun-loving personality. Dr. Cottingham is truly thankful to have one of the most rewarding jobs in the world, and she shares that enthusiasm and spirit with everyone she meets.
A strong foundation of education and professional experience is important to instill the confidence and trust of our patients. Originally a native of Alabama, Dr. Cottingham received her bachelor's degree in 1991 from Troy University, in Troy, Alabama. She achieved her doctor of dental medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 1995, and practiced general dentistry for one year at the Veterans' Administration hospitals in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, Alabama.
In 1996, Dr. Cottingham moved to Indiana to work on her master's degree in orthodontics at Indiana University School of Dentistry in Indianapolis. She achieved her master's degree in 1998 and resided as faculty until joining Clemons Orthodontics in 1999, working closely with Dr. Larry Clemons. Dr. Clemons retired in 2003 and Cottingham Orthodontics was born, with two offices on the west side of Indianapolis, one near 38th Street/I-465 and one in Avon, Indiana.
To provide our patients with state-of-the-art smiles and the latest treatment techniques, Dr. Cottingham is an active member of several local, regional and national dental and orthodontic organizations, including the American Association of Orthodontists, the Great Lakes Association of Orthodontists, the Indiana Association of Orthodontists, the American and Indiana Dental Associations, and the Indianapolis District Dental Society. She exceeds the annual continuing education courses required by the profession.
Giving back to the community is one of Dr. Cottingham's passions. She donates time, money, and orthodontic services to Smiles Change Lives, Give Kids a Smile, and Donated Dental Services. Over the years, she has also granted several wishes for children of the Make-a-Wish Foundation. In addition, Dr. Cottingham supports many local philanthropic organizations, including Special Olympics of Indiana, Riley Hospital for Children, Sheltering Wings (Hendricks County domestic abuse shelter), United Way, Shop-with-a-Cop (providing school supplies for underprivileged children), and several community school, band, and sports programs.
Dr. Cottingham and her husband live in northwest Indianapolis. They enjoy traveling and food together, especially any opportunity to combine the two! Whenever possible, these native Southerners love to escape cold Indiana winters and trek to warm places such as Puerto Rico or Florida. The Cottingham 's also have a passion for music, performing occasionally in a 'garage band' with friends to raise money for charity. Dr. Cottingham loves to sing, so it is not uncommon for patients to get serenaded while in the orthodontic chair!
Our friendly experienced team is always caring and accommodating to our patients. If you or your family have been to our office in the past, you will certainly recognize the many familiar faces. Most of our staff have been with our office for over 15 years, some up to 35 years. They have seen multiple generations of families over the years, treating kids, parents, and grandparents. Their combined experience of over 95 years represents their commitment to our patients and to each other. You can be confident that those familiar faces will be there for you on your next visit. And you'll love the wonderful atmosphere they create, as they are always finding ways to make our patients happy and comfortable, while providing the highest level of service possible.
Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance.
Dr. Cottingham loves her adult patients and solving the sometimes challenging orthodontic issues they may have. She especially enjoys working with a team of dental professionals, such as a restorative dentist, oral surgeon and/or periodontist to treat complex cases. You are never too old for braces Dr. Cottingham has many patients who are in their 50's, 60' and 70's.
The main difference between treating adults and children or teens is that the jawbones of younger patients are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may make orthognathic surgery necessary to align the jawbones. Other differences include:
Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.
For many adults, the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage them from receiving treatment. Cottingham Orthodontics offers clear ceramic braces, and many of our patients tell us their family and friends didn't even notice the braces!
Adults often ask, 'Will my treatment take longer because I am older?' Most of the time the answer is 'No.' The majority of our adult patients are treated in the same time frame as our teenage patients. However, adults can certainly have other complicating factors that may extend treatment time or limit what can be accomplished. Sometimes in these situations, adults may choose to have limited vs. comprehensive treatment to address specific issues only.