About Us

About Dr. Cotton

While it is customary for a website biography to simply mention Dr Cotton’s affiliations with multiple dental associations, those relationships don’t effectively explain how she came to be so devoted to her chosen career. Dr. Cotton has not experienced a conventional dental career. To date, this lifelong passion has traveled with her over 45 years in 7 states.

Her first academic milestone was a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from the University of Louisville; this was followed by nearly 20 years of experience as a registered hygienist in Kentucky, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Indiana.  An avid thirst for knowledge eventually pulled her into post-graduate curriculum. She subsequently dedicated another four years of study to the University of Kentucky, and received her Doctor of Dental Medicine in the summer of 1993.

Doctor Cotton became a commissioned officer with the US Public Health Service while in dental school, and her first assignment as a lieutenant was in the heart of the Navajo Nation. During these early stages of a new career, she readily identified the most satisfying part of her job was tending to the diverse needs of children.

The USPHS selected her for advanced training, and in July of 1996, Dr. Cotton embarked on a two year pediatric residency at the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Cotton receive her Master’s Degree, Certificates in Pediatric Dentistry and PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support) while at Baylor.

After retirement from the USPHS, in 2008, Dr Cotton took on a new challenge and opened her pediatric practice in Gilbert, AZ.  She has worked tirelessly to develop a practice that focuses on preventative dentistry rather than restorative treatment.  

Dr Cotton recognizes that consistent examinations and highly-personalized discussions will ensure every individual can truly enjoy maintaining their oral health. It cannot be overstated how much each patient (and parent) benefits by an unparalleled amount of one-on-one time with her.

In her free time, Dr Cotton enjoys reading, gardening and relaxing in her hammock. She is most proud of her two children, Katherine a graduate from the University Of Kentucky College Of Dentistry (www.beitingdental.com); and John a graduate from the University of Arizona College of Architecture and Landscape.  Her favorite past-time is of course, spending time with her 5 fantastic, fun, and busy grandchildren.

Make an appointment today and come see our beautiful office!  (480) 963-4636