Dr. Summer Gutschow, DDS, didn’t always envision herself in dentistry. Originally pursuing a pre-law track, a pivotal visit to a law firm followed by time spent in her longtime dentist’s office revealed where she truly belonged.
Drawn to the artistic, hands-on nature of dental care and inspired by her parents’ fear of dental visits, she committed early to creating a practice that feels both beautiful and comforting.
Today, through Innovative Dental Care, she blends clinical expertise, ongoing advanced training and a deeply personal approach to patient care that prioritizes total wellness and meaningful connection.
A Vision Beyond Traditional Dentistry
From its earliest planning stages, Innovative Dental Care was designed to feel more like a welcoming home than a clinical setting. Years of intentional design choices centered on one goal: reducing anxiety and creating comfort for every patient who walks through the door.
“I've always loved creating art, but I wanted to do something more than just make art,” Dr. Summer says.
Her philosophy centers on treating root causes rather than simply addressing symptoms. Dentistry, she believes, provides a powerful window into overall health.
"Going to the dentist is a really great opportunity to get a sneak peek into your total well-being,” Dr. Summer explains.
Every element of the office reinforces that approach. From calming window treatments and individualized music options in each room to consistent systems of care that ensure smooth, predictable visits, the environment is carefully curated to replace fear with reassurance and even moments of joy.
“Every area we designed was built around comfort,” Dr. Summer says.
Dentistry as a Gateway to Total Health
Routine appointments at Innovative Dental Care extend far beyond cleanings and cavity checks. Each six-month visit includes comprehensive oral cancer screenings and examinations that can reveal broader health concerns, from sleep apnea and sinus issues to acid reflux and head or neck abnormalities.
The practice also emphasizes emerging research linking oral health to systemic conditions, helping patients understand what happens in the mouth affects the entire body.
“The more we know about ourselves, the better we can advocate for ourselves,” Dr. Summer notes. “I think knowledge is power in any vein of life, but especially when it comes to our wellness.”
A Focus on Airway and Sleep Health
One of Dr. Summer’s strongest passions is airway-focused dentistry. Many patients arrive with chronic tension, fatigue or disrupted sleep without realizing their symptoms may be linked to breathing or airway issues.
“There are so many people that struggle with symptoms and don’t fully understand where they are coming from,” she says.
Rather than defaulting to stronger night guards for clenching and grinding, she investigates underlying causes such as sleep-disordered breathing or sleep apnea.
“We can see the why, rather than just treating the symptoms,” Dr. Summer explains, reflecting the practice’s broader commitment to uncovering root causes and empowering patients through education.
Comfort, Confidence and Inclusive Care
Recognizing how common dental anxiety can be, Innovative Dental Care offers a layered approach to comfort. From personalized support options and sedation services to a calming environment and empathetic staff, the practice strives to make care accessible for even the most fearful patients. The goal is simple yet powerful: every patient deserves to feel seen, respected and welcomed.
Where Science Meets Art
While deeply committed to health-focused dentistry, Dr. Summer also embraces the transformative power of esthetics. Advanced training in cosmetic procedures and smile design allows her to blend clinical precision with artistic vision.
“I think my passion also comes from making things pretty,” she explains. “I love doing smile design makeovers.”
For many patients, restoring a smile goes beyond appearance.
“Sometimes people come in and they're ashamed of their smile. To see somebody smile with all of their teeth and be so proud of their smile, that's a powerful thing to get to contribute to,” Dr. Summer says.
Innovative Dental Care offers custom porcelain veneers, ceramic coverings bonded to the front of existing teeth to improve color, shape and symmetry, often correcting concerns such as chips, discoloration or uneven spacing.
Each patient's journey toward their dream smile begins with a comprehensive evaluation of oral health and a personalized treatment plan, allowing Dr. Summer to design veneers that complement the patient’s features while maintaining a natural look and feel.
Temporary veneers provide a preview of the final result before permanent restorations are bonded and polished, creating a seamless transformation.
A Practice Built on People
Innovative Dental Care’s culture is shaped not only by its philosophy but also by its close-knit team. Hygienists and support staff each bring distinct strengths, from patient education and preventive care to calming reassurance for anxious visitors. Together, they create a cohesive environment where patients often build lasting relationships and feel genuinely cared for.
The result is a dental home that blends advanced clinical care, whole-body health awareness and authentic human connection. At Innovative Dental Care, appointments are no longer something to dread but an opportunity to feel informed, supported and confident in both health and smile.
Patients can explore services, meet the team and request appointments online at www.identalomaha.com. Whether seeking preventive care, esthetic dentistry or answers to underlying health concerns, Dr. Summer Gutschow and her team are committed to helping every patient feel informed, comfortable and confident in their care.
“Going to the dentist is a great opportunity to get a sneak peek into your total well-being. The more we know, the better we can advocate for ourselves.”
"To see somebody smile with all of their teeth and be so proud of their smile, that's a powerful thing to get to contribute to."