Why Pearson Orthodontics?
- Our Philosophy- As a private practice, our goal at Pearson Orthodontics is to provide the highest quality care in professional, friendly and caring manner. We pledge to be informed of current orthodontic research and techniques. It is of the utmost importance to effectively educate and communicate to our patients and fellow staff members. It is also very important to do what we can to help our patients feel positive about themselves and their treatment. We want their experience in our office to be as pleasant and comfortable as possible!
- One doctor and one location to care for you and your family on a more personal level
- Dr. Pearson is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics as a lifetime Diplomate (Only 33% of orthodontists are Board Certified)
- Team members who are fun, friendly, courteous and have a combined 236 years of experience
- Complimentary initial exam
- On-site state-of-the art orthodontic records facility that consist of impressions, digital Itero Scanner, digital x-rays and digital photos that are included in your treatment
- On-site orthodontic lab that ensures quality retainers and appliances are made in a timely manner
- Use Indirect bonding technique that is the most accurate method of applying braces and helps decrease treatment time and improves quality Office hours that accommodate your busy lifestyle
- Located next to several major freeways making us readily accessible to all metro area suburbs
- Flexible payment options to meet your financial needs.
Common Malocclusions
If your teeth or jaws do not fit together correctly, you may need orthodontic treatment to fix the issue. Without treatment, orthodontic problems like the ones featured below – also known as malocclusions – can cause premature tooth wear and enamel loss, speech difficulties, tooth and jaw injury, and more.
Underbite
An underbite is when the lower jaw extends too far out, causing your lower front teeth to sit in front of your upper front teeth.
Overbite
An overbite is when your upper front teeth extend too far out over your lower front teeth, often causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of your mouth. Other issues associated with overbite include excessive tooth wear, protruding lips, and a “gummy” smile.
Crossbite
A crossbite is when a portion of your upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause misaligned tooth and jaw growth. You likely move your lower jaw forward or to the side when you close your mouth, which can also alter your facial symmetry.
Openbite
An open bite is when your upper and lower front teeth do not overlap. An open bite may cause tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, improper chewing, and other unwanted habits. Early evaluation and treatment are essential to correcting an open bite.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
When your upper teeth extend too far forward – or your lower teeth do not extend forward enough – it can impact the appearance and function of your entire mouth.
Crowding
Crowding is when your teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gumline. Because it’s more difficult to clean overlapping tooth surfaces, crowding is often linked to dental decay and periodontal issues. Crowding is also the most common reason for braces.
Spacing
Spacing issues are often caused by missing teeth or excessive jaw room for erupting teeth. Spacing is another popular reason for braces.
Dental Midlines Do Not Match
When the centerline of your upper teeth does not match the centerline of your lower teeth, this misalignment can impact how your teeth and jaws function.
Oral Hygiene
You’ve got braces and now it’s time to take care of them! Once your braces are in place, it’s very important to follow a consistent oral hygiene regimen throughout your treatment.
Braces, wires, bands, and retainers can all trap food particles, making it even more difficult to brush or floss away plaque. Careful brushing and flossing – ideally after every meal or snack – is the best way to prevent plaque buildup, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Brushing with Braces
Brush your teeth at least 4X each day to prevent food particles and plaque from building up in and under your braces during orthodontic treatment. You should brush:
- After breakfast
- After lunch or school
- After dinner
- At bedtime
Flossing with Braces
Flossing will take more time and patience when you are wearing braces, but be sure to floss every day – preferably at night to ensure that your teeth are clean before you go to sleep.
You will need to use a floss threader to floss under the archwires of your braces. Place a length of floss through the threader, then slide it up and down along the front of each tooth. Try not to floss too forcefully or put too much pressure on the archwires. We will demonstrate how to do this at your appointment.
Using Antiseptic Mouthrinse
We recommend using an antiseptic mouthrinse that contains hydrogen peroxide to reduce inflammation in your gums and cheeks during treatment. This rinse should help prevent infection and decrease irritation that develops from your appliances. You can also use the rinse for canker sores, cheek bites, or other minor injuries to the gums.
Swish two teaspoons of the rinse in your mouth for one minute, then spit it out. You can use the rinse up to four times each day, ideally after brushing (see above!).
Using an Interdental Toothbrush
An interdental (between the teeth) toothbrush is used to clean around and underneath your braces and archwires. Use the interdental toothbrush gently to avoid damage.
Applying Topical Fluoride
We also recommend using a sodium fluoride gel to help prevent tooth decay during treatment. The gel kills bacteria and replaces minerals in your tooth enamel that are removed by the harmful acids in your mouth.
Place a small strip of fluoride gel on a toothbrush and apply it to your teeth for one minute, then spit it out. For best results, do not eat, drink, or rinse for 30 minutes afterward to allow the gel’s active ingredient to remain on your teeth.
Note: using a fluoride gel should never replace daily brushing and flossing. Instead, make it part of your oral hygiene regimen at bedtime.
Cleaning Your Removable Appliance
Food particles and plaque can quickly accumulate on your removable appliance, just like they do on your teeth. Gently brush your appliance with cold water and toothpaste every day as part of your regular brushing and flossing schedule.
Before & After
FAQ
Do I need a referral from my family dentist to see an orthodontist?
When should I schedule an appointment for my child’s first orthodontic screening?
Do teeth straighten out as they grow?
How do I schedule an appointment for an initial orthodontic exam?
What happens during an initial orthodontic exam?
What can I expect to learn from my initial orthodontic exam?
Here are four essential questions that we will cover during your initial exam:
- Do you have an orthodontic concern, and if so, what is it?
- What can we do to correct the problem?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- How much will the treatment cost?