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 problem. Left untreated, orthodontic problems like the ones below – also known as malocclusions – can cause premature tooth wear and enamel loss, speech difficulties, increase your chance of tooth and jaw injury, and more.
Underbite
An underbite is when the lower jaw extends too far out, causing the lower front teeth to sit in front of the upper front teeth.
Overbite
With an overbite, the upper front teeth extend too far out over the lower front teeth, sometimes causing the lower front teeth to bite into the roof of the mouth. Issues associated with overbite include excessive tooth wear, protruding lips, and a “gummy” smile.
Crossbite
Crossbite occurs when a portion of the upper teeth sit inside the lower teeth, which may cause misaligned tooth and jaw growth. To close the mouth, a patient with crossbite usually moves their lower jaw forward or the side. This incorrect bite results in improper use of the lower jaws and can alter facial symmetry.
Openbite
Open bite is when the 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 open bite.
Upper Front Teeth Protrusion
When upper teeth extend too far forward – or lower teeth do not extend forward enough – it can impact the appearance and function of all teeth.
Crowding
Crowding is when teeth have insufficient room to erupt from the gums. Because it is 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 can be caused by missing teeth or excessive jaw room for erupting teeth. Spacing is another popular reason for braces.
Unmatched Dental Midlines
Unmatched dental midlines are evident when the back bite does not fit appropriately. This type of malocclusion can negatively impact jaw function and proper dental function.
Oral Hygiene
Once your new braces are in place, it is very important to maintain a good 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 – perfect 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 four times each day to prevent food particles and plaque from accumulating in your teeth and braces during orthodontic treatment.
- 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 bed.
You must use a floss threader to floss under the archwire 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 around the archwire or put too much pressure on it.
Using Antiseptic Mouthrinse
To reduce inflammation in your gums and checks, we recommend using an antiseptic mouthrinse that contains hydrogen peroxide. This rinse should help prevent infection and decrease any irritation that develops from your braces, canker sores, cheek bites, or other minor injuries to the gums.
Swish two teaspoons of the hydrogen peroxide rinse in your mouth for one minute, then spit it out. You may use the rinse up to four times daily, ideally after brushing.
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
Using a sodium fluoride gel can help prevent tooth decay while you have braces. The gel kills bacteria while replacing the minerals in your tooth enamel removed by harmful acids. Using a fluoride gel should never replace daily brushing and flossing. Instead, make it part of your oral hygiene regimen at bedtime.
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 stay on your teeth.
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
Does my family dentist have to refer me to 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 will happen during an initial orthodontic exam?
What can I expect to learn from an initial orthodontic exam?
Here are five essential questions that we will cover during your initial exam:
- Do you have an orthodontic problem, and if so, what is it?
- What can we do to correct the problem?
- Will you need to have any teeth extracted?
- How long will the treatment take to complete?
- How much will the treatment cost?