Dr. Harrisons father was a pioneer and trailblazer orthodontist in the state Florida and the first to practice on the west coast, establishing his practice in St. Petersburg and Clearwater in 1931 at the height of the depression. Before WWII began Dr. Charles and two other orthodontist began the Florida Orthodontic Society, committing themselves to learning, sharing and building the profession at a very difficult time. This fledgling faithful group later became the Florida Orthodontic Association a component of the Southern and American Orthodontic Association where father and son have both served in leadership positions. John literally grew up knowing many top orthodontists of that era who enjoyed spending the weekend meetings with his dad and knew early on that he wanted to be an orthodontisst. No other practice and few local businesses can come close to claiming over 80 years of continuous commitment to the community and profession.
John graduated from St. Pete High, Vanderbilt, Emory Dental School and received his Masters Degree in Orthodontics from the University of North Carolina. He has maintained an active participation in dental education as courtesy professor of orthodontics at the University of Florida Dental Residency Program, Seminole campus since its inception in 1991and has also been a long time active member of the prestigious Seattle Study Club of Restorative Dentists, who meet once a month for advanced learning and multidisciplinary treatment planning. He recently served 8 years on the American Association of Orthodontists Council on Health Care and Code Committee and was awarded for Distinguished Service by the Southern Association for his authorship of the Insurance Manuel for Orthodontic Practice. Other Service awards come from the Florida Orthodontic Association, the Pinellas County Dental Association and the Rotary Club of St. Petersburg, a past president and board member of each organization..At present he is Rotarys Special Olympics Committee chairman.
Dr. John, a.k.a. dr. jaws to many kids is a Trustee for First United Methodist Church- one of the few life long members where Bible Study, Sunday School and the Scouting Program are his interests but home is blessed by over 50 years of marriage to a second grade North Ward sweetheart, three grown children and eight grandkids who all love the full range of boating and camping activities. Couldnt leave out two fun bands, The Awesome Second Time Arounders and the Second Winds where trombones rule.
Each member of our staff is highly qualified and together combines a total of more than 120 years of experience in the field of orthodontics! Most of these years have been spent at Dr. John B. Harrisons orthodontic offices in St. Petersburg and Largo, FL. We feel much like a family and look upon our patients as extended family members.
Suzanne, our clinical supervisor is state certified in all expanded orthodontic duties. Suzanne has worked with us since 1988 and is exceedingly well qualified and knowledgeable. She had 14 years orthodontic assisting experience before joining our staff.
Christi has been in the orthodontic profession since 1978 and has spent 28 of those years with us in Ohio. Christi is state certified in all ortho expanded duties. We are so fortunate she found us. She is our lab tech as well as a chair side assistant.
Though an orthodontist can enhance a smile at any age, there is an optimal time period to begin treatment. Beginning treatment at this time ensures the greatest result and the least amount of time and expense. The American Association of Orthodontists recommends that the initial orthodontic evaluation should occur at the first sign of orthodontic problems or no later than age 7. At this early age, orthodontic treatment may not be necessary, but vigilant examination can anticipate the most advantageous time to begin treatment.
Early evaluation provides both timely detection of problems and greater opportunity for more effective treatment. Prudent intervention guides growth and development, preventing serious problems later. When orthodontic intervention is not necessary, an orthodontist can carefully monitor growth and development and begin treatment when it is ideal.
By the age of 7, the first adult molars erupt, establishing the back bite. During this time, an orthodontist can evaluate front-to-back and side-to-side tooth relationships. For example, the presence of erupting incisors can indicate possible overbite, open bite, crowding or gummy smiles. Timely screening increases the chances for an incredible smile.
Orthodontics is not merely for improving the aesthetics of the smile; orthodontic treatment improves bad bites (malocclusions). Malocclusions occur as a result of tooth or jaw misalignment. Malocclusions affect the way you smile, chew, clean your teeth or feel about your smile.
According to studies by the American Association of Orthodontists, untreated malocclusions can result in a variety of problems. Crowded teeth are more difficult to properly brush and floss, which may contribute to tooth decay and/or gum disease. Protruding teeth are more susceptible to accidental chipping. Crossbites can result in unfavorable growth and uneven tooth wear. Openbites can result in tongue-thrusting habits and speech impediments. Ultimately, orthodontics does more than make a pretty smileit creates a healthier you.
Dr. John B. Harrison Orthodontics is conveniently located in St. Petersburg, Florida. Please use zoom controls and map type selection features to toggle map placements and viewing options. Enter your address in the directions finder box to receive driving directions from Google maps.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 68 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestChristian Pryor
2 years ago
Being introduced to Dr. Harrison by my mom, who is a current patient was, he is hands down the best orthodontist that I've ever seen. I had gone to several orthodontists, including Aspen Dentistry for a quote on Invisalign and was told that my teeth have "shifted up" and that I need to invest $4,000+ in Invisalign. The biggest deal breaker with Aspen was them telling me that if I don't invest now, my teeth would crack and Invisalign would be cheaper than the implants that I would surely need to buy at some point. Dr. Harrison reviewed my chart and not only disagreed with their pricing and pressure tactics, but it turns out that I don't even need treatment! I would have spent $4,000+ on something that I don't even need to meet the quote of a large corporations. If you want straightforward, professional, and empathetic treatment, you will be hard-pressed to find someone better than Dr. Harrison and his staff.
Katharine I
2 years ago
I don't think I've ever written a review before, but I had to make an exception for Dr. Harrison and his staff since they've gone out of their way for me time and time again. I'll start by saying I'm an atypical patient to begin with, as my very severe underbite could only be corrected with jaw surgery. On top of that, I experienced many setbacks in pursuit of this surgery due to covid and then having to find a new surgeon after my original surgeon unexpectedly dropped my health insurance carrier last minute (Dr. Harrison had already completed my pre-surgical orthodontic treatment months ahead of schedule). When this occurred, Dr. Harrison helped me search high and low for a new surgeon that he knew to be reputable and I'm very happy to say I'm now 5 weeks post-op and my results are amazing. Dr. Harrison has not only done great orthodontic work for me, but he's just a genuinely good human being who's not afraid to provide an honest opinion, even when it may not be something you want to hear. He will undoubtedly always act in your best interest and I really respect his honesty and integrity. Lastly, his office staff is excellent. In particular, Ellie is always there to help immediately when things don't go according to plan, as I experienced many times in pursuit of surgery. My advice is to choose Dr. Harrison - you won't regret it.
Katyc1011
2 years ago
I cannot compliment Dr. Harrison and staff enough. He is personally invested in each client and truly cares about the outcome. I had adult braces for a pretty complicated case, but Dr. Harrison - literally - set everything straight. If my son ever needs braces, I'll be back! I'd never even consider going anywhere else. Many, many thanks for the care I received from this office.
Andrea Taveras
2 years ago
Amazing!! I don't usually like to do reviews, however I feel that Dr Harrison deserves 5 stars. I was having a hard time finding an Orthodontic to remove my son braces without giving me excuses and try to charge me outrageous amount of money. Dr, Harrison took care of my son right away and charged me a fair price. Thank you so much for your great service!!
Walter Logan
2 years ago
Dr. Harrison is a OUTSTANDING doctor! Very personable and professional. He may have saved my life, through his help.
Susan Culbertson
2 years ago
I went to Dr. Harrison to discuss an issue with my bite and he explained the process and the options that were available. There were some real challenges along the way due to prior damage to a tooth, but he sent me to an endodontist before he even started, just to be safe. I can't tell you how much I appreciated his personal interest in my case and his concern about the right approach. After discussing everything thoroughly we moved forward and Dr. Harrison was able to correct my bite and straightened out a few teeth along the way! I also can't say enough about his "team," as they were absolutely wonderful to work with and a real asset to his practice. If you want to go to the best orthodontist in town, I would highly recommend that you make an appointment to meet Dr. Harrison. It was the best experience I have had in many years!
candice bridges
2 years ago
Dr. Harrison gave treat for my specific needs, I would recommend to any and all!!!
Liam Buttner
2 years ago
Dr Harrison is a root cause doctor, goodbye symptom management! He has a passion that's hard to find, his level of dedication to a patients overall health and focus on uncovering any dysfunction has been an inspiring experience for me and am extremely grateful for his diligence!
Corinne Tomczak
3 years ago
I met with Dr Harrison for a consult last week and he took a ton of time explaining the pluses and minuses of what I was seeking to accomplish with ortho. He thought about it and also consulted colleagues about my case and called me back a week later with great advice and a referral. I would recommend anyone to Dr Harrison without question.
Demaun Bridges
3 years ago
If you want your teeth done right this is the guy. Dr. Harrison you're the best.
Sarah Parker
3 years ago
Dr. Harrison and his staff are the nicest, most understanding and professional people I have come across in awhile! Dr. Harrison personally called me the day after my daughter got her braces on to make sure everything was going OK and see if I had any questions. He also gave me his cell phone number and told me not to hesitate to call if I needed anything. Suzanne, who deals with the billing, was very patient and understanding when I needed a few extra days to clear up an issue with my FSA card before paying the deposit. All around great people and a great practice. I highly recommend!
Elizabeth Ingraham
3 years ago
I consulted Dr. Harrison for a sleep appliance for my sleep apnea. He is a caring and experienced dentist who has is a sleep expert and who has a deep knowledge of sleep issues and how to address them. He took the time to fit me with my appliance and to adjust it. The result is that my sleep has improved immensely. I'm grateful for Dr. Harrison's knowledge, care and experience.
Liam Buttner
3 years ago
Dr Harrison is a root cause doctor, goodbye symptom management! He has a passion that's hard to find, his level of dedication to a patients overall health and focus on uncovering any dysfunction has been an inspiring experience for me and am extremely grateful for his diligence!
Demaun Bridges
3 years ago
If you want your teeth done right this is the guy. Dr. Harrison you're the best.
Sarah Parker
3 years ago
Dr. Harrison and his staff are the nicest, most understanding and professional people I have come across in awhile! Dr. Harrison personally called me the day after my daughter got her braces on to make sure everything was going OK and see if I had any questions. He also gave me his cell phone number and told me not to hesitate to call if I needed anything. Suzanne, who deals with the billing, was very patient and understanding when I needed a few extra days to clear up an issue with my FSA card before paying the deposit. All around great people and a great practice. I highly recommend!
Amanda D
3 years ago
Dr. Harrison is amazing. He and his staff are so welcoming and you feel like part of the family. This isn't one of those get you in and out type of businesses that seem to just look at the money side of things. Dr. Harrison will talk your ear off about everything you need to know and is incredibly knowledgeable in his field. I'm already feeling better about my smile within just a year. The office even sends out hand written cards for the holidays, which just warms my heart. And during a rough patch, Dr. Harrison sent me a hand written letter of inspiration. Words cannot describe how great this place is and the people are. Don't think about it, just go. You will not regret it one bit.
Darren Farris
3 years ago
Dr. John Harrison, Orthodontist, is an absolutely AMAZING orthodontist in St. Pete. He has treated me and my family with his vast experience and wisdom. Every dentist and dental hygienist I know, 5 of them, all say Dr. John Harrison is the best orthodontist in St. Pete, hands down.
Elizabeth Ingraham
3 years ago
I consulted Dr. Harrison for a sleep appliance for my sleep apnea. He is a caring and experienced dentist who has is a sleep expert and who has a deep knowledge of sleep issues and how to address them. He took the time to fit me with my appliance and to adjust it. The result is that my sleep has improved immensely. I'm grateful for Dr. Harrison's knowledge, care and experience.
Sue Nance
3 years ago
My experience with Dr. Harrison and his staff was great! My crowns and bridges were a challenge, but he always found a way to prevail. The office is well run, and I never had an appointment canceled or trouble getting a convenient time. I highly recommend Dr. John B Harrison.
Morgan Gresham
3 years ago
Dr. Harrison and his team are a wonderful, caring group. Excellent work!
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