Dentistry, and specifically orthodontics, has been a great profession for me. While I enjoyed my time as a general dentist, I find that orthodontics is exponentially more challenging and rewarding. It provides a unique opportunity to combine the science behind orthodontics with the chairside skills Ive learned day to day to create beautiful smiles. Working with so many people, both kids and adults, has taught me patience and opened my eyes to different ideas and experiences. With my younger patients, I enjoy talking to them, learning from them, and watching them navigate the years of junior high and high school. I feel it is a privilege to help my patients feel better about themselves and boost their self-confidence.

I am passionate about the lifelong learning experience that is orthodontics. I enjoy learning, improving, and making a difference in the lives of those around me. I began my journey to orthodontics at the University of Missouri for my undergraduate degree. Both my Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Master of Science in orthodontics were completed at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Every year, I complete far more than the required amount of continuing education to stay current with the newest technologies and research in order to offer the latest in innovative treatments for my patients. Doing so allows me to offer an orthodontic experience that is quicker, more comfortable, and produces more remarkable results.

A native of Kansas City, MO, I have happily made Mount Airy my home. My goal has always been to excel in everything that I do. From raising my daughter, Anna, to running the practice, to racing bikes, I try to do everything to the best of my ability.

I am also interested in helping people when I can, whether it comes in the form of orthodontic treatment or just day to day life. I support our local community by sponsoring boys and girls youth soccer and volleyball teams, the local food pantry, the Salvation army, and cycling and running events that benefit various Mount Airy charities.

Amanda enjoys meeting new patients and getting to know them as she welcomes them into the practice and walks them through their first visit. She also works chairside with Dr. Peterson to deliver excellent patient care while learning about our patients interests and hobbies, and hearing about their lives. She loves seeing how happy patients are when theyre finished with treatment.

Working alongside Dr. Peterson with patient care is Buffy, one of our dental assistants. Joining our team a few years ago, Buffys smile is a welcome sight to our patients who have gotten to know her. She shares in our patients excitement at the end of treatment and loves to see so many happy, smiling faces leave our office.

Heather spends a lot of her day assisting Dr. Peterson with patient care. Her focus is always on the patients comfort and making the orthodontic process as pleasant as possible. Heathers favorite aspect of her job is building personal relationships with our patients. She loves helping people smile with confidence!

Heather has been married to her husband Jonathan for eight years. They have six beautiful daughters, two dogs, and one cat. Heather spends her free time working out at the gym with her husband and hanging out with her children. She and Jonathan also pastor an awesome church called CORCC and are very active in helping the community.

Janet has a very close family. Her husband, Bob, teaches at Surry Community College, so some of our patients have him in class. Janet has one daughter, a son-in-law, and two grandchildren who are the joys of her life. Janet also loves animals and has volunteered at animal events throughout the community.

Lisa assists Dr. Peterson with all aspects of patient care while making sure each patient is comfortable and happy whenever they are in the office. She started working with Dr. Peterson in 2004, but shes been with our practice since 1991. Lisas favorite aspect of her job is watching each patients confidence grow as their smile improves. She loves the hands-on interactions and personal relationships that are built over the course of treatment.

Don't worry! Braces aren't nearly as scary as you may think. In fact, braces today come in a variety of styles, materials, and colors, making life with braces much easier, more comfortable, and even more stylish than in the past.

Orthodontic braces are a big part of life for many people your age. While braces may have had a bad reputation in the past, today's braces make it easy to look good and feel good! Please contact our practice to schedule your next orthodontic checkup.

Orthodontic treatment is no longer just for teens. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontists states that one in five orthodontic patients is over the age of 21. Many adults are choosing to receive treatment because they understand the importance of maintaining their health, and they want to feel better about their appearance. Adults everywhere are taking advantage of the opportunity to receive orthodontic care, and now you can too.

For many adults, the thought of having metal braces is enough to discourage them from receiving treatment. However, today's orthodontic treatment options offer a variety of braces and appliances that are comfortable, aesthetic, and customized to meet your needs. Types of braces include:

The main difference to remember when treating adults or children and teens, is that in younger patients the jawbones are still developing. For adults, these bones have stopped growing, which may mean the possibility of orthognathic surgery to align the jawbones. Other differences include:

Our practice also recognizes that adults and children have different needs, and require a different level of attention and care. We will work with you to ensure that you receive the most appropriate treatments, and that your needs are met with understanding and respect from us.