There’s a new orthodontist in town

SHARON — With more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Jeffrey Dixon has joined the practice of Dr. James Lovell (who has served the Sharon area for more than 25 years). 

In mid-March, Dixon began as an associate with Lovell, adding a Sharon practice to his existing practices in Simsbury and East Hartford. Because the East Hartford office is fairly self-sufficient, he said he will concentrate on Simsbury and Sharon. Similarly, Lovell practices in two locations: Sharon and West Hartford.

The present arrangement sets the stage for what Lovell calls “an orderly transition” in the distant future. Providing orthodontic treatment to a patient is often a two-year commitment, Lovell noted, and he likes to see patients through to the end of their treatment program.

“Patients are individuals,” Lovell said. “They need to be treated as such.”  

Both orthodontists stress the importance of developing relationships with the patient, and with the parents, if the patient is a child.

Lovell said, “We have parallel treatment philosophies.”

Today’s treatment options are not the treatment options of yesteryear. Invisalign and Damon techniques often eliminate the need for extractions, focusing on gradual improvement, with more time between office visits. Six to eight weeks between visits can be the norm. Both agree that newer procedures work and people end up with fewer long-term problems than occurred in the past.

In the 1970s, for example, patients had more cavities and preliminary dental work needed to be done before the straightening process could begin.

“It’s far less painful today,” Lovell added. 

Fear of costs should not discourage a visit, both dentists agree. Initial evaluations, including X-rays, are free.  

“We try to present everything at the first visit,” Lovell said, including the cost estimate. Beyond insurance, there is also in-office financing available with flexible terms.

The office atmosphere is welcoming and comfortable. Children can see their names on a board at the entrance, celebrating their visit. 

A fun focal point of the waiting room is a wire sculpture on the wall by Cornwall Bridge artist Peter Busby, who has interpreted a  Sandra Boynton drawing of a prehistoric “orthodon.” The orthodon is a charming dinosaur sporting perfect teeth and a winning smile.

Responding to a question about his youthful interest in physical therapy before going into orthodontics, Dixon said that he realized that the physical therapist’s results depend upon the practitioner’s skill and patient motivation, at the level found largely in sports medicine. Wanting to stay in the medical profession, he sought a fulfilling field of practice where motivation would be high among patients. 

Dixon reported that his hometown dentist advised him, “If you want to have a life, be a dentist. Dentistry is medicine that works.” He added that he also had a family member whom he admired, who was a dentist.

A skilled fly fisherman who ties his own flies, Dixon is frequently seen plying the waters between North Canaan and Kent, with frequent stops at Mudge Pond. His cell phone holds photos of recent catches including large-mouth bass, chain pickerel, sunfish and rock bass, all from local waters.

To schedule an appointment with either doctor or to learn more, call 860-364-5006.