February 21st, 2012

“Dentists, Orthodontists, they’re all the same right?” We hear our patients asking this question as they wonder about the difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. Before becoming an orthodontist, Drs. Michael Ellis and Henry Dutson started out in dental school and earned a DDS (dental degree), just like your dentist. After dental school however, Drs. Michael Ellis and Henry Dutson decided to learn more about orthodontics, which is one of nine specialties within the dental field. So they each stayed in school for a few more years and became an expert in orthodontics, which focuses on tooth and jaw alignment and bite problems like overbites and under bites.
Other dental specialties you may have heard of include endodontic (focusing on the soft tissue inside your teeth), periodontic (focusing on the gums and other tissues surrounding your teeth) and prosthodontic (focusing on restoring and replacing damaged teeth).
Isn’t it nice to know there’s a complete dental expert here at Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics to help you through any type of treatment your teeth, jaw and gums might need?
Tags: Dr. Henry Dutson, Dr. Michael Ellis, Dutson and Ellis Orthodontics, Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics, Lorton Virginia orthodontist
Posted in About Our Office, Orthodontics, dentist, fun facts, orthodontist | No Comments »
February 13th, 2012

Cold and flu season is here yet again. The folks at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that a common cold usually includes sneezing, runny nose, sore throat and coughing. Symptoms can last for up to two weeks.
To promote a healthy and clean environment, Drs. Michael Ellis and Henry Dutson and our entire staff give a great deal of attention to sanitation and sterilization in our office at all times, as well as following all requirements for sterilizing instruments and work surfaces. For the protection of other patients and our staff at Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics, we always ask that patients reschedule their appointments if they have any type of cold or illness that can infect others.
And remember to constantly wash your hands and avoid contact with those who are ill! Stay Healthy!
Tags: Dr. Henry Dutson, Dutson and Ellis Orthodontics, Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics, Lorton Virginia orthodontist
Posted in About Our Office, Cold and Flu Season, Orthodontics, oral hygiene, orthodontist | No Comments »
February 7th, 2012
One in four parents says their child has had an injury during an organized sport resulting in a trip to the emergency room, according to the American Association of Orthodontists, or AAO. That’s why Drs. Michael Ellis and Henry Dutson and team at Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics thought February—also known as National Children’s Dental Health Month—would be a great time to remind our patients to be mindful of their braces and teeth while playing sports. Here are a few tips to stay safe on the field this spring, courtesy of the AAO:
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Wear mouth guards for contact sports such as baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.
- Wear a helmet
- Wear protective eyewear
- Wear a face shield to avoid scratched or bruised skin
- Be alert, even as a spectator
We hope that helps. Protective gear is vital for anyone engaging in tooth or mouth-threatening activities. If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please contact Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics. Stay safe and have fun!
Tags: Dr. Michael Ellis, Dutson and Ellis Orthodontics, Ellis and Dutson Orthodontics
Posted in National Orthodontic Health Month, Orthodontics, orthodontist | No Comments »