Peterson Orthodontics, Ltd.

Merrill Essex

This place used to be run by Joseph T Hicken, one of the kindest and most talented health care professionals I’ve ever known. He worked on my teeth and on both my daughter and son from the time they were tiny kids until they went to college. When Dr. Hicken retired, Peterson bought him out and it doesn’t remotely resemble the previous practice. The first time I went for a repair to my permanent retainer they informed me that the fee was $150 for a repair that was previously $35. “This is what we charge all our patients”, the receptionist said , as I objected to the huge difference in fees. I refused to pay 5x the price I had been paying and Peterson said he would offer me a discounted price as a transition, $75! He tried to sell me on taking out the permanent retainers that have been holding my teeth in place for nearly 20 years with periodic minor repairs and replacing them with some undoubtedly expensive removable retainers. The second time I needed a repair it was the same deal. Same sales job too, same repair priced at double. A very strange atmosphere prevails here.

The staff are stilted, officious and unfriendly, in contrast to the light hearted and upbeat atmosphere when Dr. Hicken ran the practice. One assistant who remained after the practice changed hands told me under her breath how horrible the work environment had become. But today I decided I would never come back. I had an appointment for a small retainer repair. I mentioned while I was seated in the waiting area that I needed special support for my head due to a medical condition. The assistant ushered me back saying they would try to help me out. I took a seat. The examination chairs were very uncomfortable with no head support. I asked for a pillow but none was supplied.

The dr came in, put his mirror in my mouth to try to see the problem, then announced he couldn’t work on me in my condition and I should come back when I’m better. He promptly left through the back door. On the way out the receptionist informed me there was a $75 charge for today. She says, “we charge for any office visit. ” I said he did nothing and I wasn’t going to pay for nothing and furthermore I wasn’t coming back. What an opportunist! They had an opportunity to make me into a satisfied customer transitioning from the prior practice but clearly only saw me as a source of revenue. It’s clear to me that this guy only cares about making a buck and has no customer relationship skills. Avoid this practice at all cost!!

March 14, 2019

Mindy Heidekat

Dr. Peterson combines engineering and artistry. As an adult who finally bit the bullet to have braces again, I was very happy with the results. I wasn’t a candidate for Invisalign, so went with conventional “clear” braces.

Did I enjoy having braces? NO! Would I do it again? YES! Dr. Peterson and his staff are personable and professional. He listened to me and worked with me to achieve a smile that I’m very happy with. My only regret: I should have done my bottom teeth too!

September 2, 2019

Stephanie Peterson

I was very pleased with my treatment at Peterson Orthodontics. I previously had orthodontic treatment during my teenage years at a different practice in California. I failed to wear my retainer regularly and as a result my bottom teeth became very crooked. I was so embarrassed by my smile that I decided to get work done with Dr. Peterson.

He fixed my smile in less than a year and installed a permanent retainer. Dr. Peterson was very knowledgeable, professional and honest. I highly recommend him to anyone considering orthodontic treatment. 😁

April 10, 2019

Jean Martino

All of our children have been patients of Dr. Peterson, who is professional and courteous. The office staff is friendly and helpful in maneuvering insurance, appointment changes, and unexpected issues with wires, brackets or retainers. The care has been great, even alerting us to other oral conditions that we needed to monitor or treat, whether with our own doctor, or a recommendation to an oral surgeon, etc.

Dr. Peterson welcomes patients to contact him with any issues that occur, even after the course of treatment is completed. Totally recommend!

July 9, 2019