expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Shawn Paul Pesh, D.D.S., M.S.

Orthodontist

Dr. Shawn Pesh practices Orthodontics in Menifee, Murrieta and Temecula, CA. Comprehensive orthodontic treatment includes metal wires that are inserted into orthodontic brackets, which can be made from stainless steel or a more aesthetic ceramic material. The wires interact with the brackets to move teeth into desired positions. Being advanced in the field, Dr. Pesh may also use Invisalign or other aligner trays that have been designed to align a patients smile. As an orthodontist, Dr. Pesh must recognize various characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial deformity, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology if possible, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of the patient.
23 years Experience
Dr. Shawn Paul Pesh, D.D.S., M.S.
  • Murrieta, CA
  • Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
  • Accepting new patients

How is an overbite usually treated?

Overbites can also be treated with clear aligner therapy.

How do I know if my child needs braces?

Orthodontists are less concerned about excessive overbite (vertical overlap of the front teeth) at age 8 compared to excessive overjet (horizontal overlap of the front teeth). READ MORE
Orthodontists are less concerned about excessive overbite (vertical overlap of the front teeth) at age 8 compared to excessive overjet (horizontal overlap of the front teeth). It's very possible that your orthodontist may choose to wait before starting treatment unless she is experiencing palatal impingement with tissue attachment loss.

A part of my tooth that should be in the gums is visibly out. What can be done to treat it?

Sounds like you're describing gum recession. A tissue grafting procedure is the most common treatment. We typically see this when patients brush their gums too hard or if the teeth READ MORE
Sounds like you're describing gum recession. A tissue grafting procedure is the most common treatment. We typically see this when patients brush their gums too hard or if the teeth are being over-loaded when chewing. I would recommend visiting an orthodontist to make sure the underlying cause of the recession is identified before making an investment.

Can thumbsucking cause changes in the shape of the teeth?

Thumb sucking can definitely change the shape of the palate and the alignment of the teeth. It should not change the shape of the individual teeth. I would recommend an orthodontic READ MORE
Thumb sucking can definitely change the shape of the palate and the alignment of the teeth. It should not change the shape of the individual teeth. I would recommend an orthodontic screening to evaluate your daughter's airway. We commonly find kids with thumb sucking habits have large adenoids/tonsils, deviated septums and/oor allergies which can contribute to this habit.

Is there any replacement for braces to get the perfect smile?

Clear braces and clear aligner therapy work fantastic for many of our patients.

How is overcrowding of the teeth corrected?

You may be a good candidate for clear aligner therapy. Otherwise investing in a retainer could be a viable option to prevent additional overcrowding.

How long does it take for teeth to set with retainers?

You'll need to wear retainers for as long as you want to keep your teeth straight. Everybody is different on how many nights per week they need to wear them long term. Some people READ MORE
You'll need to wear retainers for as long as you want to keep your teeth straight. Everybody is different on how many nights per week they need to wear them long term. Some people need to wear them 7 nights per week while others can go days in between. The truth is your teeth will move your entire life whether you had braces or not.

My son is 8 years and his permanent teeth are crooked. Is it too early to go to an orthodontist?

Absolutely not. The American Association of Orthodontist recommends that all children should get an orthodontic screening by age 7 (8 is great and 9 is fine).

Can clenching my teeth cause them to erode?

Yes. What you're describing sounds like an abfraction lesion due to over-loading

I have recently got my braces fixed and they seem to be cutting into the skin of my mouth. What to do?

Try using some orthodontic wax on the braces which are causing the issue. Rinsing with warm salt water can also be very soothing and helpful.

After removing my braces, my cheeks have swollen up. What could be the reason?

This is atypical. Please consult your orthodontist and/or physician.

After five weeks of completing my braces treatment my tooth hurts.

This is atypical. Please consult with your orthodontist.

Does having braces hurt?

It's common to experience soreness when your teeth are starting to move. It's a similar feeling to when you go to the gym and exercise muscles you're not used to using. The soreness READ MORE
It's common to experience soreness when your teeth are starting to move. It's a similar feeling to when you go to the gym and exercise muscles you're not used to using. The soreness is typically transient and usually subsides within a couple of days.

I wear my retainer, so why are my teeth still shifting?

For the time being, keep wearing your retainer and make an appointment to see your orthodontist. They should be able to review the situation with you and provide options. Don't READ MORE
For the time being, keep wearing your retainer and make an appointment to see your orthodontist. They should be able to review the situation with you and provide options. Don't stress all should be okay.

How often will I have to replace my braces?

When you visit your orthodontist for your adjustments your wires will typically be changed and not the braces themselves. On occasion your brackets may need to be repositioned READ MORE
When you visit your orthodontist for your adjustments your wires will typically be changed and not the braces themselves. On occasion your brackets may need to be repositioned or replaced if they are damaged or broken.

Braces

It sounds like you could benefit from orthodontic treatment. Braces may or may not be necessary to achieve the desired results. Please consult your local orthodontist.

My daughter is 13 years old and has a bite problem. What will be the course of treatment?

Depends on the severity. She still has some growth left which works in her favor. You should get her in to see an orthodontist as soon as possible.

Is there a better way to get the perfect smile other than getting braces?

You could be a great candidate for clear aligner therapy.