Family Dental Clinic is open

Working together is enjoyable for the ladies at Pea Ridge Dental Clinic, Dr. Crystal Norton said.

"What I enjoy is cosmetic dentistry," Norton said, adding that she enjoys making people happy with their smile. "It's as simple as bleaching the teeth, whitening products, replacing missing teeth ... some people with crocked teeth, who don't want braces ... we can't change bite, but can make teeth straight with crowns."

Norton joined three dentists -- Drs. Jeff Wisener, Darron Cooper and Chris Fergus, who have an office on Horsebarn Road in Rogers -- who purchased the former Pea Ridge Dentist office, according to Dr. Jeff Wisener.

Also at the dental clinic are two hygienists -- Megan Powell and Kristin Jackson, registered dental hygienists, as well as Jeanette Burton, registered dental assistant, and Jana Morris.

"I think it's neat that we have worked together for more than 10 years," Norton said. "We're like a family."

The clinic has four exam rooms, two for the two hygienists and two for Dr. Norton.

"That's the demand," Norton said. "More people need their teeth cleaned than need me."

The dental hygienists take x-rays if needed, clean teeth and educate patients on periodontal care.

"Most people expect their teeth cleaned on the first appointment," Norton said, explaining that most people don't want to wait a month for a new patient appointment and she tries to help keep a schedule that allows for seeing patients when they come in for a cleaning if they need her.

Norton said most people should have their teeth cleaned at least twice a year, but frequency depends on individual need.

"Our hygienists do a really good job on younger patients," Norton said, adding that early dentist visits can help children feel positive about visiting the dentist. "For really young patients, we want it to be a happy visit."

"There was not a dentist here," Norton said of the motivation for her moving to the practice in Pea Ridge. "It's not something I was looking for."

She said she had spent her entire dental career in a big group practice and she wanted to be able to work in a smaller practice.

"And, I was able to bring everyone I love with me," she said of her associates.

Norton earned her undergraduate degree from University of Arkansas and then graduated from Oklahoma Dental School, said she's a Razorback. She previously worked at Pinnacle Hills Dental Clinic.

She and her husband, Brad, have one son, Jackson, 10.