Dr. Jessica M. Pickard R.D., D.D.S.

Dr. Jessica Pickard, RD, DDS Doctor of Dental Surgery A native of Auburn, Dr. Pickard graduated from DeKalb High School before earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences at Purdue University in May of 2004. In May of 2005, she completed an internship as a Registered Dietician (RD) in Columbus, Ohio at Mount Carmel College of Nursing. From there she matriculated to Indiana University School of Dentistry in the fall of 2005 and received her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in May 2009. In June of 2009, she married Brayton Pickard and the couple settled in Portland, Maine, where Dr. Pickard provided exceptional care in a dental office. In May 2011, she and her husband moved to Auburn, IN and she started working here with her father. Since moving back to Auburn, their family has expanded. They welcomed their first daughter, Gretchen, in May 2013 and their second daughter, Imogen, in February 2015. They love to spend time together as a family enjoying the outdoors. They especially enjoy downhill skiing, spending time at the lake, hiking/running, and rock climbing. Dr. Pickard is a registered member of the American Dental Association, Indiana Dental Association, Isaac Knapp District Dental Society, the Fort Study Club, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She has had considerable experience in all aspects of family cosmetic dentistry and is an avid student for continuing education. She has additional certification in Invisalign braces (www.invisalign.com) and oral sedation (www.sedationcare.com).

Why should patients choose you as their provider instead of others in the area?

We pledge to give you the information on any dental care you may need from basic maintenance for a lifetime of good dental health to smile and function makeovers. On your initial visit with us, you will be appointed for a comprehensive evaluation to include an oral cancer screen, periodontal health (gum health – the cornerstone of continued enjoyment of good dental health) screening, diagnosis of occlusal (bite) problems and a individual check of each tooth for any problems. Then, if necessary, impressions of your teeth will be taken for evaluation, along with necessary x-rays and photographs to aid diagnosis. Time will be saved to review the findings of our evaluation and discuss all with you along with recommendations. We will review the proposed treatment with you along with appointments needed, fees and other necessary information.

What are the top 3 treatments that you focus on?

A dental laser can be used to treat canker sores and help relieve the patient of symptoms and resolve the lesion sooner. This also ensures that a canker sore will not occur in that same exact location again! Ever drive to a dental office just to turn around in the parking lot and return home due to fear and anxiety? Then sedation dentistry is for you! By definition, conscious sedation is produced by the administration of certain medications and is an altered level of consciousness that still allows the patient to respond to physical stimuli and verbal commands and to maintain an unassisted airway. It allows for an anxiety free appointment. The patient is continually monitored during the appointment. We are more than happy to discuss this option for you and prepare a personalized treatment plan for you. Crowns are recommended when teeth are compromised due to existing large restorations, fractures, or root canal treatment. A full coverage crown is a cap that covers the portion of the tooth above the gum line. There are different options on materials and these options will be reviewed with you during the treatment planning and will differ with each patient and each tooth. The crown can be gold or tooth colored.

What are you proud of in your practice?

“I am very pleased and proud of my staff as they take a personal interest in providing not only appropriate and quality care for everyone, but also work hard to know each of our patients personally in helping them achieve sound dental health. I am thankful and blessed to work with staff members who are loyal to my office and to our patients. Most of my staff has worked at this office for more than 10 years and enjoy the relationships they have with everyone. As a patient, it is nice to see the same faces when you come in each time and to call someone by name to receive help that you may need. You can call upon any one of them for answers to your questions or for help.”

Which cases do you enjoy treating? Why?

Invisalign is a great way to straighten your teeth while improving your overall dental health. Invisalign is an alternative option to the traditional metal braces and uses invisible aligners to help straighten your teeth without involving any metal. Treatment usually averages 6-18 months and the average aligner is worn for 2 weeks before switching to a new set. Each case is personalized to fit your goals and needs and can differ from the average. Schedule your appointment today to see if you are a candidate!