Meet Your Orthodontist in Springfield, OR
Matthew Epperson, DMD, MSD
Education & Training
Dr. Matthew Epperson completed his undergraduate studies in biology at Snow College and the University of Nevada–Las Vegas (UNLV). While attending Snow College, he met Aubrie, who would later become his wife. He went on to graduate summa cum laude from the UNLV School of Dental Medicine in 2012 with his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree.
After dental school, Dr. Epperson moved to Eugene, Oregon, where he practiced general dentistry for two years and developed a deep appreciation for the Pacific Northwest. His own experience as an orthodontic patient during that time helped spark his interest in the specialty.
Dr. Epperson pursued advanced orthodontic training at Louisiana State University, completing his orthodontic residency in 2016. He earned both a Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) and a Certificate in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. That same year, he opened Epperson Orthodontics and began practicing orthodontics in the Eugene/Springfield area.
Care You Can Trust
What most distinguishes Dr. Epperson's approach is the personal nature of his practice. Epperson Orthodontics is intentionally designed as a smaller, boutique-style office where patients can feel seen, heard and cared for rather than feeling like a number. Dr. Epperson does not delegate clinical care to an assistant; he personally sees patients throughout their appointments and structures his schedule to allow more one-on-one time with each person. Patients frequently comment on the calm, relaxed atmosphere and the personal attention they receive.
That same personal approach extends to collaboration with other healthcare providers. When orthodontic treatment needs to coordinate with restorative dentistry, implants, oral surgery or other dental care, Dr. Epperson communicates directly with the patient's dentists and specialists to help ensure that the orthodontic plan supports the patient's overall treatment goals.
For Dr. Epperson, orthodontics is about more than straightening teeth. His goal is to help patients feel confident in their smiles while making the treatment experience positive, comfortable and personal. He enjoys building relationships with patients and families, celebrating their accomplishments and creating an office environment where people genuinely look forward to their visits.
Orthodontic Experience & Treatment Approach
Since beginning his orthodontic career, Dr. Epperson has completed approximately 1,000 orthodontic cases, including approximately 900 braces cases, 300 early or Phase 1 cases and 150 cases involving growth modification or functional appliances. He has significant experience with traditional braces, rapid palatal expanders and MARA appliances for patients with developing jaw and bite concerns. He also treats teens and adults, including patients who need orthodontic retreatment, complex bite correction or coordination with restorative dentists and oral surgeons.
Dr. Epperson takes a thoughtful, conservative approach to treatment. He does not believe every child who visits an orthodontist needs early treatment. For children whose growth and development appear normal, he often recommends observation instead, monitoring them periodically until comprehensive orthodontic treatment is appropriate. When Phase 1 treatment is recommended, it is typically to address concerns such as a narrow upper jaw, crossbite, crowding, missing permanent teeth, an underbite or other conditions where earlier intervention may be beneficial.
For comprehensive treatment, Dr. Epperson primarily uses traditional braces because of the control and predictability they can provide, particularly when moderate or complex tooth movement is needed. Clear aligners are also available through uLab and are generally reserved for mild cases, adult patients or limited retreatment when only minor tooth movement is required. His recommendations are based on the complexity of the case as well as a patient's ability to consistently follow treatment instructions.
Technology also plays an important role in the patient experience. Dr. Epperson uses a Medit i700 intraoral scanner in place of traditional impression materials, allowing for a cleaner and more comfortable digital scanning experience. For certain complex cases, he can use digital treatment-planning software and 3D-printed models to help patients visualize proposed tooth movement. Records and scans are completed in-house, and Dr. Epperson personally makes the practice's retainers to help ensure a precise fit.
Continuing Education & Professional Affiliations
Dr. Epperson is committed to continuing education and has completed approximately 200 hours of additional education in orthodontics, including braces and orthodontic biomechanics. His academic work has also contributed to the profession. In 2017, research involving the bond strength of orthodontic brackets to ceramic crowns was published in the Australian Orthodontic Journal.
His professional memberships include:
Outside the Office
Dr. Epperson is a devoted husband and father of four daughters. He married his best friend, Aubrie, in 2005. He enjoys running, trail running, hiking, camping, CrossFit, GoRuck, softball and golf. Some of his greatest happiness comes from time with his family and the relationships he has built within the Springfield and Thurston communities. He also enjoys giving back through coaching Special Olympics.