Orthodontic Professionals

The brief descriptions below are designed to familiarize you with our staff's training, professional credentials and work experience.

Dr. James D. Harkins

Dr. James D. Harkins, a Board Certified Orthodontist, was born and raised in the Pittsburgh area. He graduated from Canevin High School and then Duquesne University, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Following college he attended the University of Pittsburgh, Dental School, and graduated in the top five percent of his class. Finding a great interest in Orthodontics during Dental School, Dr. Harkins continued his education at the State University of New York at Buffalo, where he earned a Master of Science degree in Orthodontics, and an Orthodontic Specialty Certificate.

After returning to Pittsburgh and while starting his new Orthodontic practice, Dr. Harkins worked as an associate in an established local practice, and as an instructor at the Pitt Dental School graduate Orthdontic Department. He has continued his education over the years by attending numerous continuing education courses, and completing the exstensive testing process needed to become a Board Certified Orthodontist.

Dr. Harkins maintains memberships in numerous professional organizations, which include the American Association of Orthodontists, Great Lakes Association of Orthdontists, Western Pennsylvania Society of Orthodontists, and the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics. He is also a member of the American Dental Association, Pennsylvania Dental Association, Beaver Valley Dental Society, and the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Dental Fraternity.

At his offices in Kennedy Township and Center Township, Dr. Harkins has over thirty years experience in orthodontics, and has been voted one of Pittsburgh's Top Dentists by Pittsburgh Magazine for multiple years.

Dr. Harkins and his highly experienced staff, have always had a conservative philosophy on orthodontic treatment, and realize orthodontic treatment is often elective, and that not every patient requires exstensive treatment. We are always available for a free consultation, to offer our opinion on any potential orthodontic issues.