Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics is the dental specialty that most frequently is associated with braces.
Referrals to the Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics Specialty Practice are accepted from general dentists, specialists and from within Pitt Dental Medicine. Patients may self-refer.
Patient Self-Referrals
To schedule an appointment in the Orthodontics Specialty Practice, new and existing patients should call 412-648-8689 option 1.
Professional Referrals
Patients in the Orthodontics Specialty Practice may be seen by professional referrals.
Healthcare professionals should complete our referral process at the link below.
Refer your patient to Pitt Dental Medicine Orthodontics Specialty Practice
Services Provided by the Orthodontics Specialty Practice
The Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics Specialty Practice provides comprehensive orthodontic treatment utilizing a range of treatment options such as traditional metal braces, ceramics, and clear aligners. We also work cooperatively with the other Pitt Dental Medicine Specialty Practices and will internally refer you to ensure you receive all of the care your dentist recommends.
What to Bring to Your First Appointment
- Plan to arrive 15 minutes earlier than your scheduled appointment time to complete your medical history.
- If you have dental insurance, please bring your insurance information with you.
- Upon arrival, please check in at the reception desk and present your appointment and insurance information to the receptionist.
- Patients younger than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and will need the signature of a parent or guardian on required forms.
What to Expect
The first step toward becoming a patient of the Pitt Orthodontic Department is to complete a short questionnaire and have a quick screening examination to determine if your orthodontic needs match resident educational goals. This initial orthodontic screening is free-of-charge.
The patient and/or guardian are informed that:
- This is not a comprehensive exam and we are unable to provide a definitive diagnosis, treatment plan, or final cost estimate.
- No dental treatment occurs during this visit.
- Participation in the screening does not guarantee acceptance for treatment at the Pitt Orthodontic Department. Due to the nature of an academic dental clinic, not everyone can be selected to become a patient.
- Receiving dental care at Pitt Dental Medicine is a little different than your previous experiences in a private practice dental office. Appointments take longer because residents may work at a slower pace and faculty members are required to frequently check the progress of procedures to ensure that our patients receive the highest-quality care. The complexity of care needed will determine the length of time necessary to complete your treatment. Completing your dental care in an educational setting can take longer but will be of the same high quality as outside providers.
- If a child or adolescent patient is under the age of 18, a parent/guardian must accompany them to every appointment. Children or adolescents will not be examined or treated unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian must remain in the clinic waiting room at all times while the child/adolescent is being treated.
- Dental clearance is required prior to orthodontic treatment, if accepted as a patient.
The Pitt Orthodontic Department will review all collected information and will contact the patient and/or parent/guardian regarding acceptance for care.
Fees and Payment Options
There is no fee for orthodontic screenings.
Learn more about insurance and fees
Department of Orthodontics & Dentofacial Orthopedics
2189 Salk Hall
3501 Terrace St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
412-648-8689