About the Doctors

Leslie Pitner, D.D.S., M.S.

Leslie is the daughter of Dr. John and Margaret Pitner, and she grew up in the Columbia area. She graduated from Chapin High School in 1986 and received her undergraduate degree from Williams College in 1990. At Williams, she majored in art and graduated with highest honors, receiving membership in Phi Beta Kappa. After completing a master’s degree in art history at the University of Pennsylvania in 1995, Leslie decided to pursue a career in dentistry.

She graduated with distinction from the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry in 2002, where she was elected to membership in OKU, a dental honor society. She also completed her specialty certificate at UNC and received her Master of Science in orthodontics in 2005.

Leslie brings an eye for beauty and detail from her training in art and an enthusiasm for bringing that beauty to each patient’s smile. In 2007, she completed a unique Masters degree in Positive Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania. She uses this education to encourage patients to grow in their strengths through the challenges of orthodontics and enjoy the positive power of a smile.

John Pitner, D.M.D.

With more than 30 years as a practicing orthodontist, Dr. Pitner has earned the reputation of being one of the finest orthodontists in Columbia. His unique combination of experience, technical expertise and warm, personal approach to care has attracted people of all ages, satisfying patients and parents alike.

Dr. Pitner received his undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then earned his D.M.D. from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. After serving as a Captain in the United States Air Force, he returned to Loyola University in Chicago to specialize in orthodontics.

Formal education complete, Dr. Pitner committed himself to an ongoing regime of continuing education, serving on orthodontic committees and attending study groups – all to stay abreast of ever-evolving procedures and technology. He has served as president of the South Carolina Orthodontic Association and the Central District Dental Association, as the South Carolina Director of the Southern Association of Orthodontists and he is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association. Dr. Pitner is a fellow of the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists. He has served as a delegate for South Carolina to the American Association of Orthodontists.