Meet Dr. Burns

Dr. Nikia Burns, DMD, MS

As a proud native of Southwestern Pennsylvania, I feel incredibly fortunate to do what I love every day. One of the most rewarding parts of being an orthodontist is seeing the confidence that grows when patients feel great about their smiles. Helping people achieve healthy, beautiful smiles is truly my passion.

My journey into orthodontics started when I was a patient myself. While I was never unhappy with my smile, I was amazed by the transformation that orthodontic treatment created. The changes were far greater than I ever expected, and the confidence it gave me made a lasting impact on my life. Looking back, choosing orthodontic treatment was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and that experience inspired me to help others achieve the same results.

I attended Pennsylvania State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Pre-Medicine. I then went on to earn my Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine, graduating at the top of my class. After dental school, I completed my specialty training in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics at West Virginia University, where I also earned my master’s degree. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of patients of all ages achieve healthier, more confident smiles.

In 2025, I expanded my passion for helping patients look and feel their best by opening New Beauty Medical Aesthetics. Through extensive advanced training and certification courses in medical aesthetics, I am able to offer a wide variety of aesthetic and wellness treatments designed to enhance natural beauty and boost confidence. My background in facial anatomy, orthodontics, and dentofacial orthopedics provides a unique foundation for delivering personalized, safe, and effective aesthetic care. In addition to cosmetic treatments, I also offer therapies that can help relieve TMJ discomfort, jaw tension, and facial muscle pain, providing both functional and aesthetic benefits for many patients.

I currently live in Canonsburg with my husband, Nathan, and our two wonderful sons, Hayden and Ryder. When I’m not in the office, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family. We love traveling together and introducing our boys to different cultures, experiences, and traditions around the world. And if there’s one thing we enjoy almost as much as traveling, it’s trying new foods along the way! Exploring local restaurants and cuisines is one of our favorite parts of every adventure.

Orthodontic Specialist & Aesthetic Provider

As an orthodontic specialist, I completed an additional 2–3 years of advanced training beyond dental school focused specifically on orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. My goal is not only to create beautiful smiles, but also to ensure proper bite alignment, jaw function, and long-term oral health for every patient I treat.

In addition to my orthodontic expertise, I have completed numerous advanced aesthetic trainings and certification programs, allowing me to provide a comprehensive approach to facial aesthetics, rejuvenation, and wellness. I love helping patients feel confident not only in their smiles, but in their overall appearance and quality of life.

This addition ties my orthodontic expertise naturally into aesthetics and TMJ treatment, making my credentials feel connected rather than like two separate careers. It also positions my as a comprehensive facial aesthetics and wellness provider while maintaining a warm, patient-focused voice.

Education

  • Pennsylvania State University
  • Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine
  • West Virginia University
Burns Orthodontics ADA member
Burns Orthodontics PDA member
Burns Orthodontics AAO member
Burns Orthodontics chamber of commerce member
Burns Orthodontics penn state alumni