Dr. Leavitt grew up in a small town in Idaho. The second of nine children, he learned early
the value of hard work while helping his father and mother run their 80 acre farm.
As his father is a high school counselor and his mother was an elementary teacher, he also
learned the importance of receiving a good education.
Dr. Leavitt graduated from Kuna High School in the top ten percent of his class and received
an academic scholarship to Brigham Young University. He graduated from BYU in 1993 with a
Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology (the biology of animals).
He attended the University of Washington School of Dentistry in Seattle, graduating with
honors and receiving his Doctor of Dental Science degree in 1997.
The following two years were also spent at the University of Washington, receiving
specialized training in orthodontics. This program consisted of additional academic
education in the areas of orofacial biology (anatomy, embryology), craniofacial growth
and anomalies, as well as clinical training in all areas of orthodontic theory and
practice. Dr. Leavitt completed a Masters Thesis during this time as well and received a
Master of Science in Dentistry along with the Certificate of Orthodontics in 1999.
Upon graduation, Dr. Leavitt associated with his father-in-law, Dr. William J. Barrett.
Dr. Leavitt is a member of the following dental organizations:
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists
- Washington State Society of Orthodontists
- American Dental Association
- Washington State Dental Association
- Pierce County Dental Society
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honorary Dental Society
Dr. Leavitt lives in Yelm with his wife, Danae, their four children (one daughter and three
sons), two dogs (Chip and Salsa), and two cats (Thomas and Gidget). They enjoy spending time
together as a family; camping, hiking, biking, and skiing.
Dr. Leavitt thoroughly enjoys working with both children and adults to create beautiful
smiles. It is his goal to create a fun, friendly, yet professional atmosphere while
providing the highest quality orthodontic care available. To ensure that he is up to
date on the latest technology, he spends many days each year in continuing education
seminars, study clubs, and conferences. We hope you enjoy our web site and take the
opportunity to stop by the office to meet Dr. Leavitt and the rest of the team.