Meet Dr. Luis Leite
Luis P. Leite, DMD
Changing Lives, One Smile at a Time
Being an orthodontist involves having the ability to touch each patient’s life, helping the person achieve the most wonderful smile, and building a friendship with everyone during the process. Our smiles are the most natural form of expression, going beyond our own cultures and allowing us to connect immediately with others. I believe everyone deserves a beautiful smile they can share with confidence!
Orthodontics is my life. Every new patient who comes to our practice brings a unique set of occlusal problems and personality nuances. Each person needs and deserves an individualized treatment plan that ensures efficient, comfortable care and gets him or her to the best smile in a timely manner. I enjoy the puzzle each person presents, almost as much as I enjoy getting to know them and becoming their friend!
Our Practice
Aside from possessing outstanding technical skills, our team understands there is nothing more important, at any given time in our practice, than the well-being of our patients. We firmly believe our patients must always know we are honored by their presence and humbled by the trust they place in us.
Dr. Singh and I know the best way to help people achieve their full potential is by empowering them. This is true for our team at the practice and for our patients and their families. We strive to create and maintain a partnership with each patient, and work toward the shared goal of a beautifully healthy smile, filled with confidence and happiness.
Education and Experience
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine – Medical University of South Carolina
- Master of Science and orthodontic certificate – University of Kentucky
- Specialty training in oral and maxillofacial radiology – University of Alabama
In addition to practicing orthodontics for more than 20 years, I have been involved in academic dentistry for most of my professional life.
I served as chair of the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina for 12 years. In this role, I oversaw the education of both orthodontic and pediatric dentistry residents in training.
I attend many orthodontic continuing education courses to stay current on new treatment techniques and technology. I believe in lifelong learning: That sets the foundation for how I use evidence-based research to continually improve the quality of care I provide our patients.
Professional Memberships
- American Association of Orthodontists
- South Carolina Association of Orthodontists
- Angle Society of Orthodontists
- Fellow, American College of Dentists
Serving Others
I am an active volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and the Special Olympics, and I love participating in the Give Kids a Smile Day.
Additionally, I have been honored to have been appointed by the U.S. Department of State as Honorary Consul of Brazil in the State of South Carolina. In this position, I am able to help fellow citizens by providing free consular services and assistance to members of the Brazilian communities in South Carolina.
Beyond the Practice
I grew up in São Paulo, the mega-city in Brazil, and have lived in South Carolina since I finished my orthodontic residency in 1997. I currently divide my time between Charleston and Columbia, and spend as much time as possible with my family.
My wife, Dr. Renata S. Leite, is a periodontist. We have two young children, Sophia and Nicholas, who keep us very busy outside of our practices. We enjoy boating, hiking, and cooking together, and I’m an avid reader, too.