Professional Education:

1989: I graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art. I further developed my artistic skill through summer study at Stanford University and Baylor in Paris. Through this experience I gained an invaluable background for orthodontics by developing an eye for proportion, color and negative space.

1995: I graduated from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Magna Cum Laude in the honors program and was selected as the most outstanding dental student in Texas by the Texas Dental Association. I achieved a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree with the distinction of induction into Omicron Kappa Upsilon – the National Dental Honor Society. Throughout my time at UTHSC-SA I participated in bone biology research and created a model for histologic study of physiologic bone turnover stimulated by orthodontic force. 

1998: I earned a Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science Degree (MS) at the The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Dentistry, recognized as the nation’s leading Orthodontic Program. My master’s thesis won the department of Orthodontics' research award and investigated the differences in patient, parent and orthodontists' perceptions in facial and dental attractiveness. I also created all artistic illustrations needed for lectures and publications for Dr. William Proffit, the Chairman of the Orthodontic Department.

1999: After graduation, I accepted a faculty position at The Ohio State University School of Dentistry as an assistant professor teaching orthodontics. With my chairman and mentor, Dr. Katherine Vig, I published a book chapter titled, “Interaction of the Sagittal and Vertical Dimensions in Orthodontic Diagnosis and Treatment Planning,” and developed a new course for teaching basic orthodontics to dental students. 

2000: I returned to Clear Lake to join my father in the private practice at Magness Orthodontics. I could now combine Texas orthodontic philosophies practiced by my father with the knowledge I gained in North Carolina and Ohio. I believe the combination my passion for the specialty of orthodontics and my intellectual development in art and orthodontic theory prepared me to provide the best care possible for my patients. However, no amount of academic preparation could replace the opportunity to study under my father, Dr. Robert Magness. We are a great team. 

2010: I achieved the status of Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics culminating nine years of study and clinical practice. I presented some of my most difficult cases to the American Board Examiners. I did the boards the “hard way” with the most stringent requirements.