INTRODUCING OUR PROFESSION
What is an Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon?
The dental specialty of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in the United States requires several additional years of hospital-based surgical and anesthesia training after graduation from an accredited dental school. After completing his dental education at Indiana University School of Dentistry 4-year doctoral program, Dr. Daniel Burns moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, to complete a 6-year oral and maxillofacial surgery training program, which included graduation from medical school, at Louisiana State University. This is why his credentials are Daniel A. Burns, DDS, MD.
This unique and powerful combination of both dental and medical doctorate degrees offers the Michiana area the most comprehensive understanding of anatomy, pathology, and possible interventions in patient care. Dr. Burns is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between the medical and dental communities to maximize patient outcomes. Dr. Burns has used this extensive training and experience both in his private practice and as a long-term member of the Elkhart General Hospital staff, providing essential emergency care to the Elkhart community.
As an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Burns manages a wide variety of problems relating to the mouth, teeth, and facial regions. Dr. Burns practices a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from dental implant surgery and wisdom tooth removal to corrective jaw surgery, including techniques designed to rebuild bone structure with minimal surgical intervention and optimal patient comfort, and diagnosis and treatment of oral and facial pathology and facial trauma.
Our patients’ comfort and safety are of utmost concern. We provide several methods of anesthesia and sedation, including Intravenous (IV) sedation in our state-of-the-art office setting. Patients are continuously monitored during and after surgery, maintaining a safe and relaxed treatment experience.
Our Surgical Team
The surgical team at Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery of Elkhart consists of experienced, certified oral and maxillofacial surgical assistants, who take radiographic images used during surgery, assist the administration of IV sedation, and manage the surgical treatment room.
Our Administrative Team
Our administrative team is well versed in best practices of scheduling, financial affairs, and insurance benefit maximization. A combined over 45 years of experience in the dental profession shows in our ability to navigate every patient’s unique needs.
All team members at Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Elkhart are certified in OSHA, HIPAA, and CPR protocols, with annual renewal of training. Additional training on specific clinical and administrative topics keeps our team informed on the most current best practices in the profession.

