Dr. Thomas J. Barra has lived with his family in Chambersburg since 1985. A native of Brooklyn, New York, he attended Regis High School in New York City. Dr. Barra received his Bachelor of Science in Biology at Syracuse University and his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Georgetown University, where he graduated cum laude. While at Georgetown, he received awards for excellence in the studies of orthodontics, oral medicine, and pharmacology, and was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Fraternity for academic excellence. Upon graduating, Dr. Barra entered the specialty program of orthodontics at Georgetown and received his Masters degree in Orthodontics and Certificate in Orthodontics. Since that time he has practiced orthodontics exclusively in Chambersburg and Hagerstown. Dr. Barra is a board-certified orthodontist, having received his certification in 1996.
Dr. Barra is very active in and supports the community in many ways. He has coached youth baseball, basketball, and soccer, serves on church, hospital, and civic committees, and has held local Boy Scout troop and youth sports leadership positions. He has served twice as president of the Cumberland Valley Dental Society.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to come home to practice with my father and the amazing staff I have known for most of my life. It is my privilege to earn your respect and trust in treating you and your family with the same compassion and individualized care that you have come to expect at Barra Orthodontics.
Dr. James Barra was born in Washington, DC during the last year of his fathers orthodontic residency and moved to Chambersburg when he was an infant. Having been raised in Chambersburg, he attended and loved his time at CASHS. He stayed in the area for college, receiving his Bachelor of Science at Gettysburg College before earning his Doctorate of Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. While at UPenn, he was asked to be a teaching assistant in the orthodontics lab, fixed and removable prosthodontics lab, operative dentistry lab and community oral health course. During his senior year, he spent time in the orthodontics department at the Mayo Clinic where he was accepted for a clerkship. Upon graduation from dental school, he received the award for excellence in prosthodontics and like his father, was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon fraternity for academic excellence. Immediately after graduation, Dr. Barra and his family moved to Southern California to complete is residency in orthodontics at Loma Linda University, where he earned his certificate in orthodontics and a Master of Science degree. He recently moved home to practice orthodontics exclusively with his father in Chambersburg where they plan to practice together for many years to come.
Dr. Barra looks forward to contributing to the community that has helped to raise him. He has coached baseball with his brother at Guilford, a place that was his second home for his entire youth, and looks forward to coaching for many years to come. He is also involved with his sons in Boy Scouts, as well as several local community organizations. Dr. Barra is married to Regina, whom he met and started dating in high school at CASHS. Together, they are raising their children within walking distance of the office and cant wait to show them everything this area has to offer.
I've been a part of the team since 2018. I first started here sterilizing instruments and doing lab work on my breaks from school. Since then, I've graduated from Juniata College and have been working as an assistant in the clinic.
I started working here during the summer of 2020 to help with sterilization. Since then my role has evolved into a lab assistant as well. I'm in charge of printing the 3D models and help make retainers as needed.
We are committed to providing the highest quality clinical care and personalized service in a warm and compassionate atmosphere. Our doctor and staff enjoy getting to know each patient and their families, and love creating relationships that last multiple generations.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 32 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestTucker King
a year ago
A few years ago I got my first set of braces put on by Doctor Tom. Then just recently I got my second set of braces put on by Doctor James. Both times have been nothing but the best experience. I could not thank you guys enough. Would recommend to anyone.
Elizabeth Swartz
a year ago
My family and I have been coming to Barra Orthodontics for over 20 years. Every single time I leave their office, I have a smile on my face. They are friendly, caring, fun and helpful. Barra Orthodontics just can't be beat.
Rita Chacon
a year ago
The staff at Barra are very friendly, caring, and knowledgeable. We have received the utmost respect from everyone at Barra. I would highly recommend this Orthodontist to anyone who asks.
Libby Caretti
a year ago
Very warm environment. Great friendly staff!!
Melissa Lehman
a year ago
Great people and knowledgeable
Leanne Clopper
a year ago
I can't say enough about Barra orthodontics! Every appointment has been a pleasure! I'm always informed on what's going on and the next steps to come. Thank you for everything you and your staff do!!
Lauren Pilgrim
a year ago
All of the staff are friendly and helpful. The doctors always explain the treatment to me and my children. Highly recommend for all of your orthodontic needs.
Nicki
a year ago
My daughter was very nervous and Dr. Tom Barra was very gentle and kind with her. He expressed he wants the best for her but was understanding that she didn't want teeth pulled at the appointment. He even gave her a reward for her bravery. Her comfort came first. He understands the balance between offering a plan to move forward and also creating a relationship with his client.
Ashley Smith
a year ago
Very polite, understanding, and patient. Never rush. Dr. J is excellent and compassionate.
Beth and Jon Wolfinger
a year ago
Everyone is amazing!
Chad White
a year ago
Every appointment is a wonderful experience. The staff and doctors are friendly, prompt, caring, and great at what they do. They have taken the time to get to know each of my children and have put together a great plan for their dental work.
Joshua Clarke
2 years ago
My kid is going through the braces process the staff makes it super comfortable and relaxing . Dr Bara is is "kid" professional and my son is very comfortable and looks forward to going to his dentist visits .
Megan Walls
2 years ago
I 100% recommend Barra Orthondontics. They deserve 10 stars. They went above and beyond for us and I am so appreciative. They are hands on and very personable! Thank you all for everything!
The Joeybadger
2 years ago
Barra Orthodontics is amazing. Over a year since my daughter got her braces and I can't express how glad I am that we chose these wonderful people to do the work. She started experiencing pain and getting headaches because we missed an appointment (completely our fault). My daughter was leaving for vacation when I called last minute to get her in. Barra didn't hesitate a second second to adjust her within 10 minutes of my call. Unbelievable service! THANK YOU
The Joeybadger
3 years ago
Barra Orthodontics is amazing. Over a year since my daughter got her braces and I can't express how glad I am that we chose these wonderful people to do the work. She started experiencing pain and getting headaches because we missed an appointment (completely our fault). My daughter was leaving for vacation when I called last minute to get her in. Barra didn't hesitate a second second to adjust her within 10 minutes of my call. Unbelievable service! THANK YOU
Daniela DiGregorio
3 years ago
Dr. Barras are extremely dedicated and knowledgeable. They are also very patient with children and parents. Barra Orthodontics is the best in this region.
Daniela DiGregorio
3 years ago
Dr. Barras are extremely dedicated and knowledgeable. They are also very patient with children and parents. Barra Orthodontics is the best in this region.
Brigitte Zettl
4 years ago
Very kind staff and doctors. Made my daughter and I feel very comfortable and cared for.
Brigitte Zettl
5 years ago
Very kind staff and doctors. Made my daughter and I feel very comfortable and cared for.
Mark Orndorf
6 years ago
The Barra orthodontists and their staff are fantastic. Dr. Tom Barra did the braces for my entire family, and we were all very satisfied. He was thorough and attentive and our appointments were always quick. Can't recommend them enough.