Richard E. DeForno, D.M.D., M.A.G.D.

Dr. DeForno grew up in the suburbs of Pittsburgh. At a very young age, he learned the value of hard work and dedication. His parents owned a service station, where he pumped gas everyday after school and all summer long. By age 12, he was rebuilding carburetors and engines. He developed a liking for working with his hands and often wondered how he could put his hand-eye coordination to work. It was not until high school that he thought of a career in dentistry.

Dr. DeForno graduated from Kiski Area Senior High School with honors. He was a three time letterman, competing in football, wrestling, and track and field. He received the Iron Man award for football and held the school record for pole vaulting.

In 1968, he started his freshman year at The University of Pittsburgh. It was during his senior year in Dental School that he met his future wife, Pat. They fell in love and were married in 1976.

Dr. DeForno began practicing dentistry here in Thorndale the same year. A former classmate asked him to join his practice and began his life long career. Dr. DeForno enjoyed practicing dentistry so much in the Thorndale community; he decided to build a state-of-the-art facility. In 1984 he opened Thorndale Dental Associates and Thorndale Dental Arts Laboratory, where he is practicing today.

Dr. DeForno is committed to excellence in dentistry. He spends approximately 150 hours continuing his education on a yearly basis. He had the privilege to serve as the President of the Delaware Valley LD Pankey Study Club in the 1998-1999 term. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Pennsylvania Dental Association, the AV Puritan Academy; of which he is a member of the board, and he is a member of the LD Pankey Institute. In July of 2002, he was the recipient of the most prestigious award, his Mastership, from the Academy of General Dentistry. In attaining his Mastership, Dr. DeForno met the highest criteria for professional excellence by taking 1,100 hours of continuing dental education in the 16 disciplines of dentistry, including 400 hours dedicated to “hands-on” skills and techniques. Since 1952, only 1,651 dentists have received Mastership honors worldwide, so he now holds a place of high honor among this small group of dedicated practitioners.

Dr. DeForno currently resides in Kimberton with his family. His oldest son, Rich, now resides in China. His youngest son, Pat, graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and now works here in our office. Dr. DeForno enjoys spending time with his family, skiing, reading, staying in touch with the latest computer technology, scuba diving, and riding his Harley. Yes, that’s right, riding his Harley! Look for him on your travels throughout Chester County!

Dr. DeForno’s Accreditations: