Dr. James A. McNamara has practiced orthodontics in Ann Arbor since 1971. Born in San Francisco, he is a graduate of the University of California Berkeley. Dr. McNamara received his dental and orthodontic education at the University of California San Francisco and a Doctorate in Anatomy from the University of Michigan.

Dr. McNamara holds an Endowed Professorship in the Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry in the U of M School of Dentistry. He also holds professorships in the U of M Medical School and in the Center for Human Growth and Development, a research unit on the Ann Arbor campus.

Dr. McNamara is considered an innovator in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment. His research focuses extensively on the clinical modification of the growth of the face and jaws. He also is director for the U of M team that deals with the management of patients with complex restorative needs (orthodontic, periodontic, and restorative/prosthodontic problems).

He continues to lecture nationally and internationally, having given courses in 36 countries. He has authored over 245 publications (for a list of publications click here). He also has written, edited, or contributed to 68 books on orthodontics and craniofacial biology, including the widely-used textbook Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.



Dr. McNamara has received much recognition during the last 35+ years for his patient care, teaching, and research efforts.

The Albert H. Ketcham Memorial Award, the highest award given by the American Board of Orthodontics in 2008. This award generally is considered the most prestigious award in orthodontics worldwide.
The James E Brophy Award, the highest award given by the American Association of Orthodontists of Orthodontists, in 2001.
The Research Recognition Award of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons in 1983.
The E. Sheldon Friel Memorial Lecturer of the European Orthodontic Society in 1979.
The Milo Hellman Research Award given by theAmerican Association of Orthodontists in 1973.
He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a Fellow of the American College of Dentists. He also is past-president of the Midwest Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists.

Dr. McNamara lives in Ann Arbor with his wife Charlene, who is the business manager of the orthodontic practice. Their daughter Laurie is an orthodontist and is a partner in this practice. Their son David is a real estate broker and property manager and the founder of Foxway Realty in Ann Arbor. The senior McNamaras have three grandchildren – Sophia, Alexander and Kendall.

Dr. McNamara is an avid photographer, supporter of U of M athletics, and also pretends to be a golfer.