Rick Kapitan, DDS, MS, FACS, FAAP
Cleft & Craniofacial Surgeon in Charlotte, North Carolina
Dr. Rick Kapitan is a board-certified cleft and craniofacial surgeon with an ABOMS CAQ in Pediatric Craniomaxillofacial Surgery. He specializes in full-scope oral surgery, with expertise in cleft lip and palate repair, craniofacial surgery, and full mouth reconstruction.
Recognized far beyond Charlotte, Dr. Kapitan is trusted by patients nationwide for his specialized cleft and craniofacial care.
Dr. Kapitan holds both a Doctorate in Surgery and a Master of Science degree. He completed advanced training in oral and maxillofacial surgery and anesthesia at The Ohio State University Medical Center and earned a Certificate of Added Qualifications (CAQ) in Pediatric Craniomaxillofacial Surgery.
Dr. Kapitan directs both the Carolinas Center for Cleft Lip & Palate Surgery and the Envision™ Implant Academy, where he leads clinical instruction and educational programs for practitioners.
Nationally, he serves as a lecturer and clinical course instructor in advanced dental implant surgery for the Straumann Group and ZimVie. His clinical interests include complex cleft lip, palate, and craniofacial surgery, as well as jaw surgery and full mouth reconstruction.
Dr. Kapitan is deeply committed to restoring not only function but also confidence and quality of life for his patients.
Dr. Kapitan’s Maxillofacial Services
Whether performing dental implant surgery or addressing complex craniofacial conditions, Dr. Kapitan is committed to delivering care that transforms lives. Below are some of the services he offers.
Education
- Medical School – Ohio State University
- Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Residency – Ohio State University
Certifications & Associations
- Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) in Pediatric Craniomaxillofacial Surgery
- Fellow, American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS)
- Fellow, American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (ACOMS)
- Fellow, American College of Surgeons (ACS)
- Fellow, American Academy of Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons (AACMFS)
- Fellow, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
- Director of the Carolinas Center for Cleft Lip and Palate Surgery
- Department Chair of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Novant Medical Center
- Adjunct Faculty in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Philanthropy
Dr. Kapitan is passionate about volunteering and ensuring that cleft and craniofacial patients have access to the care they need. He actively supports and participates in the following organizations:
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Face to Face Foundation – Founded by Dr. Kapitan, this nonprofit helps families in the greater Charlotte area cover the costs of non-surgical cleft care.
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Free to Smile Foundation – As the surgical team leader for this global nonprofit, Dr. Kapitan works alongside volunteers to provide free cleft lip and palate surgeries to children in need across Central and South America and Africa.
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Samaritan’s Purse – Since 2011, the Samaritan’s Purse Cleft Lip Project has repaired more than 700 cleft lips, offering children, youth, and adults a second chance and transforming lives.
Dr. Rick Kapitan, Maxillofacial Surgeon in Charlotte, NC
Dr. Rick Kapitan sees patients at our Blakeney Professional Drive office, offering advanced surgical care with a focus on compassion and patient comfort.
Meet Dr. Kapitan: Beyond Surgery
When he’s not in the office, Dr. Kapitan enjoys spending time outdoors hunting, fishing, and traveling. He resides in Weddington, NC, and is an active member of Mercy Church in Charlotte.
