Duthie Orthodontics - Ithaca

Yxi Ojeda

I waited five months for my appointment, only to be denied treatment without so much as an examination. The orthodontist refused to proceed with any treatment due to my TMJ disorder, insisting that I needed medical clearance from a doctor before she could move forward. TMJ is a condition that fluctuates based on stress and personal management—it is not something that inherently prevents orthodontic treatment, and many people with TMJ actually find relief from properly aligned teeth. But she said because Liability she can’t move forward.

Liability from who? Instead of listening to my concerns or even examining my bite, she sat across the room and made her decision without any hands-on evaluation. She then suggested I drive two hours to Rochester to see a specialist, without considering whether that was feasible for me. Where is the empathy? Since when do I need a doctor’s permission to make decisions about my own teeth? I’m 38 years old and very aware of my health and what to do with it. I left the appointment feeling unheard, dismissed, and frustrated by the lack of professionalism and care.

If you’re looking for an orthodontist who actually listens to their patients and makes informed, individualized decisions, I’d look elsewhere.

January 23, 2025

Liana Sicroff

Since Dr. Duthie retired, the practice has been MUCH worse. My retainers have been on forever, the last few scans there has been the same problem, and just at my last appointment they were like hmm maybe we should try attachments, and when I said enthusiastically yes I want them off, they acted like it was the first it has occured to them that I would want to be done with this process.

The new doctor has an off putting energy, and ran very behind at my last appointment, which I usually wouldn't make a fuss about, except for the fact that when she got in it looked like she had no idea what was going on.

January 28, 2025

Raisa Ahmed

My experience with Duthie Orthodontics has been so frustrating and I am honestly beyond upset by how I’ve been treated at every appointment. I have to agree with all recent reviews. When I was seen for my consult, I was very clear about the fact that I would be moving out of Ithaca in a year and may need less frequent appointments or to co manage with another orthodontists office. At the time I was told there was no problem, trays could be mailed to meif needed, appointments could be spaced out, easy to transfer care etc. This was false, hours are now 4 weekdays, almost impossible to book in if you don’t book 3- 6 months n advance.

And staff are also not helpful and anytime I have to interact with them. I’m now having to drive 6 hours for appointments where I’m seen by Dr. berry for 3-5 mins. My case is not reviewed prior to her seeing me. I was given the wrong instructions verbally because she was had not reviewed my case and was confused.

I politely voiced my concern with the technician that saw me about the troubles I’ve been having booking appointments, and she was very rude, almost gaslighting me telling me I was the “only one who was complaining about this so…” I would say the reviews on here say otherwise. I really don’t know what to do at this point and really upset about this. I would agree with the other reviews and say to definitely go elsewhere, I wish I had, and now feel stuck.

February 20, 2025

C T

Recommendation updated and improved. Dr. Duthie and those who worked with him were excellent! The previous front desk person, Carrie (?), was amazing! Very responsive and professional! Since Dr. Duthie retired, the practice has been going through a huge transition. It was bumpy the first year or so but has improved since then. Still not as good as it was under Dr. Duthie.

During Dr. Duthie’s time, he didn’t think twice giving excellent recommendations to other providers and always answering any questions. He even provided his cell phone number at an appointment. Didn’t use it, but still most providers would never do that. Always went above and beyond. Really took the time to listen and was a positive energy around the office. Could tell that those who worked there were happy at that time too.

Much more difficult to get appointments now. Changing the practice to a more limited, 4 day schedule there did not help matters. Even walking in with an issue that would take 5 mins or less to tend to was met with resistance to help. Used to be told and encouraged to stop by any time anything was needed. There are still a few remaining good staff there.

July 11, 2025