About Our Practice

Three Generations of Exceptional Dental Care

For generations, Laura S. Harkin, DMD has been committed to helping patients in New Holland and the surrounding communities achieve healthy, confident smiles. Dentistry is more than a profession for our family—it's a legacy built on relationships, trust, and a genuine desire to serve others.


Dr. Laura Harkin's father and grandfather both practiced dentistry in New Holland, demonstrating that exceptional dental care can create a meaningful impact both within the community and at home. Inspired by their example, Dr. Harkin pursued a career that would allow her to continue that tradition while helping patients experience the confidence and quality of life that come with a healthy smile.


Today, Harkin Dental combines advanced clinical training, modern technology, and personalized care to provide comprehensive dentistry for patients of all ages.

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Our Philosophy

We believe dentistry is about far more than teeth.

Our goal is to build lasting relationships with our patients while providing treatment that is thoughtful, conservative, and tailored to each individual's needs. Whether we're helping a child through their first dental visit, restoring a worn smile, or improving confidence through cosmetic dentistry, we strive to deliver care that is comfortable, compassionate, and focused on long-term health.


One of the greatest rewards of dentistry is seeing patients regain confidence in their smiles and improve their quality of life. That commitment to patient-centered care continues to inspire our team every day.

Meet Dr. Laura Harkin

Dr. Laura Harkin graduated Cum Laude from Franklin & Marshall College in 1999 with a major in Mathematics and a minor in Flute Performance. She went on to earn her dental degree from Temple University School of Dentistry in 2008 and immediately began pursuing her passion for family dentistry.


Known for her attention to detail and commitment to excellence, Dr. Harkin continually invests in advanced education to ensure patients receive the most current, minimally invasive, and effective treatment options available.

Her professional accomplishments include:



  • Academy of General Dentistry Mastership (2016)
  • Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition Award (2021)
  • Pankey Scholar designation (2020)
  • Advisor and Visiting Faculty Member for the LD Pankey Dental Foundation


These distinctions represent thousands of hours of continuing education, advanced case study, community service, and a lifelong commitment to clinical excellence.

Advanced Education & Professional Affiliations

Dr. Harkin believes exceptional dentistry requires continuous learning. She remains actively involved in some of the most respected dental organizations in the country, including:

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The Pankey Institute, a prestigious continuing education program dedicated to teaching advanced, comprehensive dentistry.

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This commitment to advanced education allows our practice to provide modern, evidence-based care while maintaining the personalized approach our patients value.

Serving Our Community

Community service has always been a core value for Dr. Harkin

Following the example set by previous generations of dentists in the Sheaffer family, our team actively participates in organizations that provide dental care and support to individuals in need throughout Lancaster County and beyond.


Organizations we support include:



Dr. Harkin also serves on the Board of Trustees for Lancaster Country Day School and is a member of the New Holland Business Association, supporting local initiatives that strengthen and revitalize our community.

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Outside the office, Dr. Harkin enjoys a full and active life with her husband, Sean, and their children, Denis and Lianne. Together, they enjoy family life in Lancaster and staying connected to the community they call home.


A lifelong learner by nature, Dr. Harkin is passionate about continually expanding her knowledge—both within dentistry and beyond. Whether she is pursuing advanced continuing education, exploring a new book, or developing a new skill, she believes there is always something valuable to learn.


To stay active, she enjoys playing tennis, hiking and skiing, and her appreciation for the arts continues through her talents as both a flutist and pianist. When she finds a quiet moment, you'll often find her with a good book in hand, enjoying the opportunity to learn, reflect, and recharge.

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THree Generations of Care

Experience the Difference with Laura Sheaffer Harkin DMD

Whether you're seeking preventive care, cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign®, or advanced restorative treatment, our all female team is committed to providing exceptional care in a welcoming environment. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthy, confident smile for years to come.