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Orthodontics

The Department of Orthodontics at UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry is dedicated to advancing the specialty through excellence in education, patient care, and research. Faculty, residents, and staff prepare the next generation of orthodontists to excel in private practice and academic settings while improving oral health and quality of life within the community.

With an emphasis on evidence-based practice, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the department fosters an environment where education, clinical excellence, and research intersect to shape the future of orthodontics.

Our Vision

To transform lives through leadership in orthodontic education, compassionate and comprehensive patient care, and innovative research that improves oral health and overall well-being.

Our Mission

The mission of the Department of Orthodontics aligns with that of UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry. We are dedicated to:

  • Educating dental students and residents to be highly skilled, ethical, and adaptable orthodontic professionals.
  • Delivering state-of-the-art orthodontic care for diverse patient populations, from children to adults, including those with complex craniofacial needs.
  • Advancing knowledge through clinical, translational, and basic science research, with a strong emphasis on digital technologies and 3D innovation.
  • Promoting a collaborative, inclusive learning environment that fosters integrity, innovation, and service.

Achieving these within a family-oriented atmosphere that nurtures lifelong bonds, inspires alumni loyalty, and encourages continued engagement with the department, while giving back to the profession and their communities.

Orthodontics Chair

 Katie Julien
DDS, MSc
Professor
Chair for Department of Othodontics; Program Director for Orthodontics

Orthodontics Faculty

 D. Blake Null
DMD, MSD
Adjunct Assistant Professor
 Ralph Brock II
DDS, MS
Associate Professor
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DDS, MS
Professor
 Stephen Chen
DDS, MSD
Adjunct Associate Professor
 Clark Colville
DDS, MS
Associate Professor
 Philip Corbin
DDS, MS, MPH
Associate Professor
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DDS, MSD
Associate Professor
 Randy Ellis
DDS, MS
Associate Professor
 Jeryl English
DDS, MS
Chair Emeritus
 Fred Garrett
DDS, MS
Professor
 Kathleen Gibson
PhD
Professor Emerita
 Kyle Gopffarth
DDS, MSD
Assistant Professor
 Lacey Harris
DMD, MSD
Associate Professor
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DDS, MS
Adjunct Assistant Professor
 Alireza Hourfar
DDS, MSD
Adjunct Assistant Professor
 Grace Huang
DMD, MMSc
Assistant Professor
Director for Predoctoral Orthodontics Program
 F. Kurtis Kasper
PhD
Professor
Research Director
 Larry Mayer
DDS, MS
Associate Professor
 Kathleen McGrory
DDS, MS
Adjunct Associate Professor
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DDS MSD
Assistant Professor
 Audrey Moon
DDS, MSD
Associate Professor
 Gregory Olson
DDS, MSc
Professor
Associate Dean for Technology Services & Informatics; Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
 Noriaki Ono
DDS, PhD
Professor
 Ronald Risinger
DDS, MS
Adjunct Assistant Professor
 Meredith Scott
DDS, MSD
Adjunct Assistant Professor
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DDS, MS
Adjunct Assistant Professor
 Samuel Winkelmann
DDS, MS
Adjunct Associate Professor

Orthodontics Staff

 Edgar Alcala
Assistant Patient Access Representative
 Felicia Bruhn
Dental Assistant I
 Adriana Cavender
Administrative Manager
 Sbeydei Flores
Assistant Patient Access Representative
 Lavenia Mayes
Dental Assistant I
 Paula Semien
Patient Care Coordinator
 Lenora
Senior Clinic Manager

Orthodontics Resident