Residents earn Southern Society of Orthodontists awards

By Dylan Allen July 28, 2026

The awards underscore the department’s ongoing dedication to research excellence and resident scholarship while highlighting the impact of collaborative research conducted by residents and faculty mentors.

Three research projects from residents in the UTHealth Houston School of Dentistry Department of Orthodontics have been recognized with Resident Research Awards from the Southern Society of Orthodontists, earning a combined $2,363.77 in research funding.

The award-winning projects reflect the department’s commitment to advancing orthodontic science and improving patient care through evidence-based research.

Recognized projects include:

“Effect of Post-Processing Lag Time of 3D-Printed Bonding Jigs on Shear Bond Strength of In Vitro Bonded Brackets to Enamel,” led by Frederick Drummond, DDS, which received $1,001.53.
“Impact of Repeated Cleaning Protocols on Subsequent Stain Susceptibility of Clear Aligner Materials: An In Vitro Study,” led by Stephanie Dominguez, DMD, which received $677.82.
“Comparison of Conventional Adhesive Remnant Index Scoring with ImageJ-Based Quantitative Analysis of Fluorescent Orthodontic Adhesive Remnants,” led by Georgia Hejny, DMD, MPH, which received $684.42.

According to Katie Julien, DDS, MS, department chair, the recognition highlights the department’s emphasis on scholarly inquiry and innovation.

“One of my goals for our program is to cultivate a culture of inquiry where residents are encouraged to challenge assumptions and pursue meaningful research,” Julien said. “Seeing three projects recognized by the Southern Society of Orthodontists is a wonderful affirmation of that commitment and of the exceptional work our residents and faculty mentors are accomplishing together.”

Julien said the recognition reflects the department’s commitment to fostering research that addresses practical questions facing orthodontic clinicians and patients.

“Projects like these help us evaluate new technologies, improve clinical techniques, and generate evidence that ultimately leads to safer, more efficient, and more effective care for our patients,” Julien said.