The IU School of Dentistry’s Orthodontics and Oral Facial Genetics Clinic is in its excellence era—excellence in facilities, that is. Nearly 70 university dignitaries, donors, faculty, staff, residents, and family members commemorated the new space with a reception and ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 17, 2025.
The clinic now features 28 chairs, expanding capacity for one of the school’s busiest clinics. Designed to maximize learning and prepare residents for private practice, the space now matches the excellence in care historically provided to patients.
“My vision for the new clinic was to create a contemporary space that truly mirrored the level of excellence our department delivers every day,” said Dr. Kelton Stewart, clinic director and department chair. “I wanted a physical environment that matched the caliber of our clinical care and educational experiences.”
Residents describe the space as modern, open, organized, and clean—a striking contrast to the outdated, drab clinic it replaced.
As patients enter, they pass a reception area that leads into a clinic that is crisp, bright, and inviting. Private consultation rooms and a quiet practice room border the open-concept clinic, enhanced by natural light. Just a few steps away are a wet lab, 3D print lab, private operatory, and CBCT unit. Residents also have dedicated space with lockers and computer stations, while the nearby Gorman multipurpose room encourages collaboration and conversation.
“With our new space, we’re able to have more diverse learning opportunities and engage with patients in ways that weren’t possible before,” said first-year resident Shannon Bute. “For example, our consultation rooms allow us to sit privately with patients and families and show them their records on a large screen. Families really appreciate that.”
Carrie Runyon (DDS ’24), now a first-year resident, witnessed the transformation during her DDS studies. “The clinic will better prepare us for real-world orthodontics in an ever-advancing profession,” she said, noting the enhanced hands-on training and diversity in treatment modalities.
“Having access to state-of-the-art equipment really makes a difference in our clinical training,” added first-year resident Kelly Sheehy. “It helps us work more efficiently and provide greater comfort for our patients. Overall, it boosts our confidence and ensures we’re fully prepared to step into the professional world.”
This transition was more than a decade in the making. According to Dr. Katherine Kula, the previous department chair, she had focused efforts on acquiring the technology necessary for patient research and care. She made strides in building the clinic’s capabilities, and deliberately mentored Stewart to prepare him for future success.
“The clinic was something we needed and wanted,” she said, “so I tried to get things in order before my retirement, so that Dr. Stewart would be ready to raise funds and build.”
Stewart—who partnered with the school’s fundraising team to champion the cause—credits the university, school leadership, colleagues, external partners, and donors for bringing his vision to life. Each chair includes a plaque honoring a clinic donor, which Stewart says is more than an acknowledgment.
“They are symbols of trust, passion, and a shared commitment to excellence,” he said. “Walking through the clinic and seeing those names reminds me of the powerful legacy we are building together.”
Stewart hopes those who experienced the renovation firsthand remember what can be achieved through collaboration and engagement. For future residents, faculty, and patients, he hopes the space inspires a relentless pursuit of excellence.
“As one of our new clinic plaques proudly states, ‘Excellence Starts Here,’” he shared. “We want everyone who enters this space to embrace that mindset and use their time here to shape not only their professional journey but also the communities they serve.”
About the clinic: Patients in the IU School of Dentistry’s orthodontics clinic are treated by licensed dentists who are receiving specialty training as residents in orthodontics. They work under the supervision of licensed experienced faculty to address issues related to jaw and teeth alignment using methods such as braces and appliances. To learn more or make an appointment, call 317-274-8573 or email dsoofg@iu.edu.