Dr. Michael Koufos is a licensed and certified orthodontist. Dr. Koufoss practice is limited exclusively to orthodontics. Since 1988, his practice has treated more than 13,000 smiles! His true passion has been in education through learning, teaching, and coaching.
Dr. Koufos was born and raised in Munster, Indiana where he attended Munster High School. After high school, he continued his education at Indiana University, Bloomington, and earned a BS in biological sciences. After graduation from college, Dr. Koufos continued another six years at the Indiana University School of Dentistry.
Dr. Koufos earned his four-year DDS (Doctorate of Dental Surgery) with distinction and was privileged to continue an additional two years of dental education in the orthodontic program to earn his certificate of specialty in orthodontics.
In 1988, Dr. Koufos began his career with one of the premier orthodontic practices in the state. Orthodontics Inc. was founded by Dr. Joseph R. Jarabak (est. 1968), who was one of the most published and world-renowned orthodontists of his time. Dr. Koufos recalled, Dr. Jarabak was an incredible inspiration and reason for me to return to northwest Indiana to practice orthodontics.'Other retired Ortho Inc. colleagues includeDr. Donnie Rooksberry, Dr. Tom Cavanaugh, Dr. Sheldon Altschul, Dr. Ken Hyde and still practicing is Dr. Chuck Hurst and Dr. David Albright,who is currently teaching at IU School of Dentistry.
Dr. Koufos currently serves as an adjunct visiting clinical professor for the Department of Orthodontics and Oral Facial Genetics at Indiana University School of Dentistry where he teaches Interdisciplinary Treatment Planning to senior dental students. He was formerly a faculty member starting in 2009.
Professionally, Dr. Koufos was appointed as an assistant instructor for the McLaughlin Program. This course is located in San Diego. It consists of several post-graduate courses for peer orthodontists. Dr. Rick McLaughlin is the innovator and lead instructor for this continuing education series. Dr. Koufos feels very humbled to be involved with this program.
He recently developed theLearning Exchange for teaching and co-partnering with dental colleagues to communicate beneficial dental exchanges on treatment planning and various topics of learning through academic dental education. Dr. Koufos is certified to help his staff and dental colleagues earn required dental educational credits.
In line with his love for teaching, in 2014Dr. Koufos was invited to speak at the Conferinta Dental Focus in Paltinis, Romania, where he served as a conference lecturer to peer orthodontists. He also served as a speaker at the prestigious biennial Burstone Symposium, hosted by the IU School of Dentistry in Indianapolis.
Dr. Koufos is a member of the Spear Study Club for Interdisciplinary Treatment, and the Northwest Indiana Dental Study Club on Interdisciplinary Treatment Planning. He and a group of local dentists were named the top recipients for the Seattle Study Club (SSC) International Case Study Competition. These doctors were recognized for their case study on the front cover of the SSC Journal Magazine.
Dr. Koufos enjoys his time serving on many professional dental organizations, including the American Dental Association (ADA), for which he served as a delegate for seven years. He was also the chairman of the strategic planning committee for three years. One of his proudest accomplishments was serving as vice-speaker and speaker of the house for the Indiana Dental Association (IDA) House of Delegates for more than 11 years.
Being a part of a local community has afforded Dr. Koufos many wonderful experiences. As a soccer enthusiast, he has earned both a D and E Coaching Certificate from the US Soccer Federation. Dr. K continues to play locally on several mens recreational soccer teams in both indoor and outdoor soccer. He also shares the love of soccer with his daughters and the Lady Mustangs soccer team. During the season, Dr. Koufos assists with goalie training and has been the public address announcer for 9 years.
He also served as the team dentist for Munster High School Athletics, and for over 25 years has volunteered his time to make mouthguards for the high school football team. Dr. Koufos has been a strong supporter of many community athletic programs, including Lake Central, Crown Point, and local private schools.
Lastly, Dr. Koufoss pride and joy will always be his family. He and his wife Amy are parishioners at St. Thomas More church and have been married for over 30 years. Together they share the love of their four daughters: Sophie, Olivia, and Emily (twins), and Samantha.
Dr. Koufos is especially proud that his daughter Emily is following in his footsteps as an Orthodontic Resident at Indiana Universitys School of Dentistry. In 2019, Dr. Emily received her DMD, Doctor of Dental Medicinedegree at Midwestern University in Chicago. She soon will be an Orthodontist graduating in 2021. We cannot wait to see her create new, beautiful smiles!
We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve toreceive orthodonticcarethatreflectstheirindividual needs. Our experienced and talented team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding orthodontic experience every time you visit our practice.
Our highly trained team has served an average of 18 years of patient care at Orthodontic Specialists!Most of our Orthodontic Assistants have earned additional certifications to become Certified Orthodontic Assistants. Our desire is to always provide you with the best in chairside patient care using the safest PPE.
In 2018, Dr. Koufos wanted to show recognition for his team by establishing The Ultimate Advocate Award. Each year, this unique award observes employees who best represent,promote and champion the values of our practice. These exceptional advocates are awarded a special VIP weekend getaway with their spouse or guest. We are truly grateful to have the best staff in orthodontics!
We are committed to providing the highest quality clinical care and personalized service in a warm and compassionate atmosphere. Dr. Koufos and staff enjoy getting to know each patient and their families and love creating relationships that last multiple generations.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 148 reviews
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a year ago
The entire 1st appointment experience was very thorough and exceeded my expectations. The administrative and clinical staff were very knowledgeable and pleasant. Dr. Koufas is one of the best in his field. I am a 42 year dental professional and his knowledge and expertise is outstanding. Thanks you Dr K and staff for a pleasant visit . Cheri M
CARTHRON
a year ago
Always a great time with Terri and Dr. Koufos. They are very personable and definitely genuinely care about their patients.
Robin Thompson
a year ago
Staff are very nice. Always prompt. Called in for an issue and they were able to see me same day due to a cancelation. So glad I chose this Orthodontic Practice.
Nicholas Meduga
a year ago
It was good
Anthony DiAnni
a year ago
It was a very nice facility with very nice and friendly faculty, they were always flexible and the appointments were quick with little wait times.
Ryan Gardner
a year ago
Dr. Koufos and the staff are great! Helped my smile after many years of hard work! Thank you!!
Kendra Rather
2 years ago
Professional, honest
Sara Bintz
2 years ago
Everything about our experience has been top notch. The staff was wonderful and Dr. Koufas is personable and extremely knowledgeable. Will be taking all my kids here for their ortho needs.
Ebony Williams
2 years ago
I have been a patient of Dr. K for many years. My office visits there are always pleasant and timely. I have always been greeted with politely and with grace. The bedside manners of the back room staff and the customer service of the office staff is impeccable. Not only have I been a patient, but all three of my children has gone through orthodontic treatment plans with Dr. K as well. We are a very satisfied family. I highly recommend Dr. K for all of your orthodontic needs. Ebony
Amanda Frank
2 years ago
The staff is so patient and accommodating to my daughter with severe anxiety and sensory issues. I have been blown away with their kindness and gentle approach. I would recommend Orthodontic Specialists over and over again!
Becca Patton
2 years ago
Everyone at the office is so friendly and patient with my family. When my older one continuously broke brackets by eating what she shouldn't, they were firm but kind. While consulting on my younger daughter, they never rushed service, they waited and took time with us and her, never asked for payment for the time they spent with us while waiting for her teeth to be ready for treatment. Five stars all day, everyday!! No complaints!
Hannah Classen
2 years ago
I was incredibly disappointed by my experience coming back to Orthodontics Specialists. I have been a patient for 15 years- I literally grew up with dr. Albright so going back only seemed fitting as I want to continue to give my business to good places that I believe in. So last Christmas I tried to make an appointment to have my glued in retainer looked at and the front desk staff was TERRIBLE. They would not let me make an appointment and said I must get a consult before I could get the retainer looked at- crazy because I have always gone there. I went back home without getting it checked. Fast forward to this year- the retainer is broken so I called again leaving time for a consult if needed but was able to get in without it with the front desk person saying "that doesn't sound like something we'd say" as if I was confused who I had called the first time. I flew in and immediately went to the office, right before a scheduled dental cleaning. The assistant looked in my mouth and rudely announced there's tarter stuck behind the retainer. Well I had been traveling, I was due for the cleaning I had next, and the retainer has been glued in for 7 years. No bedside manner whatsoever. Then seeing the orthodontist he said "surly there are plenty of places you can get this done where you live" are you kidding me? Apparently my business is no longer appreciated after pouring thousands into that place. Incredibly rude. Very disappointing after so many years as a client and knowing Dr. Albright would have never said that to me. Bummer to see this place slipping. The new orthodontist, Emily, was kind and took an extra moment to take a look at my mouth and Dr. Koufus explains things well, but the cons outweigh the pros here.
Marinel Pediangco
2 years ago
accomodating
Debra
2 years ago
Such a friendly, welcoming office. Dr. Koufos is incredibly thorough in explaining treatment. I'm so pleased my daughter is a patient in this wonderful practice!
Natalie Simaga
2 years ago
I was so impressed with this experience from the moment I called in for the appointment and spoke with Vickie, then we had our daughter's appointment today and met Sandi and had our consultation with Terri and Dr Koufos. Everyone was so friendly, professional and made my daughter's experience very positive. Dr. Koufos has an excellent bedside manor and has a great practice.
Lora Firlit
2 years ago
Everyone was very nice and helpful. Would recommend.
Lisa Somers
2 years ago
Dr Koufus and Terry were so great during our consultation. Dr took the time to thoroughly examine my sons scans, discuss the treatment plan and even take extra steps so my son and I knew what to expect. Terry was welcoming and very kind throughout our time there. Very organized operation. So glad my sister referred us.
Agnieszka DeMik
2 years ago
We love Orthodontic Specialist!! From the moment you walk in you're treated like a family!! Dr Koufos and staff and simply THE BEST!!
Julie O'Connor
2 years ago
Did an amazing job with my daughters teeth. Thank you
Angie Mahaffey-Hemann
2 years ago
Such a friendly staff from the moment I walked in!
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