Norwalk Orthodontist Expands Practice with Unique Training

From Norwalk Orthodontics:

Children with craniofacial deformities and special needs require highly trained specialists, including orthodontists, to manage their sensitivities and specific set of treatment needs. Dr. Efstathios (Steve) Giannoutsos (Dr. G) received additional orthodontic training specifically to work with special needs patients; and the word is out! After establishing his Georgetown Orthodontics practice just a few years ago, and opening Norwalk Orthodontics last year in Norwalk, he plans to expand his practice to accommodate this influx of patients.

Dr. Giannoutsos trained for the subspecialty of Craniofacial, Cleft and Special Needs Orthodontics under the renowned reconstructive plastic surgeon, Dr. Joseph G. McCarthy as well as the esteemed orthodontist, Dr. Barry Grayson. These men are recognized as the premier specialists for craniofacial deformities and have both developed innovative techniques for improving craniofacial care.

Since opening his orthodontic practices in Connecticut, Dr. Giannoutsos has treated several patients with cleft palate and craniofacial issues. Each patient is given a tour of the office and introduced to Dr. Giannoutsos, as well as the various staff team members, before beginning treatment. Dr. G speaks with them to learn what their behaviors and concerns are so that he can tailor his orthodontic work to their individual needs. For example, since many children on the spectrum have oral aversion he must apply pressure on the mouth continually while the work is being performed. Transitions (both acutely during treatment and as well as the various stages) are also a real challenge for these patients so it takes them longer than to become comfortable with the process. Dr. G and his assistants also distract children by engaging them with conversation, music and video which helps keep them calm.

Taking impressions is one of the first steps before putting braces on the teeth and it is usually a relatively simple procedure. However, it can be extremely difficult for patients on the spectrum. Dr. G makes the process look effortless but the reality is that sometimes one child requires ten appointments before they will allow an impression to be done. They are often desensitized through simulation processes, such as using a fluoride tray at home with parents and siblings, making the office experience a more familiar one. Simulation is also necessary for managing taste aversions so before putting braces on these patients’ teeth Dr. G. practices several times to allow them to become comfortable with the plan. He constantly evaluates new ways to make progress in the delivery of care to the patients who need it most. And he recently purchased a new machine, called an intra-oral scanner, which eliminates the need to take conventional impressions. It employs revolutionary digital camera technology to capture a highly accurate record of the teeth and surrounding structures, eliminating the need for using messy impression materials.

The practice has grown so rapidly that last year he hired a part-time associate, Ankush Kahanna, DMD MBE to work with him. Dr. Khanna shares Dr. G’s passion for orthodontics. He was the Chief Resident at New York University, teaches at night at New York Methodist Hospital, as well as operates his own practice in Park Slope, Brooklyn. He isalso a member of The Spear Study Club, which has a select group of dental practitioners who meets regularly to improve patient care.

As Dr. G says, “I work as a therapist and an orthodontist with these patients. It takes tremendous understanding of their particular issues, as well as trial and error to determine the best procedure that works for a given patient on a given day. However, it is rewarding when severe facial or dental abnormalities are corrected. The child looks and feels great when treatment is completed and so do I. The parents are also elated. This experience enhances my work as well as provides me with a tremendous feeling of professional satisfaction.” Dr. Kahanna adds, “I have been passionate about this work since I was in high school. And working with Dr. G. is a great experience, while the patients make each day challenging and rewarding”.

Dr. Giannoutsos’s offices are located at 73 Redding Road in Georgetown, CT, and 10 Mott Avenue, in Norwalk, Ct. The hours vary based on location. Both offices can be reached at (203)-544-9338.