A CULTURE OF KINDNESS
Your experience is the most important thing in our practice — flat out.
It’s about the way a patient feels when they walk through our doors for the first time, how they feel when they leave with that beautiful smile that they’ve always wanted, and every interaction in between. It all matters, and not just to the doctors.
Each and every person on our team understands that they have the ability to enhance or detract from that feeling. That’s why together, we make the conscious choice to treat every patient with kindness, compassion, and honesty.
Dedicated to Excellence
Each member of our Clinical Team is a Certified Specialized Assistant.
Tell us about your family.
I met my husband at the Southside St. Patrick’s Day Parade in my last year of college. We didn’t exchange phone numbers at the time, because I was headed to Italy for school and he was headed back to the military. But the next day, I ended up in the hospital with food poisoning, and he heard about it through the grapevine. He contacted me in the hospital, we exchanged phone numbers, and the rest is history! We’ve now been married eight years and have a wonderful, sassy, 6-year-old daughter. We enjoy spending “Sunday Funday” at my grandmother’s with our extended family and friends.
I met my husband at the Southside St. Patrick’s Day Parade in my last year of college. We didn’t exchange phone numbers at the time, because I was headed to Italy for school and he was headed back to the military. But the next day, I ended up in the hospital with food poisoning, and he heard about it through the grapevine. He contacted me in the hospital, we exchanged phone numbers, and the rest is history! We’ve now been married eight years and have a wonderful, sassy, 6-year-old daughter. We enjoy spending “Sunday Funday” at my grandmother’s with our extended family and friends.
If you could go anywhere on vacation for free, where would it be, and why?
I would take my daughter and grandmother to France. I’ve had the privilege of traveling there on occasion with my grandmother and hearing her stories of growing up during World War II. I would love for my daughter to see how my grandmother’s experiences have molded her passion for life and love for others. That would truly be a gift.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love that our team develops their own leadership positions based on their skills and the needs of the practice. I love that they promote growth as a professional and as a person. I love that we guide employees as they transition through new journeys in life. I love Dr. Bicknell’s optimistic approach when tackling hurdles, and I couldn’t be more proud to call each team member an extension of my family.
What is your favorite movie, and why?
I love horror movies! The original Texas Chainsaw Massacre is my favorite. I love the suspense at the pivotal moment in the film.
I love horror movies! The original Texas Chainsaw Massacre is my favorite. I love the suspense at the pivotal moment in the film.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love seeing our patients! They become like family, and it’s cool to see people grow and change their smiles from great to amazing!
What was your favorite TV show growing up, and why?
Sabrina, the Teenage Witch. I loved the spells and the talking cat, Salem.
What is your favorite local restaurant, and why?
Capital Grill. Great food, great service and great atmosphere.
Capital Grill. Great food, great service and great atmosphere.
If you could choose anywhere to go on vacation for free, where would you go, and why?
I would go to Tahiti or any tropical island.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love the different ages of our patients — young, teens and adults, and I love getting to know them.
What TV show are you most likely to binge-watch, and why?
Futurama. It has it all. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry, and it has legit scientific theories and equations in it. It never gets old!
Futurama. It has it all. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry, and it has legit scientific theories and equations in it. It never gets old!
What’s the worst pet you’ve ever had?
I had hermit crabs with SpongeBob SquarePants-painted shells. They were horrible conversationalists.
Do you have any strange fears or phobias?
I’m afraid of getting things stuck in my ears — specifically flying insects. Even mid-conversation, I will cover my ears if I see anything flying around me! But don’t worry if I do it, I’m still paying attention to you!
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love seeing the transformations in our patients.
I love seeing the transformations in our patients.
What sport do you love to watch, and why?
I love baseball, because my mom would take us to watch the Chicago White Sox games a lot.
Tell us about your family.
I have two children, ages 10 and 11, as well as three dogs and two cats.
What do you love about your job, and why?
There is so much to love! I love that I come and go every day feeling as if I am truly making a difference. I love that I work for someone who empowers me, educates me, shares his knowledge with me, and invests in me. I love that they allow me to pour my passion and knowledge of inventory and purchasing into this field and that they have allowed me to grow my career past being a clinical specialist. I came into the field not realizing that my extensive retail background would translate into orthodontics. I can credit our workplace for much of my personal growth. I love that our culture is about kindness, honesty, and happiness. That is the type of environment and the type of people I want to be surrounded by daily.
There is so much to love! I love that I come and go every day feeling as if I am truly making a difference. I love that I work for someone who empowers me, educates me, shares his knowledge with me, and invests in me. I love that they allow me to pour my passion and knowledge of inventory and purchasing into this field and that they have allowed me to grow my career past being a clinical specialist. I came into the field not realizing that my extensive retail background would translate into orthodontics. I can credit our workplace for much of my personal growth. I love that our culture is about kindness, honesty, and happiness. That is the type of environment and the type of people I want to be surrounded by daily.
Who or what inspires you, and why?
I am truly inspired by nature and creation. I am faith-driven, which brings meaning and purpose into my life. I’m very connected to the outdoors, whether tending my garden and cooking the things I grow, or being outside for any reason, from boating, snowboarding, or hiking to just watching the sunrise or sunset. I feel the most in-tune with myself, and I feel fulfilled and at peace.
If you could go anywhere on vacation for free, where would it be, and why?
I would go to the Arctic Bath Hotel and Spa in Sweden. I need to see the Northern Lights before I leave this Earth. That is my biggest bucket list item. I probably would also tackle some snowboarding while there.
What TV show are you most likely to binge-watch, and why?
Friends! I love each character in the show, and they all have something different to add, which makes it entertaining and funny and keeps me watching.
Friends! I love each character in the show, and they all have something different to add, which makes it entertaining and funny and keeps me watching.
Who or what inspires you, and why?
My older sister, Veronica. She’s strong, fearless, and kind and has an amazing work ethic.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love seeing all the fabulous smiles at the end of treatment!
Who or what inspires you, and why?
My inspiration is my mother. She has nine children and hasn’t “lost it.” As an adult, I now understand a lot of the decisions she had to make, and it inspires me not only to be the best mom but also to be the best human I can be.
My inspiration is my mother. She has nine children and hasn’t “lost it.” As an adult, I now understand a lot of the decisions she had to make, and it inspires me not only to be the best mom but also to be the best human I can be.
What was your favorite TV show growing up, and why?
The Wild Thornberrys. I wanted to be just like Eliza and be able to talk to animals. Her parents were awesome, and Donnie was perfect.
If you could go anywhere on vacation for free, where would it be, and why?
I would like to go to Africa. I want to see everything from the pyramids to King Tut and his relatives.
What was your favorite TV show growing up, and why?
Hannah Montana. I loved the idea of living a secret life as a pop star while being able to live a normal life.
Hannah Montana. I loved the idea of living a secret life as a pop star while being able to live a normal life.
If you could choose anywhere to go on vacation for free, where would it be, and why?
Greece. I’ve always dreamed of going there. It’s such a beautiful country.
What is your favorite holiday, and why?
Halloween. It’s around my favorite season, and I get to dress up.
Who or what inspires you, and why?
I’m inspired by people who don’t give up despite their circumstances, people who always push for more despite the weight already on their shoulders, people who make my life brighter every day just by smiling, such as my parents, my boyfriend, friends and even strangers.
I’m inspired by people who don’t give up despite their circumstances, people who always push for more despite the weight already on their shoulders, people who make my life brighter every day just by smiling, such as my parents, my boyfriend, friends and even strangers.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love the opportunities I’ve been given, the family orientation and the fact that I know I’ll always count on someone to help me thrive here.
What’s your favorite local restaurant, and why?
There are too many options! But I love Mexican food, so for me it would be La Michocana in the north side. It’s like having my mom’s cooking.
Who or what inspires you, and why?
My daughter, Ariana. She helps push me to be a better version of myself for her.
My daughter, Ariana. She helps push me to be a better version of myself for her.
What TV show are you most likely to binge-watch, and why?
Grey’s Anatomy, all day, every day!
What was your favorite TV show growing up, and why?
Jersey Shore
Who or what inspires you, and why?
My mom has always been my inspiration. She has always been so selfless, loving and strong. I’m blessed to have a mother with all those attributes. Hopefully, it has rubbed off on me.
My mom has always been my inspiration. She has always been so selfless, loving and strong. I’m blessed to have a mother with all those attributes. Hopefully, it has rubbed off on me.
If you could choose anywhere to go on vacation for free, where would it be, and why?
I would go to the Fiji Islands. It’s a very beautiful and special place.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I am fortunate to work in a profession with amazing patients who are excited about the services we offer. We also have an amazingly kind and talented team, with whom I love working. I get to work with my best friend and husband every day.
What is your favorite local restaurant, and why?
Jose Maria’s in Geneva, Illinois. Laura, the owner, makes everything fresh, and she gets many of her recipes from her mother.
Jose Maria’s in Geneva, Illinois. Laura, the owner, makes everything fresh, and she gets many of her recipes from her mother.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love working with this group of people. They are like family to me.
What is your favorite movie, and why?
Ferris Bueller's Day Off
Tell us about your family.
I have a loving husband and a son, Liam, who light up my world. I love spending my free time with family and friends and going on walks with my dog, Nova.
I have a loving husband and a son, Liam, who light up my world. I love spending my free time with family and friends and going on walks with my dog, Nova.
Who or what inspires you, and why?
My parents inspire me. They are both hard working and are my guides. They give me the courage to battle obstacles in life.
What sports do you love to watch, and why?
I love watching baseball! Go Cubs!
What TV shows are you most likely to binge-watch, and why?
King of the Hill. I grew up catching the beginning of a few episodes right before bed. I always knew it was time for bed because “that boring show was on.” Now that I’m a little older, it’s the right amount of dry humor. I enjoy getting to know all of the characters and their quirky personalities.
King of the Hill. I grew up catching the beginning of a few episodes right before bed. I always knew it was time for bed because “that boring show was on.” Now that I’m a little older, it’s the right amount of dry humor. I enjoy getting to know all of the characters and their quirky personalities.
Do you have any hidden talents, and if so, what are they?
I’m a self-taught roller skater! I’ve been skating for almost four years, and falling still doesn't get much easier.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love working here because everyone shares the same vision and is dedicated to exceeding our patients’ expectations. This truly cultivates a family environment in which everyone is there for one another and where knowledge is limitless.
If you could have one superpower, what would it be, and why?
I would like the power to heal. There is nothing more frustrating than seeing a loved one sick.
I would like the power to heal. There is nothing more frustrating than seeing a loved one sick.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love making retainers. It is an art form for me. There is something so rewarding about knowing that I can use my hands to create something that will be so beneficial for someone else.
What was your favorite TV show growing up, and why?
Saved by the Bell, it was relatable!
What was your favorite TV show growing up, and why?
The Powerpuff Girls! I loved how their dad was a scientist and created them with a special chemical that gave them superpowers and allowed them to fight criminals and save the world.
The Powerpuff Girls! I loved how their dad was a scientist and created them with a special chemical that gave them superpowers and allowed them to fight criminals and save the world.
What is your favorite holiday, and why?
Definitely Christmas, because I enjoy decorating and surprising my family and friends with presents.
What do you love about your job, and why?
I love being able to be a part of the patient’s journey while helping them create amazing smiles!
What was your favorite TV show growing up?
Mighty Morphin Power Ranger. Why? Because I have taste.
Mighty Morphin Power Ranger. Why? Because I have taste.
What are your pet peeves?
When someone leaves their turn signal on, and people who don't return their shopping cart.
What or who inspires you?
Danny Devito! What a career!
What TV show are you most likely to binge watch?
The Office! I can sit and watch that whole show for hours and never get sick of it!
The Office! I can sit and watch that whole show for hours and never get sick of it!
What is your favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving. I love to see all my family together, plus you can't go wrong with all the food!
If you could have one superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation. I would love to be able to switch locations in the blink of an eye. Imagine the possibilities!
What is your favorite movie?
The Greatest Showman is my favorite movie because the film has everything you need such as music, dancing, and a great meaning behind it as well.
The Greatest Showman is my favorite movie because the film has everything you need such as music, dancing, and a great meaning behind it as well.
What sports do you love to watch?
I love to watch tennis and baseball. I started playing tennis in high school and fell in love with the sport. I grew up watching The Cubs so I have always been a fan of baseball.
If you could choose anywhere to go on vacation, for free, where would it be?
I would love to go to Paris because I took French in high school and learned about their cuisines. So what better way to reconnect with what I learned by ordering food in French.
YOU DESERVE THE BEST
To be certified by the American Association of Orthodontists, each of our team members has achieved a minimum of 2,250 hours of experience, graduated from an accredited program and also had to score highly on a rigorous test.
At Advanced Orthodontic Specialists, we require every member of our clinical team to be a Certified Specialized Assistant. Not because it’s required by the state — it’s not. Simply because we strive to be the best! And we’re proud to say that you won’t find another orthodontic office around with such a highly-trained team.
