Orthodontics, to me, is a way of serving my community. I grew up in the Beverly Neighborhood and have always called Chicago home. Nothing makes me happier than encountering a familiar smile on the street: it is amazing to be in a profession where I have the opportunity to make a lifelong, positive change in each patients life!

Growing up, I enjoyed science and problem solving; I am also creative and detailoriented. Becoming an orthodontist meant I was able to bring my interests and abilities together, and in doing so help people lead healthier, happier lives.

One of the greatest rewards of my profession, and one I was not initially aware of, is the time I get to spend with patients. Each person starts orthodontics with the goal of straighter teeth and an improved smile. Throughout treatment, I see the person change sometimes from visit to visit as they see the visible change in their appearance. People become more comfortable with how they look, which increases their self-esteem and boosts their inner confidence.

One of the most exciting aspects of the orthodontic specialty is the ongoing research that leads to new technologies and techniques. While the mechanics of tooth movement are well known, there are now many options available to achieving the same ideal results.

I have been practicing for 20 years and in that time how I practice the diagnostic technologies, treatment planning, and methodologies have all evolved. By staying at the forefront of these changes, taking courses, attending meetings and lectures, and participating in study groups, I constantly learn and bring that knowledge back to my practice and the care I offer.

My wife Tracy and I are very involved in our childrens activities and school, as well as our parish. I enjoy coaching youth basketball and volunteering for local charitable organizations that keep our community stable and thriving. Most of my weekends are spent coaching or attending and supporting my kids sporting events and other extracurricular activities.

In my free time, in addition to coaching I also play basketball and love water sports: swimming, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. I am also a huge fan of Chicago sports, especially the Bears and White Sox!

Dr. Alniemi is a Board-Certified Orthodontist and a member of the American Dental Association, the American Board of Orthodontics, and the American Association of Orthodontics. She obtained her dental degree at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, then practiced as a general dentist in Minnesota before moving to Colorado for her Orthodontics Specialty Residency training. Now she has made her way back to the Midwest and is so excited to be a part of the Burke Orthodontics team!

'Orthodontic treatment can change a person 's life in amazing ways, and I know this firsthand! As a kid, I never used to smile because I was embarrassed by my crooked teeth, but getting braces changed everything. I saw incredible changes in my teeth over the course of treatment, and the results were amazing. Eventually, you couldn 't get me to stop smiling!

Orthodontics is truly life changing for people of all ages with all types of orthodontic needs. Dr. Burke and I are committed to evaluating each patient 's specific wants and needs and creating a custom treatment plan to deliver the best esthetic and functional smile possible for each individual patient. Everybody deserves to have a smile they love, and we would be honored to help you get yours!'

When she's not working hard perfecting smiles, Dr. Alniemi enjoys a variety of activities including baking and cake decorating, ice skating, biking, photography, and gardening. She enjoys traveling the country to visit her family and has three nephews that she loves to spoil endlessly. She also likes trying new restaurants too, so be sure to give her your suggestions for the Chicagoland area!

Amanda, a Certified Dental Assistant, has worked in the field since 2014 and joined Burke Orthodontics in 2018. She assists Dr. Burke with different procedures and offers patient education and encouragement.

Beth has been in the orthodontic field for over 16 years. She fell in love with the process and never left. At Burke Orthodontics, she manages our staff and practice, as well as works with new patients and families as theyre starting their orthodontic journey. Outside the office, Beth has a wonderful blended family which keeps her busy. She believes in living a balanced life, so she makes time to work out and pursue retail therapy, too.

While Cassandra may be new to the orthodontic field, she's had an interest in it for a long time. When she's not in the office, she enjoys teaching at the local gym, taking vacations, and outdoor activities when the weather is warm.

Dawn started working in the dental field in 1994. She spends her days in the clinic, assisting Dr. Burke as he crafts amazing smiles and making sure patients are comfortable during procedures. When shes not at work, Dawn enjoys time with her husband, three children, and their dogs!

Katelyn, a Certified Dental Assistant, has been with Burke Orthodontics since 2006. As our Clinical Coordinator, she keeps our clinic organized and running efficiently. She also provides chairside assistance to Dr. Burke during various procedures. Outside the office, Katelyn enjoys time with her husband and two perfect little girls.

Lauren started in the field in 2017 and joined our practice in 2018. She works in the clinic where she assists Dr. Burke, performs required adjustments, and provides helpful oral health education and encouragement to patients. When shes not working, Lauren is usually enjoying time with her daughter Mia, as well as family and friends. She loves the outdoors and looks forward to visiting Florida as often as she can.

Lexi joined the orthodontic field in 2021. She enjoys our office's constant positivity and our genuine passion to help people love their smile. In her free time, Lexi likes to draw, paint, and spend time with her dog.

Maggie started in the field in 2007 and joined Burke Orthodontics in 2008. She meets with new patients and families reviewing the financial aspects of treatment, and sets up payment terms that fit with each familys budget. Beyond the office, Maggie enjoys time with her husband, college-aged children, and their family dog. Her favorite hobby is working out and staying healthy.

Pamela started with Burke Orthodontics in 2003 as an orthodontic assistant and then transitioned to the front office. She oversees all aspects of patient accounts, ensuring everything is up-to-date. Pamela and her husband John have been married for over 35 years. They have two children, Carrie and John, as well as four granddaughters and a grandson. Pamela loves time with her family and cheering on the White Sox.

Sarah joined Burke Orthodontics in 2008. She works chairside assisting Dr. Burke, guiding patients through their orthodontic journey. Beyond the office, Sarah loves time with her husband, Joseph, and their son Lucas. We are a social family and always have something going on, whether thats a sporting event or traveling to New Buffalo and hanging out with friends.

A true people person, Susan has been in the orthodontic field for more than 35 years. She enjoys spending her free time with family and friends, taking long walks, fishing with her husband, and reading.

Susie has been with the team since 2003, handling all the insurance paperwork and claims for patients and the office. She brings over 30 years of experience to the practice, making sure that insurance runs smoothly. She hasthreewonderful boys and one grandchild. She is very active in church, P.E.O. and golf. She also loves to playpiano, walk herdog, sew and paint.

Choosing orthodontic treatment is choosing to make a lasting, life-improving change in your life. Everyone at Burke Orthodontics is excited youre thinking about braces for yourself or your child and looks forward to meeting and speaking with you.