I feel fortunate to be part of a profession that I am passionate about. I grew up in a family of physicians and dentists and early on developed an interest in healthcare. Dentistry and specifically orthodontics attracted me as I saw how people with healthy smiles seemed to have more confidence.
After comprehensive training and working in private practice since 1984 I have developed extensive experience to care for patients with complex dental issues. This perspective has been invaluable when treating patients with the most common orthodontic problems. Having practiced for more than three decades I know the joy of treating not only whole families but children of former patients as well.
I have been a member of the Medical Advisory Board for The Smile Train since 2004 and have traveled to many countries teaching local orthodontists and surgeons treatment approaches for patients with clefts and other craniofacial conditions. I have also coordinated and participated in many surgical missions to treat underserved children with clefts in Guatemala.
After completing dental school, I obtained my Orthodontics Specialty Certificate at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Eastman Institute for Oral Health. I received my Pediatric Dentistry Specialty Certificate at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), where I also earned a Masters of Science degree in Oral Health.
I completed two fellowships: one at the Center for Craniofacial Anomalies at the UIC, and one in Craniofacial Development at the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.
I attend meetings to stay current with the latest advances in our profession and to ensure my patients are getting the best care possible. Frequently I am asked to lecture nationally and internationally and have published over 100 research articles and book chapters in the cleft/craniofacial field.
I have been married to Michele for over 30 years and have two wonderful sons: Alex, an orthodontist and partner in our practice, and Aaron, an Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon at the University of Iowa.
Our favorite pastime is being with our sons, family and many good friends. Michele and I also enjoy riding our tandem bike, playing golf, tennis, boating and water skiing. I am an avid runner and completed the Maryland marathon.
The best part about being an orthodontist is interacting with our patients and getting to know each one personally. I enjoy building relationships with patients and their families while seeing each patient mature and blossom.
I have worked in our orthodontic practice since I was 15 years old starting as a laboratory technician making retainers. I progressed to being a chair-side assistant, and completing my training, I am now an orthodontist and partner in the practice.
Working in tandem with my father is fantastic and brings an added sense of family to our office. Every person presents his or her own challenges and goals, and therefore I enjoy making each treatment unique and highly personalized. It is extremely rewarding to see the excitement and improved confidence a great smile brings to our patients.
I received my Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) at Case Western Reserve University School of Dental Medicine in Cleveland, Ohio. In addition, I obtained an Orthodontics Specialty Certificate and a Certificate in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMJD) at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Eastman Institute for Oral Health in Rochester, New York.
In addition to our private orthodontic practice, I am actively involved in orthodontic and craniofacial research as a part of the Craniofacial Team at Rush University Medical center. I attend meetings and continuing education programs of the organizations to which I belong to ensure that I stay on top of the latest orthodontic techniques, treatments, technology and research. I have also served on the board of the West Suburban branch of the CDS and lectured both nationally and internationally on various orthodontic and craniofacial topics.
We love to explore all Chicago has to offer including sporting events, the lake front and finding new and unique restaurants. I also try to stay active year round biking, golfing, water and snow skiing.
At Figueroa Orthodontics we are fortunate to have a well-trained, compassionate, and fun loving team that makes for a fantastic patient experience. Each individual brings their unique set of skills to our office and helps to create an inviting family feel in which everyone works well together. Drs. Figueroa
Our caring doctors and the exceptional team are what sets Figueroa Orthodontics apart. We are a friendly family practice with a focus on excellence and detail and our doctors and staff are eager and available to answer your questions. You will always see Dr. Alvaro or Dr. Alex Figueroa during your visit. In addition to achieving a fantastic smile, what we find most rewarding is getting to know you and your family.
In addition to conventional orthodontic patients, Dr. Alvaro Figueroa and Dr. Alex Figueroa are an integral part of several craniofacial teams both in Chicago and the suburbs, offering treatment to infants with cleft lip and palate, and to children, teens and adults with all types of craniofacial anomalies. We see special needs patients as well as patients requiring surgical interventions who may present more treatment challenges. Over the years, we have developed an excellent network of dental, medical, and surgical specialists so we can assist patients with complex needs and treatment requirements.
We think you will enjoy stepping into our comfortable, friendly offices where you can relax while waiting with a beverage, the most current magazines, free Wi-Fi, calming music, and an upbeat and positive team.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 78 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestChristopher Bulwa
a year ago
I enjoyed my experience due to the kind and caring staff and doctors.
Vicky Junge
a year ago
If I could rate Figueroa Ortho 100 stars I would!! Every single person in the office is kind, knowledgeable and professional. After an oral cancer diagnosis and initial surgery, my jaw was left severely misaligned, causing chewing problems and a crooked smile. The Figueroa team went above and beyond in helping me find the right surgeon and coordinating with her in creating a pre/ post surgical plan. The office is gorgeous and feels like a spa. I love my new smile, but will miss seeing Doc and Dr. Alex and their staff!
David Schmidt
a year ago
Update: After 26 months my teeth have finally cooperated and settled into position. Grateful to everyone at Fig Ortho for the kind, thoughtful and professional manners. Highly skilled, always a pleasure to be around and the environment is modern, clean and inviting. The team at Fig Ortho are outstanding. I am a 56 yo man who was referred to Dr Figueroa to improve the spacing in my lower front teeth as part of a tooth extraction/replacement plan. We are 5 mos into the plan and I am delighted with the early results and appreciate the active communication with all the drs involved. I highly recommend Drs Alex and Alvaro for your adult or adolescent orthodontia needs.
Dawn Dream
2 years ago
I couldn't have asked for a better team to take care of me. I highly recommend both doctors!. I'm a very nervous person when it comes to mouth work. I was put at ease immediately and I couldn't be happier with my results!
Claudia Burgos
2 years ago
Super nice staff. We just started the treatment but the doctor seems to be very knowledgeable.
Denise Matamoros
2 years ago
The whole team at Figueroa Orthodontics has been a pleasure to work with. Communication was very clear from the very beginning and it gave me a lot of confidence in their expertise. I always knew what Dr. Alex was trying to accomplish for my 8 yr old son and his estimated timeline. From Dani at the front desk to post-visit follow ups and insurance questions, everything was handled with care and speed. It was extremely efficient and I couldn't have asked for a better overall experience. Highly recommend.
Gabriele Debosio
2 years ago
Very professional on discussing the status of my son tooth and the next steps. The studio is clean and the doctor and the staff are kind and knowledgeable
J
2 years ago
Doctors/Staff: Impeccable chairside manners and patient satisfaction efforts. Experiential knowledge is second-to-none, and clients are always given the necessary time to thoroughly explain each step of the treatment plan (before and during treatment). The entire team works immensely well creating team synergies. Facility Mgmt: Exactly what you would expect, superior in team collaborations, OCD- level cleanliness, and rarely waiting in the queue long before treatment. No financial issues or insurance concerns. Technology and equipment used are top notch. Scheduling/Adaptability: Heroine efforts by Dani to keep clients needs met. She is always knowledgeable of site operations, a flexible planner that is clear in her communications, and a pure pleasure. Team, thank you for a smooth execution and stellar results.
Valeria Stambone
2 years ago
How can I review the providers who gave my husband and I such beautiful smiles? Dr. Alex and Alvaro went above and beyond to help us achieve great results. They are kind, patient and passionate about what they do. I'd also like to thank the front staff Dani and Yesenia and Katia from the clinical team. Katia has always been so patient and willing to answer any questions. Thank you so much!!!
Kiley Hanson
2 years ago
The whole team at Figueroa Orthodontics is incredible. I truly look forward to my appointments because everyone is so kind and welcoming, and I know all of my needs will be met with flying colors. Dr. Alex and Dr. Alvaro are extremely knowledgeable and will do all that they can to make you happy with your smile. I really appreciate their hard work and efficiency. I am very grateful to be part of the Figueroa Orthodontics family, they are the best!
Jessie A
2 years ago
fun staff and now I got a great smile
Evan Gerstein
2 years ago
As an adult not happy with my teeth and smile but wanting a change, I am SO happy with my choice in Figueroa Orthodontics. They were extremely professional, met my needs in every way, including working with me when I lived in another state.
Katy Leman
2 years ago
Dr. Figueroa is phenomenal. An expert at what he does and so kind and compassionate. Would highly recommend his practice to anyone looking for quality orthodontic care and the most friendly environment.
esther Garces
2 years ago
Being a woman in her mid 60's I realized my teeth were getting crooked. I decided to try Invisalign and it has worked perfectly. I went to Dr Alex Figueroa at his Winnetka office and I couldn't be more satisfied with the entire experience. The office is super clean with attention to all Covid protocols. The staff is both friendly and professional. I now have perfectly straight teeth and I am grateful for Dr Alex Figueroa's expertise.
Lisa Rosenfeld
2 years ago
Amazing orthodontists!!!! Braces for my son. Invisalign for myself. Waiting to see what my daughter needs!
N Lospalluto
2 years ago
The entire staff is all very friendly and cares about each patient.
AJ Lospalluto
2 years ago
All the doctors and assistants are very nice and treat us patients well! But Dani is the best! I been coming here for years and it's been a great experience!
Eve Conkey
2 years ago
Best ortho experience ever!
Catherine Hertl
2 years ago
I was treated with Invisalign by Drs. Alvaro and Alex Figueroa and they are just fantastic on every level. I had started my treatment in another state and there were some issues with my treatment plan that the Figueroas patiently and expertly corrected. The office staff was lovely and helpful at every turn. The dental hygienist, Katia, is superb. If you are considering orthodontic treatment, don't hesitate to seek treatment at this practice. They are the best!
Betsy Womack
2 years ago
I would highly recommend Figueroa! The staff is friendly and accommodating and very good at what they do. The office is immaculate and extremely convenient. They are great with kids!!!!
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