As long as I can remember, I knew I would become a dentist and be just like my Dad (Loyola, 1985). His patients remember me running around his small Southside office after pre-school, assisting as a teenager, and have watched me grow up to become the dentist I am today. I like to joke that Im a chip off the old tooth when it comes to my style of practice. After attending college at Augustana College, I attended Southern Illinois University School of Dental Medicine, graduating in 2015. When my mother became ill, I left a post-graduate program in periodontics and implant surgery to help at home and decided to stay so I could help my family after her passing.
Ive worked as an associate in private practices in Illinois and more recently, I spent the last 4 years practicing in beautiful St. Joseph, Michigan. My husband has worked at various NWI hospitals as a surgical neurophysiologist with most of his time spent at Porter Regional Hospital and other facilities within the Northwest Health system. Were excited to finally establish long-term roots and start a family here, but for now we have our big dog until the family expands.I'm particulary excited to find a local choir and my husband plans to rejoin the Valpo Comumunity / University Concert Band on tuba when his braces come off.
I am excited to bring implants and advanced technology to the office over the next year. Even with contemporary dentistry and a modern approach, my goal is to always keep the small office feel that I remember growing up so that we get to know each of our patients, not just treat teeth. I will explain your dental options in an approachable way, so that you feel confident to make your own health decisions. Everyone on our team is committed to enthusiastically providing you and your family excellent dental health care in a professional and friendly manner. We even may crack a joke or two.
Im always amazed at how many patients have been with my Dad his whole career of 35+ years, and Im so excited to finally do the same with our community here in NWI. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly, and I look forward to helping you smile brightly.
We recognize that all our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stress-free, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of working with Dr. Grider over the years is being part of a team that establishes long-term, trusting relationships with patients. I received my associates degree in dental hygiene in May 1991. I have enjoyed my career as a hygienist, and respect that dentistry is a continuous part of overall health. I enjoy continuing to educate myself on new techniques, products, and research, and furthermore, sharing that information with our patients.
My husband Stan and I have two daughters, Trenee and Kendall. I enjoy spending my time away from the office relaxing at the beach and reading during the summer. During the cooler months, I enjoy bonfires in the backyard with my family and friends.
I have always been intrested in dentistry so being able to work here has been an amazing experience. I am currently enrolled in an online program to get my certificate in dental assisting to further my education.
Of course, we provide comprehensive diagnosis and excellent treatment, but our practice is so much more than that. We are here to create a place where patients trust us and know that were looking out for their best interest. Our Smile Brightly team encourages patients to tell their stories sotogetherwe can achieve their goals.
Our office is a warm and safe environment thats filled with people who genuinely care about our patients. We celebrate personal success and are energetic, knowledgeable, and confident in our clinical skills.
Reviews
Rating 4.9 out of 5 based on 106 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestBarbara Zborowski
a year ago
Other than the cost, very positive experience.
Miranda Shworles
a year ago
I have been going to the Grider family for years! Stephanie and staff are so welcoming and friendly.
S. Booker
a year ago
I met Dr. Grider when she still worked in St. Joseph and was sufficiently impressed that I decided to follow her when she started her own practice in Portage. Totally worth the extra hour of driving! My routine checkup and cleaning two weeks ago revealed a cracked molar and another small cavity; one week later she repaired the crack and filled the cavity. Excellent work, quick and efficient, and also completely painless. The hygienist was great too, thorough and knowledgeable. Very positive experience.
Grace Baldacci
a year ago
Dr. Stephanie Grider is detailed, thorough and professional. Not your chop shop dental practice that seems to be the norm, lately. SMILE BRIGHTLY should be EVERY family's dental needs choice, CONFIDENTLY!
Greg Lach
a year ago
Great service, courteous, and thorough!
Renee Szmajlo
2 years ago
Excellent Service and wonderful employees. Stephanie is an amazing dentist!
Zekuel_U
2 years ago
Had a same day appointment for a tooth extraction. They where great. Very kind a family oriented place of business.
Vince Mcculloch
2 years ago
Great staff
Joshua Wellwerts
2 years ago
Very Happy the staff is very friendly. Dr. Grider is absolutely fantastic. I highly recommend Smile Brightly for all your dental needs.
Emily Melton
2 years ago
Dr. Grider is great! Tells you every thing she's doing so you're never surprised.
Tammy Mccall
2 years ago
Dr. Grider was able to see me today after losing a filling late last week. Today's visit was just as wonderful as our prior interactions. I'm so happy I decided to stay with her when my former dentist retired!
Patricia Morris
2 years ago
Great job and painless. She fixed my crown that kept falling out.
Dora Becker (DB05)
2 years ago
Dr. Hannon, now Dr Grider and her staff are highly skilled and friendly. They have served our family, including three generations! I grew up afraid of dentists, until going to Dr. Grider, where they work with extra, gentle care.
Karissa Dombrowski
2 years ago
Dr. Steph and her staff are BEYOND amazing!! I have a huge fear of dental offices and each one of the ladies there made me feel so comfortable. I would 1000% tell anyone and everyone to come here!
Jim and Ruth Samuel
2 years ago
Everything was fine. Dr. Grider is easy to work with as are all the staff. Thanks for a great checkup!
johndoemilli
2 years ago
Excellent cleaning and care towards sensitivity of gum line.
Britny Villegas
2 years ago
My family and I enjoy coming here to have our teeth taken care of. They are always provide quality care.
Richard Neely
2 years ago
The service here was surprisingly nice, the atmosphere was very friendly and I was made to feel as comfortable as possible.
Jill Green
2 years ago
Dr. Grider takes her time to explain things as she goes which is helpful. Also makes sure you are comfortable and as tries to make it painless as possible. I getting a crown.
Lesley Shworles
2 years ago
Outstanding service. Dr Grider and her staff are knowledgeable and friendly. They make you feel truly welcome and like you are part of their family. Dr Grider goes out of her way to discuss your dental concerns. I highly recommend Smile Brightly for all your dental needs.
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