Dr. Elizabeth Spence loves practicing dentistry because she feels it is the perfect balance of science and art. Dr. Spence grew up in Texas and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nutrition. She completed her dental education at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine from which she earned her Doctorate of Dental Medicine.
Dr. Spence found nutrition to be a natural transition to dentistry because of the whole body connection between oral health and systemic health. She finds joy in helping patients meet their oral health goals whether they are general, restorative, or cosmetic. She strongly believes in educating patients about how their oral health affects their overall health and how signs of systemic health can be evident in their oral condition. She believes well-educated patients make the best decisions and, therefore, commits herself to spending time with each patient to ensure all treatment options are fully understood.
Dr. Spence is a member of the Chicago Dental Society, Illinois State Dental Society, and American Dental Society. She attends study clubs, seminars, and participates in hands on workshops every year through the Spear Institute to ensure she is always providing her patients with the highest quality care possible.
When not practicing dentistry Dr. Spence cherishes her time spent with her family. Dr. Spence and her husband, Adam, met in dental school and are the proud parents of three adorable children, Nora, Amelia, and William, and a very energetic but lovable Wheaton Terrier, Sammi. In her rare free time, Dr. Spence enjoys reading, yoga, and traveling.
I believe that quality care is the result of communication and teamwork between the patient and the dental care team. I love working with my patients to give them the healthy and happy smiles they deserve.
From an early age, Dr. Sheila George knew that she wanted to pursue a career in the healthcare field. Throughout her childhood in Texas, she volunteered at various community outreach programs. During college she volunteered at a local dental outreach program where she saw the immediate positive impact that it had on their patients. It was there she realized her love for helping people and the art of science blended well, which helped solidify her decision to pursue a career in dentistry. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with honors at University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. George moved to Illinois where she received her Doctorate of Dental Medicine from Midwestern University, College of Dental Medicine Illinois. During dental school she was an active member of Student Professionalism and Ethics Association and Delta Sigma Delta.
In the dynamic field of dentistry, Dr. George understands the importance of staying up to date with the latest technologies and advanced treatment techniques. She attends continuing education and training courses regularly and attends local dental meetings throughout the year. She is an active member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society and Chicago Dental Society.
Dr. George strongly believes that taking time to get to know her patients along with using a holistic and comprehensive approach is extremely important when treating her patients. She also emphasizes the value of patient education for all ages and truly believes that education is plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy smile.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 112 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestDiane Strugs
2 years ago
Absolutely positively an incredible dental experience!!! Everyone is so kind and explanatory it's amazing!! Thank you!!
Dave Anderson
2 years ago
Staff is very friendly. No waiting to get in at scheduled time. Dr. George is very efficient and good at explaining what she is doing.
Randall Edwards
2 years ago
UPDATE after 5 years as a client - everything from my original review stands, and I would like to commend the staff for their excellence in making billing/ payment easy. Also, they're fantastic with my kids. Thank you! Original review - Dr. Spence is extremely knowledgeable; the reception and billing staff work with you every step of the way; cleanings are gentle and quick. My entire family (kids included) go to Smile Downers Grove - and we have always all been very happy with all aspects of the experience. The office has taken great steps to ensure cleanliness and protocols during COVID-19, and I would highly recommend Dr. Spence!
Karen Halm
2 years ago
Very pleasant experience! I have had terrible luck with dentists and this was so different. Even though I got the bad news that I need to replace a crown, the doctor and assistant explained everything so well that I realized it was the best approach. The office is very clean and high-tech and the staff is friendly. I had the sense they are up to date on all of the latest procedures and options.
C Hays
2 years ago
Great experience. Not anyone's favorite thing to do, but Dr Spence and team do it all with precision, grace and professionalism. Best of all - no pain and a very friendly and cheerful attitude. Thank you Smile Downers Grove!
Keith Ryan
2 years ago
Everyone is super super nice there they make you feel very comfortable. If you have a fear of going to the dentist go here and i guarantee that fear will go away. Best place!!!
Kyle Asay
2 years ago
Great facility, incredibly friendly people across the board, and a great experience. My family will go here as long as we live in the area!
Joe Becht
2 years ago
This is the BEST dental care. The staff is professional. The office is welcoming and conveniently located. Dr. George is great as a professional and caring as an individual.
Vishal Malhotra
2 years ago
Love this place! Very professional, quick and informative.
Kassi L
2 years ago
I had been struggling to find a Dentist for so long and I am SO thankful to have found Smile Downers Grove. Dr. Sheila George was amazing. At my first visit she made me feel comfortable, safe, and respected and she walked me through everything so I would be more comfortable. Instead of just doing an exam and putting notes in my file, she explained everything that was going on with my teeth to me after she did the exam which I appreciated so much. My hygienist, Erica, was so great and also made me feel extremely comfortable. I tend to get slightly anxious at doctors offices in general but I have never been more comfortable at a dentist's office than at Smile Downers Grove, and every single person I came into contact with was incredibly nice (thank you Anika, Jennifer, and Marissa!) If you're looking for a dentist who will take good care of your teeth AND be incredibly kind, I cannot recommend them enough!
Jessica Walker
2 years ago
I can not express how much I love Smile Downers Grove. I have had nothing but I wonderful experiences with Dr. George and her team. Dr. George is kind, non-judgemental, and thoroughly explains any and all work that may need to be done. After several concerning prior dental experiences at other offices, I finally feel comfortable and almost look forward to dental appointments.
Gabrielle Meyer
2 years ago
I have been going to Smile (I see Dr. George) for about a couple of years now. I love the warm, friendly environment. Everyone is so personable and I feel well cared for. I think Dr. George is the best dentist I've ever had!
Britten Wolff
2 years ago
I had the best experience at Smile DG. New to the area, and received a promotion in the mail. Everyone was so caring and did excellent work. I highly recommend this dentist, especially anyone with children. They even let me watch Netflix while I was waiting for my cleaning:)
Vivian chavez
2 years ago
This was the most thorough dental analysis and consultation I've ever had in my life (I'm 50). Doctor Spencer has a great bedside manner. She answered all of my questions with patience and care. Together we have agreed to a care plan that will require multiple visits for the most comfort as well as best long term goals. I'm very pleased and would recommend Smile Downers Grove. The staff was also super friendly and accommodating.
Chuck Wiley
2 years ago
Friendly, clean and convenient.
Timothy Fagan
2 years ago
Very clean, welcoming atmosphere, very friendly staff. Great care provided.
Helen Winter
2 years ago
Modern office with friendly professional Dr.'s and staff. Exceptional patient care. I had a dental emergency and became a new patient after the experience. Highly recommend.
Jeff
2 years ago
Great experience. Very nice people and would highly recommend.
Janice Widner
2 years ago
Dr. Spence was professional, thorough and friendly. She spent time answering my questions. The hygienist Erica was super sweet and so nice to talk to. She made me feel at ease and did a very thorough cleaning. She also spent time advising me about preventative care. Staff at the front desk were helpful and friendly. The environment was very clean and fresh. A highly professional yet personal team of dental care providers.
Jo DeNight-Potts
2 years ago
Everyone on the staff at Smile Downers Grove are so caring, friendly and positive. They are great!
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