Meet Dr. D. Spencer Pope

Changing Lives, One Smile at a Time

As an orthodontist, I have the opportunity to meet amazing people and get to know each on a personal level during treatment. Each patient is unique, with their own experiences, passions, and stories. I never know what a person will share and always enjoy learning what’s important to them.

I am happy to have a practice where I have the time and freedom to create an individualized treatment plan for every patient. Each person’s care is tailored to address their clinical, aesthetic, and personal concerns, with an emphasis on improving their oral health and providing a smile that lasts a lifetime.

I’ve been in private practice for 20 years and have been teaching orthodontics for just as long. When I was young I was drawn to healthcare and when I found orthodontics I discovered the perfect fit: I work with my hands, using science, technology, and an eye for beautiful results, to help change lives. Seeing happy faces and beautiful smiles on a patient’s face, when they finish treatment and their new smile is revealed, is the most rewarding part of being an orthodontist!

About My Team

Every day I am proud and grateful to walk into my office and work with my wonderful team. They treat each patient like they are part of their own family and take a sincere interest in every patient’s life and wellbeing. It is not uncommon for our patients to be a bit sad when they finish treatment because they are afraid they won’t be visiting us anymore. Luckily, we’re able to remind them that they’ll need to come in for retainer checks!

I can honestly say that if I needed orthodontic treatment, I cannot think of a better group of people to take care of me than my team at Orthodontic Associates.

Education and Continuing Education

Bachelor of Science, University of Illinois
Master of Science, Northwestern University Dental School
Doctorate of Dental Surgery, Northwestern University Dental School
Orthodontic Certificate, Northwestern University Dental School

Staying current with the latest techniques and advancements in orthodontics is extremely important. Just as important is having the knowledge and scientific background to thoroughly evaluate these advances. I must ensure that new technologies and approaches will truly benefit my patients and provide them with their strongest, best smiles.

I complete 50-60 hours of continuing education every year through professional organizations, and lectures, seminars, and conferences. I have completed the McLaughlin Program, a two-year post-graduate orthodontic course. The Program is taught by Dr. Rick McLaughlin, a world-renowned orthodontist and the inventor of the bracket system I use at Orthodontic Associates.

Additionally, teaching orthodontics is something I really enjoy and feel is extremely important. My first “real job” was as an assistant professor and clinic director in Northwestern University’s Orthodontic Clinic. Since 2000 I have taught orthodontics in Marquette University’s Orthodontic Department, where I am an Associate Professor.

Professional Memberships

BOARD CERTIFIED ORTHODONTIST
LICENSED SPECIALIST IN ORTHODONTICS
College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics
Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists
Fellow, American College of Dentists
Fellow, International College of Dentists
Fellow, Academy of Dentistry International
Fellow, Pierre Fauchard Academy
American Association of Orthodontists
AAO Society of Orthodontic Educators
Midwestern Society of Orthodontists
Illinois Society of Orthodontists
American Dental Association
Illinois State Dental Society
Chicago Dental Society

Beyond the Practice

I live in New Lenox with my wife, Lydia, who’s a dental hygienist. We have two sons, Ethan and Ian, and a Goldendoodle, Ridley. When not at work, I’m usually found with my family. I try to stay active and healthy, whether that’s biking, running, skiing, or camping with my boys.

Growing up I was lucky to have great role models in school, sports, church, and Boy Scouts. Now I volunteer in these organizations as a way of helping kids have the same wonderful experiences I had. I also volunteer, professionally, at Illinois Missions of Mercy and work in the Chicago Dental Society Foundation’s dental clinic, which provides free dental care to the less fortunate in our community.