Choices in Dentistry

Going to the dentist is a pleasure at Dr. Gilleran’s office. They are warm and friendly when you first walk in, they are ON TIME, which is huge if you are on a tight timetable, the dental hygenist offers you a paraffin hand wax (heaven!) and head phones with a 5 page list of CD’s to listen to while they work. When you sit in the chair, the ceiling is covered with funny magnets and mobiles, so you are laughing before they even get started. It’s more like a day at the spa! Dr. Gilleran educates you about your dental health and options for treatment in a clear and simple way. If you have to have a filling, She is gentle prepping you and you feel no pain. I am always amazed because I used have so much fear of going to the dentist. You will wish all your doctors were this great!

I’ve never written a Unilocal review before. I’m generally too lazy but seeing that Dr. Gilleran and Dr. Van Fossen both get stellar reviews on this site, I had to give some love to Dr. Rosen! (I’m sure Gilleran and Van Fossen are great but I’ve never met them.)
I’ll start with the complimentary paraffin hand wrap. It was very pleasant. Next, I had my teeth cleanedwas actually kinda fun (I know that sounds like BS but the hygienist, Jean, makes the experience of getting plaque scraped from your teeth has painless and entertaining as possible). Then I saw Dr. Rosen who was nice as could be and patient in explaining all the procedures I’d need done. Up until this point, I’d call this excellent service but things are about to get truly exceptional. I have bone loss and need some major periodontics work done. Dr. Rosen referred me to a specialist. The office sent all my information over, gave me the number to set up my appointment, etc. When I called the specialist’s office, they informed me right away that they did not accept insurance. They weren’t rude nor were they helpful, just matter of fact. I did some calculations and then found another periodontics specialist that did take my insurance and emailed Choices in Dentistry just to ask for my information to be sent to the new specialist I found who did take my insurance.
The next day, Jean called me. She apologized that the specialist they referred me to didn’t take insurance but she was really upset that they didn’t make any effort to try and work anything out with me. Without getting into boring details, I will just stay Jean and Dr. Rosen mapped out a plan for me that utilizes my insurance and I’ve scheduled more treatments with him. To be honest, I wasn’t miffed at the specialist they referred me to. I live in a major city. People need their teeth fixed and there are probably many businesses that do just fine without taking insurance. The person I talked to wasn’t mean or nice but it was definitely business as usual whereas Choices in Dentistry went above and beyond.
The following day, I got another call. This time from Dr. Rosen just inquiring if I had any more questions. And the icing on the cake is that they mailed me my goodie bag. Upon your first visit, you get a bag full of teeth goodies that I forgot there. Last week, the goodies were mailed to me, as was a nice personal letter from Dr. Rosen.
I’ve had the most interaction with Jean and Dr. Rosen but everyone I’ve spoken with has been professional and lovely. I mean, the only other Unilocal business I’ve seen with 5 star reviews is Hot Doug’s and they are closed now so you might as well get our teeth cleaned. Pay some penance for those duck fat fries!

First things first, I don’t like the dentist. As a category, I would give dentistry zero stars, but Van Fossen makes it bearable and is very accommodating to my dental anxiety (apparently this is the correct name for hating the dentist).
During my exams and the cleaning, you get a paraffin wax treatment for your hands and a sick discman to listen to tunes– all in the name of keeping your mind off whatever is happening in your mouth.
Dr. Van Fossen has a great chair-​side manner and clearly explains the treatment plan. I highly recommend her if you are looking for a Loop dentist.

How is a filling like a day at the beach? Imagine yourself lying on your back, eyes closed, bright orange light filtering soothingly through your eyelids; soft sounds of speech, the drill getting a little louder as it contacts your teeth…
…what? Drill? This isn’t the beach!
Let’s keep comparing:
Any pain?
Beach: No
Dr. Gilleran’s office: No
Friendly people looking out for you?
Beach: Maybe
Dr. Gilleran’s office: Yes
Chance of getting E. Coli?
Beach: Yes (in Chicago)
Dr. Gileran’s office: No
Sand in your junk?
Beach: Definitely
Dr. Gileran’s office: Hell no!
So maybe getting a filling by way of Dr. Gilleran is better than a day at the beach?
Seriously, she and Jean the Astonishing Hygienist are amazing at what they do and look out for their patients’ best interests. They make the whole process as stress-​free and painless as possible and take the time to explain everything you want to know. Highly recommended!

Dr. Patricia Gilleran was referred to me by a business associate who had been a patient for years. He told me I wouldn’t find another dentist like her. He was so right. Great office staff, never have to wait, very professional and friendly. Dr. Gilleran even sent me a handwritten note after my first cleaning, welcoming me to Chicago and thanks for coming in. Definitely small town feel with all the high tech gadgets and calming amenities you could ask for! Thank you Dr. Gilleran.

Short Version of this Long Review:
Dr. Amy Van Fossen is a beyond fabulous dentist. I’d give her 10 stars if I could. She and the team treated me like family and were very sensitive to my dental fears. Their follow up was impeccable and attention to detail when creating my plan exceeded my expectations. Dr. Van Fossen was my 5^th opinion for a lot of work needed and the choice was an instant no brainer.
The Dentist:
She is someone who is truly passionate about her job and teeth. Unlike most dentists I’ve been to, Dr. Van Fossen looks to discover WHY you have cavities, etc. and talks through your diet, habits, etc. I have lost 10 lbs by cutting out things that were (to my surprise) horrible for my teeth and I feel empowered finally knowing WHY these things happened to me and not leaving with the usual dental advice of «bad genes» or «floss more». She is not afraid to be honest about what she feels you need now and what can be revisited in a year or two — which I think anyone can appreciate. She really goes the extra mile in everything and has detailed explanations for her opinions.
The Plan:
What truly impressed me is the level of customer service and quality of the dental work. My teeth look incredible and I was looped in every step of the way with a custom built plan which itemized every cost and grouped them into visits. Dr. Van Fossen even called me to talk through some of the planning while she did it. I loved how included I was because this was going be expensive (and a little scary) for me. I wanted to be sure I was getting a conservative, yet appropriate approach. Her Endodontist referrals for a root canal needed were equally wonderful (and pain free).
The Work:
Let me tell you — she gives great needle! I never felt an ounce of pain throughout my 5 or 6 visits — during or after. I am the world’s biggest wimp when it comes to needles/​doctors and even explored anesthesia to be put out for everything — SO not necessary. She works efficiently and before I knew it I was in and out each visit — she has really helped me go a long way with my dental fears.
The Rest:
The office is clean, in a beautiful building and in a great location (shopping Macy’s post visit — yes I think so!). Jim at the front desk is just a doll and and has fabulous follow up/​customer service skills. The Hygienist I primarily had, Erica — equally wonderful and helpful. I love that they will provide you with music to listen to and the rooms have magnets and non-​dentist related items to look at while you’re in the chair (not to mention the view!). They have a unique referral program I have benefited from that has left my friends equally raving about Choices in Dentistry.
Conclusion:
All and all, I saved a lot of money going with Choices in Dentistry (vs. other opinions I received that I felt were far too aggressive/​sloppy), had perfect follow up, received a beautiful plan that took a conservative and preventative approach that left me feeling beautiful, stress-​free and excited/​empowered about the future health of my teeth. I’m not sure I can ever go anywhere else again! Dr. Amy Van Fossen is a real find!

I am so glad that I wound up with Dr. Van Fossen. I have always hated going to the dentist, it’s awkward and uncomfortable for me, to say the least. This is a very upbeat and professional office. Couldn’t imagine having to go anywhere else.

Highly recommended. They are super friendly and do a great job. I trust them completely. Plus, free paraffin hand wax!

I have a confession.
Up until today, I haven’t had a teeth cleaning in about 5 years. This is how I feel about going to the dentist.
I kept putting it off and putting it off, and eventually I was just afraid to go in because I knew the news would be terrible.
Lucky for me, I am blessed with good genetics and I didn’t have 500 abcesses in my mouth. Also, lucky for me, my husband pointed me to the offices of Amy Van Fossen.
Very nice guy at the front desk. Complimentary paraffin hand wax during the teeth cleaning. Not bad, not bad at all.
I’m not going to lie, getting your teeth cleaned after 5 years of not going to the dentist hurts like a motherfucker. Lots of blood. BLOOOOOOD. I got what I deserved I suppose.
I did have 2 medium sized cavities, which I am going to get filled.
It’s kind of a relief to have this taken care of, and I’m glad I’ve found a permanent dentist in Chicago (that doesn’t completely terrify me).

Dr. Gilleran, Dr. Van Fossen & Jean are THE BEST ever! I started going to see them about 8 years ago on the recommendation of a co-​worker. Since then I’ve recommended them countless times. Not one person has been disappointed! They are very professional and personable and even make the «dentist» experience almost fun! They will happily answer any questions before, during or after any procedure. And your comfort is their most important concern! The option to listen to music is awesome and the newly added paraffin wax for your hands is just the perfect thing to relax!

Great dentists! Highly recommend.
I think about 10 years ago I started going to Dr. Gilleran’s office. My previous dentist, while excellent himself, I think went to the Sarah Palin school of dentistry. «Drill, baby, Drill.»
I admit that a combination of bad genes and poor dental hygiene were my own fault but it just got to a point where I wanted a change from him.
So on a recommendation from my sister I went to Dr. Gilleran.
What a difference! Yes, I have still needed to have cavities filled, and yes I’ve had a couple root canals and crowns done, but here’s what I like about this office.
I think they really tried to get me into better dental habits. And it wasn’t like they were talking down to me about — they just really explained how I could do a better job.
Big props here for their Dental Hygienist Jean. She’s awesome. Does a great job cleaning my teeth and compliments me when I’ve been doing a good job. Nice words go a long way with me.
The other dentist in the practice is Dr. Van Fossen. Also, excellent dentist and super nice.
Another thing I like about practice is that on those times I have had to do work I ask them to tell me how much it is going to cost me up front. My old dentist, as I said, was drill first ask questions later. I hated that. Now at least I know how much things will cost before I do them. They also discuss options with me when they are available.
They have modern equipment, a bright and sunny office. You can listen to music if you want during your appointment. It’s great.
I’ve not been to many dentists, but I can’t imagine getting better care anywhere else.
If you are looking for a dentist in downtown Chicago, this place may be a good fit for you.

I’ve been to quite a few dentists in my lifetime, and Dr. Van Fossen is the best. Great work, very knowledgable, great personality and amazing dental assistants & hygenists. I’ll never go to another dentist.

I have been seeing Dr. Gilleran since 1994. She considers dentistry a form of artistry. She and her partner Dr. VanFossen stay on top of all the latest technology. With all the cosmetic dentistry rage, they offer anything you might need or want, but allow you to ask the questions or seek advice. One noteworthy aspect of their treatment is that I always feel well cared for in their office. It is a happy and comfortable office environment with an attentive staff and I NEVER wait more than just a few minutes to be seen. Even if you don’t work downtown, they are easy to get to and just off the Red Line. Above every chair there are curious magnets on the light fixtures, mobiles hanging from the ceiling, and artwork created by the dentist herself. The dentists are both just really cool people. The kind you’d like to get to know better.

I learned about Dr. Gilleran from a co-​worker. Her office typically has lunch time appointments available, which is really great with my schedule. All of the staff including Dr. Gilleran are very personable and helpful. I love that they have headphone/​cd players if you want to pick out your own music to listen to while they do a cleaning. Now I’ve taken to bringing my iPod for my appointments. Dr. Gilleran fitted me for a crown and made a pretty icky situation fairly comfortable.