Healthful Alternatives

Healthful Alternatives is a prominent holistic dental clinic located at 4801 W Peterson Ave #502, Chicago, IL 60646. Led by Dr. Marianne Schaefer, affectionately known as "the tooth fairy," the practice has been serving the Cook County communities since 1985. Their core philosophy revolves around holistic dentistry, which recognizes the profound connection between oral health and the body's overall well-being. The clinic distinguishes itself by offering comprehensive dental care with a strong emphasis on conservative and biocompatible treatments. This means they prioritize minimally invasive techniques and exclusively use materials that are safe and harmonious with the body, such as composite resins and porcelain for fillings and restorations, completely avoiding mercury amalgam. Healthful Alternatives provides a wide array of services, including: Preventive Dentistry: This includes routine dental cleanings and examinations, low-radiation digital X-rays, and extensive patient education to foster healthy oral hygiene habits. They also provide guidance on diet and lifestyle factors that impact oral health. Restorative Dentistry: They offer solutions for damaged or decayed teeth using biocompatible materials. Services include white composite fillings, porcelain crowns and bridges, porcelain inlays and onlays, and full and partial dentures. They also specialize in implant-supported restorations, collaborating with trusted oral surgeons and periodontists for implant placement. Cosmetic Dentistry: Healthful Alternatives provides cosmetic treatments designed to enhance smiles while maintaining natural aesthetics and overall health. These services include professional teeth whitening, dental bonding, and porcelain veneers. Non-Surgical Gum Disease Treatment: The clinic focuses on treating gum disease with approaches that support the body's natural healing abilities. Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal: For patients with existing mercury fillings, they offer safe removal protocols to replace them with healthier, mercury-free alternatives. Dr. Schaefer and her team are committed to creating a warm, compassionate, and fun environment for their patients. They believe in fostering a partnership with patients, encouraging open communication, and involving them fully in their treatment planning. The clinic also offers convenient services such as extended office hours, assistance with insurance forms, and financing options through CareCredit.