Dr. Meenakshi Balakrishnan, D.M.D., M.S.
OrthodonticsNPI: 1245445964
Practice Details
Languages
English, Hindi, Tamil
Patient Rating
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About This Provider
Dr. Meenakshi Balakrishnan is a board-certified orthodontist with 19 years of experience helping patients in Downers Grove achieve beautiful, healthy smiles. She graduated as valedictorian from the University of Pennsylvania Dental School and earned a Master's degree in Oral Sciences, bringing advanced training to treatments like clear aligners, advanced braces, and laser gum therapy. Dr. Balakrishnan welcomes patients of all ages and uses the latest technology, including digital impressions and a 3D printer right in her office to create personalized treatment plans. She speaks English, Hindi, and Tamil, and is passionate about giving back to her community as a yoga and meditation instructor. Dr. Balakrishnan is accepting new patients and looks forward to helping you achieve the smile you've always wanted.
Specialties
- 1
Education & Training
- Master's in Oral Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
- DDS, University of Pennsylvania Dental School (Valedictorian)
- Orthodontic Residency
Credential: D.M.D., M.S.
NPI registered: 05/14/2007
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Areas of Focus
Technology & Equipment
- Digital X-rays
- Digital impressions
- In-house 3D printer
- Advanced braces
Professional Memberships
- Omicron Kappa Upsilon (national dental honor society)
- American Association of Orthodontists
- Midwest Society of Orthodontists
Awards & Recognition
- Gold Medals for 1st rank in Orthodontics from Bangalore University
- Gold Medal for 1st rank in Restorative Dentistry and Endodontics from Bangalore University
- Gold Medal for 1st rank in Periodontology from Bangalore University
- Gold Medal for 1st rank in Prosthodontics from Bangalore University
- Master Carver of the Clinic and Research Day at University of Illinois at Chicago
- Merit Award for Periodontology in 2003 from University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine
- Keynote Speaker at 41st Indian Orthodontic Society Annual Conference (Chennai, India)
- Recognized by Excellence in Orthodontics (EIO) to represent Chicagoland
Beyond the Office
Teacher for the Art of Living Foundation (largest volunteer non-profit organization in the world)
Faculty positions held in multiple countries
Professional presentations to American Academy of Dental Research Annual Conference
Trilingual (English, Hindi, Tamil)
Hobbies include running, biking, cooking, reading, and yoga
Also a meditation and yoga instructor
Married for over 20 years to Dr. Balu Natarajan (Sports Medicine physician)
Husband won the National Spelling Bee in 1985 and is the only Chicagoan to win the title
Has two sons: Atman (competed in National Spelling Bee) and Advaith (aspiring speller)
Both she and her husband are proud Chicagoans
Author of 'Grin And Wear It: The In-Depth Guide to Your Child's Orthodontic Care'
Provider information is sourced from the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) maintained by CMS. Information may not reflect the most current data. Providers can claim their profile to update and verify their details.