We are proud to introduce our highly skilled and caring team at Palos Pediatric Dentistry. We value team members who have exceptional dental techniques as well as excellent communication and patient care capabilities. Each member of our team is hand selected from numerous candidates in order to provide your child with comprehensive dental care in a caring and compassionate manner.
We know the impression we make on little ones early in their dental treatment can last a lifetime. You can count on Dr. Richard Facko to provide a happy dental home for your child.
Come in and meet us in person at our Palos Heights pediatric dental office so that you can feel confident you are making a great decision for the health care of your child.
Richard Facko, DDS, MS
Pediatric Dentist
I grew up in the Southwest Suburbs of Chicago, and have called Palos Heights "home" since I was only two years old. After graduating Palos 128 and Marist High School, I attended Indiana University - Bloomington, where I studied biochemistry. The University of Illinois - Chicago is where I spent six years of my dental education, including four years of general dentistry and a two-year residency with both the dental school and UIC hospital. Today, I'm happy to have returned to my hometown to practice pediatric dentistry! I am both a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
I currently serve on the Board of Education at Palos 128. I also serve as Board President for GiGi's Playhouse - Tinley Park, whose mission is "To change the way the world views Down syndrome and to send a global message of acceptance for all". I have the privilege of coaching three of my kids' youth hockey teams. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, running with friends, and a good workout at the gym.
My wife, Cassie, and I have four children; Lexie, Rich, Marie and Annie. Annie, our youngest, has taught me a lot about what's really important in life. She was born with Down syndrome, and she is the glue that keeps my family close together.
Serving families in the same community where I grew up has a special meaning that not many people have the privilege of experiencing, and I'm grateful for the trust that our patient families put in me to care for their children. I look forward to seeing all of our patient families both in the office and around town!
Brittany Bauer, DMD, MS
Pediatric Dentist
I joined the team in the summer of 2022. I was born and raised in the West Suburbs of Chicago. I spent most of my childhood in St. Charles, IL until switching high schools between my sophomore and junior year and graduating from Wauconda High School in the Northwest suburbs.I received my Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago. I continued my education to specialize in pediatric dentistry at a two-year residency program in Indianapolis, IN where I served as Chief Resident at Riley Hospital for Children. Upon completion of my program, I received my certificate in Pediatric Dentistry and Masters of Science in Dentistry degree from Indiana University. My husband and I currently live in Chicago with our black cat, Baggy, who we love so much! As newlyweds, we are simply enjoying the peace and quiet before growing our family. When not in the office, I like to spend my time trying new restaurants, going on fishing trips with my family, and finding time to travel to scuba dive in new places. Palos Pediatric Dentistry is like a second home to me. I’m privileged to be a part of such a great team that works seamlessly together.
Dena
Finance
Dena joined our team in 2022. She was born and raised in Blue Island and is married to her husband Rich. She is a proud mother to a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and also a Pediatric Dentist who you might just see around the office! :) She has 7 grandchildren who she loves to spend time with doing fun activities, especially baking! Dena’s favorite thing to do when she is not working is to go to concerts with her husband and travel. Dena works hard every day to make sure the office runs efficiently and always has the answer to any problem that arises during the workday.
Tina
Insurance Coordinator
Tina joined our team in 2018 and has been our go to for everything insurance! She was born and raised in Chicago Ridge and attended Moraine Valley Community College. She is married to her husband Steve and they have three children; Jeremy, Abby and Olivia who keep them very busy! They also have many animals including a Golden Retriever named Violet, 2 cats named Lavender and Snuggles, 3 Guinea Pigs and 1 Hamster. When she is not working, she enjoys making memories with her kids and loving everything that life has to offer. Tina is our insurance master and always is there to help parents navigate the complicated world of insurance!
Lynda
Dental Hygienist
Lynda joined our team as a Dental Hygienist in 2021. She was born and raised in Michigan and went to Kalamazoo Valley Community College where she got her Associates Degree in Science. Lynda has been married for 20 years and has a step-son. Some of Lynda’s favorite things to do are: spending time with her husband, family and friends. She loves shopping and exercising with her girlfriends. Lynda does a fantastic job at making our patients feel comfortable, she is always laughing at herself and making others laugh as well. You can always find a smile on her face!
Precious
Dental Assistant
Precious joined our office in 2013 as our very first employee! Precious is an assistant to both Dr. Brittany and Dr. Facko. She mostly works in the operatory where she does an amazing job helping the kids get through dental procedures. She was born and raised on the Northside of Chicago and currently lives with her mother Marilyn and daughter Loella. She also has a dog named Ryno. Precious is a devoted fan to the Mega Boy Band BTS. You will often see her dancing through the office with a smile!
Janette
Dental Assistant
It has taken my daughter a few visits to get comfortable. She always has a hard time with doctor visits in general. But the staff and doc have been so patient with her. She had the best cleaning today and sat so nicely with Dr. Facko as he looked at her teeth. We are so lucky we found Dr. Facko's office!