Home / Meet The Doctors
Dr. Palak Patel
Dr. Palak Patel grew up in Mumbai, India, where she graduated with high honors earning her Bachelor of Dental Surgery. After relocating to the United States in 2016, she continued her dental education at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, receiving her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in 2020.
Dr. Palak is an active member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society, and the American Association of Women’s Dentistry. Guided by her strong commitment to community service and lifelong learning, she has provided care for the elderly and underserved populations through several mobile dental clinics and served as a teaching assistant for Preclinical Endodontics at UIC College of Dentistry.
Dr. Palak is deeply committed to providing exceptional, comprehensive dental care while staying current with the latest clinical advancements. She has a strong passion for endodontics and routinely performs same-day root canal treatments, root canal retreatments, and advanced endodontic procedures. In addition, she offers comprehensive care including smile makeovers, periodontal therapy, surgical dentistry, implant dentistry, and full-mouth rehabilitation, ensuring complete functional and aesthetic solutions for her patients.
Dr. Palak is proud to practice at Aura Dental Care in Elgin, where she works alongside her younger brother, Dr. Dharik Patel, serving the Elgin community and surrounding areas with dedication, compassion, and excellence.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Palak enjoys spending time with her family and friends. In her free time, she loves traveling, exploring new places, and cooking. She is fluent in English, Hindi, and Gujarati, allowing her to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Dharik Patel
Dr. Dharik Patel earned his dental degree in India and completed his master’s degree and residency at the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in Restorative and Aesthetic Dentistry. With over a decade of experience in general, implant, and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Dharik brings a comprehensive, patient-centered approach to every aspect of care.
Dr. Dharik has advanced training in implant dentistry, with a special focus on immediate implant placement and full-arch rehabilitation. He has placed and restored hundreds of dental implants, emphasizing immediate implants, All-on-X, and advanced surgical-restorative techniques that allow patients to receive functional, beautiful teeth in significantly reduced treatment time. He is currently pursuing board certification with the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) and the American Board of Oral Implantology (ABOI) and is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI).
He is an active member of the American Dental Association, Illinois State Dental Society, Chicago Dental Society, and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. Throughout his career, Dr. Dharik has remained deeply committed to continuing education, gaining extensive experience in procedures ranging from routine extractions to complex reconstructive surgeries.
Dr. Dharik believes exceptional dentistry begins with honesty, transparency, and trust. He takes pride in forming long-term relationships with his patients while providing modern, evidence-based care. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati, he is able to serve a diverse patient population with comfort and understanding.
Dr. Dharik feels truly blessed to call Elgin home and is proud to serve the Elgin community and surrounding areas, working alongside his sister, Dr. Palak. Outside the office, he enjoys playing and watching sports, working out, and spending time with family and friends.
Mackenzie - Dental Assistant
Mackenzie is a skilled Dental Assistant with over three years of experience. Known for her friendly, calm demeanor and attention to detail, she helps ensure every visit is smooth and stress-free for our patients.
She is currently working toward becoming a Dental Hygienist and is passionate about helping patients regain their confidence through improved oral health. Mackenzie finds it incredibly rewarding to be part of each patient’s journey toward a healthier, brighter smile.
Outside of the office, Mackenzie enjoys spending quality time with friends and family and staying active outdoors—especially hiking, camping, and swimming.
Nancy — Office Manager
Nancy has been working in the dental field since 2009, beginning her career as a dental assistant before advancing into the role of office manager. With over a decade of experience, she brings exceptional organizational skills, industry knowledge, and a warm, welcoming presence to Aura Dental Care in Elgin.
Nancy is deeply passionate about helping patients feel comfortable, confident, and informed throughout their dental journey. She takes pride in clearly explaining treatment options, answering questions, and ensuring each patient receives outstanding support from the moment they walk through the door.
Her dedication to both patient care and practice management helps create a positive, smooth-running environment for patients and staff alike.
Outside of the office, Nancy enjoys hiking, playing soccer, traveling, and making special memories with her 8-year-old daughter.
