Meet Your Orthodontists

Meet Your Orthodontist – Dr. Paul DiFranco

Dr. Paul DiFranco is a certified orthodontic specialist and has been practicing orthodontics since 1985. He believes that his enthusiasm for excellence in orthodontic treatment, combined with his sincere regard for comfort and satisfaction, is something all patients should experience.

Education

Dr. DiFranco is a graduate of the prestigious Loyola University School of Dentistry, where he earned both his Doctorate of Dental Surgery as well as his Orthodontic Specialty Certificate. Committed to being a leader in his profession, Dr. DiFranco actively participates in the finest continuing education seminars in the country. This, combined with years of experience affords him the opportunity to provide patients with the latest knowledge, technology, and skills to better serve them with state-of-the-art orthodontics.

Professional Affiliations

• American Association of Orthodontics
• Chicago Dental Society
• Illinois Society of Orthodontists
• American Dental Association

Community & Family

Dr. DiFranco practices in Park Ridge, IL in the community in which he was raised. Having deep ties to this area, he feels privileged to be living in, raising a family, and practicing here. His practice has thrived due to his excellent reputation. His staff members, many of whom have been with him throughout his career, share his same commitment to excellence.

Community service is an important part of Dr. DiFranco’s life. He gives back to the community in part by supporting local schools through fundraising activities and educating grade school children through dental health field trips.

When not working, Dr. DiFranco enjoys golfing, fishing, church organizations, and anything that involves time with his wife, Linda, and two sons, Paul III and Michael.

Meet Your Orthodontist – Dr. Omar Souman

Known for his caring demeanor, exceptional talent, and unwavering compassion, Dr. Souman is dedicated to providing his patients with the highest quality of orthodontic care. With a commitment to excellence and over 12 years of experience as a dentist, Dr. Souman ensures a positive and comfortable orthodontic experience for every individual under his care.

Education

Dr. Souman earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and subsequently pursued his dental education at the prestigious University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, an Ivy League university widely recognized as one of the world’s top dental schools.

Following his dental degree and time in private practice as a general dentist, Dr. Souman dedicated himself to the specialized field of orthodontics. He completed his Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics residency along with a Master of Science at Loma Linda University. Currently, he is a licensed orthodontist in the State of Illinois and an American Board of Orthodontists Board Certified orthodontist.

Professional Affiliations

A strong advocate for continuous learning, Dr. Souman is an active member of professional organizations such as the American Dental Association, the Illinois State Dental Society, the Chicago Dental Society, and the American Association of Orthodontists. This commitment ensures that he stays abreast of the latest advancements in orthodontic practices, offering his patients cutting-edge and personalized treatment options.

Community & Family

Beyond his professional pursuits, Dr. Souman is a sports enthusiast that enjoys playing soccer, tennis, and participating in local races as an avid runner. His love for cultural exploration has taken him abroad to various places around the world, fostering a deep appreciation for diversity. In his leisure time, he enjoys exploring the city and creating cherished moments with his family.

Meet Your Orthodontist – Dr. Jessica Hedger

Dr. Jessica Hedger is a highly skilled and compassionate orthodontist who is deeply committed to delivering exceptional care while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for her patients. With a strong foundation in Orthodontics, she combines technical expertise with a personalized approach to ensure that each patient’s unique needs and goals are met. Her warm demeanor and genuine care for others make her a trusted partner throughout the orthodontic journey.

Education

Dr. Hedger began her academic journey at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology. She then attended the University of Illinois Chicago, completing her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. She also holds a Master of Oral Sciences and an Advanced Certificate in Orthodontics.

Professional Affiliations

• American Dental Association
• Chicago Dental Society
• American Association of Orthodontists
• Midwestern Society of Orthodontists

Community & Family

Outside the office, Dr. Hedger enjoys spending time with her family and her four beloved pets: Ozzy and Grizzly (dogs) and Abby and Ash (cats). She is an avid foodie who loves exploring new restaurants in Chicago and delights in discovering the beauty of the city.

Philosophy

“My philosophy in orthodontics and dentistry focuses on the patient experience. I am passionate about delivering personalized care that makes orthodontic treatment both informative and enjoyable. Utilizing the latest advancements in orthodontic technology, I specialize in Damon Ultima passive self-ligating braces and clear aligner therapy to achieve the best long-lasting results, ultimately enhancing my patients’ confidence.”