If you or your child has ever worn braces, you know the transformation that follows the years of pain and sacrifice (say goodbye to gum and taffy). What began with overbites, gaps that could fit a pencil, or overlapping teeth making it hard to chew much less want to flash a smile, ends with a newly aligned bite and an ear to ear grin––the outward representation of the inner self confidence.
Orthodontic treatment is, after all, the ultimate form of conservative cosmetic dentistry—using your natural teeth to enhance your smile and express your personal style. Dr. Bob Skopek, owner of Clearcut Orthodontics, is redefining the future of orthodontics—one clear aligner at a time. Gone are the days of expanders, rubber bands, and broken wires; his practice is almost entirely dedicated to Invisalign treatment.
With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Skopek has become a nationally recognized leader in aligner-based care, committed to leveraging cutting edge technology to prescribe customized treatment plans and decrease your time needed in the office for routine appointments. He takes great pride in his tried-and-true techniques that not only straighten teeth, but add sparkle to one’s appearance. And more than that, he has also designed office spaces to be conducive to the new style of orthodontics.
His journey to becoming a leader in the field began in Antioch, Illinois, where he grew up before attending high school in northern Wisconsin. Dr. Skopek went on to earn his undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and completed both his DDS and MS at the University of Minnesota. He has practiced orthodontics in Illinois since 1995. The first in his blue-collar family to attend college, Dr. Skopek initially considered medical school due to his strength in science. But it was the artistic side of dentistry that drew him in. As he advanced in his studies, he discovered a deep passion for orthodontics—what he calls the perfect fusion of art and science.
Outside the office, Dr. Skopek leads a full life centered around family and meaningful connections. He and his wife of 30 years, Stephanie, have two adult daughters, and he considers time with them—and with close friends—his greatest priority. Whether attending a local fundraiser, enjoying a concert, cheering at a sporting event, golfing, hunting, or simply relaxing, he finds joy in good company. "The most precious commodity we have is time," he often says, and he’s committed to spending it well.
Dr. Skopek’s enthusiasm for providing customized treatment plans to his patients is palpiable. He will take you around his immaculate office space pointing out the state of the art equipment while explaining how patients rarely need to visit the office – reminiscing about the “old days” of monthly (or more) visits to have your wires changed, yanked, and tightened. What really stands out though, is his true love and dedication to his patients. He will speak of the special needs kids (and adults) who historically hated going to the dentist or orthodontist and would never have considered braces. But with the new techniques he provides, these patients have a whole new outlook to go with their brand new smiles.
The Clearcut Orthodontics expertise ensures that every aligner stage is precisely planned, monitored, and adjusted as needed. This level of specialized attention is designed for real life: more efficient, more personalized, and more comfortable.
That same passion for patient-centered care extends beyond his own practice. As a founding member of the Vanguard Orthodontic Group, he and a team of fellow pioneers have helped shift the orthodontic landscape by championing innovation, collaboration, and smarter systems that benefit both doctors and patients.
Vanguard Orthodontic Group is a doctor-owned, autonomous Orthodontic Service Organization (OSO) made up of top specialists who have chosen to subspecialize in clear aligner orthodontics using Invisalign. Formed by leaders from the 500-member Invisalign Pioneers study club, this group now accounts for over half of all Invisalign cases in North America annually. United by a shared commitment to expertise, mentorship, and patient-centered care, Vanguard is redefining what aligner-driven treatment can be—making it more accessible, affordable, and guided by trusted orthodontic professionals rather than corporate interests.
Step into Dr. Skopek’s office and you’ll immediately notice—this isn’t the typical orthodontic setup. The space is streamlined, bright, and meticulously clean, with a modern design that prioritizes both privacy and efficiency; model for all Vanguard Orthodontic Group offices. Instead of a large, open treatment bay with multiple patients lined up in chairs, you’ll find private treatment rooms and a calm, unhurried atmosphere. Everything is digital—from scans to treatment planning—and the hands-off approach means more precision, less discomfort, and fewer visits. With smart systems in place and carefully staggered appointments, the waiting room stays quiet—because most patients aren’t waiting at all.
It’s clear that Dr. Skopek and the Vanguard Orthodontic Group are redefining what orthodontic care can look like. With cutting-edge tools, streamlined spaces, and a patient-first mindset, they’re proving that straightening your smile doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your time—or your comfort.
Whether Dr. Skopek is mentoring a new orthodontist, creating a personalized smile plan, or spending time with his family, his goal remains the same—make the most of every moment and every connection. Because at the heart of it, is expert care, modernized and delivered with the kind of warmth and intention that makes a lasting impression
From reshaping business models to reimagining the office experience, Dr. Skopek is not just keeping up with the curve—he’s creating it. One smile at a time.
What really stands out is his true love and dedication to his patients.