Meet the Doctors.
At Forreston Dental we take immense pride in our team of highly skilled and compassionate dentists who are dedicated to providing top-notch dental care. Our dentists are passionate about helping patients achieve their best oral health and beautiful smiles. With years of experience and a commitment to staying ahead of the latest advancements in dentistry, our team ensures that every patient receives personalized and exceptional treatment. Get to know the smiling faces behind our practice, and rest assured that you are in expert hands when you choose Forreston Dental for your dental needs.
Dr. Scott Bares
D.D.S. & Owner
Dr. Bares received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry in 2006. Dr. Bares is a native of Freeport, Illinois and a graduate of Freeport High School.
Dr. Bares specializes in all aspects of General Dentistry, including restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Bares is certified in advanced CAD/CAM technology that enables patients to enjoy chairside restorations for all-ceramic crowns in a single visit. He also is trained in Invisalign® procedures as an option for straightening teeth.
Dr. Bares and his wife, Kelly, are sole owners of 10 dental offices, including Forreston Dental, 2 Freeport Dental offices, Lincolnway Dental, Peoria Dental, Oregon Dental, Rochelle Family Dental, Autumn Dental of Mokena, OMS of Northwest Illinois and Riverside Dental.
Dr. Kathryn Haraldson
D.D.S.
Dr. Haraldson received her B.S degree from Northern Illinois University and her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of Illinois College of Dentistry in Chicago. Dr. Haraldson has served in private practice since 1997 in the Joliet, IL area. She is an active member of the International Association for Orthodontics.
Dr. Haraldson specializes in all aspects of restorative and cosmetic general dentistry with an emphasis on pediatric and orthodontic care. She also educates patients on the importance of airway and functional therapy as well as maintaining oral health to sustain a healthy body.
Dr. Arpit Patel
D.D.S.
Dr. Arpit K. Patel earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 2012 and went on to complete a rigorous three-year Prosthodontics residency at Rutgers University from 2021 to 2024. Prior to his specialization, he spent five years practicing as a general dentist, gaining a broad foundation in comprehensive dental care. This experience continues to inform his patient-centered approach and strong clinical judgment.
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As a prosthodontist, Dr. Patel focuses on restoring both function and aesthetics. His areas of expertise include crowns, veneers, bridges, dentures, dental implants, and full mouth reconstruction. He also performs advanced procedures such as sinus lifts, block bone grafts, root canals, and Invisalign treatment. Whether addressing a single missing tooth or designing a full smile makeover, Dr. Patel brings precision, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to quality care.
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Dr. Patel is passionate about helping patients regain confidence in their smiles and improving their overall oral health. He believes in treating every patient like family—offering compassionate care, clear communication, and individualized treatment plans tailored to each person's needs and goals.
He is an active member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the American College of Prosthodontics (ACP), and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID), staying up to date with the latest techniques and advancements in modern dentistry.
Dr. Essam Ibrahim
D.D.S.
Photo and Bio coming soon...