Originally from Prospect Heights, Illinois, Dr. Karolina Balcarcel earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Marquette University School of Dentistry.

Dr. Balcarcel grew up in a multicultural and multilingual family, with roots in both Poland and Guatemala. Raised by two deaf parents, she is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and has a lifelong connection to the Deaf community. She also speaks Polish and Spanish, giving her the ability to connect and communicate with patients from a variety of backgrounds.

Her connection to the Deaf community has remained an important part of Dr. Balcarcel’s life. She spent many summers attending KODA Camp in Poynette, Wisconsin, a camp for children of Deaf adults, and later returned as a counselor. Those experiences helped shape her appreciation for communication, inclusion, and making sure people feel understood.

Dr. Balcarcel brings that same mindset to dentistry. She believes great care starts with communication and takes the time to make sure patients feel heard, respected, and involved in their care. She enjoys creating an environment where patients can feel comfortable being themselves and confident asking questions about their oral health.

Outside of dentistry, Dr. Balcarcel enjoys running, thrifting and antiquing, discovering new coffee shops and restaurants, traveling, and catching a good movie.