Welcome to the

NJDA Online Mentoring Program

Responding to the requests of the students at UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School, this student-driven, online mentoring program has been designed with the needs of both the student and practitioner in mind. Connecting with a mentor is a simple three-step process.
  1. Click on the practice type in which you desire a mentor
  2. Select a mentor from the bios available
  3. Contact your mentor
There are no guidelines to this program other than following the three steps above.  Contact a mentor as many times as you like, or contact more than one mentor; it’s up to you.  Our participating dentists are dedicated to being the best mentors they can be.
Member dentists wishing to participate in this program should contact Tricia DeCotiis at 800-831-NJDA.

SELECT A PRACTICE TYPE

General Dentists * Periodontists * Endodontists * Pedodontists *
Orthodontists * Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons * Prosthodontists

General Dentists

Jeffrey Rempell, DMD  (973) 779-2819  jeff@rempell.com

I am a 1972 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Dental School, and I maintain a multi-doctor, general practice in Clifton, NJ. I grew up in Queens, NY. Prior to opening my own practice, I was a dental officer in the US Army. I am a past president of the NJDA, Passaic County Dental Society and have served on the board of New Jersey’s Donated Dental Services.

In my free time, I enjoy visiting my first grandchild, Zachary, who lives in Pittsburg with my son and his wife.  I also have two daughters; one lives in Florida and the other attends Georgetown University.  I enjoy practicing dentistry and staying abreast of the latest developments that affect our profession. My wife, Gail, and I live in Montville, NJ.

Lorraine Kosztyu, DMD (609) 869-1050 ronkosztyu@aol.com

I grew up in the Trenton, NJ area and graduated from Douglass College, Rutgers University in 1990 with a BA in biology. I graduated from UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School in 1995 and was inducted into OKU Honor Society.  My residency was completed at Monmouth Medical Center, in Long Branch, NJ. Following residency, I worked for three years as an associate at a three-dentist office in Lawrenceville, NJ and then purchased an existing practice in Lawrenceville.  I have been here for more than six years.

Upon graduation, I became immediately active in organized dentistry and have just completed my term as president of the Mercer County Dental Society. My husband and I love to ski all around the world, go to the beach, and go to concerts and Philadelphia Flyers hockey games.

Gerald Cardinale, DDS  (201) 567-2324 sencardinale@njleg.org

I am proud to serve as a NJ State Senator and maintain a dental practice in Fort Lee, NJ.  I am a former mayor, Board of Education member and Planning Board member of Demarest, NJ in Bergen County.  I graduated from St. John’s University and served in the NJ Assembly from 1980 to 1982, and I am serving my seventh term in the Senate.

I have received numerous awards and commendations for humanitarian service. I served as a delegate to the 1984, 1988 and 1992 Republican National Conventions and was a candidate for governor in 1989. Memberships I hold include the Knights of Columbus, UNICO, Sons of Italy and the Elks Club. My wife, Carole, and I have five children and live in Demarest.

Jefferson Van Drew, DMD (609) 641-0016 asmvandrew@njleg.org

I have been practicing dentistry for more than 20 years, and I am also a member of the New Jersey General Assembly serving the 1st Legislative District, which encompasses Cape May County and parts of Atlantic and Cumberland Counties. My undergraduate degree was obtained at Rutgers University’s Cook College and my dental degree was earned at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s School of Dentistry. My residency was completed at the Lyons and East Orange campuses of the Veterans’ Administration New Jersey Healthcare System. I am chairman of the Atlantic-Cape May County Peer Review, and a former president of the Atlantic-Cape May County Dental Society.

In addition to these roles, I am a volunteer firefighter and lifetime member of the NJ Fireman’s Association. I am a former mayor and fire commissioner of Dennis Township and reside here with my wife, Ricarda.  We have two college-age children, Jeff and Danielle, and are parishioners of St. Josephs’ Roman Catholic Church in Sea Isle City.

Robert Shekitka, DMD   (973) 761-4910 rshekitka@aol.com

I operate two general practice offices, one in Freehold, NJ and one in Maplewood, NJ. I serve as secretary of the NJDA and chair of the New Jersey Section of the American College of Dentists. I am a past president of the Essex County Dental Society, Fauchard Dental Society of NJ and an adjunct professor at UMDNJ-School of Allied Health and an attending at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.

I wish you happiness and success in your career choices.  Please use us as a resource to satisfy your personal needs.

Stanley Markman, DDS (201) 461-1333 stano.markman@verizon.net

I am an avid disciple of the L.D. Pankey philosophy of dentistry, which, among other things, adopts the “Cross of Life” that has four elements: work, play, love and worship with happiness at the intersection.  The philosophy also calls for a dentist to do all he or she can to not extract a tooth, but to save it.  I have a general practice in Fort Lee, NJ where I engage in most aspects of dentistry including the surgical placement of dental implants. 

Jeffrey Mermelstein, DMD (973) 992-0003 jeffmerm@yahoo.com

I am a general dentist with an office in Livingston, NJ.  I enjoy traveling and recently took a trip to the Grand Canyon where I rafted on the Colorado River and hiked the base of the canyon.

Throughout my dental career I have completed a GPR, worked as an associate, sole practitioner, partner and employee dentist. I have also bought and sold dental practices. I seemingly have spanned the globe of dental possibilities in private practice. I would be happy to share my experiences and knowledge.

Michael Etter, DDS (856) 985-4646 mandmetter@comcast.net

My private practice is in Medford, NJ, where I also live with my family and am very involved in my community.  I am on the Board of Education in town and heavily involved in my children’s activities.  I have been involved in organized dentistry for more than 10 years. Involvement in my profession and community interaction with my patients has made the practice of dentistry especially rewarding.

Maria Ambrosio, DMD (973) 694-9080 MariaAmbrosio@aol.com

I am a 1986 graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University Dental School. I work with my husband, Wilson Maldanado, DMD, who went to school with me. We take continuing education seminars every year, courses like Pankey Institute, Las Vegas Institute, Peter Dawson, Conscious Sedation and many more. I love public speaking and am a member of Wayne Toastmasters. We have two boys, Danny and Luis, who play traveling soccer and I am a team manager for Luis's team. Wilson and I maintain a practice in Wayne, NJ.

Christopher G. Lota, DMD (201) 391-4466 http://www.chestnutridgedental.com/
I live in Franklin Lakes, NJ, with my wife, Nathalie A. Scarpa, DMD. We have two children, Morgan and Rachel. I enjoy skiing, golf and triathlons.

I graduated from Bergen Catholic H.S. in 1983, Gettysburg College in 1987, and earned my dental degree from UMDNJ New Jersey Dental School in 1991. I maintain a private practice in Woodcliff Lake, NJ. I practice general dentistry, but place a special emphasis on esthetic and implant-related restorations. I welcome the opportunity to help any young dentists.

Arthur J. Bilenker, DMD (908) 272-0787 teriart@verizon.net
When I started out as a dentist in 1990, only one dentist, Phillip Bushinger, DMD, would help me. Every other dentist tried to discourage me. I promised Dr. Bushinger that I would help others get started. I graduated from Rutgers College, with a bachelor's degree, in 1978, and in 1982 I graduated from Fairleigh Dickinson's dental school. I then entered the US Navy Dental Corps. I served in the Naval Reserve until 2002. I've taught at Union County College and NYU College of Dentistry. My practice opened in Cranford in 1990. I did it from scratch, without one single patient. I now lecture on insurance, opening a practice and technology. You can be a great success as a dentist. All it takes is desire and hard work. If you have these qualities, I can make you unstoppable.

Glen M. Goldstein, DMD (973) 366-7995 drgold@att.net
I am a graduate of Rutgers University, 1983, and UMDNJ-NJDS, 1987. I've been in practice for 15 years in Randolph. I am a graduate of the Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Study. My practice focuses on complete dentistry. My office is very high-tech with digital x-rays, intra-oral cameras and CEREC. Most surgery is performed in my office.

Some of my hobbies include scuba diving, karate and flying single-engine airplanes. My website is http://www.randolphdental.com.

Jay Sher, DDS, (973) 992-4770 jsherdds@jsherdds.com

My name is Jay Sher, DDS and I live and practice general dentistry in Livingston, NJ. I graduated from Columbia Dental School and completed a one-year general practice residency program followed by a one-year oral implantology fellowship at Brookdale Hospital. I have authored or co-authored dozens of articles in professional journals, co-authored a chapter in an implantology text and made dozens of presentations at local, state and national dental meetings. My practice comprises all facets of dentistry, but especially comprehensive prosthetics and cosmetic dentistry centered on the sound occlusal principles of Dr. Peter Dawson. Our modern office is high tech, complete with four lasers and the latest digital technology.

 

Berdj Feredjian, DDS (973) 575-5555
Dr. Feredjian attended the School of Dental and Oral Surgery at Columbia University and graduated in May of 1979 with a DDS degree in general dentistry with a concentration in pediatric dentistry. After graduation he entered the US Air Force for a duration of four years and became a dental officer, with a rank of captain. After leaving the Air Force, he held various positions at Columbia University including clinical instructor, Behavioral Sciences Faculty, and as a member of the Dental Admissions Committee.

Dr. Feredjian has worked in a private practice since 1984. His practice serves all aspects of general dentistry, including pediatrics. He is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the New York Rehabilitation Society.

Dr. Feredjian has also recently started a company named My Mentor. Its purpose is to help those starting out in practice or in need of consulting help for an existing practice. It's not the traditional practice management consulting company, but more custom tailored to the individual practice.

Lawrence S. Lizzack DMD (201) 797-7774 Lizzack5@aol.com

I received my dental degree from UMDNJ in 1972. I joined, and later became a partner in, a large practice with two offices; one in Fair Lawn and the other in Paterson. My ex-partner didn't like doing root canals, so I became the expert. I really enjoy endo now that I use an apex locator, rotary files, thermafil obturators, and Dexis digital x-rays.

In 1992 I split with him and opened my own practice in Fair Lawn. My wife, Judy, is my office manager. My eldest son Jason graduated UMDNJ in 2001 and works with me two days a week. He lives in Manhattan and practices there the rest of the time. My son #2 Darren works for Hanson Realty in Hackensack doing commercial real estate. My daughter is a grad of Douglas and is moving out west with her boyfriend. She is pursuing eye therapy and possibly becoming an eye doctor.

I am presently the vice president of UMDNJ Dental Alumni Association. This August I received my fellow of the academy of general dentistry in Denver, Co.
I enjoy fishing; saltwater and freshwater.

In the office I enjoy rct, restoring implants, and most phases of general dentistry. I really enjoy sharing what I learn with my son. My son made an interesting comment last week. He said our biggest handicap is our honesty. I do like to make a living at what I do, but I am always up front with patients; give them all the choices and try to perform to the best of my ability all the time. I hope I can help some of the future dentists with the tremendous amount of decisions they will be required to make; it is not always easy to make the right ones.

 

Dr. Teresa DeStefano, DMD (908) 722-8256 traziano@patmedia.net

I grew up in Bridgewater. Having decided to be a dentist when I was 10-years old, I set out to work summers at my local orthodontist's office in Somerville. This was a great start and only confirmed my interests in dentistry! I graduated from St. Joseph's University in 1981, and completed my DMD program at the University of Pennsylvania in 1985. While at UPenn, I met my husband, and after working a bit in other offices, we bought a general practice and have been there since 1990. I have two great kids, a girl who is a high school freshman, and a 5th grade boy. Dentistry has been an excellent career so far! I sit on the local branch of the state Peer Review Committee. I have been involved in the Seattle Study Club in our area for over ten years. Our office participates in community services, such as "Give Kids a Smile Day", and other outreach events during February. I am also a member of the AGD. Feel free to contact me to discuss any aspect of dentistry--we have also mentored a high school student in our office, who will start dental school next fall! I'm happy to help and encourage any future colleague!

 

Sidney Chonowski DMD (973) 538-1100 sidchow@aol.com

I am a solo general dentist practicing in Morristown, NJ since 1979. I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 1978. I grew up in Brooklyn, NY and I have a BE degree in chemical engineering from Pratt Institute.

Upon graduating from dental school, I completed a General Practice Residency at Maimonides Medical Center. I am on staff at Morristown Memorial Hospital and have been involved in some local dental study clubs as planning coordinator as well as president.

My wife, Jane and I live in Randolph, NJ and we have 2 girls, ages 22 and 26. In my spare time I enjoy tennis, golf and following college football and basketball (my daughters graduated from University of Michigan and Indiana University).

 

Alan Rauchberg, DMD (973) 633-5666 dmd@aol.com

I graduated in 1992 from Temple University Dental School. I completed a GPR program at MCP Hospital in Philadelphia. I currently have two general practice offices, one in Parsippany and one in Lincoln Park.

Continuing education is a big played a big part in my growth as a dentist. I am a an alumni of the Pankey Institute and a member of the American Academy of Dental Practice Administration. I am married and have three kids. I'm a big sports fan and enjoy playing soccer, tennis and golf.

As a younger dentist who has been through the experiences of working as an associate, a partner and an owner, I have plenty of good stories to share.

 

Barry J. Litwin, D.D.S., F.A.G.D. (973) 667-3515, DrLitwin@aol.com

I am a 1974 graduate of New York University College of Dentistry and maintain a private, fee for service general practice in Nutley, NJ. I spent a year at Baltimore City Hospital completing a general internship program prior to returning to New Jersey. I worked for three years in a private practice prior to coming to Nutley. My practice includes all phases of dentistry except orthodontia.

My hobbies include golf, motorcycling, and skiing with my daughters. My wife and I enjoy traveling.

 

Elizabeth Wenslauskas, DMD, (732) 449-3733

I am a female practicing dentist for 13 years. I got my DMD degree at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine. I recently purchased my own dental practice in November in Sea Girt NJ. I am on staff at Kimball Medical Center. I work for the hospital clinic 3 days a week and also work for board of health one day a week treating children from Ocean and Monmouth counties from school systems. I enjoy all aspects of dentistry. I am a general dentist.

 

Sharon M. Verdinelli, DMD, FAGD (856) 803-7104 drsharon@friendlysmiles.com

I grew up in South Jersey and now am a solo practitioner in my hometown of West Deptford. I attended the University of Pennsylvania for both my undergraduate and graduate studies, graduating from the School of Dental Medicine in 1990. I spent two years at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Philadelphia, one year in residency and one in geriatrics. As part of that program I taught at Penn part time.

In 1992, I opened my own practice. My practice was featured in Dental Economics in 1994 and continues to flourish. I am a member of the ADA, AGD, and I received my FAGD in 2005. I love dentistry and feel lucky to be part of the profession. I enjoy living and working in my hometown. I am very busy at home with my three children—my oldest daughter is a freshman at Penn State, my oldest son is a senior at West Deptford HS, and my youngest son is in second grade at St. Patrick’s School.

Harry Harcsztark, DDS, (201) 991-2111 drh2111@hotmail.com

1974 Graduate from NYU College of Dentistry after which I spent two years of active duty in the U.S. Navy. I spent much time in lectures and training at Bethesda Naval Hospital and received my AGD Fellowship in 1984. I have also completed the 300-hour Brookdale Maxi Implant Course by Dr. Norman Cranin. I have been mentored by top dentists in the NYC area through much of my early career and now it’s time to return the favor. I have been in my practice since 1977, my partner is a prosthodontist, and we have an oral surgeon and anesthesiologist, part-time, on staff. Our main focus is full mouth reconstruction with a focus on cosmetics since we have a lab on premises.

My outside interests include working in high-tech software/computer/wireless businesses and have recently helped develop customized dental teleconferencing software. In my spare time, I try to work out daily and still play ice hockey several days a week. In January 2006, I was chairman and organized the first Israel Ice Hockey Tournament in Israel, sponsored by the Israel Ice Hockey Federation that included teams from the USA, Canada, and two Israeli teams, over 75 players in all. To fill the rest of my time, my wife and I raised five kids, now grown, and several dogs and are now enjoying our granddaughter.


Arthur G. Williams, DDS, agwjaw2000@yahoo.com

I am a 1949 graduate of Temple University School of Dentistry. My practice spanned 30 years as a general dentist in Irvington and Mountainside.

During those 30 years, I became a member of the New Jersey State Dental Society and the American Academy of Dental Practice Administration, serving as president of the latter in 1981.

I had the opportunity of lecturing on practice management in many cities in the United States in addition to Australia and Europe. My program was titled, “Plan Your Practice and Practice Your Plan.”

My hobbies are fishing, skiing, golf, and coaching Little League Baseball, in addition to spending time with my 10 grandchildren.

Our winters are spent in Fort Myers, Florida, from September –May (239) 489-4289, and summers are spent in Lakewood, NJ (732) 262-2844.

 

August Pellegrini, DDS (201) 339.1742 augiedds@gmail.com

I am a general dentist in Bayonne, NJ, as well as, an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Dept. of Restorative Dentistry at the New Jersey Dental School. I served as president of the NJDA from 2005-2006 and continue to sit on the Board of Trustees. An advocate for guiding new dentists into organized dentistry, I invite anyone with questions about our profession to contact me and also welcome dental students to visit me in my office.


Matthew L. Sorkin, DDS, FAGD (732) 251-7766 msorkins@yahoo.com

I am pleased to offer my support to new members of the dental community. I graduated in 1982 from Columbia University, and did a general practice residency at Hackensack Medical Center. I am a fellow of the American Academy of General Dentistry.

Since 1983, I have been a practicing general dentist in Monroe Township. Our practice ranges from kids to seniors. We have a low-volume practice, preferring to concentrate on one patient at a time. We have state-of-the-art technology, including digital radiographs, laser treatment, one-visit Cerec Crowns and Onlay, and completely paperless computerized patient records.

I am honored to represent our profession through career day presentations at the local high school, and as a dentistry merit badge counselor for the Boy Scouts.

David J. Shuch, DDS (973) 579-7400 dshuch@embarqmail.com

I am a restorative dentist with 25 years experience, a 1983 graduate of NYU and a former faculty member there. My practice, The Center for Integrative Dentistry www.centerforintegrativedentistry.com, combines the best of conventional dental care, centering on the Pankey and Dawson system of comprehensive care and careful attention to occlusion, coupled with aspects of alternative and complementary medicine. Patients come from 13 states for this type of care. My practice is very patient-oriented and is particularly helpful for those who have complex dental problems, complex chronic health problems, or a combination of both. My work is intense and focused, but is low-stress and a very satisfying way of practicing. I have written two books: “Doctor, Be Well: Integrating the Spirit of Healing with Scientific Medicine” which has been endorsed by bestselling authors Larry Dossey, MD and Bernie Siegel, MD and is used as a text in the Program in Integrative Medicine at the Mayo Clinic. My second book, “The Charm Carver,” an allegory about inner growth and healing, has won critical praise and was a finalist in the Nautilus Book Awards for distinguished literary contributions to spirit growth. I would be happy to correspond via e-mail with any student who has a serious interest in bridging the gap between complementary and mainstream healthcare as applied to dentistry.

William Dennis, DMD (774) 840-0613; drwdennis@juno.com

I am a practicing general dentist with more than 25 years experience in a variety of clinical and academic settings. I received a B.S. in Biology from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1976 and a D.M.D. in 1980 from Fairleigh Dickinson’s School of Dentistry.

I currently am a non-owner associate at Kamy Dental in Manahawkin. From 2002 to 2007 I was a staff dentist at two non-profit dental health centers in New England, where I gained extensive experience with medically-compromised and disabled patients, emergency triage and working with underserved populations. From 1984 to 2002, I owned and operated solo dental practices in New Jersey and New England. Prior to that, after graduation from dental school, I had gained valuable experience as an associate at several dental practices in New Jersey.

For ten years I served as a part-time dental consultant for Local 472, Heavy and General Laborers Welfare Fund in Newark. In addition, I have held several academic positions, including clinical instructor of 4th year students for the Department of Restorative Dentistry and Biomaterials Sciences at Harvard University School of Dental Medicine; clinical instructor of 4th year students at Fairleigh Dickinson University; and clinical instructor of 3rd and 4th year students in the dental hygiene program of Cape Cod Community College.

I am a member of the ADA, the NJDA/Monmouth-Ocean and the American Dental Education Association. Professionally I would like to practice clinical dentistry for another 20 years, as well as teach. High quality and sound ethics are of supreme importance to me. I believe in being careful, honest and gentle in treating patients.

I am married with two sons, ages 11 and 16. I enjoy skiing, boating and coaching Little League.

I feel that I’ve ‘done it all’ throughout my years of practice and wish to impart some of my knowledge and experience to the next generation of New Jersey dentists.


Mita Shah, DDS     (732) 745-9898     http://www.somersetdentalpc.com

I live in North Brunswick, NJ with my husband. We have two children who graduated college and live in Philadelphia and New York City, respectively.

I came to America in 1981 to join my husband after acquiring my BDS degree in Ahmedabad, India. I received a license to practice dentistry in the state of New York in 1983 by joining the New York University IFTD program. After spending two years working in other professional establishments, I opened my first private practice in Brooklyn Heights, NY in 1985 and practiced there until 1998. I rejoined New York University and graduated in 1995 as a Doctor of Dental Surgery in order to gain a license to practice in my state of residence, New Jersey. I opened my current private practice in Somerset, N.J. in 2000. Dentistry has been a wonderful career of choice and has brought me great happiness!

Since opening my practice I have received two-phase orthodontic training through the Rondeau Seminar as well as training in cosmetic dentistry through continuing education.

In the office I enjoy creating veneers, crowns, and bridges as well as two-phase orthodontic treatments. I have greatly enjoyed developing my patient’s healthy, happy smiles.

I love what I do and I enjoy educating my patients. I have lectured at many organizations as well as volunteered at many health-camps and other outreach events to spread oral health awareness. These include many community events such as “Give Kids a Smile Day”. I am also involved in many study clubs and enjoy staying abreast of new procedures and technological innovations. Along with my continuing education, I am a fellow of the ADA, NJDA, AGD, IDA, and a member of the International Orthodontic Association. We have mentored high school as well as college students, 4 of which have gained admission into dental school! I am happy to help any prospective dentists as well as any patients with dental related inquiries.

Eric Abrams, DMD, D. ABDSM (609) 924-5111 ericabrams@comcast.net

Dr. Abrams earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and completed two years of advanced training in a general practice residency at North Shore University Health System on Long Island.   Dr. Abrams was most recently in private practice in East Meadow, New York. He has also served as acting chief of the Dental Department at Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehabilitation. Dr. Abrams is currently a clinical associate professor in the Department of Restorative Dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and is on staff at the North Shore University Health System. He is a member of the New Jersey Dental Society, American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, and a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine. Dr. Abrams’ interests and areas of expertise is in cosmetic dentistry and in the treatment of snoring and sleep apnea.
www.PrincetonParkDental.com

 

Periodontists

Maxine Feinberg, DDS (908) 276-9222 maxinedds@comcast.net

I received my BA from NYU and my DDS from NYU College of Dentistry. My residency was completed in anesthesiology at New York’s Mount Sinai Medical Center, and I completed my post-graduate training at NYU.  I am a fellow of both the American and International Colleges of Dentists, and in 2002, I became the first woman president of NJDA in its 133-year history.

I am also active in the American Academy of Periodontology, the New Jersey Society of Periodontists, the Northeastern Society of Periodontists and the Pierre Fauchard Society.

My philosophy is that we don’t allow insurance to drive the office; our patients’ needs drive our practice.  I live in Westfield, NJ with my husband, John, and our daughters, Haley and Rebecca. My practice is in Cranford, NJ.

Robert Hersh, DDS (732) 462-8181 thecenterfororalhealth@worldnet.att.net

I have maintained a practice in Freehold, NJ for more than 25 years.  My practice is limited to periodontics, oral medicine and dental implants. My special professional interests are occlusion and TMD therapy.

I received my bachelor’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU), my dental degree from Temple University School of Dentistry, and my post-doctorate degree from FDU School of Dental Medicine.

I am a past president of the New Jersey Society of Periodontists, the Monmouth-Ocean County Dental Society, and the American Academy of Oral Medicine-New Jersey Section. I live in Freehold with my wife, Marcia.  We have two grown children, Lauren and Andrew.

Anthony T Chin, DDS (908) 222-3337
I am a full-time practicing periodontist in Warren, NJ, and have limited my activities to periodontics since 1993. The therapies I provide are focused on periodontics, soft-tissue cosmetics, and dental implant reconstructive therapies.

I received my dental degree from NYU College of Dentistry in 1991. I did an OMS fellowship at NYU/Bellevue Hospital in 1992, and completed my periodontology training at UMDNJ in 1995. I was an attending faculty at Flushing Hospital in Queens, NY from 1995-1997. Currently, I am a faculty member in oral pathology at UMDNJ's dental hygiene program in Scotch Plains, NJ, and a visiting faculty member at Morristown Hospital's dental department. Finally, I was just installed as the president of the Central Dental Society.

Daniel Kubikian, DMD (267)258-8805 Dmddan@aol.com

I graduated from dental school in 2001 and completed a postgraduate program in periodontics and prosthetics in 2005 at UPENN. I limit my private practice to periodontics only, while teaching both periodontics and prosthetics.

I was raised in Long Island, NY, and currently practice in Cherry Hill and Northfield. My wife, Stacey, is a pediatric dentist practicing in Woodbury, NJ and Washington Township, NJ and we have a young daughter, Emma.

 

Mehdi Saber, D.D.S., M.S.D., F.I.C.D., F.A.C.D. (908-709-6777)drsaber@nyu.edu

I finished my undergraduate studies in Kent State University and received dental and specialty degrees from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. After completing my thesis and Master of Science in Dentistry, I started my solo practice limited to periodontics including implants in Cranford, New Jersey. I have been actively involved in New Jersey Dental Association, Union County Dental Society, and Northeastern Society of Periodontists and have served in various capacities including as the President of UCDS and delegate to NJDA and ADA. I am currently the President elect of Northeastern Society of Periodontists.

I am a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and an Associate Clinical Professor of Periodontics at NYU School of Dentistry, Department of Periodontics. Also, I am a proud Fellow of the American College of Dentists and the International College of Dentists where Fellowships are by invitation and based on demonstrated leadership and contributions to the dental profession and society. My philosophy in life is subscribing to Life Long Learning and I welcome any questions in my field of specialty from dental students. 

 

David Mangot, D.M.D. dmd462@mac.com

I am a UMDNJ alumnus of both the dental school (Class of 1987) and the periodontal program (1990). I maintain a private practice
limited to periodontics and implants in Clifton and am a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. I am married to a dentist and
have two daughters. We enjoy traveling and golfing.

It would be my pleasure to help mentor any students regarding advice with school and private practice. Please feel free to e-mail as much
as you like.


Endodontists

Carmine LoMonaco, DDS (973) 972-4278 lomonaco@umdnj.edu

I have been a member of the UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School faculty for more than 40 years. And, I have maintained a part-time private practice, in New Brunswick, in endodontics for over 20 years. I am a past president of NJDA and I am currently a consultant to the NJDA Council on Annual Session and the 4th District representative for the Council on ADA Sessions and International Programs.

I am a past president of the Pierre Fauchard Dental Society of New Jersey, a fellow of both the American and International Colleges of Dentistry, and a member of OKU National Honor Society. I received my bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University, my dental degree from Seton Hall College of Dentistry and my endodontics certificate from the New Jersey College of Dentistry.

My wife, Louise, and I have three grown children, Joseph, Catherine and Gary. Louise and I reside in West Caldwell, NJ.

 

Larry Law, DMD, (973) 492-5435 ezndo@attglobal.net

I was born and raised in NJ, graduated from Rutgers and then UMDNJ. After serving three years as a Lieutenant in the Navy Dental Corps, I returned to UMDNJ for post-graduate training in endodontics. For the past 12 years, I've been in private practice with my partner and our three endodontic offices in northern NJ. I am married to my wife Paula for 15 years and we have two daughters, Tara and Kelsey. My hobbies include auto mechanics, landscaping, and playing all sports, especially basketball and skiing. As a mentor, I have plenty of experiences to share, especially in practice management as well as military dentistry

Pedodontists

Sidney Whitman, DDS (609) 586-6603 hamdent1@aol.com

I am managing partner of Hamilton Dental Associates, and a pediatric dentist. My practice is a large multi-specialty practice in Hamilton Square, NJ.  I am also chairman of the Selection Committee at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, and the NJDA Medicaid Committee.  I have, for several years, treated developmentally disabled patients both in my office and in hospitals.

I am an avid sports fan, particularly baseball, and once was a professional baseball prospect.  I collect sports memorabilia, which can be seen throughout my office.

Cavan Brunsden, DMD (732) 679-2323 kidzdent1@aol.com

I am a former elementary school teacher and assistant principal, so my love of children has been a life-long experience. I completed my dental degree at UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School, where I was inducted in the OKU National Honor Society.  After a two-year pediatric dental residency at Montefiore Hospital in New York, I joined the community as a pediatric dentist in Old Bridge, NJ.

As NJ state chairman of children’s dental health, I am a strong advocate for children’s oral health care education throughout the state as well as right here in Old Bridge.  I am active in many state and national organizations and I am dedicated to creating positive dental health experiences for children.

I live in Colts Neck with my wife, Nancy, an orthodontist, and my two children Andrew and Jessica.

Orthodontists 

Nancy Villa, DMD (732) 679-2323 kidzdent1@aol.com

I have a practice, with my husband, in Old Bridge, NJ.  We live in Colts Neck, NJ.  I am president of the Middlesex County Dental Society (MCDS), and a graduate of UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School.  I completed my orthodontic residency at Montefiore Hospital in New York and Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1991.

In dental school I was active in the Pierre Fauchard Society and was president of the Xi Psi Phi Fraternity. I have active at the executive board level of the MCDS since 1995 when I joined the Council on Membership, later serving as chair from 1991-2001. I have held the MCDS positions of treasurer, vice president and president elect, and I have just completed a term as president.

In 2003, I was inducted into the International College of Dentists, and have been active in the MCDS for more almost 15 years.

Miriam Furlong, DMD (732) 942-8400 www.jacksonorthodontics.com
Dr. Miriam T. Furlong was raised in Jackson, NJ. She attended Georgian Court University from 1987 through 1990 with a biochemistry major and chemistry minor. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree. From 1991 through 1995, Dr. Furlong attended New Jersey Dental School at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) in Newark with an academic scholarship. She graduated with honors, and received her Doctorate of Dental Medicine (DMD). Dr. Furlong immediately continued her post-graduate education at Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, to specialize in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. She is trained and experienced in using the best orthodontic treatment techniques.

Dr. Furlong’s husband and high school sweetheart, Michael, have two children. In her spare time, she enjoys fine dining, dancing, shopping and home decorating.

Scott D. Gersch, DMD (908) 233-8668 DrG@GerschOrthodontics.com

I grew up in Westfield, NJ, received my Bachelor’s Degree with honors from the University of Michigan in 1999, and then attended UMDNJ and earned my DMD in 2003. I then continued my post-graduate studies at NYU where I completed my residency in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics in July 2005. After NYU, I joined my father practicing orthodontics in Westfield and Linden, NJ. It was then that I actively began to get involved in many local and charitable organizations throughout the tri-state area - particularly organized dentistry and the NJDA's New Dentist Committee.

Barry Raphael, DMD (973)778-4222 drbarry@alignmine.com

A graduate of Bucknell University (BA) and University of Pennsylvania (DMD), I practiced general dentistry for three years before returning to school to study orthodontics at Fairleigh Dickinson University. In 1983 I joined my Dad in practice for the first five years and built my “dream office” in Clifton in 2001. You can “tour” my office at www.alignmine.com. I love ortho and try to give my patients an excellent experience, as well as excellent treatment. I make an effort to keep up with the latest techniques (self-ligating brackets, lingual, Invisalign, digital records and treatment planning, 14 workstation network), but there are more coming down the pike: robotic wires, 3D imaging, etc. I have been a long-time supporter of organized dentistry and orthodontic. I am past President of my local dental society and editor of its newsletter. I am newly-elected to the American College of Dentists and have an interest in promoting ethics and professionalism in dentistry. My wife, who owns a preschool, and I are the parents of three teens. My hobbies are related to the performing arts, and golf.

 

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons

Richard D. Riva (973) 635-5800 rivabegley@att.net

I have two offices, one in Chester and one in Chatham and have been practicing oral surgery from more than 25 years. I am a fellow of the American and International Colleges of Dentistry, and a fellow and diplomate of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAMOS). I am a past president of the NJDA, and the New Jersey Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.

In addition to various other organizations, I am affiliated with Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals. My bachelor's degree was earned at Seton Hall University, where I played on the baseball team. I then served two years in the US Army. I received my dental degree from NYU College of Dentistry and completed my post-graduate training at UMDNJ-New Jersey Dental School. Currently, I am the national chair of government affairs for AAMOS and 4th District representative for ADA's Council on Government Affairs.

I live in Millburn with my wife, Sharon. We have four grown children. When I'm not in my office or spending time with my grandchildren, I enjoy a good round of golf and bike riding.

Prosthodontists

Cosmo V. De Steno, DMD, PhD (973) 972-4582 destencv@umdnj.edu
Currently, I serve as vice dean at UMDNJ New Jersey Dental School. I received my dental degree from the New Jersey College of Dentistry, my certificate in prosthodontics from the University of Alabama Dental School and my PhD from the University of Alabama Graduate Medical School. I began my academic career in 1969 in Alabama, but shortly thereafter moved to UMDNJ, and have been here for more than 20 years.

I am nationally known as an expert in prosthodontics, implantology and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. I have served as president of the American College of Prosthodontists, and the American College of Prosthodontists Education Foundation. I am a member of twelve dental organizations and feel it is imperative to get involved right from the beginning of your dental career.

Joel C. Gelbman, DDS (973) 533-6700 Implantpro@aol.com

I am a prosthodontist actively engaged in private practice. I am also an implantologist and actively involved in all aspects of implant dentistry including all surgical procedures and restoring the implant patient. I practice in Livingston and Roselle Park, New Jersey.

Since 1972, I have been on the faculty of UMDNJ/NJDS and was the director of the general practice residency at University Hospital for 15 years.

I am a diplomat of American Board of Oral Implantology and Implant Dentistry. I am also a charter member of American Academy of Laser Dentistry as well as a member of many other organizations.

I am proud to have served the NJ dental community as a past president of New Jersey Dental Association and a delegate to the American Dental Association.