Meet dr. gerlein
Eduardo Gerlein, DDS, MMSc
Dr. Gerlein has been in practice as an orthodontist for over 20 years, helping to create healthy, confident smiles in the Chevy Chase community. He is inspired by his patients to do his job better every day and continually learns new methods of treatment to improve the care he gives. Dr. Gerlein enjoys using his knowledge of science and engineering to make a positive difference in the lives of his patients.
Education
Dr. Gerlein’s career as an orthodontist was built on a foundation of quality education. He received his Certificate in Orthodontics and a Masters Degree in Medical Science from Harvard University. While there, he conducted research at Children’s Hospital in Boston.
Dr. Gerlein also earned a Certificate in Periodontics and Masters Degree in Oral Biology from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. His periodontal background allows him to provide more comprehensive treatment planning and better long-term care for his patients, setting his practice apart from others in the area.
Dr. Gerlein is a member of the American Dental Association, the American Association of Orthodontists, and has completed the multistage examination process to become a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.
Continuing Education
Although his formal education is complete, Dr. Gerlein always strives to know about the latest and most effective treatments today. As part of his continuing education, he participates in numerous study clubs and attends the annual American Association of Orthodontists meeting every year. He spends many hours studying the most effective, esthetic, and comfortable treatments because of the value it gives to his patients.
Professional Dedication
Dr. Gerlein finds that being an orthodontist is incredibly rewarding. Every day, he gets to see the results of his work, and he gets satisfaction both in the straight, healthy smiles he creates as well as the pride and happiness of his patients. This dedication is not lost on his community. Dr. Gerlein is consistently recognized by Bethesda Magazine and Washingtonian Magazine as Top Orthodontist in the Washington area.
Dr. Gerlein’s commitment to those in need in the community was rewarded in 2012 as he received the “Humanitarian of the Year” award from the District of Columbia Dental Society.
Family Life
Dr. Gerlein was born in Washington, DC, and now lives in Bethesda with his wife, Cristina, and their three children, Nicolas, Martin, and Sofia. In his spare time, Dr. Gerlein enjoys cooking, playing golf, peloton, and of course, spending time with his family. He is also active in his community, donating time doing pro-bono orthodontics at the Spanish Catholic Center.
Fun Facts
What’s your story? I was born in DC but was raised in Bogota, Colombia, so I feel I am very much a part of both cultures. I moved to the US to attend the University of Michigan Dental School and then a couple of years later I went to Harvard to become an orthodontist. My wife and I have three kids who are all at college... we miss them so! We have a golden retriever named Lucas and I love to spend my free time with my family and in the kitchen (see below!).
Favorite artist? Shakira and Joni Mitchel.
Favorite movie: I have to say two, Pulp Fiction and Best in Show.
Superhero power you’d like to have: Have the superpower to become invisible at will!
Do you have a hobby? I love to cook and I may not be too bad at it! I also enjoy hiking and playing golf.
Favorite team: Easy, the Nats!
What did you think you were going to be growing up? Sportscaster. I’ve always loved watching sports and so thought I would get front-row seats if I was a reporter!
If you didn’t live in DC where would you like to live?: Have you been to Austin? That place is amazing! Miami is also on my top list.
Why did you become an orthodontist: It’s such a privilege to be working on people’s smiles. Think about it, is there anything more rewarding than having someone smile more because you helped them? After all this time, more than 30 years, I would do it again if I had to choose. I love it!