Meet Dr. Michael Stern

From an early age, Michael Stern was drawn to dentistry. He felt a strong desire to help others, and was intrigued by the science, artistry, and precision of this innovative field. By high school graduation, he began the journey to become Dr. Stern, and has never stopped expanding his knowledge and skills.

Early training and experience

After graduating from Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology, Dr. Stern continued studies there, earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. As a fun factoid, at Ohio State, Dr. Stern served as an officer for the Block O Cheering Section, helping to create display stunts for entertainment during the games and after touchdowns. He entered private practice, serving patients in Wickliffe and Lake County for a decade, before founding his Willoughby Hills practice.

Continuing education

For Dr. Stern, dental credentials are not “once and done.” Each year he participates in courses, seminars, and other forms of continuing education to stay at the forefront of the latest thinking, techniques, materials, and equipment in dentistry. While the learning itself is fascinating, Dr. Stern’s overarching motivation is to provide the most efficient and comfortable treatments for his patients, with the best possible outcomes.


Taking advantage of an uncommon opportunity, Dr. Stern studied with Dr. Bill Dorfman, famous for his role on the ABC series, Extreme Makeover. This experience helped Dr. Stern stay up to date with emerging trends in cosmetic dentistry, from Hollywood to Willoughby Hills.

Awards and recognition

Dr. Stern’s expertise has been recognized, throughout his career, with many awards and honors. The following are just a few examples acknowledging his dedication to learning for the benefit of patient care:

• Academy of General Dentistry - Fellowship degree
• American Academy of Pain Management - Diplomate status
• International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics - Fellowship degree
• Marquis Who's Who in the World - listed in America, in the Midwest, and in Medicine and Healthcare

Memberships and associations

• Academy of Laser Dentistry
• American Dental Association
• Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry - former post-graduate adjunct lecturer
• Healthtap - served on a local and national level with this leading interactive health network
• North Coast Spring Dental Education Meeting - Board of Trustees
• Northeastern Ohio Dental Society - Served as President and as Director of Public Education
• Ohio Dental Association

Celebrity smiles

Dr. Stern’s extensive training, natural artistry, and experience is well known in the Willoughby Hills area and beyond. His skills have enhanced the oral health and appearance of patients of all ages. You probably see the smiles of his patients in your own social circles, and on television. He has provided dental services for several anchors from Fox-8 News, and he formerly served as official dentist for the Cleveland Browns.

Family matters

With grown children in various corners of the world, Dr. Stern spends much of his limited spare time traveling. His son, Jeff lives in Berlin Germany. Daughter, Stephanie calls Minneapolis home, and son, Greg, lives in Denver. At home, Dr. Stern enjoys family visits, fine dining, gardening, music, and cars.

Dr. Stern finds great satisfaction in caring for the smiles of friends and neighbors throughout the Willoughby Hills, Mayfield, Mentor, Concord, and adjacent areas with a broad range of dental services - preventive, restorative and cosmetic.