After graduating from the University of Maryland Dental School in 1969 with a D.D.S., I attended the Boston University of Graduate Dental School for a Masters, Certification in Pediatric Dentistry, a Preceptorship in General Anesthesia at Kennedy Hospital and PALS (Pediatric advanced life support) certification.

For the next 2 years (1971-1973), I served in the United States Air Force. I trained in Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, Preventive Dental Care and Speech Therapy at Robbins Air Force Base in Warner Robbins, Georgia. The positions were Chief of Pediatric Dentistry, Preventive Dentistry and Coordinator of the explorer program for high school students interested in Dentistry.

Returning to Baltimore in 1973, I joined a group practice of Pediatric Dentists and gave lectures to the American Dental Association Chicago and New York City constituent societies. In the state of Maryland, I have lectured in the following districts: Western Shore, Baltimore County, Harford-Cecil County, Tricounty in Washington and Aberdeen Base.

From 1974-1996 I taught at Kernan's Hospital, University of Maryland Dental School and the Residency Program at Sinai Hospital.

Honors received included the David I. Shapiro Memorial Award from Alpha Omega Fraternity,

International College of Dentists from the University of Maryland, and Distinguished Service Award from the Zeta Mu Chapter of Alpha Omega.

I have been a Board Member and Officer for Golden Prague Savings and Loan, American Academy of Group Practices and Dental Health Services. As a committee member, I was affiliated with Shaare Zedek Medical Center in Jerusalem, Israel, Chizuck Amuno Congregation and Development Corporation for Israel. Finally, I was a volunteer Dentist at the Whitlock Street Dental Clinic in Baltimore, Maryland.

My interest in dentistry started when I was in college. While going to the University of Maryland for orientation, I stopped at a friend's house who was taking me to college. At his house, while watching his brother do a filling on my friend, I decided I wanted to be a dentist. At college and Dental School, I worked as a lifeguard and pool manager at a country club., teaching children how to swim. Consequently, I decided to be a Pediatric Dentist. The unspoiled nature of children provides as much joy today as I have had over the past 37 years. I feel very blessed to treat these kids.

I am married to my wife Goldie for over 40 years. We have 2 children and two grandchildren. My hobbies are: walking, gardening, music and photography.

I received my general training and Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore. I then went on to pursue the specialty of orthodontics and completed an additional three-year residency at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School, where I received my Certificate in Orthodontics. I also received a Master of Science in Oral Biology at the Graduate School of the University of Maryland, Baltimore in conjunction with my certificate in Orthodontics. I am North-East Regional Board Certified and continue with active continuing education courses every year. Currently, my practice is limited to the specialty of Orthodontics.

I was honored at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School with three years of membership in the Gorgas Odontological Honorary Society and was elected to membership in the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honorary Dental Society upon graduation. I also received two awards, The Nathan David Gold Memorial Award and the Harry E. Kelsey Award for Professional Demeanor at my graduation ceremonies.

Currently, I am a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, Middle Atlantic

Society of Orthodontists and the Maryland State Society of Orthodontists. I also remain affiliated with the American Dental Association, Maryland State Dental Association, and the Harford-Cecil Dental Society.

I have wanted to be an orthodontist since the day my braces were taken off when I was 12 years old. Unlike other children who change their minds on occupations many times over, I pursued my dream with a sincere passion and upon graduation, began private practice, where I have remained ever since. Previously employed at a large multi-doctor orthodontic practice, I opted to join Berg Dental Group to run a more personalized “boutique” style practice where I spend ample time getting to know my patients on a more intimate basis than the larger orthodontic practices.

I met my husband, Dr. Gregory DiGiovanni, in Dental School. Dr. Gregory, a General Dentist, also practices at Berg Dental Group. In my down time, I enjoy going to the beach, downhill skiing, gardening and needlepoint. However, my happiest moments are those spent with my husband and my 3 sons and daughter.

I earned my D.D.S. Degree from the University of Maryland Dental School in 1995. I chose dentistry as my career when I discovered that I loved science, had a knack for providing health care to people in pain and distress, and had what I was told were “good hands”. Dentistry provides an ideal environment for all these things that I love to do and it feels great to be able to share this gift with my patients. After receiving further training in a hospital-based general practice residency in Cheverly, Maryland, I learned how to provide urgent care and gained skills in the operating room. It was during this period, when I found I had a certain knack for treating the orthodontic patients in the dental clinic of the hospital – I have been literally “hooked on braces” ever since. I was mesmerized by how this specialty of dentistry can not only enhance the smile, but actually improve facial esthetics and bring to the patient form and function. Three years later, I received a dual degree – a certification as an Orthodontic Specialist and a Master of Science degree in Oral Biology. I have been learning and practicing orthodontics exclusively since 1996.

I became an associate orthodontist for Berg Dental Group in 2004 and I have found a home in this practice. The Practice asks and demands

of all their doctors the best we have to offer in both skill and the latest technology. I am proud to count myself as a member of this family of doctors and affiliated staff. I stay current in the latest technology by frequently attending continuing education courses. These courses are sponsored by the following prestigious professional organizations to which I belong: Diplomate American Board of Orthodontics, American Association of Orthodontics, Mid-Atlantic Society of Orthodontics, American Dental Association, Pennsylvania Dental Association and American Cleft-Palate Craniofacial Association. I am also a clinical professor at the University of Maryland Dental School. The dental school forum also provides me additional access to the latest and best technology the science of dentistry has to offer. This technology, I gladly share with the staff and patients of the Berg Dental Group.

I have been married over 21 years and in my spare time, I enjoy riding horses, scuba diving, traveling, reading, tennis and gardening. I spend most of leisure time with my husband and our family dog, puttering around in our garden trying to create our own little paradise in our back yard.

My education and training include:

• Fellowship in General Cosmetic Surgery – July 1, 1998 – June 31, 1999, Seattle, WA
• Residency in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery – 1992-1998, Louisiana Sate University, New Orleans, LA
• Internship in General Surgery – 1995-1996, Louisiana State University Medical Center, New Orleans, LA
• Medical Degree – May 1992-1995, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA
• Internship in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery – 1991-1992, Louisiana State University Medical Center, New Orleans, LA
• Doctor of Medical Dentistry – 1987-1991, University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
• Certificate of Advanced Study: Head/Neck Anatomy – 1990-1991, University of Pittsburgh School of Dentisty, Pittsburgh, PA
• Externship in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery – 1990, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE
• Summer Internship in Head and Neck Surgery/Otolaryngology – 1989, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Eye and Eat Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
• B.S., Microbiology – 1982-1987, Pennsylvania State University, State College

My work experience includes:

• Dr. Joel Berg – Maxillofacial Surgery, Independent contractor in private practice, September 2003-current
• Dr. Richard Nessif – Maxillofacial Surgery, Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Independent contractor in private practice, August 2003-current
• The Center for Maxillofacial Surgery, Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery, Associate in private practice, August 1999-July 2003
• Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriffs Office – Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, 1994-1995
• General Staff Physician Services, 1995-1998, New Orleans, LA
• Private Offices in Dental and Oral Maxillofacial Surgery – Independent Contracts providing Intravenous Conscious Sedation, 1992-1993, Baton Rouge, LA
• Laboratory Technician – University of Pittsburgh School of Dentistry, Department of Biochemical Pittsburgh, PA
• Tutoring Head and Neck Anatomy – University of Pittsburgh School of Dentistry, Department of Gross Anatomy, 1989-1991
• Laboratory Technician – University of Pittsburgh Presbyterian Hospital, 1990-1991, Pittsburgh, PA

I retain licenses and certifications in the following:

• Virginia State Board Medical License - April 2004-current
• Basic Life Support certification - March 2004-current
• Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification - February 2004-current
• Louisiana State Board Medical License – issued July 1996-current
• Maryland State Board Medical License – issued August 199-current
• Maryland State Board General Anesthesia Permit – issued August 1999-current
• National Board of Dental Examiners Certification – June 1991, Pittsburgh, PA
• North East Regional Dental Board Certification – June 1991, Pittsburgh, PA
• Advanced CO2 Laser Surgery Techniques Certification – February 1997, New Orleans, LA
• AO/ASIF Maxillofacial Certification – April 1996, Mobile, AL
• Certification in Branemark Endosteal Implant System – February 1995, New Orleans, LA

I have attended numerous continuing education courses as well as having made presentations to various study groups and Universities. I have also co-authored several publications.

I'm currently residing in Norfolk, Virginia with my wife and daughter.

I received my general dental training and Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) at the Northwestern University Dental School in Chicago, Illinois. I then went on to pursue the specialty of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery with an additional four year residency at the New York University Medical Center in New York City. Our main training facility was Bellevue Hospital Center which is one of the oldest teaching hospitals in the country. It offered a very diverse experience which covered the full scope of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery from severe facial trauma to routine dental extractions. After completing my training I returned to Maryland to begin a private practice. I am North East Regional Board Certified and continue with active continuing education course every year.

Currently, my practice is limited to the specialty of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. My training has centered on helping patients re-establish proper dental function through bone grafting and dental implants. While I also enjoy most aspects of my specialty, the goals of restoring a great smile and allowing patients to eat without discomfort give me the most satisfaction.

My journey into the field of dentistry, and more importantly, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery,

started during my undergraduate years at the University of Maryland. While trying to blend my passions of art and science, the dental profession seemed like the perfect solution. It allowed me to challenge my mind with scientific knowledge while still giving me the opportunity to work with my hands and create art. During dental school, each student completes rotations in all the dental specialties. My Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery rotation was by far the most rewarding experience of my four years in dental school. The knowledge of the human body was more intense and the surgical aspect challenged my artistic ability. The surgical outcomes for the patients were also very profound. In some cases, as with congenital or traumatic facial deformation, the patient's outlook on life could be transformed.

During my Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery training I had the ability to participate in several missions to developing countries such as the Dominican Republic and Columbia. Whether it was repairing cleft lips and palates or completing routine extractions, the experience was invaluable.

When not practicing Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing golf and soccer, and traveling.

I graduated from Harvard School of Dental Medicine in 1978. I was elected Class President and also received the David Nesbitt Award for Excellence in Clinical Dentistry and the International College of Dentists Achievement Award. I spent four years in the United States Navy Dental Corps, stationed in San Diego, California and also Okinawa, Japan where we were attached to the 3rd Marine Division, 3rd FSSG. I attended the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, University of Maryland Dental School from 1982-1984 and received a Certificate in Periodontics. In 1988 I became a Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. Having been a full-time faculty member in the Department of Periodontics, I am currently a Clinical Associate Professor at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, teaching in the graduate and undergraduate clinics and lecturing. I hold membership in the Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society, the American Academy of Periodontology, the American Board of Periodontology and the Monumental Dental Study Club. I am also a Director of the Maryland Periodontal Review and Board Preparation course.

I pursue continuing education and have given scientific presentations locally, nationally and internationally, including: Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Vancouver, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Lodz and Rangoon.

Periodontics provides a great emphasis on the relation between the mouth and medicine. As we learn more about the science and practice of Dentistry today, there is no doubt that the state of health of the mouth can have a profound impact on our well-being.

I get no greater joy than helping our patients establish and maintain a healthy oral cavity that will create a foundation for long-lasting dental health, minimal treatment needs and support the overall systemic health of each and every person. I am rewarded knowing that the combined efforts of patient and doctor have resulted in so much more than just clean teeth and gums.

My hobbies include travel, gardening, my wife and our dog. Great influences in my life include Groucho Marx, Woody Allen, Bruce Springsteen and baseball.

My career in dentistry started as a pediatric dental assistant after I finished my undergraduate training at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire. I realized very quickly that through dentistry, I would be able to improve the quality of patient's lives and leave a lasting impression on them and their families and friends. I attended the University of Maryland Dental School in Baltimore, Maryland and graduated in 2006. I received the International College of Dentists Awards for demonstrated leadership as a dental student and future leadership potential. After graduating dental school, I completed a one-year residency in Advanced General Dentistry at the University of Maryland Dental School, where I served as Chief of Residents. At the completion of my residency, I was honored with the Harry W.F. Dressel, Jr. award for superior clinical proficiency in general dentistry and the concept of total patient care. I then started a three-year specialty training program at the University of Maryland Dental School where I served as the Chief of Residents in my third year, and graduated in 2010 with a certificate in Periodontics and a Master's Degree in Biomedical Sciences. I am currently continuing my education as a Fellow at the University of Maryland Dental School's Periodontal and Implant Prosthetic program. My ultimate goal is to be able to treat every patient, no matter how simple or complex their treatment needs may be, and to permanently and positively impact their smiles and their lives.

Throughout my formal dental school training, I have attended a number of continuing education courses to enrich the foundation I have established at the University of Maryland Dental School. The topics of these courses range from advanced esthetic restorations to complex bone regenerative and grafting procedures. Most recently, I completed an intensive three-month program in IV sedation, taught in Arizona and Oregon by renowned dental anesthesiologists

Dr. Stanley Malamed and Dr. Ken Reed. Through IV sedation, I hope to provide dental treatment in a comfortable environment to patients who may otherwise be too anxious to visit a dentist. Sedation dentistry is also a great way to accomplish many hours of dental treatment in each visit with complete relaxation. 

I presented at the Northeast Dental Implant Symposium in 2009, and am planning to present my Master's research at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Periodontology in Miami, Florida in 2011. I am also working towards publishing my research in order to enrich the professional lives of my colleagues. I am a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Academy of Periodontology. I am certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and am constantly looking for ways to improve myself as a health care practitioner. I believe that education is fundamental in providing optimal treatment and want to empower all of my patients with the knowledge they need to maintain the dental treatment that I deliver to them. The link between oral and systemic health is undeniable, and now more than ever it is of utmost importance to ensure oral health in order to prevent or minimize the possibility of other life-altering conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my wife and our two dogs, Lucy and Lola. We are avid runners, bikers, snowboarders and hikers and are always looking for new and fun ways to work up a sweat. I've lived in Baltimore my whole life and love the Orioles and especially the Ravens. On any given day, you might hear me quoting my favorite lines from the Star Wars movies - "Do or do not, there is no try." I look forward to meeting you soon at the Berg Dental Group.

I began my career in dentistry by earning a Doctor in Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) in 1998 from the Baltimore College of Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore. Upon graduation I also received a Certificate of Merit in recognition of excellence and promise in Oral Diagnosis. The following year I completed a one-year General Practice Residency program at the Samuel S. Stratton VA Medical Center in Albany, New York. Immediately after, I started private practice as an associate in a small practice in New York State. Soon after, I decided to pursue high-end traditional group practice with emphasis on excellence in state-of-the-art esthetic and functional dentistry. This brought me directly to Berg Dental Group,. Where the warm unpretentious atmosphere proved to be an excellent fit for my personality and comfort with private practice. Currently a partner at Berg Dental Group, I continue to enjoy seeing patients in a Group Practice Setting with all major dental specialties represented at this office.

I am North-East Regional Board Certified and continue with active continuing education courses every year. I am an active member of the American Dental Association, Maryland State

Dental Association and Harford-Cecil Dental Society. I am also a member of the Academy of Group Dental Practices. In addition, I volunteer at the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery, Dental School, University of Maryland, Baltimore as part of the Dean's Faculty, helping to give the dental students a private practitioner's perspective and skill in dentistry.

As a member of Berg Dental Group, I strive to present the best case scenario tailored to the needs of each individual patient using the latest technology, while remaining caring and committed to that individual. I feel that I embody a relaxed yet social atmosphere and work hard to make the dental experience something to enjoy rather than fear.

I met my wife, Dr. Tatum DiGiovanni, in Dental School. Dr. Tatum, an orthodontist, is also a practicing member of the Berg Dental Group. We have 3 sons and a daughter. When given the chance to relax and have fun, I enjoy salt-water fishing, hunting, mountain biking, downhill skiing and exercising at the gym. However, my favorite past time is spending time with my family, which is of the utmost importance to me.

I was awarded my D.D.S. Degree at the University of Maryland in 1988. During my time at the University of Maryland, I earned membership in the Gorges Odontological Honor Society.

Following my training at the University of Maryland, I completed a one-year general practice residency program at the Booth Memorial Medical Center in Flushing, New York. There I had the good fortune to train under some of the world's leading dental specialists in Prosthodontics, Periodontics, and Implant Dentistry.

I am an active member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Association of Dental Group Practices. In addition, I have been awarded the designation Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. This recognition is given to a small number of general dentists who have taken the initiative to participate in a maximal level of continuing education and training.

Dentistry has the ability to make a true, positive change in people's lives. One of the most satisfying things that I have ever seen is the look on the face of a patient who used to be afraid to smile and now wants to smile all day long.

When not practicing dentistry, my time is shared by my family, my congregation and my hobbies. Spending time with my wife, son and daughter is what I look forward to the most in my free time. My time spent volunteering and serving in the leadership of my synagogue is also extremely rewarding. Last, but not least, when there is any time left, I enjoy gardening, reading and travel.

I started working at Berg Dental Group almost immediately after graduating from the Georgetown University School of Dentistry in 1988. I specialize in T.L.C. I always treat my patients as I would want to be treated myself. I take the time necessary to make each of you feel special, comfortable and as relaxed as possible.

I am a member of the American Dental Association, the Maryland State Dental Association, the Maryland Association of Pediatric Dentists, American Academy of Dental Group Practices, the Flying Dentists Association and am also PALS (Pediatric advanced life support) certified. I am also on staff and have operating room privileges at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Upper Chesapeake Medical Center and Harford Memorial Hospital.

I love being a dentist. I would choose dentistry again if given the chance to do it over. I especially enjoy getting to know the people and hearing their stories. I feel like I'm treating a friend all the time. I especially enjoy creating great smiles either by fixing someone's teeth or just cleaning them up, or simply telling a joke and laughing with him/her.

My brother, sister and I grew up as Army brats and moved yearly with our parents until they retired at Aberdeen Proving Ground. I'm married to my bride Jennifer and we have 3 boys and a girl. I enjoy spending my free time with my family, traveling, flying, reading and most sports. I almost always have a new story about my kids and constantly update family photos in my office.

My love for dentistry began at an early age. As a child I was actually a patient at Berg Dental Group. My dentist (and Uncle), Dr. James Schall, became my mentor and inspired me to enter the field of dentistry.

After Graduating from Mount St. Mary's College, I attended Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington D.C. Here, I accepted an award for the student who demonstrated outstanding performance and proficiency in Operative Dentistry and Fixed Prosthodonics.

After graduating from Dental school, I was drawn back to the place where my love of dentistry began, Berg Dental Group. I have always admired the way Berg Dental puts their patients first and, as a patient, enjoyed the friendly, laid back atmosphere. As a dentist I believe in patient education and providing quality dental treatment.

I am a member of the American Dental Association, the Maryland Dental Association, and Harford-Cecil dental society. Currently, I reside in Baltimore city with my Husband. When I am not practicing dentistry, I enjoy being on the water. I love crabbing, swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, and jet skiing.