Dentist in New London, CT

Dr. Michael Merlini is pleased to bring his many years of experience providing gentle, personalized, and high-quality dental care to Thames River Dental Group.

Dr. Merlini holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Boston College and a Doctorate in Dental Surgery from New York University. Upon graduation, and as a son of a World War II veteran, Dr. Merlini was chosen to dedicate his skills to our veterans through a highly selective, inaugural Dental Residency at the Manchester New Hampshire Veterans Administration Hospital. While in New Hampshire, during his leisure time, he discovered his love of exploring the beauty and nature of its abundant forests.

Dr. Merlini led his general dental practice in Guilford, Connecticut for more than 35 years. During the pandemic, he transitioned his practice while continuing to serve as a consultant to the State of Connecticut’s Department of Public Health. He is Past President of the Shoreline Dental Society and is an avid participant in continuing education. He is particularly drawn towards the study of oral health as it relates to whole body wellness, as well as advances in cosmetic dentistry to enhance the lives of patients.

In his leisure time, Dr. Merlini enjoys spending time with his wife and two daughters, and trains with his daughters to run in multiple fundraising 5k races every year. His mother, who was a professional artist, taught him his first lessons in art at her knee that contributed to his skill, care and “eye” for finely detailed cosmetic work. Those same lessons and skills also show through his watercolor paintings of nature, still inspired by a walk through the forest at every chance, which continuously rejuvenates his wonder and appreciation for life all around and within us.