Meet Dr. Ryan Lake
Changing Lives through Advanced Dentistry
As a dentist, I have the ability to make lasting, positive changes for others. Improving a person’s appearance, dentally, can be a life-changing event for them. Offering the latest techniques and treatment ensures painless care and lasting results that restore function and are beautiful. My patients deserve the best dental care, whether they’re here for an exam and cleaning, need relief from pain, or want to make their smile more attractive.
Dentistry is about caring for the whole person, not only teeth. Each patient has unique clinical and emotional goals and concerns. It’s essential my team and I understand what a patient needs from us, in order to ensure the best treatment experience and results. I spend a lot of time talking with each patient about what they want from care: the more I know, the better I can serve them.
I chose to become a dentist as I was drawn to the unique combination of technical skills, knowledge, and healthcare, along with a desire to improve lives. I’ve been practicing since 1995 and opened my practice in 1998. Since then, I’ve developed some wonderful friendships with patients. They are members of my extended family and I love hearing about their families and lives. I’ve practiced long enough to now be caring for the smiles of the children of some of my first patients!
My Team
My team members have a unique ability to make each patient feel comfortable and safe. They work to get to know a patient on a personal level, not just professionally. They are highly skilled, knowledgeable, and work together seamlessly. Each has worked in dentistry for many years and instinctively knows how to put a patient at ease.
My team is my single most valuable asset. I have never had to dismiss an employee or have a staff member leave the practice. In 18 years I’ve only brought on one team member and she’s been a fantastic addition to our practice family.
Education and Continuing Education
- Bachelor of Arts, Rutgers University
- Graduate School in Biochemistry, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
- Doctorate of Dental Medicine, New Jersey Dental School, Newark, NJ
- General and Hospital Dentistry Residency, Chief Resident, Monmouth Medical Center
I am constantly learning, staying abreast of the changing techniques and technology. This makes me a better clinician and allows me to provide the best care for my patients. Continuing education also allows me to offer treatment options that were not previously available.
Each year I complete many continuing education courses. I’m also a member of the Seattle Study Club and have studied at the Center of Excellence in Periodontics. I’m certified in Biomet (3i) Implants as well as Bicon Implants.
Personal Life
I grew up in Mountainside, NJ and have called Berkeley Heights home for about 20 years. My wife, Cathryn, and I have been married for more than 20 years. We have three children: Brendan is about to start at the University of Scranton and will be playing baseball there. Cory is in high school and has his 2nd degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Our daughter, Tara, is also in high school and loves playing softball and basketball.
Most nights you’ll find me at the ball field, watching my children’s games or cheering for the Yankees. I also love skiing, boating, fishing, and traveling. I enjoy working with my hands and am into home improvement projects: I’m always building something!
In the Community
I’ve volunteered to coach many youth sports over the years. I feel young people need a good role model as a coach. I teach each about the importance of fair play, sportsmanship, and integrity in addition to the nuts-and-bolts of playing the game.
Our middle son, Cory, is on his road to becoming an Eagle Scout, so we’re always supporting him and his community service activities.
I also volunteer time in local preschools, teaching kids about their dental health and how to keep their smiles clean and healthy. Additionally, I’ve volunteered in dental outreach programs for underprivileged youth. And when I was an undergraduate I helped organize the dental outreach program at the New Jersey Dental School.
