“I strive to create not just beautiful smiles but lasting positive impacts on
lives.”
– Dr. John McLaren
B.S.E., D.D.S., M.S. (Restorative Dentistry)
Dr. John McLaren (Dr. John) was raised in Ann Arbor and graduated from the University of Michigan, receiving a bachelor’s degree in Material Science Engineering (BSE), followed by a doctoral degree in Dental Surgery (DDS). Dr. McLaren finished second in his graduating class and was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon honorary society. Dr. McLaren then completed a three-year master’s degree specializing in restorative dentistry at the University of Michigan, a specialty degree that fewer than 1 percent of practicing dentists in the United States have obtained. During this time, Dr. McLaren taught pre-clinical dentistry, oral medicine and diagnosis and held the faculty position of Adjunct Clinical Assistant Professor of Dentistry at the University of Michigan. In 2017, Dr. John started teaching clinical dentistry again at the University of Michigan and has enjoyed re-connecting with many long-time faculty as well as being a part of the growth and learning for future dentists.
He has been an associate editor with The Dental Advisor publication and currently serves as a clinical consultant. His scientific background has helped him bridge the gap between research and clinical practice. Dr. McLaren has conducted research in reducing mercury vapor release from amalgam, strengthening of porcelain, color matching of composites and high-strength fiber-reinforced materials. Dr. McLaren has given numerous lectures and written published articles and book chapters, including in the publication “Esthetic Color Training in Dentistry.” He has had articles published in Dental Materials, Contemporary Esthetics and Restorative Practice, the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, and the Dental Advisor. He is a member of the American Dental Assocation, Michigan Dental Assocation, Omicron Kappa Upsilon (National Dental Honor Society), Phi Kappa Phi, Alpha Sigma Mu (International Honor Soceity for Materials Science and Engineering), and Saginaw Valley District Dental Society.
Dr. McLaren has an unwavering dedication to providing each patient the best quality dentistry, while providing a comfortable experience. It is extremely important for him to truly understand each patient’s health objectives and customize dental care to meet each patient’s needs. Dr. McLaren has volunteered in the Michigan Special Olympics Dental Program, Helping Hands Dental Clinic in Midland, Mission of Mercy at SVSU and worked in the heart of Detroit serving as a dentist in the Detroit Community Health Connection. Dr. McLaren enjoys reading, home improvement, golf and bowling.
