Dr. Merli earned his degree with honors in Medicine and Surgery at the University of Bologna in 1986, and in 1989, specialized with honors in Odontostomatology. He is an active member of the Italian Society of Periodontology, The Italian Academy of Prosthetic Dentistry, and of the European Association for Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Merli held the position of secretary of the Italian Society of Periodontology from 1995-1997, treasurer for from 1997-2001, vice-president from 2001-2003, and is presently incoming president for the 2008-2009. Author of several scientific articles, Dr. Merli lectures in national and international conferences and courses. Together with his brother Aldo and sister Monica, Dr. Merli runs a private practice founded by his father Mario, which is dedicated to treating complex cases from an interdisciplinary perspective.