Dr. Eric D. Starley: Board Certified Oral Surgeon in Falls Church, VA
Dr. Eric D. Starley is a board certified oral surgeon at Merrifield Oral Surgery, serving patients throughout Falls Church, VA and the surrounding Merrifield and Mantua area. He treats patients referred by their general dentist as well as those who contact our office directly, and Merrifield Oral Surgery welcomes new patients and accepts insurance to make that first step easier. Dr. Starley trained under Dr. Robert Marx, a well known name in oral and maxillofacial surgery, and brings that same thorough, patient-first approach to every consultation. Whether you need wisdom teeth removed or are exploring dental implants, Dr. Starley takes time to explain your options clearly and calmly.
Credentials and Board Certification
Dr. Starley is a board certified oral surgeon in Falls Church, VA, credentialed by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ABOMS). Earning this certification requires advanced surgical training beyond dental school and passing thorough exams covering the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery, from routine extractions to complex reconstructive care. Referring dentists and patients across Northern Virginia recognize this credential as a mark of consistent, well tested skill.
Education & Training
B.S., Physiology & Developmental Biology
Doctorate of Dental Medicine
OMS Residency, Chief Resident
Training and Surgical Background
As an oral maxillofacial surgeon practicing in Northern Virginia, Dr. Starley completed a demanding surgical residency before joining Merrifield Oral Surgery. His training covered the full range of procedures our practice provides, including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, and bone grafting, along with more complex facial and jaw surgery cases.
Mentorship Under Dr. Robert Marx
During his training, Dr. Starley studied under Dr. Robert Marx, a respected figure in oral and maxillofacial surgery known for his work in bone healing and reconstructive surgery. That mentorship shaped the careful, detail-focused approach Dr. Starley still brings to treatment planning and surgery today.
Patient-First Philosophy
Dr. Starley believes patients do best when they understand what to expect and feel at ease before, during, and after treatment. He takes time to walk through each step of a procedure in plain language, answer questions, and talk through sedation and recovery concerns. Patients often describe feeling comfortable and secure in his care, even for procedures they were nervous about going into. That same calm, reassuring approach continues after surgery, with our team following up to check on your recovery.
What to Expect When You Meet Dr. Starley
Your first appointment starts with a conversation. Dr. Starley reviews your dental and medical history, listens to your concerns, and, when needed, uses 3D imaging to plan your treatment with precision. He walks you through your options, including sedation choices, so nothing feels like a surprise. Dr. Starley works alongside Dr. Margaret K. Pham and Dr. Vincent F. Coviello. If you would like to see the office before your visit, take a look at our office tour, or learn more about our practice on the About Us page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dr. Starley board certified?
Yes. Dr. Starley is a board certified oral surgeon, credentialed by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. This certification reflects advanced surgical training and testing beyond dental school across the full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery.
What procedures does Dr. Starley specialize in?
Dr. Starley provides a full range of oral and maxillofacial surgery care, including wisdom teeth removal, dental implants, bone grafting, and tooth extractions. He treats patients referred by their general dentist as well as those who reach out to our Falls Church office directly.
Your Next Step Starts Here
Meet Dr. Starley in Falls Church
Ready to meet Dr. Starley and talk about your treatment options? Our Falls Church team is here to answer your questions and welcome you to our office.