About Us
Meet Our Doctor
Dr. Carl Gerner
Get to Know Dr. Carl Gerner
Dr. Gerner has had an amazing 45+ year career in dentistry, and he loves the fact that he gets to work for himself as well as collaborate with the team at True North Dental Sleep Center who he respects and admires. He cherishes the relationships he has built over the years as your trusted sleep apnea dentist in Plattsburgh, he’s eager to welcome you into our dental family.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?
As Dr. Gerner was about to graduate from college, he decided to apply to dental school. His major was biology, and his dad had taught him to love working with his hands. Dr. Gerner didn’t think he would like to be in a hospital, so dentistry seemed like the natural choice, and he has never regretted it!
Where Did You Study Dentistry?
After attending the United States Coast Guard Academy for two years, Dr. Gerner spent a semester at the University of Kentucky, and he then finished at Lake Erie College. He eventually earned his dental degree from the Case Western Reserve School of Dentistry.
Dr. Gerner received a scholarship for dental school from the United States Air Force, and upon graduation, they sent him to Plattsburgh. He and an Air Force friend from dental school started a private practice in the Plattsburgh Mall called McDental. A few years later (after a lawsuit from McDonalds), they moved to our current location on Hammond Lane and changed the name to Plattsburgh Dental Group. In 2016, Dr. Gerner merged his practice with Dr. Craig Heins’s office (Heins Family Dentistry), and they changed our name to True North Dental Group.
Over the last five years, Dr. Gerner has become fascinated by the successful dental treatment of sleep apnea, so this is a major focus of his work and continuing education. He has pursued many hours of training and has become a Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Outside of the Dental Office, What Do You Like to Do?
The most important person in Dr. Gerner’s life is his life partner, Tracy, and their family also includes their furry son, Bullock, a Cavachon. He and Tracy do almost everything together. Outside of the office, they have started a cycling club, a house concert series, and have learned to build guitars. Their current obsessions include beekeeping, woodturning, skiing, and gardening. In the past, they even recorded an album together and have a music video featuring one of the tracks on YouTube, which you can find by searching “tomandtracyditm”—it only makes him slightly embarrassed!
Who We Are
We’re a dedicated team of dental professionals with advanced training in dental sleep medicine. Our expertise allows us to offer custom-fit oral appliances designed to treat sleep apnea and snoring, giving you a safe, comfortable alternative to traditional treatments like CPAP machines.
What Drives Us
Dr. Carl Gerner and our team is passionate about helping our patients enjoy healthier lives by addressing the root causes of their sleep challenges. We know that sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including fatigue, heart disease, and cognitive difficulties. That’s why we focus on personalized care that meets your unique needs, ensuring your treatment is effective and tailored to your lifestyle.
Our Commitment to You
At True North Dental Sleep Center, Dr. Carl Gerner and our team believe everyone deserves restful sleep and the vibrant health that comes with it. Whether you’re struggling with sleep apnea, chronic snoring, or related challenges, we’re here to guide you toward lasting relief.
Let us help you find your true north—where better sleep leads to better health and a better life.
Our Approach
Comprehensive Care:
From initial evaluations to ongoing follow-ups, we’re with you every step of the way.
Collaboration:
We work closely with sleep physicians and other medical experts to ensure a well-rounded treatment plan.
Compassion:
Your comfort and success are our priorities. We take the time to listen, educate, and create solutions that work for you.
Meet Our Team
The dental team you will find at True North Dental Group consists of professionals who go far beyond the basics to deliver top-notch patient care. We know the work of our dentists carries a lot of weight, but the customer service and compassion delivered by office and dental staff can make a significant difference. This is why you will not find another team like ours. Equipped with positive attitudes, smiling faces, and a passion for helping others, you can expect to feel welcome and appreciated each time you visit our office. Learn more about our Plattsburgh dental team so that you can become familiar with who will be by your side during your visit.
Tracy G, Office Manager
Tracy has three decades of dentistry experience, and she has been with our office since the very beginning. She is always eager to learn and grow so she can help our entire team deliver better service for our patients. Tracy studied at Herkimer Community College and is a member of the American Association of Dental Office Managers. She has a mastery certification in office management through the AADOM and is currently working on becoming a Diplomate through them.
Tracy has an adult daughter Emily, whom she is extremely proud of. Tracy shares her life with her partner Tom Gerner and their 9 year old Cavachon dog named Bullock. In her spare time she and Tom are in the wood shop crafting on their lathes. She loves gardening, beekeeping and skiing and anything that involves spending quality time with Tom and her family.
Kelly L, Dental Assistant
Kelly has been with our team since 2011, and she loves working with patients to uplift their dental health. We often count on her to do various repairs around the office as well! A native of Dannemora, NY, Kelly is the proud mother of two sons, and she enjoys reading and spending time with her boys.
Katelynn K, Dental Assistant
Katelynn lives in Ellenburg Depot with her loving fiancé and their three adorable dogs, Tess, Hazel, and Dolly. She’s all about creating beautiful smiles, and her future goal is to become a dental hygienist.
Katelynn’s favorite hobbies include building wood projects (she completed a building trades school), hiking, scrapbooking, gardening, watching football, and running beagles.
Ann W, Dental Assistant
Ann joined our practice in 2023 and grew up in Ellenburg, where she has lived for over 40 years. She has two grown children, three grandchildren, and a German Shepherd that she loves to spend time with. Before getting into dentistry, she was in nursing (including providing home care for the elderly) and EMS. She also has experience in cosmetology and does ear candling for people!
Ann enjoys reading and loves the summer. Her favorite pastimes include floating in the pool, gardening, and reading.
