Dr. Lerch began her professional education at Whitman College. She then moved on to dental school, attending the University of Washington School of Dentistry, where she graduated in 1982. Following dental school and college, Dr. Lerch obtained her accreditation with the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). She was the first female dentist in New England to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the fourth female dentist in the world to earn this accreditation. She has held this accreditation for 33 years. She has also been a board examiner for the AACD for over 20 years. As of 2025, Dr. Lerch is the President of the Connecticut State Dental Association as well. Dr. Lerch has also achieved the prestigious title of Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. She believes that these accreditations and affiliations have helped her become an even better doctor and smile designer.
