Meet The Doctors

Dr. Lawton’s experience in dentistry spans almost 20 years now, and he enjoys nothing more than forming trusting, meaningful connections with his patients built to last. To learn more about him, continue reading below: 

Why Did You Decide to Become a Dentist?

Dr. Lawton was born in Odessa, TX, and raised in a rural farming town in Tioga, North Dakota. As a young man, he delivered newspapers and managed paper routes, all while dreaming of owning his own business one day. He gradually discovered that he had a genuine passion for interacting and working directly with others and accomplishing tasks with his hands. He was initially introduced to dentistry through Boy Scouts while working on his merit badge. He discovered that this field combined these elements, allowing him to create his own small business. Looking back now, it was the right choice! 

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

  Dr. Lawton earned his Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology from Brigham Young University before pursuing his Doctor of Dental Surgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dental School. He graduated with Honors in Research and received multiple clinical and operative dentistry awards. He even studied in an exchange program in Japan and attended Meikai and Asahi Dental Schools!  Today, Dr. Lawton is still passionate about staying current with dentistry’s constant advancements and changes. He is an active member of the Spear Study Club, meeting every month with nearly 50 colleagues and specialists to study advancements in dentistry and complicated cases. Each year, he exceeds the required state continuing education requirements several times over. 

What is Your Life Like Outside of Dentistry?

Dr. Lawton has lived in Cypress for the last 27 years and counting. He and his wonderful and amazing wife, Rosie, have been married for two decades, and they have three exceptional and talented teenage daughters. When he isn’t busy at work, they love to do activities together as a family, such as kayaking, camping in State and National Parks, and volunteering at the church and in the neighborhood. He is passionate about serving others however he can, from engaging in community work for cleanup and recovery after Hurricane Harvey to working as an official at local swim meets.  Dr. Lawton is also an endurance athlete and has completed several triathlons, including three Iron Man. He particularly enjoys running, from local 5ks to 50-mile trial runs. He even recently took on the challenge of running across the Grand Canyon, from the South Rim to the North Rim, and back again in one day! 

Dr. Nathanial Ellis, our dedicated dentist at Mark E. Lawton, DDS, PA, brings a wealth of expertise and a compassionate approach to his practice in Houston. To discover more about Dr. Ellis, please read on:

Where Did You Study Dentistry?

Dr. Nathanial Ellis earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, Oregon.

What Experience Did You Gain After Completing Your Education?

After graduating, Dr. Ellis treated patients in Portland, Oregon, for several years, where he gained valuable experience in providing dental care. He then moved to Houston to be closer to his family after spending several years practicing dentistry in Portland.

How Do You Approach Patient Care, Especially For Those With Dental Anxiety?

Dr. Ellis is dedicated to enhancing the patient experience, particularly for those who feel anxious about dental visits. He is known for his compassionate approach and his commitment to creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for all patients.

What Activities Do You Enjoy Outside Of Work?

Dr. Ellis leads an active lifestyle and enjoys sports like soccer, pickleball, volleyball, and spikeball. His enthusiasm for these activities mirrors his energetic and approachable personality, which he brings into his dental care.