Dr. Lawton grew up in the Midwest and Upstate New York but went back to his familys roots in Maine for his college years. He attended Bates College and graduated in 1975 with a B.S. in Chemistry. He then went on to Boston, and graduated magna cum laude at the top of his class with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in 1979. Following a year teaching at Tufts University, he joined the U. S. Army Dental Corps. He practiced general dentistry in Bad Kreuznach, Germany and Ft. Carson, Colorado Springs, Colorado. While at Ft. Carson, then Major Lawton served as the Division Dental Surgeon for the 4th Infantry Division. In 1990, he completed a residency in prosthodontics at the Dwight David Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Fort Gordon in Augusta, Georgia. Following his residency, he was assigned as a staff prosthodontist at Ft. Lewis, Tacoma, Washington. He completed his board certification in prosthodontics in 1991.
In 1993, he took over an established prosthodontic practice from Dr. David Wands, in Olympia where he practices today. Dr. Lawton has earned many awards and honors. He was Valedictorian of his dental class at Tufts, and received the Restorative Dentistry Award, the American Academy of Radiology Award, plus election to Omicron Kappa Upsilon, the national dental honor society. He received the award for Outstanding Achievement in Dental Research at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center and numerous military decorations.
Dr. Lawton is a Diplomate of the American Board of Prosthodontics, and a Fellow of the American College of Prosthodontists. Some of his memberships include: the American Dental Association, the Academy of Osseointegration, the Pacific Coast Society for Prosthodontics, the Washington State Society of Prosthodontists, and the American Prosthodontic Society. He is a past president of the Thurston-Mason County Dental Society and the Washington State Society of Prosthodontists. He served as president of the Pacific Coast Society for Prosthodontics, one of the oldest prosthodontic societies in existence. Dr. Lawton presided over their 82nd Annual Meeting in Coeur dAlene, Idaho in June of 2017.
Dr. Lawton currently serves as one of six directors of the Editorial Council of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry (JPD). The JPD is the oldest and most respected prosthodontic journal in dentistry, established in 1951.
Dr. Lawton enjoys lecturing and giving dental presentations and is active in several dental study clubs in the Puget Sound region. He is committed to staying current with the latest advances in prosthodontics. He attends many national and regional dental meetings and receives many hours of continuing dental education annually.
Dr. Lawton and his wife Melissa have three children. Melissa loves to help people and manages a large nursing home grant program for the State of Washington. Matthew serves in the US Air Force and he and his wife have two adorable dogs and love all things outdoors. Nicole lives in Colorado where she is an avid skier and outdoor enthusiast. She is a professional mountaineering and back country skiing guide. Kallie is 18 and in her first year of college in California. She loves to ski, hike, practice yoga and hang out with her many friends. The family is rounded out by their lovable dog, Penni.
Dr. Manchester grew up in Great Falls, Montana. He attended Montana State University and graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in microbiology. He then came to Seattle and graduated as one of the top students in his class with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from the University of Washington School of Dentistry. He completed a one-year general practice residency at the University of Minnesota, before returning to the University of Washington for his graduate studies.After completing his residency in prosthodontics, Dr. Manchester received his Master of Science in Dentistry (MSD) degree from the Graduate Prosthodontic Program at the UW School of Dentistry. He was the recipient of the David H. Wands Endowment Fellowship in Graduate Prosthodontics during his program, a true honor. Interestingly, Dr. Wands started his prosthodontic practice in Olympia in 1980 which became the Northwest Center for Prosthodontics.
Dr. Manchester and his wife, Liza, who is also a dentist, and their two children, were drawn to the Olympia area because of the small-town feel of the city and access to outdoor recreational opportunities. They cherish their family time and enjoy going on hikes, watching movies, trying new restaurants, and spending time with friends.
Our team members are the heart and soul of Northwest Center for Prosthodontics. They are dedicated to promoting and preserving the oral health of our patients and strive to create a comfortable and positive experience for everyone who walks through our door. Take a moment and get to know our team!
Ruthann has been with us for over 25 years! She maintains both doctors schedules, assists patients with financial arrangements, coordinates in-house and out-of-office lab procedures, and most of all, keeps patients happy. She loves helping people achieve a beautiful smile, and enjoys coming to work with a group of fantastic colleagues, many of whom have been working together for more than 20 years. Teamwork makes the dream work!
Katherine recently joined Northwest Center for Prosthodontics but has more than 25 years of experience in the dental field. She is proud to be part of a high quality practice with such caring doctors and staff, and enjoys doing whatever she can to make each patients visit as pleasant as possible.
Leah has been practicing dental hygiene for nearly 30 years with more than 12 of those in prosthetic dentistry. She began her career working with Dr. David Wands in his prosthodontic practice in Olympia. Interestingly, Dr. Rodger Lawton joined Dr. Wands in 1993 and then Dr. Josh Manchester joined Dr. Lawton in practice in 2017, so Leah has returned to practice where she started!
Leah attended Pierce College and earned her associate degree in dental hygiene in 1989. What she enjoys the most are the patient relationships and the ability to transform a patients oral health and the impact it can have on their lives. She loves being a part of the transformation process and the confidence and loyalties the patients have with her.
DeLynn has been with Northwest Center for Prosthodontics since 1996 and is a graduate of South Puget Sound Community Colleges dental assisting program. She has attended many continuing education courses through the years, and is highly-knowledgeable when it comes to procedures, dental materials and instruments. She loves helping patients through their treatments from start to finish, and seeing them once again smile with confidence. DeLynn considers it a special pleasure to work with such highly-qualified prosthodontists, technicians and co-workers.
Outside the office, DeLynn enjoys playing the piano, knitting, crocheting and sewing. She also does decorative and oil painting, photography, and likes getting out to hike. She is married and has a grown son.
Susan has been with us for 25-plus years. She loves being part of a dedicated team that provides a high quality standard of dentistry. Knowing that patients return for continued care is the best compliment she could ask for. She looks forward to coming to work to serve her patients each and every day.
Theresa performs a multitude of tasks, including assisting with patients, maintaining the sterilization area and helping the back office run smoothly. She loves interacting with the wonderful staff every day and working with our amazing patients.
In her free time, Theresa enjoys spending time with her mom, three sisters and beautiful niece, Kenzi. She also enjoys hiking, longboarding and snowboarding. Theresa has two beautiful Dobermans, Charlee and Zeus.
Alf has been our in-house dental technician since 1993. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree in zoology, an Associate of Arts degree in dental technology, and has been certified in ceramics for 26 years (CDT). He meets personally with patients and is able to make their new crowns right in the office. He loves seeing the high quality of care that patients receive and having co-workers that are like family.
Roland has been reproducing dental products since graduating from dental laboratory school. He completes ongoing continuing education classes from masters in the field both as an owner and employee since 1987. He has great appreciation for his peers and co-workers, from our reception to the laboratory, as each has chosen to broaden their knowledge in the field to best accommodate each individual patient. It is a pleasure for him to see the gratitude of each patient as a result of our efforts as we unite our skill sets and experiences. He values the opportunity to share experiences in the field with his colleagues and team members, which has allowed him to approach each case systematically, ultimately benefiting patients with the outcomes they desire. Witnessing this outcome enhances Rolands desire as a technician to continue to learn and provide the best results from his studies.
Roland is married with two daughters. His daughters both have spouses who honorably serve our country, and a grandson is on the way. Roland is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys the great northwest through hiking, boating or riding, and he has an appreciation for fine dining and listening to music.
Reviews
Rating 5.0 out of 5 based on 23 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestCarolyn Mart
2 years ago
Had the best day ever, at the Dentist no less. Dr Lawton and team made my 70 year old teeth look so awesome, why did I wait. Love there knowledge and great atmosphere. Thank you so much. Carolyn
Chris Wilson
2 years ago
Dr. Lawton was given the monumental task of fixing another person's work when taking over my case. He didn't take this lightly, he started over from scratch and boy did he shine!!! I went from very disheartened and depressed to smiling and eating whatever I want over the course of 16 months. I strongly recommend him. His attention to detail and his communication skills are second to none. My whole family uses his office now.
Graham
2 years ago
I recently completed 2 years of treatment with Dr. Lawton, including an extensive bone graph, 2 implants and 6 veneers. The level of care I received from Dr. Lawton and his entire team was EXCELLENT. The result has been life changing, not only in terms of the aesthetic value of my smile, but having a fully functioning and healthy bite. I can unreservedly recommend Northwest Center for Prosthodontics for the absolute best level of care.
Marie Swanson
2 years ago
Dr. Manchester was the most patient dr I have ever been to. He took the time to make sure I knew everything and that I was happy with the results. I would highly recommend.
Lexis Wilson
2 years ago
Dr. Lawton and his staff are amazing. I had a 6 hour appointment with Dr. Lawton for some crown work, I also have a medical condition that makes my legs move constantly. Dr. Lawson worked diligently the entire time while my legs were moving, he did not miss a beat, nor show any frustration at the situation. I was able to take frequent breaks to walk around. The crowns turned out beautifully and the fit was perfect. I would give him and his staff 10 stars if I could. I highly recommend this highly skill, patient and kind DMD and his staff. Sincerely, DW
Gary Tischue
3 years ago
The best. Absolutely the best. Dr Lawton did a remarkable job. Dentures fit painlessly from day one. Several years later I had the upper relined with a different dentist and now cannot wear them comfortably. Time to reschedule with NWCP. Update: 45 minutes with Dr Lawton and remarkable results. He went to work, no impressions just skill. Retooled the denture and now it fits as it should. Comfortably. Couldn't be more pleased.
Marie Swanson
3 years ago
Dr. Manchester was the most patient dr I have ever been to. He took the time to make sure I knew everything and that I was happy with the results. I would highly recommend.
Julianne Drasgow
3 years ago
I brought my son in because his front permanent tooth was broken off. Dr. Manchester was excellent with coming up with a long-term solution for him. He was very thorough in making sure the veneer was a perfect match with both color and shape and he made my son feel comfortable and at ease at every appointment. We couldn't have asked for a better outcome and so grateful that our son has his smile back! Highly recommend!
Graham
3 years ago
I recently completed 2 years of treatment with Dr. Lawton, including an extensive bone graph, 2 implants and 6 veneers. The level of care I received from Dr. Lawton and his entire team was EXCELLENT. The result has been life changing, not only in terms of the aesthetic value of my smile, but having a fully functioning and healthy bite. I can unreservedly recommend Northwest Center for Prosthodontics for the absolute best level of care.
Lexis Wilson
3 years ago
Dr. Lawton and his staff are amazing. I had a 6 hour appointment with Dr. Lawton for some crown work, I also have a medical condition that makes my legs move constantly. Dr. Lawson worked diligently the entire time while my legs were moving, he did not miss a beat, nor show any frustration at the situation. I was able to take frequent breaks to walk around. The crowns turned out beautifully and the fit was perfect. I would give him and his staff 10 stars if I could. I highly recommend this highly skill, patient and kind DMD and his staff. Sincerely, DW
nik brown
3 years ago
It came to my attention in my early adulthood that I had not been getting good quality sleep for as long as I can remember. When I would speak with people about sleep they would always say that they were not tired like I was in the morning. I received a simple device to sleep with and a scan of my airway. Which revealed that although I don't have trouble breathing during the day, my airway at night could be collapsing causing sleep apnea. I was given a sleep appliance to try out and see if my sleep improved. All I can say is wow! My mornings are much easier to handle and get out of bed. I don't have headaches in the morning. The appliance was life changing. I would definitely recommend this office for their knowledgable doctor, Dr. Josh Manchester, and his excellent team for any sleep related issues.
Connie Owen
3 years ago
My experience with Dr Manchester and staff was awesome. He listened to all of my complaints with my previous dental work. I was very happy with the results. I wish I could remember the name of his dental assistant. She was very easy to talk to. Dr Manchester made me feel comfortable. The ladies at the front desk were very nice too. I get very nervous going to the dentist but the results were the best. Thank you all.
Jill Daly
3 years ago
I have been a patient of Dr. Lawton's for over 3 years now. He corrected my bite to begin with. I was thrilled with that after suffering jaw pain for years! As of late, I had my 4 front teeth re-done with veneer. What a huge difference in my smile. It's the most beautiful my teeth have ever looked! I'm so proud to give a great, big smile now. Both Dr. Lawton and his entire staff are very professional, kind and patient. I highly recommend Dr. Lawton for all your dental needs.
Meigan
3 years ago
What a wonderful and caring team! I've been missing a tooth for a long while now and I'm so grateful I went to Northwest Center for Prosthodontics to finally get it replaced. Everyone there always made me feel welcome and included in my treatment plan; they patiently explained what was going on every step of the way. The results are stunning. I'm a little camera shy so I can't post a picture, but rest assured I look a thousand times better now that I have a complete smile. Thank you Dr. Lawton and everyone else for always answering my thousands of questions and working tirelessly to make sure my new tooth looks perfect! I can't recommend your practice enough!
Julianne Drasgow
3 years ago
I brought my son in because his front permanent tooth was broken off. Dr. Manchester was excellent with coming up with a long-term solution for him. He was very thorough in making sure the veneer was a perfect match with both color and shape and he made my son feel comfortable and at ease at every appointment. We couldn't have asked for a better outcome and so grateful that our son has his smile back! Highly recommend!
Gary Tischue
3 years ago
The best. Absolutely the best. Dr Lawton did a remarkable job. Dentures fit painlessly from day one. Several years later I had the upper relined with a different dentist and now cannot wear them comfortably. Time to reschedule with NWCP. Update: 45 minutes with Dr Lawton and remarkable results. He went to work, no impressions just skill. Retooled the denture and now it fits as it should. Comfortably. Couldn't be more pleased.
R Adamson
4 years ago
Happy Halloween to all at Northwest Center For Prosthodontics! Leah cleaned my teeth today and as always, she was excellent! Who falls asleep during a dental cleaning!!? Guess that would be ME!!!! Thank you for a job well done ... now ready for all that candy!!! Have a spooktacular day!
Donald Hartman
4 years ago
Best service. Best advice Best friendly people Ben using them 15 years pluse.
nik brown
4 years ago
It came to my attention in my early adulthood that I had not been getting good quality sleep for as long as I can remember. When I would speak with people about sleep they would always say that they were not tired like I was in the morning. I received a simple device to sleep with and a scan of my airway. Which revealed that although I don't have trouble breathing during the day, my airway at night could be collapsing causing sleep apnea. I was given a sleep appliance to try out and see if my sleep improved. All I can say is wow! My mornings are much easier to handle and get out of bed. I don't have headaches in the morning. The appliance was life changing. I would definitely recommend this office for their knowledgable doctor, Dr. Josh Manchester, and his excellent team for any sleep related issues.
Sharon Stone
4 years ago
I recently had cosmetic procedures done by Dr Lawton and am very pleased with the results. I was in the dental chair for 5 hours twice and Dr Lawton and the staff made me very comfortable during this time. Thank you!
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