A Houston native, Dr. Lawnin brings a unique combination of engineering precision and compassionate care to his dental practice. His journey began at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, where he earned his bachelor's degree in biomedical engineering, studies that sparked his passion for dentistry and led him to pursue his Doctorate in Dental Surgery at New York University.Following graduation.

Dr. Lawnin returned to his hometown to complete a comprehensive two-year residency at the University of Texas School of Dentistry and Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center. This intensive training exposed him to diverse patient populations and complex cases, including hospitalized patients, head and neck cancer survivors, and special needs individuals.

During his residency, he mastered advanced techniques in conscious and IV sedation, full mouth rehabilitation, aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry, and cutting-edge implant procedures.



‍Professional Excellence and Leadership

‍Dr. Lawnin's commitment to excellence is reflected in his impressive credentials and ongoing involvement in the dental community. He holds active memberships in the Academy of General Dentistry, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and Greater Houston Dental Society, where he serves on multiple leadership committees.

His dedication to education led him to serve as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Texas School of Dentistry for five years, where he mentored residents in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry and General Practice programs, teaching complex oral rehabilitations and advanced restorative techniques. His expertise has earned him prestigious recognition, including a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry, an achievement attained by only 5% of dentists nationwide.

Dr. Lawnin is also distinguished as a Digital Smile Design (DSD) Master, joining fewer than 300 dentists worldwide and only five in Texas to earn this coveted designation through rigorous training and demonstrated excellence in digital smile design. Under his leadership, Tanglewood Dental Associates achieved certification as an official Digital Smile Design Clinic, a distinction held by fewer than 150 dental offices globally.

Dr. Lawnin's artistic eye, honed through his passion for fine art photography, naturally complements his expertise in aesthetic dentistry and digital smile design, allowing him to see and create the perfect balance of form and function in every smile.

‍Community Impact

‍Beyond his clinical excellence, Dr. Lawnin is deeply committed to improving his community. He serves as a leader at The Story Church and has dedicated significant time to Jubilee Prison Ministry, leading ministry missions through their fourth-day program that helps inmates discover purpose and transformation. He previously contributed his expertise as a Board of Directors member for A 2nd Cup, a non-profit coffeeshop dedicated to combating human trafficking.

‍Personal Life

‍When he's not caring for patients, Dr. Lawnin treasures time with his wife Brittany and their two young sons. His creative pursuits include fine art photography, where his keen eye for composition and lighting translates beautifully into his dental work, particularly in aesthetic procedures and smile design. He also enjoys exploring the world of specialty coffee and working to improve his golf game, bringing the same attention to detail and pursuit of excellence to his personal interests as he does to his professional practice.