Expert Lynchburg Orthodontist
Dr. Mason Bates, DDS, MSD
Mason Bates is a native of Houston Texas and will forever love a good pair of boots, Tex-Mex food, and country music. He and his wife, Courtney, have a beautiful daughter, Brinley, and are expecting to welcome another child in May 2023. They also have an energetic pup named Kali who loves to go on outdoor adventures with them.
Dr. Bates purchased the orthodontic practice of Dr. Mark Blanchette (now retired) in August of 2021 and considers it a true blessing to be able to carry on Dr. Blanchette’s legacy of compassionate and excellent, patient-focused care. He loves being able to impact his patients by providing the smile they've always dreamed of and prides himself on providing excellent treatment results while also building lasting relationships with his patients and their families.
Education & Training
Dr. Bates graduated with honors, earning his Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University in 2014. He then went on to attend The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Dentistry, where he graduated at the top of his class. Dr. Bates earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 2019.
He completed his specialty training in orthodontics at one of the nation's most prestigious residency programs, Virginia Commonwealth University, where he received his Graduate Certificate in Orthodontics and Master of Science in Dentistry in 2021. Following the completion of his orthodontic speciality training, Dr. Bates further studied to become a board-certified orthodontist, certified by the American Board of Orthodontics.
Additionally, Dr. Bates has been the recipient of numerous awards for academic and research excellence. These awards include an international award and publication for his research in maxillofacial prosthetics and an award from the Southern Association of Orthodontists for his research on Invisalign. Dr. Bates has also authored two internationally published research articles.
Outside the Office
Dr. Bates maintains a strong commitment to ministry, mentorship, and serving his community.
Some of his strongest relationships have been formed while working as a camp counselor, leading with Young Life, serving on international mission trips, and co-founding a ministry to reach healthcare professionals during his time in dental school.
Dr. Bates and his family are members of Gospel Community Church - Rivermont here in Lynchburg.
Dr. Bates is passionate about all things outdoors. In his free time, he loves fly fishing, hiking, camping, snowboarding/skiing, playing ice hockey, exercising, reading, and traveling.