Growing up as the son of a dentist, there’s always this kind of expectation that you should become a dentist too. Well, growing up, I didn’t really think much about it. Really, I just liked working with my hands. So, growing up it was starting to be like architecture and engineering, eventually cooking, and then I’d get into undergrad at the University of Oklahoma and I decided pre-med, pre-medicine, kind of figure out if I still want to do that because I was still leaning towards I want to help as many people as possible and as you can kind of tell I like to work with my hands. But as I went through the years, eventually, just dentistry started to make sense and so about probably junior year of undergrad that’s when I started to talk to my dad a bit more about dentistry as a profession and how that would fit more with what I want to do.
When you’re in a lot of pain or you’re just not happy with…you know, unable to eat, unable to just even smile or talk because that’s a lot of things we do. As human beings we like to read faces subconsciously and the biggest thing is your smile and your teeth. So, I want to at least, provide something that people are happy with, something that they can use and it’s usually the first sign of health too is taking care of that. Starting off, grew up here in Lawton, graduated in 2012, went to the University of Oklahoma for four years and then went to the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry up in Oklahoma City. Graduated from there pretty recently, about 2022. So, I’m pretty new at this, about to finish my second year of actually working in the dental field and it’s a lot different than school and everything but I’m pretty happy with it all.
There’s only so much dental school can teach you and I’m not taking a hit on what they didn’t teach me, there’s just so much. Part of the first things I wanted to do that I felt like I was lacking in as my first CE courses was treatment planning and case acceptance and kind of understanding how a patient’s bite or their occlusion kind of comes all together so that kind of drives how I can get treatment planned for patients. So, those are the kind of, and I’m still going through taking those courses too because it’s not just I take one course and that’s it, it’s like it kind of builds on itself and then everything else kind of intermingles with just those courses.
Trust Your Smile to Eric D. Lopez, DDS
Dr. Eric Lopez grew up in Lawton, Oklahoma, and completed his studies at OU College of Dentistry in 2022. After finishing school, he returned to Lawton to join his father, Dr. Juan R. Lopez, at Lopez Dental Associates.
Outside of work, Dr. Lopez enjoys spending time with his dogs, working out, and cooking. He also has a fondness for reading science fiction books and painting miniatures as a hobby.
I have been a patient of Dr Juan Lopez for many years. He is the best! I needed an implant and the results were awesome! No problems whatsoever with it. It look great! I would recommend him and his staff if you are looking for a dentist. They are friendly, kind, and caring. I have never been disappointed in any procedure I have had there. A shout out to my hygienist Jennifer! She is awesome and deserves a raise! 😁
Dr. Lopez and his team have performed extensive procedures for me over the years. Not only have strangers come up to me to compliment me on my beautiful smile, but also some of my friends (who are dental professionals) have remarked on the high quality of the work he did on my smile! It is stunning! He is a paramount professional who only accepts excellence from himself and his team! Consider yourself lucky if you are able to have him as your dentist!!!
I was pleasantly surprised by the level of care Dr. Lopez and his staff gave me during my visit. Everyone, from the receptionist to the hygienist were pleasant and took time to explain each procedure before hand. Their attention to detail reassures me that I will be very pleased with the care I will receive going forward.
My experience in the office was amazing!! Everyone was so kind and patient with me. Did not make me feel ashamed about the state of my teeth. Holly had the most gentle hands while cleaning my teeth!!! Will definitely keep going.
Such an amazing doctor and team. Not only are your health problems a concern but every treatment plan is Taylor made for you. I have the privilege of knowing and being a patient of Dr. Lopez for 25 years.
I used to hate going to the dentist. But once I started going to Dr Lopez I dont mind going at all! I feel like everyone is very well trained and that they care about the individual patient. I also think they must use state of the art equipment because they’ve never hurt me in all of the processes I’ve had done there. It helps too that Dr Lopez is such a nice and funny guy. I dont ever want to change my dentist!
What an amazing team! From reception desk, to the dental chair, it’s clear they all love the service they offer. Top notch technology, and experience. If looking for a new dental family, I highly recommend both Dr. Lopez’s, and their teams. Finally found my new dental home, and I thank you! Julie Shelton
So grateful for the awesome care with Dr. LOPEZ office. I have been terrified of going to the dentist. Such great experiences every time I’ve been there. Even with multiple root canals in the same appointment.
12/10 recommend Lopez Dental Associates! My two boys (5 and 3) and myself have been going there for just over a year now! Jesica is the best dental hygienist!!!— she is patient, kind, and has wonderful bedside manner. If you are looking as an adult or for your kids, this place comes highly recommended!
Dr. Eric Lopez and his team are fabulous! They were able to give me a last-minute appointment when I had a dental emergency and fixed the issue beautifully. I highly recommend this practice!