About Us

Bates Family Dentistry has been family owned and operated since 1985. Each member of the family has had an opportunity to contribute his or her personal touch to some aspect of the practice.

The late Pauline Ruth Bates, mother of Dr. Bates, was passionate and determined to help make the practice a place centered around service and love for others. Outside of answering phones and assisting where she was needed, “Nanny” would personally sign birthday cards for each and every patient seen through the practice.

We hope to continue to contribute to her vision and see it lived out on a daily basis.

Dr. Edsel Bates, Jr.
Born and raised in Nashville, Dr. Bates was inspired by his childhood dentist to pursue a career in the field of dentistry. After attending David Lipscomb University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Biology, Dr. Bates attended dental school at the University of Tennessee Memphis where he was awarded the Certificate of Merit for outstanding achievement, proficiency, and promise in the field of Dentistry. He returned to Nashville to work as an associate at the office of his childhood dentist in Brentwood. Several years later he opened his own practice in City Park where the practice has been for over 30 years.

Dr. Bates has a true passion for serving the community and being part of mission work across the world. His mission for the Brentwood practice is to encourage preventive health and well-being as well as creating beautiful smiles for patients.

Peggy Bates
Peggy Bates, wife of Dr. Bates for over 35 years, managed the practice for over 20 years. Her love and dedication to the practice has left a permanent mark and legacy for future generations.

Phillip Bates
Office Manager

Misty Bates, Clinical Coordinator / Lead Hygienist
Misty, Dr. Bates daughter, is the clinical coordinator and lead hygienist at Bates Family Dentistry. Her passion for preventive health started in college at Samford University where she received a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition/Dietetics. She was an active member of Chi Omega at Samford University serving as Recruitment Chair her senior year. She went on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at the University of Tennessee Memphis. During her training in Memphis she saw patients at St. Jude Children’s Hospital, The Naval Base in Millington, The Church Health Center in Memphis, and the UT Memphis dental clinic in the heart of downtown Memphis. Misty’s work in Memphis not only gave her experience in various dental settings, but also provided her a chance to work with patients of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. In addition to working as a full-time hygienist, Misty is a certified barre3 instructor and is actively involved in the Juice Plus Company. She enjoys spending time with her family as well as connecting her passion for preventive health both in and outside the office.