Our Doctors

Lawrence R. Ladowski, DDS, PS

“I believe the key to being a good dentist is having a quality education. The skills I have learned at dental school, combined with the knowledge from additional training courses, help me be a dentist you can rely on.”

After graduating from Bethel High School, I started my education at Washington State University where I achieved my B.S. in Zoology. I finished my schooling at the University of Washington where I received my Doctorate of Dental Surgery. With the help of my wife, Jamie, we started this practice from the ground up.For the past 33 years, we have proudly continued to maintain and modify our practice to fit the needs of my patients with the most up-to-date, state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

My wife and I have three wonderful children together: Danielle, Drew, and Lindsey. In my spare time, I enjoy competing in marathons, and am an active member of the Washington State Cougar Alumni. I just completed a half marathon in Kona, Hawaii and am continuing to train for future runs. My wife and I attend as many football games as our schedule allows.

I am a member of the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, Washington Dental Service, Pierce County Dental Society, and the Better Business Bureau.

Danielle N. Tomlinson, DDS

“I believe being a great dentist requires a good education and skills that can be utilized based on what the patient needs. I feel that doctor-patient communication is “key” to properly managing each individual’s needs.”

The skills I have learned at the University of Washington’s Dental School, combined with the knowledge from additional training courses, help me be a dentist you can rely on. I enjoy the challenge of treating a wide range of patients that are looking for a nicer smile whether that requires dental implants to replace missing teeth or invisalign to straighten teeth. I have completed hours of continuing education, including the study of advanced cosmetic dentistry, implantology, dental emergencies, and invisalign orthodontics.

I have been married to my best-friend, Bill, for 10 years and together for 21. We have four children; Peyton is nine, Dane is 7,and our twins Piper and Jaxon are five. I enjoy being physically active outdoors with activities such as: running, skiing, hiking, cycling, gardening, etc .

I have professional memberships including the American Dental Association, Washington State Dental Association, and Pierce County Dental Society which allow me to stay current on the latest technologies and treatments.

Your Meridian Support

Team Of Professionals

Lydia Haugen

Office Manager

I started my dental career as a dental assistant but found that after being cross-trained at the front desk, I enjoyed the administrative side of dentistry more. I’ve been with Meridian South Family Dentistry since 2000, and have enjoyed working with such a close-knit family practice. Outside of work I love spending time with my family, especially doing things in the outdoors!

Kassie Petersen

Treatment Coodinator

Hi, I am Kassie and have been with Meridian South Family Dentistry for 11 years; you often see me at checkout while leaving the office. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my husband and beautiful daughter. Together, we enjoy camping, traveling, and spending time as a family.

Nicole Heck

Receptionist

My name is Nicole, I have been working with Meridian South Family Dentistry for 3 1/2 years and have been in the dental field for 8 years. I enjoy working for an office that is family oriented. I have been married for 8 years and have a 2 1/2 year old son that keeps me busy, and am expecting a little boy due in September.

Jackie Babic

Receptionist

I have been in dentistry for 21 years and have worked at Meridian South Family Dentistry for 18 of them. My husband and I have 3 beautiful children; Kolton, Katie and Kennedy, and 2 canine children; Zoee, a German Shorthair Pointer and Bear, a German Shepherd. We love spending time at our cabin at the beach and just spending time with family.

Valorie Anderson

Dental Assistant

I’ve been working with Meridian South Family Dentistry for 11 years and I’ve been in dentistry for 18. What I enjoy most about being an assistant is working hand in hand with Dr. Ladowski and our cosmetic cases, it brings the artist out in me. I love spending time with my family and pets who keep me very busy outside of work!

Lindsey Eagen

Dental Assistant

I am lucky to be working with my family here at Meridian South Family Dentistry; my dad is Dr. Ladowski and my sister is Dr. Tomlinson. Outside of work I love spending time with my husband and two children who keep me on my toes! We enjoy watching movies, fishing, traveling and shopping. I also am a pet lover with 3 dogs and 1 cat.

Jen Stumpf

Dental Hygienist

I graduated from the Pierce College dental hygiene program in 2008. I’ve been with Meridian South Family Dentistry since 2009. I am married with two children who are very active and we love being outdoors as a family. We enjoy fishing, off-roading, and hiking. I thoroughly enjoy being a hygienist and bonding with my patients.

Elizabeth (Beth) Apperson

Dental Hygienist

I was born and raised in University Place, WA. I graduated from the Pierce College Dental Hygiene program in 2010. I have worked in several dental fields including oral surgery, endodontics, and now general dentistry. I feel very fortunate to be in a career that I am truly passionate about. I enjoy traveling, maintaining an active lifestyle, and watching the Seahawks! I married my husband Dave in Maui in 2012. We have two beautiful young children that keep us busy, Lucas and Ava.