Meet the Doctor
Bruce Watkins, DDS
DIPLOMATE, International Dental Implant Association
● Highest Status Awarded for Distinguished Implant Excellence
After graduating dental school, Dr. Bruce Watkin was commissioned in the U.S. Naval Dental Corp. After spending his first year in a General Practice Residency program he was deployed with a SeaBee battalion to Puerto Rico and Okinawa. Following his service, he returned to Indiana to a group practice in South Bend.
With a desire to have a more hands-on, personal practice he started Watkins Family Dental in 2002. He felt with his vast experiences in General Practice Residency, Navy and civilian training he could build a great practice by providing quality, caring, comprehensive dentistry.
Dr. Watkin's commitment to cutting-edge is clear, but also tempered by the knowledge of what has been proven and successful. He is most proud of the positive changes that he has brought to his patients' lives. He has maintained the highest level of integrity, amidst busy daily schedules and often challenging situations.
"I recommend the best, as I would for myself and my own family. I am involved in every step of the dental experience. I am available to clients and staff, ensuring the highest level of client care."
Education
- Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS), Northwest, Indiana School of Dentistry - High Honor in 1998
- One Year General Practice Residency, U.S. Naval Dental Corp., Portsmouth Naval Hospital
● Experienced Hospital Dentistry, exposure to dental specialty treatments, and trauma
Advanced Post-Graduate Studies & Excels in the Fields of:
- Implant Placement
● Studied Under Dr. Arun Garg, Leader in Implant Placement Training
● Awarded DIPLOMATE Status - Cosmetic Dentistry
- General Dentistry
- CEREC 1 Visit Crown Certified & Lectures Other Dentists
Professional Memberships
- International Dental Implant Association (IDIA) - DIPLOMATE
- American Academy of Facial Aesthetics (AAFE)
- Academy of General Dentistry (AGD)
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD)
- American Dental Society (ADA)
- Indiana Dental Association (IDA)
- Chicago Dental Society (CDS)
- North Central Dental Society (NCDS)
- Elkhart Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Bruce Watkins, Certified Member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics
Certificate for PDO Thread Lifts Awarded by the American Academy of Facial Esthetics
Congratulations to Dr. Watkins on achieving his Diplomate level training with the International Dental Implant Association.
This is the highest distinction achievable in dental implant and bone grafting training. This process has taken over 2 years, more than 250 continuing education hours in lecture, cadaver and live patient training with Dr. Garg and Implant Seminars. Dr. Watkins is most proud of the live patient experiences as those cases were donated to underserved Dominican Republic citizens that would never have been able to access the high level of implant related care that he and his colleagues provided at no cost. On two separate occasions, over 2.5 million dollars of treatment were donated to those amazing people by dentists just like Dr. Watkins learning their craft and supervised by established, internationally regarded professionals from all over the world. Dr. Watkins completed his case presentations, didactic and clinical hours on the 5th of February. We are proud to provide our patients with ever expanding treatment options by training with the best to provide the best care possible.
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Testimonials
Absolutely flawless. Try them out.
Very professional.
—Roger Ockomon
Via 
I had a tooth extracted, then had an implant put in its place . Dr. Watkins and staff were very professional and helpful in every way. It was explained in layman"s terms , concerning price and length of procedure . My wife and I both get our teeth cleaned every 6 months also. If you want a 5 star office with high tech equipment, go to Watkins family dentistry.
—Greg Leigh
Via 
I thanked the person who recommended Dr Watkins to me. Go there and you'll thank me! An amazing experience will be yours.
—Jeff A
Via
Great dentist and a wonderful, friendly staff! All 5 of my family members have had a great experience here.
—Nicole Greene
Via
I've been going here as a kid and I have never once had a bad experience here! The staff is wonderful and cares about you amd your oral health!
—Darius Wine
Via
I love my dental hygienist. She is funny and always makes the trip enjoyable instead of something to dread.
—Bethany Burdine
Via
I have been taking my daughter here since she was 2 and she is now 7! We love all of the staff and always have an enjoyable experience.
—Christina Vinsant
Via
My 4 young kids really enjoy going to the dentist now. everyone is very friendly and even My 2 and 4 year old go back by themselves. They look forward in getting new toothbrush and other goodies.
—The Caseman Crew
Via
Love Dr Watkins office. Staff is great. I have terribly sensitive teeth and they do a great job cleaning with no pain. I appreciate that tremendously.
—Crew Miller
Via
I had a situation arise with my son chipping his tooth at the playground. Me being a parent I thought the worst and treated it as an emergency. Upon calling Watkins dentistry, they were able to get me in the following day, and my son examined and excellently taken care of.
—Ryan Morris
Via
Dr Watkins and his staff are great! Not only do they do a great job at an affordable price, they are nice and the atmosphere is very friendly!
—Ron Hohl
Via
Love the staff at Watkins Family Dentistry! They make you feel like a part of the family and always make sure I’m taken care of!
—Tara Hudson
Via
I have had some traumatic experiences as a child and have struggled with anxiety surrounding the dentist. But since becoming a patient of Watkins dentistry, I have never felt more at ease. The facilities are extremely nice with such a relaxing atmosphere and an even more comforting staff!
—Sarah McClure
Via
Have been visiting Dr. Watkins for over 15 years now and have always been taken care of professionally and promptly
—Austin Moniot
Via
I have been going to Dr. Watkins for over two years now and it feels like family, not just going to the dentist. All the staff are so friendly and they truly care.
—Kyleigh Kline
Via
I have been under Dr. Watkins care since 2009, he has the best dental care and staff!
—Michell Robinson
Via
Dr. Watkins and staff are very welcoming and friendly. They practice excellent dentistry and I'd recommend them to anybody.
—Tyler Bird
Via
Great office and staff. Makes going to the dentist more enjoyable.
—Josh Reed
Via
I have had two dental implants by Dr. Watkins.
He is extremely down to earth at explaining the procedure, and any problems that may occur. Both implants went well. I would not go to just any dentist for this procedure. He, his staff, and office crew are always kind and asking if I am ok before, during, and after my procedures. Thank you all for becoming MY dental team!!!!
—Craig Spicher
Via
Have been going to Dr. Watkins for over 10 years. Very friendly and caring staff. I actually look forward to seeing them at each visit. They are also great with younger kids. My 8 year old doesn't fear going to the dentist at all!
—Kten Kinder
Via
The staff at Watkins family dentistry is so friendly they make going to the dentist enjoyable.
—Elizabeth Stout
Via
Love this dentist office!! My son and I both go here and they are always so nice and do a great job.
—Kayla Hostetler
Via
My experience at Watkins Family Dentistry has been great every time I go! The hygentists are great and Dr. Watkins is very thorough and has been the best dentist I’ve encountered!
—Lea Weddington
Via
Terrified of the Dentist but my visit to Watkins was Great !! Heather that cleaned my teeth was Amazing, and so understanding.
The doctor listened, and was very kind.
—The Ruwm
Via
Amazing staff that is extremely friendly and welcoming. I had everything explained thoroughly, making me feel very comfortable! Would highly recommend to anyone! :)
—Madison Blue
Via
Great staff! Always friendly and make you feel comfortable no matter what youre getting done. The tools they use are advanced and Bruce Watkins will definitely tell you straight up what treatments you need and hes very good at what he does. Would not go anywhere else.
—Chad Ellsworth
Via
My boyfriend got his wisdom teeth removed and the staff was very kind and patient. Very pleased with the visit.
—Christina Garner
Via
My mom has worked for Dr. Watkins for five years. This is my MOST FAVORITE dental office that she has ever worked for. Dr. Watkins has allowed me to come into his office and learn more about about the career that my mom has loved for 21 years. I hope to be a hygienist too one day. Thank you to Watkins Family Dentistry. ❤️❤️❤️
—Kelsey Keiper
Via
I have had multiple treatment completed here and Dr. Watkins has the most up to date technology and the most friendliest staff around. My family loves coming here as well. I know with Dr Watkins and his staff, my family and I will be well taken care of!
—B Smalls
Via
I have had a number of services done at Dr. Watkins’s office. Including cleanings, fillings, my wisdom teeth removed, and even dermal fillers for my lips. I have never felt more comfortable or confident at a dental office because I know Dr. Watkins cares about all his patients with wanting the best for them and takes pride in his work. If you’re looking for a great dentist that can do everything this is definitely the place for you!!
—Jordyn B
Via
Dr. Watkins and his staff are top notch. I have been going there since they opened and their level of care and personal touch has always been top level. I look forward to my dental experience every 6 months and the office staff and hygienists have become friends. Thanks Watkins Family Dentistry!!!
—Nate Stemm
Via
The staff for Watkins Family dentistry was very professional and friendly. I did not have to wait, they got me in and out in a timely manner. I was given very helpful information that could benefit me in the long run. I will be going back for anything needed in the future!
—Anna Himes
Via
Kids and "we're going to the dentist" are not the two things you want to mix. Watkins and his staff build relationships with their patients to accommodate and meet their needs. My kids love getting rid of the sugar bugs and holding Mr. Thirsty! Please check them out even if it's for a 6 month cleaning.
—Jeannette Pizana
Via
Watkins Family Dentistry is the best dental work I have ever seen by far in my lifespan. Great customer service toward the patients. The workers are amazing individuals, and I would want my future family attending an amazing dentistry such as the one of Watkins Family Dentistry. Best dental work in Indiana!
—Garrett Kuhn
Via
I have been a patient of Watkins family Dentistry for many years, and have always had very pleasant visits.
The staff is very kind and makes you feel very comfortable. Dr. Watkins is very gentle and knowledgeable.
—Kari Tucker
Via
I’ve been going here for over 30 years! I wouldn’t go anywhere else! I love my hygienist Becky. She is the absolute best!
—Megan Murnane
Via
I always had bad experiences at other locations. I’m so happy I came across Watkins Family Dentistry. Always friendly, attentive and most of all 100% pain free. Always a relaxed and pleasurable experience. I highly recommend them!!
—Paul Takoy
Via
We have been patients of Dr. Watkins for several years. We are always very pleased with the care we receive. Everyone in the office is makes us feel very comfortable during our visits!
—Janine Alwine
Via
I’ve probably been to 20 dentist in my life, this is definitely the cleanest and most advanced facility i have visited. Dr. Watkins is very understanding and the staff is the friendliest I have encountered. Highly recommend.
—Lori F
Via
Took my 2 daughters here for their first time at the dentist. Was very pleased with how friendly and patient the staff was. Now my girls love to come to the dentist!
—Jazzlynn Fredrickson
Via
ive done plenty of research about dental implants , and It is very clear that Dr. Watkins is in the top of his field . What impressed me most was that he was able to do EVERYTHING himself .... the extractions, the sinus lift and bone grafting , the implant placement and the crown. Smooth and painless beginning to end . Even if you have to drive a bit , he is worth it .
—D W
Via
Very professional staff. My visits have been on time and the staff always seems very pleasant. I've been impressed with Dr. Watkins wide range of skill sets.
—Dave Latislaw
Via
I had a wisdom tooth bothering me and Dr. Watkins and his staff got me right in the same week and he was able to extract it. He is open late one day throughout the week which made it convenient for me to schedule my appt after work hours and limited my time off of work. He and his staff took great care of me both during and after my procedure!
—Amber Van Zyl
Via
We absolutely love the staff here!!! Always smiling and friendly! Couldn’t ask for a better Dentist AND staff around!! Thank you Dr. Watkins and team for taking such good care of our 5 kids! ❤️
—Mindy Rice
Via
My family has been with Dr. Watkins and his team for many years. They are a pleasure to deal with and extremely good at caring for our dental needs. Great with children, teenagers, and adults.
—Chris Curtis
Via
Very impressed! First time here and everyone was fantastic, professional and very patient with my little girl!
—Charlene H
Via
Excellent service and care. Friendly staff. I highly recommend.
—Michael Banik
Via
Great staff!! Great work. I highly recommend Watkins Family Dentistry to everyone I know.
—Kimberly Stewart
Via
Love Watkins Family dentists! Everyone makes me feel very comfortable. I love their modern technology and the office is extremely clean!!! I drive from Warsaw to see these people!!!
—Shelley Holderman
Via
My 2 year old loves going to the dentist . Thanks to all the amazing ladies at Dr. Watkins office! They take the time to explain everything to my daughter in a way she’ll understand ! Best dental experience ever !
—Lupita Leal
Via
Great place! I had to have quite a bit of dental work done and I couldn't be happier with the end result. I love smiling now!
—Shelly Wilfong
Via
Dr. Watkins has been our dentist since he first arrived in Elkhart and have been very pleased with the work he has done. He and his staff are very congenial and willing to help and/or answer any questions we have.
—Linda Kenaga Steinbaugh
Via
Dr. Watkins and his staff are some special people! They go over and beyond to make sure myself and family are comfortable no matter what we're getting done, from cleanings to crowns they're the best around! Love them all!
—Gretchen Weldy Adams
Via
I absolutely love dr walkins and his staff. His assistants are amazing with my kids. They love going to the denist now.
—Alisha Metzger
Via
Hands down the best!! My whole family goes here and we are all pleased. Dr. Watkins and his staff are awesome and they make you feel at home.
—Pamela F Hernandez
Via
Dr Watkins is amazing, the entire staff always make me comfortable. Mostly though, his ability to correct dental issues speaks for itself... as does the state of the art facility.
—Jeffrey Gotshall
Via
Angie is one of the best there and she always does a great job everytime I come in
—Jarvis Merlin Miller
Via
I love this dentist office. They really care! I have been a patient there for many years and won't go anywhere else ever.
—Caroline Ramirez
Via
Your office is the most elegant, upscale, well-equipped dental office that I have ever been in. It is truly beautiful, reminiscent and having an ambience of an elegant ski lodge with blended modern décor and a view second to none in this area. Your staff is gentle, knowledgeable, helpful, and friendly. It was such a pleasure to be there yesterday afternoon.
—DeeAnn Liegel
Via
I am a new patient and felt very welcome at my first visit. I had a filling replaced and a cleaning. My hygienist went above and beyond to make sure that I was comfortable during the cleaning and Dr Watkins took great measures to ensure my comfort while replacing the filling. Glad I went to Watkins.
—Patsy Little
Via
Love Dr.Watkins and all their staff. they are awesome with my girls. they make you feel right at home thank you
—Heidi Davis
Via
I am terrified of dentist but today I had a great experience with them.... Thank you so much
—Roberta Wilfong
Via
The staff is extremely friendly! Dr Watkins also explains everything throughly and makes you feel at ease. Great experience!
—Britt Schoetzow
Via
Very good facilities, great personnel, and a open & direct professional staff. I was deeply troubled with my issues and I was calmed & taken care of quickly & efficiently. I am very glad I used their services.
—Tim Dripps
Via
I always get great personalized care from every staff member. I had all 4 of my wisdom teeth removed by them earlier this year and they went above and beyond to make sure everything went smooth and I was comfortable! ❤️ Them!!!
—Danielle Rae
Via
A family oriented and caring dental office! Dr. Watkins is passionate about dental health and making you comfortable.
—Chantal Casto
Via
My Family Loves Dr Watkins. My girls especially LOVE Angie, she makes the dentist experience so much fun for kids!
—Nichole Loomis-Houser
Via
Very professional and very nice people who care.
—Sarah Andrews Kincaid
Via
I have never felt more comfortable at a Dental office. Dr Watkins is excellent and the staff are friendly, warm and compassionate,
—Judy Hershberger Leigh
Via
I love Watkins Family Dentistry!!! They are hands down the greatest. Very gental and personable! They always make me feel at home and they are amazing with my kids! There are few people in the profession of caring for others that do it because they love their job...even though it usually starts out that way eventually it just becomes a job.....But not for Bruce:) You can genuinely tell that he cares about the people that walk through his door. It's a good feeling to be cared for by someone who still acts like a compassionate human being and not like a robot pushing parts out on an assembly line. So this is to you Dr. Watkins..... Thank you for being a "Rock Star" at what you do and may time never change the heart you have for your patients or the people that help you get where you are today! So from my family to yours, THANK YOU!!!!
—Alicia Rae
Via
I have had a lot of dental work done at Dr Watkins office. I've always been very happy with my results. Dr Watkins and his staff are great to work with. I know that he will always do the highest quality work possible. I would gladly recommend Dr Watkins to my friends and family.
—Todd Benn
Via
Staff at Watkins Family's Dentistry are always so welcoming and kind. I have never had a bad experience. Dr. Watkins is a kind-hearted, gentle doctor who has his patients best interest in mind. He works hard to serve our community with great dental care!
—Lauren Ganger
Via
The best dentist in Elkhart! Maybe all of Indiana :)
—John Webber
Via
Watkins Family Dentistry makes any dental experience a friendly, easy one. Even if major work is needed, they're so good at making the visit comfortable. Wouldn't go anywhere else!
—Gretchen Adams
Via
I love getting my teeth cleaned here! The staff is amazing and my hygienist, Angela, is the best! They provide so much more than just teeth cleanings so I think everyone should check them out!!
—Tori colin
Via
Angie goes out of her way making sure my teeth are properly cleaned and Dr Watkins maintains a very professional staff who are all very friendly and good at what they do. Very state of the art equipment. Overall a great experience!
—Paul Tustin
Via
My family and I have been with Dr. Watkins for a few years now. They have always been amazing to work with. All the staff are very caring and listen to my needs. I refer everyone I know who is looking for a new dentist!!
—Janyce Cannon
Via
I am afraid to go to the dentist. Going to Watkins Family Dentistry is changing that. They have a really good thing going there, between the beautiful office and the fantastic staff they cant go wrong. …More
—Erick Holmes
Via
Dr. Watkins and his staff are always knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. I appreciate their patience with me as they work.
—Kara Sears
Via
Office personal are extremely friendly and learn everyone by name. Doctor makes you totally at ease. Just wish everything was covered by insurance. Always seem to be paying extra.
—Leslie Vance
Via
As a mother of 4 I worry that some doctors don't have enough patience with younger kids. Not the case, my 8 year old had a filling done today and he wasn't worried about his appointment at all. Dr Watkins was gentle and now he actually enjoys taking care of his teeth. And even though he had a filling done he came out of there with a big smile. I don't have words to describe how thankful I am with the care that Dr Watkins and his staff provided. I absolutely recommend his practice. If you are looking for a practice that has the latest technology and good old service Dr Watkins is what your looking for.
—Crystal Magallanes
Via
Professional, friendly, smiling care making sure that my teeth are taking care of me.
—J. Bruce Giggy
Via
Friendly group of people and I always have a great experience
—Fred McMullin
Via
It was a long day but Doc took the time to make my smile beautiful! His work is clean, meticulous and beautiful! All of the Staff was so friendly and accommodating, they made sure I was comfortable and had everything I needed. Every time the anesthetic was about to wear off they made sure to give me more and keep my numb and make sure the procedures were pain free and comfortable. Thank you Dr. Watkins and Staff!
—Becky Burke
Via
If you're looking for a Dentist with a professional, knowledgable, friendly staff who uses the latest dental technology, This is the place. They truly care about the patient's comfort, understanding of the recommended procedures and costs involved. It was obvious that Dr. Watkins invests a lot in state of the art equipment and training for the staff. I finished Phase 1 of the work I needed done and had absolutely no pain or sensitivity afterwards. Did I mention they offer different types of sedation dentistry for those that are skittish at having dental work done like myself?
—Bradd Neidhamer
Via
My experience at Dr. Watkins office, surprisingly, hasn't been a dental one (although, I have heard through MANY friends that he is "the go to guy" for dentistry!) I saw Dr. Watkins two weeks ago for Botox...yes, Botox! I was skeptical, a dentist using Botox?? I knew Dr. Watkins was a good dentist so I thought, why not?? I usually get it between my eyes (the 11's they call it) because I constantly furrow my brows. I get headaches from it and Botox actually helps with it!! During the visit, he listened to my needs and asked questions...something I hadn't experienced with some of the top med spas on the area. One week later, I couldn't believe my eyes (literally)!! My furrow lines were barely noticeable as well as my forehead lines!! Plus, it looked like I had an eyebrow lift without really having one!! Hands down, I will never go anywhere else for Botox!!
—Jamie G.
Via 
The building design and the location is beautiful, in downtown Elkhart on the river. I got my very first root canal and crown over the last few weeks. Although I felt a lot of anxiety throughout the process, the doctor and staff were always friendly and created a calming presence. I was informed throughout the process what was happening, the reasons and costs.
—Connie C.
Via
I wish there were more stars to give! These folks deserve it! I have had a lifetime of extreme fear of a dentist office but had broken a tooth and had to have it taken care of! From the moment they answered the phone everything went up hill! They didn't make me feel bad about being fearful and Dr. Watkins is SO nice and very gentle! I still would rather have ANYTHING done but dental work, but I can honestly say my fear and anxiety are much much less now! (But ONLY if Dr. Watkins is in charge!) I would ABSOLUTELY recommend going to these great people!
—Jennifer M.
Via
Love this place and the people that work there!
—Stacy Draper
Via
The Staff & Technicians are very helpful & friendly. Dr Watkins detailed my issues so I could understand them. I highly recommend Watkins.
—Victoria Therese Brosseau-Hayes
Via
I stumbled across Dr. Watkins and his team about 3 years ago. A friend of my family made a referral and I got the opportunity to sub for them. That day I requested to be scheduled for a check up with Angela. She is so upbeat fun and helpful. I was so pleased, I scheduled my husband. While getting a cleaning, a bridge fell off that was only 8 months old. Dr. Watkins fixed a disaster and gave my husband his chewing back. They have always been very professional and friendly. I get extremely nervous when I have work done! Today I had 2 fillings done. Dr gives a great anesthetic!!! He was also conscious of how tough it is to open wide enough to get to my back tooth. They make me appreciate quality dentistry and make me feel like one of their dental family. Thanks to the team for giving back my smile!
—Lori Knight
Via
I never thought I would say “like” and “Dentist” in the same sentence. I really like Dr. Watkins. He is soft-spoken, calm, personable. More importantly, his skill is amazing because he takes time to stay on top of new developments. He takes continuing education as often as he can, far exceeding what is required for his license. He owns the equipment he needs for state of the art Dentistry. That makes a difference for the quality of workmanship he delivers. He does his best to keep the patient pain free while he works. His staff is friendly and professional. If you need a new Dentist, I certainly recommend Watkins Family Dentistry. You should see how he transformed my smile!
—Judy McNitt Mell
Via
My first appointment with Watkins Family Dentistry was Excellent!
I have put dental work off because of past experiences from other dental offices & my anxiety is high when it comes to this stuff. I felt very comfortable with Dr Watkins, his assistants & staff. He answered all of my questions I had! When I didn't fully understand them he took the time to repeat it to make sure I fully understood what was going to be happening. He knew I had bad anxiety & warned me everytime he was coming out with the tools! You can truly see how they care for there patients! My first experience was great! I will be switching My family to Watkins! His assistant was Very Great!
—Dominique Chupp
Via
Dr. Watkins and staff are very professional and friendly. They are well skilled and compassionate. I can’t believe I had a root canal and the worst part of it was the anticipation. They have the latest technology and equipment that makes the whole process smooth. They explain things to you In an easy to understand way and invite you to ask questions as needed. I am really glad that I found Dr. Watkins for my dental needs.
—Karen Rieth
Via
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