When Jaye Gilich Brice began working in the front office of her husband’s dental practice, she did her job much differently.
She entered appointments manually into a book and confirmed them with an old-style dial phone. She wrote welcome letters and other communications on a typewriter. At that time, patients had very little insurance available.
Four decades seem to have flown by, and while Jaye has witnessed countless changes, she says at least one thing has stayed constant at Brice and Associates – Pediatric Dental Specialists.
“We take strides to ensure your child has a great, comfortable visit with us,” she says.
This year, Brice and Associates celebrates 40 years of serving the Coast. For founder Dr. C.A. “Buddy” Brice, who goes by “Dr. Buddy” in the office, treating children has been a reward in itself.
“There is never a dull moment; kids are the best!” he says. “I think they have kept me young. It also is most rewarding and gratifying to have so many former patients bringing in their children for me to treat.”
Dr. Buddy was the first pediatric dentist in Biloxi, with only one other in Gulfport at the time and no others from Mobile to Slidell. He also was the first and youngest in the state to be board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry — on which he’s now a life member diplomate.
After completing his residency program in pediatric dentistry at Louisiana State University, Brice knew he wanted to return to the Coast and open his own practice. Jaye’s family-owned grocery store building in Biloxi was renovated to become the area’s first open bay-concept office to treat children. In 2012, the practice added a second office in Ocean Springs.
The practice serves children and young adults up to age 23, as well as special needs patients of all ages. Although there’s more competition today than in 1980, Jaye says the reputation her husband has built over much of his lifetime sets him apart.
“I am so proud he’s been able to bring this level of specialty to the Coast and been able to help the number of children he’s helped over the years,” she says. “He’s an excellent clinician, and his way with children is so natural.”
Dr. Buddy may have met thousands of patients throughout his career, Jaye adds, but he has an uncanny knack for recognizing people.
“It amazes me,” she says. “It might take him a second, but give him a little hint, and he’ll pick up on it.”
Dr. Austin McMurphy, Dr. Buddy’s nephew, shares his uncle’s fondness for kids and his commitment to helping them feel safe and comfortable. McMurphy, too, is a board-certified pediatric dentist and joined Brice and Associates in 2015.
Looking ahead to the practice’s future, Jaye says, “We’re excited about it being in a new generation of hands.”
“We hope it will continue in the tradition we’ve put forth,” she adds, “and we believe it will.”
IF YOU GO
Brice and Associates – Pediatric Dental Specialists
BILOXI OFFICE
1070 Judge Sekul Ave, Biloxi
(228) 374-8175
OCEAN SPRINGS OFFICE
1268 Ocean Springs Road, Ocean Springs
(228) 215-3100
www.bipposkids.com
facebook.com/PediatricDentalSpecialists