Meet Dr. Deran Cathey

I have a tremendous respect for dentistry. It is a unique profession that allows me to be an artist, a surgeon, a counselor, and friend — all in one person. I love helping my patients feel good about themselves. Many times, it goes beyond dental care. I try to encourage my patients to love themselves, because, in doing so, they take better care of their mouth, and their entire body as well.

Talking and spending time with my patients helps me to learn more about them, and about people in general. My patients become my friends. We talk about more than just dentistry; we talk about life, and that certainly brings a smile to my face. I have always believed that a smiling face has the power to brighten any day.

Education and Continuing Education

I earned my Doctorate of Dental Surgery at Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, DC in 1986. Since then, I have participated in various continuing education courses. Courses on the latest techniques in restorative dentistry and endodontics help me to provide the best services possible to save teeth rather than having to remove them.

I also attend courses on prosthetic dentistry to increase my knowledge and skills in replacing teeth whenever that is the treatment of choice. My first priority is to help my patients retain all of their teeth for as long as they possibly can. If replacement is necessary, then I want to get them the best prostheses available today.

Outside the Office

I live in Senatobia, MS. This is my hometown, where my father and mother raised me. I moved to Washington, DC to attend college but I returned to Senatobia after 15 years to open my dental practice.

I have been married to my wife Shirley for 28 wonderful years and counting. We have two children who are now adults. I also have an aquarium that contains various tropical fish. 

When I’m not working, I love to play golf, work in my yard, and travel. I am also the youth minister at my church, Senatobia Church of Christ, so I spend a lot of time on youth outings. In addition, I am president of my local Optimist Club and an executive council member of Saving Our Sons in Mississippi. I am passionate about encouraging young people to succeed and mentoring them in the right direction.