Thank you, Dr. William L. Neff Jr., DDS

Dr. Neff’s retirement and his letter to patients

Dr. Neff retired after more than 34 years of caring for patients and their families. In his letter to patients, he thanked his patients for their trust and wrote, “It has truly been an honor to be your dentist.”

He also introduced Dr. H. Pourshirazi, writing, “I know you will be in very good hands.”

Where did Dr. Neff go to dental school?

Dr. Neff earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the University of Michigan in 1986. He also earned a bachelor of science from Michigan State University in 1982.

Why did Dr. Neff become a dentist?

Dr. Neff’s father was a dentist, and he always wanted a family dental practice of his own. In a blog interview, he put it simply: “My father was a dentist and I always performed well in Science and Math.”

Outside the office, he is a dedicated family man and a baseball and football fan who enjoys rollerblading, mountain biking and, most of all, alpine skiing.

What was Dr. Neff’s care philosophy?

Dr. Neff summed up his approach in his own words: “I will provide compassionate dental care with an emphasis on educating patients about the importance of preventative care, while helping eliminate dental phobias.”

His care included cosmetic dentistry, children’s dentistry and helping nervous patients feel more at ease. The ADA notes that many people feel nervous about the dentist, and that speaking up is a good first step.

That focus lives on in our comfort options for anxious patients and children’s dentistry.

What did Dr. Neff love most about dentistry?

He loved getting to know families over the years. “I love getting to know families and watching them grow and change,” he said. “I have been seeing some of my patients since they were 3 years old and now I’m seeing their three year olds.”

Dr. Neff’s everyday tips for healthy teeth

Dr. Neff shared a few habits he recommended most, and each one lines up with national health guidance.

Pair these habits with regular cleanings and exams.

• Control sugar. He warned that sugar in any form can harm teeth. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research explains that mouth bacteria turn sugars into acid that wears down enamel.
• Angle your brush. He suggested angling your toothbrush 45 degrees toward the gums, the same angle the ADA recommends.
• Clean between your teeth. He liked floss and small interdental brushes. The ADA advises cleaning between your teeth once a day.
• Use fluoride toothpaste. “As long as the toothpaste has fluoride in it, it works for me!” he said.

Who is caring for Dr. Neff’s patients now?

Dr. H. Pourshirazi is now caring for patients, and Dr. Meerweis Stanisai continues to see patients here. Meet them on our doctors page, or read about dental records when a dentist retires.

Questions & answers

Common questions